[14MR 305.2]          "My selfish sorrow nearly killed me, and crippled my husband in his labors. But the Lord had mercy upon us, and He let me see the selfishness of my heart. Now I am as one who has awakened out of a deep sleep. I am not in the world to amuse myself, to seek to be amused or petted, or to work for my own selfish interests. I am here to do my duty. I try to show that I respect and honor my husband by being interested in his work in the various lines of the cause of God. I no longer make myself miserable over things I cannot help, but try to adapt myself to circumstances. If the Lord sees fit to give me another child, I shall hold it, not as a plaything but as a sacred, entrusted charge; not as an idol, but ［as］ a soul that I am to train for the courts above.  {14MR 305.2}
[14MR 305.3]          "I am trying to help my husband bear his burdens. I do most of his copying. The work was not pleasant to me at first, but I have overcome my dislike for it. I no longer feel that sentimentalism must be woven through all our experience in the married life. As God's workmen we should be seeking to do Him service, to honor His name, keeping the eye fixed upon Jesus, and encouraging each other to work the works of Christ. My husband says he can rest, and I can encourage him now, because we are both interested in                                         -306-     seeking to save souls who are out of Christ. I had for a time to study hard and pray much to overcome my weakness of character, and become, in some degree, what a woman should be, a true helpmeet. I desire not to lead into sin, as did Eve, but with a firm hold upon Jesus I would lead away from sin, and pride, and love of show, in the quiet paths of meekness and lowliness of heart."  {14MR 305.3}
[14MR 306.1]          Then she said that she had been advised to take an infant to bring up. She asked if I thought it her duty to do this. I advised her to take this question to God. I told her that she should be closely united with her husband in his work. She should keep his respect and love as a true woman whom God was teaching and leading. "You can," I said, "cultivate an aptitude to work for the children. You can reach their hearts and win them to Christ. These children you may bring to the gates of the city of God, with your own little ones, saying, 'Here are we, father, mother, children, and a large number whom Thou hast given us as sheaves for Christ.'"  {14MR 306.1}
[14MR 306.2]          We need carefully to search our hearts and study our motives. Selfishness may prompt the desire to do what appears to be an unselfish and praise-worthy act. The reason that many urge for desiring to adopt a child, the longing for something on which to center their affection, reveals the fact that their heart is not centered upon Christ; it is not absorbed in His work.  {14MR 306.2}
[14MR 306.3]          When I have heard a wife mourning that her husband did not show her all the affection she thought he should, I have sent a silent petition to God that this soul might be refreshed with the Word. From the light God had given me. I knew that she needed to drink deep of the cool waters of Lebanon                                         -307-     instead of the turbid streams of the valley. When women will feed upon the words of Christ, when their thirsty souls shall drink of the water of life, they will have far less sentimentalism, and far greater spirituality. They will purify their souls by obeying the truth.  {14MR 306.3}
[14MR 307.1]          If a woman's life is connected with one whom God has chosen to be a laborer together with Him, let her consider that she can make her husband's heart tired and his soul sad by her unconsecrated course of action. If self clamors for attention, and unless great devotion is shown to her, she becomes unhappy; she may greatly hinder him in his work. She needs to learn of Christ, who lived not to please Himself. He is our example in all things.  {14MR 307.1}
[14MR 307.2]          If the wife is a co-laborer with Christ in the work of saving souls, she will keep abreast of her husband in cultivating mind and heart. She will endeavor to stand equal with him in knowledge of the Word of God, and in obedience to all its requirements. She will keep her own soul refreshed by eating the Word and drinking the waters from the wellsprings of life. Then the words she speaks will not be prompted by envy or jealousy; they will proceed from a sanctified heart that has been daily learning lessons at the feet of Jesus. Thus instead of making herself a helpless burden, to be the object of his solicitude, and to demand a large share of his attention, the wife may strengthen her husband to do the highest service for God.  {14MR 307.2}
[14MR 307.3]          The light which the Lord has given me in regard to minister's wives is, If their life is kept in close consecration to God, as is the duty of all who are laborers together with Him, they will find so many souls to minister unto that they will have no opportunity to be lonesome or to cultivate                                         -308-     selfishness in any line. Jesus says, "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." Those who heed this invitation will have no thought of repining, no thought of loneliness. Their work is to do the will of Christ. As they do this, they will have sweet peace, and rest of soul.  {14MR 307.3}
[14MR 308.1]          The question of adopting a child, especially an infant, involves most serious responsibilities. It should not be lightly regarded. One who has herself taken a baby to bring up, may feel that unless other ministers' wives shall follow her example, they are remiss in their duty. But this is an error. Our duty is not decided by what others may plan for us. The question for each to settle is, In doing this, shall I be merely gratifying my own wishes, or is it a duty the Lord has appointed for me? Is this His way, or a way of my own choosing? All are to be workers for God. Not one is excused. Your talents are not your own, to employ as you shall fancy. Inquire, What would the Lord have me do with His entrusted talents? Shall I labor for the saving of many souls? Shall I follow the directions of Isaiah 58:6-11?  {14MR 308.1}
[14MR 308.2]          There are deep, earnest lessons for us to learn, else self will be our center, the controlling power of our lives. The duty of the present is vigilant working, and earnest, watchful waiting in view of the solemn event of our Lord's second appearing. Working, watching, praying--these constitute the ideal of Christian duty and responsibility, making the perfect man in Christ Jesus. Our life is not to be all waiting, not all bustle and activity and excitement, to the neglect of personal piety. The door of the                                         -309-     heart must be always open to Jesus, that we may always hear His voice of invitation, "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock. If any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me." We are to be "not slothful in business ［but］ fervent in spirit, serving the Lord."  {14MR 308.2}
[14MR 309.1]          There is always a danger of taking upon ourselves a work that the Lord has not placed in our hands, and neglecting that which He has given us to do and which would better honor His name. That which to human eyes may appear praiseworthy may not be the very thing God has chosen for us to do. Then let us individually consider the many branches of the work. There are various kinds of missionary work to do. Consider prayerfully what work would best tell for the advancement of the cause of God. If there is a humble, unselfish heart and contrite spirit in seeking to know the Lord's will, He will lead each of us in the path where He would have us walk.  {14MR 309.1}
[14MR 309.2]          Let no one feel condemned because she does not take a child to care for. The Lord may have some greater work for you to do in teaching those who know not God how to do His will. "Thus saith the Lord, . . . Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the Lord, speak, saying, The Lord hath utterly separated me from His people; neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree. For thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs that keep My Sabbaths, and choose the things that please Me, and take hold of My covenant; even unto them will I give in Mine house and within My walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off" ［Isaiah 56:1-5］.                                         -310-  {14MR 309.2}
[14MR 310.1]          I have written these things, that Satan may not allure any of my brother ministers or their companions into positions where they will be prevented from doing the very work that the Lord has assigned to them. We must watch; we must pray; and when God says, Whom shall I send to do this errand for Me? we should be ready to respond, "Here am I; send me." Serious work is to be done. It has been waiting for unselfish, consecrated workers.  {14MR 310.1}
[14MR 310.2]          Brethren and sisters, open your hearts to the Holy Spirit of God, and devote your God given capabilities to working as for your lives to pull souls out of the fire. Keep in the channel of light, for there is to be more direct communication from heaven to earth. We have not a moment to lose. There is a heaven to win and a hell to shun.  {14MR 310.2}
[14MR 310.3]          I call upon my brethren to come to the help of the Lord against the mighty. I call upon my sisters to stand by their side and help them in the work. "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."--Manuscript 35, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985, Entire Ms.  {14MR 310.3}
[14MR 311.1]       MR No. 1124 - Proclaim God's Truth; Avoid Fanciful Theories         (Written August 1, 1904, from Takoma Park, Washington, D. C., to "Brethren Paulson, Sadler, Jones, and Waggoner.")            Proclaim this message, for it is your life. God will give you the power of His grace. He will give you the treasures of truth, and the Holy Spirit will make them shine in their original luster. Give to the world the message the Lord has given you. Remove not a pin or a pillar from the foundation of our faith. Preach the truth as it has been given by the Lord. This truth is powerful in the conviction of sinners.  {14MR 311.1}
[14MR 311.2]          There is a higher order of enjoyment and power than man can create, derived from a source above humanity. But in order to fulfill Christ's purpose for you, you must study the truths He has given you. Eat and drink the Word. Put away all fanciful theories. Let the truth stand out in its original power. God's great purposes are to be worked out, after the pattern of things in the heavens. Let God give you your message. Weigh every proposition coming from human beings, for fanciful theories will be brought in.--Letter 279, 1904, pp. 8, 9.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985  {14MR 311.2}
[14MR 312.1]       MR No. 1125 - Edson White and Health Reform         (Written May 25, 1869, from Battle Creek, Michigan, to "Dear son Edson.")            My writing will not be very good, for one eye is bandaged because of acute inflammation. But as Brother McDearman is going, I can send by him. I will say a few words.  {14MR 312.1}
[14MR 312.2]          We feel very anxious for you. We are desirous that you should form a good, Christian character, and be approved of God. We hope that new scenes will not interest and engross your mind so that you will neglect the great salvation dearly purchased for you by the Son of God. We hope you will show true principle ［even though you are］ now away from us. We have in diet been strict to follow the light the Lord has given us. You are acquainted with that light, and we trust you will have the fear of the Lord continually before you and will respect the light He has given and be no less strict than we have been.  {14MR 312.2}
[14MR 312.3]          I have feared for you as I have marked how little control you have had over your appetite and your desires. I have mourned in secret over it, and have prayed the Lord to enlighten your mind and quicken your conscience that it might be sensitive and tender, susceptible to the influence of the Spirit.  {14MR 312.3}
[14MR 312.4]          We have advised you not to eat butter or meat. We have not had it on our table. I should hope you would feel that we had advised you for your good and not to deprive you of these things because of any notions of your own.                                          -313-  {14MR 312.4}
[14MR 313.1]          You have lessons of self-control to learn ［that］ you have not yet experienced. You should have rules to regulate yourself, your diet, your labor, your hours. All this you need to do now to discipline yourself. Have fixed principles. Represent the health reform. All know that we do not put butter on our table. If they see you, our son, eat the things we have condemned, you weaken our influence and lower yourself in their estimation. They see at once that appetite is stronger with you than principle, that notwithstanding all our labor to bring the people of God up to denial of appetite, we have no influence with our own children. When they can get meat or butter, they will eat it, or Edson will. . . .  {14MR 313.1}
[14MR 313.2]          It is time you set to work to redeem the past and to now turn about squarely. You now are forming new associations in a new church. God will prove you now to see what character you will develop in the new relations in which you stand. Stand for the right. Maintain it manfully. You will be watched to see if you carry out our teachings to others. Will you dishonor us or honor us by regarding the instructions we have borne from the mouth of the Lord to His people and to you? Oh, my son, get up from the low, selfish, indolent, slothful position you have been occupying where the curse of Meroz could come upon you, and work from a higher standpoint than self-gratification and merely to please others and be passable in the eyes of poor, erring mortals. Oh, my son, my dear son, my love for you is strong, and my love for you will not die but increase as dangers thicken.  {14MR 313.2}
[14MR 313.3]          Don't let yourself down to talk cheap talk and be unguarded. Watch, watch, watch, and pray lest ye enter into temptation. Oh, be where you can subdue your desires and will, and be controlled by the will of God, submissive                                          -314-     to His Spirit. Do not act as though the services of Christ were irksome, but leave your will submerged in the will of God. Eat and drink to His glory. Oh, Edson, I want to hear you yet speaking the truth to others, but it must be in you before you can teach and practice it.  {14MR 313.3}
[14MR 314.1]          It is so dark I cannot see to write. Good-by. May the Lord bless you, my son. Your Mother who loves you, Ellen White.--Letter 5, 1869, pp. 1-4.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985  {14MR 314.1}
[14MR 315.1]       MR No. 1126 - Thoughts While Traveling on a Train     (Written May 24, 1876, near Laramie Plains, Wyoming, to "Dear Children.")            We rested well last night. Our quarters are not nearly as good as in the stateroom when we left Oakland. But we are making the best of the situation and therefore are quite comfortable. Our comfortable condition is made by the tone of our feelings within. None can but be happy if they take the happy with them. If we are connected with heaven, the content and peace and happiness of heaven will be ours. Our slights, our neglects, our sorrows and griefs, will not, cannot, depress the heart that is borrowing its strength and serenity from heaven.  {14MR 315.1}
[14MR 315.2]          I have enjoyed my breakfast this morning. Food good. I have eaten no cake, but little cheese, but little _____. ［THIS WORD IS NOT CLEARLY LEGIBLE IN THE ORIGINAL HANDWRITTEN MANUSCRIPT.］ Love the brown bread; brown turnovers turned out their inward treasury in the oven, leaving nothing but crust for us. But we have plenty that is good beside this.  {14MR 315.2}
[14MR 315.3]         I feel that I am right. Praise the Lord for the evidence we have of His care and protection on this journey. Mary does all the caretaking, and generals matters through excellently. She is very thoughtful of my comfort, kind and attentive.  {14MR 315.3}
[14MR 315.4]          Yesterday while waiting for a train, we got off and were looking for a stone or something as a memento. A lady said she had picked up some specimens which she would give me. She gave me freely specimens of moss agate,                                           -316-     petrified wood, and bits of petrified sage. She said she had come to visit her sister who lived at the station, and she would stay a week and could get all she wished. I thought it was certainly very kind and liberal of her to thus accommodate a stranger.  {14MR 315.4}
[14MR 316.1]          I mean to gather what choice things I can on this journey. I think we are getting along fine, and I feel that the Lord is my helper, which is the best of all.  {14MR 316.1}
[14MR 316.2]          Will you see that the tub sitting at ［the］ corner of ［the］ house is emptied and put in ［the］ cellar? See that lath and bits of wood are picked up all about the new house. If it is rented, remove the wood from ［the］ cellar and place the wood in a safe place, for it is precious. Brother Baker, or someone ［else］ can do this. There is lots of wood. It ought to take care of both the office and first new house built behind the engine house.  {14MR 316.2}
[14MR 316.3]          I wish the children had a sunny playhouse right by the office in a good place where they could take their messes outdoors and be happy. I merely suggest this. There was a little house with some machinery in it ［that］ I designed to have fixed up for them, but did not get at it. As we do not allow them to associate with other children, we must substitute things to take the place of this.  {14MR 316.3}
[14MR 316.4]          I purchased two pairs of white shoes of the man right under the hall where we have meetings. The largest pair I paid $1.50 for; the other I paid $1.25. One has an ink spot on it--the smaller pair. They are so very large I would like to have them exchanged for something some of you in the family want in the shape of shoes.                                           -317-  {14MR 316.4}
[14MR 317.1]          The children each have two pairs apiece of light shoes just as good as these which I purchased of the man under the hall. If they were right size I would keep them, but they are not, and I will take them back. He will give something else in place of them. Take Addie's everyday shoes, which are ripping, and take them to this man to get mended. I paid $1.50 apiece for the shoes. This ［man］ has done poor service. He said he would mend them free of charge.  {14MR 317.1}
[14MR 317.2]          Did Sister Rice find the silk she wanted? Love to all the family. I hope Sister Rice will be ［as］ free and happy as she can under the circumstances.--Letter 28a, 1876.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985, Entire Letter  {14MR 317.2}
[14MR 318.1]       MR No. 1127 - Helping the Needy; Reporting on Christmas Activities; Importance of a Living Connection With God         (Written December 26, 1878, from Denison, Texas, to "Dear Family at Battle Creek--Willie, Mary, Aunt Mary, Edith, Addie and May, and Brother and Sister Sawyer.")            I suppose you will be interested to know how we spent Christmas. The day before Christmas, we went to town, and it was tediously cold. I suffered with cold. I never remember of its being much colder in Michigan. But Brother Moore's people were living in a tent and were very uncomfortable. We were determined he should not live thus, and we commenced to bring about a change. We moved them into Sister Bahler's old house, which was very open but better than a tent, for several nights. We had divided our bedding with them to keep them from suffering.  {14MR 318.1}
[14MR 318.2]         We then went to the city and purchased for them flour, white and graham; sugar, a bone of meat, butter out of the question. We laid out $10 for clothing to make them comfortable, and necessary furniture to get along. I will tell you everything they had for breakfast--a few corn gems and a little beef suet fat. Not a chair; a straw bed and a comfortable laid over it. The children had an old rug and blanket laid under them. Sister Moore had no shoes, no comfortable clothing. He had no pants fit to be seen.  {14MR 318.2}
[14MR 318.3]         Christmas morning we all took breakfast together--James Cornell; Florence and Clara, their two girls; Brother and Sister Moore and their three children; Sister Bahler and Etta, a girl living with them; and Sister Daniells, our cook, Father, and myself. We had a quarter of venison cooked,                                           -319-     and stuffing. It was as tender as a chicken. We all enjoyed it very much. There is plenty of venison in market.  {14MR 318.3}
[14MR 319.1]          I have not seen in years so much poverty as I have seen since I have come to Texas. Brother Moore has had poor health, and he has nothing-- not a cent to get provisions with. We must help that family or they must suffer for the very necessities of life. I have put those flannel sheets ［that］ you sent me, on his bed. He is now unable to work because of pleurisy. I gave each of the Cornell girls a dress, which they needed very much. I cannot see want and misery and enjoy the comforts of life.  {14MR 319.1}
[14MR 319.2]          James Cornell earns but little now. He has much suffering with rheumatism. Roxanna has been almost dead with asthma, but she is recovering now from a long siege of distressing illness.  {14MR 319.2}
[14MR 319.3]          You cannot tell how I have worked early and late to get off the testimonies, and there is just as much to come yet, unwritten. Very important matter I am writing in regard to the sanitarium and college and office. I have great freedom in writing.  {14MR 319.3}
[14MR 319.4]          Father is very kind, cheerful, and happy. His labor of preparing matter has been very taxing to him, but he has kept exercising, chopping wood and bringing it in, walking to ［the］ post office and back, one mile and a half in going and coming. He has physical exercise, aplenty of it; cares mostly for his own team. You see what a change has taken place with him.  {14MR 319.4}
[14MR 319.5]          I am astonished at myself that I can do so much. I do not give credit to the climate, for I fail to see the especial advantages Texas has over Michigan except in so much fearful sickness, which is a disadvantage.                                           -320-  {14MR 319.5}
[14MR 320.1]          We have a nice, plastered house; a fire all day, and yet for several nights our wash bowl has been frozen over, and the mug containing my teeth was frozen in so solid ［they］ had to be melted out. Last night the ground was covered with snow, but I do not dislike this cool, bracing air at all.  {14MR 320.1}
[14MR 320.2]          We have been to ［the］ depot three days in succession for Brother Huey ［?］ and our copyist. I would like to know how long you think to keep me without my copyist. I shall write some loud letters soon if you do not send us help. You can have no better copy than you have had unless you provide me help.  {14MR 320.2}
[14MR 320.3]          We are getting along very well here; now have a good wagon and horses, not bought but using them. We enjoy every pleasant day when not driven by writing, in riding out. The roads are sandy and excellent.  {14MR 320.3}
[14MR 320.4]          Father has just finished the first two chapters upon the Spirit of Prophecy, No. I, for Signs. We feel deeply the necessity of our people being aroused to sense their duty. We must keep so near to God as to maintain our simplicity and our humility. We must guard ourselves on the right hand and on the left, that Satan shall not have any advantage. We can have the Spirit and sanctifying power of the truth in our hearts if we will watch and pray and rely fully on the merits of the blood of the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sins of the world.  {14MR 320.4}
[14MR 320.5]          We may realize the special blessing of God if we will only believe and pray with living faith. We are too cold, too faithless. We expect too little. Let us draw ［near］ to God with full assurance of faith, and not be discouraged. We, every one, have an individual work before us, a personal effort to make for our own salvation and the salvation of our fellow men.                                            -321-     We can do nothing in the great plan of salvation without a living connection with God. We should not rest without the evidence that our ways please God. We have no time to lose. We must be in earnest in this matter; the work of overcoming is not child's play but a reality.  {14MR 320.5}
[14MR 321.1]          We think of you all with the tenderest feelings. We received an excellent letter from Brother Smouse and will write him ere long. I hope he will write often. I like the spirit of his letter.  {14MR 321.1}
[14MR 321.2]         We are retired here; no visitors, nothing to call our attention from our work. We are all working all the time, that is, I am. Father cannot confine himself closely.  {14MR 321.2}
[14MR 321.3]          Tell my good sisters in Battle Creek, I would be pleased to have them write often.  {14MR 321.3}
[14MR 321.4]          Much love to you all. Be of good cheer, and live at the feet of Jesus.  {14MR 321.4}
[14MR 321.5]          Daughter Mary, you write that you wrote my sister to send part of that dress goods to Lizzie Tenney. That is my husband's sister, not my twin sister whose name is Lizzie Bangs. You should have found out Mary Foss' address and then written to her for an answer, and not let the matter rest. I fear they have not gotten the box and may never get it. Do write again. --Letter 63, 1878.     Ellen G. White Washington, D.C. April 11, 1985, Entire Letter  {14MR 321.5}
[14MR 322.1]       MR No. 1128 - W. C. White and Healthful Living         (Written February 15, 1874, from Santa Rosa, California, to "My dear Clarence ［Willie］.")            I will write you a few lines this evening by lamplight. I have been some troubled in regard to your health. How is it, my son? Do you have physical exercise? This is very important that some burden should come on your physical strength as well as on your mental. We do not want you to come out a dyspeptic.  {14MR 322.1}
[14MR 322.2]          You cannot live too plainly when you are studying so constantly. Your father and I have dropped milk, cream, butter, sugar, and meat entirely since we came to California. We are far clearer in mind and far better in body. We live very plainly. We cannot write unless we do live simply. Your father bought meat once for May while she was sick, but not a penny have we expended on meat since. We have the most excellent fruit of all kinds. Do you want we should send you some figs? How is your clothing? Let us know just how you are feeling; and is your clothing well taken care of? Are you happy?  {14MR 322.2}
[14MR 322.3]          We want you to write as often as you can, for we are so anxious to hear from you. Father thinks sometimes that he ought not to have come to California but remained in Battle Creek. Do you think so? You know what fears we have had in regard to his stay in Battle Creek. If all were well with Father, I would rather be in Battle Creek than in any other place, but                                          -323-     the multiplicity of cares and burdens that devolve upon him there I think would soon use him up.  {14MR 322.3}
[14MR 323.1]          Father has been rather down for a few days. Dyspepsia has quite a firm hold on him. But as soon as we can get out and ride and not be so confined, I think he will improve.  {14MR 323.1}
[14MR 323.2]          Sister Hall is well. Also, the children are good and doing well. They are easily managed, and the happiest and heartiest children of any that I am acquainted with.  {14MR 323.2}
[14MR 323.3]          I am feeling quite well. My eyes are nearly well. They do not show any inflammation, but there is a pain in them and inability to keep them open. There seems to be a stiffness in the lid.  {14MR 323.3}
[14MR 323.4]          I hope you will be of good courage in the Lord. Be true to duty. Be true to God. Let your light shine. Be cheerful in God, for He has done all things well for you.  {14MR 323.4}
[14MR 323.5]          May the peace of God abide in your heart, and be of good cheer. Don't be discouraged at anything. Let the praise of God be upon your lips constantly.--Letter 12, 1874.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. April 11, 1985, Entire Letter  {14MR 323.5}
[14MR 324.1]       MR No. 1129 - Ellen White's Attitude Toward the Use of Flesh Foods         (Written June 6, 1895, from Norfolk Villa, Prospect Street, Granville, N.S.W., to A. O. Tait.)            In answer to your questions I will respond briefly now but more fully soon.  {14MR 324.1}
[14MR 324.2]         I have never felt that it was my duty to say that no one should taste of meat under any circumstances. To say this when the people have been educated to live on flesh to so great an extent, would be carrying matters to extremes. I have never felt that it was my duty to make sweeping assertions. What I have said I have said under a sense of duty, but I have been guarded in my statements, because I did not want to give occasion for anyone to be a conscience for another.  {14MR 324.2}
[14MR 324.3]          Sister Davis has just called my attention to an article printed in the Youth's Instructor of May 31, 1894. The question asked is, Did I design to have this sentence just as it appeared in the Instructor? I am surprised to see it just as it appears--"A meat diet is not the most wholesome of diets, and yet I would take the position that meat should not be discarded by everyone." I cannot explain why this appears just as it does.  {14MR 324.3}
[14MR 324.4]          Since the camp meeting at Brighton I have absolutely banished meat from my table. It is an understood thing that whether I am at home or abroad, nothing of this kind is to be used in my family, or come upon my table. I                                          -325-     have had such representations before my mind in the night season on this subject that I feel that I have done right in banishing meat from my table. I would desire that the sentence should be modified by changing the not--"yet I would not take the position that meat be wholly discarded by everyone," for instance, by those dying of consumption.  {14MR 324.4}
[14MR 325.1]          I have been passing through an experience in this country that is similar to the experience I had in new fields in America. I have seen families whose circumstances would not permit them to furnish their table with healthful food. Unbelieving neighbors have sent them in portions of meat from animals recently killed. They have made soup of the meat, and supplied their large families of children with meals of bread and soup. It was not my duty, nor did I think it was the duty of anyone else, to lecture them upon the evils of meat eating. I feel sincere pity for families who have newly come to the faith, and who are so pressed with poverty that they know not from whence their next meal is coming.  {14MR 325.1}
[14MR 325.2]          It is not my duty to discourse to them on healthful eating. There is a time to speak, and a time to keep silent. The opportunity furnished by circumstances of this order is an opportunity to speak words that will encourage and bless, rather than condemn and reprove. Those who have lived upon a meat diet all their life do not see the evil of continuing the practice, and they must be treated tenderly.  {14MR 325.2}
[14MR 325.3]          But in the very month in which this article was published, one of my family asked me whether we should not kill some of the fowls of which we had a large number, and prepare them for our table. I said decidedly, "No." I have signed the pledge to my heavenly Father, and have discarded meat as an                                          -326-     article of diet. I will not eat flesh myself, nor set it before any of my household. I gave orders that the fowls should be sold, and that the money which they brought in should be expended in buying fruit for the table.  {14MR 325.3}
[14MR 326.1]          Since coming to this country, I have made inquiries concerning the condition of animals that are killed for the market, and I have learned that whole herds were slaughtered when not more than one in twenty were without disease. Pulmonary diseases, cancers, and tumors, are startlingly common among animals. It is true that the inspectors rejected many of the cattle that were thus diseased, but many were passed on to the market that ought to have been refused. Inspectors and herdsmen, I am told, have entered into confederacy in this matter. Some inspectors say, "This herd or this flock will pass. Leave me this or that sheep, or this or that steer." Thus unwholesome flesh has gone on to the markets for human consumption.  {14MR 326.1}
[14MR 326.2]          In many localities even fish is unwholesome, and ought not to be used. This is especially so where fish come in contact with the sewerage of large cities. We seldom have any fish upon our table. The fish that partake of the filthy sewerage of the drains may pass into waters far distant from the sewerage, and be caught in localities where the water is pure and fresh, but because of the unwholesome drainage in which they have been feeding, they are not safe to eat.  {14MR 326.2}
[14MR 326.3]          We have a large family, and besides have many guests, but neither meat nor butter is placed upon our table. We use the cream from the milk of the cows which we feed ourselves. We purchase butter for cooking purposes from dairies where the cows are in healthful condition and have good pasture.-- Letter 76, 1895, pp. 7-9.     Ellen G. White Estate, Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985  {14MR 326.3}
[14MR 327.1]       MR No. 1130 - The Responsibilities of Helpers in Ellen White's Australian Home    (Written July 9, 1896, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., to "Dear Niece" ［Mrs. Mary Watson, nee Clough］).            I had hoped to write you something definite ere this, but the uncertainty is by no means removed. The situation of the work in America may call us from here at any time; I may have to attend the next General Conference.  {14MR 327.1}
[14MR 327.2]          We are not situated as we were when my husband was living and you were with us. We are now living in Cooranbong, 20 miles from any city. The climate of New South Wales is as good as any I have knowledge of, and you know I have traveled nearly around the inhabited world. We came here to get the benefit of this climate. Our school interest demanded that we have land which could be cultivated, and 1500 acres were purchased for that purpose. I have bought about 60 acres of this land and have had a plain and comfortable cottage built.  {14MR 327.2}
[14MR 327.3]          When we came to this place about one year ago the first of this month, it was a forest of trees and underbrush, such as seen in Colorado. We had a large number of workmen, and they pitched five tents and went to work. I could not be in two places at the same time, so I came up here with my family.  {14MR 327.3}
[14MR 327.4]          Before coming here I occupied a house in Granville, a suburb of Sydney, near Parramatta. This house was a large and beautiful mansion, situated in                                          -328-     a healthy locality. It was advertised to let ［A BRITISH TERM MEANING, "FOR RENT."］ for two pounds per week, but hard times came and we were able to get it for $5.76 per week. I think we lived in this house about two years.  {14MR 327.4}
[14MR 328.1]         My health has improved very much lately. During the last two years I have done more writing than I have ever done before in the same period of time. I am now writing largely.  {14MR 328.1}
[14MR 328.2]          At present, my dear niece, we have 13 in the family. Let me name them. Sara McEnterfer is my nurse, and takes charge as matron of my home. She was with me for nine years before I left America, and traveled with me wherever I went. But she was taken down with malarial fever, and May Walling and Emily Campbell came with me to this country. About a year ago I was taken very sick, and it was thought that I might die or else have a long siege of sickness, and Sara was cabled to come to me.  {14MR 328.2}
[14MR 328.3]          Sarah Belden is with me and does the cooking for the family. Byron Belden, her husband, died a few months ago. Marian Davis and Eliza Burnham are my chief workers in the editorial line.  {14MR 328.3}
[14MR 328.4]          Maggie Hare is editing my articles for the papers. She has not been long in this class of work. She is a young woman of good health, and is highly promising, and appreciated by me.  {14MR 328.4}
[14MR 328.5]          Minnie Hawkins, who has served at the typesetting and proofreading in the Echo Office at Melbourne for several years, is now being educated to edit my articles for the press. She is a young girl full of health and vigor. The two last mentioned are typewriters. ［AN EARLY TERM FOR TYPIST.］ Maggie Hare takes dictation in shorthand, so she reports all my discourses and writes them out.                                          -329-  {14MR 328.5}
[14MR 329.1]         May Israel is my bookkeeper. She is a young woman of good health. She also writes shorthand. She has reported sermons at our camp meetings, but has had so much of this work placed upon her that it was feared that she had injured her nervous system. But she has since learned better what she can bear. She is also a typewriter, so that we have three machines in operation.  {14MR 329.1}
[14MR 329.2]          Miss Lucas, a young woman whom I should suppose to be about 26 years old, is my seamstress. Edith Ward, I took out of pity. She was 12 years old when she came to live with me, and is now 14. She is Sarah Belden's maid, and helps her in the kitchen. Edgar, a boy of about 15, does the chores about the place such as cutting wood, attending to the fires, etc. Mr. Connell is my outdoor manager, caring for the horses and farm work. Harry Hawkins, a brother of Minnie, is a member of my family at present. He is a carpenter, and is very handy.  {14MR 329.2}
[14MR 329.3]          I have four horses and three cows. Willie has two cows. Sara has a saddle horse. May Israel and Minnie Hawkins also have horses.  {14MR 329.3}
[14MR 329.4]          Willie has brought his family from America, and has given them a mother. May Lacey, the young lady he married, is a daughter of Mr. Lacey, who married the mother of Harry and Minnie Hawkins. May is a woman whom I love and respect. She is about as tall ［as］, or perhaps a little taller than, our beloved Mary White. Her health is robust, her eyes are blue, her skin is fair, her cheeks are as red as roses. She has an excellent disposition. About three months ago she presented Willie with a pair of twin boys. Thus their family has speedily enlarged.                                          -330-  {14MR 329.4}
[14MR 330.1]          Willie lives in a house which was built for a convent, but the Catholics could not keep it up, and they rent it to W. C. White. It is a very pleasant house, and has two wide verandas, one above and one below, running around three sides of the house. Willie has six in his family, counting the baby boys. His wife's sister and Ella White manage the cooking. Ella has gained 25 pounds since coming to Cooranbong. Mabel has gained proportionately. She was not weighed before leaving America. Nora Lacey, her brother Herbert Lacey and his wife, ［and］ Mr. Tucker, an old gentleman, board with them. With these the family numbers ten.  {14MR 330.1}
[14MR 330.2]          Two years ago I came to the conclusion that there was danger in using the flesh of dead animals, and since then I have not used meat at all. It is never placed on my table. I use fish when I can get it. We can get beautiful fish from the saltwater lake near here. I use neither tea nor coffee. As I labor against these things, I cannot but practice that which I know to be best for health, and my family are all in perfect harmony with me. You see, my dear niece, that I am telling you matters just as they are.  {14MR 330.2}
[14MR 330.3]          The lawsuit with Mr. Walling has cost me $3,000. I could have decided to go into court, but this would have brought the children where they would have been obliged to testify on oath against their father, and would have led to endless trouble. The mother would have been brought into court, and you would probably ［have］ had to act a part. There is no knowing what lies might have been sworn to, or how much disgrace might have been brought upon us all. I have paid out about $2,000 for depositions and attorney fees, and $1,500 for settlement. This has cut away quite a slice. I have been unable                                           -331-     to sell any of my property in America, and the expense of taking myself and family from place to place is not small.  {14MR 330.3}
[14MR 331.1]          The conference furnishes me with two laborers. The rest I pay myself. The hard times have made it very hard for us all. I have two books in the hands of the printers--Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, and a large and revised edition of The Life of Christ. The manuscript for this has just been sent. It will cost me $2,000 for my share of cuts for this book. Hard times have come, and we cannot sell our books as fast as we desire, therefore we shall feel the pressure till times change. At present I am in debt in America several thousand dollars. If the book I now have ready for the press has a successful sale, I hope we shall realize enough to pay our debts. I am paying interest on this money. I want to do more for this field before I leave it, and I may end my life here.  {14MR 331.1}
[14MR 331.2]          I am fearful that your life, since we were united in labor, has not been calculated to prepare you to connect with me. I have a very harmonious family, and I am educating and training workers, giving them every advantage, that they may be helpful to me in my work. I have fears that you would be disappointed in the economy we have to exercise. We shall continually be obliged to exercise this economy, for we must render help in building meetinghouses and school buildings. This economizing would be rather a painful experience for you.  {14MR 331.2}
[14MR 331.3]          My table is furnished with fruit in its season. For several months now we will have oranges, which we can get fresh from the trees. A few days ago Sara, Maggie, and your Aunt Ellen took the horse and carriage, and drove out about six miles, and helped to gather the beautiful yellow fruit. We                                           -332-     purchased 28 dozen oranges. Several of our workers purchased some for themselves, besides what I got for the table. I also bought ten dozen lemons. Oranges and lemons are the only fresh fruit that we can get at this season of the year. By the time these are gone, early peaches will make their appearance. We will get them about Christmas-time.  {14MR 331.3}
[14MR 332.1]         Peas can be planted in this country so as to be yielding nearly all the year round. I have been using tomatoes since New Year's until about two weeks ago. Squashes or pumpkins we have in abundance. Vegetables grow well on this land, but we have not raised many because the land was not prepared for them. Vegetables, fruit, and bread, form our table fare. As we are educating colonials in health principles, we do not, under any circumstances, place meat on the table. Some of our present company are as pupils in a school, and therefore precept and example must be harmonious. Each year we put up not less than six or eight hundred quarts of canned fruit. We have peaches, apricots, nectarines, grapes, plums, and tomatoes canned.  {14MR 332.1}
[14MR 332.2]          I have given you these particulars so that you may know all about our ways and practices, which may differ from your present style of living. We are all in good health with the exception of Sister Eliza Burnham, who occasionally has nervous headaches. Sister Burnham is a superior editor. Marian Davis also is authority on the class of books we send to the world.  {14MR 332.2}
[14MR 332.3]          Now, if after these particulars you should feel like uniting with us should we remain here, we can find enough for you to do. Please tell me what wages you would work for. We could not pay you the same wages we did when my husband was living, but should you harmonize with us I will pay you the same wages that I pay my other workers who are fully qualified to do the                                          -333-     work. The highest I pay is nine dollars, and they pay me three dollars of that for their board, room, and washing. I could not very well send for you, because of the want of money with which to pay your fare. After this pressure is lifted, I expect to have some money. I have drafts on the Echo Office, but at present they have overdrawn at the bank, and I cannot press them.  {14MR 332.3}
[14MR 333.1]          Brother and Sister Rousseau returned to America last Monday; ［they］ obtained money by selling what household goods they had.  {14MR 333.1}
[14MR 333.2]         Now, please let me know just what you want, as soon as possible. You see I hold out no inducement to you. Nothing would rejoice me more than to see you and your husband converted to the truth, which you know is truth. It will cost you a greater effort now than it would have done years ago; for no one can choose the path of disobedience rather than obedience and become better prepared to accept the truth which involves a cross. I think every objection was removed from your mind but one, and that is the cross. That objection no power in heaven or earth can remove. We have a great and yearning desire for every soul to receive and practice the truth, not from compulsion but because of the love of it. Heaven is worth everything to me, and your soul and the soul of your husband are of value with God. "All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep His covenant and His testimonies."  {14MR 333.2}
[14MR 333.3]          Obedience must come from the heart. It was always heart work with Christ. If you love Jesus, you will not think that it is a hard task to obey; you will obey as members of the royal family. Whether you are with me or apart from me, whether you see your way clearly or not, go forward in                                       -334-     obedience; for this is clear. All issues and results are to be left with God, who has given us His holy law, the transcript of His character.  {14MR 333.3}
[14MR 334.1]          The Son of God lived a perfect life of obedience in this world. We need always to keep in view the truthfulness of the humanity of Christ Jesus. When Christ became our substitute and surety, it was as a human being. He came as a man, and rendered the obedience of human nature to the only true God. He came not to show us what God could do, but what God did do, and what man, ［when he is］ a partaker of the divine nature, can do. It was the human nature of Christ that endured the temptations in the wilderness, not His divine nature. In His human nature He endured the contradiction of sinners against Himself. He lived a perfect human life. Jesus is everything to us, and He says to us, "Without Me ye can do nothing."  {14MR 334.1}
[14MR 334.2]          We know that the Lord Jesus was tempted in all points like as we are, and He knows how to succor all who shall be tempted. In His humanity, He suffered physical weariness and weakness, hunger, thirst, and sadness. As He saw how obdurate were the hearts of men, He was filled with sorrow. He remained whole nights in prayer for those who would not pray for themselves, and who would not come unto Him that they might have life. Shall we, for whom He suffered so much, choose our own way and will and selfish gratification? Jesus speaks to us, "Learn of Me"; "Be like Me." He was human, as you are.  {14MR 334.2}
[14MR 334.3]          I wish, Mary, that you had always employed your God-given talents in serving the Lord. Oh, that you might now surrender all to God. Write me again.--Letter 128, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate, Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985, Entire Letter  {14MR 334.3}
[14MR 335.1]       MR No. 1131 - Writing on Christ's Life; An Update on Members of the White Household         (Written April 24, 1876, from Oakland, California, to "Dear Husband.")          Mary has just been reading to me two articles--one ［was］ on the loaves and fishes, ［and］ Christ walking on the water and stating to His hearers He was the Bread of life, which caused some of His disciples to turn from him. This takes 50 pages and comprises many subjects. I do think it ［is］ the most precious matter I have ever written. Mary is just ［as］ enthusiastic over it. She thinks it is of the highest value. I am perfectly satisfied with it.  {14MR 335.1}
[14MR 335.2]          The other article was upon Christ going through the corn field plucking the ears of corn and healing the withered hand--12 pages. If I can with Mary's help get out these subjects of such intense interest, I could say, "Lord, now lettest Thy servant depart in peace." These writings are all I can see now. Mary's interest does not decrease at all. She is just as ardent and anxious as I am that this work shall be done now before we leave California. Interesting subjects are continually opening to my mind. These subjects I speak upon which fastens them in Mary's mind.  {14MR 335.2}
[14MR 335.3]          I believe that the Lord is with us and His Spirit will impress our hearts. Mary is only just after me. I have not subjects prepared ahead. My heart and mind are in this work, and the Lord will sustain me in doing this work. I believe the Lord will give me health. I have asked Him, and He will answer my prayer. I love the Lord. I love His cause. I love His                                          -336-     people. I feel great peace and calmness of mind. There seems to be nothing to confuse and distract my mind, and with so much hard thinking my mind could not be perplexed with anything without being overtaxed.  {14MR 335.3}
[14MR 336.1]          I have not the least care of anything in the house. Mary White is a good general. Shew is first rate. Shew gets meals now very good with some oversight. We have not had a particle of meat in the house since you left and long before you left. We have had salmon a few times. It has been rather high. We had green peas today. There are aplenty of strawberries in market. We have had none yet, too high--25 or 30 cents a box. We had new beets and new potatoes. You need not be concerned in regard to Willie's and Mary's economy. They are just right in these matters. I think they do splendidly. Everything seems to move off smoothly and well. All the house is well taken care of.  {14MR 336.1}
[14MR 336.2]          I generally choose to take care of my own room, for I dare not have a hand touch my writings or run any risk of having them mislaid.  {14MR 336.2}
[14MR 336.3]          The children go to Sister Jones' to read every day. This is a great relief to me.  {14MR 336.3}
[14MR 336.4]          Frank and George are doing well. Frank does not eat butter or sugar, and his face is better.  {14MR 336.4}
[14MR 336.5]          We are as regular as clockwork. We arise at five. The bell for prayers rings at six. We have prayers before breakfast. We breakfast quarter after six. There is seldom any variation in our time.  {14MR 336.5}
[14MR 336.6]          If my eyes did not ache, I would copy this, but if you will excuse this bad scribbling, I will do better next time. I have written this by twilight and lamplight, after my day's work of writing is done. Mary, Willie, and                                          -337-     myself are now seated at the table writing. Mary Clough is sewing. Frank is gone for the mail. George is in the office. Sister Rice is in her room. Shew has gone to bed. We are getting used to being alone, so that we do not feel lonesome as we did. I have written Adelia Van Horn. No answer yet.  {14MR 336.6}
[14MR 337.1]          _____ has written me a confession of his crimes. He has in act broken the seventh commandment more than once. He writes very penitent and humble. "Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots?" I have not hope of this poor sinner. His wickedness is dyed in the wool, I think.  {14MR 337.1}
[14MR 337.2]          My mind has been exercised for some days in regard to Frankie Patten. I see no reason why she should not come. She can certainly be a help if she will, but she will not be babied here. We all have to do our part, and she will have to do hers.  {14MR 337.2}
[14MR 337.3]          I dreamed night before last that a number of good families came from the East--clean, noble-looking families. They were unpacking their goods and we were saying, This is what California needs, the Eastern element introduced here more thoroughly. This will have a saving influence upon California if only those come who have a mind to work and lift when the load moves hard. But those who will be affected with the weak prejudice of California against Eastern men had not better come here. But I think the very best thing for California, according to the dream, is ［to］ have more instead of less from the East.  {14MR 337.3}
[14MR 337.4]          I must stop. Good night. Be of good courage, and be just as cheerful and happy as you can. I will do the same. If you fall at your post of duty engaged in doing your work, we will not murmur. If I fall, it will be well.                                          -338-  {14MR 337.4}
[14MR 338.1]          But I anticipate no such results. Go forward in faith and hope. I will do the same. If God's blessing rests upon us, we can but be happy.-- Letter 13, 1876.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985, Entire Letter  {14MR 338.1}
[14MR 339.1]       MR No. 1132 - Impart Knowledge of Healthful Cookery; Speak Words of Courage and Hope         (Written December 15, 1908, from Sanitarium, California, to "Dear Brother and Sister ［Metcalfe］ Hare.")            I received your letter today, for which I thank you. I am very sorry to learn that Sister Hare is not well. I cannot advise any remedy for her cough better than eucalyptus and honey. Into a tumbler of honey put a few drops of the eucalyptus, stir up well, and take whenever the cough comes on. I have had considerable trouble with my throat, but whenever I use this I overcome the difficulty very quickly. I have to use it only a few times, and the cough is removed. If you will use this prescription, you may be your own physician. If the first trial does not effect a cure, try it again. The best time to take it is before retiring.  {14MR 339.1}
[14MR 339.2]          Again, there is great virtue in well-cooked onions. Ask Edson White; he can tell you of the good that onions will do.  {14MR 339.2}
[14MR 339.3]         I am looking forward to seeing you at the conference at Washington. Of course you will be there, as we will, if the Lord permits. It is possible that we will visit Nashville on the way. We want to see how you are succeeding in your work. If you can set in operation the work of producing sensible health foods, and give instruction in healthful cooking, your work will prove a great blessing to the Southern field. I hope you will encourage cheerfulness, thus showing that you have confidence in God. I want you to let your light shine in clear distinct rays. There are many in our churches who have precious light that the people need.                                          -340-  {14MR 339.3}
[14MR 340.1]          There are some who, if there is discouragement in any line, are sure to express this. This is not the right way to do. Those who do not work in hopefulness, keep themselves under a cloud of doubt. The enemy is not dead yet, and the nearer we come to the close of this earth's history, the more vigilant will be the efforts of satanic agencies to keep souls under a cloud of doubt, so that the light of heaven shall not be expressed in words and acts, to bring hope and cheer and courage to others.  {14MR 340.1}
[14MR 340.2]          You are not to wait for perfect assurance before you become the Lord's light bearer to the world. You have naturally a despondent temperament to deal with, and the Lord calls upon you to take your light from under the bushel, and let it give light to all that are in the house. You have precious victories to gain. Do not spoil your religious experience by dwelling upon the dark side, and talking impossibility. Light is to shine in precious, encouraging words to all that are in the house.  {14MR 340.2}
[14MR 340.3]          Take heed, my brother, to the words of the One who is the light of the world: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." The world is full of hurry and disappointment. The words are addressed to you, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." The words in favor of truth, spoken with the assurance that comes from the possession of a right purpose, and in cheerful hope, from a pure heart, will make the angels rejoice. When in the day of final awards, the reward is given to each as his works have been, it is your privilege to have redeemed souls whom you have been the means of helping, come to you and say, "You lifted me out of discouragement." And the Master                                          -341-     will say to you, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant, . . . enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."  {14MR 340.3}
[14MR 341.1]          Not one quarter of the work has been done in our sanitariums that would have been done if ministers and physicians had been receiving in its fullness the instruction from the Author of all truth that it is their privilege to receive and impart. We are to watch for souls as they that must give an account. We are now having opportunities to improve in spiritual discernment and in the knowledge of the will of God concerning our individual selves. A higher spiritual tone is required of us. The Lord would have us spiritually minded, that we may be able to see the working out of His plans in our lives. We are to be laborers together with God in accomplishing the work that He would have done. Wherever we are, we are to reflect light.  {14MR 341.1}
[14MR 341.2]          It is your privilege to obtain most precious victories. Will you go forward in faith and hope and courage? You are privileged with the gift of the Word. It is full of instruction, and able to make you heirs of salvation. It is your duty to give the knowledge you have to others. You could not have a better opportunity than in perfecting a food business that will give the knowledge of health reform to others. To every man is given his work. You may be tested and tried in this way to see if you will let your light shine. Regard patience and kindness as sacred things which you must bring into every line of your work. You need to vindicate the greatness of the work by building up amiable characters. This you can do through the grace of Christ.  {14MR 341.2}
[14MR 341.3]          Be assured that if good food is made, influential men and women of the South will appreciate it, and the results will be excellent. Where you are is just the place for you to represent the truth, for there an attempt has                                          -342-     been made, and failure has brought health reform into disrepute. You are in an excellent situation to become acquainted with businessmen, and the work you may do for them may be a savor of life to the soul as well as to the body. You can, if you choose, be the right man in the right place, and your work be regarded as a great and perfect work. The instruction you can give will be a blessing to many lives, and your work ［can］ counterwork the influence that has hurt the cause of health reform and made us all ashamed.  {14MR 341.3}
[14MR 342.1]          It is your privilege to cure this evil. You can become acquainted with the unbelieving ［people in the South］, and be the means of removing a great amount of prejudice. You can reflect light. A word dropped in season, combined with the perfect carrying forward of your work, will accomplish grand results.  {14MR 342.1}
[14MR 342.2]          Deranged stomachs have made infidels. You can be a preacher of righteousness in this respect. The greatness of the work that may be accomplished in the lines of health reform has not been comprehended or appreciated. There is religion in the making of good bread. I hope you will consider these things, and realize that your work is of consequence.  {14MR 342.2}
[14MR 342.3]          I shall hope to see you when we visit Washington, if God will that we go there. We do not know what the future will bring forth, or determine anything certainly.  {14MR 342.3}
[14MR 342.4]          May the Lord bless you and guard you and teach you, is my prayer.-- Letter 348, 1908.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 11, 1985, Entire Letter  {14MR 342.4}
[14MR 343.1]       MR No. 1133 - God's Holy Law, the Unchanging Standard         "Thus saith the Lord; Go down to the house of the king of Judah, and speak there this word, and say, Hear the word of the Lord, O king of Judah, that sittest upon the throne of David, thou, and thy servants, and thy people that enter in by these gates: Thus saith the Lord; Execute ye judgment and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor: and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place.  {14MR 343.1}
[14MR 343.2]          "For if ye do this thing indeed, then shall there enter in by the gates of this house kings sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, he, and his servants, and his people. But if ye will not hear these words, I swear by Myself, saith the Lord, that this house shall become a desolation" ［Jeremiah 22:1-5］.  {14MR 343.2}
[14MR 343.3]          These words show plainly that God's promises are fulfilled on condition of obedience to God's commandments. These commandments are not grievous. God has given them for the good of His people. His law is the hedge which He has built around His vineyard for its protection. The Lord has plainly stated the laws of His kingdom, and has declared that He will abundantly bless His people if they will obey them. It is their life to obey. In keeping God's commandments there is great reward.  {14MR 343.3}
[14MR 343.4]          God sends messengers to tell His people what they must be and do in order to obey His laws of righteousness, which if a man do, he shall also live in them. They are to love God supremely, having no other gods before                                          -344-     Him; and they are to love their neighbor as themselves, doing to him as they would wish him to do to them.  {14MR 343.4}
[14MR 344.1]          Not one tittle of God's holy law is to be treated lightly or disrespectfully. Those who transgress a "Thus saith the Lord," stand under the banner of the prince of darkness, in rebellion against their Maker and their Redeemer. They claim the promises given to the obedient, saying, The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord are we, while they dishonor God by misrepresenting His character, by doing the very things He has told them not to do. They set up a standard which God has not given. Their example is misleading, their influence corrupting. They are not lights in the world, for they do not follow the principles of righteousness.  {14MR 344.1}
[14MR 344.2]          Men cannot show greater treachery toward God than by disregarding the light He sends them. Those who do this mislead the ignorant, for they set up false waymarks. They are continually perverting pure principles.  {14MR 344.2}
[14MR 344.3]          "Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbor's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work; that saith, I will build me a wide house and large chambers, and cutteth him out windows; and it is ceiled with cedar, and painted with vermilion.  {14MR 344.3}
[14MR 344.4]         "Shalt thou reign, because thou closest thyself in cedar? did not thy father eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, and then it was well with him? He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well with him: was not this to know Me? saith the Lord. But thine eyes and thine heart are not but for thy covetousness, and for to shed innocent blood, and for oppression, and for violence, to do it" ［verses 13-17］.                                          -345-  {14MR 344.4}
[14MR 345.1]         In the words of Holy Writ we are plainly told why desolation came upon the Jewish nation. They had great light, rich blessings, and wonderful prosperity. But they proved unfaithful to their trust. They did not care faithfully for the Lord's vineyard, or render Him the fruits thereof. They acted as though there were no God, and therefore calamity overtook them.  {14MR 345.1}
[14MR 345.2]          During the journeyings of the children of Israel through the wilderness, Jesus Christ, enshrouded in a pillar of cloud by day and in a pillar of fire by night, led them on their way, indicating where they should march and where they should pitch their tents. Christ guarded them from all the beasts of the wilderness and from the poisonous serpents. This they had reason to know; for when God removed His restraining power from the serpents, great was the affliction in the camp of the Israelites. Their murmuring was a constant offense to God. He saw that they had thrown off all fear of Him, and He permitted fiery serpents to attack them, that they might realize how in the past His power had guarded them from untold dangers.  {14MR 345.2}
[14MR 345.3]          Those bitten by the serpents cried out in their dying anguish, entreating Moses to call upon the Lord for deliverance. Moses cried to the Lord, and the Lord heard him, and told him to make a serpent of brass, and lift it up in the sight of all the people. To this serpent the people were to look, and those who looked were healed.  {14MR 345.3}
[14MR 345.4]          God desires men and women to awaken to a sense of His great mercy and lovingkindness. Every blessing we receive comes from Him. The Governor of the universe, He takes cognizance of the words and actions of human beings. He knows whether His children are deserving of praise or of condemnation. Each human being will be rewarded or punished according to his works.                                          -346-     Retribution must come upon those who disregard the laws which God has made known. Those who are loyal and obedient will be rewarded with the richest blessings. Those who are disloyal and presumptuous, who dishonor the laws of God's kingdom, refusing to repent, will surely be punished with death.  {14MR 345.4}
[14MR 346.1]          It is Satan's studied plan to keep God out of men's thoughts. He has great success in carrying out this plan. He is constantly bringing forward inventions to keep the mind absorbed in pleasure and money-making. The minds of the great majority of men are so taken up with the things of time, with worldly devices, that the things of eternity make no impression on them. Irrespective of the warnings in the Word of God, they show a most surprising indifference to the laws of His kingdom.  {14MR 346.1}
[14MR 346.2]          Selfishness, covetousness, and fraud bear sway in the world. There are thousands and millions who know nothing of their true relation to God, nothing of the laws which He has given them, nothing of the consequence of disobedience. Many are not ignorant of the facts, but they do not duly consider these facts as applied to their own case. All know that they must die, but not all ask themselves the question, "What shall be the future of my soul?" They know that there is a judgment to come, but their minds are so darkened that they are utterly unconcerned regarding what this judgment will bring to them. They have no realization of the selfishness of sin. They follow a course which the Lord of heaven has told them not to follow.  {14MR 346.2}
[14MR 346.3]          God will not let those who dishonor His name go unpunished. Unless they repent as they see the signs of His displeasure, unless they change the course of action which is dishonoring to His name, He will stretch forth His hand to punish again and again.                                          -347-  {14MR 346.3}
[14MR 347.1]          Satan calls intrigue, selfishness, ［and］ idolatry, proper and commendable. The children of disobedience are controlled by a spirit from beneath, which works with an intensity of effort against God.  {14MR 347.1}
[14MR 347.2]          God's character is revealed in the precepts of His holy law. This is the reason why Satan wishes this law to be made of none effect. But notwithstanding all his efforts, the law stands forth holy and unchanged. It is a transcript of God's character. It cannot be impeached or altered.  {14MR 347.2}
[14MR 347.3]          Wonderful inducements are held out to us to lead us to strive to attain to the glory and virtue manifested in Christ. Every encouragement is offered. Every provision has been made that we may be so conformed to the divine character that Christ can take us to live with Him in heaven. Exceeding great and precious promises have been made to us, but they are fulfilled to us only as we gain a knowledge of God. Divine knowledge is given to those who become partakers of the divine nature. Those who are saved must in this life gain a fitness to dwell with the royal family in the courts of heaven.  {14MR 347.3}
[14MR 347.4]          If we have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul, we shall gain an experience of more value than gold or silver or precious stones. The Holy Spirits works in the children of obedience. He who is a partaker of the divine nature will think the thoughts of God. His perceptions will be sanctified by the grace of Christ. He will work in Christ's lines, manifesting His kindness, thoughtfulness, mercy, and love, helping and not discouraging those around him.  {14MR 347.4}
[14MR 347.5]          "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." Wonderful are the possibilities placed before us, and to these possibilities we may attain by studying and practicing the Word of God. But                                          -348-     if we do not lay hold of Christ, if we do not daily gain an experimental knowledge of Him as our sufficiency, we are constantly losing ground. Many professed Christians have not yet reached the height and breadth of Christlikeness. We are to behold Christ by faith as the One whose perfection of character we are to obtain. With an intense, prayerful desire to be like Him, we are to behold Him, full of tenderness and love. Then, as we behold, we shall be changed into His likeness. He is the author and finisher of our faith.  {14MR 347.5}
[14MR 348.1]          In every trying situation we are to ask, "Were Christ placed as I am, what would He do?" We are to go to God in humble faith, and on our knees give ourselves wholly and entirely to Him. We are to make it our choice to do as Christ would do. Christ has placed every one of us on vantage ground. "For verily He took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took on Him the seed of Abraham. 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. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able also to succor them that are tempted" ［Hebrews 2:16-18］.  {14MR 348.1}
[14MR 348.2]          Christ assumed human nature that He might reach humanity and at the same time through His divinity lay hold of divine power. He became a man that men and women might become one with Him as He is one with the Father. While on this earth, He was tempted in all points like as we are. He says to every believing child, Fear not; I have overcome the world. The victories that I obtained make it possible for you to be more than a conqueror.                                          -349-  {14MR 348.2}
[14MR 349.1]          I am instructed to present the rich and gracious assurance that by faith we may be partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. Christ has endured all the suffering and overcome all the temptation that we shall be called upon to endure and overcome. He knows what it means to be tried and tested. His experience in suffering with humanity has given Him a tender, sympathetic heart for all human suffering. He is willing to give grace to all who are tempted.  {14MR 349.1}
[14MR 349.2]          He who claims to be a teacher, a shepherd of the flock, a guide and an instructor, should show that his perverse heart has been changed by a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus. By his kindness and tenderness he is to show what the truth can do for one who will practice it. As precious jewels, words of sympathy are to fall from his lips, strengthening and encouraging and blessing the needy. Those whose hearts are filled with the love of Christ will express this love in word and action.  {14MR 349.2}
[14MR 349.3]          God is in earnest with us. Only those who are converted will enter into the kingdom of heaven. What would we think of Christ manifesting no warmth of love, no disposition to help those in need? Yet thus do many who claim to be His followers. They are cold and unsympathetic. They make no efforts to help those with whom they come in contact. They show that they are not transformed in character. Their words show that they are not converted. They have none of Christ's tenderness. Their unamiable traits of character, their lack of sympathy, show that they have lost their first love.                                          -350-  {14MR 349.3}
[14MR 350.1]          They need to repent and be converted, for Christ is greatly dishonored by their selfishness. The Saviour does not abide in their hearts, or they would be touched with the feelings of others' infirmities. They are self-centered, harsh, unaccommodating. They choose to represent the spirit that dwells in the children of disobedience.  {14MR 350.1}
[14MR 350.2]          If when Christ comes the second time, they are as they are now--harsh in words, coarse in spirit, destitute of Christian love--their candlestick will be removed out of its place. They will be unready to meet their Lord. Oh, that they would feel the necessity of putting on the Lord Jesus! Oh, that they would seek to understand what is due from man to God!  {14MR 350.2}
[14MR 350.3]         I tell you in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, that there must be an individual reformation. Unless men reveal Christlikeness in all their dealings with their fellow men, unless they obey the law of heaven in every particular, they will never enter the city of God. There is no excuse for anyone to fail. Christ's character is before all, for study and imitation.  {14MR 350.3}
[14MR 350.4]          When, like Christ, men manifest good will toward men, the truth will sanctify the soul. But preaching the truth while the practice is corrupt makes the truth of none effect. God is dishonored by those who honor Him in theory only.  {14MR 350.4}
[14MR 350.5]          If one does a piece of work which is not wholly perfect, shall his brethren pull it to pieces, speaking of it scathingly and contemptuously? The one who has made mistakes may be doing his very best. Did Christ treat the work of His disciples thus? If He should treat erring human beings as their shortcomings deserve, what would become of them? Well may every mortal say, "Let me fall into the hands of the living God, rather than into the hands of men." God is too wise to err, and too good to do us harm.                                          -351-  {14MR 350.5}
[14MR 351.1]          There are those who are driven away from Christ by the harshness of professing Christians. They might have done a good work in saving souls, but they have been stung to death by the inconsistency of those claiming to follow Christ, those who are Christians in name only. These weave into the web of life unsightly threads of selfishness, but their eyes are not anointed with the heavenly eyesalve, therefore they assert that the pattern is correct. But the threads of selfishness are there.  {14MR 351.1}
[14MR 351.2]          To some it appears degrading to wear Christ's yoke of submission and obedience. Many prefer to wear the yokes which they have manufactured for themselves. They choose the way that seems right in their own eyes. Their actions testify that they have not an experimental knowledge of God.  {14MR 351.2}
[14MR 351.3]          Those who are connected with God's service should be sanctified, soul, body, and spirit, else they will mar God's work and put Christ to open shame. What does God's Word mean when it declares that Christ will present to Himself a church without spot or wrinkle or any such thing? It means that God's people can and must reach the standard of Christian perfection. But in order to do this they must learn of Christ His meekness and lowliness. "This is life eternal," the Saviour said, "that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent."  {14MR 351.3}
[14MR 351.4]          Study the instruction given in the first chapter of First Peter. It points out to us the source of our strength. By the sacrifice of Christ every provision has been made for believers to receive all things that pertain to life and godliness. God calls upon us to reach the highest  standard of glory and virtue. The perfection of Christ's character makes it  possible for us to gain perfection.                                          -352-  {14MR 351.4}
[14MR 352.1]          He who desires to rise to true greatness must walk humbly before God, not with a forced humility, but with a genuine sense of his own inefficiency and of God's greatness. He is to strive earnestly to make the soul temple a place where God delights to dwell.  {14MR 352.1}
[14MR 352.2]          He whose heart God touches is filled with a great love for those who have never heard the truth. Their condition impresses him with a sense of personal woe. Taking his life in his hand, he hurries away, a God-sent, God-inspired messenger, to do a work in which angels can cooperate.--Ms 73, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. April 11, 1985, Entire Ms.  {14MR 352.2}
[14MR 353.1]       MR No. 1134 - In the Mountains of Colorado      (Written in the Colorado mountains, diary entry for September 28, 1873.)            Brother Glover left the camp today to go for supplies. We are getting short of provisions. We got him the best we could for his meals on the way. He was to send Mr. Walling immediately and to get our mail. A young man from Nova Scotia had come in from hunting. He had a quarter of deer. He had traveled 20 miles with this deer upon his back. The remainder of the deer he had left hung up in the woods. He saw six elk but did not try to shoot them as he knew he could not carry them out. He gave us a small piece of the meat, which we made into broth. Willie shot a duck which came in a time of need, for our supplies were rapidly diminishing.--Manuscript 11, 1873.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. April 11, 1985  {14MR 353.1}
[15MR 0.1]         15MR - Manuscript Releases Volume Fifteen ［Nos. 1136-1185］ (1990)      A WORD OF EXPLANATION         WHEN ELLEN WHITE DIED IN 1915, SHE LEFT HER MANUSCRIPTS AND LETTERS IN THE CUSTODY OF A SMALL GROUP OF MINISTERS AND ADMINISTRATORS IN THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH WHOM SHE HAD APPOINTED TO SERVE AS TRUSTEES OF HER ESTATE. AS THE YEARS PASSED, THESE TRUSTEES AND THEIR SUCCESSORS BECAME INCREASINGLY AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL USEFULNESS TO THE CHURCH OF THIS GOLD MINE OF UNPUBLISHED MATERIALS. PROCEDURES WERE DEVELOPED WHEREBY CHURCH ENTITIES, OR EVEN INDIVIDUALS, COULD REQUEST THE "RELEASE" OF SPECIFIED EXCERPTS FROM ELLEN WHITE'S WRITINGS FOR USE IN BOOKS, ARTICLES, CLASS LECTURES, OR SERMONS. FOR DETAILS OF THE RELEASE PROCESS THE READER IS REFERRED TO THE PREFACE TO MANUSCRIPT RELEASES, VOL. 1.       AS IN THE EARLIER VOLUMES, MATERIALS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ELSEWHERE IN PUBLISHED FORM HAVE NOT BEEN INCLUDED IN THE PRESENT VOLUME. IN A FEW CASES MATERIALS UNDER CONSIDERATION AND ASSIGNED A RELEASE NUMBER WERE NOT  PROCESSED. AND THE NUMBER WAS NOT REASSIGNED. UNTIL 1983, ONLY THE EXCERPTS REQUESTED FOR PUBLIC USE WERE "RELEASED." STARTING WITH MANUSCRIPT RELEASE NO. 970, THE WHITE ESTATE BEGAN "RELEASING" ENTIRE LETTERS OR MANUSCRIPTS, SO FAR AS POSSIBLE, EVEN IF ONLY PARTICULAR PARAGRAPHS WERE REQUESTED.       COPY FOR THIS VOLUME HAS BEEN SENT TO THE PUBLISHER CAMERA-READY, WHICH MEANS THAT ANY TYPOGRAPHICAL MISTAKES OR OTHER INACCURACIES WHICH MAY APPEAR ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WHITE ESTATE, NOT THE PUBLISHER.       WE TAKE PLEASURE IN MAKING THESE MATERIALS AVAILABLE IN THIS FORM, AND TRUST THAT THE COUNSELS, WARNINGS, AND PRINCIPLES PUT FORTH BY THE AUTHOR WILL BRING A BLESSING TO EVERY READER.                                    THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE                                    WASHINGTON, D.C.  {15MR 0.1}
[15MR 0.2]     Table of Contents      A Word of Explanation    Manuscript Release                                                  Page            1136      Included in Manuscript Release No. 1184.            1137      Exalt and Praise God at Camp Meetings.............  1            1138      Plans for Church Buildings; How to Secure the                    Best Soul Winning Results from Camp Meetings .....  6            1139      To Be No Controversies at Camp Meeting; Hold Camp                    Meeting Near Site of Previous Year's Meeting ..... 10            1140      Image to Beast Formed Before Close of Probation... 12            1141      Cautions About Making Doctrinal Differences                    Prominent; Contemplating the Marvels and Mysteries                    of the Incarnation ............................... 18            1142      Physicians Are Reformers and Are Follow Christ's                    Example; The Sabbath a Sign; The Importance of                    Attention to Little Things........................ 29            1143      Under Most Circumstances, Children Should Be Part                    of the Home Firm While Attending School .......... 43            1144      Care To Be Exercised in Making Changes in                    Textbooks and Other Matters in School; Helping                    Inexperienced Teachers............................ 47            1145      Productivity of the Soil at Avondale; Workers for                    God Must Be Thoroughly Converted and Be One With                    Christ ........................................... 54            1146      Public Evangelism To Be Conducted by Team of Two                    Ministers ........................................ 59            1147      More Ministers Needed Who Have the Ability to                    Serve as Evangelists ............................. 61            1148      Ellen G. White and The Apocrypha ................. 65            1149      E. G. White Materials in The Early Years, by                    A. L. White            1150      Speculation in Lands and Mines ................... 68            1151      Work the Cities; Talk Faith; Do Not Be Discouraged      76            1152      The Message of 1888; An Appeal for Unity; The Need                    for the Indwelling Christ......................... 80            1153      Deaths on Pitcairn Island......................... 95            1154      Value of the Soul; Importance of the Will;                    Christ's Intercession in the Heavenly Sanctuary .. 97            1155      The Danger of Extravagance in Illustrating Our                    Books ............................................ 105            1156      Overuse of Pictures a Species of Idolatry ........ 114            1157      Both Young Teachers and Older Ones Are Needed..... 118            1158      Biblical Counsel on Solving Church Difficulties... 124            1159      Treatment of the Erring........................... 172            1160      How to Deal With Those Who Have Faults ........... 200            1161      Should Our Youth Go To Battle Creek? ............. 203            1162      Satan's Power is Broken Through Prayer ........... 207            1163      Letter From Paris, Maine, November 1850 .......... 210            1164      Different Talents Are Needed in the Ministry ..... 214            1165      Heaven's Judgments on the Wicked; God's People                    Sealed............................................ 217            1166      The General Conference Relocation; The Book of                    Daniel; Elder Haskell's Work and Wages ........... 227            1167      Counsel and Reproof............................... 231            1168      More Souls May Be Won by Camp Meetings Than By                    Gospel Wagons; The Importance of Providing Church                    Buildings for New Converts ....................... 250            1169      Instruction to Believers ......................... 253            1170      Right Preparation for Medical Missionary Work..... 258            1171      Encouragement for One who Had Been Bereaved ...... 265            1172      Included in Manuscript Release No1349            1173      E. G. White Materials Cited in a Paper by Gary                    Krause on the History of Adventist Work in Sydney                    and Melbourne, Australia. Available at the White                    Estate.            1174      The Motive Determines the Quality of the Act ..... 269            1175      Disagreements Concerning College View............. 270            1176      False Humility ................................... 271            1177      E. G. White Material Appearing in Ellen White                    and Vegetarianism, by Roger Coon. Available                    at Adventist Book Centers.            1178      Building and Managing Sanitariums and Other Health                    Institutions...................................... 272            1179      The Evil of Rebellion ............................ 286            1180      Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim                    the Truth......................................... 294            1181      Counsel Relating to the Work in Los Angeles and                    the Paradise Valley Sanitarium.................... 312            1182      A Caution Against Heavy Investment in Food                    Manufacture....................................... 318            1183      Testimony for Monterey, Michigan.................. 326            1184      Building a Meetinghouse at Avondale; How to Make                    Camp Meetings Productive; Nathaniel Davis and                    Demon Possession ................................. 338            1185      The European Missionary Council .................. 345  {15MR 0.2}
[15MR 1.1]       MR No. 1137 - Exalt and Praise God at Camp Meetings         (Written September 28, 1897, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., to A. G. Daniells.)  {15MR 1.1}
[15MR 1.2]          I received your letter this afternoon. We are pleased that you have found grounds for the camp meeting. Our only fear is that you will be limited for space. I cannot see where you will find room to erect the large tent, the buildings necessary, and the family tents. It is altogether the smallest ground I have ever heard of for a camp meeting.  {15MR 1.2}
[15MR 1.3]          In reference to the question you asked me, I consider it an altogether different matter. You have had your printing establishment long enough in North Fitzroy. This has given character and standing and influence to our cause there. The showing in Melbourne is altogether different from that in Sydney. With your printing press you have opportunity to publish anything you deem essential, without long delay or large expense, to meet any emergency that may arise. I would say, Follow your convictions. You have altogether a different community in those who have embraced the truth. There are many composing the number who claim to believe the truth whose judgment is too limited to carry through any large work intelligently in the line you propose to do in Melbourne. I have nothing, not one drawback to your plans, in the light that the Lord has given me. All my fear is that there will not be that humble, contrite spirit that would insure the blessing of God.                                      -2-  {15MR 1.3}
[15MR 2.1]          When one has such a breadth of intelligence that he has outgrown his simplicity and dependence upon God, then we cannot depend on him, for Christ says, "Without Me, ye can do nothing." When by faith we have a right hold from above, we have an experience that we are walking with God as did Enoch. We have nothing to fear in an emergency. They that are for us are more than they that can be against us. If we are wholly consecrated to God, we shall be laborers together with Him.  {15MR 2.1}
[15MR 2.2]          If it were left to us to manage the interest of the cause of God in our own way and according to our disposition and strength, we would not need to expect much; but if self is hid with Christ in God, all our plans and methods will be wrought in God. God has imparted to us our moral powers and all our religious susceptibilities. We must draw nigh to God. We must be laborers together with Him, else weakness and mistakes will be seen in all we undertake. Let us have faith in God at every step. While we realize our own weakness, let us not be faithless, but believing. Let us learn the precious lesson you recently learned in Ballarat.  {15MR 2.2}
[15MR 2.3]          I firmly believe that we shall see of the salvation of God if we will take Him at His word. The very gospel that we present to save perishing souls must be to us the gospel that saves our own souls. We must eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God. We must receive the word of God. To all intents and purposes, we must eat the word, live the word. It is the flesh of the Son of God. We must drink of His blood, the spiritual attributes of Jesus Christ, and constantly develop as the result of the nourishment which the soul receives in eating His flesh and drinking His blood. Then our lips will utter His praise.                                       -3-  {15MR 2.3}
[15MR 3.1]          If in our camp meetings we will only walk humbly with God, if we will work in the spirit of Jesus Christ, none of us will carry heavy burdens. We will lay them upon the great Burdenbearer. We may expect triumphs in the presence of God in the communion of His love, from the beginning to the end. The camp meeting may be a love feast, because we have the assurance of God's presence. We shall have a signal manifestation of His glory.  {15MR 3.1}
[15MR 3.2]          If we as believers enjoy the truth because we practice it, we shall give the impression that the truth is not a yoke of bondage, but that it has given us our emancipation papers, and we are free in Christ Jesus our Lord. The Lord Himself will make impressions on the people, and they will say, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God." A foretaste of Christ's mercy, His abundant love and compassion, will be felt by his people.  {15MR 3.2}
[15MR 3.3]          "Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." All darkness, all murmuring, all complaining, all talking unbelief, must be crucified. The Christ will put a new song on human lips, even songs of praise to our God. There should be far more thanksgiving and less murmuring and complaining; for all this kind of exercise is displeasing to our God. We have enough for which to praise God. He would have us walk in the light as He is in the light. Why do we not do this? Why do we not talk of His love, and tell of His goodness and His wonderful works to the children of men?  {15MR 3.3}
[15MR 3.4]          We must learn what it means to believe in God. When will we learn to be not faithless but believing? Can God say any more than He has said to                                      -4-     inspire us with faith and hope? We have no excuse for our conversation taking a low, desponding level. We need not exalt self, neither need we take special words to God, to depreciate self. We are the Lord's property. He declares, "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." How shall we glorify Him? "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God." From His throne above He calls to us, "Look unto Me, and be ye saved, . . . for I am God, and there is none else."  {15MR 3.4}
[15MR 4.1]          Oh, why are our lips so ready to exalt and praise ourselves? Why have we so few words of praise to give our Lord Jehovah? Have we not fled for refuge to lay hold on the hope set before us? Are we not commanded to be joyful in our King? Jesus is our living Advocate in the presence of our Father. Talk of Him as the One who can and does save to the uttermost all who come unto God through Him. Let us learn to speak His praises. "Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; He also is become my salvation" ［Isaiah 12:2］. If we have tasted that the Lord is gracious, let us show that we are able intelligently to make Him known. Let us talk faith, helping others who are in the region and shadow of death.  {15MR 4.1}
[15MR 4.2]         Well I did not expect to write as much as I have. But I will say a few words more. We must rely wholly upon God. It is your only safety to let your tendrils entwine about God. We must educate our tongues to speak more hopefully, with thanksgiving to His dear name. We want to encourage and educate every soul who claims to believe the truth, to talk of Jesus. He is the resurrection and the life.                                     -5-  {15MR 4.2}
[15MR 5.1]          None of us need flatter ourselves that while the world is progressing in wickedness we shall have no difficulties. It is these very difficulties that bring us to the audience chamber of the Most High, to seek counsel of One who is infinite in wisdom. He loves to have us seek Him, to trust Him, and believe in Him. If we had no perplexities, no trials, we would become self-sufficient and lifted up in ourselves. The true saints will be purified and made white and tried.  {15MR 5.1}
[15MR 5.2]          Will you do your best to awaken the dormant energies of the people of God, to seek the Lord with all the heart, that they may find Him, and to keep His love burning in their hearts because they love the truth as it is in Jesus? I am determined not to be discouraged. I am determined to keep my face lifted up to the Sun of Righteousness. I want the light and power of God in my soul. We need not become cold and dark and Christless. We are to pray and believe, and watch unto prayer.  {15MR 5.2}
[15MR 5.3]          I am glad you are to have a period of rest in Cooranbong. I hope soon to see Willie and others who will come with him. Be of good courage, and joyful in the Lord. Talk faith, and you will have faith --Letter 42, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 5.3}
[15MR 6.1]       MR No. 1138 - Plans for Church Buildings; How to Secure the Best Soul Winning Results from Camp Meetings         (Written November 21, 1897, from Stanmore, N.S.W., to "Brother Evans.")          I have ［had］ but ［a］ few minutes' conversation with W.C.W. since his return to Australia. We met him in Stanmore at our camp meeting. This meeting was indeed a meeting of great interest, and the interest is being followed up as well as can be done to bind off the work here in Sydney. There must be no lax movements done, after an interest has been created in any place. There has been a house selected as a home in every way appropriate for the workers. Some are engaged in selling papers, small books, and pamphlets, and others who are experienced--Brother and Sister Haskell, Brother and Sister Starr, and Brother Baker--are engaged in meetings and holding Bible readings, and calling on the people as they are invited.  {15MR 6.1}
[15MR 6.2]          About 20 have taken their stand upon the Sabbath question; others are deciding. I came down here last Friday. For the past three weeks I have been very sick. My sickness was caused by overwork at the camp meeting. On Sabbath I ventured to speak in the tent. A hot wave had just passed over New South Wales, and the heat seemed as if it was coming from a burning furnace; yet the Lord gave me strength, and last night I rested in sleep.  {15MR 6.2}
[15MR 6.3]         This morning ［I arose］ at my usual ［time］--at three o'clock--［and］ I am writing these lines. I thank the Lord that I am being strengthened. This morning the atmosphere is cooler. There is work enough for 12 earnest                                             -7-     workers. I have just written to Cooranbong for Brother Wilson and his wife to come to Sydney and unite in the work here. We expect them today; also W. C. White, on his way to Melbourne.  {15MR 6.3}
[15MR 7.1]          A telegram came from Melbourne last Thursday for Elder Haskell to attend the camp meeting there, but it is impossible for him to do so. The interest here requires all the force we have here, and even more helpers than we have here now. Not one can be spared. The class who are now becoming interested and taking their stand for the truth are those who will be able to assist in the financial part of the work, and also with their influence in helping to reach other souls. We feel very thankful to God for this encouragement. We are now hearing that precious souls are being moved by the Holy Spirit. We will continue to work and pray as well.  {15MR 7.1}
[15MR 7.2]          The souls who have newly come to the faith, and others who have not fully decided, are stirred in regard to building a church; we will call it a tabernacle. We have a neat, nice place of worship at Cooranbong, every way appropriate. It was dedicated without one penny of debt upon it. This can be a pattern for Stanmore, if proper grounds can be obtained; if not, we shall have to select some suburb nearer Sydney. We think there will be considerable help from outside parties.  {15MR 7.2}
[15MR 7.3]          We have no tabernacle in which to worship in the large city of Sydney, but if the people of Sydney will unite in this work we can build a tabernacle to accommodate the church in Sydney, Stanmore, and other suburbs; and when they are a little stronger in numbers, a house of worship must go up in Sydney proper, but work must first be done in Sydney. Next year a camp meeting should be repeated here in Stanmore or nearer Sydney, if the Lord wills. We have no time now to hesitate; the work must advance.                                             -8-  {15MR 7.3}
[15MR 8.1]          The class who are now taking hold of the work are of the higher class. These will help to reach the higher class. The Lord knows just how much we need to attain an influence over a class that can be a help in helping others to see the truth, and also to sustain and advance the work. We have no time to devote to hesitance and unbelief. The work must go.  {15MR 8.1}
[15MR 8.2]          In Newcastle and Maitland, places about 20 miles from Cooranbong, considerable work has been done in canvassing. Now there is an interest to hear the truth, and yet no labor has been given in ［a］ tent effort. There are also small towns between Morissett and Sydney, where there has been no labor. The work must go forward in these places. The standard must be raised. Fields are opening and calls are being made from every direction, Send us a minister. The people want a minister to present to them the truth. We need the inspiration of faith continually.  {15MR 8.2}
[15MR 8.3]          We have had the most successful camp meeting that has been held in New South Wales. It exceeded anything we had hoped. The light of the third angel's message has penetrated many dark places. We need every day a living connection with God. Our faith is not as strong as it should be. As a people we are not as devotional as we should be. We have great light, great opportunities, great privileges, and we now need to walk with the light and have a faith proportionate to the great and living truths we are handling. We must not trust in our own powers or in the powers and smartness of our speakers. We must lean our whole weight upon One who can help us in every emergency. Our work is aggressive; there must be no halting. There must be less, far less, hovering about the churches, and far more lifting the standard in new fields. Our ministers must give the trumpet a certain sound,                                             -9-     lifting up Jesus and saying, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."  {15MR 8.3}
[15MR 9.1]          The light of truth must flash forth upon the pathway of many who have never heard the message of warning. We want light to go forth everywhere. I am pleading for physical strength, mental clearness, and spiritual power. The Lord is my helper. He can be my efficiency. He will be our strength. We have no time to lose. The end of all things is at hand.--Letter 51, 1897, pages 1-3.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985  {15MR 9.1}
[15MR 10.1]       MR No. 1139 - To Be No Controversies at Camp Meeting; Hold Camp Meeting Near Site of Previous Year's Meeting         (Written February 13, 1901, from Crystal Springs, St. Helena, California, to "Brother and Sister Starr and Mother Sisley.")           I can write you only a few lines. I thank you for your letter. I was very glad to hear the good news of your camp meeting and to know that interest is still shown. I am glad that the door is not closed by any discussions or controversy. Then there is no taking sides. Those who place themselves on the wrong side seldom change to the right side, therefore there should be no controversies at our camp meetings. We are to use the strength of our words and influence to advance the truth in clear, straight lines, receiving and imparting light. As the leaven of the precious truth is introduced, it silently diffuses itself, imparting its own properties and tendencies, until the whole lump is leavened. Satan's evil leaven of unbelief will often be introduced to prevent the work of reformation ［from］ going on, but nevertheless the vital current of truth must constantly flow forth and impress minds.  {15MR 10.1}
[15MR 10.2]         New territories must be entered, and the closer these territories are to one another the better can they be cared for. As fields near together are worked, the small companies raised up gain strength from association with one another. It is not always best when arranging for a camp meeting,                                             -11-     to hold it a long way from where the camp meeting was held the year before. If it ［is］ held near, those who were not converted at the previous meeting may be at this.  {15MR 10.2}
[15MR 11.1]          I am sure ［that］ revival efforts are just what is needed to bind off the work. And in every place where souls are brought unto the truth, a place of worship should be prepared for them as soon as possible.  {15MR 11.1}
[15MR 11.2]          I must now stop. I am not fit to write. Remember when you see mistakes, that Sister White can hardly hold the pen in her fingers sometimes. I write because I desire the chain of communication ［to be］ kept unbroken and to let you know that we feel an interest in you and your work.  {15MR 11.2}
[15MR 11.3]          May the Lord help you and bless you as a family, and guide you, is my most earnest prayer. May He strengthen and bless you and give you the precious sunlight of His countenance.--Letter 25, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 11.3}
[15MR 12.1]       MR No. 1140 - Image to the Beast Formed Before Close of Probation         (Written August 6, 1890, presumably from Petoskey, Michigan, to "Brother and Sister Garmire.")  {15MR 12.1}
[15MR 12.2]          Since visiting your house Sabbath afternoon, August 23, some things have rested on my mind to say to you. I have no hesitancy in saying that Anna's visions are not of God. The dreams that the members of your family have had are a deception of Satan. Will the Lord give light through an impure, corrupt channel? No.  {15MR 12.2}
[15MR 12.3]          This wonderful interpretation of Scripture which you have accepted, came from a man who was wholly deceived. Such ideas as he advanced, such interpretation of the third angel's message and other Bible truths, such corrupting, sensual things, could come only from a mind defiled. My pen refuses to trace his blasphemous pretensions. Here is where you received your light.  {15MR 12.3}
[15MR 12.4]          Anna's visions have no higher source than the ideas you accepted from the blind man Jones. Can an impure foundation send forth pure water? Never. The imagination of the man was wholly defiled, and yet he presented his error as solemn, sacred truth. Think you the Lord would pass by His people, who are striving to do His work, and impart light to one corrupt in heart, whose theories would lead to moral pollution and defilement of soul and body? No, indeed no.                                         -13-  {15MR 12.4}
[15MR 13.1]          Satan saw that he could work upon your fruitful imagination, and lead you, with others, into his net. Did God give you that time message? No; for no such message comes from the true source of light. You present your calculations and figures, as many First Day Adventists have, but your reckoning is founded on false premises. In the little leaflet you sent out you speak of "the judgment" coming in one hour, and that God will work "His strange work" and "cut it short in righteousness" and seal to Himself a remnant, in fifteen days.  {15MR 13.1}
[15MR 13.2]         On page 8 you present Anna's vision in regard to a certain woman as a confirmation of your theory that probation would end in October, 1884. There is nothing to this. Probation is not yet closed; the saints are not yet sealed. In the next paragraph you give Anna's dream in regard to her father. Neither has this any weight, nor the dream your wife has had. They are all false.  {15MR 13.2}
[15MR 13.3]          I quote from your tract: "The Lord plainly tells you the literal days He will be pleading with you, in Hosea 5:7--for fifteen days on the testimony, and fifteen more days on the laws, in the loud cry. I shall not be able to get this tract before any of you more than thirty days before the time is accomplished."  {15MR 13.3}
[15MR 13.4]         You say, "Hundreds will be in the Tabernacle; and as they have rejected the Lord, He will reject them, and send them strong delusions, that they may believe a lie." Who was it that was deluded? Who was it that believed a lie? Then you make quotations from Sister White to substantiate your false theories.                                        -14-  {15MR 13.4}
[15MR 14.1]         Forty thousand of these leaflets were sent out. One of your party prevailed upon a young man who was naturally conscientious, to steal the mailing list of the Review and Herald, from which to obtain names to whom to send your falsehoods. This was a State's prison crime. Such work in no sense bears the divine mark. Time has proved you to be a false prophet, and Anna's visions false exercises. God never works in this way.  {15MR 14.1}
[15MR 14.2]         Satan has other and stronger delusions prepared for you. You will claim, if you have not already done so, that you have a work to do in connection with Anna's visions, corresponding to that of the mighty angel that came down from heaven, whose glory lightened the earth. Satan sees that your mind is all ready to be impressed with his suggestions, and he will use you to your own ruin, unless in the name of the Lord you break the shackles that bind you.  {15MR 14.2}
[15MR 14.3]          The parable of the call to supper has no bearing on your theories. It is a lesson given by Christ to reach to the close of probation. You dwell on this parable, and call in the Scripture, when you have wholly perverted and misapplied its meaning.  {15MR 14.3}
[15MR 14.4]          You and your wife and Sister Eastman have said, "Show us from the Bible that we are in error, and we will give it up." But how can I prove your error by Scripture when you misinterpret and misapply it as you do?  {15MR 14.4}
[15MR 14.5]          It was this same spirit in the Jews which called forth the words of Christ, "Ye are ignorant both of the Scriptures and of the power of God." They entertained the idea that Christ at His first advent was to break the Roman yoke from off their necks, and that He would then honor Israel by placing them above every other people on the earth. And they produced                                      -15-     Scripture to sustain them; but they were deceived. The Old Testament prophecies which relate to the glorious second appearing of Christ, they applied to His first advent, and many, even the wise and educated, were deceived. Their error was fatal.  {15MR 14.5}
[15MR 15.1]          Several times during our conversation, in which you become very much in earnest, you repeated the sentence, "O consistency, thou art a jewel!" I repeat the same with decided force to you. You say that Anna's visions place the forming of the image of the beast after probation closes. This is not so. You claim to believe the testimonies; let them set you right on this point. The Lord has shown me clearly that the image of the beast will be formed before probation closes; for it is to be the great test for the people of God, by which their eternal destiny will be decided. Your position is such a jumble of inconsistencies that but few will be deceived.  {15MR 15.1}
[15MR 15.2]          In Revelation 13 this subject is plainly presented; ［Revelation 13:11-17, quoted］.  {15MR 15.2}
[15MR 15.3]         This is the test that the people of God must have before they are sealed. All who prove their loyalty to God by observing His law, and refusing to accept a spurious sabbath, will rank under the banner of the Lord God Jehovah, and will receive the seal of the living God. Those who yield the truth of heavenly origin, and accept the Sunday sabbath, will receive the mark of the beast. What need will there be of the solemn warning not to receive the mark of the beast, when all the saints of God are sealed and ticketed for the New Jerusalem? "O consistency, thou art a jewel!"  {15MR 15.3}
[15MR 15.4]          You have taken the history of the disobedient prophet, as given in the Old Testament, and applied it to Sister White. You say she is perfectly                                         -16-     honest, but the deceived prophet. For this reason the testimonies of the Spirit of God can have no effect on you. Has the Lord opened to you or your daughter, your wife or your children, the disobedience of Sister White? If she has walked contrary to God, will you show in what? My duty is to make plain statements of my position; for you misinterpret my testimony, wrench it from its true meaning, and ring in my name whenever you think it will enforce whatever you have to say. But when the testimonies do not harmonize with your theories, I am excused, because I am the false prophet! There are many ways of evading the truth.  {15MR 15.4}
[15MR 16.1]          You seem to have special bitterness against Elder ［Uriah］ Smith, and some others of our brethren, and you have talked out these feelings in your family, thus leavening them. The Lord has seen fit to counsel Elder Smith, to give him words of reproof because he had erred; but is this an evidence that God has forsaken him? No. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent" ［Revelation 3:19］. The Lord reproves wrongs in His people, but is this an evidence that He has rejected them? No. There are errors in the church, and the Lord points them out by His own ordained agencies, not always through the testimonies. Now, shall we seize these reproofs and make capital of them, and say that God is not imparting to them His light and love? No. The very work that God is trying to do for them shows that He loves them and wants to draw them away from paths of danger.  {15MR 16.1}
[15MR 16.2]          God has spoken in reference to yourself. That which you term light from heaven, He has pronounced darkness, and the visions born of this error, He calls a delusion. Will you believe this testimony? Will you heed what                                         -17-     the Lord has spoken through Sister White, or will you cast the word of the Lord behind you? Will you quote this testimony as readily, and make capital of it, as you have of testimonies of reproof given your brethren who have erred in some things? "O consistency, thou art a jewel!"--Letter 11, 1890.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 16.2}
[15MR 18.1]       MR No. 1141 - Cautions About Making Doctrinal Differences Prominent; Contemplating the Marvels and Mysteries of the Incarnation         (Written February 18, 1887, from Basel, Switzerland, to E. J. Waggoner and A. T. Jones.)  {15MR 18.1}
[15MR 18.2]          I have something to say to you that I should withhold no longer. I have been looking in vain as yet to get an article that was written nearly twenty years ago in reference to the "added law." I read this to Elder ［J. H.］ Waggoner. I stated then to him that I had been shown ［that］ his position in regard to the law was incorrect, and from the statements I made to him he has been silent upon the subject for many years.  {15MR 18.2}
[15MR 18.3]         I have not been in the habit of reading any doctrinal articles in the paper, that my mind should not have any understanding of anyone's ideas and views, and that not a mold of any man's theories should have any connection with that which I write. I have sent repeatedly for my writings on the law, but that special article has not yet appeared. There is such an article in Healdsburg, I am well aware, but it has not come as yet. I have much writing many years old on the law, but the special article that I read to Elder Waggoner has not come to me yet.  {15MR 18.3}
[15MR 18.4]          Letters came to me from some attending the Healdsburg College in regard to Brother E. J. W.'s ［Waggoner's］ teachings in regard to the two laws. I wrote immediately protesting against their doing contrary to the light which God had given us in regard to all differences of opinion, and I heard nothing in response to the letter. It may never have reached you. If you, my                                         -19-     brethren, had the experience that my husband and myself have had in regard to these known differences being published in articles in our papers, you would never have pursued the course you have, either in your ideas advanced before our students at the college, neither would it have appeared in the Signs. Especially at this time should everything like differences be repressed. These young men are more self-confident and less cautious than they should be. You must, as far as difference is concerned, be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Even if you are fully convinced that your ideas of doctrines are sound, you do not show wisdom that that difference should be made apparent.  {15MR 18.4}
[15MR 19.1]          I have no hesitancy in saying you have made a mistake here. You have departed from the positive directions God has given upon this matter, and only harm will be the result. This is not in God's order. You have now set the example for others to do as you have done, to feel at liberty to put in their various ideas and theories and bring them before the public, because you have done this. This will bring in a state of things that you have not dreamed of. I have wanted to get out articles in regard to the law, but I have been moving about so much, my writings are where I cannot have the advantage of them.  {15MR 19.1}
[15MR 19.2]          It is no small matter for you to come out in the Signs as you have done, and God has plainly revealed that such things should not be done. We must keep before the world a united front. Satan will triumph to see differences among Seventh-day Adventists. These questions are not vital                                         -20-     points. I have not read Elder Butler's pamphlet or any articles written by any of our writers and do not mean to. But I did see years ago that Elder ［J. H.］ Waggoner's views were not correct, and read to him matter which I had written. The matter does not lie clear and distinct in my mind yet. I cannot grasp the matter, and for this reason I am fully convinced that presenting it has been not only untimely, but deleterious.  {15MR 19.2}
[15MR 20.1]         Elder Butler has had such an amount of burdens he was not prepared to do this subject justice. Brother E. J. W. ［Waggoner］ has had his mind exercised on this subject, but to bring these differences into our general conferences is a mistake; it should not be done. There are those who do not go deep, who are not Bible students, who will take positions decidedly for or against, grasping at apparent evidence; yet it may not be truth, and to take differences into our conferences where the differences become widespread, thus sending forth all through the fields various ideas, one in opposition to the other, is not God's plan, but at once raises questionings, doubts whether we have the truth, whether after all we are not mistaken and in error.  {15MR 20.1}
[15MR 20.2]          The Reformation was greatly retarded by making prominent differences on some points of faith and each party holding tenaciously to those things where they differed. We shall see eye to eye erelong, but to become firm and consider it your duty to present your views in decided opposition to the faith or truth as it has been taught by us as a people, is a mistake, and will result in harm, and only harm, as in the days of Martin Luther. Begin to draw apart and feel at liberty to express your ideas without reference to                                           -21-     the views of your brethren, and a state of things will be introduced that you do not dream of.  {15MR 20.2}
[15MR 21.1]          My husband had some ideas on some points differing from the views taken by his brethren. I was shown that however true his views were, God did not call for him to put them in front before his brethren and create differences of ideas. While he might hold these views subordinate himself, once they are made public, minds would seize ［upon them］, and just because others believed differently would make these differences the whole burden of the message, and get up contention and variance.  {15MR 21.1}
[15MR 21.2]          There are the main pillars of our faith, subjects which are of vital interest, the Sabbath, the keeping of the commandments of God. Speculative ideas should not be agitated, for there are peculiar minds that love to get some point that others do not accept, and argue and attract everything to that one point, urging that point, magnifying that point, when it is really a matter which is not of vital importance, and will be understood differently. Twice I have been shown that everything of a character to cause our brethren to be diverted from the very points now essential for this time, should be kept in the background.  {15MR 21.2}
[15MR 21.3]          Christ did not reveal many things that were truth, because it would create a difference of opinion and get up disputations, but young men who have not passed through this experience we have had, would as soon have a brush as not. Nothing would suit them better than a sharp discussion.  {15MR 21.3}
[15MR 21.4]          If these things come into our conference, I would refuse to attend one of them; for I have had so much light upon the subject that I know that unconsecrated and unsanctified hearts would enjoy this kind of exercise. Too late in the day, brethren, too late in the day. We are in the great day                                         -22-     of atonement, a time when a man must be afflicting his soul, confessing his sins, humbling his heart before God, and getting ready for the great conflict. When these contentions come in before the people, they will think one has the argument, and then that another directly opposed has the argument. The poor people become confused and the conference will be a dead loss, worse than if they had had no conference. Now when everything is dissension and strife, there must be decided efforts to handle, ［to］ publish with pen and voice these things that will reveal only harmony.  {15MR 21.4}
[15MR 22.1]          Elder ［J. H.］ Waggoner has loved discussions and contention. I fear that E. J. W. ［Waggoner］ has cultivated a love for the same. We need now good, humble religion. E. J. W. ［Waggoner］ needs humility, meekness, and Brother Jones can be a power for good if he will constantly cultivate practical godliness, that he may teach this to the people.  {15MR 22.1}
[15MR 22.2]          But how do you think I feel to see our two leading papers in contention? I know how these papers came into existence. I know what God has said about them, that they are one, that no variance should be seen in these two instrumentalities of God. They are one and they must remain one, breathing the same spirit, exercised in the same work, to prepare a people to stand in the day of the Lord, one in faith, one in purpose.  {15MR 22.2}
[15MR 22.3]          The Sickle ［A MISSIONARY PAPER BRIEFLY PUBLISHED IN 1886.］ was started in Battle Creek, but it is not designed to take the place of the Signs, and I cannot see that it is really needed. The Signs of the Times is needed and will do that which the Sickle cannot. I know if the Signs is kept full of precious articles, food for the people, that every family should have it. But a pain comes to my heart every time I see the Sickle. I say it is not as God would have it. If Satan can get in dissension among us as a people, he will only be too glad.                                         -23-  {15MR 22.3}
[15MR 23.1]         I do not think that years will wipe out the impressions made at our last conference. I know how these things work. I am satisfied that we must have more of Jesus and less of self. If there is a difference upon any parts of the understanding of some particular passage of Scripture, then do not be with pen or voice making your differences apparent and making a breach when there is no need of this.  {15MR 23.1}
[15MR 23.2]         We are one in faith in the fundamental truths of God's word. And one object must be kept in view constantly, that is harmony and cooperation must be maintained without compromising one principle of truth. And while constantly digging for the truth as for hidden treasure, be careful how you open new and conflicting opinions. We have a worldwide message. The commandments of God and the testimonies of Jesus Christ are the burden of our work. To have unity and love for one another is the great work now to be carried on. There is danger of our ministers dwelling too much on doctrines, preaching altogether too many discourses on argumentative subjects when their own soul needs practical godliness.  {15MR 23.2}
[15MR 23.3]          There has been a door thrown open for variance and strife and contention and differences which none of you can see but God. His eyes traces the beginning to the end. And the magnitude of mischief God alone knows. The bitterness, the wrath, the resentment, the jealousies, the heart burnings provoked by controversies of both sides of the question causes the loss of many souls.  {15MR 23.3}
[15MR 23.4]          May the Lord give us to see the need of drinking from the living fountain of the water of life. Its pure streams will refresh and heal us and refresh all connected with us. Oh, if the hearts were only subdued by the Spirit of God! If the eye was single to God's glory, what a flood of                                         -24-     heavenly light would pour upon the soul. He who spake as never man spake was an educator upon earth. After His resurrection He was an educator to the lonely, disappointed disciples traveling to Emmaus, and to those assembled in the upper chamber. He opened to them the Scriptures concerning Himself and caused their hearts to be bound with a holy, new, and sacred hope and joy.  {15MR 23.4}
[15MR 24.1]          From the Holy of Holies, there goes on the grand work of instruction. The angels of God are communicating to men. Christ officiates in the sanctuary. We do not follow Him into the sanctuary as we should. Christ and angels work in the hearts of the children of men. The church above, united with the church below, is warring the good warfare upon the earth. There must be a purifying of the soul here upon the earth, in harmony with Christ's cleansing of the sanctuary in heaven. There we shall see more clearly as we are seen. We shall know as we are known.  {15MR 24.1}
[15MR 24.2]          It is a melancholy and dispiriting thing to observe how little effect the solemn truths relating to these last days have upon the minds and hearts of those who claim to believe the truth. They listen to the discourses preached, they seem to be deeply interested as they hang upon the lips of the speaker, and if his words are sublime they are delighted; tears flow as the love of Christ is the theme brought before them.  {15MR 24.2}
[15MR 24.3]          But with the close of the discourse the spell is broken. Enter the homes and you will be surprised to not hear one word that would lead you to think that a deep impression was made as the circumstances warranted in the presentation of such elevating things. It was exactly as if they had listened to some pleasant song or melody. It is done, and the impression gone like the morning dew before the sun.                                         -25-  {15MR 24.3}
[15MR 25.1]          What is the reason of this? The truth is not brought into the life. They did not accept the truth spoken as the word of God to them. They did not look past the instrument to the great Worker within the heavenly sanctuary. They did not take the word as a special message from God, of whom the speaker was only the one who was entrusted with the message. It is then any marvel that the truth is so powerless, that with a large number, if there is some excitement, a little animal ecstasy, a little head knowledge, the influence is no deeper?  {15MR 25.1}
[15MR 25.2]          There is altogether too much sermonizing. There is too little listening and hearing the voice of God, but hearing only the voice of man; and the hearers go to their homes with souls unnourished but empty as before, and prepared to sit in judgment upon the sermon, commenting upon it as they would upon a tragedy, reviewing the matter as a human effort. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Fill the mind with the great humiliation of Christ, and then contemplate His divine character, His majesty and glory of the Highest, and His disrobing Himself of these and clothing His divinity with humanity. Then we can see a self-denial, a self-sacrifice, that was the marvel of angels.  {15MR 25.2}
[15MR 25.3]          Oh, it was poverty indeed apportioned to the Son of God that He should be moving upon a province of His own empire and yet not be recognized or confessed by the nation He came to bless and to save. It was poverty that when He walked among men, scattering blessing as He trod, the anthem of praise floated not around Him, but the air was often freighted with curses and blasphemy. It was poverty that as He passed to and fro among the subjects He came to save, scarcely a solitary voice called Him blessed, scarcely a solitary hand was stretched out in friendship, and scarcely a                                          -26-     solitary roof proffered Him shelter. Then look beneath the disguise, and whom do we see?--Divinity, the Eternal Son of God, just as mighty, just as infinitely gifted with all the resources of power, and He was found in fashion as a man.  {15MR 25.3}
[15MR 26.1]          I wish that finite minds could see and sense the great love of the infinite God, His great self-denial, His self-sacrifice, in assuming humanity. God humbled Himself and became man and humbled Himself to die, and not only to die, but to die an ignominious death. Oh, that we might see the need of humility, of walking humbly with God, and guarding ourselves on every point.  {15MR 26.1}
[15MR 26.2]         I know that Satan's work will be to set brethren at variance. Were it not that I know ［that］ the Captain of our salvation stands at the helm to guide the gospel ship into the harbor, I should say, Let me rest in the grave.  {15MR 26.2}
[15MR 26.3]          Our Redeemer liveth to make intercession for us, and now if we will daily learn in the school of Christ, if we will cherish the lessons He will teach us in meekness and lowliness of heart, we shall have so large a measure of the Spirit of Jesus that self will not be interwoven into anything that we may do or say. The eye will be single to the glory of God. We need to make special efforts to answer the prayer of Christ that we may be one as He is one with the Father, He who declared Himself actually straitened while in the days of His humiliation because He had many things to say to His disciples which they could not bear now. The wonders of redemption are dwelt upon altogether too lightly.  {15MR 26.3}
[15MR 26.4]          We need these matters presented more fully and continuously in our discourses and in our papers. We need our own hearts to be deeply stirred                                           -27-     with these deep and saving truths. There is danger of keeping the discourses and the articles in the paper like Cain's offering, Christless.  {15MR 26.4}
[15MR 27.1]          Baptized with the Spirit of Jesus, there will be a love, a harmony, a meekness, a hiding of the self in Jesus that the wisdom of Christ will be given, the understanding enlightened; that which seems dark will be made clear. The faculties will be enlarged and sanctified. He can lead those He is fitting for translation to heaven to loftier heights of knowledge and broader views of truth. The reason that the Lord can do so little for those who are handling weighty truths is that so many hold these truths apart from their life. They hold them in unrighteousness. Their hands are not clean, their hearts are defiled with sin, and should the Lord work for them in the power of His Spirit corresponding with the magnitude of the truth which He has opened to the understanding, it would be as though the Lord sanctioned sin.  {15MR 27.1}
[15MR 27.2]          That which our people must have interwoven with their life and character is the unfolding of the plan of redemption, and more elevated conceptions of God and His holiness brought into the life. The washing of the robes of character in the blood of the Lamb is a work that we must attend to earnestly while every defect of character is to be put away. Thus are we working out our own salvation with fear and trembling. The Lord is working in us to will and to do of His good pleasure. We need Jesus abiding in the heart, a constant, living well-spring; then the streams flowing from the living fountain will be pure, sweet, and heavenly. Then the foretaste of heaven will be given to the humble in heart.                                           -28-  {15MR 27.2}
[15MR 28.1]          Truths connected with the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven will be talked of, written upon, more than now. There is to be closed every door that will lead to points of difference and debate among brethren. If the old man was purged from every heart, then there would be greater safety in discussion, but now the people need something of a different character. There is altogether too little of the love of Christ in the hearts of those who claim to believe the truth. While all their hopes are centered in Jesus Christ, while His Spirit pervades the soul, then there will be unity, although every idea may not be exactly the same on all points.  {15MR 28.1}
[15MR 28.2]          The Bible is but yet dimly understood. A life-long prayerful study of its sacred revealings will leave still much unexplained. It is the deep movings of the Spirit of God that is needed to operate upon the heart to mold character, to open the communication between God and the soul, before the deep truths will be unraveled. Man has to learn himself before God can do great things for him. The little knowledge imparted might be a hundredfold greater if the mind and character were balanced by the holy enlightenment of the Spirit of God. Altogether too little meekness and humility are brought into the work of searching for the truth as for hidden treasures, and if the truth were taught as it is in Jesus, there would be a hundredfold greater power, and it would be a converting power upon human hearts, but everything is so mingled with self that the wisdom from above cannot be imparted.--Letter 37, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 28.2}
[15MR 29.1]       MR No. 1142 - Physicians Are Reformers and Are to Follow Christ's Example; The Sabbath a Sign; The Importance Of Attention to Little Things               (Written April 22, 1899, at Hamilton, Newcastle, N.S.W.)          Yesterday Miss McEnterfer and Miss Maggie Hare accompanied me to Newcastle. This morning I arose at half past three, thankful for a night's rest. I slept well, for which I thank the Lord.  {15MR 29.1}
[15MR 29.2]          Traditions and customs have become so interwoven with the belief of the medical profession that physicians need to be taught the very first principles of the way of the Lord. The physician ministers to the body in healing, yet all the work is the Lord's. He must cooperate with the physicians, else there cannot be success.  {15MR 29.2}
[15MR 29.3]         Please read carefully the fifteenth chapter of Exodus. The Lord gave Moses a message of encouragement for the children of Israel. They did not deserve the good He had done and was doing for them, yet He made a covenant of mercy with them, saying, "If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee" ［verse 26］. Read also the seventh, eighth, and twenty-eighth chapters of Deuteronomy.  {15MR 29.3}
[15MR 29.4]         The Lord had a lesson to teach the children of Israel. The waters of Marah were an object lesson, representing the diseases brought upon human beings because of sin. It is no mystery that the inhabitants of the earth are suffering from disease of every stripe and type. It is because they                                           -30-     transgress the law of God. Thus did the children of Israel. They broke down the barriers which God in His providence had erected to preserve them from disease, that they might live in health and holiness, and so learn obedience in their journeyings through the wilderness. They journeyed under the special direction of Christ, who had given Himself as a sacrifice to preserve a people who would ever keep God in their remembrance, notwithstanding Satan's masterly temptations. Enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, it was Christ's desire to keep under His sheltering wing of preservation all who would do His will.  {15MR 29.4}
[15MR 30.1]          It was not by chance that in their journey the children of Israel came to Marah. Before they left Egypt the Lord began His lessons of instruction, that He might lead them to realize that He was their God, their Deliverer their Protector. They murmured against Moses and against God, but still the Lord sought to show them that He would relieve all their perplexities if they would look to Him. The evils they met and passed through were part of God's great plan, whereby He desired to prove them.  {15MR 30.1}
[15MR 30.2]          When they came to the waters of Marah, "the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink? And he cried unto the Lord; and the Lord showed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them, and said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee" ［verses 24-26］. Though invisible to human eyes,                                          -31-     God was the leader of the Israelites, their mighty Healer. He it was who put into the tree the properties which sweetened the waters. Thus He desired to show them that by His power He could cure the evils of the human heart.  {15MR 30.2}
[15MR 31.1]         Christ is the great Physician, not only of the body, but of the soul. He restores man to his God. God permitted His only begotten Son to be bruised, that healing properties might flow forth from Him to cure all our diseases. Physicians are to act in Christ's stead. Every physician who has planted his feet upon the Rock of Ages draws from the great Physician His restoring power. Christ's plans are to be carried out more definitely by the Christian physician.  {15MR 31.1}
[15MR 31.2]          As Christ was about to leave His disciples, those who were to represent Him to the world, He gave them a new commandment. "A new commandment I give unto you," He said, "That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another" ［John 13:34, 35］. That love they knew not until they saw the suffering and death of Jesus Christ upon the cross of Calvary. The new commandment of love was given in behalf of the weak, the wretched, the helpless.  {15MR 31.2}
[15MR 31.3]          To the heart of Christ the very presence of trouble was a call for help. The poor, the sick, the desolate, the outcasts, the discouraged, the desponding, found in Him a compassionate Saviour, a mighty Healer. "The broken reed will I not break, the smoking flax will I not quench, until I send forth judgment unto victory." Christ identifies His interest with those of suffering humanity, and He tells us that whatever we do to relieve a sufferer, we do for Him.                                          -32-  {15MR 31.3}
[15MR 32.1]          God has declared that it means much to discard the word of the living God, and accept the assertions of those who seek to change times and laws. ［Exodus 31:12-17, quoted.］  {15MR 32.1}
[15MR 32.2]          Those who in the face of these specifications refuse to repent of their transgressions will realize the result of disobedience. Individually we need to inquire, In observing a day of rest, have I drawn my faith from the Scriptures or from a spurious representation of truth? Every soul who fastens himself to the divine, everlasting covenant, made and presented to us as a sign and mark of God's government, fastens himself to the golden chain of obedience, every link of which is a promise. He shows that he regards God's word as above the word of man, God's love as preferable to the love of man. And those who repent of transgression, and return to their loyalty by accepting God's mark, show themselves to be true subjects, ready to do His will, to obey His commandments. True observance of the Sabbath is the sign of loyalty to God.  {15MR 32.2}
[15MR 32.3]          There are great lessons to be learned by all who minister for Christ. The Sabbath mark must be placed upon God's commandment-keeping people. The Sabbath, if kept in the spirit of true obedience, will show that all God's commandments are to be practiced, "that he may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you."  {15MR 32.3}
[15MR 32.4]          The Lord has His eye upon every human being, and He has His plans concerning each one. He would have His commandment-keeping people a distinguished people, who practice the holy precepts specified in His word. He would have the members of the medical profession expel from their practice everything which has been brought in by selfishness, avariciousness,                                          -33-     injustice. He has given wisdom and skill to physicians, and He designs that nothing savoring of robbery and injustice shall be practiced by those who make the law of Jehovah the rule of their life. By His own working agencies He has created material which will restore the sick to health.  {15MR 32.4}
[15MR 33.1]          If men would use aright the wisdom God has given them, this world would be a place resembling heaven. God has given them light, educating them and endowing them with capabilities and with ability to choose the path of holiness, the path of obedience to the divine requirements. But the transgression of Adam and Eve has been perpetuated from generation to generation. Men have chosen to follow the suggestions of Satan, instead of the directions of God, and they have become active workers in the enemy's service, making void the law binding upon every member of the human family. They have exalted Satan's principles above the principles which rule in the heavens. By working contrary to God's commandments they have united with the great deceiver, and have brought unrighteousness into the world. God has given men a Sabbath, ordained and founded by Himself, but they have changed the rest-day which God sanctified in Eden, which bears the mark of His government, placing in its stead a spurious sabbath, which bears the mark of the man of sin.  {15MR 33.1}
[15MR 33.2]         Sin is the transgression of the law, and God has stated plainly the penalty which must fall on those who abuse their freedom by choosing Satan's path of self-gratification. Is it not important that we know whether we bear the mark of God's government or the mark of the kingdom of rebellion? By observing a superior rest-day, we acknowledge ourselves subjects of the kingdom whose mark we bear. God's word is before us, and those who carefully                                          -34-     study it will see that they have made a mistake in accepting the first day of the week as the Sabbath.  {15MR 33.2}
[15MR 34.1]          We all need a far higher, purer, holier trust in God. Every physician should be true and honest. He is not in any case to defraud his patients. If he performs a simple operation, he is to charge a simple price. The charges made by other practicing physicians are not to be his criterion. The diseased bodies over which he works are God's property. He has said, "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." The exorbitant price charged by physicians in this country ［Australia］ when called upon to attend suffering humanity is robbery, fraud.  {15MR 34.1}
[15MR 34.2]          God gave physicians their wisdom and skill. It is not man who saves life; it is the great Restorer. But poor men are often charged for services they never received. Many physicians merely speak a few words to the suffering fellow-being they are called to visit, doing nothing to relieve his suffering, and then charge a large fee. This is dishonesty before God. They should go vigorously to work, as did the good Samaritan. God is not glorified as a Restorer when physicians demand such large sums for their services.  {15MR 34.2}
[15MR 34.3]          God calls for physicians who will make reforms in the methods of treating the sick. He calls for physicians who will cooperate with Him. He calls for righteous judgment among medical practitioners, who are acting in His stead. The physician who loves his brother as he loves himself will not charge exorbitant prices. A change must take place. It is just as essential that there be reform in medical lines as in other business lines.                                         -35-     There is grave overreaching in the charges made by lawyers and doctors. The Lord views all these things.  {15MR 34.3}
[15MR 35.1]          No tradition, custom, or practice condemned by God must be followed by the believing physician. He is God's servant, working in Christ's stead as His representative, and his work, his weights and measures, pass in review before God. The commandments of God must be the physician's standard. He must measure his daily life by the principles of the law.  {15MR 35.1}
[15MR 35.2]          Christ rebuked the Pharisees and doctors of the law because of the dishonest practices which they had brought into the temple courts. These men influenced the buyers and sellers to purchase cattle at the lowest prices, and then to sell them for a high price to those coming from a distance, who could not bring their offerings with them and were therefore compelled to buy them in Jerusalem. As these men sat at the table, counting the money they had gained by robbery and extortion, Christ stood before them. His eyes flashed with indignation as He saw the fraudulent transactions which were carried on. Picking up a scourge of small cords, which had been used to drive cattle to the temple, He drove out those who sold and bought, and overthrew the tables of the money changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, saying "It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves."  {15MR 35.2}
[15MR 35.3]          Then the Restorer practiced His medical missionary work. "The blind and the lame came to Him in the temple; and He healed them."  {15MR 35.3}
[15MR 35.4]          The marketplaces, the merchandise stores, need cleansing. Courts of justice, lawyers' offices, the medical fraternity, need purifying. Shall we say that the medical missionary work needs cleansing? Christ, who came to                                            -36-     our world to reveal the Father's heart of tender compassion, has shown us the methods which Sabbathkeepers are to follow in their work. These are plainly specified in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. God will not be a party to any dishonest transaction. The soul who keeps the Sabbath is stamped with the sign of God's government, and he must not dishonor this sign. By closely examining the Word of God, we may know whether we have the King's mark--whether we have been chosen and set apart to honor God. Please read Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Ezekiel 20:12-20.  {15MR 35.4}
[15MR 36.1]          Men have broken God's laws, and despised and trampled on His Sabbath. Thus they have broken their contract with God, and He cannot work in their behalf. The Lord tells us in words too plain to be misapprehended that that metal of the faith of His once chosen people is corrupted. They have a spurious faith. They have changed leaders, and no longer bear the King's sign. They cannot be trusted in time of test or trial, for they will act the traitor's part. They do not draw from the Lord's foundry.  {15MR 36.1}
[15MR 36.2]          God will never, never allow any man to pass through the pearly gates of the city of God who does not bear the signet of the faithful, His government mark. Every soul who is saved will cherish pure principles, which proceed from the very essence of truth. He must fasten himself by golden links to the everlasting power and love of the God of truth. He must be loyal to the principles of God's word, loyal to the everlasting covenant which is a sign between man and his Maker.  {15MR 36.2}
[15MR 36.3]          Righteousness, high and elevated, is to control the conduct. Strength of mind, learning, power of influence, will not give man his eternal life insurance papers. God weighs the action. Each must form an individual                                          -37-     character after the likeness of Christ. He must have a conscience taught of God. He must see behind every promise the All-powerful One, with whom he must work as an agent to do His will. If man will not take this position, he will make shipwreck of faith. God will never insure a man for everlasting life whose anchor is not securely fastened to heaven's unalterable law. He must reveal the Christ working in him, in his doctrinal precepts, in his practical obedience.  {15MR 36.3}
[15MR 37.1]          The soul that converses with God through the Scriptures, who prays for light and opens the door of his heart to the Saviour, will not have evil imaginings, worldly scheming, or ambitious lust after honor or distinction in any line. He who seeks for the truth as for hidden treasure will find it in God's means of communication with man, His word. David says, "The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding to the simple" ［Psalms 119:130］. This does not mean those who are weak in intellect, but those who, whatever their position, have a true sense of their need of conversing with God as did Enoch.  {15MR 37.1}
[15MR 37.2]          The word of God will ennoble the mind and sanctify the human agent, enabling him to become a co-worker with divine agencies. The elevated standard of God's holy law will mean very much to him, as a standard of all his life practice. It will mean holiness, which is wholeness to God. As the human agent presses forward in the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in, as he receives Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour, he will feed on the Bread of life. The Word is Spirit and life, and if it is brought into the daily practice it will ennoble the whole nature of man. There will be opened to his soul such a view of the Saviour's love as                                           -38-     portrayed by the pen of Inspiration that his heart will be melted into tenderness and contrition.  {15MR 37.2}
[15MR 38.1]          We are to see and understand the instruction given us by the great apostle, "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby," in perception, in likeness to the character of Christ. Development of character, growth in knowledge and wisdom, will be the sure result of feeding on the Word.  {15MR 38.1}
[15MR 38.2]          We present to all our workers, our ministers and physicians, the necessity of careful consideration in all their work, perfect and entire obedience to the precepts of the Word of God. Carefully inquire at every step, How would my Saviour act in this line of work? What impression will I leave upon the people? I mean to yoke up with Christ in the work as a restorer of health to the body, the mind, the heart, the soul. How careful should every physician be to represent the Master!  {15MR 38.2}
[15MR 38.3]         In this country the greatest fraud is practiced by the physician. He receives a call to go 25 miles. He steps into the ［railroad］ cars, and in one or two hours is at his post of duty. He comes in, looks at the patient, tells him to go to the hospital, or perhaps gives him a little liquid in a bottle, and for this charges the patient from five to ten pounds. This is extortion and robbery of the afflicted, and is directly opposed to the precepts of the law of God.  {15MR 38.3}
[15MR 38.4]          This physician could not have loved God supremely and his neighbor as himself. He buried principle, and in its place revealed selfishness and an avaricious spirit. The Lord cannot be pleased or His name exalted by any such practice. Every physician who has the sign of God is represented in Exodus 31:13, 17. These are a distinct and holy people unto the Lord.                                           -39-  {15MR 38.4}
[15MR 39.1]          We have come to a time when God's sacred work is represented by the feet of the image in which the iron was mixed with the miry clay. God has a people, a chosen people, whose discernment must be sanctified, who must not become unholy by laying upon the foundation wood, hay, and stubble. Every soul who is loyal to the commandments of God will see that the distinguishing feature of our faith is the seventh-day Sabbath. If the government would honor the Sabbath as God has commanded, it would stand in the strength of God and in defense of the faith once delivered to the saints. But statesmen will uphold the spurious sabbath, and will mingle their religious faith with the observance of this child of the papacy, placing it above the Sabbath which the Lord has sanctified and blessed, setting it apart for man to keep holy, as a sign between Him and His people to a thousand generations.  {15MR 39.1}
[15MR 39.2]          The mingling of churchcraft and statecraft is represented by the iron and the clay. This union is weakening all the power of the churches. This investing the church with the power of the state will bring evil results. Men have almost passed the point of God's forbearance. They have invested their strength in politics, and have united with the papacy. But the time will come when God will punish those who have made void His law, and their evil work will recoil upon themselves.  {15MR 39.2}
[15MR 39.3]          It is time for the people of God, those who wear the sign of His kingdom, and whose authority is derived from "It is written," to work. The world is the field of our labor, and we are to strive to give the last message of mercy to the world. Our every action is being watched with jealous eyes. Be on guard as physicians. You can serve the Lord in your position by working with new methods and discarding drugs.                                           -40-  {15MR 39.3}
[15MR 40.1]          As reformers we are to reform the medical practice by educating toward the light. Our work is to be done in the full recognition of God. We are to practice the strict principles of mercy and justice. Our work is not to be as a garment put together with basting threads. We must imitate God's perfection. "Ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building." We are to make the foundation of every building thorough and solid, as for eternity. Nothing must be done carelessly or shabbily. Do not put two timbers where there ought to be three.  {15MR 40.1}
[15MR 40.2]          Christ, the risen Saviour, possessed no haphazard habits. His work was not marred by disorder. He carefully folded the napkin that was about His head. Our work must be done just as we wish our character to appear. It is to be built so that it will stand the test of trial. The Lord help us to work solidly.  {15MR 40.2}
[15MR 40.3]          No one needs to spend sleepless moments in regard to his life insurance papers. His title deed as heir of God and joint-heir with Jesus Christ ［is］ to an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled and that fadeth not away. God is responsible for every soul who wears the sign of His government, who is loyal and true to the Sabbath, and through obedience to the Sabbath, true to every principle in the Decalogue. "He that keepeth My words, loveth Me," Christ said. Thus faith and works are combined, the inward working of the Holy Spirit and outward demonstration of practical godliness. The proof of heart-love is obedience to God's commandments. All who love God will study His words. They will eat His flesh and drink His blood, living and acting in constant submission to His will.  {15MR 40.3}
[15MR 40.4]          These words must be heeded. Medical missionary work means the eternal law of right in daily practice. ［Deuteronomy 10:1-5, quoted.］ God has preserved                                            -41-     His commandments, written the second time with His own finger. We are to understand and obey them. The promise of God are to be repeated again and again. Read the second chapter of Deuteronomy. Here are presented before us the blessings of obedience, the warnings against disobedience. We should have more to say on the subject of transgression and disobedience.  {15MR 40.4}
[15MR 41.1]          Build for eternity. Christ's lessons are before us. We are to do carefully, neatly, with exactitude whatever is to be done. We are to study economy in every line of work. Builders, gather up the fragments. Let nothing be lost. In all that there is to be done, in planting and building, imitate God's perfect ways.  {15MR 41.1}
[15MR 41.2]          Nurses and physicians, think of Jesus. How careful He was of the remnants of food left after feeding the five thousand. By His thoughtful care He would teach us order and economy. The great work of redemption weighed constantly upon His soul. As He was teaching and healing, all the energies of body and soul were taxed to the utmost, yet He noticed the most simple things in human life and in nature. His most instructive lessons were those in which He illustrated the kingdom of God by the simple things of nature.  {15MR 41.2}
[15MR 41.3]          He did not overlook the needs of the humblest of His servants. His ear heard every needy cry. He was awake to the touch of the afflicted woman in the crowd. His divine nature, combined with the human, was so finely wrought, that the least touch of faith brought a response. When He raised from the dead the daughter of Jairus, He turned to the parents and reminded them that she must have something to eat.  {15MR 41.3}
[15MR 41.4]          The little things become great in accordance with the attention given them. The one talent is not to be wrapped in a napkin and hidden in the                                            -42-     earth. Do what you can for the Master. "He that is faithful in that which is least" will be "faithful also in much." The Master will use every talent that we consecrate to Him. Your worth is determined by the faithfulness with which you do the little things. Everyone needs in the details of daily life to learn to build for time and for eternity. Then at last there will be written against his name in the books of heaven the most precious commendation, "Ye are complete in Him."--Manuscript 63, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985. Entire Manuscript.  {15MR 41.4}
[15MR 43.1]       MR No. 1143 - Under Most Circumstances, Children Should Be Part of the Home Firm While Attending School         (Written July 13, 1910, from Sanitarium, California, to Elder C. McReynolds.)  {15MR 43.1}
[15MR 43.2]          My attention has been called to a letter from you to W. C. White, in which you speak of some school problems which are perplexing you. It seems that some teachers think that none of the children and young people whose parents live in the vicinity of a school should have school privileges unless they live with their teachers in the school home. This is to me a new and strange idea.  {15MR 43.2}
[15MR 43.3]         There are young people whose home influences have been such that it would be greatly to their advantage to live for a time in a well regulated school home. And for those who live where they must of necessity leave their own homes in order to enjoy school privileges, the school homes are a great blessing. But the parental home where God is feared and obeyed, is, and ever should be, the best place for young children where, under the proper training of their parents, they may enjoy the care and discipline of a religious family, administered by their own parents.  {15MR 43.3}
[15MR 43.4]          The Lord has given children to their parents as a most solemn charge. The parents should watch over the souls of their children as those that must                                             -44-     give account. Fathers and mothers have a sacred responsibility so to train their children that they may meet them in the kingdom of God, and rejoice in their salvation.  {15MR 43.4}
[15MR 44.1]          The voice of prayer is to be heard in the home, and the children are to be instructed line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. The time is short. Parents must learn to practice patience in the intelligent training of their children.  {15MR 44.1}
[15MR 44.2]          Every father and mother is to be a laborer together with God. The parents and children form a family firm, and whenever possible they should be kept together. Let not parents allow words of scolding to spoil their influence. To belong to the family firm should be regarded as a sacred privilege. Let the children be patiently and kindly restrained from evil. This restraint, ministered with mercy and tenderness, exercised intelligently, will be a constant school for the children. There are different temperaments in the family, and it is often necessary to let patience have her perfect work. Children from such homes will be a blessing to the school.  {15MR 44.2}
[15MR 44.3]          Regarding the youth that are of suitable age to attend a boarding school, let us avoid making unnecessary and arbitrary rules that would separate from their parents those who live in the vicinity of our schools.  {15MR 44.3}
[15MR 44.4]          In many families the parents need the help that the children can render outside of school hours, and all who will do their work faithfully and attend the school during the allotted period should be allowed to have the benefits of the school without question. The father and mother should not be urged to relinquish their loving watchcare over their children.                                           -45-  {15MR 44.4}
[15MR 45.1]          Unless the parents are convinced that it would be for the best interests of their children to place them under the school home discipline, they should be permitted to keep them under their own control as far as possible. In some places parents living near the school may see that their children would be benefited by living at the school home, where they can receive certain lines of instruction that they could not receive so well at their own homes. But let it not be urged that children must in all cases be separated from their parents in order to get the advantages of any one of our schools.  {15MR 45.1}
[15MR 45.2]          To insist that in every case students shall leave their homes and be under the discipline of others is unnatural, and would create a condition of things that would not be healthful. May the Lord give wisdom to these teachers of whom you write that they may reason wisely from cause to effect. Parents are the natural guardians of their children, and they have a solemn responsibility to oversee their education and training.  {15MR 45.2}
[15MR 45.3]          Can we not understand that the parents, who have watched for years the development of their children, should know best the kind of training and management they should have in order to bring out and cultivate the best traits of character in them? I should advise that children from homes within two or three miles of a school should be allowed to attend the school while living at home and having the benefits of parental influences.  {15MR 45.3}
[15MR 45.4]          Wherever possible, let the family be held together. The elder members should relieve the mother as much as possible. Both boys and girls can lighten the burdens of the home. And the blessing that the children bring to the homelife is of the highest value. Each member is to come close to                                         -46-     Christ in practicing self-denial and self-sacrifice. Each may be a help and blessing to every other, if all will act out the principles of the heavenly family.  {15MR 45.4}
[15MR 46.1]          Let all seek in the home, in the schoolroom, on the playground, to be laborers together with God. The highest education possible is to excel in right doing. All should strive together to make the school a success. Let old and young be diligent. Let all, teachers, and students, do their best to make the home and the school a sanctified whole. Let us strive so to conduct our schools that they may meet the requirements of Jesus Christ, who gave His precious life as a gift to the world. Let teachers and students guard themselves in word and action and in spirit. Let it be seen that all who compose the school are seeking to the utmost of their ability to improve, as mortals who appreciate what Jesus Christ has done in their behalf. He has cleared the way that through His grace there may be victory.  {15MR 46.1}
[15MR 46.2]          May the members of the school of which you write gain for themselves the crown of glory when the reward is given to those who overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.--Letter 60, 1910.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 46.2}
[15MR 47.1]       MR No. 1144 - Care To Be Exercised in Making Changes in Textbooks and Other Matters in School; Helping Inexperienced Teachers         (Written August 1, 1899, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., to S. N. Haskell.)  {15MR 47.1}
[15MR 47.2]          Again last night I was speaking with you in regard to the textbooks in our schools. I was commissioned to give you a warning. Do not, as you shall meet our schools in California and other places, present to them the ideas that look so clear and plain to you in reference to the textbooks in our schools. They are not prepared for this, and already confusion is working and will work with reference to this point. There are many things to be considered in regard to this matter. There must be no introduction of anything which will sanction Brother Sutherland pushing things to extremes.  {15MR 47.2}
[15MR 47.3]         The young lady, Miss Ellis, may be hurt, and is already hurt, so that she will not be of the use in the cause of God that she might have been, but will do superficial work if the classwork under her care is carried forward in accordance with the methods which are now advancing. Had this young woman been left to come out without being exalted and made to think that she was some superior being, she would, in walking humbly with God, have been willing to be instructed. But she is working superficially. Less harm will be done by using the simple books which have been used in our schools than by taking them away altogether, as is according to her ideas. Reading books will have to be made by selecting portions of Bible history. The Lord of the gospel is satisfied when the great end is achieved.                                         -48-  {15MR 47.3}
[15MR 48.1]          What are the attributes most prized in man by a crucified, risen, and ascended Saviour? Meekness, and lowliness of heart, which He declares those whom He calls shall learn of Him. If we would teach, we must be learners. If we would meet the highest standard, we must love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves. Everyone who has purity and love is born of God and knoweth God.  {15MR 48.1}
[15MR 48.2]          I have had presented before me Brother Sutherland's danger in hearing the testimonies and your lessons upon teaching the Bible alone and listening to the voice of nature, which teaches beautiful lessons. If we follow on to know the Lord, we shall see things more clearly than we discern them now. But neither teachers nor students are prepared to make rapid changes. We need the baptism of the Holy Spirit, else minds will misinterpret the subjects and handle them in such a way as to bring confusion rather than light. As you shall go into the study of opening the Scriptures to the schools, do not introduce the matter of simple books being discarded. It will do harm to the uninformed, who, half catching at things, and supposing they know it all, yet utterly unable as teachers to understand the matter in all its bearings, will advance theories which one and another will grasp at but will not understand. Brother Sutherland is making a mistake. Please be guarded. The subjects you have long studied will in Brother Sutherland's hand be carried to extremes, and in the present state of things this will result in matters which we cannot handle or adjust.  {15MR 48.2}
[15MR 48.3]          Brother Sutherland has caught up the idea that there must be many church schools built; but this would mean the misappropriation of means that are called for to open new fields for the ministry of the Word. Wherever                                         -49-     there is a settled church, a small building should be erected as a church school. In whatever locality a meeting-house is erected, let a schoolroom be prepared for that locality, and let teachers of good ability work in instructing the students. But there must be no catching up without discretion, of rays of light, beautiful light, mixing with it erroneous matters, and calling it truth, which each supposes he can prove from the testimonies. I am afraid to write out many things which are exceedingly precious. I am afraid to introduce them.  {15MR 48.3}
[15MR 49.1]          In the providence of God this Sister Ellis, who I believe is a jewel, may be properly taught. But as the matter stands, she has been praised and petted, and set to do a work which she cannot do. It seems like the representation of the gospel wagon scheme. The aftersight reveals a work which in her case, if properly handled, would be a good and beneficial work. Why cannot our people study from cause to effect? Why cannot they understand that the greatest wisdom is needed in establishing church schools on an entirely new plan? This undertaking means more than they can properly comprehend.  {15MR 49.1}
[15MR 49.2]          I write you now, my brother, that you may be cautious. Do not state anything I have told you personally in regard to the matter of change in books. I know that Brother Sutherland needs to put on the brake, and move no faster than the Lord has designated. He has obtained ideas from your writings and mine in reference to schools and the changes he is making in what they call textbooks. They will move faster at this time than the people can be carried. Such changes cannot be made intelligently unless those making them have a clearly defined basis on which to construct their                                        -50-     building. All the haphazard movements which they will make in the schoolwork will be proved, as they suppose, from that which Sister White has said. But when they mix and mingle their own ideas as to what can be done, and there is no definite plan of work, the workers will weave in a mass of suppositions, and call it that which Sister White has been shown of God.  {15MR 49.2}
[15MR 50.1]          Brother Haskell, please let us both be guarded. Do not let us dwell on the changes to be made until we have something definite to work to. I fear that fanaticism will be brought in. The beautiful theories and suppositions that can be dwelt upon might better be left unsaid until there is something clearly defined, until all can see and understand for themselves.  {15MR 50.1}
[15MR 50.2]          You could not possibly work out the changes that could safely be made at this period, when there is need of great reformation in many lines, need of the transformation of the Spirit of God upon men's characters. Move solidly. You may give expression to the thoughts you have in mind, and others will take up these ideas, and attempt to bring in a new order of things, and make an entirely different structure, and call it your or my plan. They cannot see the aftereffect of the working out of ideas which have been taken into the mind but not clearly discerned. They endeavor to carry them out, mixing with them Sister White's testimonies, and they make the work that should be kept sacred a common matter. Descending to the little things and definiteness which some have brought in in regard to education, leads away from the things the Lord would have carried out.  {15MR 50.2}
[15MR 50.3]          Sister Ellis has been set to work in a way which she supposes is right, but one who has so short an experience should not be entrusted with the work of putting before the minds of students problems they know not themselves                                            -51-     how to solve. The present inaccurate phases of supposed reforms will bring into the ranks of Sabbathkeepers a state of things that will make confusion in educational lines. I see no call to take church schools over grounds that are entirely new, according to the methods and plans that the minds of uninformed teachers would inaugurate. If changes are to be made, we must know what counsel to give and what changes to make, and how to present every line of work intelligently. Decided changes are to be made in every one of our churches in America, but everything cannot be introduced now. The working of the Holy Spirit must be seen, and this Spirit is not to be controlled by any human plans or methods. There are plans to be established in every church. God will work Himself, and men must cooperate.  {15MR 50.3}
[15MR 51.1]          The primary classes may keep the same books without disturbance until better books are prepared. The Bible lessons should be given in clear, definite simplicity, so that the minds of the students can grasp them. Until the new methods are understood, let not the present methods be all broken up before better ones are prepared with great care. Let not things be presented to the children which they cannot understand. The light given me is, Move cautiously at every step. Do not bring in the many things that may be said upon nature as a lessonbook until small books are prepared on this subject which may be presented as textbooks. This work has not yet been done, and until it is done, the minds of the children will only become confused by the fragmentary items being brought in, which may be all truth.  {15MR 51.1}
[15MR 51.2]          In regard to state schools, I know not what our brethren mean. If any such thing as state schools has come into my testimonies, I am in darkness as to how it came in. The subject of state schools as they now exist may be                                            -52-     mentioned, but to create state schools is the farthest from any movement that should be made.  {15MR 51.2}
[15MR 52.1]          Altogether too large sums of money have been invested in the school building at Battle Creek, and too little wisdom and brain power has been brought into the practical methods to stop the increasing indebtedness of each year. It would have been far better to have closed the school until it should become a science how to conduct the schools in different localities on a paying system. When one year after another passes, and there is no sign of diminishing the debt, but it is rather increased, a halt should be called. Let the managers say, I refuse to run the school any longer unless some sure basis is devised.  {15MR 52.1}
[15MR 52.2]          The very highest kind of education you could give is to shun debt as you would shun disease. For Christ's sake, as the chosen people of God, call yourselves to task, and inaugurate a different system in the school. This is to be your education as churches in every place. As church schools have been established, the best education the people of God can have is to learn how to conduct their school on a basis of financial success. If this cannot be done, close the school until a plan can be devised to carry it on, with the help of God, without the blot of debt upon it.  {15MR 52.2}
[15MR 52.3]          This can be done, and should be done. The Lord is not pleased with the kind of management that has been revealed in the past, for it reveals a lack of judgment. Let teachers take less wages, and let the students' fees be raised. Let the strictest economy be practiced in the provisions made for the table. Let the one who has charge of the cooking gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost. In families there is often great waste in                                            -53-     throwing into the wastepail a large amount of food that could be worked into palatable dishes. There is enough wasted here and there in different places to support one or two families. These are lessons that need to be studied carefully, and practiced diligently and conscientiously.  {15MR 52.3}
[15MR 53.1]          The students should have plenty of good wholesome food. The fruit should be fresh and palatable, and free from decay. But as to the many dishes for dessert for which we have recipes, I have no light in regard to them except that they should not be made. We want decided reforms among reformers. We feel the necessity of this matter most deeply. But I am not as well as usual, and will write more fully at another time, if the Lord will give me strength and freedom.--Letter 104, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 53.1}
[15MR 54.1]       MR No. 1145 - Productivity of the Soil at Avondale; Workers for God Must Be Thoroughly Converted and Be One With Christ         (Written October 22, 1907, from Sanitarium, California, to "Dear Children Edson and Emma" ［Elder and Mrs. J. E. White］.)  {15MR 54.1}
[15MR 54.2]          I received your letter giving the particulars regarding your grounds and the cultivation of certain lines of fruit. While we were in Australia, we adopted the very plan you speak of--digging deep trenches and filling them in with dressing that would create good soil. This we did in the  cultivation of tomatoes, oranges, lemons, peaches, and grapes.  {15MR 54.2}
[15MR 54.3]         The man of whom we purchased our peach trees told me that he would be pleased to have me observe the way they were planted. I then asked him to let me show him how it had been represented in the night season that they should be planted. I ordered my hired man to dig a deep cavity in the ground, then put in rich dirt, then stones, then rich dirt. After this he put in layers of earth and dressing until the hole was filled. I told the nurseryman that I had planted in this way in the rocky soil in America. I invited him to visit me when these fruits should be ripe. He said to me, "You need no lesson from me to teach you how to plant the trees."  {15MR 54.3}
[15MR 54.4]          Our crops were very successful. The peaches were the most beautiful in coloring, and the most delicious in flavor of any that I had tasted. We grew the large yellow Crawford and other varieties, grapes, apricots, nectarines, and plums.                                           -55-  {15MR 54.4}
[15MR 55.1]          A member of parliament who came to Cooranbong occasionally, and who had purchased the house in which we first lived in Cooranbong, visited our garden and orchard, and was greatly pleased with it. Several times we filled a large basket with fruit and took it to him and his wife at their home, and they were profuse in their thanks. After this they would always recognize us on the cars, and speak of the great treat they had had in the fruit from our orchard. When they would visit us at our farm, they were always at liberty to eat all they wanted from the garden, and usually carried away a basket of fruit to their home.  {15MR 55.1}
[15MR 55.2]          These favors brought us returns in several ways. Mention was made in the papers of the work being done by the students on the Avondale estate. And years afterward, when the terrible drought came, and the cattle were dying for want of pasture and food, the papers spoke of the wonderful exception to the drought to be found on the Avondale tract of land. They compared it to an oasis in the desert. Our crops were not cut off, and the farm flourished remarkably, notwithstanding the lack of rain.  {15MR 55.2}
[15MR 55.3]          When we were investigating the land at Cooranbong, our brethren held off from purchasing for a whole year, thinking to find in some other locality land that would compare well with the rich soil of Iowa. This they finally decided could not be found. But the work was hindered for a whole year because some of the brethren had not the faith to move forward in spite of the discouraging appearances.  {15MR 55.3}
[15MR 55.4]          In the night season a representation had been given me that revealed this lack of faith. I seemed to be on the Avondale land, and while the horses were breaking away through the forest, I walked in an open space                                          -56-     close to where our school buildings now stand. I saw a furrow made in the soil one foot deep and about four in length. Two of the brethren stood at the furrow, one at each end; they were examining the soil, and declaring it to be of no value. But one stood by who said, "You have misjudged the worth of this land." He then explained the value of the different strata in the soil and their uses.  {15MR 55.4}
[15MR 56.1]          When we came to Avondale to examine the estate, I went with the brethren to the tract of land. After a time we came to the place I had dreamed of, and there was the furrow that I had seen. The brethren looked at it in surprise. How had it come there, they asked. Then I told them the dream that I had had. "Well," they replied, "you can see that the soil is not good." "That," I answered, "was the testimony borne by the men in my dream, and that was given as the reason why we should not occupy the land. But one stood upon the upturned furrow, and said, 'False testimony has been borne concerning this soil. God can furnish a table in the wilderness.'"  {15MR 56.1}
[15MR 56.2]          The fifteen hundred acres were purchased. The marshland had to have considerable attention in order to drain off the water. But when this was done, even this part was found to be valuable. The crops that the land yielded proved the truth of the words of the Messenger. But the lack of faith that was manifested in taking up the work cost us the loss of time and means.  {15MR 56.2}
[15MR 56.3]          The Lord knows what is best for His work. That which was, as it were, a hiding place in the wilderness has proved to be a profitable tract of land. And we have learned that if we would have a rich experience in our Christian life, we must let the Lord direct.                                           -57-  {15MR 56.3}
[15MR 57.1]          Well, all this is in the past. It is seven years since we returned to America.  {15MR 57.1}
[15MR 57.2]          I know that all who would have success in the work must tarry long with God. The story is told of an old Lancashire woman who was listening to the reasons that her neighbors gave for their minister's success. They spoke of his gifts, of his style of address, of his manners. "Nay," said the old woman, "I will tell you what it is. Your man is very thick with the Almighty."  {15MR 57.2}
[15MR 57.3]          We need to keep our eye single to the glory of God. Our fitness for His service will be found in constant communion with Him. God's messengers must tarry long with God if they would have success. When men consecrate themselves to God, the power which comes alone from God will bring them definite results in their work. We are to act as in the presence of God; His eye is ever upon us; His arm is guiding us. We must die to self before God can use us to His name's glory. If we will learn of Christ as His little children, we shall make a success wherever we are.  {15MR 57.3}
[15MR 57.4]          The workers in our publishing houses need to have their intellects converted. The physicians and nurses in our sanitariums need to experience the daily converting power of God. Our ministers need to know that Christ is an indwelling presence with them. Some of our workers have cherished their inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong, and this has led them to try to bear rule over one another. Repentance and daily conversion from wrongdoing is not a part of their experience. These souls are as verily the enemies of Christ as are those who have never yielded themselves to Him.  {15MR 57.4}
[15MR 57.5]          The testimony comes to such: ［Romans 12:1-13, quoted］.                                        -58-  {15MR 57.5}
[15MR 58.1]          This chapter is full of cautions and exhortations. Let us study it prayerfully that we may understand what are the gifts to the church which make it the light of the world.  {15MR 58.1}
[15MR 58.2]          We are to walk and work in a spirit of humility and in self-control. One is our Master, even Christ. The history of the past, in which man has been led to seek the guidance of the human mind, is not to be repeated. There are those who suppose that they are set to guard the actions of their brethren and sisters, and if these souls step out of the line that they have marked out, they think that they must put on the restricting line. Oh, what a farce this is! Such a course is not after God's order. He invites, "In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." Let no human agency seek to outline the duty of his fellows, or to force his opinions upon another, lest he get in the way of the Lord's counsel.  {15MR 58.2}
[15MR 58.3]          The workers need to study the life of Christ until they give themselves unreservedly to Him. "It is the Spirit that quickeneth," He said, "the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." Those who practice the words of Christ become one with Christ. Their lives represent the pure principles of the word in simplicity and meekness.  {15MR 58.3}
[15MR 58.4]          The apostle Paul declared: ［1 Corinthians 2:1-10, quoted］.--Letter 350, 1907, pp. 1-7.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 2, 1985.  {15MR 58.4}
[15MR 59.1]       MR No. 1146 - Public Evangelism To Be Conducted by Team of Two Ministers         (Written September 14, 1905, from Sanitarium, National City, California, to the executive committee of the Southern California Conference.)  {15MR 59.1}
[15MR 59.2]          I am instructed to say that where an effort is made to open the gospel work in a new field, there should be not less than two speakers to labor together in the ministry. When Christ sent forth His disciples on their missionary tour, He sent them out two by two. This is the Lord's plan.  {15MR 59.2}
[15MR 59.3]          In opening up the work in San Diego, Elder Simpson should not be left to stand alone. There should be associated with him someone who is fitted to share these responsibilities. Elder Owen should be freed from other work that he may unite with Elder Simpson in presenting the truth to the people of San Diego.  {15MR 59.3}
[15MR 59.4]          That this may be accomplished, another Bible teacher must be selected for the school at Fernando. But it will be easier to find a suitable Bible teacher than to secure the services of one who has the wisdom and tact necessary to deal with an interest in the important city of San Diego. I ask you to unite in an effort to make such changes that Elder Owen may be released from the school work, to unite with Elder Simpson.  {15MR 59.4}
[15MR 59.5]          Elder Healey may consider that he is fitted to share this burden with Elder Simpson. But this would be a mistake. Elder Healey has neither the necessary physical strength nor the tact and ingenuity that should be manifested by those who are engaged in a large public effort.                                           -60-  {15MR 59.5}
[15MR 60.1]          The Lord designs that His work shall be carried solidly. To enter a new field involves large expense. But the extra expense of a second man to help Brother Simpson will be an investment that will bring returns. I feel to urge this matter because so much is at stake. I pray the Lord to impress your minds to carry out His will.  {15MR 60.1}
[15MR 60.2]          I will now leave the matter with you, but I cannot free myself from the conviction that it is God's will that Elder Owen and Elder Simpson shall unite in the important work that is to be undertaken in San Diego. I entreat of you to secure someone else to give instruction in Bible at Fernando, that Elder Owen may be free to unite with Elder Simpson.--Letter 261, 1905.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 6, 1986. Entire Letter  {15MR 60.2}
[15MR 61.1]       MR No. 1147 - More Ministers Needed Who Have the Ability to Serve as Evangelists         (Written August 13, 1905, from Los Angeles, California, to W. C. White.)          One important day of our meeting is ended. This first Sabbath of the gathering has been well improved. Successful meetings have been held. In the forenoon Elder Corliss spoke, his talk being followed by a revival service. Many came forward for prayer, among them being several who gave their hearts to the Lord for the first time.  {15MR 61.1}
[15MR 61.2]          At 4:30 I stood before a large company. Elder Simpson said there were at least 2000 people present. The tent was crowded to its utmost capacity, and even then not all could find seats. It is difficult for some of the speakers to make themselves heard by so large a crowd, but the Lord gave me strength to speak so that all could hear. I spoke with great freedom for about an hour.  {15MR 61.2}
[15MR 61.3]          After coming home and taking a bath, I had an interview with Elder Simpson. He has just completed his third tent effort in the city of Los Angeles. As a result of his meetings in this city more than 200 have taken their stand for the truth. About 100 have been baptized, who accepted the truth during the last series of meetings. Others are trying so to adjust their business that they can keep the Sabbath.                                        -62-  {15MR 61.3}
[15MR 62.1]          Considerable money has been expended in the tent effort in Los Angeles, but the collections in the meetings and liberal donations from the public have been sufficient to meet the expenses. One man, who has not yet taken his stand with us, gave $100 to Elder Simpson to help him continue his work. A few days ago a sister who died in San Diego left her property. Among other enterprises, she remembered the Paradise Valley Sanitarium and our work in the southern States, leaving $1,000 to each. She also gave $200 to Elder Simpson to help him in opening up work in the city of San Diego.  {15MR 62.1}
[15MR 62.2]          Elder Simpson pleads for someone to unite with him in his work. Elder Owen has been a great help to him here, but Elder Owen is appointed to act as Bible teacher in the Fernando school, and there seems to be no one else who can help Brother Simpson in his line of work. There are devoted men who can teach the Bible in the school, but there are very few who can work as Elder Owen can in evangelistic work in the cities. Someone else should be chosen to help in the college, that Elder Owen may be free to unite with Elder Simpson in evangelistic work in the large cities.  {15MR 62.2}
[15MR 62.3]          I am sad to see so few laborers. As Jesus saw what might be accomplished by intelligent effort, He said, "Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields, for they are white already to harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labor: other men labored, and ye are entered into their labors."                                        -63-  {15MR 62.3}
[15MR 63.1]          We greatly need men who can both sow and reap, who can gather souls unto eternal life. I am glad to see that Elder Simpson is of good courage. Oh, that the church members who have been long in the truth would feel such a burden for souls that, as Elder Simpson leaves Los Angeles, they might continue a work that would gather in a harvest of souls. Workers are greatly needed just now in Los Angeles. I pray for men who can continue the work with those who are interested. After working for a time in San Diego, I think Elder Simpson will be ready to go to Redlands and Riverside.  {15MR 63.1}
[15MR 63.2]          I thank the Lord most heartily for the sanitarium in Loma Linda. This is in the order of God. I greatly desire that earnest work may soon be done in Redlands and Riverside. I believe that the purchase of Loma Linda by our people will open the way for a good work to be accomplished in these cities.  {15MR 63.2}
[15MR 63.3]          Brother Simpson feels that it is not best for one or two men to continue their labors for too long a time in the same place, going over and over again the same lines in presenting the Scriptures. New talent should be brought into Los Angeles, while those who have worked here so long go to new fields. This is wisdom.  {15MR 63.3}
[15MR 63.4]          The mornings here have been rather foggy. Friday morning it did not clear off till nearly noon. This morning there was not so much fog.  {15MR 63.4}
[15MR 63.5]          On Friday I had an interview with Sister Williams. She and Mabel could not both be spared from the sanitarium at the same time. Sitting for a long time in meeting seems to make Mabel feel tired and nervous, so Mabel insisted that Sister Williams come to the camp meeting while she carried on the work at the sanitarium. I know that were I in Mabel's place I should have felt the same as she did. Sister Williams told me that she would write to                                        -64-     Dr. Whitelock, and that if I desired, Mabel might come to Los Angeles for a few days.  {15MR 63.5}
[15MR 64.1]          Doctor Whitelock highly appreciates Mabel's ability as a nurse, and he does not wish to see her taken from the work. She seems to know by intuition just what ought to be done.  {15MR 64.1}
[15MR 64.2]          Brother Ballenger came from San Diego late on Friday, but I have not seen him as yet. Nora Lacey has been in for a few minutes once or twice, and today I expect to see Elder Burden and Brother Ballenger.  {15MR 64.2}
[15MR 64.3]          I feel very thankful to my heavenly Father for the freedom I had yesterday afternoon before so large a company of people. This afternoon, I expect to speak again.  {15MR 64.3}
[15MR 64.4]          I will not write more to you, for I suppose you will soon be with us. We shall all be glad to see you. May the Lord preserve and bless you. Love to May and the children.--Letter 241a, 1905.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 6, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 64.4}
[15MR 65.1]       MR No. 1148 - Ellen G. White and the Apocrypha         ［A STATEMENT PREPARED BY ARTHUR L. WHITE IN 1969 AND NOW REQUESTED FOR CLASSROOM USE BY RON JOLLIFF, RELIGION TEACHER AT SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST COLLEGE. THE PARAGRAPH FROM MANUSCRIPT 4, 1850, HAS NOT HERETOFORE BEEN RELEASED.--R. W. OLSON.］  {15MR 65.1}
[15MR 65.2]          WHILE ELLEN G. WHITE IS NOT KNOWN TO HAVE QUOTED FROM THE APOCRYPHA THERE IS SOME DOCUMENTATION OF THE EARLY YEARS WHICH MAY BE OF INTEREST IN CONNECTION WITH A STUDY OF HER RELATIONSHIP TO IT. JAMES WHITE, IN HIS PAMPHLET, A WORD TO THE LITTLE FLOCK, IN HIS FIRST ARTICLE ENTITLED "THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES" INCLUDES TWO REFERENCES TO THE APOCRYPHA.  {15MR 65.2}
[15MR 65.3]          PAGE 2: "THE SEED IS ROTTEN UNDER THEIR CLODS, THE GARNERS ARE       LAID DESOLATE, THE BARNS ARE BROKEN DOWN, FOR THE CORN IS       WITHERED."--SEE JOEL 1:15-18; JEREMIAH 30:23, 24; DANIEL 12:1; HABAKKUK 3:12, 13; ZEPHANIAH 1:17, 18; 2:10-13.  {15MR 65.3}
[15MR 65.4]         PAGE 3: "I WILL BRING THEM (THE SAINTS) WITH A MIGHTY HAND AND A       STRETCHED-OUT ARM, AND SMITE EGYPT WITH PLAGUES AS BEFORE," ETC.      --2 ESDRAS 15:11.  {15MR 65.4}
[15MR 65.5]         AS HE FURNISHED SCRIPTURE REFERENCES TO TWO ELLEN G. WHITE VISIONS, INCORPORATED IN A WORD TO THE LITTLE FLOCK, HE ALSO INCORPORATED SOME REFERENCES TO THE APOCRYPHA. HIS EXPLANATION WHICH PRECEDES THE PUBLICATION OF THE FIRST VISION STATES:  {15MR 65.5}
[15MR 65.6]               "THE FOLLOWING VISION WAS PUBLISHED IN THE DAY STAR,        MORE THAN A YEAR AGO. BY THE REQUEST OF FRIENDS, IT IS RE-PUBLISHED        IN THIS LITTLE WORK, WITH SCRIPTURE REFERENCES, FOR THE BENEFIT        OF THE LITTLE FLOCK."--A WORD TO THE        LITTLE FLOCK, P. 13  {15MR 65.6}
[15MR 65.7]          AT THE BOTTOM OF PAGES 15 AND 17 THERE ARE REFERENCES KEYED TO THE E. G. WHITE TEXT, ONE REFERENCE TO 2 ESDRAS 2:43, (P. 15) AND THE OTHER TO 2 ESDRAS 2:19, (P. 17).                                         -66-  {15MR 65.7}
[15MR 66.1]          IT IS CLEAR THAT JAMES WHITE SAW SOME SIMILARITIES BETWEEN WHAT ELLEN WHITE WROTE AND SOME THINGS HE HAD READ IN ESDRAS, AND SO USED THESE REFERENCES AS HE DID SCRIPTURE REFERENCES WHICH HE SAYS HE SUPPLIED.  {15MR 66.1}
[15MR 66.2]                                    THE HIDDEN BOOK          IN A REPORT SIGNED BY THREE EARLY BELIEVERS REFERENCE IS MADE TO THE HIDDEN BOOK AS ELLEN WHITE UTTERED CERTAIN WORDS IN VISION. HERE IS THE ACCOUNT:  {15MR 66.2}
[15MR 66.3]                 "AT ANOTHER TIME AT A MEETING HELD AT BROTHER CURTIS'        IN TOPSHAM, MAINE, SHE WAS TAKEN OFF IN VISION, AND AROSE TO        HER FEET, TOOK THE LARGE FAMILY BIBLE FROM THE TABLE, AND HELD        IT ON HER HAND SOME TIME AT AN ANGLE OF FORTY-FIVE DEGREES, AND        SAID THE HIDDEN BOOK WAS NOT THERE. WHEN SOME ONE ASKED IF THE        APOCRYPHA WAS NOT IN THE BIBLE, BROTHER CURTIS REMARKED IT WAS        NOT. SHE TALKED SOMETIME ABOUT THE HIDDEN BOOK. NO ONE KNEW        BUT BRO. CURTIS FAMILY THAT THE APOCRAPHA ［APOCRYPHA］ WAS NOT THERE.                                                    MRS. S. HOWLAND                                                REBECCA HOWLAND WINSLOW                                                FRANCES HOWLAND LUNT"  {15MR 66.3}
[15MR 66.4]          IN THE REPORT OF A VISION GIVEN TO ELLEN WHITE AT OSWEGO, NEW YORK ON JANUARY 11, 1850, AND CARRYING A COPYING DATE OF JANUARY 28, 1850, ELLEN WHITE MAKES A REFERENCE TO THE HIDDEN BOOK. HER DESCRIPTION OF WHAT WAS SHOWN TO HER IN THE VISION CONTAINS MANY ITEMS AND AS ON FILE COMPRISES FOUR AND A QUARTER TYPE-WRITTEN PAGES. NEAR THE CLOSE OF HER STATEMENT WE FIND THESE WORDS:  {15MR 66.4}
[15MR 66.5]              "All, all who keep the commandments of God, will enter in        through the gates into the city and have right to the tree of        life and ever be in the presence of that lovely Jesus whose        countenance shines brighter than the sun at noon day. I then        saw the word of God pure and unadulterated, and that we must        answer for the way we received the truth proclaimed from that        word. I saw that it had been a hammer to break the flinty        heart in pieces, and a fire to consume the dross and tin, that        the heart might be pure and holy. I saw that the Apocrypha was        the hidden book, and that the wise of these last days should        understand it. I saw that the Bible was the standard book, that        will judge us at the last day. I saw that heaven would be cheap        enough, and that nothing was too dear to sacrifice for Jesus,        and that we must give all to enter the kingdom."--Manuscript 4,        1850, (A copy of E. G. White's Vision which she had at Oswego, N.Y.)                                       -67-     ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS REFERENCE IS MADE TO THE APOCRYPHA IN ARTICLES IN THE REVIEW AND HERALD. THESE ARE OF INTEREST, AND COPY OF THE MATERIALS IS ATTACHED.  {15MR 66.5}
[15MR 67.1]         THE FULL MEANING AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE E. G. WHITE STATEMENT OF 1850 IS NOT CLEARLY SEEN. IT SHOULD BE OBSERVED THAT ELLEN WHITE MAKES NO REFERENCE TO THE APOCRYPHA AT ANY TIME IN HER WRITINGS IN THE SUBSEQUENT 65 YEARS. IF WHAT WE HAVE IS A CORRECT COPY OF WHAT SHE WROTE, AND AT TIMES THERE IS SOME UNCERTAINTY AS TO THE ACCURACY OF SOME OF THE STATEMENTS BEARING THESE EARLY DATES, AT NO TIME SUBSEQUENT TO THAT, DID SHE HAVE OCCASION TO CALL THE ATTENTION OF THE CHURCH TO THE APOCRYPHA TO URGE ITS READING OR TO EXPLAIN ITS SIGNIFICANCE. THIS BEING THE CASE, OUR COUNSEL WOULD BE TO GIVE THE MATTER A MINIMUM OF ATTENTION. SURELY THE SILENCES IN HER PUBLISHED WRITINGS ON THIS SUBJECT CARRY SIGNIFICANCE.                                          ARTHUR L. WHITE     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Release Date June 6, 1985  {15MR 67.1}
[15MR 68.1]       MR No. 1150 - Speculation in Lands and Mines                (Written January 7, 1890, at Battle Creek, Michigan.)          Dealing in mining stocks is a snare to any of our brethren who invest in them. And buying and selling city lots, selling the lots at figures far above their real value, is another species of robbery. It is not lawful business. It may meet the world's standard, but it cannot meet the standard of an impartial God. These are Satan's traps, laid to catch souls. Our safeguard in all business transactions is the love and fear of God.  {15MR 68.1}
[15MR 68.2]          There are in our world today the same dishonest practices that prevailed before the Flood swept the world of its pollution, and that prevailed in Sodom before the wicked inhabitants of this city were consumed by fire from heaven. Satan will devise dream-like prospects of great gain. Thus he seeks to enlist men in his service and to engross their attention with the things of the world. Representations are made that are positively untrue.  {15MR 68.2}
[15MR 68.3]          Many unwary souls are beguiled and made an easy prey as they listen to the voice of a minister, which they have heard proclaiming the truth, now presenting the great advantage of speculating in land and mines. By the exaggerated accounts presented to the people, money that ought to flow into the treasury of God just when it is needed is diverted to other purposes. Investments in mines and land are described as a sure unfailing source of gain; and to obtain means for the cause is the plea. The glowing descriptions have led God-loving,                                         -69-     God-fearing men to invest thousands of dollars in mines. They were told that thus they would be enabled to assist the cause. But what does the after-sight show? They lost all they invested, getting nothing for their money.  {15MR 68.3}
[15MR 69.1]          The intoxicating craze for these investments originates with Satan. Thus he seeks to absorb the revenue which should be used to good advantage in God's work. We are safe only as our souls are sanctified by the truth. If the truth is planted in the heart by the Holy Spirit, God will make the discernment clear as to what is right and what is wrong. We have no confidence in a man who will preach to the congregation today, proclaiming solemn truth, and then yield tomorrow to the temptation of Satan to engage in land and mine speculations. The ungodly are lynx-eyed. They see that his conduct is wholly inconsistent with his teaching, and while their words are smooth and flattering, they despise him in their hearts. God wants His messengers to keep clear of everything of this character.  {15MR 69.1}
[15MR 69.2]          If Satan paves the way for further evil by making the speculation successful, how terrible is the result. The man's ambition is aroused. He wants money to spend as he desires. The means he obtains so easily he spends unwisely and unlawfully.  {15MR 69.2}
[15MR 69.3]          If we are Christians at all, we must be Christians always, looking constantly to Jesus, practicing His lessons, doing His work. Then we are safe. Those who live the word of Christ, as well as hear it, will in due time reap that which they have sown. God's Word, carefully and prayerfully studied, will keep all well-balanced. The Ruler of the nations has protested against man working out his own will, trampling on righteous principles and ignoring the                                         -70-     wisdom of God. He declares, "He that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent" ［Proverbs 28:20］. The books of heaven mark him as one guilty of fraud. "Nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy" ［1 Timothy 6:17］. "By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honor, and life" ［Proverbs 22:4］. "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have; for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" ［Hebrews 13:5］.  {15MR 69.3}
[15MR 70.1]          You cannot set aside the light God has sent to shine upon your pathway, and yet walk in its rays. You are to deal justly, never oppressing your fellow-men. We must study God's word to find out His way. No one who does this in sincerity will walk in darkness. Those who are trying to secure means by speculating in mines or land might better cease this work, and find some steady, honest business. Those who encourage the thirst for gaining riches by speculation will extinguish the light God has set for his feet. If he makes money fast, he will spend it unwisely, and this prodigality will be his ruin. He must continue to make largely in order to keep up his habit of living. Thus many are drawn into the gambling hells to gain money fast enough to meet expenses.  {15MR 70.1}
[15MR 70.2]          If the professed Christian has success in his first speculations, his ruin is almost sure. Scheme after scheme will be entered upon. Lands will be represented as teeming with gold. A large percentage will be promised for all investments. Thus many are deceived. Shares are taken. Then come loss and ruin, in which some lose all they possess.  {15MR 70.2}
[15MR 70.3]          Man proposes, but in order to save him from utter ruin, God disposes. God protests against the greed of the natural heart for gold. Whenever His way is                                          -71-     departed from and His will violated, by nations, churches, institutions, or individuals, it is recorded in the books of heaven, and retribution will surely follow. "He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver, nor he that loveth abundance with increase" ［Ecclesiastes 5:10］. He who says to gold, "Thou art my confidence" ［Job 31:24］, will find himself "pierced through with many sorrows" ［1 Timothy 6:10］. God would have His people keep themselves from all speculations.--Manuscript 26, Diary entry, January 7, 1890.  {15MR 70.3}
[15MR 71.1]                       A Warning Against Financial Speculation                  (Written January 7, 1890, at Battle Creek, Michigan.)            Financial speculations are Satan's snares, laid to catch souls. In all business transactions the only safeguard for a man is the love and fear of God. In our world today there are seen the same dishonest practices which prevailed before the Flood swept this earth of its moral pollution, and which prevailed in Sodom before fire from heaven consumed its wicked inhabitants. Satan engrosses men's minds with dreamlike prospects of great gain, and in their greed for gain, those who yield to him make representations which are positively untrue. God and the truth are forgotten.  {15MR 71.1}
[15MR 71.2]          Many unwary souls are beguiled and make an easy conquest, as they listen to a minister, whom they have heard proclaiming the truth, presenting the great advantage to be gained from speculation in mines and land, telling how by the means which will accrue from the investment, workers may be supported in new                                          -72-     fields. By the exaggerated accounts of what can be thus gained, men are induced to invest their means, in the hope of making money easily. To gain money for the cause of God is the plea offered by the one asking for means, and his glowing descriptions fascinate God-loving, God-fearing men, leading them to invest money which should have been given to God's cause, in schemes from which, when it is too late, they find that they receive no equivalent.  {15MR 71.2}
[15MR 72.1]          We have no confidence in a man who today preaches to a congregation about the solemn truths of God's word, and tomorrow yields to the temptations of Satan to engage in land and mine speculation. The ungodly are quick to see that his practices are wholly inconsistent with his teaching, and while they speak smooth, flattering words to him, at heart they despise him.  {15MR 72.1}
[15MR 72.2]          Look at the history of our brethren at Fresno. Men left churches that needed their help, to go to Fresno, some for their health, others in search of riches, attracted by glowing representations. The temptation to speculate came fierce and strong. Young men and men of grey hair, and even ministers of the gospel, were drawn into the sweeping current, their hopes raised high by their interest in mining shares and city lots. This was Satan's plans to bind up the means that were needed for the advancement of the cause of God. But the bubble burst. The unreasonable hopes failed. The transactions, recorded in the books of heaven as gambling, bore their bitter fruit.  {15MR 72.2}
[15MR 72.3]          God desires His servants to avoid all speculation. Satan may pave the way by making the first investment successful, but Oh, how bitter will be the final outcome! If the professing Christian has success in his first speculation, His ruin is almost certain. Visionary schemes are wildly entered into as schemers                                          -73-     present promising enterprises which they declare will pay a large percentage on all money invested. Good men are fascinated and deceived. Shares are purchased. Then comes confusion and loss. Some are totally ruined, having in the excitement invested all they had. In the thirst for riches, reason seems to depart. One or two may gain wealth, to their own injury, but many, many are bitterly disappointed.  {15MR 72.3}
[15MR 73.1]          Man proposes, but to save him from ruin, God disposes. The Lord has instructed me that should our brethren who are engaged in speculation realize their expectation, it would be the greatest curse that could come to Seventh- day Adventists. Thus others would be led into the snare, to the peril of their souls. Those who can earn an honest living would give up their business to speculate in mining stock, selling their souls for the hope of gain.  {15MR 73.1}
[15MR 73.2]          God requires His people to deal justly and in all kindness, never oppressing their fellow-beings in any way. Instead of entering into speculation, let those who know the truth find some steady, honest employment, in which they can earn their living in a way that glorifies God. Those who encourage the thirst for speculation will extinguish the light that God has given to guide their feet aright. Making money easily, they will spend it unwisely, and their prodigality will be their ruin. To maintain their habits of selfish indulgence, they must continue to make money rapidly. The effort to make money fast enough to meet their extravagant expenses, draws many into the gambling hell.  {15MR 73.2}
[15MR 73.3]          Man cannot prosper while he tramples on God's principles and ignores His wisdom. Those who refuse to obey the words of Christ will in time reap what                                          -74-     they have sown. When in any sense God's way is departed from, when His will is violated, whether by nations, churches, institutions, or individuals, it is written in the books of heaven, and retribution will surely follow.  {15MR 73.3}
[15MR 74.1]          Once speculation is entered into, there is ever after an unrest, a thirst for gain, a desire to engage in some enterprise by which means can be obtained with ease, to be spent with prodigality. If by the grace of God the error of this course is seen, and therefore does not prove fatal, the character bears the scars for years.  {15MR 74.1}
[15MR 74.2]          The Ruler of the universe has protested against the greed of the natural heart, saying, "He that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent" ［Proverbs 28:20］. God records them as guilty of fraud and transgression. "Nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy" ［1 Timothy 6:17］. "Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure" ［Leviticus 19:35］. "By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches and honor and life" ［Proverbs 22:4］. "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" ［Hebrews 12:5］. "He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver, not he that loveth abundance with increase" ［Ecclesiastes 5:10］. He who says to gold, "Thou art my confidence" ［Job 31:24］, shall find himself "pierced through with many sorrows" ［1 Timothy 6:10］. "What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" ［Mark 8:36］.  {15MR 74.2}
[15MR 74.3]          My prayer to our heavenly Father is, Lord, let the clear light shine forth. Carefully and prayerfully studied, God's Word keeps men well-balanced. In this                                          -75-     Word we find God's way clearly defined. No one who searches the Word with sincerity will walk in darkness. But we cannot cast aside the light God sends, and at the same time walk in its rays. To be Christians at all, we must be Christians in all things, revealing His virtues, doing His works. The truth is our safeguard. Planted in the heart by the Holy Spirit, it enables us to see clearly the difference between what is right and what is wrong. Those who cherish the truth will refuse to be drawn into speculation.--Manuscript 26a, 1890.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 1, 1985 Entire Manuscript  {15MR 74.3}
[15MR 76.1]       MR No. 1151 - Work the Cities; Talk Faith; Do Not Be Discouraged         (Written July 31, 1910, from Sanitarium, California, to "Brother and Sister Kress" ［the Drs. Kress］).  {15MR 76.1}
[15MR 76.2]          I am glad to hear from you again. Do not become discouraged. You are not young converts. In the night seasons I am saying to you, Do not fail nor be discouraged. If our cities are to be worked, every one of us who knows the truth must put on the gospel armor, and through sanctification of the truth we shall receive from the Lord the help that we must have.  {15MR 76.2}
[15MR 76.3]          Talk faith, and make your faith perfect by your works. Even though you feel that some of your brethren do not manifest that faith that works by love and purifies the soul, you have opportunities to obtain a rich experience. Move steadily forward, putting forth all the powers of sanctified intellect. Keep ever in view the great Pattern, Christ Jesus. Work out your own salvation, revealing in your life the work of the grace of God. No man can do your work for you. Pray in faith. You and your wife have had a valuable experience. The history of the Redeemer is full of meaning to us. "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. Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But 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 53:3-5］.                                         -77-  {15MR 76.3}
[15MR 77.1]          My brother and sister, let us seek for an increase of faith. There should be more glorifying of God. The Lord would have your faith shine forth with the light that Christ imparts. Do not, I entreat of you, be unbelieving. Talk faith; talk hope and courage. As you talk faith, your faith and confidence in the Lord will be increased. His Word is full of encouragement.  {15MR 77.1}
[15MR 77.2]          Your daughter also needs to gain an experience with you in service for the Master. You three should be a precious band, through Jesus Christ gaining glorious victories.  {15MR 77.2}
[15MR 77.3]          I am thankful that yesterday I have the courage to walk out in faith and speak to our people assembled at the sanitarium on the hillside. This is the first time for a number of weeks that I have felt able to attempt to speak. The sanitarium chapel is being enlarged, and the meeting was held outside under the trees. I spoke from the third chapter of Revelation. Here is a picture of the spiritual life of many, and precious promises held out to the overcomer. I was able to make all hear, and felt a rich blessing myself in putting forth the effort.  {15MR 77.3}
[15MR 77.4]          I am instructed to say to all our people, It is best to bear the yoke of Christ. Let each be so glad for an opportunity to work with Christ in bearing His message to the cities, that there will be no inclination to murmur. Christ calls for the heart to be surrendered to Him, that He may mold and fashion it after the divine similitude. When the spirit is worked by the Holy Spirit, the efforts to reach souls will be effectual.  {15MR 77.4}
[15MR 77.5]          Christ alone can accomplish the work, but you are to act your part with Him. When the truth of God convicts the conscience and the words spoken                                       -78-     bear the stamp of the Divine, hearts will be touched and souls will be converted to the truth.  {15MR 77.5}
[15MR 78.1]          There is too much of unconverted self mingled in the work. In working the cities, angels of God are to cooperate with the minister of the Word. The mind, the will, the words, the spirit of the teacher must be under the control of the great Teacher.  {15MR 78.1}
[15MR 78.2]          The truths of the Word are sacred. Teach the seeker after truth the words of the Infinite One: "A new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you." As the mind is awakened to yield to the teachings of Christ, Satan will seek in every possible way to bring him under the influence of men who have departed from the faith. Let every soul be wide-awake. The watchmen are not only to give warning to others, but they are to keep ever before them the truths of the Word. Not a word of discouragement is ever to fall from their lips.  {15MR 78.2}
[15MR 78.3]          Let the members of the families in their homes unite to put away all unprofitable talking, and to be instant in prayer. Let them go to their neighbors and talk to them of the truth. This is the instruction to be given in all our churches, in all our health institutions.  {15MR 78.3}
[15MR 78.4]          Fathers and mothers, in full assurance of faith plead with your sons and daughters. Let them not hear one impatient word from your lips. If necessary, make to your children a heartfelt confession for having allowed them to follow in the path of vanity and to displease the Lord, who withheld not His Son from a lost world, that all might receive pardon and forgiveness of sin.                                        -79-  {15MR 78.4}
[15MR 79.1]          Every obstacle to the redemption of God's people is to be removed by the opening of His Word, and the presentation of the plain, "Thus saith the Lord." "Every valley shall be exalted and every mountain and hill ［of difficulty］ shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain."  {15MR 79.1}
[15MR 79.2]          The true light is now to shine forth, for "darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people." ［See Isaiah 60:2］. 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 will repent and believe in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  {15MR 79.2}
[15MR 79.3]          When those who have been doing imperfect service for the Master understand and repent of their unconverted influence, then the Lord will pardon, and will unite with them in their efforts. Fathers and mothers who have in various ways indulged your children to their hurt, God desires you to redeem the time. Take heed while it is called today. Parents, is God enthroned in your conscience? Is truth occupying the citadel of your soul?  {15MR 79.3}
[15MR 79.4]          Special work needs to be done in Melrose and Boston. Brother and Sister Starr connected with you can do an important work in that great city. You will need to guard carefully the point of undue expense, lest the work be retarded. The Lord will open ways before you if you will move forward in faith and hope. Let not one word of discouragement come from your lips. --Letter 66, 1910.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 1, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 79.4}
[15MR 80.1]       MR No. 1152 - The Message of 1888; An Appeal for Unity; The Need for the Indwelling Christ         (Written September 19, 1892, from North Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia, to Elder Uriah Smith.)  {15MR 80.1}
[15MR 80.2]          You have written to me in regard to what shall be done with the article addressed to the Battle Creek church. I answer, Do with it as you think best, using it as you judge it will best serve the cause of God. Please follow your own judgment as to the disposal of anything I may write from henceforth, unless I give special directions concerning it. After it serves the special purpose for which it was written, you may drop out the personal matter and make it general, and put it to whatever use you may think best for the interests of the cause of God. As you say, we are far separated, and two or three months must pass before communications can be answered however important may be their character, therefore it is best not to wait ［for］ my decisions on matters of this kind, especially when your judgment is evidently in harmony with what is best, and something to which I could have no objection.  {15MR 80.2}
[15MR 80.3]         I feel the deepest interest in matters occurring at the great heart of the work. I know that the present is a most important time, for events of vital import to us will rapidly follow, and matters cannot stand still in our world for a long period. There are great things to be done that will require time. Oh, if the people claiming to believe the most solemn truth ever given to man would but act in a manner corresponding to their faith, we would not see the great lack that now exists.                                            -81-  {15MR 80.3}
[15MR 81.1]          Through all ages Christ has come to His people, as He represents Himself in the market place at all hours of the day employing laborers for His vineyard, and He says to them, "Why stand ye here all the day idle? Go labor today in my vineyard." But how forcible is this parable in these days when we are near the close of earth's history. Well may we pray as never before both in our closets and in the church, that One mightier than the potentates of earth may stand at the helm.  {15MR 81.1}
[15MR 81.2]          Satan will invent every possible device that he may attract the attention of the people from the issue that is just before us. He will seek to make confusion among us, causing the expression of various different opinions so that the people of God shall not be found in their proper position, confessing their sins and afflicting their souls, that they may have a living experience in the things of God, but shall become confused.  {15MR 81.2}
[15MR 81.3]          It is a sad fact that many of our people have leaned upon others, and have not made God their dependence. The humility, the meekness and lowliness of Christ, has not been attractive to them. They have set themselves in stubborn self-will, and unless there is a decided change in their attitude, they will, to the last, cherish traits of character that will unfit ［them］ for seeing and understanding the working of the Spirit of God, and they will be led by another spirit. They will fail to obtain the experience essential for them, so that they shall be clothed in the righteousness of Christ. Having on their citizen's garments, they will venture into the marriage feast, as it is represented in the parable, and will do the greatest dishonor to Him who has invited them and prepared for them the spotless robe.                                            -82-  {15MR 81.3}
[15MR 82.1]          Although I am full of peace and comfort in the Lord, yet I feel the deepest interest and tenderness of heart for all who have shown the least inclination to cast in their lot with that of the people of God. I do not wish that one of them shall become so engaged in business that he will be among those who are represented as "foolish virgins," who have no oil in their vessels with their lamps, and who are represented also by the man who came to the festal supper not having on the wedding garment.  {15MR 82.1}
[15MR 82.2]          All these parables are of the deepest interest to us in this day, and, dear brother, I feel an intense desire of heart that you shall be among those who from henceforth shall have their eyes anointed with the eyesalve, that you may clearly discern all things. The Lord would have you give the trumpet a certain sound, that not one among them shall fail to understand the voice of warning, or fail to prepare for the conflict before us. I have been shown that the Lord would be pleased to have you do this. But it will require on your part a vital connection with the great Leader of armies, and not follow your way or will, or be led by your own inclination, for this is not safe for you.  {15MR 82.2}
[15MR 82.3]          I do not wish to speak one word to you that will discourage you or bring upon you one pang of anguish. I have a love for your soul, and I desire that you shall bear the banner of truth firmly until the close of this earth's history. But to say that you will do this, I cannot. I am compelled to say to you that you are in danger, and your only safety lies in walking humbly with your God. Be careful what steps you take in expressing your differences with your brethren. You cannot tell how it pains me to see some of our brethren taking a course that I know is not pleasing to God. They are full of jealousy                                          -83-     and evil surmising, and are ever ready to show in just what way they differ with Elder Jones or Waggoner. The same spirit that was manifested in the past manifests itself at every opportunity; but this is not from the impulse of the Spirit of God.  {15MR 82.3}
[15MR 83.1]          I have not received a line from either Elder Jones or Waggoner since I left Battle Creek. I did not write a line to them until the last mail, when I wrote to Elder Jones, and a few weeks before sent a letter to Elder Waggoner concerning the work in England. But I can never forget the experience which we had in Minneapolis, or the things that were then revealed to me in regard to the spirit that controlled men, the words spoken, the actions done in obedience to the powers of evil.  {15MR 83.1}
[15MR 83.2]          Some have made confession, yourself among the number. Others have made no confession, for they were too proud to do this, and they have not come to the light. They were moved at the meeting by another spirit, and they knew not that God had sent these young men, Elders Jones and Waggoner, to bear a special message to them, which they treated with ridicule and contempt, not realizing that the heavenly intelligences were looking upon them and registering their words in the books of heaven.  {15MR 83.2}
[15MR 83.3]          The words and actions of every one who took part in this work will stand registered against them until they make confession of their wrong. Those who do not repent of their sin will, if circumstances permit, repeat the same actions. I know that at that time the Spirit of God was insulted, and now when I see anything approaching to the same course of action, I am exceedingly pained. The people of God have had an opportunity to see what is the work these agents are                                             -84-     doing, and yet those who are opposed to the points of truth which they brought out will, if occasion affords them a chance, make it appear that they are not in harmony with them, as much as to say, Beware of what they teach, for they carry matters to the extreme; they are not safe men.  {15MR 83.3}
[15MR 84.1]          There is but one Scriptural way in which to deal with men when they introduce unsafe doctrines, and it has been enjoined upon the church by the Lord Jesus Christ. We are to strive by every power of our being to come into harmony with our brethren, because Christ has prayed that His disciples might be one as He and the Father are one. When we follow the injunction of Christ, cooperating with Him so as to bring about a condition among us that will answer the prayer of Christ, then we are doing the will of God; but when we disregard those rules that when followed will prevent discord and alienation, we scatter from Christ.  {15MR 84.1}
[15MR 84.2]          Matters of disunion have been managed in a reckless way, and as a result the church has become weak, and that love that should exist between brethren has died out of the heart. There has been so much pride of heart and stubbornness of will among those who professed to be the followers of Christ, that He has been dishonored. Shall not self be crucified? Shall not Christ abide in the heart by living faith? Oh, that God would imbue His church with His Holy Spirit; but He cannot do this without the cooperation of the church. He who would have the Lord work for him, must yield his will wholly to the will of God. He must become as a little child. It is impossible to do this unless the heart is yielded to God.  {15MR 84.2}
[15MR 84.3]          It is quite possible that Elder Jones or Waggoner may be overthrown by the temptations of the enemy; but if they should be, this would not prove that they                                         -85-     had had no message from God, or that the work that they had done was all a mistake. But should this happen, how many would take this position, and enter into a fatal delusion because they are not under the control of the Spirit of God. They walk in the sparks of their own kindling, and cannot distinguish between the fire they have kindled and the light which God has given, and they walk in blindness as did the Jews.  {15MR 84.3}
[15MR 85.1]          I know that this is the very position many would take if either of these men were to fall, and I pray that these men upon whom God has laid the burden of a solemn work may be able to give the trumpet a certain sound, and honor God at every step, and that their path at every step may grow brighter and brighter, until the close of time.  {15MR 85.1}
[15MR 85.2]          I have the same desire for you to stand in the light up to the close of this earth's history, as for them. I have been shown that God would be glorified by your standing in the forefront of the battle. This He would have had you do during all the years of the past; but you have failed of doing it again and again. You have grieved the Spirit of God, and have given occasion to unbelievers and to those who wanted an excuse for such a course, to resist the testimonies, to turn from them, and to war against them; and yet you professed to believe in them. This you did during the time I stood alone after the Minneapolis meeting, until you made your confession.  {15MR 85.2}
[15MR 85.3]          But in Salamanca, N.Y., I was shown again that a great and good God would pardon your transgressions and forgive your sins, if you would humble your heart before God and come to Him in the meekness of a little child. He would then let His Holy Spirit rest upon you, and your testimony would be full of marrow and                                            -86-     fatness. If you would walk in the light as He is in the light, your discernment would be clear and unobscured. May the Lord help you to understand my words.  {15MR 85.3}
[15MR 86.1]          Through the grace and power of Christ, you may march on to victory, not in the rear, but in the forward ranks. But the holding of this position will depend wholly upon your own course of action. It depends on whether or not you will be ever in covenant relation with God and with His adopted children, knowing your oneness with Jesus, our exalted Head, who hath delivered us from the powers of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son, who hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.  {15MR 86.1}
[15MR 86.2]          The time of trouble is before us. The angels are, as it were, just loosening the four winds, but they cannot loose them yet. The church is too far behind her privileges. The people of God are too indolent. Many are unfaithful; many are unclean and polluted. We are not prepared for the crisis. The question is, How long will God wait for our tardy movements? Instead of lying before God in humility, man has exalted himself and has indulged in high ideas of his own importance and loftiness, and his eyes have been closed to the glory of Christ. When Christ beams forth upon the soul, all glory is rendered unto Him who is seen to be the only One full of grace and truth. His glory alone should fill the soul.  {15MR 86.2}
[15MR 86.3]          When the people of God are one with Him, they will be one with each other. Their unity and love will testify to the genuineness of their union with Christ. When their eyes are all fixed upon Christ, their hearts will be united in love. They will then stand shoulder to shoulder to resist the confederacy of evil, and they will have strength for a battle that cannot be seen by the natural eye.                                          -87-     They will stay their hearts upon the Lord, saying, "Unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" ［Isaiah 9:6］.  {15MR 86.3}
[15MR 87.1]          Christ is to be our Captain. We need not tremble or be afraid. Oh, what love the Father has unfolded to us. We are not to be left a helpless prey to the devices of the enemy; for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth, and He loves man with a love that is infinite. No language can express the depths of divine love.  {15MR 87.1}
[15MR 87.2]          Since God has so loved us, we ought also to love one another. How much? Jesus said, "This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth; but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another" ［John 15:12-15］. Here we have a decided, positive command. We would ask, Who are doers of these words? Oh, that God may impart to His poor, needy children His Holy Spirit of love, that the prayer of Christ may be fulfilled in His people, and we all may be one as He is in the Father and the Father in Him.                                          -88-  {15MR 87.2}
[15MR 88.1]         What attainments are there presented for the Christian's endeavor, but how far short are our practices. Were our practices in harmony with the command of our Lord, the result would be glorious. He says, "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］.  {15MR 88.1}
[15MR 88.2]          Jesus did not pray for that which was not attainable by us, and if this unity is possible, why do not those who are professed followers of Christ strive more earnestly for this condition of grace? When we are one with Christ, we shall be one with His followers. The great want of the soul is Jesus, the hope of glory. Through the Holy Spirit this unity may be attained, and love for the brethren will abound, and men will take knowledge of us that we have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Our life will be a reflection of His holy character. As believers in Him we shall represent His meekness of spirit, His gentleness of demeanor. Individually the church of God must answer the prayer of Christ till we all come into the unity of the Spirit.  {15MR 88.2}
[15MR 88.3]          What is it that causes dissension and discord? It is the result of walking apart from Christ. At a distance from Him, we lose our love for Him, and grow cold toward His followers. The farther the beams of light recede from their center, the wider separated they become. Each believer is as a beam of light                                          -89-     from Christ the Sun of righteousness. The more closely we walk with Christ, the center of all love and light, the greater will be our affection for His light-bearers. When the saints are drawn close to Christ, they must of necessity be drawn close to each other, for the sanctifying grace of Christ will bind their hearts together. You cannot love God and yet fail to love your brethren.  {15MR 88.3}
[15MR 89.1]          Dear brother, I have written thus to you that you may stand in the confidence and love of the people of God, and that no one may be uncertain as to where you do stand. The mystic chain of love must bind the followers of Christ heart to heart. When Jesus was about to be crucified, Herod and Pilate, enemies before, became friends, and were united in a corrupt harmony over the condemnation of our Lord; and shall not those who claim to love our Lord Jesus Christ be constrained by the divine principle of love? Shall not all heart-burnings, alienations, and estrangements be forever expelled from the soul, and antipathies be overcome, through the grace of Christ?  {15MR 89.1}
[15MR 89.2]          Does not Christ see enough in us of perversity and crookedness to warrant His withdrawing of His love from us? But as He does not separate His love from us, shall we not draw more closely to our divine Center, and through His gracious mercy draw closer together? Let us form a holy alliance to exalt the Son of God before the world. If the enemies became united through their hatred of Jesus, shall not we who profess His name unite in Him? Standing under the cross of Calvary, looking upon Him who has manifested unparalleled love to man, should not all jealousies, all bitterness, wrath, and malice cease? Should not all evil-speaking and evil thinking be done away?                                          -90-  {15MR 89.2}
[15MR 90.1]          From the attitude which some assume toward others we should imagine that they thought it a desirable thing to have little confidence and love for others. But when confidence is lacking, it is manifested by suspicion, by criticism, by catching up things that are unworthy of notice, and making capital of whatever seems to them objectionable. In this way Satan is glorified and Christ is put to shame, dishonored in the person of His saints. I have had this matter presented to me in a variety of forms, until I can realized how cruel it is. All who love Jesus in sincerity and truth should be heartily recognized and welcomed as those who are "laborers together with God," "endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."  {15MR 90.1}
[15MR 90.2]          Oh, that self may be subdued in each one of us who profess to believe in Jesus! Oh, that pride may be laid in the dust! Oh, that we may more fully reflect the image of Jesus! As never before we should pray not only that laborers may be sent forth into the great harvest field, but that we may have a clear conception of truth, so that when the messengers of truth shall come we may accept the message and respect the messenger. Oh, that darkness may not settle upon any soul, but that the illuminating Spirit of Christ shall fall upon His people. Spiritual things are spiritually discerned, and the glory of our Redeemer is His character; this we must behold with spiritual vision. I would pray as did the apostle, "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him: 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 1:17, 18］.                                       -91-  {15MR 90.2}
[15MR 91.1]         "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe" ［1 Thessalonians 2:13］. The word of God cannot work effectually in the heart when it is barred out by unbelief. The message which the messengers have been proclaiming is the message to the Laodicean church. ［Revelation 3:14-20, quoted.］  {15MR 91.1}
[15MR 91.2]          This message has not had the influence that it should have had upon the mind and heart of the believers. The true state of the church is to be presented before men, and they are to receive the word of God not as something originating with men, but as the word of God. Many have treated the message to the Laodiceans as it has come to them, as the word of man. Both message and messenger have been held in doubt by those who should have been the first to discern and act upon it as the word of God. Had they received the word of God sent to them, they would not now be in darkness. "For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and the Father, and of Christ" ［Colossians 2:1, 2］.  {15MR 91.2}
[15MR 91.3]          "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 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. For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the                                         -92-     Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power" ［verses 6-10］.  {15MR 91.3}
[15MR 92.1]         Those who name the name of Christ should adopt Christian maxims. They should fear to ridicule the message or the messenger. Let no man say that this conversation is in heaven, while he is manifestly groveling in the dust, and his thoughts and feelings are as far separated from God as the east from the west. The true Christian will fear to make light of God's message, lest he may lay a stumbling block in the way of a soul who may see and imitate his example.  {15MR 92.1}
[15MR 92.2]          The church of God is to shine as a light to the world, but Jesus is the illuminator, and He is represented as moving among His people. No one shines by his own light. The Lord God almighty and the Lamb are the lights thereof. The message given us by A. T. Jones, and E. J. Waggoner is the message of God to the Laodicean church, and woe be unto anyone who professes to believe the truth and yet does not reflect to others the God-given rays. Elder Smith, had you been unprejudiced, had not reports affected you and led you to bar your heart against the entrance of what these men presented; had you, like the noble Bereans, searched the Scriptures to see if their testimony agreed with its instruction, you would have stood upon vantage ground, and been far advanced in Christian experience. If you had received the truth into a good and honest heart, you would have become a living channel of light, with clear perception and sanctified imagination. Your conceptions of truth would have been exalted, and your heart made joyful in God. God would have given you a testimony clear, powerful, and convincing. But the first position you took in regard to the message and the messenger, has been a continual snare to you and a stumbling block.                                        -93-  {15MR 92.2}
[15MR 93.1]          As one long experienced in the truth, it was your place to be among those who should first catch the message from the God of heaven, and voice it to the people; but the enemy presented in a magnified light every matter that seemed objectionable to you, and your imagination has not pictured facts to you. The enemy had prepared a long chain of circumstances, like links in a chain, that you might be prevented from standing where you should have stood. You have lost a rich and powerful experience, and that loss, resulting from refusing the precious treasures of truth presented to you, is still your loss. You are not where God would have had you, and you have missed the providential links one after another in the chain, so that now it is hard for you to see the mysterious connections in the endless chain of providence in His special work.  {15MR 93.1}
[15MR 93.2]          I write these words, not to afflict your soul, but to warn you that you may guard against repeating the same experience, thinking it was one ordered of the Lord. God was seeking to lead you in the past, and it is necessary you understand this, that you may not place stumbling blocks before your own feet, over which you will stumble. I know not whether or not you will receive this as from God; but I beseech you for your own soul's sake, take these words written to you in love, and divest yourself of unbelieving, hard thoughts. Put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. Lay aside fleshly reasonings. Let every soul now stand before God in his own nothingness, and draw nigh to God.  {15MR 93.2}
[15MR 93.3]          The many and confused ideas in regard to Christ's righteousness and justification by faith are the result of the position you have taken toward the man and the message sent of God. But oh, Jesus longs to bestow upon you the                                        -94-     richest blessings, and ［to］ make you a mouthpiece for Himself, that you may declare concerning the grace that dwelleth in you. Jesus has looked upon you with sorrow, because you have not answered His expectations. "Watchman, what of the night?" This is the question that has been asked and will continue to be asked and answered. What will you answer, my brother?  {15MR 93.3}
[15MR 94.1]          The Laodicean message has been sounding. Take this message in all its phases and sound it forth to the people wherever Providence opens the way. Justification by faith and the righteousness of Christ are the themes to be presented to a perishing world. Oh, that you may open the door of your heart to Jesus! The voice of Jesus, the great vendor of heavenly treasures, is calling to you, "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." But I will write no more. My heart is drawn out in love toward you, and my desire is that you shall triumph with the third angel's message.--Letter 24, 1892.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. September 5, 1985. Entire letter.  {15MR 94.1}
[15MR 95.1]       MR No. 1153 - Deaths on Pitcairn Island         (Diary entry written in Sydney, Australia, December 28 and 29, 1893.)          Thursday, December 28, 1893. I was very nervous last night and could not rest for some time. My kidneys pained me. I am so thankful I did sleep very well the latter part of the night. This morning I am feeling as well as usual. I arose at half past four and commenced writing. The sky is covered with a thick blanket of clouds.  {15MR 95.1}
[15MR 95.2]          There is much business going on today. A telegram coming from Pitcairn brings the sad intelligence to Brother McCoy that there are deaths in his family, but ［the telegram］ does not state who has died. A telegram is sent for answer to the inquiry, Who have fallen in death? Brother McCoy is as one stricken by the palsy. All are seeking to render him all the assistance it is possible for them to give. I conversed with him for about one hour, and I think it did him good. He feels deeply over the intelligence given. His heart seems as if it would break. We had a praying season in union with Brother and Sister Starr. The Lord came graciously near and comforted and blessed the afflicted one. Telegram received from Willie that they would be at the depot that night half past ten. It has been a rainy day.                                           -96-  {15MR 95.2}
[15MR 96.1]          Friday, December 29, 1893. This day is a very busy day. The rain is falling steadily. The furniture and bedding are being removed to the campground. Everything is in confusion.  {15MR 96.1}
[15MR 96.2]          This day a telegram came responding that Brother McCoy's wife ［Eliza］ and daughter Ella May McCoy were dead; also Brother Young, elder of the church, the father of Brother McCoy's wife. Here are three cut right out of the family. We cannot be surprised at the great grief of our afflicted brother. He seems bowed to the very earth with his great sorrow. We feel like weeping with him but direct him to Jesus.--Manuscript 89, 1893, pp. 5, 6.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. September 5, 1985  {15MR 96.2}
[15MR 97.1]       MR No. 1154 - Value of the Soul; Importance of the Will; Christ's Intercession in the Heavenly Sanctuary         (Written originally as a letter to James Edson White.) ［THIS, AND THE LETTER WRITTEN AUGUST 10 (LETTER 123, 1893), WERE INSTRUMENTS IN TURNING J. EDSON WHITE CLEAR AROUND IN A MARKED RECONVERSION. HE GAVE UP HIS PRINTING BUSINESS IN CHICAGO AND DEDICATED HIS LIFE TO THE WORK OF PIONEERING EDUCATIONAL WORK AMONG THE BLACKS IN MISSISSIPPI AND WAS SOON DRAWN INTO THE MINISTRY OF THE CHURCH. SEE THE E. G. WHITE BIOGRAPHY, VOL. 4, PP. 94-96.］  {15MR 97.1}
[15MR 97.2]         "And He spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: and he thought within himself saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry" ［Luke 12:16-19］.  {15MR 97.2}
[15MR 97.3]         We have quoted the sayings of the man, and now we shall quote the sayings of God. "But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God" ［verses 20, 21］.  {15MR 97.3}
[15MR 97.4]         You say you have no religious inclinations. I am not surprised at this, because it is a long time since you have taken yourself away from God and refused to be a follower of Jesus Christ, and changed leaders. The god                                           -98-     whom you have chosen as your god is not at all religiously inclined, and as long as you give yourself ［as］ a willing subject to the great leader of apostasy, you will never be religiously inclined.  {15MR 97.4}
[15MR 98.1]          "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." Here the conditions are plainly stated by Jesus Christ, the Sinbearer. When you deliberately decide to go contrary to the word spoken by Jesus Christ, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you," how can you expect to be religiously inclined?  {15MR 98.1}
[15MR 98.2]          To enlarge our views of His condescension and beneficence, He presents the picture of the judgment--the separation of the just and the unjust--and shows us He identifies His interests with suffering humanity. He is teaching in the open field where the eye can take in the beauties of nature and the creatures of God's creation. "Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouses nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?" ［Luke 12:24-26］.  {15MR 98.2}
[15MR 98.3]          Here is presented definitely that man is dependent upon God for every breath he draws. The beating heart, the throbbing pulse, every nerve and muscle in the living organism, are kept in order and activity by the power of an infinite God. "Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was                                           -99-     not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith? And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you" ［Matthew 7:28-33］.  {15MR 98.3}
[15MR 99.1]          Here Christ leads the mind abroad to contemplate the open fields of nature, and His power touches the eye and the senses, to discern the wonderful works of divine power. He directs attention first to nature, then up through nature to nature's God, who upholds the worlds by His power. He points to the opening bud, ［balance of sentence left out］. ［First part of sentence out］ human art can equal. He watches over little birds. Not a sparrow falleth to the ground without the notice of your heavenly  Father.  {15MR 99.1}
[15MR 99.2]          The Lord Jesus appeals to the rain and the sunshine, every ray of light given to our world coming on the unjust as well as the just, the evil as well as the good, the unthankful as well as the thankful, to confirm His testimony to the unsurpassed goodness of God. Christ represents the divine attention given upon ［various elements of］ His creation that seem so insignificant, and to the objects of nature which His own hands have created. Every lofty tree, every shrub, every blooming flower, the lily of the field, and the earth clothed with its garment of living green, are kept in order and occupy their time and season to bear testimony that God loves man.                                            -100-  {15MR 99.2}
[15MR 100.1]          And as Jesus, the great Teacher, presents His lessons to be learned from the open book of nature, He opens the eye of their understanding to reveal the attention that is given to objects in proportion to the rank they occupy in the scale of creation. If the grass of the field, which today is so beautiful, delighting the senses, is tomorrow cut down and burned, receives so great attention from God, how much more will He not bestow upon man formed in His image. We cannot form exaggerated ideas of the value of the human soul, and the attention given by Heaven to man. He then gives the comforting assurance, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."  {15MR 100.1}
[15MR 100.2]          Jesus is the good Shepherd. His followers are the sheep of His pasture. A shepherd is always with his flock to defend them, to keep them from the wolves, to hunt up the lost sheep and carry them back to the fold, to lead them beside green pastures and beside living waters.  {15MR 100.2}
[15MR 100.3]          I cannot neglect the great salvation that has been brought to me at such an infinite cost to my heavenly Father, who "so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." I will not dishonor my Redeemer to lightly esteem His sufferings, His trials, His condescension, His sacrifice, His death, because He so loves us, He would Himself become our sin-bearer. Oh, what love, what inexpressible love! He became a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief. He died on the cross ［as if He were］ a transgressor, that man might be justified through His merits.  {15MR 100.3}
[15MR 100.4]          "I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day." Not even to angels                                            -101-     can we commit this precious soul which Christ has valued of such a price that He died to redeem it, died that it should not perish. While the angels can and do minister unto all who are heirs of salvation, they are to be our faithful sentinels lest Satan should destroy us.  {15MR 100.4}
[15MR 101.1]          Stephen committed the keeping of his soul to Him whom he saw in his yielding up his life. "But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God." He said "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He committed his soul unto Jesus. He only is able to take care of it. We are not our own selves able to appreciate or take care of our souls. And if we do not commit our souls to God in faith and trust every day, Satan himself will take the soul committed to his will. None should be entrusted with the soul but He ［line left out］ things we may say, "My soul is as an angel before God: its worth I can only estimate by the cross of Calvary. It is more precious than gold, silver, and precious stones. Its value is to be estimated by the price paid to redeem it." ［1 Peter 1:18-22, quoted.］  {15MR 101.1}
[15MR 101.2]          The soul is through the Lifegiver capable of living through eternal ages, and man is to take special care of the soul which Christ has purchased with His own blood. With Christ is Omnipotence. He alone is able to keep that which I have committed to His trust against that day. If the preciousness of the soul has not been appreciated, if its temple courts have been defiled with buyers and sellers, and with committing it to                                           -102-     the rule and indwelling of Satan in thought or in feeling, I would in deep earnestness beseech you to make no delay, but come before God in sincere prayer without one moment's speculation or hesitation, and say, "O Lord, I have opened the door of my heart to Thy worst enemy, and the worst enemy of my soul. I have acted as though I could save my own soul, as if I could sin and then reform when I choose to do so; but I find a power holding me in his keeping. Thou alone can save me that my soul shall not be eternally ruined. I have despite ［sentence out］ I am lost and undone. I cannot cleanse this soul from one stain of guilt. No longer will I withhold it from Thee. I dare not trust it with any power but Thine. I bring it sinful and polluted to Thee. I lay it at Thy feet. Thou Lamb of God, wash my soul in the blood of the Lamb; clothe it with Thine own garments of purity and righteousness. Sanctify it through the truth. Put Thy Spirit in my heart, and inspire it with Thy love. Incline my heart to keep Thy commandments. Unite my poor misguided will to Thy will. Make me Thine, blessed Lord. Take not Thine Holy Spirit from me. Let this much abused temple of Thine that hath been filled with idols be cleansed and become a trophy of Thine agony."  {15MR 101.2}
[15MR 102.1]          Let the prayer in faith go up to God, "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy loving kindness: according unto the multitude of Thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. . . . Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence; and take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation; and uphold me with Thy free spirit. Then will I teach                                          -103-     transgressors Thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto Thee. . . . O Lord, open Thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth Thy praise. For Thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: Thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise" ［Psalms 51:1, 2, 10-13, 15-17］.  {15MR 102.1}
[15MR 103.1]          If you will without delay solemnly and earnestly take Christ as your personal Saviour, committing to His hands and care the keeping of your precious soul, He will take it. He is waiting for you to open the door. Will you let Jesus in now, just now? Christ has undertaken to save us. "Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me: for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world" ［John 17:24］. "Thine they were, and Thou gavest them Me." And again He says, "I give unto them eternal life;. . . neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand."  {15MR 103.1}
[15MR 103.2]          Christ will accomplish that which He has undertaken, if man, the human agent, will cooperate with Him, if he will not resist and refuse the great salvation offered to him. He has undertaken to save us. Shall we be saved? Will we commit the keeping of our souls to Him who hath identified His interests in so remarkable a manner with our interests? If we will accept Christ as our personal Saviour, He will elevate and cleanse us from all moral defilement, and He will present us faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. He will say to the Father, "Here are those whom Thou hast given Me. I will that they also be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory."                                           -104-  {15MR 103.2}
[15MR 104.1]          And everyone who will break from the slavery and service of Satan, and will stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Immanuel, will be kept by Christ's intercessions. Christ, as our Mediator, at the right hand of the Father, ever keeps us in view, for it is as necessary that He should keep us by His intercessions as that He should redeem us with His blood. If He lets go His hold of us for one moment, Satan stands ready to destroy. Those purchased by His blood, He now keeps by His intercession. He ever liveth to make intercession for us. "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 7:25］.  {15MR 104.1}
[15MR 104.2]          When David saw the prosperity of the wicked, and he himself fail, he was tempted to doubt the existence of God; but he need not have done this, for it was he himself that separated his soul from God. God would never separate the soul from Him. The human agent needs to abide in Christ, and choose Him, and Christ will live in him. God should not be reproached for the backslidings of any. The warnings and instructions are given fully and abundantly in the Word, to guard the soul from peril. But the will must be placed on the side of God's will. No one will be kept who does not put his soul into God's keeping. The soul that feels his dependence, and trusts in One who is able to keep his soul, will not perish. - Manuscript 73, 1893.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. September 5, 1985. Entire Manuscript.  {15MR 104.2}
[15MR 105.1]       MR No. 1155 - The Danger of Extravagance in Illustrating Our Books    ［NOTE: ADVENTIST MINISTERS' SALARIES IN 1898 AVERAGED ABOUT $12.00 A WEEK, AND A ONE-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THE REVIEW COST $1.50.  IN THAT YEAR, 67 ILLUSTRATIONS WERE PUBLISHED IN THE REVIEW AND  HERALD'S TOTAL OF 840 PAGES. BY WAY OF CONTRAST, THE FOLLOWING  ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE DESIRE OF AGES, PUBLISHED IN THE  DECEMBER 27, 1898 ISSUE OF THE REVIEW, REVEALS THAT ABOUT  400 ILLUSTRATIONS APPEARED IN THE DESIRE OF AGES AND THE  BEST EDITION COST $7.00.    ］                       DURING THE NEXT YEAR AND A HALF                    YOUR SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSONS WILL BE ON THE LIFE OF                  CHRIST AND HIS APOSTLES. AS A HELP TO THE STUDY OF                  THESE LESSONS, WHAT BETTER BOOK CAN YOU PURCHASE                  THAN THE "DESIRE OF AGES," THE LATEST AND LARGEST                  BOOK FROM THE PEN OF MRS. E. G. WHITE? THIS IS                  AN INTENSELY INTERESTING AND BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED                  VOLUME ON THE LIFE OF CHRIST AND HIS APOSTLES, AND IS                  OF A NATURE TO INTEREST ALL CLASSES. ITS KEY-NOTE IS                  THE GREAT TRUTH THAT IN CHRIST THE LOVE OF THE FATHER                  IS REVEALED.--THAT "GOD WAS IN CHRIST, RECONCILING                  THE WORLD UNTO HIMSELF."  {15MR 105.1}
[15MR 105.2]                        THE ILLUSTRATIONS FOR THIS GRAND WORK HAVE BEEN                  PREPARED BY EMINENT NEW YORK ARTISTS, AND ARE                  FIRST-CLASS IN EVERY PARTICULAR. THEY CONSIST OF 38                  FULL-PAGE ENGRAVINGS, 87 ILLUMINATED CHAPTER-HEADINGS,                  AND NEARLY 300 SMALL ILLUSTRATIONS, AND WERE ALL                  MADE ESPECIALLY FOR THIS BOOK.  {15MR 105.2}
[15MR 105.3]                        THE WORK IS DIVIDED INTO NINE SECTIONS.                  EIGHTY-SEVEN CHAPTERS FORM A VOLUME OF NEARLY 900 LARGE                  OCTAVO PAGES. IT IS PRINTED ON ENAMEL-FINISHED,                  SUPERCALENDERED BOOK-PAPER, AND IS BOUND AS                  FOLLOWS;-                    CLOTH, MARBLED EDGES,     $3 50                    CLOTH, GILT EDGES,         4 25                    LIBRARY, MARBLED EDGES,    5 00                    FULL MOROCCO, GILT EDGES,  7 00                    ADDRESS ALL ORDERS TO YOUR STATE TRACT SOCIETY, OR                  TO THE REVIEW AND HERALD PUB. CO., BATTLE CREEK,                  MICH.: CHICAGO, ILL; ATLANTA, GA.; TORONTO, ONT.        (Written September 12, 1899)  {15MR 105.3}
[15MR 105.4]          In order to reach unbelievers, a manifestation of outward display is seen among our people; but this display will not accomplish the good that is represented. Our books are being filled with expensive pictures, and this makes them too costly to give away, and too costly for those persons to buy who need them most. The matter of illustrating is being carried to extremes. The extra money put into the cover of a book, or into pictures, will not convert the soul to the truths that are contained in the book. That so much space should be occupied with pictures is not in the order of God. There have been long delays in the publication of our works, waiting for illustrations--delays that could be ill-afforded, and which have kept from the people the truths which they should have had.  {15MR 105.4}
[15MR 105.5]          The canvassers are not obtaining that healthful experience in their work which they should have. In their handling of the books they are being educated to present before the public the beautiful cover and many illustrations rather than the points of truth contained in the books. In doing this they are patterning after the world, and they fail to make God their dependence and trust. "What is the chaff to the wheat?" God asks ［Jeremiah 23:28］.  {15MR 105.5}
[15MR 105.6]          The artist may do his best to represent the things his eyes have never seen, but his representations are so far beneath the reality that I am                                            -106-     pained as I behold them. Neither God nor heaven nor Christ, who is the image of the Father, can be truly represented by the art of man. If the Lord had thought it advisable to represent Christ in this way, His person would have been described in the writings of the apostle. In the words of the disciple John, Christ is presented before us: ［John 1:1-14, quoted］.  {15MR 105.6}
[15MR 106.1]          There were times when Christ spoke with the authority of true greatness. "He that hath ears to hear," He said, "let him hear." He called for submissive attention to His words, for although He was in human form, He bore His commission from the Excellent Glory. "The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, . . . full of grace and truth." God summons the world to listen while He speaks, and to receive every word He utters as law and life.  {15MR 106.1}
[15MR 106.2]          Satan is working with masterly power to corrupt the experience of human beings, so that the influence of the truth will not appear in their lives and become a savor of life unto life to all who believe. Those who are purified and sanctified will have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. The principles of Christ's life are to be received into the soul by wearing His yoke, and learning of Him the lesson of obedience. "Learn of Me," says the great Teacher, "for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." In following My example of meekness and lowliness, you will find rest. There will be no strife for the supremacy, no envy, no evil surmising. The soul will rest in the pure, holy love of God. The speech is pure, for it comes from lips that have been touched with a live coal from off the altar, thus ［are］ we prepared to deliver the message God shall give.                                            -107-  {15MR 106.2}
[15MR 107.1]          Christ is to be all and in all to the believer. There must be none of self, and all of Christ, whose we are by creation and by redemption. The Holy Spirit takes the most attractive excellencies of the One who is altogether lovely, and presents them in such a way as to engage the attention and receive the best attention of the renewed heart. God designs that the Holy Spirit shall keep before the mind's eye scenes that will attract and absorb all there is of the new-born soul. We need not any external representations of the person of Christ. The imagination must take in the only begotten of the Father, "full of grace and truth," the One altogether lovely, and the chiefest among ten thousand.  {15MR 107.1}
[15MR 107.2]          I have been commissioned to say to you that the Holy Spirit will work your minds if you will let Him. You are in danger, my brethren and sisters. You are spending large sums of money for our books and papers, and in doing this you are on the wrong track. It is mere supposition that this abundance of illustrations will accomplish great good in the sale of the book. Your large investments of money for illustrations do not bear the credentials of heaven. God does not approve of them. Much has been said in favor of this elaborate work, but nevertheless God is not pleased with it. The impression left upon human minds is not good to the saving of the soul. Even worldlings cannot understand why so much time and money and talent should be given to this class of work.  {15MR 107.2}
[15MR 107.3]          Our books can be tastefully prepared, as all books should be; but our publishing houses are making a mistake in departing from the simplicity of the gospel. We are using the Lord's talent of means, and we must handle it                                            -108-     wisely. The returns from this work of illustrating do not warrant such a large outlay of means. The income is not proportionate to the time and means spent in securing the cuts.  {15MR 107.3}
[15MR 108.1]          Every item in connection with this extravagant outlay was presented before me. We must no longer consume the Lord's capital in expensive book making. Whatever is presented in favor of this work, one objection remains which cannot be overcome--its influence upon the author, the publishing house, and the canvasser. The Lord has measured it all, and He is displeased with the showing.  {15MR 108.1}
[15MR 108.2]          I have not presented before you all that has been opened before my mind, but I would warn our publishing houses to be careful in every move they make. God has greatly humbled the publishing institution at Battle Creek. It was not His pleasure to do this, but He has declared, "I will" be sanctified in them that come nigh Me."  {15MR 108.2}
[15MR 108.3]          While the Lord is laying His stroke on our institutions by removing from them the favor of the people, a close investigation should be made of the cause of the chastisement. Let us study the light which the Lord has given for every line of work that has any relation to His service. Let us put away the principles that are not after the mind of God, but which have existed for many years.  {15MR 108.3}
[15MR 108.4]          The Lord has not given up His people to their own way. In mercy He holds them back, although they have pursued a course contrary to His word. They have partially seen the evil of this course, but they have closed their eyes, refusing to make thorough reform, to change their wrong ways and practices.                                            -109-  {15MR 108.4}
[15MR 109.1]          Let them humble their hearts before God. Let them set things in order. Let them move every stumbling block out of the way, that sinners may not fall over them and their lack of Christlike love and tenderness. Let them remember that this is the only way in which they can recover their lost prosperity. It can never come in any other way.  {15MR 109.1}
[15MR 109.2]          When God's people are born again, when they live the new life in Christ, with His love abiding in their hearts, their candlestick will stand securely in its place. But the principles they have followed in their connection with one another need revising. In their unity with one another and with God through Christ is their strength.  {15MR 109.2}
[15MR 109.3]          Christ has specified the measure of love we are to show for one another. "A new commandment I give unto you," He declared, "That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." By this practical love, seen by the world, "shall all men know that ye are My disciples." When the softening, subduing influence of the Spirit of God rules the hearts of those who are connected with His service, they will honor Him by keeping the new commandment, new because Christ said, "As I have loved you, that ye also love one another."  {15MR 109.3}
[15MR 109.4]          The disciples never realized Christ's love for fallen man until they saw it expressed on the cross of Calvary, until He rose from the dead and proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, "I am the resurrection and the life." Lessons have been given in regard to this love which are just as new to us, as far as practice is concerned, as they were to the disciples before the death and resurrection of our Lord. When these lessons are brought into                                            -110-     the practical life, when God's people love one another as He requires them to do, there will be an entire change in the experience of the churches.  {15MR 109.4}
[15MR 110.1]          I am entrusted with a message for every church: "Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." In every line of service all rivalry must be quenched. Heart must be bound to heart. Christian love must be manifested. Then allegiance will be given, as God requires, to Christ and to the brethren for Christ's sake. No mean, cheap actions will grieve the Spirit of God.  {15MR 110.1}
[15MR 110.2]          The light God has given me is that we are treading in the very footsteps of the world. In book making there is a striving for the supremacy. The blessing of the Lord cannot accompany the spirit which for years has been coming in. God says to every soul, "Take heed." The leaven of influence is a powerful thing. Whether good or evil, it gathers all to itself. If the leaven of selfishness, covetousness, and hardheartedness is allowed to enter, it will subdue all the properties of the body to corrupting force. There will be no bowels of mercy, no tender consideration, no fighting against objectionable traits of character, which so quickly develop into giants of evil. Unless this root of bitterness is cast out of the soul, it will continually spring up, and by it many will be defiled. I ask, What are our churches going to do about this matter?  {15MR 110.2}
[15MR 110.3]          A large sum of money was spent in illustrating The Desire of Ages, but this work will not be repeated. If I had known before what I now know, I would never have consented to the Pacific Press expending so much money on illustrations for The Desire of Ages, or to the Echo Office expending so                                      -111-     much on the little book, Christ Our Saviour. Our book making business must be simplified. Trust in God, rather than go down to Egypt to consult idolaters. God is not pleased with the way in which matters have been swayed. Expensive books are not to be brought out so freely as they have been. There are books which are not worthy of the consideration given them.  {15MR 110.3}
[15MR 111.1]          It is not the gilded leaves of a book, not the expensive covers, which testify to its value. It is the truth contained in it. This will make an impression on mind and heart. If the expensive covers, gilt edged leaves, and multitudinous illustrations are dispensed with, the canvassers may not enjoy it. But if they had never had such works to handle, the temptation to drop books of high value and take up books which have a better outside appearance, but which are not of so much importance, would not be so great.  {15MR 111.1}
[15MR 111.2]          There is a large amount of literature to go to the world, and men reason that the more abundant the illustrations, the better and easier the sale of the book. But this reasoning is not always sound. Take The Desire of Ages, for example. If there had not been more than one third of the illustrations in it that there now are, the canvassers would have found in nine cases out of ten that it would have had just as ready a sale as it will have now.  {15MR 111.2}
[15MR 111.3]          And suppose that there were but a quarter the number of illustrations. The canvassers would have to do more earnest service. They would have to make more painstaking effort to become acquainted with the subjects upon which the book treats. And the saving of the money invested in illustrations would enable the publishers to give better terms to canvassers, who would not                                       -112-     then be tempted, in order to make a financial success, to handle books under a confederacy of bribes. But this evil will come in, as it has done already, more or less.  {15MR 111.3}
[15MR 112.1]          Canvassers should be secured to handle the books Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, Desire of Ages, Daniel and the Revelation, and other books of like character, who have a sense of the value of the matter these books contain and a realization of the work to be done to interest people in the truth. Special help, which is above all the supposed advantages of illustrations, will be given to such canvassers. The canvassers who are born again by the work of the Holy Spirit will be accompanied by angels, who will go before them to the dwellings of the people, preparing the way for them.  {15MR 112.1}
[15MR 112.2]          Those selected as canvassers should be men and women who feel the burden of service, who do not work merely for wages, who seek to do the very work that needs to be done to enlighten the world. All our service is to be done to the glory of God, to give the light of truth to those who are in darkness. Canvassers need daily to be converted to God, that their words and deeds may be a savor of life unto life, that they may exert a saving influence upon those with whom they come in contact.  {15MR 112.2}
[15MR 112.3]          Let all study the character which God accepts, as represented in the twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew. If this representation does not educate men and women, what can do the work which must be done for the soul? Mark the division made between those represented by the sheep and the goats, and mark                                        -113-     the words which decide forever the destiny of the two classes. Listen, you who have ears to hear and intellect to comprehend. Listen to the words of the Master: ［Matthew 25:31-40, quoted］.--Manuscript 131, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. September 5, 1985. Entire manuscript.  {15MR 112.3}
[15MR 114.1]       MR No. 1156 - Overuse of Pictures a Species of Idolatry         (Written September 8, 1899, from Strathfield, N.S.W., Australia, to G. A. Irwin.)  {15MR 114.1}
[15MR 114.2]          A warning has been given me in regard to our people. I have been instructed that they are certainly in danger.  {15MR 114.2}
[15MR 114.3]          God declares, "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in the heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My commandments" ［Exodus 20:3-6］.  {15MR 114.3}
[15MR 114.4]          Should we not make investigation in regard to the matter of illustrating our books so largely? Would not the mind have clearer, more perfect ideas of angels, of Christ, of all spiritual things, if no pictures were made to represent heavenly things? Many of the pictures made are grossly false as far as truth is concerned. Do not pictures so far removed from the truth give voice of falsehoods? We want to be true in all our representations of Jesus Christ. But many of the miserable daubs put into our books and papers are an imposition on the public.                                       -115-  {15MR 114.4}
[15MR 115.1]          With this plain "Thus saith the Lord" before us, will we, claiming as we do to live by every word that proceedeth from the mouth of God, be clear if we spend the Lord's money in multiplying faces?  {15MR 115.1}
[15MR 115.2]          Some things have been presented to me which I must set right. In my own home, one after another, pictures have accumulated. I see the same in every home to which I go. Is the Lord in this matter? Does not the charge in the twentieth chapter of Exodus prohibit this multitudinous picture-making which will continue to increase unless there is a decided reform, unless the people of God shall see that there is a decided reform, unless the people of God shall see that they are becoming idolaters? What shall be done in this matter?  {15MR 115.2}
[15MR 115.3]          I have light that to spend so much money in photographs is a species of idolatry. Thus means is consumed which should be used in missionary effort rather than in producing pictures which are not essential.  {15MR 115.3}
[15MR 115.4]          I take my position to no longer run the risk of displeasing God in this matter. I think that if in this our day of test and trial each one of us would study the words Moses was commanded to speak to the people, there would not be in the temple courts those who are in positions of sacred responsibility, yet are weaving into the web of sacred things threads of selfishness, using common fire in the place of the sacred fire of God's own kindling. May the Lord's Holy Spirit work upon human hearts and bring conviction to human minds. Those things of apparently little consequence attract the mind and eye, and absorb the attention at the very time when the attention should be given to God.                                            -116-  {15MR 115.4}
[15MR 116.1]          The question was asked, What does the care and anxiety, the delay in completing the books, and then sending them out weighty with cuts, amount to? The preparation for these attractions costs too much to be continued. The expense in more than one line was opened before me, and the necessity for delay to obtain tardy improvements of illustrations. I am burdened in spirit to say to my brethren who are engaged in book making, You are gathering to yourselves heavy burdens.  {15MR 116.1}
[15MR 116.2]          The transformation in our book making has not brought with it a corresponding transformation of character. The almost endless succession of wearisome research and delay and anxiety, and the great expense in increasing facilities to multiply illustrations is simply leading in advance in a species of idolatry. Harmonious spirit and action are not brought into the work, but instead rivalry and strife. The purse is strained to meet the demand; irrespective of the outlay, pictures must be obtained to meet the tastes of canvasser, publisher, and author. Spiritual rest is not secured by us because men do not yoke up with Christ to learn His meekness and lowliness of heart.  {15MR 116.2}
[15MR 116.3]          While angels are near, ready to make impressions of the highest value on minds, many, as they read on the Sabbath, are attracted by the pictures. They talk of the faces and the scenery. The mind is occupied by matters which are not of the least consequence in our service of God, which make impressions that close the door to spiritual things.  {15MR 116.3}
[15MR 116.4]          We do not show by keeping free from all cheap, common things, which cannot benefit our souls or the souls of others, that we realize that time is of the highest consequence to us. Too often our experience is of a character                                            -117-     that renders it of no value. Man is dwarfed spiritually in proportion as he invests unimportant means and instrumentalities that occupy the time and the mind in carrying them out, making work and business in religious lines take the place of genuine devotion. The process is easy, but what have you? A religious theory, without the Saviour's endorsement, "Well done, good and faithful servant."--Letter 145, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. September 5, 1985. Entire letter.  {15MR 116.4}
[15MR 118.1]       MR No. 1157 - Both Young Teachers and Older Ones Are Needed    (Written June 30, 1902, from Elmshaven, Sanitarium, California, to W. W. Prescott.)  {15MR 118.1}
[15MR 118.2]          I have read Elder Waggoner's letter in regard to his connecting with the Berrien Springs school as Bible teacher. I must say that I know not the voice, neither can I understand the spirit, that prompts the presentation of such propositions. I cannot recognize the voice, neither can I advise Brother Waggoner to come from Europe to take the position of Bible teacher in the school at Berrien Springs, upon the condition named in his letter. When our brethren propose such terms as these to their fellow laborers, we may know that the propositions are not prompted by the Spirit of the Lord.  {15MR 118.2}
[15MR 118.3]          Brother Sutherland and Brother Magan would be making a mistake to give up the work God has entrusted to them, either to Brother Waggoner or to yourself. From the light given me regarding the school at Berrien Springs, I believe that those connected with it are working in right lines. Both Brother Sutherland and Brother Magan are close Bible students.  {15MR 118.3}
[15MR 118.4]          As to Brother Sutherland's age, true, he is young ［31 years old］; but this is in his favor, for he feels that he is a child, dependent on God for wisdom. In some respects, youthful Christians have not so much to battle with as older Christians.                                            -119-  {15MR 118.4}
[15MR 119.1]          Brother Sutherland loves God. He has a godly fear of departing from the counsels of the Lord, which fear I hope will increase and ever be maintained in the simplicity of true godliness. We trust that our brother, whom the Lord loves, will always be as a little child in rendering obedience to God.  {15MR 119.1}
[15MR 119.2]          If those who are old in years would become as meek and lowly as a little child, they would be better prepared to receive and practice Christ's words. The spirit of self-sufficiency is a great hindrance to the working of the Spirit of God in the heart.  {15MR 119.2}
[15MR 119.3]          At one time the disciples came to Jesus, asking, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea."  {15MR 119.3}
[15MR 119.4]          We need much less of self, much more of the meekness and lowliness of Christ. "Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."                                            -120-  {15MR 119.4}
[15MR 120.1]          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 correct every mistake, they will make advancement.  {15MR 120.1}
[15MR 120.2]          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.  {15MR 120.2}
[15MR 120.3]          The inhabitants of heaven declare of the Creator, "Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways Thou King of saints! Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name; for Thou only art holy."  {15MR 120.3}
[15MR 120.4]          The fear spoken of in these words is not a slavish fear, but a thankful, joyous fear, which leads us to watch and wait and work, ready always to obey God gladly and thankfully. Every faculty of the being, every part of the body, testifies to the righteousness of the Creator's claims.  {15MR 120.4}
[15MR 120.5]          God has a right to the service of the beings He has created, a right to expect that they will do their best to glorify Him with every entrusted capability. He requires them to place themselves in His service and to allow Him to direct the use of His absolute property.                                         -121-  {15MR 120.5}
[15MR 121.1]          Let the older workers encourage the younger ones, never speaking lightly or disparagingly of them. He who has helped Brother Sutherland and Brother Magan in their school work in the past will continue to help them if they will steadfastly practice His word. As far as their teaching of the Bible is concerned, if they sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him, their understanding will continually increase, for God is their wisdom, and He will teach them His way.  {15MR 121.1}
[15MR 121.2]          When a man places himself unreservedly under God's guidance, the statements of the Word set his heart free from every evil bias, that he may run in the way of God's commandments. He acknowledges God's ownership. He communes with God in prayer, saying, "I am Thine, O Lord; save me; for I have sought Thy commandments."  {15MR 121.2}
[15MR 121.3]          This is Christian education. The teacher is a continual learner, and is constantly becoming better fitted to teach. He feels that he must be a student with his students in learning of Christ. Angels rejoice at the beauty of the companionship as teachers and students learn of God out of His Word.  {15MR 121.3}
[15MR 121.4]          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.  {15MR 121.4}
[15MR 121.5]         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                                          -122-     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.  {15MR 121.5}
[15MR 122.1]          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, till they are "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." They say, I am the Lord's servant, the property of Christ, sustained by His rich and undeserved mercy. I am His, to glorify Him with my physical, mental, and spiritual capabilities.  {15MR 122.1}
[15MR 122.2]         I wish we could see hundreds of students under the instruction of young men who are apt to teach, who realize that day by day they must be learners in the school of Christ, in order to understand the Scriptures in their simplicity, and to be able to teach them in a way that will make them plain.  {15MR 122.2}
[15MR 122.3]          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 men who are not the most advanced in years and experience.  {15MR 122.3}
[15MR 122.4]          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                                          -123-     aside all hindrances and barriers, exerting upon souls a compelling influence that leads them to give themselves to God in unreserved consecration.  {15MR 122.4}
[15MR 123.1]          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.  {15MR 123.1}
[15MR 123.2]          I have seen so much of what the world calls perfection that I greatly long to see a different kind. The worker whose heart is humble and contrite, who is divested of all pride, will give evidence that he is moved by a power from above. Let us rejoice in our victories. Let there be no moves to tear down. Too much of this has been done. Let us all encourage one another, rejoicing in the Lord.--Letter 102, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. September 5, 1985. Entire letter.  {15MR 123.2}
[15MR 124.1]       MR No. 1158 - Biblical Counsel on Solving Church Difficulties    Self-examination Needed        The state of the church was presented before me. I saw many things in a tangled, perplexed condition. . . .The brethren and sisters are, many of them, unconsecrated, and when individual wrongs are reproved some stand prepared to triumph over those reproved. . . .  {15MR 124.1}
[15MR 124.2]          The church must search carefully in meekness, and with humble hearts, for their own wrongs which have separated God from them. They must remember that the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. Self justification must be laid aside, and all possess yielding spirits. . . .  {15MR 124.2}
[15MR 124.3]          The church must be subject to one another, willing to be counseled, reproved, and directed by the body. Dear self is the most obstinate person the follower of Jesus has to contend with. There must be humility and forbearance in the church. Self must be overcome, and those looking for Christ's appearing must possess the power of endurance and self control if they would have God's Spirit with them. . . .  {15MR 124.3}
[15MR 124.4]          Then God's people were presented before me. Oh, the lack of forbearance and patience with one another, the lack of brotherly love, of meekness, of self control, while professing to be followers of Christ, subjects of His special grace! Oh, what a reproach to Christ! What a reproach to God's cause!                                          -125-     Brethren and sisters professing His name suffer evil traits to appear in their lives, and they are stumbling blocks to those who have not professed to be Christ's followers. The reality of experimental religion and infidelity often blushes at the wayward course of professed Christians.--Letter 16, 1861, pp. 1, 3, 5-6. (Written cir. 1861, to the Church in Roosevelt, N.Y., and vicinity.)  {15MR 124.4}
[15MR 125.1]     Church to Take Responsibility        It was your duty to lay your case in the hands of the church. Let them bear the responsibility. If they err, you are clear. They are accountable and not you.--Letter 5, 1863, pp. 2-3. (Written July 6, 1863, from Battle Creek, Michigan, to Brother and Sister Scott.)  {15MR 125.1}
[15MR 125.2]     Deal Differently With Offenders        We must bear with one another, remembering our failings. With some have compassion, making a difference; others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire. All cannot bear the same rigid discipline. All cannot be brought up to just another's ideas of duty. Allowance must be made for different temperaments and different minds. God knows how to deal with us. But my heart has been sick as I have seen brother deal with brother and the disposition to catch another in his words, and to make a man an offender for a word. . . .  {15MR 125.2}
[15MR 125.3]          I saw that all who profess the truth should unite together to walk in church capacity, to be a mutual strength and help to each other. None should seek or                                        -126-     dare to lord it over God's heritage or dare to hold off and reject any one of their brethren without sufficient cause, but should labor with them and bear with them as long as Jesus has borne with them.--Letter 12, 1863, pp. 2, 4. (Written February 18, 1863, from Battle Creek, Michigan, to Dear Friends at Hanover, N.H.)  {15MR 125.3}
[15MR 126.1]     Do Not Lord It Over Others        Men of God of the clearest minds and of the best capabilities are generally the ones who are the most ready to admit that they have failings and weaknesses and that their own understanding may not be perfect.  {15MR 126.1}
[15MR 126.2]          Humility is the constant attendant of true wisdom. Those who have this grace will patiently listen to the advice and counsel of others and give it due weight. They will not give up their own judgment for another's, but if advice and counsel bear the recommendation of age and experience, they will carefully weigh the matter and incorporate it into their own experience and mind because they see the force of the counsel and advice given. . . .  {15MR 126.2}
[15MR 126.3]          God has in His providence placed the cup of sorrow to your lips that you might sympathize with your brethren who have tasted of its bitterness. To close the soul to human griefs, to make no consideration for circumstances where God's providence is at work upon His suffering children, to force all under any and every circumstance and condition into one groove without reference to God's providences, is a fearful mistake which will react upon our own heads.  {15MR 126.3}
[15MR 126.4]          I was shown that in dealing with our fellowmen we all are to consider that they are of like passions with ourselves, feeling the same weaknesses and                                      -127-     suffering the same temptations. They, with us, have a struggle with life if they maintain their integrity in circumstances of peril, keeping the balance of the mind. We must deal with fellow mortals with kindly compassion and tenderest sympathy. We must cultivate in our character amiable tempers as well as firmness of principles. It is entirely out of place for one fellow laborer to lord it over another. . . .  {15MR 126.4}
[15MR 127.1]          I was shown that God requires true love to unite the hearts of the human brotherhood, and why this love does not flourish is because selfishness, envy, and jealousy exist. True justice will not injure our fellow men, and true politeness will not offend them. . . .  {15MR 127.1}
[15MR 127.2]          God is displeased when fellow laborers in His vineyard shut up their sympathy to themselves, esteem themselves highly, and cannot see the good purposes, the noble efforts, of their fellow laborers, but live as if they felt no pitying love or tender sympathy. I have been shown that love, tender love and consideration for our fellow mortals, needs to be cultivated, for it is very essential and is the most valuable trait of Christian character we can have. . . . We shall be very unhappy if we place ourselves in a position to question and criticize as an enemy every man who does not greet us with a smile. . . .  {15MR 127.2}
[15MR 127.3]          Oh, how many mistakes we make in attempting to judge the motives of our brethren! That which we condemn as grievous wrongs in them are not greater than those that exist in ourselves which we do not discern. . . .  {15MR 127.3}
[15MR 127.4]          God wants this evil to exist no longer. He calls upon us to put away this great sin and to strive to answer the prayer of Christ that His disciples may be one as He is one with the Father that the world may know that the Father had                                          -128-     sent His Son. It is the special work of Satan to cause dissension, that the evidence of oneness which should exist with them might be hindered, that the world should be deprived of the most powerful testimony Christians can give it that God has sent His Son to bring into harmony turbulent, proud, envious, jealous, bigoted minds. . . .  {15MR 127.4}
[15MR 128.1]          We lose much, very much, by lack of love for our brethren and sisters. Our ministering brethren--by their unity, their steadfast love, their delicacy in dealing with their brethren, firmly sustaining one another, their forbearance and sympathy and tender compassion for each other--can give to the churches an example that will rightly represent the life of our Redeemer. The truth of God is not designed merely to deal with errors and vices, and the ministers to feel that they must be reined up to censure and condemn even if they see existing wrongs. Frequently the very best way to cure the evil is to let those who are wrong see the heart of the minister of God softened and tender and pitiful, His bosom full of the milk of human kindness.  {15MR 128.1}
[15MR 128.2]          The truth is designed to sanctify the receiver, to fashion and mold the entire man, externally as well as internally, by abasing pride and disposing his heart to be kind and amiable and condescending. Yes, the religion of Christ is a system of the truest politeness, and its triumphs are complete when a world may look on a people professing godliness with a united front, believers showing habitual tenderness of feeling and kindness of deportment and sincere regard for the reputation of each other. We may not look for the approval of God unless we work to the point of habitual kindness, acting upon the principles of the gospel. Tender mercy is to soften whatever is harsh in the disposition and to                                         -129-     smooth, refine, and elevate whatever is course and rough in deportment. Love and faith carried out in our words and actions bear a testimony to the world that they cannot resist. It is the most powerful ministry that a church can have.--Letter 25, 1870, pp. 4-5, 7-11. (A Testimony Regarding Elder and Mrs. D. T. Bourdeau, written cir. 1870, from Battle Creek, Michigan.］  {15MR 128.2}
[15MR 129.1]     Each to Work, and Encourage Others        The most prosperous church will backslide under the most powerful preaching unless the people awake to the necessity of individual effort. The followers of Christ cannot advance and grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus unless they are, individually, workers. If they do nothing themselves, and expect to retain life and vitality, they will be disappointed and then fall into temptation and great spiritual weakness. . . .  {15MR 129.1}
[15MR 129.2]          Second, I know that one of the greatest sins that the ［Battle Creek］ church is guilty of is that of being cold and indifferent in regard to the spiritual interest of the brethren and sisters. Each should feel a responsibility resting upon him to see that his brethren and sisters prosper in their religious life.--Letter 10, 1872, p. 1. (Written July 4, 1872, from Ottawa, Kansas, to Edson and Emma.)  {15MR 129.2}
[15MR 129.3]     Church Authority to Be Recognized        It becomes us to cultivate a deference to other people's judgment when we are absolutely dependent to a greater or less extent upon one another. We should cultivate true Christian courtesy and tender sympathy even for the roughest, hardest cases of humanity. Jesus came from the pure courts of heaven to save just such. . . .                                       -130-  {15MR 129.3}
[15MR 130.1]          The world's Redeemer has invested His church with great power. He states the rules to be carried in cases of trial with its members. After He has given explicit directions as to the course to be pursued, He says, "Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever (in church discipline) ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven" (Matthew 8:18). Thus the highest authority, even the heavenly, ratifies the discipline of the church in regard to its members when the Bible rule has been followed.  {15MR 130.1}
[15MR 130.2]          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. Unless there was church discipline and church governments, the church would go to fragments. They could not hold together as a body. . . .  {15MR 130.2}
[15MR 130.3]          In the conversion of Paul is given us important principles, which we should ever bear in mind.  {15MR 130.3}
[15MR 130.4]          The Redeemer of the world does not sanction the experience and exercises in religious matters independent of His organized and acknowledged church, where He has a church.  {15MR 130.4}
[15MR 130.5]          Many have the idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and their experience independent of Christ's acknowledged body in the world. But this is condemned by Jesus Christ in His teachings and in the examples of facts given to us for our instruction. Here was Paul directly brought into the presence of Christ,--One whom Christ was to fit for                                           -131-     a most important work, one who was to be a chosen vessel unto Him--yet He does not teach him the lessons of truth he must learn; He arrests his course, He convicts him. He asks Christ, "What wilt Thou have me to do?" The Saviour does not tell him directly but places him in His direction in connection with His church--They will tell thee what thou must do.  {15MR 130.5}
[15MR 131.1]          Jesus was the sinner's friend; His heart was ever open, ever touched with human woe. He has all power both in heaven and upon earth, but He respects the means He has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men. He directs Saul to the church, thus acknowledging the power He has placed upon the church as a channel of light to the world. It is Christ's organized body upon the earth, and respect was required to be paid to His ordinances. Ananias represents Christ in the case of Saul. He also represents Christ's ministers upon the earth who are appointed to act in Christ's stead.  {15MR 131.1}
[15MR 131.2]          Saul was a learned teacher in Israel, but while ［he was］ under the influence of blind error and prejudice Christ reveals Himself to him and then places him in communication with His church, the light of the world. They were to instruct this educated, popular orator in the Christian religion. In Christ's stead, Ananias touches his eyes that they may receive sight. In Christ's stead he lays his hands upon him, and praying in Christ's name, Saul receives the Holy Ghost. All is done in the name and authority of Christ.  {15MR 131.2}
[15MR 131.3]          Christ is the foundation; the church is the channel of communication. Those who boast of personal independence need to be brought into closer relation to                                           -132-     Christ by closer communion with His church upon the earth.--Letter 54, 1874, pp. 12, 19, 24-26. (Written October 24, 1874, from Battle Creek, Michigan, to Brother Lee.)  {15MR 131.3}
[15MR 132.1]     Worth of a Soul        Our ministers must feel the peril as well as the worth of souls. Never can the worth of a soul be estimated, except through the cross and in measuring eternity. A sinner saved from death is to save other souls from death.--Letter 37, 1878, p. 4. (Written June 28, 1878, from Salem, Oregon, to James White.)  {15MR 132.1}
[15MR 132.2]     The Evils of Pharisaism        In every age of the world there have been some who professed Christ while they were pursuing an erroneous course of seclusion or of Pharisaical preeminence. But they have not blessed their fellow men. They have found no excuse in the life of Christ for this self-righteous bigotry, for His character was genial and beneficent. He would have been excluded from every monastic order on earth because of overstepping their prescribed rules.  {15MR 132.2}
[15MR 132.3]          In every church and denomination are to be found erratics who would have blamed him for His liberal mercies; they would have accused Him of worldly conformity in attending a wedding feast; and would have censured him severely, and criticized his conduct unmercifully for permitting His friends to make a supper in honor of Himself and His disciples. But on these very occasions, by His precious teachings and by His generous conduct, He was enshrining Himself in the hearts of those whom He honored with His presence. He was thus giving them                                           -133-     an opportunity to become acquainted with Himself, so that they might have a knowledge of His character, and might see the marked contrast which His life and teachings presented to that of the Pharisees who were spies upon His track, condemning every move He made which was not in harmony with their bigoted, selfish ideas of salvation.  {15MR 132.3}
[15MR 133.1]          While we may maintain a firm trust in God, receiving light and strength and power from Him, it is our duty to let the light reflected upon us shine forth to others, that the world may see this light in contrast with the darkness of error and superstition. My dear brethren in Switzerland, you have much to learn. There is an icy chilliness, a reserve, like that of the Pharisees, that must be broken down. You are not willing to become learners, but, like the Pharisees, desire to be dictators, teachers.  {15MR 133.1}
[15MR 133.2]          God sent His Son to give the Pharisees a better understanding of His claims, a more perfect knowledge of the truth, and to show them the best manner in which to help their fellow men. But they refused the divine instruction. They thought Christ was too liberal. His ways did not agree with their ways; and instead of thinking the improvement must be made in their lives, to bring them into harmony with the life of Christ, they wanted to convert Christ to a unison with them. They thought His differing in manner from them would hurt their influence and disannul their teachings. They refused to cooperate with Christ, and thus cast their influence against Him, working out their own purposes, which placed them in irretrievable darkness.  {15MR 133.2}
[15MR 133.3]          Those with whom God has entrusted His truth must so order their intercourse with the world as to secure to themselves a calm, hallowed peace, as well as a                                           -134-     sacred and most thorough knowledge of how to meet men with their prejudices, where they are, and minister to them the light, comfort, and peace found in the acceptance of the truth of God. They should take for example the inspiring, authoritative, and social life of Christ. They must cultivate the same beneficent spirit which He possessed, and must cherish the same broad plans of action in meeting men where they are.  {15MR 133.3}
[15MR 134.1]          They should have a kind, generous spirit toward the poor, and in a special sense feel that we are God's stewards. They must hold all they have as not their own, but lent them in trust to advance the cause of Christ upon the earth. Like Christ, they should not shun the society of their fellow men, but encourage it, with the purpose of bestowing upon others the heavenly benefits God has given them.--Letter 2a, 1878, pp. 3-4. (Written August 29, 1878, from Ballardvale, Mass., to Brethren in Switzerland.)  {15MR 134.1}
[15MR 134.2]     Cases to Be Investigated Carefully; Patience and Kindness to Be Shown the Erring        But there is a class in the church who are a living contradiction of the name Christian--a class that have ruled at home with a sharp, dictatorial, unchristian spirit. Their ideas and opinions must bear sway; their hearts are filled with selfishness; they are constantly exalting self and finding fault with others who are better than themselves. They pass censure and harsh judgment upon others, while their own course appears right in their own eyes. They put their hands to a work which God has not given them, but leave undone the work he has left for them to do, which is to take heed to themselves lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble the church and defile it.                                       -135-  {15MR 134.2}
[15MR 135.1]          They turn their eyes outward to watch lest the character of others should not be right, when their eyes should be turned inward to scan and criticize their own actions, testing their feelings and motives by the law of God, the only standard of right, and emptying from the heart love of self, envy, evil surmising, jealousy, malice, unkindness, and self-esteem. When they do this, they will not be climbing upon the judgment seat and pronouncing sentence upon others who are in God's sight better than they. The simple reason of all the difficulty is, their religious life is not well built; there is not underlying godliness based on Jesus Christ; and the first gale of temptation sweeps their foundation from under them. This has caused all the difficulties in the church. . . .  {15MR 135.1}
[15MR 135.2]          At some appointed time the subject should be patiently considered, and in the fear of God, with much humility and sorrow for the erring who are the purchase of the blood of Christ, with earnest, humble prayer, the proper officers should deal with the offenders. How different has been the course when, with self-assumed authority and a hard, unfeeling spirit, accusations have been made, and souls have been thrust out of the church of Christ.  {15MR 135.2}
[15MR 135.3]          The matter should be thoroughly investigated before any action is taken. Let such questions as the following be carefully considered: What is the charge brought against the erring? Has the law of God been willfully transgressed? Has the offender been dishonest in his dealings with his brethren or the world? Has he been guilty of licentious conduct? Has he been untruthful? Has he practiced deception? Has he been severe, overbearing, and abusive in his family, with his neighbors, his brethren, or worldlings? Has he shown a spirit                                       -136-     of penuriousness, selfishness, covetousness, of doubt, fault-finding, or talebearing? Has he talked of the faults of his brethren, magnifying their wrongs and cherishing a spirit of bitterness toward them, thus endangering the prosperity and unity of the church?  {15MR 135.3}
[15MR 136.1]         All these points require careful consideration, but the next question is, What course has been pursued toward the erring? Has the Bible rule been followed to the letter? Read before the church the rules given them by their Captain, and let the question be asked, Have they obeyed orders like faithful soldiers in the army? To go contrary to the positive orders of the Captain of our salvation is deserving of severest censure by those whom God has placed in authority. . . .  {15MR 136.1}
[15MR 136.2]          There is always danger and trouble in any church which is composed mostly of family connections. This is the course of the Ligonier church. Relatives who are unconsecrated sympathize with one another, and thus a sinful harmony exists among them. Jesus is united to His people by a love far greater and more enduring than ever bound together the hearts of human kindred; and this love, so deep, so unchanging, is a continual assurance of His faithfulness to support the weak, confirm the wavering, comfort the feeble-minded, and to bind up the bruises of the soul. Oh, wondrous love, that should lead the Saviour to yield up His honor, His glory, His royal throne and royal court, and for our sakes become poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich! . . .  {15MR 136.2}
[15MR 136.3]          If a brother is supposed to err, his brethren and sisters should not whisper it among themselves and comment upon it, magnifying supposed errors and faults. Much of this work is done in the Ligonier church, and the result is, the                                       -137-     displeasure of God is upon those who do it, and Satan exults that he can weaken and annoy those who might be strong in the Lord. The world sees their weakness, and judges this class and the truth they profess to love, by the fruits manifested in them.  {15MR 136.3}
[15MR 137.1]          "Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? 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. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved" ［Psalms 15:1-5］. Here the backbiter is excluded from abiding in the tabernacle of God and dwelling in the holy hill of Zion. He that taketh up a reproach against his neighbor can not receive the approval of God. . . .  {15MR 137.1}
[15MR 137.2]          There are in the church unconsecrated, unconverted men and women who think more of maintaining their own dignity and their own opinions than they do of the salvation of their fellow creatures, and Satan works upon these to stir up difficulties that consume the time and labor of the minister, and many souls are lost as the result.  {15MR 137.2}
[15MR 137.3]          The minister also is placed in a most unenviable position; for, though he should decide ever so wisely, his decision must displease someone, and thus a party spirit is strengthened, when, had he refused to leave his work, his influence would have been preserved.                                      -138-  {15MR 137.3}
[15MR 138.1]          Ministers and lay members of the church displease God when they allow individuals to tell them the errors and faults of their brethren. They should not listen to these reports, but should inquire, "Have you strictly followed the injunction of your Saviour? Have you gone to the offender and told him his faults between you and him alone, and has he refused to hear you? Have you carefully and prayerfully taken two or three others, and labored with him in tenderness, humility, and meekness, your heart throbbing in love for his soul? If the Captain's orders, in the rules given for the erring, have been strictly followed, then an advance step is to be taken. Tell it to the church, and let action be taken in the case according to the Scriptures. Then it is that heaven will ratify the decision made by the church in cutting off the offending member if he does not repent.  {15MR 138.1}
[15MR 138.2]         If these steps have not been taken, close the ear to their complaints, and thus refuse to take up a reproach against your neighbor. Listening to the reports of evil is taking up a reproach. If there were no brethren and sisters to do this, evil tongues would soon cease, for they would not find so fruitful a field in which to work in backbiting and devouring one another. . . .  {15MR 138.2}
[15MR 138.3]          Some precious souls that could not justify the unchristian course pursued toward Brother J and others, have been crowded until they have separated from the church. Others have been cut off for no cause except bitter enmity because they did not act in harmony with the wishes and ideas of the leaders. Such a spirit has taken possession of those leaders who have ever been determined to rule, that they have been controlled by Satan rather than by the spirit of Christ. Some who have been deprived of the fellowship of the church were far more worthy of a place in it than are those who with their longer experience have been so overbearing and so anxious to drive out their brethren.                                       -139-  {15MR 138.3}
[15MR 139.1]          The unreasonable, unchristian course of men and women who had more zeal than knowledge or piety, has displeased and dishonored God. He calls upon them to repent. Some have taken the position that those who use tobacco should be dealt with and turned out of the church at once; but with some who would engage in this work there are greater defilements of the soul-temple than tobacco can make. In all our experience for many years, not a case of this kind has been thus treated. We have borne for years with those in the slavery of habit, and unless there was some other cause for such action, we have not felt at liberty to deal with them or separate them from the church. We have prayed and labored with them, and in many cases have after a time succeeded in winning them fully. Those who did not reform, became lax in other things, and gave up their efforts to overcome, so that offenses of a grievous character occurred that required action on the part of the church.  {15MR 139.1}
[15MR 139.2]          The responsibility of dealing with the cases last mentioned was not assumed by the resident elder or deacon, or by any member of the church. For months, and sometimes for years, the church waited patiently for wise counselors; and every move was made with the greatest caution. Hasty decisions in such cases show greater zeal than wisdom or spirituality. They reveal a self-sufficient, self-important, bigoted spirit, which will injure, and, if tolerated, ruin any church. . . .  {15MR 139.2}
[15MR 139.3]          Men and women who had no connection with God themselves felt competent to instruct, reprove, and condemn those far above them in the scale of intelligence and moral worth. . . . It is their lack of the Spirit of God that leads them into their unquiet, censorious, condemning course. . . .                                       -140-  {15MR 139.3}
[15MR 140.1]          Although aware of the defiling nature and injurious effects of tobacco, the Doctor has indulged in its use for many years. This is a habit which is annoying to him, and which God would have him overcome. In the name of Jesus, the mighty Conqueror, he can triumph over this defiling practice, and at last wear the victor's crown.  {15MR 140.1}
[15MR 140.2]          Brother J has not submitted, with a good grace, to the treatment he has received; he has been harsh, severe, and unyielding. Human nature would not endure dictation from those whose character and deportment contradicted their profession. The course of these persons was uncourteous and unreasonable. Passion and prejudice bore sway, and the spirit of truth and holiness was driven out. While they were willing that Brother J's money should aid the church, many were not willing that he should have any voice in controlling its affairs.  {15MR 140.2}
[15MR 140.3]          Those who have been thus forward and officious, need to become acquainted with the dear Saviour; for they know Him not. He is the eternal guardian of justice. He can never be excluded from any transaction in which the rights of His followers are concerned. His hand is ever spread as a buckler over the humblest of His children, and none can harm them without smiting that hand. . . .  {15MR 140.3}
[15MR 140.4]          Many are partaking of the spirit indulged by Sister Q--a driving, censorious, dictatorial spirit. Oh, I would that it might be banished from the hearts of all who profess the faith! But if this cannot be, then it is necessary, for the salvation of the remaining members, that all who stir up strife be separated from the church. . . .  {15MR 140.4}
[15MR 140.5]          There may be in the church those who do not honor the cause of God, whose lives and characters reveal the deformity of sin. But we must bear long even                                         -141-     with these, remembering how Jesus bears with us; how sinful we have been, and how He loves us still. Christ paid an infinite price to redeem us from ruin and despair, and with hearts filled with gratitude to God, we should manifest toward others the same love, tenderness, and forbearance, that we would have Him exercise toward us as sinful, erring mortals. While we need grace and mercy every moment, and forgiveness daily, how unbecoming for us to be so ready to criticize, censure, and condemn our brethren who are of like passions with ourselves.  {15MR 140.5}
[15MR 141.1]          The reproof given by our Redeemer condemns all this. Such conduct is the result of self-esteem and self-exaltation; persons strive for the supremacy, and become envious and jealous lest others shall come in and fill a higher place than they themselves occupy. But the teachings of Christ on this point are clear and decided: "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." We must constantly cherish meekness and humility, if we would possess the spirit of Christ.  {15MR 141.1}
[15MR 141.2]          The parable of the lost sheep is a forcible illustration of the Saviour's love for the erring. The shepherd leaves the ninety and nine in the shelter of the fold, while he goes out to search for the one lost, perishing sheep; and when it is found, he places it upon his shoulder, and returns with rejoicing. He did not find fault with the straying sheep; he did not say, "Let him go if he will," but he went forth amid frost and sleet and tempest, to save the one that was lost. And he patiently continued his search until the object of his solicitude was found.  {15MR 141.2}
[15MR 141.3]          Thus are we to treat the erring, wandering one. We should be ready to sacrifice our own ease and comfort when a soul for whom Christ died is in peril.                                         -142-     Said Jesus, "Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more that over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance." As joy was manifested at the recovery of the one lost sheep, so will exceeding joy and gratitude be manifested by the true servants of Christ when one soul is saved from death.  {15MR 141.3}
[15MR 142.1]          A reckless disregard for souls has been manifested by the church at Ligonier. Many cherish the spirit of the self-righteous Pharisees, who sought to be first in everything. They loved the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues; but they shut up the kingdom of heaven against men, neither going in themselves nor permitting others to enter. They for a pretense made long prayers, but secretly devoured widows' houses. They paid tithes of mint and anise and cummin, but neglected the weightier matters of the law--judgment, mercy, and the love of God. They appeared to love the truth and to be very zealous for the cause of God, while their hearts were unsubdued, unsanctified, and unhumbled, open to envy, jealousy, hatred, and malice.  {15MR 142.1}
[15MR 142.2]          Christ teaches all who believe on His name, that instead of seeking their own glory they must humble themselves to bear the cross and to walk in His footsteps. He would reform others must first reform himself. He must obtain the spirit of his Master, and be willing like Him, to suffer reproach, and to practice self-denial. In comparison with the worth of one soul, the whole world sinks into insignificance. A desire to exercise authority, to lord it over God's heritage, will, if indulged, result in the loss of souls. Those who really love Jesus will seek to conform their own lives to the Pattern, and will labor in His spirit for the salvation of others.                                         -143-  {15MR 142.2}
[15MR 143.1]          Persons are attracted by sympathy and love, and many may thus be won to the ranks of Christ and reform; but they cannot be forced or driven. Christian forbearance, candor, consideration, and courtesy toward all who do not see the truth as we do, will exert a powerful influence for good. We must learn not to move too fast and require too much of those who are newly converted to the truth. . . .  {15MR 143.1}
[15MR 143.2]          We profess to be the depositaries of God's law; we claim to have greater light and to aim at a higher standard than any other people upon the earth; therefore we should show greater perfection of character and more earnest devotion. A most solemn message has been entrusted to those who have received the light of truth. Our light should shine forth to brighten the pathway of those who are in darkness. As members of the visible church, and workers in the vineyard of the Lord, all professed Christians should do their utmost to preserve peace, harmony, and love in the church. Mark the prayer of Christ: "That they all may be one, as Thou, Father, art in Me, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me."  {15MR 143.2}
[15MR 143.3]          The unity of the church is the convincing evidence that God has sent Jesus into the world as its Redeemer. This is an argument which worldlings can neither withstand nor controvert. Therefore Satan is constantly working to prevent this union and harmony, that unbelievers, by witnessing backbiting, dissension, and strife among professed Christians, may become disgusted with religion, and be confirmed in their impenitence. God is dishonored by those who profess the truth while they are at variance and enmity with one another. Satan is the great accuser of the brethren, and all who engage in this work are enlisted in his service.                                           -144-  {15MR 143.3}
[15MR 144.1]          We profess to have more truth than other denominations, yet if this does not lead to greater consecration, and purer and holier lives, of what benefit is the truth to us? It would be better for us never to have seen the light of truth, than to profess to accept it, and not be sanctified through it. . . .  {15MR 144.1}
[15MR 144.2]          The worth of a soul cannot be fully estimated by finite minds. How gratefully will the ransomed and glorified ones remember those who were instrumental in their salvation! No one will then regret his self-denying efforts and persevering labors, his patience, forbearance, and earnest heart-yearnings for souls that might have been lost had he neglected his duty or become weary in well doing.--Manuscript 1, 1878, pp. 4-11, 15-18, 20-25. (Written to the church at Ligonier, Indiana.)  {15MR 144.2}
[15MR 144.3]    More Love Needed        I received your letter while in the midst of the Conference duties. Since that meeting closed I have been sorely afflicted with my teeth, and I am in such a state of nervous weakness that I cannot write as lengthily as I would be pleased to do.  {15MR 144.3}
[15MR 144.4]          I have been unable as yet to find the writings which you mention, but I may find them, and if I do will send them to you. I will say that the difficulties which have existed in the church are all unnecessary. The troubles exist because of the misunderstanding of what constitutes true Christian charity, brotherly affection, and Christlike love. There is far more self-love, self-esteem, far more talking among men and women than is essential. You have been measuring yourselves by yourselves, comparing yourselves among yourselves,                                          -145-     taking it for granted that all your feelings and surmisings and suspicions were correct, when if such feelings and suspicions and judging of one another are continued there will be discord, strife, and an unhealthy state of the church.  {15MR 144.4}
[15MR 145.1]          If you will meet together once or twice a week in the evening, and with humble minds, feeling your own weakness and defects, will ask the Lord to enlighten your understandings and fill your hearts with His love, and examine, not one another, but the Scriptures, Satan will be defeated. Many imaginary difficulties, mere mole-hills, have been magnified into mountains that have made barriers between brethren. Love, compassion, and respect cherished for one another should take the place of jangling and accusation.  {15MR 145.1}
[15MR 145.2]          When you begin to give your minds to the work of judging your brethren, you are doing the work God has not given you to do. You are not working with Christ. God did not place you upon the judgment seat to measure and pronounce sentence upon your brethren. Satan is an accuser of the brethren, and when he can set the leaven of disaffection to work in human hearts, he is exultant. When he can divide brethren he has a hellish jubilee. I think if our brethren could see as I have seen how much wrong is done in speaking evil of our brethren there would be an entire change in the way you treat one another. You do not understand yourselves; you misinterpret words and deeds and measure them from your own finite standpoint. Your feelings, your tongues, which are not sanctified, are employed in a service and work that is anything but holy and Christlike.  {15MR 145.2}
[15MR 145.3]          Brother Buckner, bring the attractiveness of Christ into your Christian service. Let the soft beams of the Sun of Righteousness into your heart and you                                            -146-     will be more pleasant and cheerful. If you do this you will have a strong and blessed influence on all around you. The truth of Jesus Christ is not gloom and sadness. Do not forget, my brother, that we are in Christ's school to learn lessons of truthfulness and love. We are taught in this school to have faith in our Redeemer. We must attend carefully to our own soul's necessity, improving every privilege provided for us to learn the meekness and lowliness of Christ.  {15MR 145.3}
[15MR 146.1]          We will have to learn the benefits of trials, and not be discouraged under them. The heart must be disciplined, faith must be cultivated, the power of the soul's endurance must be tested. The simplicity of faith and perfect confidence in God needs to be encouraged in your hearts. You must be constantly looking and talking on the bright side, and while the work of self-discipline must be carried on by every individual Christian, it must be in such a manner as to exalt and ennoble, and not to contract and center on little things. Your thoughts should be a growth of holy principles. Do not center your minds on your poor selves, and do not make a brother an offender for a word. Do not judge him by your own finite measurement. Let the voice of simple, trustful, earnest prayer be heard in your dwelling. When our sisters visit one another let them never speak words of criticism of their brethren. Let your minds dwell upon the attributes and experiences of the love of Jesus. The fullness of that love will prove a soother of little bruises, inconveniences, and disagreeable occurrences.                         "O what peace we often forfeit,                          O what needless pain we bear,                          All because we do not carry                          Everything to God in prayer."                                            -147-     How much sweet peace we lose because we keep poring over the disagreeable items in ourselves and in our brethren. We must look away from the disagreeable to Jesus. We must love Him more, obtain more of His attractive beauty and grace of character, and cease filling the mind with the contemplation of others' mistakes and others' errors. No one is perfect but Jesus. Think of Him and be charmed away from yourself and from every disagreeable thing; for beholding our defects faith is weakened. Faith in God and His promises is lost sight of.  {15MR 146.1}
[15MR 147.1]          Let me tell you, brethren in the church at Lemoore, you need more of Jesus and less of self. Think no evil; talk no evil of anyone; keep your lips as with a bridle. You cannot measure others' experience by your own. It would be a deplorable thing if everyone was of the same mind. If all were just like Brother Buckner in religious experience, there would be a wonderful want of fullness in church labor, in carrying forward the work of God. I do not write this to discourage you, but to help you.  {15MR 147.1}
[15MR 147.2]         Brother Buckner is worn and feeble; he needs the help of stronger men, and the church needs the help of stronger men. What if Brother Harvey Grey has made mistakes? What if in some respects we do err, does the Lord forsake us, and forget us, and leave us to our own ways? No, the Lord does not treat us as we wish to treat one another. May the Lord help you all to repent and confess and let the love of Jesus pervade your hearts. Jealousy is all ready to spring into existence at the least provocation. Envy, and evil surmising is ready to be indulged, ready to grow by being cultivated.  {15MR 147.2}
[15MR 147.3]          Oh, how many hurt the heart of Christ because they want their own way, and their own will. Let the warfare be turned against these unenviable traits of                                            -148-     character, and then they will not be against one another in the church of the living God. If there were only such elements existing in the church as characterized the life of Jesus Christ, there would be a firm union. The world is against the church to weaken and destroy it, but let the church of God press together, press together, press together. Let not Satan thrust himself between the members of the church. Do not give one stroke on the enemy's side of the question. Put away egotism. Do not think that one or two men in the church are all the men who are conscientious in the church. You are far too narrow in your thoughts and in your actions.  {15MR 147.3}
[15MR 148.1]          Could the state of every human heart reputed eminent for holiness be critically examined and developed, there would be seen some dark chapters of distrust of God. What erroneous ideas of what constitute a Christian life we would find. What false ideas of God's prerogatives and of His moral government; what feeble, inefficient ideas of the atonement; what limiting of the powers of the Holy One of Israel in the agency of the Holy Spirit, would be seen.  {15MR 148.1}
[15MR 148.2]          I know you all are earnestly struggling after the higher life and for clearer views of heavenly things, yet how slow the progress. How difficult for the mind to rise to the full assurance of hope that maketh not ashamed. In spite of all our efforts, we are often discouraged because the flesh warreth against the spirit. Let not the common cheap things engross the mind that the presence of Jesus shall be withdrawn. The life of the church is communicated from Christ, and He to the church, and we help the church when we work in harmony with the life giving power, when we lose sight of ourselves and seek to build one another up in the most holy faith.                                            -149-  {15MR 148.2}
[15MR 149.1]          There may be instrumentalities which we do not prefer because they do not exactly meet our ideas. They do not work in the very line we have marked, and in the place of leaving them with God we begin to lay difficulties and barricades in the way and cherish a grieved feeling because we see that they are doing a work which we ourselves cannot do. Then comes the picking, the dissecting of character, the talking, the gathering up of tidbits of complaint, and faultfinding and slander magnifies little occurrences and events into grave sins. This has been done with the church at Lemoore until you are a weak church, and you always will be weak until this narrow order of things is changed. May the Lord show you all what to do that you may be filled with thanksgiving, gratitude, and praise to God for the precious gift of the Son of God, and not with envying, jealousies, and rivalries. Then true love and unity will exist.  {15MR 149.1}
[15MR 149.2]          Christ prayed that His disciples might be one, even as He and His Father are one. In what does this unity consist? That oneness does not consist in everyone having the same disposition, the very same temperament, that makes all run in the very same channel. All do not possess the same degree of intelligence. All have not the same experience. In a church there are different gifts and varied experiences. In temporal matters there is a great variety of ways of management, and yet none of these variations in manner of labor, in exercise of gifts, need to create dissension and discord and disunion. One man may be conversant with the Scriptures, and some particular portion of the Scripture is especially appreciated by him because he has seen it in a certain striking light; another sees another portion as very important; and thus                                            -150-     one and another presents the very points to the people that appear of highest value. This is all in the order of God. One man blunders in his interpretation of some portion of the Scripture, but shall this cause diversity and disunion? God forbid. We cannot then take a position that the unity of the church consists in viewing every text of Scripture in the very same shade of light.  {15MR 149.2}
[15MR 150.1]          The church may pass resolution upon resolution to put down all disagreement of opinions, but we cannot force the mind and will, and thus root out disagreement. These resolutions may conceal the discord but they cannot quench it and establish a perfect agreement. Nothing can perfect a perfect unity in the church but the spirit of Christlike forbearance. Satan can sow discord; Christ alone can harmonize the disagreeing elements. Then let every soul sit down in Christ's school and learn of Christ who declares Himself to be meek and lowly of heart; and Christ declares that if we learn of Him, then our worries will cease, and we shall find rest to our souls.  {15MR 150.1}
[15MR 150.2]          The great truths of the Word of God are so clearly stated that none need make a mistake in understanding them. When you as individual members of the church love God supremely and your neighbor as yourself, then there will be no labored efforts to be in unity; there will be a oneness in Christ, the ears to reports will be closed, and no one will take up a reproach against his neighbor. The members of the church will cherish love and unity and be as one great family. Then we shall bear the credentials to the world that will testify that God has sent His Son into the world. Christ has said, "By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another." The divinity of Christ is acknowledged in the unity of the children of God. Brethren, when you                                        -151-     humble your hearts before God you will see that there is danger of Phariseeism, danger of thinking and praying as did the self-righteous Pharisee. "I thank God that I am not as other men are." Oh, that there may be a breaking up of the fallow ground of the heart, that the seeds of truth may take deep root and spring up and bear much fruit to the glory of God.  {15MR 150.2}
[15MR 151.1]          When, my brethren, you would accuse one of the brethren, consider the words of Jesus, "He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone." Your sin may not be the particular sin that is under consideration, but Jesus's words meant that when you are free from sin you may cast the first stone. When Jesus spoke these words to the accusers, their guilty consciences were aroused. They could not answer Him. They were convicted each in his own conscience, and they went out one by one, beginning at the eldest even to the youngest.  {15MR 151.1}
[15MR 151.2]          What can Christ, who is so forgiving, so patient with all our mistakes, so rich in mercy and love, think of our hardhearted criticism and fault-finding? Love for your erring brethren will produce far greater effect in reforming him than all your harsh criticisms. Let all the thoughts and emotions of the heart be after Christ's order. Let self be put out of sight. The Lord would have the thoughts and the language and the experience of Christian life far more attractive than it is today. If they are not more like Jesus, they can never be the light of the world.  {15MR 151.2}
[15MR 151.3]          When you assemble together, do not dishonor God by criticizing the worshipers and picking flaws in the characters of your brethren. Your work is between God and your own individual soul. What are you thinking of, my brethren? There is work to do in the saving of souls around you, and precious                                       -152-     time is passing. The hours of probation will soon close. Is your work for the Master of that character that you will hear the "Well done good and faithful servant?" Remember that every soul making efforts in the divine life, finds every inch of ground disputed by antagonistic force, and he must gird himself for the conflict by earnest prayer, and fight the good fight of faith. He is called to 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. There is no strength to be invested in warring against each other. If individually we make progress in spirituality the loins must be girt about with truth, and we must have on the breastplate of righteousness; we must take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. Brethren, seek God. Seek Him while He is to be found; call upon Him while He is near.  {15MR 151.3}
[15MR 152.1]         Oh, what experiences we might gain if we were devoting all our God-given ability to seeking knowledge and spiritual strength from God in the place of devoting our powers to hurting one another. How unsearchable are His judgments. Brethren, love one another as Christ has loved you. How little we really know of sweet communion with God; how little we know of the mysteries of the future life. Let us put our mind on these things. We may know far more than we do know if all our powers are sanctified to discern the blessed features of the character of Christ. There are heights for us to reach, depths of experience to sound, if we are to be the light of the world. Then why dishonor God by contention and strife? Why question and find fault with one another? Why misinterpret and misconstrue the words and acts of your brethren? Is there not better work for you to do than to discourage one another and try to put out the light of your brethren?                                       -153-  {15MR 152.1}
[15MR 153.1]          Let the capacities of the mind expand that you may take in the heavenly beauties and the blessed promises. Only believe in Jesus and learn in the school of the greatest Teacher the world ever knew, and His grace will act mightily upon the intellect and heart. This teaching gives clearness to the mental vision. It gives compass to the power of the thoughts; ideas are created, the soul hunger is filled. The heart is softened and subdued and filled with glowing love that neither discouragement, despondency, affliction, or trial can quench. God will open to the mind's eye His preciousness and His fullness.  {15MR 153.1}
[15MR 153.2]          Then let us labor and love. I point you to the Rock of Ages, Christ Jesus. You can be saved only through Him. Let the praise of God be upon your lips when you meet together in little companies to worship God. Let not one man do much of the talking. Let several take part. He who heard the voice of Christ and did His will was the wise man that built upon the rock, and storm nor tempest could not destroy this structure. We are workers for time and for eternity.  {15MR 153.2}
[15MR 153.3]          I write to you to love one another. Try the art of forgiving one another even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven your sins.--Letter 29, 1889. (Written November 8, 1889, from Battle Creek, Michigan, to Brother and Sister Buckner.)  {15MR 153.3}
[15MR 153.4]          Let every member of the church try to save the souls of others, and not seek to discourage or destroy them through criticism or evil reports. How many and how great evils would be extinguished in the church if men would follow Christ's rule of dealing with the erring instead of following the impulses and passions of their unsanctified hearts. If matters of difficulty between brethren are not                                        -154-     laid open to others, but frankly spoken of between themselves in the spirit of Christian love, the difficulty would in nearly every case be healed and the offending brother won. Misunderstandings have arisen that have been thus explained, in Christian tenderness, and the breach has been healed.  {15MR 153.4}
[15MR 154.1]          When brethren come together in harmony with the directions of Christ, Jesus Himself is a witness to the scene, and the whole universe looks with intense interest upon those who not only believe but do the words of Christ. The Spirit of God will move upon the heart of him who has erred, when Christ's words are carried out, and the one at fault will be convicted of his error. But if he is too proud, too self-sufficient, to confess his mistake and heal the wrong, other steps are to be taken in order to follow out the complete directions of the Word. "But if he will not hear thee (in that private interview), 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). The matter of difficulty is to be confined to as small a number as possible. But two or three are to labor with the one who is in error. They should not only talk with him but bow in prayer, and with humble hearts seek the Lord.  {15MR 154.1}
[15MR 154.2]          "And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church"--if he persists in his unreasonable course, and will not be corrected, then there is only one more step to be taken, and that is a very sorrowful one--"Let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican" (Matthew 18:17). "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" (Matthew 18:18). When every specification which Christ has given                                        -155-     has been carried out in the true, Christian spirit, then and then only, Heaven ratifies the decision of the church, because its members have the mind of Christ, and do as He would do were He upon the earth. . . .  {15MR 154.2}
[15MR 155.1]          We are not to be blind; we may see the prejudices which are cherished by those with whom we associate, we may see the errors that hinder their religious growth, we may discern their instability of opinion, their partiality of action; but because we see this, we should not feel that we are superior to them, measuring ourselves among ourselves, and leaning to our own understanding. As we see the deficiencies of others, it should lead us to be less self-confident, to be jealous of our own spirit and action. No living man should come in to take the place of God in our mind. . . .  {15MR 155.1}
[15MR 155.2]          I know of nothing more injurious to the souls than this habit of talking of one another's errors, of reporting every unfavorable tale that is brought to your ears, and of magnifying the mistakes of a brother. When a brother's fault comes to your notice, how much better it would be to go to him with it, following out the Bible rule that has been given by Him who owns the souls of all men. An infinite price has been paid to ransom the souls of men from the power of the enemy, and how terrible it is for one who professes to love God to set forth the mistakes and errors of his brethren in high colors. He is doing a wicked work against Jesus in the person of His saints. The rebuke of God is upon all who engage in such work; they are doing the work of Satan. The Lord has declared, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" (Matthew 25:40).  {15MR 155.2}
[15MR 155.3]          When Christians accuse and condemn their brethren, they show themselves to be in the service of the accuser of the brethren. When they talk of the faults                                        -156-     and failings of others, they plant roots of bitterness, whereby many will be defiled. It is through this kind of work that brother becomes suspicious of brother. Confidence is unsettled, and variance arises in the church. Love cannot exist where the conversation is largely upon the errors and mistakes of others. The words of Christ are thus treated with indifference and contempt, as though frail, erring man had found some other way to heaven than that appointed by the Lord--the path of obedience to His commandments.  {15MR 155.3}
[15MR 156.1]          We all hope to reach the same home in heaven, but if Christ is not formed within, if you have not the mind of Christ and do not practice the words of Christ, if you are fully satisfied with your own peculiar ways so that you feel justified in complaining of your brethren, you will never reach heaven. If you cannot live in harmony upon the earth, how could you live throughout eternity in love and peace? Kindness, love, courtesy, and delicate regard must be manifested toward one another even here and now.  {15MR 156.1}
[15MR 156.2]          To practice the principle of love will not prevent us from dealing plainly with our brethren, in kindness pointing out wrongs and shortcomings when it is necessary to do so. But we must do this in harmony with the directions of Christ. When you are yourself connected with God you may speak plainly to those who by their crooked steps are turning the lame out of the path. The apostle directs, "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" (Galatians 6:1).  {15MR 156.2}
[15MR 156.3]          Satan designs to keep the church in a state of wrangling, of envy, jealousy and evil surmising, so that brethren cannot pray or work in harmony. While thus                                         -157-     at variance, they fail to bring the saving power of the truth to bear upon the hearts of unbelievers; people become disgusted with religion when they witness the way in which a brother treats an offending brother.  {15MR 156.3}
[15MR 157.1]          It is the duty of every true follower of Christ to reflect light to the world. God has laid upon us a responsibility for the souls of those who are unsaved. As an ambassador of Christ I would tell you, brethren, that if you talked more of the merits of Christ, if you engaged more frequently in humble prayer, and said less to your brethren of the weaknesses of others, you would advance in spirituality and be far ahead of where you now are. You must give the precious plant of love some chance to grow. Jesus has said, "By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another" (John 13:35).--Letter 1c, 1890, pp. 2-7. (Written May 28, 1890, from Crystal Springs, California, to Brethren Atwood and Pratt.)  {15MR 157.1}
[15MR 157.2]     Some Accuse Others to Quiet Their Own Conscience        There are to be found in the church those who are unconverted. They are to be pitied. But shall the church be judged as sustaining these? Should they be expelled, those who made them a stumbling block would make them a stumbling block still, because they had been unmercifully treated. If the truth were known, these complaints are made to quiet a condemned conscience. Those who make them know that their own course of action is not commendable.--Manuscript 49, 1893, p. 9. (Written October 28, 1893, from Gisborne, New Zealand.)                                         -158-  {15MR 157.2}
[15MR 158.1]     Seek Peace Without Compromise        Christ enjoins upon His followers to "love your enemies, . . . do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." He would have us love those who oppress us and do us harm. We must not express in words and acts the spirit they manifest, but improve every opportunity to do them good.  {15MR 158.1}
[15MR 158.2]          But while we are required to be Christlike toward those who are our enemies, we must not, in order to have peace, cover up the faults of those we see in error. Jesus, the world's Redeemer, never purchased peace by covering iniquity, or by anything like compromise. Though His heart was constantly overflowing with love for the whole human race, He was never indulgent to their sins. He was too much their friend to remain silent while they were pursuing a course which would ruin their souls--the souls He had purchased with His own blood. He was a stern reprover of all vice; and His peace was the consciousness of having done the will of His Father, rather than a condition of things that existed as the result of having done His duty.  {15MR 158.2}
[15MR 158.3]          He labored that man should be true to himself in being all that God would have him, and true to his higher and eternal interest. Living in a world marred and seared with the curse brought upon it by disobedience, He could not be at peace with it unless He left it unwarned, uninstructed, and unrebuked. This would be to purchase peace at the neglect of duty.  {15MR 158.3}
[15MR 158.4]          Everyone who loves Jesus and the souls for whom He died will follow after the things that make for peace. But His followers are to take special care lest in their efforts to prevent discord, the truth is surrendered, lest in warding                                         -159-     off divisions, they make a sacrifice of its principles. True brotherhood can never be maintained by compromising principle. As surely as Christians approach the Christlike model, and become more and more pure in spirit and in action, searching out and reproving sin, so surely will they experience the strength and venom of that old serpent the devil. The opposition of the children of disobedience is excited by a Christianity that is spiritual.  {15MR 158.4}
[15MR 159.1]          "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." A duty is here enjoined upon us. We are to strive to live at peace with all men. Every care should be taken on the part of Christians to give no offense, that the truth be not evil spoken of. But the text suggests that no amount of diligence and care will preserve this harmony in all cases. Dissensions will arise even between individual members of the church, because they are not Christlike in character.  {15MR 159.1}
[15MR 159.2]          But there will be a point where members must be separated from its fellowship because of their unchristian course of action. In the home they are oppressive and a reproach to the cause of Christ. Their practices are inconsistent with truth and religion, and to retain them in church fellowship would be faithless to the Master.  {15MR 159.2}
[15MR 159.3]          The church, as a body, is to do all in its power to promote union and prevent schisms. This rule is designed to guide every individual member in his treatment of others. If unsound doctrine is introduced, it will endanger the flock of Christ. It is the duty of those in authority, who are jealous for the truth as it is in Jesus, to make a firm, decided protest. This expression of rebuke will often be used to create sympathy for the reproved. The harm that is                                        -160-     thus done to precious souls and to Christ's kingdom is not considered. At this crisis is the time to decide who are God's faithful sentinels, who will be true to principle; who will bear in mind that truth is too dearly purchased for its least principle to be surrendered.  {15MR 159.3}
[15MR 160.1]          That peace and harmony is not worthy of the name which is secured by mutual concessions to avoid all differences of opinion. On points of feeling between man and man, concessions should sometimes be made; but never should one iota of principle be sacrificed in order to obtain harmony. All our words and actions pass in review before God, and if we wish to stand in the judgment as having done all that we could to have a correct influence over our fellowmen, we must repay kind acts for acts of mischief and malice. Christ is our Pattern; He would have us follow Him.  {15MR 160.1}
[15MR 160.2]          To those who have been injured without a cause, the words of this scripture apply, "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." Their failure to comply with the instruction given in the text is not due to the course of action that they themselves have pursued, but to the envy, jealousy, and evil surmising of those who have been in the wrong. Thus a division is caused. How can it be healed? Shall the man that has been sinned against, misjudged, and maligned be called to account, to find something in his past course by which he can humiliate himself, and acknowledge himself in the wrong for the sake of making peace? No. If he has conscientiously gone forward under the oppression of wicked feelings that have been welcomed in the hearts of the fault-finding, if he has been patient under the abuse, if he has tried to do his duty, he is not to humble himself to acknowledge that he is guilty. He does                                          -161-     the offenders a great wrong thus to take their guilt upon his soul, admitting that he has given them occasion for their course of action, when he has done no such thing. This is very gratifying to those who have done the work of the enemy; but heaven's books record the facts just as they stand.  {15MR 160.2}
[15MR 161.1]          Concessions that are not true from the one who has been wrongfully treated gratifies the feelings of the carnal heart. Their position has been interpreted by them as zeal for God, when in truth it is zeal to do the work of the adversary of souls. They do not dig out from their hearts the root of bitterness, but leave the fibers to spring up when Satan shall stir them up again to active growth. But the axe must be laid at the root of the tree. Heart work is needed. True conversion is essential; the nature must be renewed after the divine image, until the work of grace is completed in the soul.  {15MR 161.1}
[15MR 161.2]          There is a work for us to do. We must begin here to cultivate the meekness of Christ. There are stern battles for us to fight against our traits of character which lead us to err in decisions that will make it hard and unfavorable for others. This is giving advantage to the enemy. We are not commended for a zeal that savors of Phariseeism, for this is not of Christ. We should not go to an extreme in false charity, neither of unbending severity in cases where kindness and mercy and love would have a telling power.--Manuscript 23b, 1896, pp. 2-6. (Written July 25, 1896, "Peace, How to Secure.")  {15MR 161.2}
[15MR 161.3]          The Lord is not pleased with the position of those who have a knowledge of the truth but do not keep it. They do not practice the truth. In their soul the love of Christ is eclipsed. Their principles of action are not sanctified,                                          -162-     righteous, holy. Self is the supreme idol. By the words they speak, they show that they have given themselves over to do Satan's work, to drop seeds which will produce tares. They repeat words that were spoken to them in confidence, and betray their friends. Anything that will cut the threads of union between brother and brother, between sister and sister, is looked upon as a worthy action. Satan stands by and laughs to think that he can so easily inspire the tongue to utter words which will kindle a fire not easily quenched.  {15MR 161.3}
[15MR 162.1]          Some tattle and criticize, finding fault with everything, when they might easily find something to approve. Their words might encourage; they might leave a sweet, fragrant influence behind them; but is otherwise. Their words create strife and disaffection, and evil angels are close beside them. These are the ones who think they see something that they must reprove, but do not try to see that which is worthy of commendation. If they would commend where it is just and right to commend, they would give strength to righteous purposes and principles.  {15MR 162.1}
[15MR 162.2]          The men who hold positions of trust in our institutions should be men who appreciate the love of God, who realize their own weakness, who remember their own mistakes and errors and feel too much humbled in consequence to think that God has given them a special duty to criticize and place themselves as far off as they can from their own fellowmen. This is Satan's inspiration. Shall we provoke the Lord to anger by our idolatrous sentiments and selfish up-building, so that He will leave us to follow on in our own supposed wisdom and self-sufficiency, till He proves us, and reveals the true character of our service? "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall." The Lord                                          -163-     is against all self-sufficiency. He cannot work with His people because they will not use His blessings aright, but glorify themselves.  {15MR 162.2}
[15MR 163.1]          "And for their sakes I sanctify Myself," Christ declared, "that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 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."  {15MR 163.1}
[15MR 163.2]          Here is defined the exalted position we should occupy. Let busybodies and accusers be visited and rebuked. If after thorough labor, they do not hold their tongues in check, they should be suspended from church membership.--Manuscript 43a, 1898, pp. 12-14. (Written March 22, 1898, "The Laborer Is Worthy of His Hire.")  {15MR 163.2}
[15MR 163.3]     Disfellowshiping Sometimes Necessary        There are those members who are busybodies, speaking evil, sowing the seeds of doubt and infidelity, who pay no heed to the light God has given them in His Word. If we have but one church member who by his spirit, words, and influence seeks to counterwork the influence of the minister of Christ, labor with that one faithfully; and if after taking the steps required by Christ, he will not hear, will not change his course of action, then separate him from the church, and let him know the reason why the church cannot hold him in her fellowship.                                          -164-     And if there are those who sympathize with him, who will not discern the right from the wrong, who, after patient instruction has been given them, choose to keep on the wrong side, let them also be suspended. God's name must not be dishonored by murmurers, faultfinders, and those who are continually sowing seeds of disaffection.  {15MR 163.3}
[15MR 164.1]          "A bishop must be blameless as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not give to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; but a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy temperate; holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision; whose mouths must be stopped."  {15MR 164.1}
[15MR 164.2]          There has been too little personal labor done. When one becomes in any way disaffected, he begins to visit and talk with others, and impressions of a disagreeable and untruthful character are left upon the mind. Thus it is that much of the seed of irritation and evil-surmisings are sown, and the unity of the brethren and sisters is broken up. There is a great need of work to be done, that the churches may not become defiled. Let those persons who have no inclination to come out and be on the Lord's side be labored with, and if they cannot harmonize with the church, let them either keep their tongue as with a bridle, or find some other place to worship. Their influence of evil cannot have the sanction of the church or God's approval. This work has been strangely neglected. It is time to set the church in order.--Manuscript 52, 1898, pp. 17-19. (Written May 5, 1898, "The Work Required of God's People.")                                          -165-  {15MR 164.2}
[15MR 165.1]     Critical Spirit to Be Overcome        The Holy Spirit will come to the believing, praying soul who is meek and lowly. This Spirit must come to every child of God. The spirit of accusing, of envy and evil-surmising, is inspired by Satan. Those who take part in the work here, should not stand as independent atoms, but as a solid wall, which the Lord makes firm and immovable.  {15MR 165.1}
[15MR 165.2]          Satan is playing the game of life for the souls of men. Will those who claim to be Christians work with him to weaken the forces of ［God's］ army and to strengthen the forces of the enemy? Every worker is now to be wide awake, but he is not to train his imagination to see defects in others and designs and mischief against themselves. They are not to use their capabilities to tear down the influence of those whom God has chosen to do his work. Keep quiet. Let the precious talent of speech be used to win minds to God. Silence is eloquence unless in patience, kindness, and tenderness you can speak to win souls to Christ's side. Separate from the tempter, and cling to the Lord. . . . Unity is the element so much needed in the work of God. This drawing apart, this scolding and fretting, this pettish spirit of fault-finding, might better be cut away; for it is a root of bitterness springing up, whereby many are defiled. He who is imbued with the love of God will be at unity with his fellow workers.  {15MR 165.2}
[15MR 165.3]          Unity of thought, unity of prayer, unity of action, is essential. When this unity is manifested, the heavenly intelligences will observe the earnestness of our prayers, and our love for one another in the Holy Spirit. It is necessary at times to hold church meetings, when the obstinate persistence of a brother                                         -166-     must be brought before the church for decision. But of what value is the decision of men who are full of suspicion, jealousy, and evil-surmising. Who can put reliance upon the decisions arrived at in board meetings where such a spirit controls the members? . . .  {15MR 165.3}
[15MR 166.1]          God calls upon his people to be converted, to become humble as a little child, that they may have childlike faith. Those who have grown hard and cold and unimpressionable, may have the form of godliness but they have lost the virtue that keeps the mind humble. "Blessed are the poor in the spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Remove from the heart that criticizing spirit. God hates it. Those who yield to this spirit have given themselves up to do Satan's work, and he stands by exulting.--Manuscript 165, 1898, pp. 6-9. (Written December 13, 1898, "Unity a Test of Discipleship.")  {15MR 166.1}
[15MR 166.2]     Rebuke Sometimes Necessary        Holiness to God through Christ is required of Christians. If there are wrongs in the church, they should receive immediate attention. Some may have to be sharply rebuked. This is not doing the erring one any wrong. The faithful physician of the soul cuts deep, that no pestilent matter may be left to burst forth again. After the reproof has been given, then comes repentance and confession, and God will freely pardon and heal. He always pardons when confession is made.--Manuscript 130, 1899, p. 8. (Written September 8, 1899, "The Test of Obedience.")                                      -167-  {15MR 166.2}
[15MR 167.1]    Unrepentant Members to Be Disfellowshiped        Those who walk in obedience to the commandments of God are the Lord's representatives in our world. Church members are to be lightbearers. They are to help one another. If there are those in the church who are walking contrary to the word of God, who give no evidence that they are seeking to live the life of Christ, faithful shepherds are to labor for them. If they refuse to come out from the world and be separate, if they continue to walk contrary to Bible rules, they should be suspended from church fellowship, that they may not be stumbling blocks to sinners. If after being earnestly labored with, they refuse to repent and humble themselves before God, let them be separated from the church.--Letter 102, 1901, p. 6. (Written July 21, 1901, from St. Helena, California, to the church at Healdsburg.)  {15MR 167.1}
[15MR 167.2]    Avoid Harshness Toward Erring Ones        You are in a position where you can do much good. As you fill your position as elder of the church, be true and kind to God in the person of the erring ones in the church. Bear in mind, my brother, that you should not fail to heed the admonition of the Spirit of God to bring into your heart all the kindness, all the tenderness, all the love of Christ. Do not cherish a cold, unsympathetic spirit. Let your words be carefully chosen. Speak and act so that you will have a great influence for good over the church members.  {15MR 167.2}
[15MR 167.3]          God desires you to avoid all harshness. Cover yourself with the robe of Christ's righteousness. Speak the truth in love, and in so doing you will be a blessing. Do not allow a rash spirit to control your words. May the Lord                                       -168-     soften and subdue your heart, that your words shall be a blessing to the church.--Letter 100, 1901, p. 1. (Written July 29, 1901, from St. Helena, California, to Brother Mills.)  {15MR 167.3}
[15MR 168.1]    Follow Christian Methods in Dealing With the Erring        I have frequently been instructed to have a special charge over some who were in danger through special temptations. There are many who have weak points of character. I am instructed that when they shall be overtaken in a fault, and overcome, I am not to leave them to the unadvised words or unchristlike methods of those who have not the love and pity and grace of Christ in their hearts.  {15MR 168.1}
[15MR 168.2]          Those who can see the weakness and mark the faults of an erring one have a special responsibility to try to help him. If they push him off and crowd him away, I am to hold out to him the hand of hope, that he may grasp it, and never let go. I am to say to him. Never be discouraged. I am to tell him of his mistakes manifesting the kindest sympathy. Thus a soul may be saved, and a multitude of sins hidden; for if he confesses his faults, the Lord will pardon him. And from his own experience he will learn how to deal with others who make mistakes.  {15MR 168.2}
[15MR 168.3]          In dealing with the erring, Christ showed tender, forgiving love, and we are to practice the lessons He has given.  {15MR 168.3}
[15MR 168.4]          When Christ ate with publicans and sinners, the priest and rulers made all the capital possible out of his action. But Christ did this that He might speak to erring men the words of encouragement that the priests and rulers were not willing to speak. He would satisfy the inmost longings of the soul, and help                                      -169-     the sore-troubled ones, who needed guidance and encouragement. His words were always spoken with wisdom. They always exalted the truth. He presented principles that searched the recesses of the hearts of those who listened. He said that which reached the diseased imagination, and drew the mind out after eternal realities. . . .  {15MR 168.4}
[15MR 169.1]          In church capacity there are many things that we must do if we would be laborers together with God. If we would study Christ's methods, we would see many things to be reproved and corrected. But in doing this, we are to be sure to follow Christ's methods. Christ fellowship reveals duties to be performed and responsibilities to be borne. In all we are to follow Christ's example. In failing to deal faithfully with one who has erred, in refusing to speak kindly to him, we commit a grievous sin in the sight of God. In acting a harsh, stubborn part, in treating the one has made a mistake in accordance with our own unchristlike traits of character, we may discourage a soul that is in danger, and leave him to settle down into spiritual dwarfage, or to relapse into spiritual death.  {15MR 169.1}
[15MR 169.2]         A disregard of Christ's directions as to how to deal with the erring leads to contention and strife. A desire to cast a mote out of the eye of a brother often creates a beam in the eye of the accuser, because of his neglect or refusal to work in Christ's way.  {15MR 169.2}
[15MR 169.3]          If the directions of Christ, so explicitly given in His lessons to His disciples, are not followed, if church members engage in accusing and condemning their brethren and sisters, refusing to heed the words of the Saviour, serious estrangements will come into the church as the result.                                      -170-  {15MR 169.3}
[15MR 170.1]          Christ says, "First cast out the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." The one who neglects to follow the directions of Christ, who accuses his brother without first going to him and talking the matter over with him, in the spirit of the Saviour, has a beam in his eye. He pays no attention to the remedy that Christ has given for the cure of dissension and strife. He does not go to the one he has condemned, telling him kindly what appears to be against his character. An explanation might clear away the difficulty, but he does not give the one he condemns an opportunity to make the explanation.  {15MR 170.1}
[15MR 170.2]         It is now time that we heeded the lessons of Christ, learning from him how to proceed in wisdom in dealing with the erring. The Saviour pities the one who does wrong, and in love corrects him, and, if he confesses and forsakes his sin, forgives him. Christ cannot save the purchase of His blood without, through reproof and correction, administering His discipline. This is necessary for the safety of the church, for the preservation of a wholesome atmosphere in the church. But He sees the danger of unwise judgment, and he gives the following injunctions: ［Matthew 7:1-5, quoted］.  {15MR 170.2}
[15MR 170.3]         To make His people perfect, the Lord points out their mistakes and dangers. If they give no heed to His words, He permits the sure consequence of wrongdoing to come upon them. But He does not forsake them and turn from them, unless they are willfully stubborn. If after reproof on reproof has been sent to them, they still refuse to reform, He says, "Separate them from the church, lest others be defiled; for their example is detrimental to the health of the church."                                         -171-  {15MR 170.3}
[15MR 171.1]         But let all remember the words, "First cast out the beam out of thine own eye, and then thou shalt see clearly to cast the mote out of thy brother's eye." Let us not be so ready to accuse. God will make His people perfect if they will be molded and fashioned after the divine similitude. If they err, and then repent, He forgives them. His reproofs and corrections are sent to make His people perfect. Then let us accept reproof, and acknowledge our errors, and seek to avoid them.  {15MR 171.1}
[15MR 171.2]          No unlikeness to Christ will be permitted in the holy city. The process of gaining perfection of character is to be carried on in this life, that we may be prepared for the future immortal life. It is God's purpose that His church on earth shall reach perfection. It is essential that His directions be strictly obeyed. The members are to help and strengthen one another. No self-exaltation or accusing or harshness are to be shown in our dealings with one another. We must purify our souls through love and obedience to the truth. We must act like saints toward one another. We must purify our souls through love and obedience to the truth. We must act like saints toward one another, preparing ourselves, drilling ourselves, to be without fault in character, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing.--Letter 67, 1905, pp. 2-7. (Written February 18, 1905, from St. Helena, California, to Brethren and Sisters.)     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. October 8, 1985  {15MR 171.2}
[15MR 172.1]       MR No. 1159 - Treatment of the Erring         The Scriptures speak plainly in regard to the course to be pursued toward the erring: "Ye which are spiritual restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted."  {15MR 172.1}
[15MR 172.2]          To convince one of his errors is a most delicate work; for, through constant exercise, certain modes of acting or thinking become second nature; through habit a moral taste is created; and it is very hard for those who err to see their errors. Many are blind to faults in themselves which are plainly discerned by others. There is always hope of repentance and reformation in one who recognizes his faults. But some are too proud to confess that they are in the wrong, even when their errors are plainly pointed out and they see them. In a general way they will admit that they are human, liable to err; but they expect others to trust them as if they were unerring. Such confessions count nothing with God.  {15MR 172.2}
[15MR 172.3]          "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy." "Happy is the man that feareth always: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief." "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile." "I acknowledged my sin unto Thee, and mine                                         -173-     iniquities have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord: and Thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin."  {15MR 172.3}
[15MR 173.1]          It is not safe to do as did Saul--walk contrary to the Lord's commandments and then say, "I have performed the commandment of the Lord," stubbornly refusing to confess the sin of disobedience. Saul's stubbornness made his case hopeless. We see that others are following his example. The Lord sends words of reproof in mercy to save them, but they will not submit to be corrected. They insist that they have done no wrong, thus resisting the Spirit of God. The Lord declares through Samuel, "Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken, than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, He hath also rejected thee from being king." The stubborn heart is thus presented in the case of Saul to warn every soul who is in danger of doing as he did.  {15MR 173.1}
[15MR 173.2]          It is very discouraging to labor for this class. If their wrong course is pointed out to them as being dangerous both to themselves and to others, they try to excuse it by laying the blame on circumstances, or leaving others to suffer the censure which justly belongs to them. They are filled with indignation that anyone should regard them as sinners. The one who reproves them is looked upon as having done them a personal injury.  {15MR 173.2}
[15MR 173.3]          And yet these very ones who are so blind to their own faults are often quick to perceive the faults of another, quick to criticize his words, and condemn him for something he did or neglected to do. They do not realize that their own errors may be much more grievous in the sight of God. They are like the man represented by Christ as seeking to pull a mote out of his brother's eye while he had a beam in his own eye. The Spirit of God makes manifest and reproves the                                         -174-     sins that lie hidden, concealed in darkness, sins which if cherished will increase, and ruin the soul; but those who think themselves above reproof resist the influence of the Spirit of God. In their efforts to correct others they do not manifest patience, kindness, and respect. They do not show an unselfish spirit, the tenderness and love of Jesus. They are sharp, rasping and positively wicked in their words and spirit.  {15MR 173.3}
[15MR 174.1]          Every unkind criticism of others, every thought of self-esteem, is "the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity." This lifting up of self in pride, as if you were faultless, and magnifying the faults of others, is offensive to God. It is breaking His law, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." "Be kindly affectioned one toward another." We have no right to withdraw our confidence from a brother because of some evil report, some accusation or supposition of wrong. Frequently the report is made by those who are at enmity with God, those who are doing the enemy's work as accusers of the brethren.  {15MR 174.1}
[15MR 174.2]          Someone not so mindful as he should have been of Christ's words, "Take heed how ye hear," allowed his unsanctified ears to hear wrong, his perverted senses to imagine wrong, and his evil tongue to report wrong. Many a man will not come openly to talk with the one he thinks in error, but will go to others, and under the mask of friendship and sympathy for the erring, he will cast reflections. Sometimes he openly agrees with the one whom he covertly seeks to injure. Suppositions are stated as facts, without giving the person charged with wrong a clear, definite statement of his supposed errors, and without giving him a chance to answer the charges. This is all contrary to the teaching of Christ. It is the subtle way in which Satan always works.                                         -175-  {15MR 174.2}
[15MR 175.1]          Those who do such things have set themselves up as judges through admitting evil thoughts. One who engages in this work communicates to his hearers a measure of his own spirit of darkness and unbelief; his evil surmisings sow in their minds the seeds of bitterness and suspicion toward one whom God has delegated to do a certain work. If they think one makes a mistake, it is seized upon, magnified, and reported to others, and thus many are led to take up the reproach against their neighbor. They watch eagerly for all that is wrong, and close their eyes to, and are unable to appreciate, all that is commendable and righteous.  {15MR 175.1}
[15MR 175.2]          Through this acceptance of hearsay evidence the enemy obtains great advantage in councils and committee meetings. Those who would stand for the right, if they knew what it was, have to wade about in the foul pools of evil surmisings, because they are misled by the surmisings of someone in whom they have confidence. Their prayers are hindered, their faith is paralyzed, and unkind thoughts, unholy suspicions, come in to do their work of alienation among brethren. God is dishonored, souls are imperiled.  {15MR 175.2}
[15MR 175.3]          When an effort is made to ascertain the truth in regard to matters that have been represented as wrong, those who have been the accusers are frequently unwilling even to grant the accused the benefit of a doubt as to the reliability of the evil reports. They seem determined that things shall be just as they have stated them, and they treat the accused as guilty without giving them a chance to explain or state the truth of the case. When there is manifested a spirit of such fierce determination to make a brother or sister an offender, and the accusers cannot be made to see or feel that their own course has been wrong, what does this show?--that the transforming power of the enemy has been upon them, and their character reflects his attributes.                                          -176-  {15MR 175.3}
[15MR 176.1]          Satan well knows that all his strength, together with that of his angels and evil men, is but weakness when opposed to the faithful, united servants of the great King, even though they may be few. In order to overcome the people of God, Satan will work upon elements in the character which have not been transformed by the grace of Christ; he will make these the controlling power of the life. Unless these persons are converted, their own souls will be lost, and others who looked up to them as men led of God will be destroyed with them because they become guilty with them. Satan endeavors to create suspicion, envy, and jealousy, leading men to question those things that it would be for their souls' interest to believe. The suspicious ones will misconstrue everything. They will call an atom a world, and a world an atom. If this spirit is allowed to prevail, it will demoralize our churches and institutions.  {15MR 176.1}
[15MR 176.2]          To speak evil of another secretly, leaving the one accused in ignorance of the wrong attributed to him, is an offense in the sight of God. Let those who have been drawn into this work repent before God, confess their sin, and then nourish the tender plant of love. Cultivate the graces of the Spirit, cultivate tenderness, compassion for one another, but do not longer work on the enemy's side of the question.  {15MR 176.2}
[15MR 176.3]          Before giving credence to an evil report we should go to the one reported to be in error and ask, with all the tenderness of a Christian, if these statements are true. A few words spoken in brotherly kindness may show the inquirer that the reports were wholly without foundation, or that the evil was greatly magnified.  {15MR 176.3}
[15MR 176.4]          And before passing unfavorable judgment upon another, you should go to the one who you think has erred, tell him your fears, with your own souls subdued by                                           -177-     the pitying love of Jesus, and see if some explanation cannot be made that will remove your unfavorable impressions.  {15MR 176.4}
[15MR 177.1]          Christ prayed that His disciples might be one, even as He is one with the Father. Then every one who claims to be a child of God should make individual efforts to answer this prayer and labor for this oneness. When it exists, the followers of Christ will be a holy, powerful people, united in love. But if you let love die out of the soul, and accept the accusations of Satan's agents against the children of God, you become servants of sin and are helping the devil in his work.  {15MR 177.1}
[15MR 177.2]          "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."  {15MR 177.2}
[15MR 177.3]          "Who is a wise man, and endued with knowledge among you? Let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth." What is lying against the truth? It is claiming to believe the truth while the                                          -178-     spirit, the words, the deportment, are representing the attributes of Satan and denying Christ. To surmise evil, to be impatient and unforgiving, is lying against the truth. Truth is ever pure in its operations, ever kind, breathing a heavenly fragrance unmingled with selfishness.  {15MR 177.3}
[15MR 178.1]          If anyone in the church desires to be a teacher, thinking himself called to instruct others, let him show his fitness for the position, not in profession merely, not in his discourses alone, but in spirit and action. Let there be no evil surmisings, no crediting of hearsay and telling the story to others, while he does not try by the best possible means to learn the facts from the one accused. Let his conversation be in meekness and wisdom.  {15MR 178.1}
[15MR 178.2]          Those who delight to criticize their brethren pride themselves on their superior wisdom in discerning stains upon the character that others have not discovered; but "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, 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."  {15MR 178.2}
[15MR 178.3]          Here the apostle has given us the fruits of pure and undefiled religion. The fruits of that wisdom that descendeth not from above are also distinctly presented. Will you, my dear brethren and sisters, consider these fruits, so opposite in character and tendencies, and determine which spirit you are cherishing? May the Lord open the eyes of our people to see clearly on which side they stand. The good fruits are without partiality and without hypocrisy.                                          -179-     When the grace of Christ dwells in the heart, there are words and deeds of kindness, tender compassion for one another, not merely for a few who extol and favor you. The harvest of peace is sown in peace of them that make peace. Christ knows the spirit we cherish. The faithful Witness says, "I know thy works." The thoughts of the heart are not hid from Him. And by our words and deeds we shall be judged in the last great day.  {15MR 178.3}
[15MR 179.1]          God will not vindicate any who, in associating with opposers to our faith or with our own brethren, manifest toward them a harsh, denunciatory spirit. Those who do this may appear to have a zeal for the truth, but it is not according to knowledge. To be unkind and denunciatory, and to entertain evil thoughts and harsh, severe judgments, is never the fruit of that wisdom which is from above, but it is the sure fruit of an unsanctified ambition, such as caused the condemnation of Jesus.  {15MR 179.1}
[15MR 179.2]          The language of the Christian must be mild and circumspect; for his holy faith requires him to represent Christ to the world. All who are abiding in Christ will manifest the kind, forgiving courtesy that characterized His life. Their works will be works of piety, equity, and purity. They will have the meekness of wisdom, exercising the gift of the grace of Jesus. They will be ready and willing to forgive, earnestly seeking to be at peace with their brethren. They will represent that spirit which they desire to be exercised toward them by their heavenly Father.  {15MR 179.2}
[15MR 179.3]          The enemy has been at work seeking to control the thoughts, the affections, and the spiritual eyesight of many who claim to be led by the Spirit of truth, Many cherish unkind thoughts, envyings, evil surmisings, pride, and a fierce                                          -180-     spirit that leads them to do works corresponding to the works of the wicked one. They have a love of authority, a desire for preeminence, for a high reputation, a disposition to censure and revile others. And the garment of hypocrisy is thrown over this spirit by calling it zeal for the truth.  {15MR 179.3}
[15MR 180.1]          He who opens his heart to the suggestions of the enemy in evil surmisings and jealousy frequently misconstrues this evil-mindedness to be special foresight, discrimination or discernment to detect guilt and wrong motives in others; he regards it as a precious gift vouchsafed to him, and he draws apart from his brethren, with whom he should be in harmony. He climbs upon the judgment seat and shuts his heart against the one he supposes has erred, as though he himself were above temptation. Jesus separates from him, and leaves him to walk in the sparks of his own kindling.  {15MR 180.1}
[15MR 180.2]          Let no one among you glory any longer against the truth by pretending that this spirit is a necessary consequence of faithfulness in righting wrongs and standing in defense of the truth. Such wisdom has many admirers, but it is very deceptive and harmful. It does not come from above, but is the fruit of a heart that needs regeneration. Its originator is Satan himself. Do not give yourselves, as accusers of others, credit for discernment; for you clothe the attributes of Satan with the garments of righteousness. I call upon you, my brethren, to purify the soul temple from all these things that defile. They are roots of bitterness.  {15MR 180.2}
[15MR 180.3]          How true are the words of the apostle, "Where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work." One person in an institution or in the church who gives loose rein to unkind thoughts and evil speaking may stir up the worst passions in the human heart; and too often the leaven will work until it has permeated all associated with him.                                            -181-  {15MR 180.3}
[15MR 181.1]          The enemy of all righteousness gains the victory, and the result of his work is to make of no effect that prayer of the Saviour that His disciples may be one as He is one with the Father. While men and women are blinded by their erroneous ideas of what constitutes Christian character, the leaven of evil existing in their own natural hearts is actively at work; and such unkindness and hardness of heart exists, such prejudice and resentment are cherished, that Satan takes the throne of the heart, and Christ is excluded. Then the devil and his angels exult.  {15MR 181.1}
[15MR 181.2]          The wisdom which is from above leads to no such evil results. It is the wisdom of Christ--"first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits." Those who manifest these fruits have placed themselves on God's side; their will is the will of Christ. They believe the word of God, and obey its plain injunctions. They do not consult their feelings, neither do they extol their own opinions above those of others. They esteem others better than themselves. They do not stubbornly strive to carry out their own purposes, irrespective of the influence their plans will have on other souls that are precious in the sight of God. In order to have unity and peace in our institutions and in the church, our pet ideas and preferences must be sacrificed. No principle of divine truth is to be sacrificed, by any means, but our own hereditary and cultivated tendencies must often yield. No man is perfect, no one without defect.  {15MR 181.2}
[15MR 181.3]          I ask you, my brethren and sisters to whom these lines are addressed, are you cherishing a spirit that is easy to be entreated? Is it your custom to look upon the course of others in a fair, reasonable light, to excuse them for any                                            -182-     error, as you wish to be excused? Or do you strive to exalt self, and make it appear that your brethren and sisters are in the wrong? Inquire whether, if you were in their place, you would do as well even as they have done. Are you ready to answer the prayer of Christ by yielding your will in obedience to His in order that the peace and harmony of the church may be maintained?  {15MR 181.3}
[15MR 182.1]          I know that this has not been the spirit which many have cherished. Oh, how many have been altogether too willing to disparage others and justify themselves. They have upheld their course when in the sight of God it has been wrong, decidedly contrary to the word of God, and is registered against them in the heavenly records, there to stand until they repent and confess the wrong. True wisdom is full of mercy and good fruits. There are bigots enough in the world who imagine that everything which concerns them is perfect, while they pick flaws in the motives and principles of others. Will you look at these things as they are?  {15MR 182.1}
[15MR 182.2]          You are not what God would have you to be, nor what you must be if you are ever saved in the kingdom of heaven. The converting power of God must come into your hearts and transform your characters before you can adorn the gospel of Christ with a well ordered life and a godly conversation. Then there will be no evil speaking, no evil surmising, no accusing of your brethren, no secret working to exalt self and disparage others. Christ will reign in your hearts by faith. Your eyes and tongue will be sanctified, and your ears will refuse to listen to evil reports or suggestions from believers or unbelievers. Your senses, your appetites and passions, will all be under the control of the Spirit of God. They will not be given up to the control of Satan for him to employ in working unrighteousness.                                            -183-  {15MR 182.2}
[15MR 183.1]          More distractions and wickedness in the church are caused by a wrong use of the tongue, by a lack of governing the speech, than by anything else. Let the members of every family begin to work over against their own house. Let them humble themselves before God. It would be well to have a trespass offering box in sight, and a rule, to which all the household are agreed, that whoever speaks unkindly of another or speaks passionate words, shall drop therein a trespass offering of not less than ten cents. In this way all would be on their guard against these wicked words, which do harm to their brethren, and much more to themselves. No man can of himself tame that unruly member, the tongue; but if you come to God with contrite hearts in humble supplication, in faith, He will do the work for you.  {15MR 183.1}
[15MR 183.2]         By the help of God you must bridle your tongue; talk less, and pray more. Never question the motives of your brethren, for as you judge them God has declared that you will be judged. Open your hearts to kindliness, to the dictates of the Spirit of God, to the cheering rays of the Sun of Righteousness. You need an enlightened understanding. Encourage kindly thoughts and holy affections. Cultivate the habit of speaking well of others. Let neither pride nor self-righteousness prevent you from making frank and full confession of your wrong doings if you desire the forgiveness of God. If you do not love those for whom Christ has died, you have no genuine love for Christ. Your worship will be a tainted offering before God. If you retain unworthy thoughts, misjudging your brethren and surmising evil of them, God will not hear your self-sufficient, self-exalted prayers. When you go to those you think are doing wrong, you must have the spirit of meekness, of kindness, full or mercy and good fruits.                                            -184-  {15MR 183.2}
[15MR 184.1]          Let no partiality be shown to one or more who are your favorites, to the neglect of others of your brethren whom you do not love. Beware lest you deal harshly with those who, you think, have made mistakes, while others, more guilty and deserving of reproof, and who should be even severely rebuked for their unchristlike conduct, are sustained and treated as special friends. Paul, in his epistle to Titus, bids him exhort the brethren to be "ready to every good work," "to speak evil of no man, to be not brawlers, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour." The mercy and favor of God toward us is an example of how we should treat the erring. When those who claim to believe the truth will humble their hearts before God and obey His word, then the Lord will listen to their prayers.  {15MR 184.1}
[15MR 184.2]          If your brethren have erred, you must forgive them. You should not say, as some have said who ought to know better, "I do not think they feel humble enough. I do not think they feel their confession." What right have you to judge them, as if you could read the heart? The word of God says, "If he repent forgive him, and if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him." And not only seven times, but seventy times seven, should you forgive him--just as often as Christ forgives you.                                            -185-  {15MR 184.2}
[15MR 185.1]          Here the free gift of God to men is plainly set forth. It is the free forgiveness of all sins, without man's rendering any equivalent. The Lord gives this lesson in order that man may see how he should treat his fellow men--that, as God for Christ's sake has forgiven his sins, he should forgive his brethren who err. If he is an overcomer at last, it will not be because of his own righteousness, but through the righteousness of Christ, and the long forbearance, mercy, and forgiveness of God. If he does not cherish kindness, love, and a forgiving spirit toward his brethren, he will not be of the number who shall receive forgiveness of God.  {15MR 185.1}
[15MR 185.2]         The lesson that Jesus would impress upon His disciples is that Christians cannot cherish a revengeful spirit in either thought or action. The tendency of the whole work of Christ was to counteract the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees who encouraged retaliation and revenge.  {15MR 185.2}
[15MR 185.3]          Jesus teaches the poor not to rise up against those who are in power, not to resist their oppression, while He pronounces a terrible woe upon those who tyrannize over the poor. "Go to, now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you." God enjoins upon the servant to be faithful to his master, and to be contented for Christ's sake; but He assures the master that he also has a Master who will requite him full measure for his deeds. "Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them." We do not receive forgiveness because we forgive, but as we forgive. The ground of all forgiveness is that Christ died, that while we were yet sinners He died for us. Repentance and faith are the conditions of our salvation. Lesson after lesson is given the student in Christ's school that he may learn to trust, not in his own merits, but in the merits of Christ's righteousness.                                    -186-  {15MR 185.3}
[15MR 186.1]         The conditions of salvation are presented in various ways in order that effectual impressions may be made on varied minds, and that none may be deceived. Abraham was justified by faith, that faith which works obedience. Let all who claim to believe present truth be doers of the word which plainly teaches that the spirit of forgiveness must be cherished, that it is indispensable to our receiving forgiveness from God. The sinner who is forgiven and accepted through Christ will forgive his brother willingly, freely, thoroughly.  {15MR 186.1}
[15MR 186.2]          "Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents."  {15MR 186.2}
[15MR 186.3]          Here was one man in high position who had been entrusted with a vast amount of property. But upon an examination of his accounts he was found unfaithful; he owed his lord ten thousand talents. This, at the lowest computation, amounts to not less than fifteen million dollars. When the king saw the evidence of his servant's unfaithfulness he commanded him to be sold, with his wife and children, his house, his lands, and all that he had, that payment might be made. Alarm seized the unfaithful man as he saw the ruin before him, and he pleaded for delay: "Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all." But his lord knew that he could never pay the debt. While the servant acknowledged the justice of the sentence against him, he begged for mercy. "Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt."  {15MR 186.3}
[15MR 186.4]          What joy was this, what relief from the shadow of his wrong course, which surrounded him like a cloud! He went forth from the presence of his lord with                                        -187-     the whole debt canceled. But circumstances occurred which tested the true spirit of this man--whether he would manifest the same forgiveness and mercy that had been shown toward him, or whether his joy and gratitude were of a selfish nature, and his heart not softened.  {15MR 186.4}
[15MR 187.1]          "The same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence; and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt."  {15MR 187.1}
[15MR 187.2]          Here Christ illustrates the spirit of selfishness and severity which brother exercises toward brother. Both are human, both are in need of mercy, patience, and forbearance, But one whom God has forgiven much will not forgive a small offense in his fellow men. Too many professed Christians regard one whom they deem in error with an unfeeling, relentless spirit, which is the fruit of pride, self-sufficiency, and hardness of heart; thus they show that God's great love for them is not appreciated, for it has not softened their hearts.  {15MR 187.2}
[15MR 187.3]          When this man, whose great debt has been forgiven, met another inferior to him in position and office who owed him but a small, sum, he was filled with anger, and with threats and violence claimed the money due him. Then when the poor debtor fell at his feet and used the very same prayer which he himself had uttered before his lord, he was merciless. He accused the man of not meaning to pay him, and disregarded his prayers and tears. He who had been forgiven so much himself forgave nothing. He claimed his rights, and taking advantage of the law, afflicted the distressed debtor by casting him into prison.                                       -188-  {15MR 187.3}
[15MR 188.1]         This conduct grieved those who witnessed it, for they knew the whole story of his pardon, and they carried a complaint to the king. Then the king's anger was stirred, and he ordered the man to come before him. "Then the lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt because thou desiredst me: shouldst not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord delivered him to the jailer till he should pay all that was due.  {15MR 188.1}
[15MR 188.2]         Will those whose names are upon the church books, who claim to be sons and daughters of God, consider their relation to God and to their fellow men? While we must depend so entirely upon the mercy of a sin-pardoning Saviour, shall our hearts remain hard and unsympathizing? Can any provocation authorize unkind feelings, or should it cause us to harbor resentment or seek revenge? Can we cast the first stone in condemnation of a brother when God is extending His mercy to us and forgiving our trespasses against Him? Should God enter into judgment with us our debt would be found to be immense, yet our heavenly Father forgives us our debt. Men will be dealt with by God, not according to their opinion of themselves, nor according to their self-confidence, but according to the spirit they reveal toward their erring brethren. A spirit of harshness and severity is the spirit of Satan.  {15MR 188.2}
[15MR 188.3]         Pride of heart, if cherished, creates envy, evil surmising, and even revenge. There is danger, then, that words or actions may be exaggerated into grievous, intentional offenses, and that the one who you think has done you an injustice will be treated with coldness, indifference, or contempt. Yet these very persons the Lord has charge of; angels of God minister unto them. He who                                    -189-     reads the heart may see more genuine goodness in them than in him who harbors ill feelings against them for supposed wrong. "If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; if he repent, forgive Him." Treat him and his errors as you wish God to treat you when you offend Him. Charity does not rejoice in evil; revenge does.  {15MR 188.3}
[15MR 189.1]          Let your zeal be for yourselves, to show out of a good conversation your work with meekness of wisdom. Avoid every bitter word, every unkind action. Love as brethren; be kind; be courteous. Do not scandalize the truth by bitter envying and contention, for such is the spirit of the world. Let not these unholy traits be once named among you.  {15MR 189.1}
[15MR 189.2]          On one occasion the disciples came to Jesus with the question, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea." The little ones here referred to, who believe in Christ, are not those who are young in years but little children in Christ.  {15MR 189.2}
[15MR 189.3]          Here is a warning for those who selfishly neglect, or hold in contempt, their weak brethren; a warning to those who are unforgiving and exacting, judging and condemning others, and thus discouraging them. "Woe unto the world because of offenses! for it must needs be that offenses come; but woe unto that                                         -190-     man by whom the offense cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee; it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast if from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which is lost."  {15MR 189.3}
[15MR 190.1]         Here the work of Christ is plainly presented; and it is a similar work His followers are expected to do. They must use their God-given talents to save that which is lost. It is not the saint but the sinner that needs compassion, the earnest labor, the persevering effort.  {15MR 190.1}
[15MR 190.2]          Weak and trembling souls, those who have many defects and objectionable traits of character, are the special charge of the angels of God. "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven." If any injustice is done to them, it is the same as if done to Jesus Himself. Christ identifies His interest with that of the souls He has purchased at an infinite cost.  {15MR 190.2}
[15MR 190.3]          Angels are ever present where they are most needed--with those who have the hardest battles to fight, whose conflicts are with themselves, against their inclinations and hereditary tendencies, whose home surroundings are the most discouraging. Will the followers of Christ labor together with God? Will all                                        -191-     in our institutions seek for harmony, for peace, for oneness in Christ Jesus? Will anyone work with Satan to discourage souls who have so much to contend against? Will they by word or deed, push them upon Satan's battlefield?  {15MR 190.3}
[15MR 191.1]          Jesus assures us that His coming to our world was to save those that were lost, those that were dead in trespasses and sins, those that were strangers and enemies to God. Then will the very men to whom Christ has shown mercy and forgiveness neglect or despise those whom Jesus is seeking to take home to His heart of infinite love? Christ's work is to ransom those who have strayed from God; and He requires every member of the church to work together with Him in bringing them back.  {15MR 191.1}
[15MR 191.2]          If those who, by being merciless, unforgiving, place themselves on Satan's side would only listen and hear the reproof of the Savior, "He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone," would any hand be lifted? Would not every mouth be stopped? These words of Jesus to the Pharisees brought their own sins to their remembrance. Self-condemned, they went out one by one.  {15MR 191.2}
[15MR 191.3]          Brethren and sisters, if you are workers together with God there is no excuse for your not working to help, not only those whom you fancy, but those who need your help to correct their errors. I have been shown that many have not the Spirit of Christ. The very work He has given them to do they have not done. And they will continue to neglect this work unless the converting power of God is felt on their poor hearts. Then they will be rich in good works.  {15MR 191.3}
[15MR 191.4]          Jesus thus illustrates the work that devolves upon those who claim to believe on His name: "How think ye? If a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the                                          -192     mountains and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish."  {15MR 191.4}
[15MR 192.1]          Wonderful lesson of mercy, forbearance, patience, and love! Perishing souls, helpless in sin and liable to be destroyed by the arts and snares of Satan, are cared for as a shepherd cares for the sheep of his flock. Jesus represents Himself as being acquainted with His sheep. He gave His life for them. And He goes to seek them even before they seek Him. There is more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner that repents than over ninety and nine just persons that need no repentance.  {15MR 192.1}
[15MR 192.2]          Let ministers and people work according to God's plan. Let them exchange their way for God's way; then they will be zealous in encouraging and strengthening the weak, not grieving them or causing them to stumble by a hard, unforgiving, accusing spirit.  {15MR 192.2}
[15MR 192.3]          Brethren, we need to fall on the Rock and be broken. Then we shall have the melting, subduing love of Jesus in our hearts. We shall follow the example of Jesus, the Majesty of heaven, and of the angels, and not be like the Pharisees who were proud, hardhearted, and unsympathetic. God is not willing that even the lowest and most degraded should perish. In what light then can you regard any neglect of those who need your help?  {15MR 192.3}
[15MR 192.4]          Many of you are self-willed, proud, hardhearted, and condemnatory, when on the contrary the whole heart should be aroused to devise ways and means for saving souls. You draw apart from your brethren because they do not speak and                                          -193-     act to please you, when in the sight of God you are more guilty than they. You do not seek that unity that Christ prayed might exist among brethren. What impression do these variances, this emulation and strife, make upon your families and your neighbors, upon those who do not believe the truth? "By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another." How many of you are unsanctified in heart, and while sensitive yourselves to any reproof, you make another an offender for a word? How many of you speak words that cannot produce union, but only heartache and discouragement? How many give cause for anger, and are themselves angry without cause?  {15MR 192.4}
[15MR 193.1]          Jesus, the world's Redeemer, has laid down rules to prevent such unhappy divisions, but how many of you in our churches or in our institutions, have followed the directions of Christ? "If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and (tell it to every one you meet?) tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 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 shall be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen and a publican."  {15MR 193.1}
[15MR 193.2]          When anyone comes to a minister or to men in positions of trust with complaints about a brother or sister, let them ask the reporter, "Have you complied with the rules our Saviour has given?" and if he has failed to carry out any particular of this instruction, do not listen to a word of his complaint. Refuse to take up a report against your brother or sister in the faith. If members of the church go entirely contrary to these rules, they make themselves subject of church discipline, and should be put under the censure of                                         -194-     the church. This matter, so plainly taught in the lessons of Christ, has been passed over with strange indifference. The church has either neglected her work entirely, or has done it with harshness and severity, wounding and bruising souls. Measures should be taken to correct this cruel spirit of criticism, of judging one another's motives, as though Christ had revealed to man the hearts of their brethren. The neglect of doing aright, with wisdom and grace, the work that ought to have been done, has left churches and institutions weak, inefficient, and almost Christless.  {15MR 193.2}
[15MR 194.1]         Jesus adds to the lesson these words: "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." This assurance that after the rules of Christ have been followed to the letter the decisions of the church will be ratified in heaven, gives a solemn significance to the action of the church. No hasty steps should be taken to cut off names from the church books or to place a member under censure until the case has been investigated and the Bible rule fully obeyed.  {15MR 194.1}
[15MR 194.2]          The words of Christ show how necessary it is for church officers to be free from prejudice and selfish motives. Human minds and hearts, unless wholly sanctified, purified, and refined from partiality and prejudice, are liable to commit grave errors, to misjudge and deal unkindly and unjustly with souls that are the purchase of the blood of Christ. But the decision of an unjust judge will be of no account in the court of heaven. It will not make an innocent man guilty, nor change his character in the least before God. As surely as men in responsible positions become lifted up in their own esteem, and act as though they were to lord it over their brethren, they will render many decisions which Heaven cannot ratify.                                          -195-  {15MR 194.2}
[15MR 195.1]          However great the confidence reposed in any man, whatever the authority given him by his position, let him not think that he can therefore indulge in surmisings, in suspicions, evil thinking and evil speaking, because he is too cowardly to speak plainly to his brethren and sisters, and to correct faithfully any existing errors. His position and authority depend upon his connection with God, upon the discernment and wisdom he receives from above.  {15MR 195.1}
[15MR 195.2]          Let us be careful how we pass sentence of condemnation of one for whom we may be cherishing dislike because he does not meet our ideas, for the sentence will reflect upon ourselves, and do far more harm to us than to the one we condemned. Christ would have His church strong in unity. Let us all praise God that we are not to be judged according to finite man's discernment, which is very liable to be perverted.  {15MR 195.2}
[15MR 195.3]          "Again I say unto you that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them." Remember, there is a witness in every assembly, One who knows whether your thoughts are holy, kind, tender, and Christlike, or whether they are hard, unkind, and satanic. A record of your words and your spirit, and of the result of your course of action, goes up to heaven. You cannot afford to be careless and inattentive in this matter.  {15MR 195.3}
[15MR 195.4]          "Wherefore, laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speaking, as new-born babes desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious." "Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned:                                            -196-     behold, the Judge standeth at the door." Man cannot read the heart of man. His judgment is formed from appearances, and these are often deceptive. God reads the intent and purposes of the heart. Do nothing in an underhand manner; be open as the day, true to your brethren and sisters, dealing with them as you wish Christ to deal with you.  {15MR 195.4}
[15MR 196.1]          Many in our churches and institutions are not sanctified by the truth they profess. If they had the Spirit of Christ they would not notice small slights, but their minds would be occupied in contemplating the love of Jesus. They need spiritual discernment, that they may not be the sport of Satan's temptations. They would not then be continually seeing things of which to complain. If the instruction which Christ has given were followed out in the spirit that every true Christian should have--if each, when aggrieved, would go to the offending member and seek in kindness to correct the wrong by privately telling him his fault--many a grievous trial would be averted. But many will resort to every expedient rather than fall on the Rock Christ Jesus and be broken. All such expedients must fail.  {15MR 196.1}
[15MR 196.2]          Christ says, "Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." "Take My yoke upon you." Will we do this? Will we wear the yoke of Christ? Will we be renewed in the spirit of our mind, and daily strive to cultivate humility and childlike simplicity, willing to be the least of all, and the servant of all? Without this spirit our life is not hid with Christ in God. The self-importance which many manifest is exactly opposite to the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Those who think least of self and exalt Jesus most, will be greatest in the kingdom of heaven.                                            -197-  {15MR 196.2}
[15MR 197.1]          It becomes all who expect to see Jesus as He is, and to be made like Him, so to follow Him daily that their character may be molded after His image. When our hearts reflect His likeness we shall not judge unrighteously; we shall honor those whom God honors, and we shall be very circumspect in spirit, in word, in action, lest we grieve one of God's little ones. He who loves God because his own sins have been forgiven will manifest a forgiving spirit toward others.  {15MR 197.1}
[15MR 197.2]          In dealing with the erring, harsh measures should not be resorted to; milder means will effect far more. After the best means have been perseveringly tried without success, wait patiently and see if God will not move upon the heart of the erring. Discipline has been abused heretofore. Men whose own character is very defective have put themselves forward to discipline others, and thus all discipline has been brought into contempt. Passion, prejudice, and partiality, I am sorry to say, have had abundant room for exhibition, and proper discipline has been neglected.  {15MR 197.2}
[15MR 197.3]          If those who deal with the erring had hearts full of the milk of human kindness, what a different spirit would prevail in our churches! May the Lord open the eyes and soften the hearts of those who have a harsh, unforgiving, unrelenting spirit toward those whom they think in error. Such men dishonor their office and dishonor God. They grieve the hearts of His children, and compel them to cry unto Him in their distress. The Lord will surely judge for these things.  {15MR 197.3}
[15MR 197.4]          But those who are unfeeling, hardhearted, do the greatest harm to themselves. They are deceived by their own course. Selfishness leads the one who cherishes it to exaggerate every little offense, to attach great importance                                            -198-     to little acts, and attribute guilt to one who is ignorant of doing any wrong. It works in the unsanctified heart to create a desire to depreciate all who do not esteem him so highly, or show him as much honor as he thinks is his due.  {15MR 197.4}
[15MR 198.1]          The lessons which Christ has given us are to be studied and incorporated into our religious life every day. If ye forgive not men their trespasses, "neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses." "When ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have aught against any." "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."  {15MR 198.1}
[15MR 198.2]          When the believer, in view of all his transgressions, exercises faith in God, believes that he is pardoned because Christ has died as his sacrifice, he will be so filled with gratitude to God that his tender sympathy will be reaching out to those who, like himself, have sinned and have need of pardon. Pride will find no place in his heart. Such faith as this will be a death blow to a revengeful spirit. How is it possible for one who finds forgiveness, and who is daily dependent upon the grace of Christ, to turn away in coldness from those who have been overtaken in a fault, and to display to the sinner an unforgiving spirit? Everyone who has real faith in God will crush pride under his feet.  {15MR 198.2}
[15MR 198.3]          A view of the goodness and mercy of God will lead to repentance. There will be a desire to possess the same spirit. He who receives this spirit will have clear discernment to see the good there is in the character of others, and will love those who ［need］ the tender, pitying sympathy of forgiveness. He sees in Christ a sin-pardoning Saviour, and contemplates with hope and confidence the                                            -199-     pardon written over against his sins. He wants the same work to be done for his associates also. True faith brings the soul into sympathy with God.  {15MR 198.3}
[15MR 199.1]          May God pity those who are watching, as did the Pharisees, to find something to condemn in their brethren, and who pride themselves on their wonderfully acute discernment. That which they call discernment is cold, satanic criticism, acuteness in suspecting and charging souls with evil intent who are less guilty than themselves. They are, like the enemy of God, accusers of the brethren. These souls, whatever their position or experience, need to humble themselves before God. How can they pray, "Forgive me as I forgive others"?  {15MR 199.1}
[15MR 199.2]          "With what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you again." "He shall have judgment without mercy that hath showed no mercy." God grants no pardon to him whose penitence produces no humility, and whose faith does not work by love to purify the soul. We need to study the example of Him who was meek and lowly; who, when He was reviled, reviled not again. A vindictive spirit will not be indulged by a true Christian.  {15MR 199.2}
[15MR 199.3]          Parents should teach their children to be patient under injuries. Teach them that wonderful precept in the Lord's prayer that we are to forgive others as we would be forgiven. He who possesses the Spirit of Christ will never be weary of forgiving. I entreat you to be Bible Christians.--Manuscript 11, 1888.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 8, 1985 Entire manuscript  {15MR 199.3}
[15MR 200.1]       MR No. 1160 - How to Deal With Those Who Have Faults         ［Written January 26, 1905, from Mountain View, California, to Brother and Sister Haskell.］         I have just received and read your letter.  {15MR 200.1}
[15MR 200.2]          I wish to say to you that the Lord has instructed me that Brother W. O. Palmer is not to be separated from the sympathy of the church. Brother Palmer is not perfect. Over and over again he has shown himself to be defective. I am to be as a mother to him, and as such I have spoken to him faithfully. I shall still continue to correct his wrongs, but I wish to present to him the hopeful side, that he may not fall into utter discouragement. I shall reprove his errors and encourage him in every way possible.  {15MR 200.2}
[15MR 200.3]         We need especial wisdom that we may know how to deal with those who are tempted, that we may labor for the reformation of the erring. Hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil will often gain the ascendancy. But often the very ones who would deal severely with the one in the wrong are, in the sight of God, more to be blamed than the one they so bitterly condemn. Brother Palmer knows that I am his friend. I will tell him the truth in love, clearly and truthfully, without prejudice or unfeeling severity.  {15MR 200.3}
[15MR 200.4]          In response to the charge made against Christ that He ate with publicans and sinners, Jesus replied, "I came not to call the righteous ［the self-conceited                                        -201-     Pharisees］, but sinners to repentance." His work was not for those who would not receive His message, but with and for those who might be helped and saved after His crucifixion.  {15MR 200.4}
[15MR 201.1]          Let those who see faults and errors in their brethren go to them as Christ has directed, pray with and for them, and with hearts softened and subdued by the grace of Christ endeavor to point out kindly the wrongs that have been done.  {15MR 201.1}
[15MR 201.2]          "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven." Christ, the great Teacher, is not referring merely to those who are children in years, but to those who need care and protection in their religious experience. ［Matthew 18:11-20, quoted.］  {15MR 201.2}
[15MR 201.3]         Do not these words encourage us to do more praying for our brethren, and less accusing of them? I know that if these directions were followed with those who are sin-sick, the Lord Jesus would be better pleased. Would this not be better than to separate an individual from the church, and leave him a subject of Satan's temptations? When all will study their Bibles closely, and give heed to its teachings, the saving grace of Christ will be manifested to the church in rich blessings. I am directed that we must continue our work of soul-saving in harmony with the Bible plan.  {15MR 201.3}
[15MR 201.4]          "Then came Peter unto Him, and said, "Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times; but until seventy times seven."                                         -202-  {15MR 201.4}
[15MR 202.1]          Brother Haskell, read this instruction to the church at Nashville and at other places. Tell them that if they will read the Bible and walk in its counsels and directions, there will not be the difficulties to contend with that they have now. In our institutions and in our churches, there needs to be an entire change of action in dealing with those who are in fault. Let the sympathy and love of Christ come in, and the still, cold heart will be melted by His grace, and a heavenly atmosphere will pervade the church.  {15MR 202.1}
[15MR 202.2]          Study the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. Print it in The Watchman. And may our Lord Jesus Christ give His grace to every member of His church, that they may all be established in His word. ［Matthew 7:1-5, quoted.］--Letter 31, 1905.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 8, 1985 Entire letter.  {15MR 202.2}
[15MR 203.1]       MR No. 1161 - Should Our Youth Go To Battle Creek?    ［BATTLE CREEK COLLEGE WAS MOVED TO BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICHIGAN, IN THE SUMMER OF 1901. HOWEVER, IN 1903, DR. JOHN HARVEY KELLOGG REOPENED BATTLE CREEK COLLEGE IN THE CITY OF BATTLE CREEK. HIS INTENTION WAS THAT THE SCHOOL SHOULD CONTINUE TO SERVE AS A FEEDER INSTITUTION FOR HIS MEDICAL SCHOOL, THE AMERICAN MEDICAL MISSIONARY COLLEGE. ELLEN WHITE STRONGLY OPPOSED DR. KELLOGG IN THIS ACTION AND URGED OUR YOUNG PEOPLE NO LONGER TO LOOK TO BATTLE CREEK FOR THEIR COLLEGE OR MEDICAL EDUCATION.］         ［Written October 28, 1905, from St. Helena, California.］          As God's messenger I am to say to our people that we are not to encourage our youth to go to Battle Creek to receive an education. Fathers, mothers, the souls of your children are precious, and the warnings God has given that young men and young women should not be drawn to Battle Creek have now twice as much force as they had in the past.  {15MR 203.1}
[15MR 203.2]         The leading men who have taken a position directly against these warnings are strengthening one another to make of no effect the light God has given. Resistance after resistance to the movements that have been made against centering in Battle Creek will yet be seen. There are men teaching the Bible who have given up the truth they once believed and taught. They are teaching errors. The Lord is not pleased with this showing. He has mercifully placed in our possession several properties that can be used for sanitarium work, because He desires it to be seen that plants are made in many places.                                        -204-  {15MR 203.2}
[15MR 204.1]          I am instructed to say to our people, Heed the warnings given you. You cannot see the end from the beginning. The great crowd of people going to Battle Creek is one of the warnings why our people should heed the warnings given to get out of Battle Creek.  {15MR 204.1}
[15MR 204.2]          There are schools out of and away from Battle Creek that are in far less danger of losing their respect for the testimonies that have been coming to the people of God for the past half century. Representations are given me that the first proposition to reopen the school in Battle Creek was the first note of opposition to the light God has given. However, the result has proved as I was instructed it would be. The plausible excuses and reasons for the starting of this school were not inspired by God, but by the enemy of God, to confuse minds, and place our people where they would not know where they are standing. That this has been the result, I know. The testimonies borne are not heeded. The enemy is at work, and a neglect of the warnings sent is preparing the way for Satan to come in with his sophistries and errors.  {15MR 204.2}
[15MR 204.3]          Ministers have gone to Battle Creek and are not presenting the truth but errors that strike at the foundation of our faith and our experience of the last half century. This is just as Satan meant it to be. Men are giving heed to seducing spirits and will become adept in misconstruing the Scriptures and testifying to falsehoods. Satan is looking on with great delight.  {15MR 204.3}
[15MR 204.4]          I am given a message for all our people: "Believe them not, for they are working to draw minds away from the Scriptures." They will so confuse Scriptures that many will lose their bearings. Satan is preparing fallacies of every kind to use in playing the game of life for souls.                                         -205-  {15MR 204.4}
[15MR 205.1]          Parents, your children had better remain at home than to mingle with a mass of people who do not believe the truth. The education they receive in such a place will be so mingled with sentiments represented as wood, hay, and stubble, that the truth will lose its force upon their mind at a time when they need to have the truth confirmed.  {15MR 205.1}
[15MR 205.2]          People will come to Battle Creek in great numbers. But few, if any of them, are converted, and the Sanitarium is not in a condition to show the medical missionary work that is to be done for the world. The time has come when I must say that the effort to draw our young people to Battle Creek is one of the schemes of Satan to confuse the minds of the youth and those who are older. There are ministers of the gospel who have lost their bearings, and as they lead others to walk in strange paths they are doing a work similar to that which Satan thought to carry on when the children of Israel were about to enter Canaan. Beware, beware.  {15MR 205.2}
[15MR 205.3]          The Lord has opened the matter before me. Has Dr. Kellogg stated to any one, clearly and distinctly, the features of his faith? He has already mingled with unbelievers on the Sabbath, and he will need to take but half a step practically to renounce the Sabbath. I warn our people to come out from among them and be separate. The Lord will open--yes, he is opening--ways whereby your children can be given an education in medical missionary lines without endangering their souls. If the preparations in these places are not as complete as they are at Battle Creek they can do as much as was done when the work was first started at Battle Creek. We did not then have provision for sending out fully equipped physicians. In a short time we shall have facilities for giving the necessary requirements.                                         -206-  {15MR 205.3}
[15MR 206.1]          Suppose that for a time the students cannot be sent out as fully accredited physicians. They can work in connection with other physicians and, if they follow the Lord's guiding, such valuable opportunities will present themselves that they will gain a better experience perhaps than if they had gone out with a diploma. It is the man's real value that will give him standing room and influence. The nurse or physician who works with the Lord Jesus will gain success. Read the history of the children of Israel as given in the book of Exodus, and let each soul place himself fully on the Lord's side. The experience of the Israelites is to be considered by the people of God living in these last days.  {15MR 206.1}
[15MR 206.2]          God will give His presence and His grace to those who hearken to His voice and obey His commands. He will delight in all who reverence truth as a peculiar treasure. We must approach God feeling that we are sinners, and that His eyes are too pure to behold iniquity. We are to abhor everything that is opposed to God, putting away all unChristlike practices. We are to accept the yoke of Christ, asking him to cleanse us from all unrighteousness and to help us perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord.  {15MR 206.2}
[15MR 206.3]          For a time after the warnings of God are given, if there is shown a careless, heedless disregard, the proving continues. The Lord bears long with the one who chooses his own way, giving him every opportunity to repent. But His judgments will certainly fall on those who go on in hardness of heart. Man may take to himself might, but if that might is opposed to God, and used to forward transgression and injustice, God will certainly punish the transgressor.--Manuscript 151, 1905.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. November 7, 1985. Entire Manuscript.  {15MR 206.3}
[15MR 207.1]       MR No. 1162 - Satan's Power is Broken Through Prayer         ［Written August 15, 1850, from Centerport, New York, to Brother and Sister Stockbridge Howland in Topsham, Maine.］  {15MR 207.1}
[15MR 207.2]          I send this vision to you for you to read to the church in Topsham. Brother Rhodes came here last Tuesday which is just one week ago today. We were glad to see him. He has just got out a new chart. It is larger than any chart I ever saw; it is very clear. We like his chart much.  {15MR 207.2}
[15MR 207.3]          My babe had been very sick for about a week. We had prayer for him and he was some better and we thought he would recover. Tuesday, p.m., James and myself went to Port Byron with Brother Rhodes. He was to take a canal boat and go on his way to Michigan. It seemed as though we could hardly let him go. We knew not why we felt so.  {15MR 207.3}
[15MR 207.3]          On our way home it seemed to me that Satan had stepped in and was troubling Edson. We found it even so; we found the child at the point of death. James took his horse and carriage and started to overtake Bro. Rhodes. He went five miles, overtook him and brought him back. That night they prayed for Edson and he has come up very fast since. Satan wanted to hinder the work of the Lord, so he afflicted the child but he was beaten back by faith in God and His name shall have the glory.                                          -208-  {15MR 207.3}
[15MR 208.1]          When Satan found he could not take the life of the child he tempted me that God had left me, or the child would have been healed when we first prayed for him. I sank under this temptation in despair and was so until last Sabbath evening. My heart seemed within me like lead, but God delivered me that eve and Satan's power was broken.  {15MR 208.1}
[15MR 208.2]          The next he got hold of was Clarissa. She was sunken and discouraged. At the same time James was taken with the cholera morbus. He failed very fast until yesterday p.m. Then he made a request for us to pray for him. Bro. Harris was gone to his work so that it only left Sister Harris, Clarissa and Sarah and myself. We all felt unworthy to engage in the work, but we felt that the work of the Lord was hindered by his lying on a sick bed, and we knew unless God should deliver him he could not get well. He had a high fever. He had the cramp take him in his hips and extend to his feet. His stomach was much strained by vomiting. We knew something must be done. I anointed his head and stomach and bowels in the name of the Lord, then we took hold of faith for him. Our united prayers went up to God and the answer came.  {15MR 208.2}
[15MR 208.3]          Sister Harris and Clarissa were set entirely free and they prayed God with a loud voice. The spirit caused Clarissa to laugh aloud. James was healed every whit; the great distress he had had in his head was every whit removed and he looked as though he had got the holy anointing. The fever and all pain left him and he ate and was strengthened. He walked out upon his faith, harnessed his horse and he and I went to Port Byron, one mile and a half and back. He gained strength very fast. He is quite strong today. Praise the good Lord.                                          -209-  {15MR 208.3}
[15MR 209.1]          When Satan found his power was completely broken upon him, he went to the child again. He waked us crying at the top of his voice. He seemed to have the colic and we went up to the chamber, anointed his stomach with oil and prayed over him, rebuked Satan and he had to flee. We heard no more from him till morning. He is quite well today but rather weak. We feel quite free from his ［Satan's］ power today. He has made a desperate struggle to get some of us, but we have driven him back.  {15MR 209.1}
[15MR 209.2]          The Lord showed me some weeks ago that as James would begin to republish what the leaders had written in '44 upon the truth, Satan would try to hinder us, but we must struggle for the victory and go on. It has been just so. He knows this work will hurt his cause and save some jewels. This is why he rages so but he is driven back.--Letter 12, 1850.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. November 7, 1985 Entire Letter  {15MR 209.2}
[15MR 210.1]       MR No. 1163 - Letter From Paris, Maine, November,1850         ［Written November 1, 1850, to Brother and Sister Loveland in Johnston, Vermont. The postscript following Ellen White's name was written by James White.］  {15MR 210.1}
[15MR 210.2]          We received your very kind letter here at Paris yesterday, enclosing the ten, for which we thank you. We are all enjoying quite good health and have had some sweet seasons of late. How good it is to have a God that we can go to and tell our wants to Him; and He, like a tender parent, supplies our wants, and in sickness He is our physician and will undertake our case and heal us every whit. Should we not rejoice and glorify God?  {15MR 210.2}
[15MR 210.3]          Since we last wrote you, we have been to Fairhaven to attend a conference there. Brother Bates was present. We had quite an interesting meeting. James baptized two. Both were filled with the Holy Spirit.  {15MR 210.3}
[15MR 210.4]          Monday we returned to Dorchester where our dear Brother Nichols and family live. There in the night God gave me a very interesting vision, the most of which you will see in the paper. God shewed me the necessity of getting out a chart. I saw it was needed and that the truth made plain upon tables would effect much and would cause souls to come to the knowledge of the truth.  {15MR 210.4}
[15MR 210.5]          Thursday we left Dorchester for Topsham, Maine. Friday, Brother Howland's family and my little boy went with us to Gorham to spend the Sabbath with our parents. Found them strong in the faith. We had a good season with them. We parted with them Sunday sorrowful, because we were obliged to part, but rejoicing that we were of one faith and that soon we should meet if faithful never more to part.                                         -211-  {15MR 210.5}
[15MR 211.1]          You write of trials. We should be glad to know what they are that we may understand your cases and may know how to sympathize with you. We love you and your little band and should love to see you much, but do not expect to at present. We shall stay here at Paris some little time. James is now getting out a paper here. It is an excellent place to get out the paper.  {15MR 211.1}
[15MR 211.2]          Now do write and tell me if there is anything in your place that prevents your rising. God wants His people to rise and get the victory over the powers of darkness. Be free and free indeed; the fountain is full and free. Let us drink, and do not let the enemy prevent us from drawing sap and nourishment from Jesus, the living vine. Let us not rest unless we know that our lives are hid with Christ in God. We must have daily the full assurance that we are accepted of Him. If we have ［this］, all is well. We then can come to the throne of grace with holy boldness and draw strength and glory from the sanctuary and be triumphant in God. I do long for the mind that was in Christ. Day after day I discover my unlikeness to the meek and lowly Jesus. I want His fashioning hand to be laid upon me, for I would reflect the lovely image of Jesus.  {15MR 211.2}
[15MR 211.3]          At times I feel the power of God even in my flesh and yet I am not satisfied. I want to plunge deeper and deeper in the ocean of God's love and be wholly swallowed up in Him. Be strong in God. Do not sink. My vision comes up before me and the words of the angel even now seem to ring in my ears, "Get ready, get ready, get ready. Time is almost finished, almost finished, almost finished. Cry, cry, for the arm of the Lord to be revealed, for the arm of the Lord to be revealed. Time is almost finished. What you do, you must do quickly!"                                         -212-  {15MR 211.3}
[15MR 212.1]          Much love to all of your dear band. Much love to your daughter who is not at home. Tell her she will have to wade through deep waters, but God is with her and He will strengthen and uphold her, and though she passes through deep waters they will not overflow her.  {15MR 212.1}
[15MR 212.2]          Love to the next oldest. (I cannot remember the names of either.) Tell her for me that she has a part to act in the cause of God, and if she would be saved she must overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of her testimony. Tell her not to hold back and get barrenness to her soul, but take a part in your little social meetings and she will get great strength to her soul and will not be a clog to the meetings. Tell her to be strong and faint not by the way.  {15MR 212.2}
[15MR 212.3]          Much love to dear Brother and Sister Heath. I should love to see them much, and talk over the glorious hope that we have and of soon coming into possession of a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Tell them to be valiant for the truth and keep up good courage, and all of your little band. It is as the garden of Eden before us and a desolate wilderness behind us. Tell them to press, press their way to the kingdom.  {15MR 212.3}
[15MR 212.4]          James would write some but he is now writing at the same table for the paper. He sends love to Brother and Sister Loveland and your children and all the band. I have written this in great haste. In hope of speedy redemption at the voice of ［God］. Write often!  {15MR 212.4}
[15MR 212.5]         ［P.S.］ We have received an excellent letter from Brother Rhodes. He is valiant for the truth and God has been making him mighty. Many souls have been brought into the truth through his labors. Today we received an excellent letter from Brother Bates. He is still in Fairhaven. E. G. White.-- Letter 26, 1850.                                        -213-  {15MR 212.5}
[15MR 213.1]     My dear Brother and Sister Loveland:            I hope to send you some papers soon. The chart is being executed in Boston. God is in it.  {15MR 213.1}
[15MR 213.2]          Bro. Nichols has the charge of it.  {15MR 213.2}
[15MR 213.3]          I do want to see you, but I do not see how we can leave here at present. Let me say to you all, follow the light given at Sutton. Amen. Be strong.  {15MR 213.3}
[15MR 213.4]          Much love to every whole-hearted soul in your little band.--James White.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. November 7, 1985 Entire Letter  {15MR 213.4}
[15MR 214.1]       MR No. 1164 - Different Talents Are Needed in the Ministry         ［Written October 9, 1903, from St. Helena, California, to Elder A. G. Daniells and W. W. Prescott.］  {15MR 214.1}
[15MR 214.2]          Yesterday evening I wrote a letter to Elder J. I have been reading over the letters of caution, reproof, and warning that I have sent him from time to time.  {15MR 214.2}
[15MR 214.3]          It has been clearly laid out before me that Elder J is not fitted to take charge of churches. He is not a thorough health reformer. His habits of living are not right. At times he sits up nearly all night preparing the maps and charts that he uses in his meetings. These are of great advantage to him in impressing the truth on the minds of his hearers, but the strain under which he places himself in night work and study is an injury to him.  {15MR 214.3}
[15MR 214.4]          Elder Haskell and Elder J could have been a wonderful power for good in New York City. But they failed to unite and draw together.  {15MR 214.4}
[15MR 214.5]          Elder J is impulsive, and he often treats church members as if they were school children. Then when his authority is questioned, he loses control of himself, and a tornado of angry words falls from his lips. Afterward he is sorry for this explosion of feeling. But such experiences shake the confidence of his brethren in him as a man who is led and controlled by the Holy Spirit. His influence is to arouse dissension and alienation. His treatment of Elder Haskell was most unChristlike. A man who does as he has done cannot be regarded as a safe teacher, a wise shepherd.                                         -215-  {15MR 214.5}
[15MR 215.1]          Light was given me that Elder J was especially fitted to labor for unbelievers in our large cities. He could labor with success in speaking to them and bringing the truths of the scripture before them. The truth does not languish on his lips. I was shown that he could stir the ungodly as but few could do, but that in doing this the church members are so wrought up that he can do them but little good.  {15MR 215.1}
[15MR 215.2]          After laboring heroically to win souls to the truth he will for a short time work earnestly for those who are interested. He will be patient with them and will help them if they will do as he wishes them to do. But it is at this stage of the work that he needs the help that Elder Haskell and his wife are especially fitted to give. They could labor wisely to instruct those who are interested, carrying ［them］ forward until they were established in the faith.  {15MR 215.2}
[15MR 215.3]          But Elder J has not been willing to unite with Elder Haskell in this way. He wanted to have the entire charge of those who through his efforts have become interested in the truth. But he cannot carry them forward wisely, consistently, instructing them step by step. I was shown that Elder Haskell and his wife were specially fitted for this part of the work, and that great good would be accomplished if they and Elder J could unite in labor. Elder Haskell has had a wide experience in establishing souls in the truth, and in union with his wife he is most successful in this work.  {15MR 215.3}
[15MR 215.4]          A wonderful work has been done in the city of New York and its suburbs. For this God's name is to be given all the glory. A Paul may plant and an Apollos water, but it is God who gives the increase. It is the Holy Spirit, working with men who will be influenced, that impresses minds with the need of repentance and conversion.                                          -216-  {15MR 215.4}
[15MR 216.1]         Elder J, through his stirring discourses, has been enabled to reach the worldly class, and to strike terror to the hearts of those dead in trespasses and sins. But when those convicted by his preaching have been brought thus far, they need other help. They need to be taught to study the word of God. They need to be led, step by step, to take their stand firmly on the true foundation. Different workers are needed in the ministry, just as different workers are needed in the erection of a building. The law of development must guide; the work must be carried forward from point to point.  {15MR 216.1}
[15MR 216.2]          The old, experienced teachers, who have been in the work from the beginning, are especially fitted to carry the work forward from point to point. But they can not do this alone. They must have helpers. The Lord would have His workers unite their efforts, as the workmen do in the building of a house. Elder J has his line of work, but there are other parts that he must leave to others.  {15MR 216.2}
[15MR 216.3]          The Lord is to be the great Teacher. His Holy Spirit, if allowed to control, will bring in harmony among the different workers, and the building will be symmetrical in all its parts. And all the glory is to be given to the Lord Jesus, who has had supervision of the whole work. It is foolish for those who are but God's instrumentalities, to take glory to themselves. It is only by the wisdom that God imparts that they are enabled to do successful work. --Letter 227, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. November 7, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 216.3}
[15MR 217.1]       MR No. 1165 - Heaven's Judgments on the Wicked; God's People Sealed         (Entire journal entry for Sabbath, February 9, 1895, written at Granville, N.S.W.; and partial entry for Sabbath, February 16, 1895).  {15MR 217.1}
[15MR 217.2]          Thursday, February 7, Brethren Rousseau and McKenzie came from Dora Creek to Granville. Brother Rousseau had business to do in the interest of the school grounds.  {15MR 217.2}
[15MR 217.3]          Sabbath Brother Rousseau went to Ashfield. Byron Belden, Sarah Belden, and Sister May Lacey accompanied me to my appointment at Prospect. I had freedom in speaking upon the invitation given to the marriage supper of the Lamb and the excuses made refusing the invitation. Then I read letters from Brother Haskell which deeply interested them, and our meeting closed quite late. Read letters also from Edson White.  {15MR 217.3}
[15MR 217.4]          As we left the house we saw a storm coming. The blackness grew deeper --so portentous that we drove with our colts as fast as we dared. When we were almost home the fury of the gale struck. Large hailstones began to fall--as large around as a hen's egg, but not as long. The horses could not keep their footing and twice slipped down on their haunches, for the road was slippery clay. The great hailstones frightened the young horse, for they were striking her with terrible force.  {15MR 217.4}
[15MR 217.5]          I said, "Byron, get out at once." He had not considered this the best thing to do, thinking he could control the horse better where he was, in the carriage. I said, "Go to her head; talk to her. Let the horses know it is not you that are beating them." He jumped out at this suggestion. I said,                                           -218-     "May Lacey and Sarah, get out." They did but they cannot tell how. The colt was about frantic. She is a strong, sound colt, but broken to the harness only a few months. But she did not kick, neither did she break into a run, but tried to get away from something terrible.  {15MR 217.5}
[15MR 218.1]          I got out next, May and Sarah helping me. Then they helped me, one on one side and one on the other. The wind was blowing with such force that hats were taken from our heads and cushions were blown from the wagon. The heavy carriage cushions, umbrellas, and heavy carriage robes were blown into the field, and were flying in every direction. But we were all out from the carriage, Byron firmly holding the young frightened horse. Had it known its power, it could have freed itself from his grasp and torn everything to pieces and killed itself.  {15MR 218.1}
[15MR 218.2]          What a scene! Sister Belden, May Lacey, and I reached the house hatless. I grasped my hat in my hand as it was blowing before me on the ground. All of us three women were in the home drenched. Byron was with the poor terror-stricken new horse. Sarah Belden caught up a shawl and ran out again in the fast-falling hail. We could not see them although they were in full sight of the house. The fast-falling rain made it impossible to discern anything distinctly. We could only lift up our hearts to God for His help.  {15MR 218.2}
[15MR 218.3]          Byron said afterwards he did not dare to stir up the horses, fearing my horse would become uncontrollable. The colt was finally led close to the paddock fence, and Sarah Belden tried to untackle the traces but could not. She then climbed over the fence and held the horse's head over the fence                                           -219-     while Byron unhitched the traces and let the horse free. He then led her down to the yard, taking her through the front yard grounds. Sarah Belden came into the house drenched to the skin. After the storm had spent its force, Byron again took the colt and attached her to the wagon and picked up the scattered things which had been blown about, and brought them to the house.  {15MR 218.3}
[15MR 219.1]          This is the sharpest experience I have ever had in a carriage in a storm. When the blackness deepened, with the clouds in the south, I supposed it would be no ordinary storm that we should have, and I thought of the day when the judgment of God would be poured out upon the world, when blackness and horrible darkness would clothe the heavens as sackcloth of hair. We have no question but our prayers were answered and the angel of God stood by the horses' heads. Nothing was broken. The Lord preserved us, and His name shall be glorified. But I was deeply impressed. My imagination anticipated what it must be in that period when the Lord's mighty voice shall give commission to His angels, "Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth" (Revelation 16:1).  {15MR 219.1}
[15MR 219.2]          Thy right hand, O God, shall dash in pieces Thine enemies. Revelation 6 and 7 are full of meaning. Terrible are the judgments of God revealed. The seven angels stood before God to receive their commission. To them were given seven trumpets. The Lord was going forth to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity, and the earth was to disclose her blood and no more cover her slain. Give the description in chapter 6.                                          -220-  {15MR 219.2}
[15MR 220.1]         When the plagues of God shall come upon the earth, hail will fall upon the wicked about the weight of a talent. The hail had struck Brother Belden. One stone struck him on the back of the head, raising a large lump. Another stone struck him very near the temple. The bruise still shows upon the hands of Sister Belden. But what must it be when the hail shall be so much increased in size, falling upon those who would not care for and obey God but insulted Him and despised all His mercies?  {15MR 220.1}
[15MR 220.2]          But there are mercies mixed with judgment. Revelation 7:3, 4. The Lord has a people whom He will preserve. John beheld the "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" (Revelation 7:1, 3) till the seal of the living God shall be placed upon those who love God and keep His commandments. The elements of nature are to be placed in the power of angels of God. He holdeth the winds in His fists; He gathereth the waters in the hollow of His hand; He maketh the clouds His chariot; "The Lord sitteth upon the flood; yea, the Lord sitteth King forever" (Proverbs 30:4; Isaiah 40:12; Psalms 104:3; 29:10).  {15MR 220.2}
[15MR 220.3]         The Lord is ruler of nations. The sequence of nature is under God's jurisdiction. God works by His own laws, for He is a God of order. God works; Jesus worked when He was upon earth, holding back the impatient winds, controlling the tempests, calming the angry sea, and rolling up the mighty deep, piling up the walls, making a path for the more than a million of His people that He was delivering from Egyptian slavery, suffering not the hurricane of waters to pursue their natural course until every soul of                                          -221-     Israel whom He had delivered was safely on the other side of the sea. Then the impetuous waters that had been held back for the saving of Israel, at His word, through the human agent lifting that rod--that simple stick-- rushed on as before, and not one soul escaped of that vast army. Pharaoh and all his host were slain.  {15MR 220.3}
[15MR 221.1]          God gives the sea its decree. He walketh on the wings of the wind. And if we have been mercifully shielded from accident, if lightning and tempest have passed us by unharmed, if the waves that talked with death have submerged the proud vessels but have brought the one on which we sailed to the harbor, let us bow in gratitude to God and thank Him that the power of mighty angels, at His bidding, have held back the winds and waves that they did not destroy.  {15MR 221.1}
[15MR 221.2]          And what a representation is given in Revelation 7 for our consideration and comfort and encouragement! The four angels are commissioned to do a work upon the earth. But One who purchased the world by giving Himself for its ransom has a chosen few. Who? Those who are keeping all of the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus.  {15MR 221.2}
[15MR 221.3]          John's attention was called to another scene: "And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God" (Revelation 7:2). Who is this? The Angel of the covenant. He comes from the sunrising. He is the Dayspring from on high. He is the Light of the world. "In Him was life; and the life was the light of men" (John 1:4). This is the One Isaiah describes: "Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful,                                         -222-     Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). He cried, as One who had superiority over the hosts of angels in heaven "to whom 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).  {15MR 221.3}
[15MR 222.1]          Here is the divine and human united. The command is given to the four angels to hold in check the four winds until they receive His summons. Read the entire chapter. The cry, "Hurt not," is uttered by the Restorer, the Redeemer.  {15MR 222.1}
[15MR 222.2]          Judgment and wrath were to be repressed only for a little space until a certain work was done. The message, the last message of warning and mercy, has been retarded in doing its work by the selfish love of money, the selfish love of ease, and the unfitness of man to do a work that needs to be done. The angel that is to lighten the earth with His glory has waited for human instrumentalities through whom the light of heaven could shine, and they thus cooperate to give, in its sacred, solemn importance, the message which is to decide the destiny of the world.  {15MR 222.2}
[15MR 222.3]          But the churches are not awake. New life must enter into the churches. The last work of warning and mercy for a fallen world is being done. None are to be deceived, thinking to lay their individual work on somebody else. When this probationary time shall close, there is no opportunity for those who have received the warning message, the proclamation of pardon and salvation, and have refused--have turned from light and truth and accepted                                         -223-     fables--to be justified. There is no second bidding to the marriage feast, no intermediate state when another call will be made to come to the heavenly feast.  {15MR 222.3}
[15MR 223.1]          Now is the time to work, just now. There is not a moment to lose. All national, denominational, and sectarian distinctions between rank and rank, between caste and caste, are lost. The message is to be proclaimed in the highways and byways and hedges. Every human agent is merging his character under one of two heads--the Prince of Life and the prince of darkness. To those who receive Christ He gives power to become loyal sons of God. They keep His commandments. The benediction rests upon them, "Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city" (Revelation 22:14). The commandment breakers are left outside with the false shepherds whom they believed, and with "whosoever loveth and maketh a lie" (Revelation 22:15).  {15MR 223.1}
[15MR 223.2]          The work is before us individually. Our moral identity cannot be submerged in any human being. We shall be called of God to do our work according to our several ability. The vineyard is large and requires every jot of moral power everyone has had entrusted to him or her. Partition walls will be broken down. Everyone who will hear the message and believe the truth will no longer be confined, bound to creeds, but will take the Bible as his guide, as the very creed of life, as the waters of salvation. The very intensity of the light shining from heaven makes men messengers of truth and                                         -224-     salvation. They cannot hold their peace. They have accepted the truth and emerged into the light, the light shining in these last days.  {15MR 223.2}
[15MR 224.1]          The message of warning is to be given with a deep sense of individual responsibility. Wealth, fame, renown, selfish exaltation will be extinguished, to be forever in the dust. The lifegiving power from Christ in the human agent will not die. Saints will appear just what grace has made them. They praise God who sitteth on the throne, and the Lamb. They live forever and forever through the ceaseless ages of eternity.  {15MR 224.1}
[15MR 224.2]          If we serve sin we shall meet the reward of the transgressor of the law of Jehovah, before the judgment seat of Christ. The Lord Jesus is to judge the world. He can read the purpose of every life, see through every soul, discern the thought of every heart, estimate the feelings that prompt to every action. All the invitations of a gracious God--given, but slighted and refused and rejected--will be presented to every individual, and the sentence which will fix the destiny of the soul in eternal bliss or to be punished with the fiery element of the wrath of God will close the history of the wicked forever.  {15MR 224.2}
[15MR 224.3]          The condition given to the Hebrews in Egypt on that night when the firstborn were slain was that every family should manifest that faith in the message given them of God that would lead them to act in perfect obedience to the directions given them of God. Every member of the family was to be gathered into the dwelling place of the Hebrews. They were to eat the Passover with their preparations all made for their departure, even with their                                         -225-     staffs in their hands. God was about to do His work in judgment, and this was to bring Pharaoh to understand that the Lord, He was God, and beside Him there was none else.  {15MR 224.3}
[15MR 225.1]          The angel of God was to pass over the houses of the Hebrews with the blood sprinkled on the lintels and doorposts. This sign was to be respected.  {15MR 225.1}
[15MR 225.2]          But suppose that the inmates of the house were careless and did not gather their children with them in the house? Or suppose the children who had been born and brought up in Egypt thought this only a whim, and altogether unnecessary, and should refuse the entreaties of their parents, making some excuse as did those called to the marriage supper? Then the judgment of God would not spare, but the stroke would as surely come upon the firstborn of the Hebrews as the firstborn of the Egyptians.  {15MR 225.2}
[15MR 225.3]          What is the condition of those who keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus? If in families there are those who are refusing obedience to the Lord in keeping His Sabbath, then the seal cannot be placed upon them. The sealing is a pledge from God of perfect security to His chosen ones (Exodus 31:13-17). Sealing indicates you are God's chosen. He has appropriated you to Himself. As the sealed of God we are Christ's purchased possession, and no one shall pluck us out of His hands. The seal given in the forehead is God, New Jerusalem. "I will write upon him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God" (Revelation 3:12).  {15MR 225.3}
[15MR 225.4]          Parents, are you awake to gather your children with you into the fold? Are you making the salvation of Jesus Christ your first business? Do you                                            -226-     educate and train your children to be obedient to you, their earthly father, that they may be obedient to God, their heavenly Father? This is your work --to leave nothing undone that you can do to cooperate with the Holy Spirit.  {15MR 225.4}
[15MR 226.1]          Sabbath, February 16, 1895--May Lacey accompanied me to Petersham, eleven miles, the new place of meeting. A neat hall was filled to overflowing. Brother McCullagh had spoken at Ashfield in the forenoon, Brother Hare had been at Parramatta, and both were at the meeting in Petersham. The Lord gave me much freedom in speaking upon the fourteenth of Luke, the first portion of the chapter. There was then a testimony meeting. Those newly come to the faith came from Ashfield, and they bore witness for Jesus. The blessing of the Lord rested upon us. Brethren Humphrey and Hardy appear entirely changed men in spirit. They were bearing the change in their very countenance. I thought of the words spoken by God, "A new heart will I give you" (Ezekiel 36:26).  {15MR 226.1}
[15MR 226.2]          I was much pleased to hear the assuring testimony given from the believers who came from Ashfield. Oh, that everyone would praise the Lord for His goodness! Meeting lasted three hours. Many testimonies were borne, and the Spirit of the Lord was resting upon the people. May and I then returned to Granville. We did not arrive at home until after dark. Brother Rousseau was unable to attend meeting. He has had an acute attack of fever and dizziness. He has overworked. Heroic treatment has been given him.-- Manuscript 59, 1895.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. November 7, 1985  {15MR 226.2}
[15MR 227.1]       MR No. 1166 - The General Conference Relocation; The Book of Daniel; Elder Haskell's Work and Wages         (Written July 30, 1903, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to Elders A. G. Daniells and W. W. Prescott.)  {15MR 227.1}
[15MR 227.2]          A day or two ago I received a very interesting letter from Elder Daniells. I am indeed glad that so favorable an opening has been found in Washington. I believe that the Lord is preparing the way for His work to be established in places where, as yet, no suitable memorial of the truth has been established.  {15MR 227.2}
[15MR 227.3]         In the representations that passed before my mind in regard to the places at which you were looking, no difficulties seemed to be pointed out in regard to Washington. But the presentation made in regard to the property sixty miles from New York was that there would be secret working to hinder the purchase of the place. That is why I cautioned you to be very quiet, to preserve silence in regard to your movements, but to let there be no delay in securing the place, because it was most favorable for school and sanitarium work.  {15MR 227.3}
[15MR 227.4]          I still hope that this place can be secured without an increase of price. But all that we can do is to pray to the Lord for guidance, and then do all in our power to press the matter to completion. The hindrance that has come is no evidence that the purchase of the place should be given up.  {15MR 227.4}
[15MR 227.5]          I shall be glad when Willie returns. It makes my work harder for him to be gone so long.                                            -228-  {15MR 227.5}
[15MR 228.1]          I am deeply moved by the unprepared condition of our churches. One thing we must do. We must keep our feet in the straight and narrow path that leads to eternal life. We must make no missteps now. The first and second chapters of Colossians have been presented to me as an expression of what our churches in every part of the world should be. The great apostle had many visions. The Lord showed him many things that it is not lawful for a man to utter. Why could he not tell the believers what he had seen? Because they would have made a misapplication of the great truths presented. They would not have been able to comprehend these truths. And yet all that was shown to Paul molded the messages that God gave him to bear to the churches.  {15MR 228.1}
[15MR 228.2]          The people of God need to study what characters they must form in order to pass through the test and proving of the last days. Many are living in spiritual weakness and backsliding. They know not what they believe. 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. There are ministers claiming to believe the truth who are not sanctified through the truth. Unless a change comes in their lives, they will say, "My Lord delayeth His coming."  {15MR 228.2}
[15MR 228.3]          Read the 21st chapter of Luke. In it Christ gives the warning, "Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may                                            -229-     be accounted worthy to escape all these things, and to stand before the Son of man" (Luke 21:34-36).  {15MR 228.3}
[15MR 229.1]          The signs of the times are fulfilling in our world, yet the churches generally are represented as slumbering. Shall we not take warning from the experience of the foolish virgins, who when the call came, "Behold the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him," found that they had no oil in their lamps? And while they went to buy oil, the bridegroom went in to the marriage supper with the wise virgins, and the door was shut. When the foolish virgins reached the banqueting hall, they received an unexpected denial. The master of the feast declared, "I know you not." They were left standing without in the empty street, in the blackness of the night.  {15MR 229.1}
[15MR 229.2]          This afternoon I received a letter from Willie. He seems to be of good courage. In his letter he asks whether Elder Haskell should remain longer in New York or go South. Elder Butler wants him to connect with him in the Southern field. I am in favor of Elder Haskell going to the South, and have written him a letter telling him this. I have been given a representation that makes it plain to me that as long as Elder J is in New York City he will see things in a perverted light and will create dissension, making it hard for Elder Haskell and his wife. Elder Haskell must have a respite from the strife, and he must be sustained in his labors. His wife also should be encouraged and sustained, for her labors are of great value, and she is a blessing and an encouragement to her husband.  {15MR 229.2}
[15MR 229.3]          It will be of little use for Elder Haskell to try again to stem the current in New York unless the transforming, converting grace of Christ shall make Elder J a new man in Christ. The way is open for Elder Haskell                                            -230-     to go to Nashville, and I think that he should go. Elder Butler pleads for this strongly.  {15MR 229.3}
[15MR 230.1]          It was an offense against God for Elder Haskell's wages to be cut down. To do this showed great lack of discernment. I am instructed that in such cases the wages should be made up from the tithe. Care should be taken to see that the men who have worn out their lives in God's cause shall not be neglected. The lack of the past should be supplied. Our colored ministers should not be given so meager a salary that they are not able to support their families. I put these on the list of those who should receive attention. And I put on the list also, the widows whose husbands have died in the service of God, leaving their wives and their children in needy circumstances. For this I have a "Thus saith the Lord."  {15MR 230.1}
[15MR 230.2]          Well, yesterday and today I have written about 40 pages. The Lord is good. He preserves me in health and gives me power to write. I am somewhat short of money. I have nothing in the bank, and have not been able to pay my workers for some time. But I am of good courage.--Letter 161, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. November 7, 1985, Entire Letter  {15MR 230.2}
[15MR 231.1]       MR No. 1167 - Counsel and Reproof         (Written November 12, 1873, from Battle Creek, Michigan, to Elder and Mrs. D. M. Canright.)  {15MR 231.1}
[15MR 231.2]          I have felt for some time that I ought to write you, but have not found the time. I have arisen at half past five o'clock in the morning, helped Lucinda wash dishes, have written until dark, then done necessary sewing, sitting up until near midnight; yet we have not gotten sick. I have done the washings for the family after my day's writing was done. I have frequently been so weary as to stagger like an intoxicated person, but, praise the Lord, I have been sustained.  {15MR 231.2}
[15MR 231.3]          Since I have come to Battle Creek, I have felt more strongly upon the matter of writing to you. As I reflect upon your visit with us, it is most painful to my feelings, and I feel it to be my duty to write to you. The testimony published in regard to your case is none too strong. I have read and re-read the testimony of reproof many times, and as I read I see that upon some points I have not presented your case as strongly as it was presented to me in vision. I fear that you do not see yourselves, and I fear that you will have to go over the ground again unless you search more closely and discern your failings, and decidedly reform.  {15MR 231.3}
[15MR 231.4]          If I have time I will write you in regard to some things in your letter of charges to my husband, which I read for the first time about three weeks since. As I read, and as I reflected upon your deportment with us, I felt that I must speak plainly to you. I would not, as I now view your case, suppress a single syllable of the truth.                                       -232-  {15MR 231.4}
[15MR 232.1]         Your letter written to us from Golden, while we were at Wallings Mills, with statements that you had not been situated so that you could cultivate domestic qualities, is not now before me. But your letter shows that you do not see the point. I saw that you did not love domestic duties, and both of you neglected to bear your share of these burdens in the different families where you made it your home. Your principal anxiety and interest was for yourselves, expecting others to be interested for you, others to care for you, while you care only for yourselves. While the families you visit fulfill the gospel requirement in adopting into their family the servants of Christ, and while the servants of Christ are entitled to their care and have a right to their tables and the privileges of their home, obligations are resting upon those who receive these privileges. The obligations are mutual upon both parties.  {15MR 232.1}
[15MR 232.2]          You have signally failed on your part. You have neglected to do your duty. You have considered yourselves, your convenience, and your interest, regardless of the inconvenience and interest of those whose hospitalities you share. You have manifested selfishness in this particular to a great extent, even to an extent which should cause you great sorrow as you review the past. Others have been burdened on your account while you have been studying your interest. They have done what they have in caring for you cheerfully, feeling that they were doing for Christ in the person of His servants. They would have cheerfully inconvenienced themselves to a much greater extent for your sakes, feeling that they were serving God and His cause in so doing.                                         -233-  {15MR 232.2}
[15MR 233.1]          And just to that degree that they have favored you, and cared for and waited on you for Christ's sake, God holds you as debtor to these friends. You have accepted all this as due you, without feeling your obligation to them, and while thus privileged you have selfishly looked out for your own interest and followed your inclination. God does not propose to do your neglected duty, or fill the claims others have upon you which you have through love of self neglected. You are responsible for very much that you have made others responsible for.  {15MR 233.1}
[15MR 233.2]          Why I feel so thoroughly upon this point now is, I want you to see the necessity of an entire change of your course in very many respects. You proposed in a letter to us to go out and labor upon your own hook. You proposed to be no longer dependent upon the conference, but to labor in preaching and let your labors sustain you, and in that way obtain the experience wherein you are deficient, in depending upon God and exercising faith in Him for a support.  {15MR 233.2}
[15MR 233.3]          Elder Canright, you cannot have the same experience that we had in the first rise of this cause, for the reason that circumstances have entirely changed. When we were obliged to live by faith, the numbers of believers were few, and they were looked upon as a despised, fanatical people, and the offscouring of the earth. There were but few who had means, and there were but few friends of the truth.  {15MR 233.3}
[15MR 233.4]          The truth was being dug out from amid error, through supplication, agony, and fasting. You now see and reap the advantages of this diligent search, earnest effort, and deep privation and suffering. Times now have                                         -234-     entirely changed. Our position upon the truth is sustained by plain, clear, conclusive arguments. Young men now who embrace the truth have everything made ready at their hands. They know nothing of what trials, anguish, stretch of faith, close venturing, and critical risks were experienced by those who led out in this work.  {15MR 233.4}
[15MR 234.1]          Friends of the truth are now numerous. There is means in abundance everywhere, and there is no chance for you to venture anything by preaching the truth and trusting to the benevolence of the people. The people have been so long appealed to through the testimonies in regard to highly esteeming the servants of God, and have been led to see the sin of selfishness, that they are ready to do, whenever they see a chance to do.  {15MR 234.1}
[15MR 234.2]          With your selfish propensities, your care for your own interest, you would have not more chance to exercise faith and trust in God than you have had since you commenced to labor in this cause. Times have changed, but you who know nothing comparatively of hardships and privations should be the last ones to claim or plead consideration on account of your privations and labors, on that score. When you make appeals in this direction, when you tell what you have done and how you have labored, you give evidence that you esteem your labors as of more value than they will bear; certainly higher than God regards them as He has shown me the result of your labors.  {15MR 234.2}
[15MR 234.3]          The truth published and spoken by you, that others have prepared for you to use, has done something in convincing souls of their errors, and led them to receive the truth. But Elder Canright has taken much of the credit of this to himself. May God pity his weakness and assumption.                                         -235-  {15MR 234.3}
[15MR 235.1]          In a letter written to us from Golden, you stated that you were undecided what to do. The hall that you hired was expensive, you had no assurance that the General Conference would sustain your efforts in providing means to work, and you were not able to bear the expense yourself. There was a deep interest to hear, and some few would, without doubt, receive the truth; but you thought you should suspend your labors. Something like this you wrote. When I can get the letters which are now in California, I can quote your exact words.  {15MR 235.1}
[15MR 235.2]          Now here was Brother Canright who has signified in his letters that he desired to place himself in a position to go on his own hook, and have a chance to gain the experience he was deficient in. Here was a splendid opportunity to walk by faith and to sacrifice something for the truth's sake and for the salvation of souls. We have been placed in similar positions. Many times we have had to walk and work by faith, and have felt that we would gladly sacrifice means and our own lives in the effort to do all we could to get the truth before those who would hear. You had, in this instance, an opportunity to exercise faith, and to humbly work and wait, and trust in God under circumstances that were not very encouraging.  {15MR 235.2}
[15MR 235.3]          But you failed to improve the opportunity, and lost the experience it was your privilege to gain. In fact, you know but very little of practical faith. You have trusted more in the ability of D. M. Canright than in God's power and God's grace to work with your efforts. You have not seen the necessity of devotion and faith.  {15MR 235.3}
[15MR 235.4]          You have felt elevated when a large congregation was before you, but frequently discouraged and disheartened at small beginnings and small                                       -236-     congregations. You need, my dear brother, to come down to where the living waters run. You need a fresh baptism from God, or you are unfit to labor anywhere for the conversion of souls. You both need a thorough work done for yourselves before you are fit to labor for others. You need to be transformed by the power of God, your thoughts and the exercise of your mind purified, elevated, and ennobled.  {15MR 235.4}
[15MR 236.1]          Upon another point I wish to speak in regard to your child. I tried kindly to point out the defect in your management, for the Lord had shown me much upon this subject. You regarded my counsels with silent indifference, perhaps with contempt that I should attempt to instruct you, its parents, as though I understood better than you. Nevertheless, I shall trace upon paper my settled convictions. When a minister has a child that is as peevish and fretful as yours, so frequently crying if crossed, and exhibiting passion, it is wrong to take the child around with him to be an annoyance to others. People will bear it because you are servants of Christ, but nevertheless you should have a sense of the impropriety of so doing.  {15MR 236.1}
[15MR 236.2]          I think from what I have observed, the child has been left to cry and to scream for attention when it pleased. Neither of you has felt it your duty to control it thoroughly and continuously, but ［you］ have let it cry and tease until the habit is formed. How much disturbance you make others you have not taken into account. It is ruinous to a child's disposition to let it fret and cry for attention. This I noticed you were both in the habit of doing, and seemed to be indifferent as to how much others might be disturbed with it.                                      -237-  {15MR 236.2}
[15MR 237.1]          Brother Canright would frequently sit reading, and make no effort to quiet the child. Sister Canright would hear her child fret and cry a passionate cry, and appear as indifferent as though she were chiseled out of marble. I have no hesitancy in saying this is wrong management and a wrong example to give to mothers. Ministers who have children that cannot be controlled, or that they do not choose to inconvenience themselves to train except spasmodically, should have a home and keep their children in it, and not annoy others and injure their own influence.  {15MR 237.1}
[15MR 237.2]          What kind of spirit and what kind of heart you had when you were with us in the mountains is still a mystery to me. I hope never to have the same unhappy experience to go over again. I only wonder that my husband bore as well as he did your deportment and your course.  {15MR 237.2}
[15MR 237.3]          I hope you will never in any place you go act over the same. I am distressed when I reflect upon it. Your lack of respect and reverence were painful. We deserved something better of you. We felt a great relief when you left, for the spirit you carried with you was oppressive. I have not the least fellowship or sympathy with that spirit, for I believe it to be the spirit of darkness. May the Lord help you to see that you had climbed above your calling and the simplicity of good, humble religion. You were both self-righteous and self-sufficient, exalted too high in your own opinion. You have a work to do in governing your child, which you have sinfully neglected.  {15MR 237.3}
[15MR 237.4]          Brother Canright, in your labors with others, you have been the man who was severe and overbearing. Where your gray-headed gospel father would be pitiful, discreet, and cautious, you have sometimes been provoking and                                      -238-     insolent. It is your nature to be overbearing. You manifest this to your own wife frequently, and you make her life very unhappy. You put on a dignity wholly unbecoming a young minister of the gospel.  {15MR 237.4}
[15MR 238.1]          There are many things you need to learn that are highly essential and worth knowing. You need to consider that others have just as good a right to think and have an opinion of their own as you have; that if all were just like you, and did as you do, there would be a very sad state of things in a short time. At times you have been indifferent to the wants of your wife, and her wishes have been disregarded. Yourself has occupied your thoughts. God is displeased with your dictatorial manner toward your wife and toward those with whom you come in contact. In these things you need to reform.  {15MR 238.1}
[15MR 238.2]          Mrs. Hutchinson said she came to the Health Institute deeply prejudiced against all Adventist Sabbathkeepers, because of your severe, overbearing course at Hutchinson. She said you did not take a right course in regard to their meetinghouse, and that you treated her and others wrong. She says she did not take a right course, and that she has a confession to make to you, and you have a confession to make to her.  {15MR 238.2}
[15MR 238.3]          If you have a work to do in this matter, do it by all means at once. She is now in deep affliction because of the death of her son, Fred. If you, a young man, could talk to my husband, a gray-headed, sick man, your father in the gospel, with such disrespect and with so little sense of propriety, I am fearful that you have given cause of complaint to Mrs. Hutchinson, a woman of gray hairs, a woman of influence. Surely her age should have led you to a kindly consideration and a proper deference, whatever course she may have pursued toward you.                                     -239-  {15MR 238.3}
[15MR 239.1]          If you have laid one straw in her way, as she claims you have, take it out of the way at once. As one whom God has taught, I entreat of you not to let one soul in Hutchinson turn from the truth with bitterness of spirit because of your rash impetuosity. Right these things for your soul's sake, humble your heart before God, and make any concession, at any cost to yourself, without compromising the truth. Mrs. Hutchinson stated that her prejudice against the Seventh-day Adventists was all removed after her acquaintance with them at the Health Institute.  {15MR 239.1}
[15MR 239.2]          Rashness is natural to you. You need to restrain yourself. Unless you bridle and restrain your rash spirit, you will be hurried to make some move which will ruin your usefulness forever. You may expend energy sufficient for the highest success, yet you will fail of achieving good and permanent results unless you are willing to receive instruction and to learn wisdom by receiving counsel of others.  {15MR 239.2}
[15MR 239.3]          Successful energy and rashness are two different elements. The former is power while the latter, unrestrained and uncontrolled, leads to destruction. Calm, unhurried efforts will do more than rash, hurried movements. Do not confound rashness with energy. Your energy is too much controlled by impulse. It is spasmodic, affected by circumstances and surroundings.  {15MR 239.3}
[15MR 239.4]          You are either on the pinnacle or down in the low slough of despond. An accidental circumstance will arouse you and call out every power of your soul. For a season, you will be exhilarated, and come up upon the wave of excitement or popularity. You will excel yourself and astonish your friends. But you are in danger of spending your force and losing the exhilarating power which stimulated you to action, and sink down into                                     -240-     despondency and discouragement. In these fitful efforts you lose more than you would gain by steady, earnest effort.  {15MR 239.4}
[15MR 240.1]          In the development of character, you do not show that you have cultivated a firm persevering, uniform, unyielding energy and faith. If you can preach upon subjects that are familiar to you, and which are your favorite subjects, you are at home, but get you off this marked line and you have but little force and but little courage, and you are not the man of opportunity fitted for any emergency. You need a deeper draught of salvation. Trust less in D. M. Canright, and more in the power of God's grace.  {15MR 240.1}
[15MR 240.2]         You need to surrender the soul to the claims of God, and renounce with loathing your smartness, your aptness, your sharpness, and melt into the work of God. Do your work from higher motives, having a living principle with you continually, which will bring the whole force of your intellect and affections into the highest state of sanctification to God and into healthy action.  {15MR 240.2}
[15MR 240.3]          It is not in the work of the ministry alone that you need the balance of firm principle and steady purpose and earnest energy. The Word of God demands the same principle to be carried out in the everyday duties of life. With earnest entreaty the wise man exhorts, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might." It is by the exercise of perseverance, energy, and faithfulness in doing little duties in life that we acquire power to engage in greater duties, and can be entrusted with graver responsibilities.  {15MR 240.3}
[15MR 240.4]          The duties which lie directly before us that someone must do, we should take hold of, and not shirk or shrink from doing them because they are not                                            -241-     agreeable to our inclinations. We may train the soul to put forth efforts, lifting the burdens and doing the duties that lie all around us, and become strong to conquer self in overcoming difficulties. Instead of being creatures of circumstances, we may be masters of circumstances, and may triumph in conquering obstacles. We need never be discouraged.  {15MR 240.4}
[15MR 241.1]          You both need a religion, to be imbued with the meek, self-sacrificing spirit of Christ, to be clothed with humility and stimulated by the power of God, to put forth efforts that will bear glorious results.  {15MR 241.1}
[15MR 241.2]          The lessons of self-denial, you have yet to learn. When you cultivate thoughts that nothing is too good for D. M. Canright, then it is time you ceased your work as a gospel minister. You are yet young and inexperienced. Deny yourself in little things as well as in great things, and avoid littleness as you would the leprosy. We can scarcely conceive of what contemptible meanness will grow upon a person if indulged. In all your plans of frugality, exclude meanness. Be ever watchful of the interest of those around you. You need to cultivate a tact of filling new positions, naturally adapting yourself to the new and opening providence of God. Make the most of your abilities in God, remembering that you must soon give an account of your stewardship.  {15MR 241.2}
[15MR 241.3]          Paul exhorts Timothy, "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed."  {15MR 241.3}
[15MR 241.4]          You are defective in perfecting Christian character. The absence of one qualification may hinder the successful operation of all the rest. The excess of one may counteract the proper action of all the rest.                                            -242-  {15MR 241.4}
[15MR 242.1]          Christ says of you, "Yet lackest thou one thing." He has given you a plain statement ［of］ what you lack. He has, through His humble servant, shown you that you lack devotion to the glory of God, that you lack moral excellence of character, which would lead you to have an unselfish interest for others. You may be, in the eyes of others, perfect, but in the sight of God you have a spotted character and have selfishness to overcome. These defects will corrupt all your virtue, unless they are overcome.  {15MR 242.1}
[15MR 242.2]         You should cultivate moral symmetry of character. You should be in earnest to see your defects now, and to correct them, that God may work with your efforts. You need your senses refined, elevated, purified. You need a work done for you which God alone is able to accomplish.  {15MR 242.2}
[15MR 242.3]          The third angel's message is most solemn, fearful, and important. To us God has entrusted it, and we are accountable for the way we handle this sacred, testing truth. If our defects of character betray us into sins which repulse souls and turn them from the truth, their blood will be upon our garments.  {15MR 242.3}
[15MR 242.4]          Nov. 15. The Lord is at work in this place. My husband has borne a very plain testimony, accompanied by the Spirit of God. Brother _____ has made a full confession of his wrong course at ［the］ last conference. Brethren Andrews and Waggoner have taken their stand fully, and are of better courage than they have been for years. We hope to see the cause here placed upon a firmer basis than ever before.  {15MR 242.4}
[15MR 242.5]          I hear of many remarks made by you both that if this church was not hammered at so much, they would be in a more prosperous condition. I was upon the point at the conference last spring of plainly stating in the                                            -243-     conference what had been shown me in regard to you, but I did not feel exactly clear. I had not had an intimation that you were not in perfect union with us, but I had heard remarks from several that Sister Canright neglected her child to do writing for you. Why do you require this? Does not the woman have burdens enough? But since I returned this time our best and most experienced brethren have for the first time stated their feelings in regard to your spirit at the conference without my calling out any expression from them.  {15MR 242.5}
[15MR 243.1]          They say that they were satisfied you were lifted up and had but little of the Spirit of God with you. Many observed your movements in taking the chairs and moving them from the stand, moving the table and making special preparations as if for an exhibition of D. M. Canright. Many said that your sermon had not the right ring. You raised your voice to a loud pitch, and it was painful to bear; and the absence of the Spirit of God was apparent to very many. It was regarded by some of your best friends as being an exhibition of D. M. Canright, or, in the very words used, "He preached D. M. Canright and not Jesus Christ."  {15MR 243.1}
[15MR 243.2]          I write you this that you may understand how others viewed your labors at the conference.  {15MR 243.2}
[15MR 243.3]          I want you to see that the influence of such preaching is not unto salvation. I hope and pray that you may both see what your influence has been. And I hope you will realize that you have caused us intense anxiety by your course when you visited us.  {15MR 243.3}
[15MR 243.4]          You made the remark, Elder Canright, to my husband in my presence that you did not come there to be his servant and be ordered about like a boy,                                            -244-     that you were a man and you had the feelings of a man. I felt these remarks keenly, and thought that if you were a man you had far less sense of propriety than many boys half your age would have had. I have no delicacy in speaking plainly to you as a mother would to her son, for I know that unless you lay aside this unreasonable, unbecoming dignity you will do no good in the gospel field.  {15MR 243.4}
[15MR 244.1]          In what did we make you a servant? Did we ask you to serve us in any way wherein yourself did not reap the benefit? Did my husband ask you to do anything that he thought was beneath him to do? Did we not both of us do the very thing we asked you to unite with us doing? Did you do anything that would injure your health? Did not I bring wood, wash dishes, sweep floors, and wash clothes? Did I try to excuse myself from engaging in the disagreeable duties? Did not my husband work to great weariness because there was something to do that someone must do?  {15MR 244.1}
[15MR 244.2]          We are the ones who should have been considered and favored, but you had not experience in this line. We were worn and prematurely gray from care, anxiety, and unnecessary burdens in this cause brought upon us by our brethren pursuing just such a course as you pursued. You were deceived by Satan, and I hope you will see this to its full extent.  {15MR 244.2}
[15MR 244.3]          When we tried to pray, and the Lord sanctioned our prayers by His Spirit, you braced yourself not to be moved, not to let the least mite of influence of our prayers, our counsel, and advice move you. We understand this spirit. We have not been engaged in this war, battling for the right for 26 years, and yet be in darkness as to what kind of spirit had control of you at our house. We call it by its right name--the spirit of Satan. I                                            -245-     think you both took your position with an understanding to retain your own judgment and views at all events.  {15MR 244.3}
[15MR 245.1]          You have but little experience, either of you, in exercising faith in God. You lack devotion and good, humble religion. You need to be transformed and ennobled. You need the disinterested benevolence that characterized the life of Christ.  {15MR 245.1}
[15MR 245.2]          Consider me not an enemy because I tell you the truth. I long and pray that you may be found in your right mind sitting at the feet of Jesus and learning of Him. If you imitate Christ, you will be willing even to be a servant. He was the King of Glory, yet He was a servant of fallen man. I pray the Lord to help you to get rid of some of your lofty ideas of yourself, and come down in meekness, feeling your nothingness without Christ. Then will He be unto you a very present help in time of need. Then will He make your labors effectual, and souls will be converted from error to truth through your labors.  {15MR 245.2}
[15MR 245.3]          You have brought grave charges against us, in the letter to my husband. I felt that I would not notice them. But I will dwell a moment upon them. In regard to our diet, we have not placed butter on our table for ourselves for years, until we came to the Rocky Mountains. We felt that a little butter, in the absence of vegetables and fruit, was less detrimental to health than the use of much salt or sugar, sweet cake, and knickknacks. We do not use it now, and have not for many weeks.  {15MR 245.3}
[15MR 245.4]         In regard to our using spice, I plead not guilty. We have not had spice in our house for ten years, except a little ginger, which we have always used to some extent.                                          -246-  {15MR 245.4}
[15MR 246.1]          We have always used a little milk and some sugar. This we have never denounced, either in our writings or in our preaching. We believe cattle will become so much diseased that these things will yet be discarded, but the time has not yet come for sugar and milk to be wholly abolished from our tables.  {15MR 246.1}
[15MR 246.2]          In regard to cheese, I am now quite sure we have not purchased or placed on our table cheese for years. We never think of making cheese an article of diet, much less of buying it. I tell you, Lucretia, how your buying the cheese at our house looks to us--that you did it to tempt us just as _____ tempted my husband in his feebleness. You said you heard Brother White ask Mr. Walling for a taste of cheese. He had none. You bought a few pounds. You asked him one day if he wanted some cheese. He said "No." You asked me. I said I did not eat it. The cheese lay in the cupboard untouched until Mr. Lasley and Walling came to dinner. It was then placed before them. We took a small bit of cheese, as we do sometimes when it is passed to us. But we do not, understand, buy cheese, or make a practice of eating it. My husband felt when he saw the bit of cheese that was in Walling's wagon that he would like merely a taste of it.  {15MR 246.2}
[15MR 246.3]         I have not had, to my knowledge, a particle of pepper in the house for ten years. When Lucinda went up to Mr. Walling's mills, I said to her, "Get me a little pinch of pepper, and I will try to eat some beans." I thought the pepper would perhaps prevent them from causing me to have the colic. But I think so little of what I eat, it never entered my mind that there was any pepper. So much for pepper. I claim that we live very plain and economical.                                         -247-     Lucretia, if you did not mean to tempt us in buying cheese, what did you mean? Did you buy that cheese merely because you wanted to gratify the wish of my husband? If so, you could have gratified his taste for fresh, dried black raspberries which you heard him often speaking of desiring. You had them but did not cook them. You heard him often express a wish for this, but you did not gratify it. He could not eat strawberries, but kept wishing for raspberries. If my husband had wanted cheese, he could have bought it, for he was at Black Hawk and Central as often as three times a week. What your motive was, you know and the Lord knows, but we do not.  {15MR 246.3}
[15MR 247.1]          In regard to corsets, there is nothing in my use of corsets contrary to what I have ever spoken or written against. I do not practice wearing them except when bloated with dropsy, to press down my abdomen and give me a chance to breathe.  {15MR 247.1}
[15MR 247.2]          In regard to steel springs, I have worn two in my skirts or cords always. Before coming to Colorado, I asked someone to buy me two steel springs to run in my skirt. In the place of doing this, they bought four steel springs fastened with tapes, skeleton fashion. I have worn it a few times, but it is not what I wanted and what I like. I do not wear it, though I consider there is no harm in this for anyone to wear. In my view of the wrong of hooped skirts, it was the deformity and the indecency of their appearance when they were worn so large, that was objectionable. There is nothing indecent or unbecoming in the small hoops or in the steel springs, two of them run into a skirt.  {15MR 247.2}
[15MR 247.3]          I cannot think of other charges, except breaking the Sabbath. What you mean, I know not. I have ever been particular in regard to the observance                                          -248-     of the Sabbath in my conversation and actions. In regard to writing, I know my duty on that point. I am no more breaking the Sabbath in my writing than the priest who offered more sacrifices upon the Sabbath than upon any other days of the week.  {15MR 247.3}
[15MR 248.1]          I think that in watching and accusing us, you were both engaged in the same work as were the Pharisees in accusing Christ. They watched to catch Him in His words or to find something in His actions that they could use as an occasion against Him. As Christ said to them, I say to you, "Ye strain at a gnat and swallow a camel." Set your poor, proud hearts right, and you will have so great a work to do you will feel that you have nothing to do in accusing your brethren and sisters. I do not think the best way to glorify God in observing the Sabbath is to go to bed and sleep away the sacred hours.  {15MR 248.1}
[15MR 248.2]          We feel sincere pity for your blindness. Such freaks ［SUDDEN CAUSELESS CHANGE OR TURN OF THE MIND; TO DO FREAKISH ACTS; DIVERGING FROM WHAT IS NATURAL OR NORMAL.--WEBSTER.］ as yours cost too much to us and to the cause of God. God is in earnest with us. He will not be trifled with. Be careful how you move. It costs too much to you and to the cause, for you to be pettish and jealous and to move rashly and independently and bring ruin upon yourselves.  {15MR 248.2}
[15MR 248.3]         I have spoken plainly but I assure you I have nothing but love and am earnest for you to come where God can use you to His glory.  {15MR 248.3}
[15MR 248.4]          I can write no more now. Please copy this if you wish, or read it and send me the original direct to Santa Rosa, California. We leave here for California this week. The work of God is progressing here. It is now                                         -249-     November 24. Last Sabbath nearly the entire church came forward for prayers. Every seat in the body of the house was filled and some of the side pews. I never saw a more interesting sight or felt more solemn sense of the power of God. -- Letter 1, 1873.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. November 7, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 248.4}
[15MR 250.1]       MR No. 1168 - More Souls May Be Won by Camp Meetings Than by Gospel Wagons; The Importance of Providing Church Buildings for New Converts         (Written December 18, 1898, from Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N.S.W., to Dr. John Harvey Kellogg.)  {15MR 250.1}
[15MR 250.2]          Some good will result from equipping Gospel Wagons in America, and thousands of dollars will be consumed in this way. When the season is ended, some sheaves may be gathered, but not many. The money could be used in lines that would have a more lasting influence. Camp meetings should be more abundant, but not large. Gospel Wagons will not accomplish the work of these meetings. They will not have the very best influence over those who work in connection with them. They will have a sort of infatuation for many who will think, "That is just the kind of work I would like to do--to ride through the country, and sing, and listen to instrumental music." But this kind of labor does not make the best impression on minds.  {15MR 250.2}
[15MR 250.3]         In the place of having one mammoth camp meeting, have several small camp meetings. And when companies are raised up in the places where these meetings are held, let a place of worship be built for them. We cannot do otherwise here, so that labor shall not be lost. To do otherwise is too much like carrying a torch through a district in the night. The places where the torchbearer goes are light, but there are not many tapers kindled from his torch, to become true workers in giving light to others.  {15MR 250.3}
[15MR 250.4]          People have been called to the Gospel Wagon to listen to the music and the speeches that are made. But after they are gone little is left on the mind that will ripen into fruit. Many are enchanted with these outward performances; but the life and work of Christ was not after this order. God                                        -251-     has not appointed us to proclaim the truth in this way, when there are better methods. Outward display is not to characterize our work.  {15MR 250.4}
[15MR 251.1]          Please consider this before you spend on Gospel Wagon thousands of dollars. This money would erect humble houses of worship, something that the people really need, where they can meet to worship God. After an effort has been made in a certain place, do not leave that place without building a church. Then you must go farther. A school building should be erected, and a school teacher employed to educate the children. Thus the whole community may hear the last message of warning.  {15MR 251.1}
[15MR 251.2]          We should employ methods of work that are not transient. Every action should be done solidly, for time and for eternity. We must not give the impression that we link amusement with the solemn work for this time.  {15MR 251.2}
[15MR 251.3]          We have just visited Queensland. Both in Brisbane and Rockhampton there are companies of our people, but they need places of worship. The basement of a church can be used as a schoolroom.  {15MR 251.3}
[15MR 251.4]          We have a most serious work to do. We are not merely to exalt the medical missionary work. The reasons of our faith are to be given in clear, distinct lines. Meet the people where they are. Outward attractions and display may encourage sensational ideas that will spoil some of the workers and the influence they leave behind. The Lord Jesus Christ was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, but He laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and humbled Himself to meet the people where they are. The last days are upon us, and you, my brother, are devising ways to consume means which could be better invested by building churches for the people, in which they can meet to worship God.                                         -252-  {15MR 251.4}
[15MR 252.1]          I send you a letter from Brother Haskell. This will show you the situation of things in Brisbane. There is not a place in which they can meet to worship God, and the rains have been breaking up their meetings in the tent. Souls are deeply convicted, and several have taken their stand. But the rain has come, and the tent is very much like a sieve. But the interest still continues good, and if at this time a house of worship could be built in that large city, the souls who are seeking for truth would take courage.  {15MR 252.1}
[15MR 252.2]          We are very sorry to say that our dear Brother Wilson has had a severe hemorrhage of the lungs. On Friday last a telegram came from Sister Wilson soliciting us to pray for her husband at six o'clock Sabbath evening. We did so, and had a very solemn season of prayer. We presented to the Lord the promise, "Ask, and ye shall receive."  {15MR 252.2}
[15MR 252.3]          This cuts off the only helper that Brother Haskell has. There are a large number of inquirers for truth in Brisbane, and a church should be built there. But funds are lacking. We have drawn and drawn upon our people here to help sustain the school and the health food enterprise, and we cannot ask them to do much toward this church. If outside parties in Brisbane will help by furnishing the land, that will be something. But as far as money is concerned, we have been using up and borrowing money until now I have nothing with which to pay my workers. They have waited six months.--Letter 124, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. December 5, 1985. Entire Letter.  {15MR 252.3}
[15MR 253.1]       MR No. 1169 - Instruction to Believers         The first chapter of Colossians is a decided address to every believer. The Holy Spirit indited this instruction for the help of those who should afterward compose the church, as well as for those to whom Paul addressed his letter.  {15MR 253.1}
[15MR 253.2]          The apostle writes: ［Colossians 1:1-11, quoted］.        This Scripture speaks of the vital union which should exist between Christ and His disciples. Constantly we are to strive to obtain this union. The religion which consists only of profession is but a pretense. Those whose union with Christ ends with the writing of their names on the church roll are not channels of light.  {15MR 253.2}
[15MR 253.3]          "Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son" ［verses 12, 13］. The great object for which Christ came to our world was to demonstrate the falsity of Satan's claim to the sovereignty of the world and to reassert the original and supreme ownership of God and His supreme authority. As the Restorer and Life-giver, Christ placed Himself in the enemy's pathway. He planted His cross midway between heaven and earth, that He might wrestle with and overcome the powers of darkness. He gave His life for the life of sinners, and Satan, the prince of the world, was cast out.                                          -254-  {15MR 253.3}
[15MR 254.1]         ［Colossians 1:14-23, quoted.］        We have been taught by God concerning the great plan of redemption. This should be to us a matter of earnest thanksgiving. God's promises will never fail if we constantly watch unto prayer. Having learned the excellent way, we are to be sanctified body, soul, and spirit. We are to be purified and cleansed through the washing of the Word. I am instructed to say that it is the privilege of everyone to be grounded and settled in the faith. No one who exercises that faith which works by love and purifies the soul will be moved away from the hope of the gospel.  {15MR 254.1}
[15MR 254.2]          Cherishing goodness in the heart is a work which many have strangely neglected. Those whose hearts are sanctified and cleansed will follow no sharp practices. God despises a selfish, covetous spirit. Evil passions fill the heart that is actuated by selfishness. Selfishness leads to oppression, and as acts of oppression are repeated, the intellect is corrupted, and fails to make correct decisions.  {15MR 254.2}
[15MR 254.3]          In no case will Christ serve with unfair, unfaithful dealing. "You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in His sight" ［verses 21, 22］. God calls for intelligent Christians, for men and women who are filled with the knowledge of His will. We need to feel the converting power of truth. This will remove the arbitrary exactions which have done such harm, casting a cloud over the minds of men. The Lord calls for men and women who by their good works show that the truth has brought about a change in their lives. His workers are now to draw out the threads of selfishness which have marred the pattern.                                         -255-  {15MR 254.3}
[15MR 255.1]         Our knowledge should give spirituality to the understanding. Our knowledge of the Scriptures should be practical. The Lord is pleased when those who are connected with Him are filled with a knowledge of His will. His servants should daily gain more knowledge of Him. Daily they should grow in grace and in spiritual understanding, strengthened with might according to His glorious power. They are to increase in spiritual efficiency, that they may give strength to the people of God.  {15MR 255.1}
[15MR 255.2]          God does not ask sinners to enter His service with their natural traits of character, to make a failure before the heavenly universe and before the world. He does not ask a man who is unconverted to attempt to serve Him. Those who have not been brought under the control of the law of justice and mercy might better step down from their position of authority until they learn that the Lord will have mercy and not sacrifice.  {15MR 255.2}
[15MR 255.3]          The hard, cruel spirit which judges and condemns has left the trace of the enemy upon everything. But mercy is to come in and lay her broad impress upon every plan. The world is to see principles different from those which have hitherto been presented. Christ has erected the cross. He does not call upon any man to manufacture tests and crosses for His people. He presents His requirements before them, and gives them the invitation, "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］. Wear My yoke, and in your daily experience you will find the rest which comes only to the obedient.                                            -256-  {15MR 255.3}
[15MR 256.1]          Christ invites all to come to Him, but when they come, they are to lay aside their sins. All their vices and follies, all their pride and worldliness, are to be laid at ［the foot of］ His cross. This He requires because He loves them, and desires to save them, not in their sins but from their sins. He who accepts the truth longs for transformation, and the light comes to him in bright rays.  {15MR 256.1}
[15MR 256.2]          The truth is to be believed and practiced, because Christ asserts it to be the word of the living God. The brightest beams of light from the threshold of heaven are thrown on the pathway in which God requires His people to walk. When sinners accept Christ as their personal Saviour, they realize the greatness of God's gift to them, and praise and thanksgiving flow to the divine Giver.  {15MR 256.2}
[15MR 256.3]          The recovery of souls from sin is to be a revenue of goodness to men and of glory to God.  {15MR 256.3}
[15MR 256.4]          But how many offer praise and thanksgiving to God? How many, by thanking the Giver, show that they appreciate their blessings? How many give thanks to the Father, "which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light? We have redemption through His blood. He has delivered us from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of His Son. The heavenly angels are constantly engaged in serving us, bringing to us the most wonderful opportunities. Why then should we be so slow to express our thanksgiving? Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God. A fragrant atmosphere surrounds the believing, thankful soul who offers grateful praise to His heavenly Father. Let all appreciate the blessings of the Lord. We reflect bright beams of light when in the home and in the church we express our appreciation of the Lord's goodness.                                            -257-  {15MR 256.4}
[15MR 257.1]          ［Colossians 1:26-29, quoted.］ Through His human instrumentalities God desires to demonstrate the power of His grace. By His saints He would make known among the Gentiles the riches of His plan of redemption.  {15MR 257.1}
[15MR 257.2]          In all wisdom people are to be warned and taught. Those who are seeking to win souls to Christ must be guarded in every action, lest they make a wrong impression on those for whom they are working. The Lord will give success to those who in spiritual and temporal lines will deal faithfully with human minds. Let those who work for Christ put on Christ. Then there will be a continual advancement in knowledge and understanding, an advancement that will make an impression on the world.  {15MR 257.2}
[15MR 257.3]          Those who are daily learning of Christ will become so meek and lowly that Christ can lead them. He will go before them, as their righteousness. As they follow in His footsteps, fulfilling His requirements, many will take knowledge of them that they have been with Christ. Their lives are conformed to the truth, and as they reveal the Saviour's character in their lives, they are doing the work that He did. As they behold Christ, they are changed from glory to glory, from character to character. Such believers will move the world. Let us strive for Christ's peace and gentleness, that it may be said of us as it was said of Him, "Thy gentleness hath made me great."--Ms 44, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. December 5, 1985. Entire document.  {15MR 257.3}
[15MR 258.1]       MR No. 1170 - Right Preparation for Medical Missionary Work         (Written August 3, 1904, from Washington, D. C., to Dr. W. H. Riley, a physician at the Battle Creek Sanitarium.)  {15MR 258.1}
[15MR 258.2]          I have a most earnest desire that you shall stand free in the Lord. I pray that you may have the moral courage to stand firm for the truth, and to hold fast the beginning of your confidence unto the end. Do not allow yourself to be led away from truth to receive fables. It is of no avail to bring to the foundation material represented by wood, hay, and stubble. Such material will be utterly consumed. Let us remember that we have been bought at an infinite price by the Son of God. Our physicians must not allow themselves to be held in control by another man's mind, as they have been, fearing to open their lips to differ with their chief.  {15MR 258.2}
[15MR 258.3]          The missionaries of the Christian church are to stand in their God-given manhood, with the privilege of exercising freedom of speech and freedom of faith. When they see that a fellow laborer is not doing as a man in his position ought to do, they are not to harmonize with his plans, or to be cowered into silence by a masterful spirit. For them to do this would be a great injury to him and to them.  {15MR 258.3}
[15MR 258.4]          Our physicians should not be required to verify statements that they know are not true. How dare they do this? How dare anyone require it? They do great harm to a speaker when they listen to false statements without making any protest or correction.                                            -259-  {15MR 258.4}
[15MR 259.1]          Our physicians are to stand where no binding influence will hold them speechless when they hear wrong sentiments expressed. At times, with burning earnestness and words of terrible severity, Christ denounced the abominations that He saw in the church and in the world. He would not allow the people to be deceived by false claims to righteousness and sanctity.  {15MR 259.1}
[15MR 259.2]          We are to unify, but not on a platform of error. That which has been said in the Testimonies in regard to Living Temple and its misleading sentiments, is not overdrawn. Some of its theories are misleading, and their influence will be to close the minds of those who receive them against the truth for this time. Men may explain in regard to those theories, nevertheless they are contrary to the truth. Scriptures are misplaced and misapplied, taken out of their connection and given a wrong application. Thus those are deceived who have not a vital, personal experience in the truths that have made us as a people what we are.  {15MR 259.2}
[15MR 259.3]          We are living amidst the perils of the last days. We are to watch unto prayer. We are to put our entire trust in God, glorifying Him. Daily we are to learn lessons from the greatest Medical Missionary that ever trod this earth. He is our tabernacle of witness for heavenly things. He will not accept that which has been done in bringing so much of a commercial spirit into the medical missionary work, neither will He accept the Laodicean condition of the Medical Missionary Association. This association is not doing the work indicated by its name. It is not preparing a people to obtain a sound, healthy experience, which will stand the test of the judgment. I am sorry, for God is dishonored. His work, which should be a praise in the earth, is belittled. False sentiments have been entertained, and a strange work has been done.                                            -260-  {15MR 259.3}
[15MR 260.1]          The great Medical Missionary was a wonderful healer. He worked the most convincing miracles. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He spoke only the truth. Continually there fell from His lips the precious words that bring spiritual strength to those who make them a part of the daily life. Spiritually we are built up from the food that we give the mind.  {15MR 260.1}
[15MR 260.2]          It is our privilege to receive the bread of life from the great Medical Missionary, who came to give life to the world. Truth, pure, refining, ennobling truth, came from His very heart. He spoke words of heavenly wisdom, which will make men wise unto salvation. His heart was constantly burning with the love that brought Him from heaven to our world. His goodness and His power enabled Him to reveal in His life the truth that He came to this earth to bring to the fallen race.  {15MR 260.2}
[15MR 260.3]          In every word, in every fact, He manifested the love of God, cheering and encouraging the downcast and distressed. In heavenly wisdom He asserted His true majesty by bending all things to the present and future happiness of human beings. He came to teach men and women how to live here below the life of which He gave them an example--the life that will make them fit to enter the abodes of bliss.  {15MR 260.3}
[15MR 260.4]          In His breast mercy may be said to have held her court. Hear His words of compassion, spoken to relieve the sin-sick culprit, "Thy sins be forgiven thee" ［Matthew 9:2］. His work was a representation of true medical missionary work. He brought healing to soul and body. In His life was enshrouded the love, the pity, the compassion, the joy, of heaven. Thousands were healed by His word, "I will; be thou whole." By His work, His glory was so plainly revealed that demons were pained, and when compelled to cease tormenting human beings, confessed Christ to be the Holy One of God.                                          -261-  {15MR 260.4}
[15MR 261.1]          This work Christ did to show men that He was the tabernacle of witness, that the Word had been made flesh. In the human encampment, amongst the erring and sinful, Christ pitched His tent. He lived close to the poor and the lowly, yet He was the King of glory. He would make all familiar with His character, that we might be partakers of the divine nature, and thus become one with Him in faith and practice. He declares, "All things are delivered to Me of My Father" ［Matthew 11:27］. "All things that the Father hath are Mine" ［John 16:15］. "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth" ［Matthew 28:18］. Why was this wonderful transfer made but that Christ might be the world's Redeemer, the incarnate Saviour!  {15MR 261.1}
[15MR 261.2]         To John the Baptist, shut up in prison because of his fearless testimony against the licentiousness and the unlawful marriage of Herod, there came discouragement. He thought, Why does not Christ exercise His power and deliver me from prison? He sent his disciples to Christ with the inquiry, "Art Thou He that should come? or look we for another?" ［Luke 7:19］.  {15MR 261.2}
[15MR 261.3]          At the time, Christ was surrounded with the sick and with those who desired forgiveness of sins. Instead of immediately answering John's disciples, He turned to the multitude. The arm mighty to save was made bare. He spoke, and the deaf heard His voice. He touched the eyes of the blind, and they opened to behold the blessed light of day. At His word fever was rebuked. He looked on the dying, and they were brought back to life and health. The frenzied demoniac was freed from the power of evil spirits, and fell down and worshiped the Deliverer, declaring Him to be the Christ of God.                                         -262-     Then, turning to John's messengers, Christ said, "Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; . . . and blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me" ［Luke 7:22, 23］.  {15MR 261.3}
[15MR 262.1]          When Jesus was about to ascend to His Father, He gave His ministry of healing to His followers, leaving with them 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 alway, even unto the end of the world" ［Matthew 28:19, 20］.  {15MR 262.1}
[15MR 262.2]          The great Teacher, while on this earth, gave His whole life to teach us how to work as devoted, consecrated missionaries for God. In the prayer that He offered for His disciples just before His trial and crucifixion, He declared, "I have glorified Thee on the earth: I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do. . . . I have manifested Thy name unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world" ［John 17:4, 6］.  {15MR 262.2}
[15MR 262.3]          He came to our world to reveal the character of God. At the hands of those whom He sought to save, He received insult, mockery, and abuse. They crucified Him, but He broke the fetters of the tomb, and ascended to His Father, there to intercede as our Mediator.  {15MR 262.3}
[15MR 262.4]          The words that we are commanded to teach are the very words that Christ spoke while on this earth. We can dispense with human sophistry. Those who teach it will not have the heavenly endorsement, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." I call upon you, my brother, to be a free man. The time you have spent in the Sanitarium has not given you the qualifications that would fit you to be a co-worker with the great Medical Missionary in saving souls. Had you placed yourself under the instruction                                         -263-     of the greatest Teacher the world has ever known, He would have given you an education that would have prepared you to work with Him. You would not have obtained an experience that would have almost unfitted you to be Christ's co-laborer in the healing of the souls and bodies of His people.  {15MR 262.4}
[15MR 263.1]          Men and women are being held in the Battle Creek Sanitarium who are needed in the world to proclaim the message that the Lord is soon to come with power and great glory. This warning message must be proclaimed. Those who know the truth for this time are to go forth to take it to those who know it not. They are to cooperate with Christ, the great Missionary, whose work it was to draw men to God. He was content to conceal Himself, to hide His divinity under the garb of humanity.  {15MR 263.1}
[15MR 263.2]          I call upon those who are at Battle Creek losing their faith and losing their first love, to come away and take hold of the work of God in neglected fields, as soon as they have recovered from the influence of the seducing theories that have threatened to spoil them for the ministry of the word and for the precious missionary work in which they might engage were they fully established in the faith. Actions speak louder than words.  {15MR 263.2}
[15MR 263.3]          A world is perishing in sin, and God calls for workers. He wants one thousand at work in the highways and the hedges, where now there is but one. We have no time to listen to idle tales and false science. The faith of many will be revived when they will humble their hearts before God, and go forth to fulfill the commission of Christ, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."  {15MR 263.3}
[15MR 263.4]          Had a large part of the company of students who have been gathered into Battle Creek, engaged in the work as evangelists, colporteurs, and canvassers, trying in humility to teach the Word, there would have been a much                                          -264-     more spiritual and sacredly intelligent medical working company. Had they gone forth, taking Christ as their Teacher, many who may never again become settled in the truth would have received an education that would have enabled them to open the Scriptures to others. Large numbers would have been converted and would have put out their talents to usury, teaching the things that Christ has commanded. But alas, they have been given a knowledge that, in the day of judgment, when the books will be opened, and every man judged according to the deeds done in the body, they will wish they had never accepted. Better never to have learned the lessons they have been learning in unbelief and lack of faith, in sophistry and untruthful representations.  {15MR 263.4}
[15MR 264.1]          Oh, may God open blind eyes! May He have pity on our people, who have so little judgment and wisdom!--Letter 281, 1904.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. February 13, 1986. Entire Letter.  {15MR 264.1}
[15MR 265.1]       MR No. 1171 - Encouragement for One Who Had Been Bereaved         (Written January 5, 1894, from Melbourne, Australia, to "My dear Brother ［J. R.］ McCoy," shortly after he had received word, by telegram, of the death of his wife and one of his daughters on Pitcairn Island.)  {15MR 265.1}
[15MR 265.2]          We feel sad indeed to part with you at this time. We hoped that you would be privileged to be with us during the entire course of the meetings now in progress. To every man God has given his work. Grave and weighty responsibilities rest upon you, and you have a duty to do for your people upon the island. They love and respect you. You have a Christlike interest in them. Your interest is identified with theirs.  {15MR 265.2}
[15MR 265.3]          Much as you desire to remain during the entire conference, your interest for your own loved ones in your island home and the responsibilities which are resting upon you, lead you to feel that you cannot longer remain with us. We must say farewell. As you sail upon the waters of the Pacific, our prayers shall follow you. Thank the Lord that Jesus is chief Commander on board the vessel, and He will bring you safely to your destination.  {15MR 265.3}
[15MR 265.4]          As you take this voyage, you will have many hours for reflection. Sad thoughts will necessarily come, but these sorrowful reflections will be mingled with joy, for you will have hope that in the soon coming of the morn of the resurrection you will meet your loved ones who have so recently fallen in death. The broken links of the family chains will then be reunited, and together you will meet Him whom you all love and adore--Jesus, the center and foundation of all your hopes, the author and finisher of your                                         -266-     faith. Then there will be joy in the morning such as never before has been known by the redeemed saints. John says, ［Revelation 7:9-17, quoted］.  {15MR 265.4}
[15MR 266.1]          Praise God for these precious words. Praise God, praise His holy name that we have been led to the cross of Christ, and we understand that our only hope is to renounce self and all dependence in anything and everything, and take Jesus as our Saviour, a complete Redeemer. "Unto you therefore which believe, He is precious." He can be precious only to those who believe. "Hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments." "This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments."  {15MR 266.1}
[15MR 266.2]          My brother, you will be sorely tried and tempted at times; but ever remember that Jesus Christ is at your right hand to help you. Cast all your burdens upon the Lord, for He hath promised, "I will never leave thee nor forsake thee." 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.  {15MR 266.2}
[15MR 266.3]          As we talk of Jesus, as we call upon Him in prayer, our confidence that He is our personal, loving Saviour will strengthen, and His character will appear more and more lovely. We will understand that He does not "afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men." 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.  {15MR 266.3}
[15MR 266.4]          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                                         -267-     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.  {15MR 266.4}
[15MR 267.1]          We abide in Him, and feel at home with Jesus. The promises flow into 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.  {15MR 267.1}
[15MR 267.2]          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 in word and deportment that we are conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God." The language expressed by John will be the language of every individual soul: "We have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him."  {15MR 267.2}
[15MR 267.3]          Oh, that we will have the meekness and lowliness of Christ! My dear brother in Christ, we will not allow Satan to triumph by expressing one doubt of the love of God for us. We may suffer sickness and bereavement,                                         -268-     but God is our loving heavenly Father still, and we will not murmur. In trouble, however trying, let us heed the precious words of encouragement. "Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me." This is the privilege of all God's people. The promise is not for a favored few. Jesus lives, my brother. He will go with you over the broad waters. Your faith will be tried; but you must believe, believe, believe. Cling to the arm of infinite power. God's hand will hold you more firmly than you can hold to Him. While you trust in Him, He will never let you go or leave you to perish. May the Lord bless you day by day is the prayer of you sister, Ellen G. White.--Letter 52, 1894.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. February 13, 1986. Entire Letter.  {15MR 267.3}
[15MR 269.1]       MR No. 1174 - The Motive Determines the Quality of the Act         The daily life of the Christian should bring no discredit upon our holy faith. The motive of the heart, as well as the words and actions, is weighed in estimating our moral worth. Those who rejected Christ, the Lord of glory, knew not that He was the Prince of life, else they would not have crucified Him.  {15MR 269.1}
[15MR 269.2]          Reliance on forms and ceremonies will not save us. The lawyer whom Christ found wanting in love to God and to his neighbor, which is the very essence of religion, could have vindicated himself on the ground of ceremonial correctness. He could have said with Paul that, as touching the law, he was blameless. But the Lord defines Bible religion as a principle in the soul, not merely the performance of virtuous acts, although virtuous acts are the natural fruit of this principle in the soul. It is the spirit in which the acts are performed rather than the performance that counts with God.  {15MR 269.2}
[15MR 269.3]          A man may give his goods to feed the poor, his body to be burned, yet if he is not actuated by the living principles of love for God and man his work is a failure. God looks at the heart. We must repent and believe.-- Letter 22, 1889.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. February 13, 1986.  {15MR 269.3}
[15MR 270.1]       MR No. 1175 - Disagreements Concerning College View         (From a letter written to Elder and Mrs. G. A. Irwin on October 14, 1902, concerning a visit from Dr. Kellogg in which he expressed his views that Mrs. White had been misinformed about the meeting at College View.)  {15MR 270.1}
[15MR 270.2]          Before the last General Conference, Dr. Kellogg came to St. Helena, and had some conversation with me. I was very weak, and I told him so. I knew that I was not strong enough to talk with him. Nevertheless, he gave me his account of the scene at the meeting at College View. He presented things contrary to the way in which they had been presented to me by the Lord. He related matters as if he were the one who had been wronged. I said, "The Lord has instructed me in regard to that matter. When I am convinced that it is the Lord's will for me to change my opinions, I will let you know. But I cannot now speak with you, for I have no strength." Dr. Kellogg said that he did not expect me to say anything.  {15MR 270.2}
[15MR 270.3]          Well, the matter passed on until some time after the Conference, when Dr. Kellogg again visited me at St. Helena, and once more repeated the same thing. He spoke with the same spirit of self-justification that he had spoken before. When he had finished, I said, "I wish you to understand, Dr. Kellogg, that every word that I have written to you in regard to that scene, is correct." But he would not accept the way in which I presented the matter as being correct, and I would not accept his statement.  {15MR 270.3}
[15MR 270.4]          I have not seen Dr. Kellogg since, except for a few minutes when I was at South Lancaster. But I was taken very ill with a severe cold and could not talk with anyone.  {15MR 270.4}
[15MR 270.5]          There the matter stands. But every word of the presentation regarding the scene at College View is true.  {15MR 270.5}
[15MR 270.6]          Dr. Kellogg seemed to care nothing about the after-results. I told him that he had grieved the Spirit of God, and that he must never again act toward his brethren as he acted in that meeting.--Letter 160, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. February 13, 1986.  {15MR 270.6}
[15MR 271.1]       MR No. 1176 - False Humility         Those who presume to think that they stand accepted on account of their ministerial commission, their multitudinous duties and exercises of devotion, make a grave mistake. Often their lips express a poverty of soul that their heart does not acknowledge. While speaking to God of poverty of spirit, of the defections of others, the heart is swelling with the conceit of their superior humility, the exercise of their superior righteousness. This is humility upon stilts. When the Lord touches their defects by reproof, they do not receive it, or believe it.--Letter 45, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. February 13, 1986  {15MR 271.1}
[15MR 272.1]       MR No. 1178 - Building and Managing Sanitariums and Other Health Institutions              (Written in September, 1887, at Battle Creek, Michigan.)          I have received letters from different States asking me to answer their inquiries in regard to the wisdom of investing means in building sanitariums, where the sick may be treated and where there could be a right influence exerted to point sick souls to Jesus, who is the Great Physician of the soul as well as of the body. This is a question that cannot be answered in quick, Italian fashion with "Yes" or "No." There are many sides to this question.  {15MR 272.1}
[15MR 272.2]          Letters have come to me from Ohio. They have erected a health institution there. Some of our ministers and leading men in Ohio have acted a prominent part in the building of this institution, and now they find that they have no one who is able to run such an institution. There were monied men, I have been told, who would put thousands into this institution but ［who］ could not be induced to invest means in our home or foreign missions.  {15MR 272.2}
[15MR 272.3]          I came fresh from Europe, where I had seen fields open before us on every side. Hearts were being softened, and were longing for the truth. Calls were constantly coming from all countries for books and for preachers. All was done that could be done, but there was an empty treasury and a want of qualified men who had experience to do a good work, in wisdom presenting the truth as it is in Jesus.                                          -273-  {15MR 272.3}
[15MR 273.1]          I attended our camp meetings. I tried to set the condition of things before our people and, besides that, wrote to several for means, either to loan or to donate. One of these returned answer that his means was invested in the sanitarium in Ohio, and he could do nothing. Of some ten letters that we sent, only one was responded to. Brother Smouse, of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, sent one hundred dollars.  {15MR 273.1}
[15MR 273.2]          The building of health institutions is in itself well enough, if the matter has been duly considered, if there has been prayerful, thoughtful investigation of the subject, and if those who enter upon the enterprise are discerning, careful, prayerful managers, and they begin to build, fully counting the cost, so they know whether they are able to finish that which they enter upon.  {15MR 273.2}
[15MR 273.3]          Have these brethren in Ohio unselfishly looked to God for light and for wisdom how to invest, as wise stewards, the Lord's money for the upbuilding of His cause and the advancement of His kingdom? Have they decided that the Lord's means was in their hands? Or have they followed their own inclination, and in the place of selling and giving alms, or, in short, investing in the very work that is most essential to open the Word of God to all nations, tongues, and peoples, have they invested their means where they will be sure to get either honor or returns? The Judgment will reveal the matter as it is. Every man's work will be tested and proved by the Lord.  {15MR 273.3}
[15MR 273.4]          If small institutions can be built in some localities, and there are discreet men and women to conduct these institutions, then we will say, Let them be built, if in so doing the cause is not in any way crippled for means to send missionaries to foreign countries, according to the                                           -274-     commission Christ gave His disciples. They were to go to all nations, tongues, and peoples, beginning at Jerusalem, and He gave them the promise, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."  {15MR 273.4}
[15MR 274.1]          I have found it no easy matter to secure means to invest in health institutions. But it has proved a still more difficult matter to secure persons who were qualified to conduct such institutions. It requires thoroughly balanced characters to do this work, not men who have some strong traits of character but who are weak as children in other points.  {15MR 274.1}
[15MR 274.2]          Plenty of physicians can be obtained who ceased to be students when they received their diplomas, who are self-inflated, who feel that they know all that is worth knowing and what they do not know is not worth knowing. But this class are not the ones we want. When a physician enters upon his work as practitioner, the more genuine, practical experience he has, the more fully will he feel his want of knowledge.  {15MR 274.2}
[15MR 274.3]          If self-sufficient, he will read articles written in regard to diseases and how to treat them without nature's aid; he will grasp statements and weave them into his practice, and without deep research, without earnest study, without sifting every statement, he will merely become a mechanical worker. Because he knows so little, he will be ready to experiment upon human lives, and sacrifice not a few.  {15MR 274.3}
[15MR 274.4]         This is murder, actual murder. He did not do this work with evil design, he had no malicious purposes; but life was sacrificed on account of his ignorance, because he was a superficial student, because he had not had that practice that would make him a safe man to be entrusted with human lives. It requires care-taking, deep, earnest taxation of the mind, to carry the burden a physician should carry in learning his trade thoroughly.                                          -275-  {15MR 274.4}
[15MR 275.1]          Every physician who has received a thorough education will be very modest in his claims. It will not do for him to run any risk in experimenting on human life, lest he be guilty of murder and this be written against him in the books of heaven. There should be a careful, competent physician who will deal scarcely ever in drugs, and who will not boast that powerful poisons are far more effective than a smaller quantity carefully taken. It is true, it kills if it does not cure; but drugs never cure. They change the order of difficulties, but never heal them, never remove the cause.  {15MR 275.1}
[15MR 275.2]          We have deeply regretted that there were not a large number of institutions working from the hygienic principles that there are now in existence. Not all of these can be prepared upon a large scale, involving large expense; but the question is, Will they preserve the principles of hygiene, or will they use the easier method of using drugs, to take the place of treating diseases without resorting to drug medication?  {15MR 275.2}
[15MR 275.3]          There could be many hygienic institutions in all parts of our world if there were plenty of means and plenty of persons who had the qualifications to manage such institutions. The physicians who shall be employed should not only have a book knowledge but a practical experience to understand disease and its causes, and ［who］ will feel the necessity, as soon as they are brought into positions of trust, to commence the work of carrying the burden necessary for them to bear, in order to do the most careful, thorough work. They will, if they are not closely connected with God, become careless and venturesome.  {15MR 275.3}
[15MR 275.4]          The first labors of a physician should be to educate the sick and suffering in the very course they should pursue to prevent disease. The greatest good can be done by our trying to enlighten the minds of all we can                                     -276-     obtain access to, as to the best course for them to pursue to prevent sickness and suffering and broken constitutions and premature death. But those who do not care to undertake work that taxes their physical and mental powers will be ready to prescribe drug medication, which lays a foundation in the human organism for a twofold greater evil than that which they claim to have relieved.  {15MR 275.4}
[15MR 276.1]          A physician who has the moral courage to imperil his reputation in enlightening the understanding by plain facts, in showing the nature of disease and how to prevent it, and the dangerous practice of resorting to drugs, will have an uphill business, but he will live and let live. He will not use his powerful drug medication, because of the knowledge he has acquired by studying books. He will, if a reformer, talk plainly in regard to the false appetites and ruinous self-indulgence, in dressing, in eating and drinking, in overtaxing to do a large amount of work in a given time, which has a ruinous influence upon the temper ［and on］ the physical and mental powers.  {15MR 276.1}
[15MR 276.2]          Knowledge is what is needed. Drugs are too often promised to restore health, and the poor sick are so thoroughly drugged with quinine, morphine, or some strong health- and life-destroying medicine, that nature may never make sufficient protest, but give up the struggle; and they may continue their wrong habits with hopeful impunity.  {15MR 276.2}
[15MR 276.3]          Right and correct habits, intelligently and perseveringly practiced, will be removing the cause for disease, and the strong drugs need not be resorted to. Many go on from step to step with their unnatural indulgences, which is bringing in just as unnatural a condition of things as possible.                                       -277-  {15MR 276.3}
[15MR 277.1]          Diseases of every stripe and type have been brought upon human beings by the use of tea and coffee and the narcotics, opium and tobacco. These hurtful indulgences must be given up, not only one, but all; for all are hurtful and ruinous to the physical, mental, and moral powers, and should be discontinued from a health standpoint. The common use of the flesh of dead animals has had a deteriorating influence upon the morals as well as the physical constitution.  {15MR 277.1}
[15MR 277.2]          Ill-health in a variety of forms, if effect could be traced to the cause, would reveal the sure result of flesh eating. The disuse of meat with healthful dishes nicely prepared to take the place of flesh-meats, would place a large number of the sick and suffering ones in a fair way of recovering their health without the use of drugs.  {15MR 277.2}
[15MR 277.3]          But if the physician encourages a meat-eating diet to his invalid patients, then he will make a necessity for the use of drugs. Nature will want some assistance to bring things to their proper condition, which may be found in the simplest remedies, especially in the use of nature's own furnished remedies--pure air, and with a precious knowledge of how to breathe; pure water, with a knowledge of how to apply it; plenty of sunlight in every room in the house, if possible, and with an intelligent knowledge of what advantages are to be gained by its use. All these are powerful in their efficiency, and the patient who has obtained a knowledge of how to eat and dress healthfully, may live for comfort, for peace, for health, and will not be prevailed upon to put to his lips drugs, which, in the place of helping nature, paralyze her powers. If the sick and suffering will do only as well as they know in regard to living out the principles of health reform                                       -278-     perseveringly, then they will in nine cases out of ten recover from their ailments.  {15MR 277.3}
[15MR 278.1]          The feeble and suffering ones must be educated line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, until they will have respect for and live in obedience to the law that God has made to control the human organism. Those who sin against knowledge and light, and resort to the skill of a physician in administering drugs, will be constantly losing their hold on life. The less there is of drug dosing, the more favorable will be their recovery to health. Drugs, in the place of helping nature, are constantly paralyzing her efforts.  {15MR 278.1}
[15MR 278.2]          The health institutions for the sick will be the best places to educate the suffering ones to live in accordance with nature's laws, and cease their health-destroying practices in wrong habits in diet, in dress, that are in accordance with the world's habits and customs, which are not at all after God's order. They are doing a good work to enlighten our world.  {15MR 278.2}
[15MR 278.3]          Drugs always have a tendency to break down and destroy vital forces, and nature becomes so crippled in her efforts that the invalid dies, not because he needed to die, but because nature was outraged. If she had been left alone, she would have put forth her highest efforts to save life and health. Nature wants none of such help as so many claim that they have given her. Lift off the burdens placed upon her, after the customs of the fashion of this age, and you will see in many cases nature will right herself. The use of drugs is not favorable or natural to the laws of life and health. The drug medication gives nature two burdens to bear in the place of one. She has two serious difficulties to overcome in the place of one.                                       -279-  {15MR 278.3}
[15MR 279.1]          There is now positive need even with physicians, reformers in the line of treatment of disease, that greater painstaking effort be made to carry forward and upward the work for themselves, and to interestedly instruct those who look to them for medical skill to ascertain the cause of their infirmities. They should call their attention in a special manner to the laws which God has established, which cannot be violated with impunity. They dwell much on the working of disease, but do not, as a general rule, arouse the attention to the laws which must be sacredly and intelligently obeyed to prevent disease.  {15MR 279.1}
[15MR 279.2]          Especially ［is this true］ if the physician has not been correct in his dietetic practices, if his own appetite has not been restricted to a plain, wholesome diet, in a large measure discarding the use of the flesh of dead animals, ［if］ he loves meat, ［and］ he has educated and cultivated a taste for unhealthful food. His ideas are narrow, and he will as soon educate and discipline the taste and appetite of his patients to love the things that he loves, as to give them the sound principles of health reform. He will prescribe for sick patients flesh-meats, when it is the very worst diet that they can have. It stimulates, but does not give strength.  {15MR 279.2}
[15MR 279.3]          They do not inquire into their ［patients'］ former habits of eating and drinking, and do not take special notice of their erroneous habits which have been for many years laying the foundation of disease. Conscientious physicians should be prepared to enlighten those who are ignorant, and should with wisdom make out their prescriptions, prohibiting those things in their diet which he knows to be erroneous.                                        -280-  {15MR 279.3}
[15MR 280.1]          He should plainly state the things which he regards as detrimental to the laws of health, and leave these suffering ones to work conscientiously to do those things for themselves which they can do and thus place themselves in right relation to the laws of life and health. When from enlightened conscience they do the very best they know how to do to preserve themselves in health, then in faith they may look to the Great Physician, who is a healer of the body as well as of the soul.  {15MR 280.1}
[15MR 280.2]          We are health reformers. Physicians should have wisdom and experience, and be thorough health reformers. Then they will be constantly educating by precept and example their patients from drugs; for they well know that the use of drugs may produce for the time being favorable results, but will implant in the system that which will cause great difficulties hereafter, which they may never recover from during their lifetime. Nature must have a chance to do her work. Obstructions must be removed and opportunity given her to exert her healing forces, which she will surely do if every abuse is removed from her and she has a fair chance.  {15MR 280.2}
[15MR 280.3]          The sick should be educated to have confidence in nature's great blessings which God has provided; and the most effective remedies for disease are pure, soft water; the blessed God-given sunshine coming into rooms of the invalids; living outdoors as much as possible; having healthful exercise; eating and drinking foods that are prepared in the most healthful manner.  {15MR 280.3}
[15MR 280.4]          To resort to the drugging process lays upon nature a most fearful, merciless burden, from which they may never recover. There are many laboring under chronic diseases. They will swallow anything in the line of drugs prescribed by the unbelieving physician, when, if Christians, an intelligent                                        -281-     knowledge that they are indulging in unnatural appetites which explains to them the cause of their suffering, would place themselves in a position to be health reformers. They would change the cause which produces this sure result.  {15MR 280.4}
[15MR 281.1]          There are many, many afflicted in our world with tobacco poison, but the physicians who are summoned to treat their patients under painful afflictions brought upon them by using tobacco using ［do not point out the evils of tobacco. The patients］ are not instructed by these worldly physicians to let these poisons alone, in order that they may recover health; for many of these physicians use these poisons themselves. How can they, then, consistently enlighten the understanding of those who indulge in the poisonous narcotic, tobacco?  {15MR 281.1}
[15MR 281.2]          The physician, if he is not a novice, can trace the effects back to the true cause, but he dares not forbid its use, because he indulges in it himself. Some will in an undecided, halfway manner advise the tobacco users to take less of this narcotic; but they do not say to them, This habit is killing you. They prescribe drugs to cure a disease which is the result of indulging unnatural appetites, and two evils are produced in the place of removing one.  {15MR 281.2}
[15MR 281.3]          Thousands need to be educated patiently, kindly, tenderly but decidedly, that nine-tenths of their complaints are created by their own course of action. The more they introduce drugs into the system, the more certainly do they interfere with the laws of nature and bring about the very difficulties they drug themselves to avoid.                                        -282-  {15MR 281.3}
[15MR 282.1]          Let all who contemplate erecting an institution, carefully consider whether they are to make it an institution conducted upon the principles of health reform, or whether they design to copy the popular institutions all through our land. If an institution for health is conducted upon the principles of health reform, it will require for its management a large amount of faith, a large amount of patience, a large amount of perseverance, a large amount of moral power, such as they have scarcely dreamed of, to make such an institution a success and to pay its own way.  {15MR 282.1}
[15MR 282.2]          The managers will require moral backbone, as well as superior, educated skill. Lectures need to be given in such an institution every day upon some points connected with the customs and habits of the people, of disease and its causes, and the only true course to be taken to prevent disease.  {15MR 282.2}
[15MR 282.3]          All connected with our health institutions as managers and helpers should possess the very best ability, should have abundance of Christian courtesy, should practice universally Christian politeness, should be tender, pitiful, courteous. This is positively essential in order to leave the right impression upon the minds of sick people. While trying to educate them away from the habits and customs of the world, many will be glad to be enlightened, while many who are wedded to their own fashionable, health-destroying indulgences will be offended and make it very unpleasant for those who wish to do them good.  {15MR 282.3}
[15MR 282.4]          Some have not the moral courage to keep right on in the fear of the Lord. There is even among those who have intelligence in regard to the laws of life and health, a constant selfish indulgence in those things which are injurious to both soul and body. There is intemperance in eating and in the                                        -283-     many varieties of food taken at one meal. In the preparation of food there are unhealthful mixtures which ferment in the stomach and cause great distress. And yet these go on, continuing their indulgence, which lays the foundation for numerous difficulties. If these would have self-control, and educate their taste to eat only those things which the abused stomach can and will assimilate, they would save large expense in doctor bills and avoid great sufferings.  {15MR 282.4}
[15MR 283.1]          There are many who spend their money for that which is not bread--for tea, coffee, the large use of flesh-meats. All of these produce their sure results in painful affliction. Many animals have been butchered when their blood was in a high state of fever, apparently boiling with madness. Those who eat of these meats are subject to inflammation and blood-poisoning. Some have distressing spasms, some have great distress of the bowels.  {15MR 283.1}
[15MR 283.2]          It is the work of the physician to educate those who are ignorant in regard to these things. There should be training schools to educate nurses and prepare the minds to sense the danger and to see the importance of bringing in skill and tact in the preparation of foods which shall be substituted for the meat diet. This kind of education will pay in the end. Wisdom should be used not to remove meat all at once from those who have been in the habit of using it, but educate the mind to see the importance of the use of healthful food.  {15MR 283.2}
[15MR 283.3]          We must not go to work in building our institutions until we shall carefully look the ground over and see whether we can complete that which we have in our mind to undertake. There is danger of making rash moves, which will not bear the sanction of heaven, or erecting large buildings, and                                       -284-     binding up a large amount of God's means that is needed at the very time ［when money is required］ in other branches of the work in sustaining our poverty-stricken missions that are directly engaged in the salvation of souls. This means, invested in this important work, may not bring the greatest honor and flattering praise to the one who invests it, but in the heavenly records every dollar is placed to their account as treasures laid up that they will come into possession of when Christ shall come.  {15MR 283.3}
[15MR 284.1]          Let none flatter themselves that it is an easy work to erect and conduct an institution upon health reform principles. It is not an easy matter to run an institution where the sick of all classes shall be treated. Every such institution should have as its managers and helpers the very best talents that the work can produce. Then they will have an educating school and be thoroughly disciplined and fitted, that representatives shall be sent out to any part of the world to impart their knowledge to those who are ignorant and who greatly need it. This drill is to be kept up until men and women are prepared to do the very best kind of work as educators, as well as all the time to be learners themselves, disciplining their powers to obtain increased knowledge, that they may as stewards of God have wisdom and light, ［and］ that they can impart ［to those］ that they are connected with in any branch of the work.  {15MR 284.1}
[15MR 284.2]          In all our institutions there are many who are deficient in knowledge, who might be fitted to do a much better work if they had made the best use of the opportunities and privileges which God has given them. These will boast of their knowledge, when they are very ignorant of the things which they ought to know. If they knew themselves better, they would have a sense                                        -285-     of their inefficiency. They would ［not try to］ grasp the higher rounds of the ladder, without climbing with painstaking efforts round after round to reach this elevation. It is much easier to boast than to execute. In these institutions we have it ［illegible corrections］ a most puzzling question how to keep managers and helpers in harmonious working order.  {15MR 284.2}
[15MR 285.1]          The very best kind of material is needed for the upbuilding of institutions for the sick. We have had an experience from the first establishment of the institution in the city of Battle Creek, and in the institution at St. Helena, and we feel compelled to say that it has cost much time and a great amount of perplexity, and quite an amount of money, to get these institutions in working order. There have been counsels and painful reproofs given, ［and］ most earnest entreaties and appeals made. One set of workmen ［was］ discharged because inefficient, and others have been placed in their place. Step by step a little has been gained here and there.  {15MR 285.1}
[15MR 285.2]          There has been much said in order to keep out licentious practices and improper familiarity between men and women. This had to be met and reproved, and constantly guarded against, and the ones that are corrected become angry, in the place of reforming; they try to work their revenge upon the faithful workers in the institution. My own soul has been weighed down with burdens that are inexpressible as I have tried in the fear of God to do my duty to all parties and to the institution.--Manuscript 22, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. March 12, 1986. Entire Document.  {15MR 285.2}
[15MR 286.1]      MR No. 1179 - The Evil of Rebellion         (Written May 14, 1897, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., to "Dear Brother and Sister ［G. B.］ Starr.)  {15MR 286.1}
[15MR 286.2]          We were glad to receive your letter, but sorry, very sorry, that the rebellious element is still active in the service of the first leader of all rebellions. And he will keep them in his service. I have been carrying heavy burdens of responsibility, one thing following upon the heels of another, until I am very weary. I have frequently been unable to sleep, and am often writing at the hours of twelve p.m. and one a.m., with pen in hand working off the burden that lies heavily upon my soul. But I feel the greatest weight when I think of these men who have had great light and great opportunities and yet have turned from the light to give heed unto fables. My prayer to God has not ceased in their behalf. Yes, I tell it all to the Lord, and I do not cease to beseech the Father in the name of His Son Jesus Christ that He will break the infatuation that is upon these souls, and let them see who is their leader.  {15MR 286.2}
[15MR 286.3]          For about six weeks I have been exhausted. I have not attended meetings at all. This work of responsibility that I carry alone is very severe on me. Yet thus it has been ever since the camp meeting at Adelaide, one burden following another. You are aware that in Melbourne they needed                                       -287-     special help. Well, that burden I carried for a long time until Brethren Miller and Woods again united with the office. Then, on coming home, we found that an element was at work here in the influence of Brother Shannan and wife. They had done all they possibly could not only in Cooranbong but in other places, to disparage the work done.  {15MR 286.3}
[15MR 287.1]          Brother Lawrence united with Brother Shannan to complain, and to use his aftersight rather than his foresight. He revealed himself as the most selfish, penurious, money-loving man that I have ever had any knowledge of. We could do nothing with them. What Brother Lawrence would confess one day he would take back the next. This influence was carried to Africa by Brother Shannan, and Hardy united with Shannan to make everything at Cooranbong appear as black as night. I have written hundreds of pages to set forth the truth as it is.  {15MR 287.1}
[15MR 287.2]          Then came the apostasy in Adelaide. I cared not for anything they might say against me, as far as myself was concerned; but I cared for the flock of God, whom they were feeding with falsehood and leading in strange paths. And I cared for their own souls. At the family altar I prayed for them and for the poor souls deceived by them. I prayed for them in the silent watches of the night. I kept these matters before the Lord.  {15MR 287.2}
[15MR 287.3]          Thus one perplexity after another kept coming in until I am completely exhausted with heart trouble. It seemed sometimes that I should not recover. For several days I have not been able to sit up much, and have been so weak that I could not endure that sound of the human voice. But the day before yesterday I was beginning to feel a little stronger, and today ［I am］ still better. I am up very early, for I have not slept past two                                       -288-     o'clock for many mornings in succession. But I am in the hands of the Lord. I have tried to think of a place somewhere where for some weeks I could be free from perplexity and anxiety, but I do not know where that place can be. But the Lord sees, the Lord knows, and He can help; He can carry this burden which presses me so heavily. The greatest difficulty, the very weightiest burden, is the thought of the souls who have been tempted and are being rejoiced over by the synagogue of Satan.  {15MR 287.3}
[15MR 288.1]          We are nearing the close of this earth's history. The Lord is soon to come. Must we give up these souls to be led and controlled by Satan? Must we leave them to perish in their sins? Oh, the value of the human soul! They have cost Jesus Christ so much! And if I feel so sad over the losing of one soul, how must Jesus Christ be grieved. He gave His life for them, and one soul is of more value with God than the wealth of the whole world.  {15MR 288.1}
[15MR 288.2]          This morning I designed to attend the early morning meeting for the first time, but I dare not. I find I am not strong enough to expend my vitality unless I am required to do this. Brother Haskell has been taking up the subject of the sanctuary. I so much wish that you could be present to hear him. All who hear him say that he is familiar with the subject, and understands it, proving every idea and statement made from the Scriptures. They all were very much gratified to hear him, and say that he goes far deeper in his understanding of Bible subjects than anyone they have heard.  {15MR 288.2}
[15MR 288.3]          But we will not make comparisons. The Lord is good, and when I see the old burden bearers who have not withheld themselves from the Lord and from denial of self, but who have given themselves to serve Him with heart and pen and voice and means, I know that the Lord will certainly use these old                                        -289-     standard bearers if they will cling fast to Him. The old and white-haired veterans reveal the truth of the sayings of David, "O God, Thou has taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared Thy wondrous works" ［Psalms 71:17］. He ［Brother Haskell］ seems to feel that the inspiration of his early zeal is not extinct. Though he is old and gray haired, he intreats that the Lord will not forsake him, but will remain with him still to bear his testimony to the present generation.  {15MR 288.3}
[15MR 289.1]          Young men are needed in the work--those who will undertake the work interestedly, and will carry it forward zealously and strongly. But the Lord is, and ever will be, with the old, steadfast leaders who have held fast to the truth in times of peril. When the foundation of the faith of the younger men seems to be swept away and their houses falling, the testimony, like that of Caleb, will be heard from the old warriors, "Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it" ［Numbers 13:30］. Then the voice of unbelief was heard. "We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we" ［verse 31］. One word of unbelief prepares the way for more. Satan does not easily let alone any man whom he can tempt to dishonor God by his unbelief.  {15MR 289.1}
[15MR 289.2]         "And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants; and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight" ［verses 32, 33］.                                       -290-  {15MR 289.2}
[15MR 290.1]         What effect did this report upon the congregation? "And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron; and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would God we had died in this wilderness. And wherefore hath the Lord brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? Were it not better for us to return into Egypt? And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt" ［Numbers 14:1-4］. Let all read carefully the fourteenth chapter of Numbers, and let them understand that men can make false reports as did these who had been sent on an errand which concerned the movements of more than a million people.  {15MR 290.1}
[15MR 290.2]          "And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes: and they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land. If the Lord delight in us, then He will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not. But all the congregation bade stone them with stones" ［verses 6-10］.  {15MR 290.2}
[15MR 290.3]         Those who bore the discouraging report and brought discouragement to the whole camp of Israel, when opposed because of their unfaithful witness, served the satanic powers in complete rebellion. And they carried the disappointed congregation with them, in that they believed their interpretation                                          -291-     of the land. The congregation took the wrong side, and, inspired by satanic agencies, they cried out against the faithful spies, and bade them stone Joshua and Caleb who dared to bear the truthful representation in regard to the land.  {15MR 290.3}
[15MR 291.1]          But there is always a defense provided for those who have borne witness for the truth. What was it that saved the lives of Joshua and Caleb? "And the glory of the Lord appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel. And the Lord said unto Moses, How long will this people provoke Me? and how long will it be ere they believe Me, for all the signs which I have shewed among them? I will smite them with the pestilence, and disinherit them, and will make of thee a greater nation and mightier than they" ［verses 10-12］.  {15MR 291.1}
[15MR 291.2]         We have here a positive evidence that the anger of the Lord is awakened against the rebellious people--those who had been blessed with great light and precious opportunities to know the will of God, which was communicated to them by Christ Himself, their invisible Leader, enshrouded in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. God had been their defense against the vast army of Pharaoh; He had wrought for them, providing them food when hungry; He had quieted their murmurings by giving them springs of cool water flowing from the Rock. He had manifested to them His glory, and yet when Satan tempted them, they believed all the suggestions and representations he put into their minds against Moses and Aaron, against Joshua and Caleb. The Lord had worked wondrously for them, yet they were ever ready to turn away from them and follow the suggestions of Satan. But they were passing the boundary of God's forbearance and patience. He declared, "I                                          -292-     will smite them with the pestilence, and disinherit them, and will make of thee a greater nation and mightier then they."  {15MR 291.2}
[15MR 292.1]          ［Verses 13-19, quoted.］        O Moses, thou man of mighty faith, privileged to plead in behalf of rebellious Israel in such wise and understanding words! Thou wouldest not receive inducing promises even from God, that He should let Israel alone to be destroyed, and His name be dishonored among the heathen nations. The promise of great honor Moses would not accept. And what saith the Lord? ［Verses 20-24, quoted.］  {15MR 292.1}
[15MR 292.2]         And what about the men who had caused the Israelites to murmur? ［Verses 26-34, quoted.］  {15MR 292.2}
[15MR 292.3]         The Lord promised the children of Israel: "Ye shall see the altering of my purpose" ［Numbers 14:34］. Thus we see that the Lord's promises are upon condition of obedience. He says, "Ye shall do My judgments, and keep Mine ordinances, to walk therein; I am the Lord your God. Ye shall therefore keep My statutes, and My judgments; which if a man do, he shall live in them: I am the Lord" ［Leviticus 18:4, 5］. Read the first chapter of Deuteronomy carefully, and see why the Lord refused to bring the adults of the army that left Egypt into the promised land. Also Deuteronomy 28.  {15MR 292.3}
[15MR 292.4]         ［Numbers 32:6-15, quoted.］        The Lord God is a jealous God, yet He bears long with the sins and transgressions of His people in this generation. If the people of God had walked in His counsel, the work of God would have advanced, the messages of truth would have been borne to all people that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Had the people of God believed Him and been doers of His word,                                          -293-     had they kept His commandments, the angel would not have come flying through heaven with the message to the four angels that were to let loose the winds that they should blow upon the earth crying, Hold, hold the four winds that they blow not upon the earth until I have sealed the servants of God in their foreheads. But because the people are disobedient, unthankful, unholy, as were ancient Israel, time is prolonged that all may hear the last message of mercy proclaimed with a loud voice. The Lord's work has been hindered, the sealing time delayed. Many have not heard the truth. But the Lord will give them a chance to hear and be converted, and the great work of God will go forward.--Letter 106, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. March 12, 1986. Entire Letter.  {15MR 292.4}
[15MR 294.1]       MR No. 1180 - Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth         (Written January 9, 1893, from George's Terrace, St. Kilda Road, Melbourne, NSW, to Elder William Ings.)  {15MR 294.1}
[15MR 294.2]          This afternoon I had a long conversation with Brother Foster, a member of the Prahran church, who is in perplexity and trial. He is a tailor by trade, and is a first-class workman. Before accepting the truth he had a position that commanded $30 a week. When he began to keep the Sabbath, he was permitted to retain his position, losing only the day's wages for the Sabbath. He is a man of good address, and has good ability to teach the truth. He left his position and went into the field as a laborer, but was sent alone into a hard field, and became discouraged and confused, and almost fell under the delusive power of Satan.  {15MR 294.2}
[15MR 294.3]          At the conference one year ago he had a conversation with me. He became free; the meeting did him good. He has since moved to Melbourne, and works at his trade and leads the meetings in Prahran. But in the present depression of business he is in close circumstances; and being in poor health, with a large family, he has become much discouraged, and in this state of mind Satan has pressed temptation and darkness upon him. For weeks he has been in sore trial, and today he came to tell me his troubles.  {15MR 294.3}
[15MR 294.4]          He says he knew so little of the testimonies he did not understand the relation they sustained to the cause. Some time since while he was in perplexity asking the Lord for light, he had a very striking dream. He saw Sister White in a boat riding on the billows, which were sending the spray                                          -295-     like light in every direction. It came into the room where he was with many others. He moved to get beyond its reach, when a hand stretched out to him ［and］ gave him a paper. The paper was on fire. ［A voice said:］ "Read quickly."  {15MR 294.4}
[15MR 295.1]         He put out the fire, and opened the paper. There was a testimony, and a key lying upon the testimony. The interpretation came to his mind with great force: the key to the testimonies is the testimonies themselves. He awoke with the blessing of God upon him. Then he prayed, "Lord, direct me to the testimony I should read, to help my case." He took up Testimony 31, and opened at the article, "The Testimonies Rejected." He read it through with intense interest and was deeply impressed that the testimonies were from God.  {15MR 295.1}
[15MR 295.2]          After this he saw in the Review the articles of Brother A. T. Jones in regard to the image of the beast, and then the one from Elder Smith presenting the opposite view. He was perplexed and troubled. He had received much light and comfort in reading articles from Brethren Jones and Waggoner; but here was one of the old laborers, one who had written many of our standard books, and whom we had believed to be taught of God, who seemed to be in conflict with Brother Jones.  {15MR 295.2}
[15MR 295.3]          What could all this mean? Was Brother Jones in the wrong? Was Brother Smith in error? Which was right? He became confused. When the important laborers in the cause of God take opposite positions in the same paper, whom can we depend on? Who can we believe has the true position?                                         -296-  {15MR 295.3}
[15MR 296.1]          Brother Foster was in such perplexity that he sent word by letter that he could not lead in the meetings. Since the beginning of the week of prayer, temptations were pressed so strongly upon him that he has received no benefit.  {15MR 296.1}
[15MR 296.2]          These differences among our leading men have absorbed all his thoughts, and he is much distressed over the matter. I told him that I expected that others who should read these articles would have the same experience. These differences should not have been made public, for some who were weak in the faith would be caused to stumble, and as the result might lose their souls. I felt keen regret and deep sorrow of heart, for I know that the Lord was displeased.  {15MR 296.2}
[15MR 296.3]          But I said, "Brother Foster, you have the Bible. Search its pages with a prayerful heart; your Redeemer has promised that the Holy Spirit shall lead you into all truth. You have an Instructor that is full of wisdom, One who never errs. I charge you before God to cease worrying, receive the precious rays of light that come to you. Feast upon the truth as it is in Jesus, walk in the light while you have the light, and more light will shine upon you from the Source of all light.  {15MR 296.3}
[15MR 296.4]          Do not suffer your mind to dwell upon the differences you think you discern. If our leading brethren are so unwise as to allow their conflicting views to appear in the paper published to go to the world; if they present these differences before the large gatherings that assemble to worship God in the tabernacle or elsewhere, they are doing the very things the Lord Jesus told them not to do, and going directly contrary to the light given them through the testimonies.                                        -297-  {15MR 296.4}
[15MR 297.1]          Now, brethren, the zeal that leads to this kind of work is not inspired of God; Christ never prompts any man to work against Christ. He will not lead us to counteract His own instruction, or to act contrary to the spirit of the prayer He offered for His disciples just before He left them.  {15MR 297.1}
[15MR 297.2]          He knew they would be exposed to trials from the opposition of the world, and He said: "While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Thy name; those that Thou gavest Me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to Thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil" ［John 17:12-15］.  {15MR 297.2}
[15MR 297.3]          Our work is clearly aggressive. Our warfare is to be directed against error and sin, not against one another. God requires us to be a strength to one another, to heal, not to destroy. We are to be constantly receiving light; and we are not to spurn the message nor the messengers by whom God shall send light to His people.  {15MR 297.3}
[15MR 297.4]          If before publishing Elder Jones's article concerning the image of the beast, Elder Smith had conferred with him, plainly stating that his own view differed from that of Brother Jones, and, that if the article appeared in the Review, he himself must present the opposite position, then the matter would appear in a more favorable light than it now does.                                          -298-  {15MR 297.4}
[15MR 298.1]          But the course pursued in this case was the same as that taken at Minneapolis. Those who opposed Brethren Jones and Waggoner manifested no disposition to meet them like brethren, and with the Bible in hand consider prayerfully and in a Christlike spirit the points of difference. This is the only course that would meet the approval of God, and His rebuke was upon those who would not do this at Minneapolis.  {15MR 298.1}
[15MR 298.2]          Yet this blind warfare is continued. Men of the same faith, in the same city, turn their weapons against each other. It is an astonishment to the heavenly universe. I feel deeply grieved, and if these things are a grief to me, how do they appear to Jesus, who suffered untold agony upon the cross to redeem men from the power of Satan and make them one in Christ? "All ye are brethren." What can lead brethren to present before the world opposite opinions without first coming together in love and comparing views to see if they cannot come into harmony? Will my brethren tell me what spirit is moving them to action?  {15MR 298.2}
[15MR 298.3]          We know that Brother Jones has been giving the message for this time--meat in due season for the starving flock of God. Those who do not allow prejudice to bar the heart against the heaven-sent message, cannot but feel the spirit and force of the truth. Brother Jones has borne the message from church to church and from State to State; and light and freedom and the outpouring of the Spirit of God have attended the word, as events of a most startling nature in the fulfilment of prophecy show that the great crisis is rapidly approaching.  {15MR 298.3}
[15MR 298.4]          Brother Jones seeks to arouse the professed people of God from their death-like slumber, to see the importance of giving the warning to the                                         -299-     world. But he advances some ideas with which not all agree, and instantly Brother Gage is aroused; he harnesses for the battle, and before the congregation in the tabernacle he takes his position in opposition to Brother Jones. Was this in the order of God? Did the Spirit of the Lord go from Brother Jones and inspire Brother Gage to do this work? Suppose that Brother Jones's statement concerning the formation of the image was premature; did the case demand such demonstrations? I answer No, no; not if God has ever spoken by me.  {15MR 298.4}
[15MR 299.1]          The Bible rules must be strictly followed. The matter concerning which a difference of opinion prevails should be calmly considered, with much prayer, with hearts yearning for unity, and with perfect love for one another's souls. Examine every point as if you could see the whole heavenly universe looking upon you. If there is a positive evidence that one of the brethren is in error, try to convince him from the Word of God. If success should not crown your efforts, even then the world has no business with this matter, for it would only dishonor the God of truth and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent.  {15MR 299.1}
[15MR 299.2]          I have received letters from different points telling the sad, discouraging results of these things. We have opposition enough from our foes, and we shall have conflicts fierce and strong; let us not now cause Satan to glory because of the pitched battles within our own ranks. The unity for which our Saviour prayed should be brought into our practical life. Peace, the peace of Christ, inspired by truth and sustained by righteousness, we must each cultivate.                                          -300-  {15MR 299.2}
[15MR 300.1]          God so loved the world that He manifested His love by giving His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Jesus said: "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another" ［John 13:34, 35］. "This is My commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you" ［John 15:12］. Let your zeal be manifest, not in exposing your variances but in cultivating the precious plant of love, just as Jesus has told us to do.  {15MR 300.1}
[15MR 300.2]          ［1 John 3:16, 18, 19, 23; 4:8-13, 20, 21, quoted.］        I have quoted only a few passages, but the Bible abounds in just such lessons. If it is not possible to love God unless we love our brother, the case will certainly go against us in the courts of heaven if we do not cherish Christlike love for one another. The Word is very explicit.  {15MR 300.2}
[15MR 300.3]         I am pained beyond measure when I see how little love is cherished and manifested among brethren. How long shall Satan use his arguments against us and weaken our influence by revealing to others how little love and deference and respect are shown for one another? Is it not time we were doers of the Word, and not hearers only? Shall we not closely examine our own souls, and see whether we are in the possession of the love of God?  {15MR 300.3}
[15MR 300.4]          Jesus came in the likeness of sinful flesh, by a pure and holy life to condemn sin in the flesh. He came to our world to represent the character of God, and it is our work to represent the character of Christ. If we have lost His love out of our hearts, our work is to seek the Lord, that our hearts may be renewed by His Holy Spirit.                                     -301-  {15MR 300.4}
[15MR 301.1]          "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. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?" ［1 Corinthians 1:10-13］.  {15MR 301.1}
[15MR 301.2]          The cause of division or discord in the church is separation from Christ. The secret of unity is union with Christ. Christ is the great Center. We shall approach one another just in proportion as we approach the Center. United with Christ, we shall surely be united with our brethren in the faith.  {15MR 301.2}
[15MR 301.3]          To be a Christian means a great deal more than is supposed. A Christian is Christlike. Membership in the church does not make us Christians. Has the light from Christ penetrated the heart? Are justice and purity and truth abiding in the soul temple? We may know; for the fruits will appear. ［Galatians 5:22-26; 6:1-3, quoted.］ This is not a time for brother to cherish prejudice against brother. Put not into our enemies' hands anything that bears the least suggestion of differences among us, even in opinion.  {15MR 301.3}
[15MR 301.4]         The conference at Minneapolis was the golden opportunity for all present to humble the heart before God and to welcome Jesus as the great Instructor, but the stand taken by some at that meeting proved their ruin. They have never seen clearly since, and they never will, for they persistently cherish the spirit that prevailed there, a wicked, criticizing,                                      -302-     denunciatory spirit. Yet since that meeting, abundant light and evidence has been graciously given, that all might understand what is truth.  {15MR 301.4}
[15MR 302.1]          Those who were then deceived might since have come to the light. They might rejoice in the truth as it is in Jesus, were it not for the pride of their own rebellious hearts. They will be asked in the judgment, "Who required this at your hand, to rise up against the message and the messengers I sent to My people with light, with grace and power? Why have you lifted up your souls against God? Why did you block the way with your own perverse spirit? And afterward when evidence was piled upon evidence, why did you not humble your hearts before God, and repent of your rejection of the message of mercy He sent you?" The Lord has not inspired these brethren to resist the truth. He designed that they should be baptized with the Holy Spirit, and be living channels of light to communicate the light to our world, in clear, bright rays.  {15MR 302.1}
[15MR 302.2]          "God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth" ［2 Thessalonians 2:13］. Here, according to the appointment of God, are the two agencies in man's salvation --the divine influence and a strong, living, working faith, a faith that receives the truth. God requires no man to cast aside his reason, and yield to the control of blind credulity. But we are to search the Scriptures in the spirit of learners.  {15MR 302.2}
[15MR 302.3]          In the meekness of Christ canvass every point of difference. Search for the truth as for hidden treasures. It will not do to ignore these questions of vital interest. Human assertions are as valueless as straw. Many will miss the path to heaven because they risk their faith upon men. They                                         -303-     resist the message of mercy because someone in whom they have confidence is indifferent to it. But the soul is of too great value to rest its faith on man. No one but Christ can ransom the soul.  {15MR 302.3}
[15MR 303.1]          We have the Word of God, and this alone can we trust unwaveringly. Let brethren seek God together. Let them fall upon the Rock and be broken. "We are laborers together with God." We must understand the obligations imposed upon us by this cooperation, or we shall never stand approved in the judgment. "Laborers together with God" means fellow laborers with those of our own fallen race, but cooperating with divine agencies. It is the work of salvation to accomplish this union of the human with the divine.  {15MR 303.1}
[15MR 303.2]          The time of peril is now upon us. It can no longer be spoken of as in the future. And the power of every mind, sanctified to the Master's work, is to be employed, not to hedge up the way before the messages God sends to His people, but to labor unitedly in preparing a people to stand in the great day of God. It is not the inspiration from heaven that leads one to be suspicious, watching for a chance and greedily seizing upon it to prove that those brethren who differ from us in some interpretation of Scripture are not sound in the faith.  {15MR 303.2}
[15MR 303.3]          There is danger that this course of action will produce the very result which they are seeking to avoid, and to a great degree the guilt will rest upon those who are watching for evil. Had they been free from prejudice, and walking in humility, they would have been ready to receive light from whatever source; recognizing the Spirit of God and the grace of Christ, they would be indeed channels of light, and their long experience would make them safe counselors, men of sound judgment.                                        -304-  {15MR 303.3}
[15MR 304.1]          God would have His people love one another and help one another, thus strengthening every good work. We should counsel with one another, the old, experienced laborers with those whom God shall raise up to advance His work as we approach the great consummation. But if such men as Elder Smith, Elder Van Horn, and Elder Butler shall stand aloof, not blending with the elements God sees essential to carry forward the work in these perilous times, they will be left behind. God will complete His work in righteousness. These brethren have had every opportunity to stand in the ranks that are pressing on to victory, but if they refuse, the work will advance without them.  {15MR 304.1}
[15MR 304.2]          God will send by whom He will; His message will not return unto Him void, but will accomplish that whereunto it is sent. And if they refuse the message, the men whom God designed should hold the same relation to the younger workers as did Moses to Joshua, will fail of doing the work the Lord designed they should do. They will be a hindrance in the place of a blessing. The work will go forward; but these brethren, who might have received the richest blessings, will meet with eternal loss, for though they should repent and be saved at last, they can never regain that which they have lost through their wrong course of action. They might have been God's instruments to carry the work forward with power; but their influence was exerted to counteract the Lord's message, to make the work appear questionable. Every jot and tittle of this will have to be repented of.  {15MR 304.2}
[15MR 304.3]          The opposition in our own ranks has imposed upon the Lord's messengers a laborious and soul-trying task; for they have had to meet difficulties and obstacles which need not have existed. While this labor had to be performed                                      -305-     among our own people to make them willing that God should work in the day of His power, the light of the glory of God has not been shining in clear, concentrated rays to our world. Thousands who are now in the darkness of error might have been added to our numbers.  {15MR 304.3}
[15MR 305.1]          All the time and thought and labor required to counteract the influence of our brethren who oppose the message has been just so much taken from the work of warning the world of the swift coming judgments of God. The Spirit of God has been present in power among His people, but it could not be bestowed upon them, because they did not open their hearts to receive it.  {15MR 305.1}
[15MR 305.2]          It is not the opposition of the world that we have to fear, but it is the elements that work among ourselves that have hindered the message. The efficiency of the movements for extending the truth depends upon the harmonious action of those who profess to believe it. Love and confidence constitute a moral force that would have united our churches, and insured harmony of action; but coldness and distrust have brought disunion that has shorn us of our strength.  {15MR 305.2}
[15MR 305.3]          The Lord designed that the messages of warning and instruction given through the Spirit to His people should go everywhere. But the influence that grew out of the resistance of light and truth at Minneapolis tended to make of no effect the light God had given to His people through the Testimonies. Great Controversy, vol. 4, has not had the circulation it should have had, because some of those who occupy responsible positions were leavened with the spirit that prevailed at Minneapolis, a spirit that clouded the discernment of the people of God.  {15MR 305.3}
[15MR 305.4]          The work of opponents to the truth has been steadily advancing while we have been compelled to devote our energies in a great degree to counteracting                                      -306-     the work of the enemy through those who were in our own ranks. The dullness of some and the opposition of others have confined our strength and means largely among those who knew the truth but did not practice its principles. If every soldier of Christ had done his duty, if every watchman on the walls of Zion had given the trumpet a certain sound, the world might ere this have heard the message of warning. But the work is years behind. What account will be rendered to God for thus retarding the work?  {15MR 305.4}
[15MR 306.1]          While the angels were holding the four winds that they should not blow, giving opportunity for everyone who had light to let it shine to the world, there have been influences at work among us to cry peace and safety. Many did not understand that we had not time or strength or influence to be lost through dilatory action. While men slept, Satan has been steadily stealing a march upon us, working up the advantages given him to have things after his own order.  {15MR 306.1}
[15MR 306.2]          The Lord has revealed to us that the Laodicean message applies to the church at this time, and yet how few make a practical application of it to themselves. God has wrought for us; we have no complaint to make of heaven, for the richest blessings have been proffered us, but our people have been very reluctant to accept them. Those who have been so stubborn and rebellious that they would not humble themselves to receive the light God sent in mercy to their souls, became so destitute of the Holy Spirit that the Lord could not use them. Unless they are converted these men will never enter the mansions of the blest.  {15MR 306.2}
[15MR 306.3]          Some have been preaching the Word whose labors are tainted with impurity and licentiousness. They have done far more harm than good. Unless                                        -307-     they shall turn from their evil ways, they will perish with the wicked. Others have carried the truth in a very indifferent manner; they have had no real burden of the work; they have gone backward rather than forward. It is high time for these to retrace their steps, for they have lost their first love. The Lord's injunction to them is, "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."  {15MR 306.3}
[15MR 307.1]          A great work is before us. There are a few who carry the heavy burden of responsibility. They feel that God has committed to our American churches a solemn trust in the messages of truth to be given to the world. From all nations the Macedonian cry is heard, "Come over and help us." God in His providence has opened fields before us, and if the human agents cooperate with the divine agencies, many souls may be made partakers of a pure and saving faith. For years the appeal has been made, but the Lord's professed people have been sleeping over their allotted work, and it remains almost untouched.  {15MR 307.1}
[15MR 307.2]          God has sent message after message to arouse our churches to do something, and to do it now. But to the call of God, "Whom shall I send?" there have been few voices to respond, "Here am I, send me." Through this neglect, many souls will lose the opportunity the Lord desired to give them.  {15MR 307.2}
[15MR 307.3]          ［Luke 14:16-24, quoted.］        When the message of God is brought to them, many will thus excuse themselves. But the work must be pressed wherever there is an opening. Men and money are needed to carry it forward. Still there is opportunity for us to share the Saviour's self-denial and sacrifice for the salvation of souls.                                        -308-  {15MR 307.3}
[15MR 308.1]          The necessities of the work now demand a far greater outlay than ever before. The Lord calls upon His people to make every effort to curtail their expenses. Again I plead that instead of spending money for pictures of yourselves and your friends, you should turn it into another channel. Let the money that has been devoted to the gratification of self flow into the Lord's treasury to sustain those who are working to save perishing souls. Let those who have houses and lands give heed to the message, "Sell that ye have, and give alms." "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse; that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it" ［Malachi 3:10］.  {15MR 308.1}
[15MR 308.2]          The Lord is soon to come. We must work while the day lasts; for the night is coming, in which no man can work. Oh, many, many have lost the spirit of self-denial and sacrifice. They have been burying their money in temporal possessions. There are men whom God has blessed, whom He is testing to see what response they will make to His benefits. They have withheld their tithes and offerings until their debt to the Lord God of hosts has become so great that they grow pale at the thought of rendering unto the Lord His own--a just tithe. Make haste, brethren, you have now ［the］ opportunity to be honest with God; delay not. For your soul's sake, no longer rob God in tithes and offerings.  {15MR 308.2}
[15MR 308.3]          The Lord calls for every talent of means and ability to be put to use. When the reproach of indolence and slothfulness shall have been wiped away from the church, the Spirit of the Lord will be graciously manifested;                                       -309-     divine power will combine with human effort, the church will see the providential interpositions of the Lord God of hosts, the light of truth will be diffused, the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. As in the apostles' time, many souls will turn unto the Lord. The earth will be lightened with the glory of the angel from heaven.  {15MR 308.3}
[15MR 309.1]          If the ［people of the］ world are to be convinced of sin as transgressors of God's law, the agency must be the Holy Spirit working through human instrumentalities. The church needs now to shake off her death-like slumber, for the Lord is waiting to bless His people who will recognize His blessing when it comes, and diffuse it in clear, strong rays of light.  {15MR 309.1}
[15MR 309.2]          "Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean. . . . And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes" ［Ezekiel 36:25, 27］. If the wilderness of the church is to become as a fruitful field, and the fruitful field to be as a forest, it is through the Holy Spirit of God poured out upon His people.  {15MR 309.2}
[15MR 309.3]          The heavenly agencies have long been waiting for the human agents, the members of the church, to cooperate 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 agent of divine power.  {15MR 309.3}
[15MR 309.4]          At the same time there will be a power stirring everything from beneath. The working of evil angels will be manifest in deceptions, delusions, in calamities, and in casualties and crimes of no ordinary character. While God employs the angels of mercy to work through His human agents, Satan sets his agencies in operation, laying under tribute all the powers that submit to his control.                                       -310-  {15MR 309.4}
[15MR 310.1]          There will be lords many and gods many. The cry will be heard, "Lo, here is Christ," and "Lo, He is there." The deep plotting of Satan will reveal its working everywhere for the purpose of distracting attention from present duty. The appearance of a false Christ will awaken delusive hopes in the minds of those who allow themselves to be deceived. The church members that are awake will rise to the emergency, manifesting greater diligence as iniquity abounds.  {15MR 310.1}
[15MR 310.2]          The very manifestations of satanic power are to be presented in their true light before the people. There will be signs and wonders in the world of nature. The powers of earth and heaven ［GC DAILY BULLETIN, FEB. 28, 1893, SAYS, "HELL."］ will manifest a terrifying, destructive activity. But the eye of faith will discern in all these manifestations harbingers of the grand and awful future, and the triumphs that will surely come to God's people.  {15MR 310.2}
[15MR 310.3]         Let all who believe the truth for this time put away their differences; put away envy, evil speaking, and evil thinking. Press together, press together. "Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently."  {15MR 310.3}
[15MR 310.4]          Work, oh, work, keeping eternity in view. Bear in mind that every power must be sanctified. In yourselves you are powerless to do anything good. Christ declares, "Without Me ye can do nothing." Becoming partakers of the divine nature, you can do all things. Through Christ you can have power with God and with men.                                           -311-  {15MR 310.4}
[15MR 311.1]          A great work is to be done. Let the prayer go forth from unfeigned lips, "God be merciful unto us and bless us; and cause His face to shine upon us; that Thy way may be known upon the earth, Thy saving health among all nations." Our God is waiting to be gracious. "And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent." Will the church give to the world the light of the knowledge of Jesus Christ? Shall the light shine forth to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples?  {15MR 311.1}
[15MR 311.2]          "There is no difference between the Jew and the Greek; for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" ［Romans 10:12-15］. "For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth." ［Acts 13:47］.  {15MR 311.2}
[15MR 311.3]          "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest" ［Matthew 9:36-38］. Our work is plainly laid down in the Word of God. Christian is to be united to Christian, church to church, the human instrumentality cooperating with the divine, every agency to be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all to be combined in giving to the world the good tidings of the grace of God.-- Letter 77, 1893.     Ellen G. White Estate March 12, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {15MR 311.3}
[15MR 312.1]       MR No. 1181 - Counsel Relating to the Work in Los Angeles and the Paradise Valley Sanitarium         (Written February 20, 1905, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to "Dear Brethren Palmer and Ballenger.")  {15MR 312.1}
[15MR 312.2]          We are well pleased with the reports that Brother Ballenger has sent us of the work of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. What we see being accomplished there is a fulfillment of what I have been instructed we might expect. For this we thank the Lord and take courage for the future, believing that the Lord will bless and guide.  {15MR 312.2}
[15MR 312.3]         The patronage you are receiving, even before you are fully prepared to accommodate patients, has exceeded my expectations. The Lord has been good to us, and we must ever bear in mind that this sanitarium is to be made a means of communicating truth to those who know it not.  {15MR 312.3}
[15MR 312.4]          Treatment rooms should be fitted up soon. Let them be, as was suggested when we were there, outside the main building. Were they inside the sanitarium, the steam from them would make an unhealthful atmosphere, which would pervade the rooms of the patients. Let us take every precaution to make everything connected with the Paradise Valley Sanitarium healthful and wholesome.  {15MR 312.4}
[15MR 312.5]          We are made sad as we see in many places so much left undone that should be done. But the Lord will use in the accomplishment of His work means that we do not now see. He will raise up from among the common people, men and women to do His work, even as of old He called fishermen to                                        -313-     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. Now is the time for us to awake and do what we can.  {15MR 312.5}
[15MR 313.1]          I have received a letter from Brother Burrill of Canada, in which he speaks of the Sunday question that is soon to be met there. He says that they especially need Brother Robinson to help them in meeting this issue. He is a native-born Canadian, and can be a great help to them at this time.  {15MR 313.1}
[15MR 313.2]          Brother Burrill has written to me because he understood that I had encouraged Brother Robinson to come to San Diego. At first I could remember nothing in regard to the matter. But after I received Brother Ballenger's letter stating that Brother Robinson was expected in San Diego soon to act as business manager of the Sanitarium, I remember that Brother Robinson was one whose name had been mentioned in some of our councils. I think he was presented as one who was not well, and who needed a change of climate. I asked if he was qualified to act as manager. When it was stated that he seemed to have the qualifications necessary for the place, I think I said, "Then by all means let him come." But I did not present this as light that had been given me by the Lord. It was merely my personal judgment, formed from your presentation of the case.  {15MR 313.2}
[15MR 313.3]          Brother Burrill also stated that Elder W. W. Simpson is a Canadian, and that such men as he are needed in Canada. He seems to think that it is not right that Elder Simpson should be held in Los Angeles. I know nothing in regard to Elder Simpson's case, except that he has been used by the Lord in                                       -314-     his work in Los Angeles, and that he has been greatly blessed. Over one hundred have taken their stand for the truth as a result of his labors. At the close of his last series of tent meetings he thought of changing his field of labor, but he received a petition signed by many of the citizens of Los Angeles asking him to remain and continue his meetings. The Lord has given Brother Simpson a spirit of adaptability, with wisdom to plan and carry out his work, and He has blessed him in the bringing out of leaflets, notices, and charts that have aroused the interest of the people.  {15MR 313.3}
[15MR 314.1]          I would say, Let Brother Simpson labor where his message is evidently accomplishing great good. Those who have come to his meetings have given freely of their means to sustain the work that he has carried forward. At this time, when there is such urgent need of workers in Los Angeles, when the brethren are seeking to establish a sanitarium there, I dare not say to Elder Simpson, You must go back to Canada. And, besides, such a move might not be best for his health. For the present let him remain in Los Angeles, for the Lord is giving him marked success in bearing the message to the people. Let him give the trumpet a certain sound, arousing those who have never heard the truth. May the Lord encourage him to remain in Los Angeles until the church members are aroused to gird on the armor and show that they have a burden to give the message. Our ministers are not to hover over the churches. They are to proclaim the truth, as Elder Simpson is doing. Let those who know not the truth be given an opportunity to hear the reasons of our faith.  {15MR 314.1}
[15MR 314.2]          I believe that Brother Simpson is presenting the truth as God would have many others present it. Some of the brethren in Los Angeles felt that he should do more in the church there. When this was suggested to me, I                                        -315-     thought of the answer that Christ gave when the priests and rulers reproached Him for eating with publicans and sinners. "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance," He declared.  {15MR 314.2}
[15MR 315.1]          Let the work now being accomplished for those who have never before heard the truth, lead our ministers and church members in Los Angeles to arouse. Let them take hold, as they see that God is working. Let them make diligent work in repenting of their coldness and indifference and selfishness. As the church is by repentance cleansed from this neglect, and the members are converted, they will heartily engage in laboring from house to house. By teaching those who are seeking for the light of truth, they themselves will receive a valuable education.  {15MR 315.1}
[15MR 315.2]          Let no one, by precept or example, seek to draw Elder Simpson from his God-appointed work. Let all take hold with him in an effort to carry the work in clear lines. The members of the Los Angeles church need to heed every message that comes to them bidding them arouse from their stupor. If they will earnestly seek the Lord, He will give them light and life and the quickening power of the Holy Spirit.  {15MR 315.2}
[15MR 315.3]          The message that I have to bear to the church in Los Angeles is, Awake, and put on the whole armor of God. There is selfishness in the church that must be rooted out. Seek the Lord earnestly. Reveal in your lives the sanctifying power of the truth. Cooperate with the evangelist that the Lord has placed amongst you. God would have you work as fishers of men.  {15MR 315.3}
[15MR 315.4]          Pray much, and practice self-denial, that you may help in establishing the sanitarium at Glendale, which is struggling to make a beginning. Seek to make it an institution after God's order. Some can do more than others,                                            -316-     but all can do something. There are those who, if they will deny self, may do much more than they have done, and if all will take hold in earnest, the Glendale Sanitarium may be made a praise in the earth.  {15MR 315.4}
[15MR 316.1]          In the securing of buildings for sanitarium work in southern California, we see the gracious leading of God. These buildings have been secured at a very small cost, and the Lord would now have His people build up and strengthen the work.  {15MR 316.1}
[15MR 316.2]          The Glendale Sanitarium must be furnished and equipped. There is a great work to be done for that institution. Do not discourage those who are trying to do what they can to carry on the work. Help Brother Burden and those who are placed in charge of the sanitarium work, that they may do all that needs to be done.  {15MR 316.2}
[15MR 316.3]          I make a special appeal to the church in Los Angeles. God expects you, as a church, to be purified and refined. Put away all accusing and dissension; lay aside all fault-finding and jealousy, and let every one come up to the help of the Lord. You need to arise and trim your lamps, that they may give a clearer light. All should appreciate what is being done to bring the truth before unbelievers.  {15MR 316.3}
[15MR 316.4]          Let the older members be an example to those who have recently come into the truth. I entreat those who have been long in the truth not to hurt the new converts by living irreligious lives. Lay aside all murmuring, and do thorough work in your own hearts. Break up the fallow ground of your hearts, and seek to know what you can do to advance the work in Los Angeles.                                            -317-  {15MR 316.4}
[15MR 317.1]          Temptations are being brought in by men who have been long in the truth. The truths that we received in 1841, '42, '43, and '44 are now to be studied and proclaimed. The messages of the first, second, and third angels will in the future be proclaimed with a loud voice. They will be given with earnest determination and in the power of the Spirit.  {15MR 317.1}
[15MR 317.2]          The members of the Los Angeles church need to have a deep work of grace done in their own hearts. Let every one build over against his own house. The messages given by Elder Simpson, which convert sinners, should be sufficient to arouse you also. Awake, awake, and give to the unconverted evidence that you believe the truth of heavenly origin. Unless you do awake, the world will not believe that you practice the truth that you profess to hold.  {15MR 317.2}
[15MR 317.3]          Pray earnestly. Read and study the prayer of Christ as given in the seventeenth chapter of John, and then seek to live lives that will answer that prayer. Read also the messages given in the third chapter of Revelation. God sent His angel from heaven to give these messages. The message to the Laodicean church belongs to the church in Los Angeles, and to our churches generally. Will they arouse, and do the work that God has given them to do?--Letter 75, 1905.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. March 12, 1986. Entire Letter.  {15MR 317.3}
[15MR 318.1]       MR No. 1182 - A Caution Against Heavy Investment in Food Manufacture         (This message was written at Sanitarium, California, September 19, 1906, and was presented verbally at Mountain View, California, according to an interlineation by Ellen White next to the title.)  {15MR 318.1}
[15MR 318.2]          In the night season a representation was given to me, and some instruction regarding the health food work. A few men were examining some plants having a tangled mass of roots. The roots on some of these plants were very long. Others had shorter roots. Those with the long roots looked healthy and promising, and men were rejoicing in the prospects of much fruit from these plants. Each seemed eager to secure the ones he regarded as the most promising, and there was strife and contention over them.  {15MR 318.2}
[15MR 318.3]          One of authority appeared in the midst of them, and said, "You do not need these long roots."  {15MR 318.3}
[15MR 318.4]          "Why do we not need them," some asked.  {15MR 318.4}
[15MR 318.5]          "Because the Lord is honored only by those plants that are connected with fruit-bearing branches. You are greatly mistaken in supposing that these longer roots will bring forth fruit such as you desire. A large expenditure of means to secure possession of them will result in confusion and will involve you in difficulties that you do not now realize.  {15MR 318.5}
[15MR 318.6]          "The plants with the short roots are the ones you should select; for their cultivation will not absorb a large amount of means, and within a short time they will bear fruit to the glory of God.                                            -319-  {15MR 318.6}
[15MR 319.1]          I was shown that the plants with the long, tangled roots represent certain food enterprises, which seem to be very promising, but which would produce but small returns in proclaiming God's redeeming love to man. These enterprises represent a large outlay of means, but they are not in harmony with the Lord's method of carrying forward His work, and they will result in entanglements.  {15MR 319.1}
[15MR 319.2]          The plants with the short roots represent enterprises which will not require such a large outlay of means, but which will bring speedy returns in the advancement of the gospel, and will result in the salvation of many souls.  {15MR 319.2}
[15MR 319.3]          To us as a people God has given the work of preaching in all parts of the world, the gospel of the kingdom. Our means and talents are not to be bound up in the production of expensive foods. Our commission is to proclaim the truth, that "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  {15MR 319.3}
[15MR 319.4]          I am bidden to say that we are not largely to bind up talents in food enterprises. Our food stores and our restaurants have not been trees that have borne a large crop of fruit. There needs now to be a converting power among our workers. In our food work we should study the simplicity of health reform. Better results will be seen if we devote our energies largely to the work of educating the people how to prepare simple, healthful foods in their own homes, instead of spending our entire time in the manufacture and sale of foods which involve a large investment of means. Many are unable to purchase the manufactured health foods. By teaching these                                          -320-     persons how to utilize the simple food products of the earth in a healthful manner, we shall reveal a spirit of true Christian benevolence.  {15MR 319.4}
[15MR 320.1]          During the past night, I received this instruction for our brethren: Keep your money, and deal in foods that are much less costly, and which, prepared in a nutritious form, will answer every purpose. I call upon our people: Be not deceived; be not decoyed; neither begrudge to the speculating parties their wonderful advantages. The Lord bids me raise my voice in warning. Beware how you invest the Lord's money in things that you can get along without. Endeavor to produce less expensive preparations of the grains and fruits. All these are freely given us of God to supply our necessities. Health is not insured by the use of expensive preparations. We can have just as good health while using the simple food preparations from the fruits, grains, and the vegetables. And if we will return to God a tenth of all that He gives us by His blessing, this can be used to support the ministers in their work.  {15MR 320.1}
[15MR 320.2]          Every feature of the third angel's message is to be proclaimed in all parts of the world. This is a much greater work than many realize. Our missionary enterprises are the one great object demanding our undivided attention at this time. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." In this work we are to study simplicity. This message is a testimony message. Received into honest hearts, it will prove an antidote for all the world's sins and sorrows. No conditions of climate, of poverty, of ignorance, or of prejudice can hinder its efficiency or lessen its adaptability to the needs of mankind.  {15MR 320.2}
[15MR 320.3]          The proclamation of the great gospel message is the work of the disciples of Christ. Some will labor for this in one way, and others will                                         -321-     carry another branch of the work, as the Lord calls and directs them individually. Not all have the same line of work, but all may unite in their efforts.  {15MR 320.3}
[15MR 321.1]          The word of the living God is to be proclaimed throughout the world. The gospel is to go forth with great power, marked by practical manifestations of the Spirit of God. Our workers are to become a living agency to reveal the purpose of God in calling them to His work. The word of the glorious gospel is to be preached in its divine comprehensiveness. By the living voice, and by kind, compassionate deeds, we are to exemplify the principles of the gospel. The simple, effective methods of teaching truth are represented by the short roots.  {15MR 321.1}
[15MR 321.2]          The truth may be advanced by works of charity, by helping the ignorant, the sick, the hungry, and the helpless. But our work is not to be confined to the outcasts. The highways as well as the byways are to be thoroughly worked. A far greater work might have been accomplished if counterworking influences had not created contention and strife. Let the churches be purged from their selfishness and their pride, and gain an experience of uniting with one another to encourage the hearts of the doubting and to recover those who have entered the mist and fog of unbelief.  {15MR 321.2}
[15MR 321.3]         All are to hear the last message of warning. The prophecies in the book of Revelation, chapters 12 to 18, are being fulfilled. In the eighteenth chapter is recorded the very last call to the churches. This call is now to be given. In the nineteenth chapter, the time is pictured when the beast and the false prophet are taken and cast into the lake of fire. The dragon, who was the instigator of the great rebellion against heaven, is                                         -322-     bound and cast into the bottomless pit for a thousand years. Then follows the resurrection of the wicked and the final destruction of Satan and all the wicked, and the final triumph and reign of Christ in this earth.  {15MR 321.3}
[15MR 322.1]                             Work for the Colored People          There is now to be a decided work done for the neglected colored people in this country, where they were so long kept in slavery. Here we are surrounded by Christian churches, benevolent institutions, and educational institutions for the benefit of our own race, and these have proved a great blessing in shedding abroad the light of the regenerating power of Christianity. We need now more schools and colleges where the colored people can obtain a Christian education.  {15MR 322.1}
[15MR 322.2]          The old, the middle-aged, and the children are to be educated, all as little children. Gather them in schools. Secure donations of land, and on this land build neat cottages. Give the students lessons in building these cottages. Teach them how to till the soil successfully. Show them how the land is to be cultivated in order to produce a bountiful harvest.  {15MR 322.2}
[15MR 322.3]          Let not this work be longer delayed. Do not neglect this work and allow means to be tied up in plants with long roots. Cultivate the trees with the short roots, that can more quickly be brought into fruit-bearing.  {15MR 322.3}
[15MR 322.4]          In our work in the South we must exercise the utmost care not to provoke or annoy the white people, who are unprepared to meet the issues. Do not create prejudice, if it can possibly be avoided. Make no drive on anyone, but let aggressive work be carried forward.  {15MR 322.4}
[15MR 322.5]          There are tens of thousands of colored people in America, and their needs are to be considered. The reformatory work, the educational work among this people has not been done as it might have been done, if those                                         -323-     professing to believe the truth had not taken a course of action which has created conditions that have blocked the way. The work of the third angel might have been advanced one-hundred-fold in its various branches, had all done faithfully the work as God appointed them. The work for the colored people has been bound about. Only a small portion of that which God desired to do for them has been done. This people are ignorant, and those who have had more light have done but little to enlighten their fellow men.  {15MR 322.5}
[15MR 323.1]          In view of the needs of the work in all parts of the field, we cannot, as the light comes to me, gather up the trees with long, tangled roots, and invest tens of thousands of dollars in setting them out. May the Lord give wisdom to break the spell that rests upon those who think that this is necessary. So far as possible we are to bind about in the expenditure of means.  {15MR 323.1}
[15MR 323.2]          Let the work in the South be carried forward decidedly. Sanitariums must be provided for the sick. There is talent among the colored people, but where is the missionary spirit to seek for and to cultivate this talent? How much is being done by Seventh-day Adventists in caring for the sick and the ignorant? In many places civilization is almost unknown. Sin and degradation abound. Millions are perishing in ignorance. Some of our faithful missionaries have become discouraged because so little encouragement has been given them. But the divine message must come to the colored race. Preach to them the precious words of the Lord Jesus.  {15MR 323.2}
[15MR 323.3]          Sanctified talent is needed in the Southern field. Our workers there must lay hold upon the work in all its various branches, working in the highways and the byways. Let dormant energies be aroused and stimulated, and men and women set to work in an effort to reach every soul possible.                                         -324-  {15MR 323.3}
[15MR 324.1]          Aggressive missionary work is to be done by men who will not, by unwise speech, stir up an open warfare. So far as possible, let them secure the cooperation of the white people. Home missionary work, entered into understandingly, will bear an abundant harvest. To the colored people, who have so long been left in ignorance, teach the gospel both by the living voice and by the expression of thoughtful, loving deeds.  {15MR 324.1}
[15MR 324.2]          The gospel is the glad tidings of the love of Christ. That love has been expressed in giving His life for the salvation of the world. As that love is revealed in His followers, in loving deeds and words of sympathy, many will respond.  {15MR 324.2}
[15MR 324.3]          Parents, teach your children self-denial. Teach them not to spend their money for bows and ribbons and things that are unnecessary, but to spend all they can spare for the relief of the needy. Children, for Christ's sake, learn to deny yourselves. Put your savings into a self-denial box for the colored work. In the great day of judgment, every soul will be rewarded according as His works have been. The Lord will pronounce His blessing upon those who have denied themselves for His sake.  {15MR 324.3}
[15MR 324.4]         My sisters, when you purchase a dress, get a good material, something that is durable and that will not fade. But if you are tempted to expend money in unnecessary trimmings, think of the many who have no suitable clothing, and then put that means into the self-denial box. Let all do what they can in denying themselves of unnecessary things, and means will thus be saved that can be used to provide garments for those who have not sufficient clothing to make them comfortable.                                         -325-  {15MR 324.4}
[15MR 325.1]          Our message is to go to all the world. Then let no one think it wise to expend tens of thousands of dollars for the privilege of manufacturing certain articles of food, in the hope of conducting a profitable mercantile business.  {15MR 325.1}
[15MR 325.2]          Let us deny ourselves, that we may have gifts and offerings, with which to sustain the work of God that must be done in the Southern field, and in the opening of new fields. Let churches, schools, and sanitariums be built and conducted in a simple way. As we move forward in the counsel of God, His power will attend our efforts.--Ms 75, 1906.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. March 12, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {15MR 325.2}
[15MR 326.1]       MR No. 1183 - Testimony for Monterey, Michigan         While at Battle Creek, Michigan ［Dec. 23, 1860?］, I was shown in vision the state of God's people in Monterey. I saw that a great work must be done for many of them in order for the Lord to be glorified in the midst of His people. Those who do not make an effort to arise and zealously repent of lukewarmness and backslidings, God will spew out of his mouth. The time has come for God's people to arise. They have had warning upon warning, which, for the time being, has had an effect, but, not realizing their danger and making thorough work, they slide back again into the same indifferent, careless state. There are things in the church which must be corrected, for God is displeased with His people.  {15MR 326.1}
[15MR 326.2]          Those who have earthly possessions will have a work to do, a sacrifice to make. Their temptations and trials will come on account of their property. Satan and evil angels are zealously at work to encourage in them a selfish disposition, a love of the world. This can be overcome only by watchfulness and prayer. There is danger, danger on every hand, with those who have earthly possessions--danger of their loving them too well, danger of claiming as their own what God has only lent them to advance His work upon the earth. When the truth is presented in its clearness and is brought to bear upon the heart, some, while under the warming, quickening influence of the Spirit of God, get the sacrifice almost on the altar. But they do not consecrate all fully to God, and as the saving influence of the truth wears away they lose the spirit of sacrifice, the strong foe again obtains                                          -327-     control of the mind, the love of the world revives, and again they hug it to their bosoms and serve their treasure instead of God.  {15MR 326.2}
[15MR 327.1]          The battle is between truth and the love of the world. Which will obtain the victory? Will they suffer Jesus to captivate the heart, or will they let Satan control the mind and crowd out the love of truth, so that the angels receive the charge, "They are joined to their idols, let them alone"? All must be given up for Jesus. There are idols that must be sacrificed, dross that must be consumed, in order to reflect the image of Jesus. Again and again has the heart been affected, but the world has come in and choked the good seed sown that it has not produced fruit to the glory of God.  {15MR 327.1}
[15MR 327.2]          The Lord has permitted Brethren G and W to take hold of the truth, and the truth has been carrying on its purifying process in the heart. It has affected the life, and unbelievers are looking on and are surprised with the change they see. The heavenly treasure has been increasing in value to them, and the earthly decreasing and losing its attraction. These brethren are often strongly beset by the enemy, and have a hard warfare to get their possessions upon the altar. Satan and his evil angels are holding the possessions of earth in an attractive light that they may love them and idolize them. Satan and his angels would rejoice at their downfall, but angels of God are watching over them, bearing them up, that they may be an example to others that it is possible for the love of riches to be overcome, and the love of truth ［to］ predominate.  {15MR 327.2}
[15MR 327.3]          Especially will Brother W have to be guarded by the Spirit of God, or he will lose sight of the heavenly attraction and will place his affections upon earthly possessions. He must be more willing to impart freely of his                                          -328-     substance to aid the cause of truth and secure to himself a heavenly treasure. There is too often a shrinking from duty and an unwillingness to do all that God requires. There must be a union with the body.  {15MR 327.3}
[15MR 328.1]          I saw that it was not only those who have property that are in danger and that have a work to do. There are individuals who are not right, who are selfish and are not governed or controlled by the Spirit of God. They have embraced the message, come right along with God's people, without the thorough work of reformation being wrought in them. Their lives are not such as adorn the religion of Jesus and advance the cause of present truth.  {15MR 328.1}
[15MR 328.2]          I was shown the case of R. He has been blind to himself. There is in him a great lack of self-government and spirituality. I was pointed back and saw how it used to be with him--the passionate, willful temper, the stubborn will, the fitful moves. There has been something of a reform, but he has been very slow to learn. The work is not thorough. He makes an idol of himself, indulges his appetite, and lives principally for himself. Oh, that he could look back upon his past life and could see it as it is! He would be ashamed and alarmed at the little good he has done.  {15MR 328.2}
[15MR 328.3]          Who has been benefited by his life? He has been ready to shrink from every opportunity or opening to benefit others or do them good. There have not been in his experience living spots of self-denial to make others happy. Selfishness, self-interest, has reigned supreme in his heart. It is interwoven with his very life, and he has everything to learn if his life ［is to］ be filled with good works. He has so long indulged in this selfish course, so long been unwilling to deny himself to make others happy, that his case looks very dark to me and entirely hopeless unless he takes hold of the                                          -329-     work in earnest and denies himself, denies his appetite, and does his part to defray the expenses of the church. He eats of the loaf, professes to believe the truth, and it costs him nothing, while he feasts his appetite and cannot endure that anyone should be favored or benefited by him. God despises such a spirit, and all his prayers and exhortations are a stink in His nostrils while he possesses this spirit. Says the True Witness, "I know thy works." A faithful record is kept of it all.  {15MR 328.3}
[15MR 329.1]          There is a great lack of individual responsibility, of principle, and unless he takes hold of the work in earnest, God's people will pass along and leave him behind. Those who will be easily offended because of the straightness of the truth and the plain testimony, will mar the truth of God and pass along half-hearted, neither cold nor hot, weighing down the church until God spews them out of His mouth.  {15MR 329.1}
[15MR 329.2]          I was shown the lack of family government. Their children control them. Sister R has petted and indulged and yielded to almost every wish of their children that there might not be an outbreak, for then the father's passion is aroused and he corrects his children unreasonably, in blind passion. He must first govern and subdue himself, then he can understand to move with an even hand to subdue the tempers of his children. He has moved from impulse, with enraged feelings, which has been a ruinous example to the children.  {15MR 329.2}
[15MR 329.3]          Parents should subdue the will of their children with patience, firmness, and decision, and if they bring them to the house of God have them understand it is not a place for them to act as they please, a place to feast and to manifest their set will and passionate temper. The worshipers                                          -330-     in God's house are disturbed by unruly children. God's wrath is kindled because of these things. These unruly children should not be present when the ordinances are celebrated.  {15MR 329.3}
[15MR 330.1]          While these evils remain untouched everything passes along smoothly, but when the straight testimony comes and reproof and rebuke are given, there is a rising up against the straight testimony. It does not agree with the carnal mind, their carnal security is disturbed, they resist the work of God, and some will fall off. The names of those who will be purified, made white, and tried are borne into the sanctuary and mentioned by Jesus to His Father, and they are brought before the special notice of God. But those who choose their own selfish course, their own dark way, will be permitted to go on. Satan will control the will, and they will lose everlasting life. Those who are saved must yield their will, their way, and be controlled by the Spirit of God. They must die daily all the way along, die, die to self and be purified by the truth.  {15MR 330.1}
[15MR 330.2]          (Brother and Sister R, Senior) I saw that old Brother R has been under the cloud in darkness, but the cloud was passing away. The spirit of his companion is displeasing to God. She does not take a course to make herself and Brother R happy. There is too much fretting, complaining, and groaning. I saw that she did not look upon her past course in the right light. Had she conducted herself properly, they need not now be homeless and Brother R be compelled to labor so hard to obtain the necessaries of life. Brother R's course has been all wrong in the past, but it was the injudicious, determined course of his wife that drove him to desperation, and she should now take a very humble place in the church, for she has brought a stain upon                                     -331-     the cause of God. I saw that she must yield her set will, her complaining, and possess a cheerful disposition, yield to her husband and make him happy.  {15MR 330.2}
[15MR 331.1]          I saw that Sister B partakes of the same spirit as that of her mother. Brother and Sister B have erred in bringing up their child. He was not subdued young. Old Sister R petted and indulged her children until they have no power of endurance. A little difficulty or trial casts them down. Instead of developing a character and enduring trial and bearing with courage and perseverance, they sink under the cloud. Said the angel, "If thou hast run with the footmen and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?" ［Jeremiah 12:5］. The time of trouble is before us, and if there is lack of courage and ambition now, how will they pass the fearful scenes of that trying hour?  {15MR 331.1}
[15MR 331.2]          Some make their lives almost useless by thinking they are more afflicted than they really are. The Lord calls for a reform. Sister B must exercise faith, and wipe the disagreeable frown from the brow, and rather have it lightened up with the Spirit of God. Patience and endurance will effect a great work.  {15MR 331.2}
[15MR 331.3]          I saw the lack of government with their child. The mother and grandmother have indulged and sympathized with and excused the wrongs of the child until evil has strengthened with his strength. They have lacked an even hand and have not moved with decision. Sometimes his faults have been corrected and reproved, and then at other times neglected. There has been a lack of decision. He has not been restrained and subdued as he should have                                      -332-     been. This has at times called forth great severity from the father, on account of the indulgent course of the mother and grandmother. There has been a wrong all around, and the child has thought his father too severe, has despised parental authority, and been impatient of restraint. God has noticed these things. The boy's heart is fully set in him to do evil and to have his own way. Satan controls his mind.  {15MR 331.3}
[15MR 332.1]         Unless there is a reform, Sister B will know what trials are, for God will enter the dwelling and cause sadness. Long has Brother B stood up with feelings of heartache and afflictions of body and has thought he would suffer on until God delivered him. He has borne burdens, endured trials. Sister B should stand by his side and encourage him, instead of being in a situation ever to be helped and to demand sympathy herself. There must be a change, a reform, or one or the other will fall under.  {15MR 332.1}
[15MR 332.2]          I saw that Sister B had not received or believed the message that had been given her, but had felt like concealing it from everyone. She can make no progress until she makes straight work of the past, overcomes affectation and complaining, and exercises the strength the Lord has given her. Although she may suffer pain, yet she should not give up to every feeling of infirmity and repining. Bear up against it. Giving up to every infirmity pleases the enemy and magnifies these infirmities until the life is useless. The course that should be pursued is to seek God earnestly for strength. Bear up, bear up; talk faith, act faith; manifest courage. Although the body feels the effects of the curse, there must be a pressure against it. ［Sister］ B sinks under it. She thinks she is worse off than she is. She talks of her infirmities, thinks of them, and makes no effort to overcome them--all of which makes life miserable.                                     -333-  {15MR 332.2}
[15MR 333.1]          Others, with greater infirmities, bear up against them, and although they suffer some they attend to their daily duties, and the Lord assists them. And now, unless there is a reform with ［Brother］ R and ［Sister］ B, unless they are torn all to pieces and made over new, unless they lie broken at the foot of the cross, their spirit can never mingle with God's people. ［Sister］ B can be a help to ［Brother］ B if she will get right and possess another spirit. If this change does not take place, either ［Brother］ or ［Sister］ B will sink.  {15MR 333.1}
[15MR 333.2]          It is time for God to work. It is time for a reform. God has beheld the selfishness, the lack of doing others good. Self demands every extra effort. These things must be seen, and when there is a true sense of feeling over these things, it will bring her to the borders of despair. Brother B must move carefully, keep his mind in the right channel, fill his place in the church, and sympathize not with wrong.  {15MR 333.2}
[15MR 333.3]          The straight testimony must live in Monterey, even if it cuts off the right arm and plucks out the right eye. God calls for straight and thorough work. He is purifying unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. The Lord wants Brother B to be a pillar in His church and adorn His cause. God has given him an excellent spirit which He calls him to exercise in His church. If Satan can destroy his usefulness, his object is gained. He must watch against Satan's devices, and stand with firmness and decision, possessing freedom of spirit. He must wrestle for victory, press for the light, and leave all darkness behind.  {15MR 333.3}
[15MR 333.4]          I was shown the case of Brother and Sister L and Sardis. His will has not been restrained as it should have been. He has not, for a great length of time, regarded parental authority; has been set to have his own will,                                     -334-     carry out his own way. Said the angel, "He has broken God's commandments, a number of them, which makes him guilty of all."  {15MR 333.4}
[15MR 334.1]          I was pointed back many months ago and saw a heavy mist come over him which increased to a black cloud. His situation was represented to me as being fearful, dreadful. He has given way to his own passions until they have obtained the victory and he is bound by the strong foe. Said the angel, as he pointed to Sardis, "Dishonesty, deception, covetousness, and vileness." He has long been a reproach to God's cause. These things have cursed the church until God is waiting to free them. If Sardis will even now make thorough work, humbly confess his wicked course, submit to the judgment and will of his father, the Lord will have mercy and pity him. Unless he sees his wrong and makes thorough work, he will surely lose everlasting life and be separated from his people forever. In this age the child takes the place of the father, and in order to have peace the parents take the place of the child, and this is reversing the order in which God has placed these things. Children have no just sense of the respect and regard due their parents who have suffered so much care and anxiety for them. These things cause the frown of God to rest upon the church, and there must be a reform in order to remove the frown of God from His people.  {15MR 334.1}
[15MR 334.2]          I was shown the case of Brother H. He indulges too much in unbelief. The Lord calls upon him to stand with the church, throw his whole interest into the work. He must exercise the gift the Lord has given him and use his influence to God's glory for the upbuilding of His cause. He must let his influence be exercised to encourage the church, to stand with them, instead of discouraging them. If he will press with the people of God, he will feel                                      -335-     his heart bound with theirs. Unless he does this he will place himself where he is subject to the temptations of the enemy, and will become estranged from God's people. Brother and Sister H must arise together.  {15MR 334.2}
[15MR 335.1]          I was shown that there were those in the church who were ever ready to sympathize with the wrong and shrink from the straight testimony, fearing it will drive off some that might otherwise remain in the ranks of Sabbathkeepers. I saw that there had been many unconsecrated ones in the church at Monterey. Their hearts were unsanctified, unsubdued. God's frown was upon them, and after being often reproved, if they do not reform, they should be cut off from Israel.  {15MR 335.1}
[15MR 335.2]          The overthrow of Brother Y was his own set, stubborn will--his unwillingness to be influenced by the judgment of the church. The first great evil was the lack of family government. Sister Y was at fault here. She has too often indulged and put her children forward, and her husband corrected the children in passion, yet the interference of Sister Y made matters worse. She was too indulgent. Both were indulgent, and when the church felt compelled to move and cut off those who were only a curse, both Brother and Sister Y rebelled. The course the church pursued should have been carried out at an earlier date. Such trash, such clogs, should quickly be cut off from God's people. The church should move with judgment and discretion, but these cases are too plain to need delay.  {15MR 335.2}
[15MR 335.3]          Brother J's family are too ready to sympathize with their children, and however crooked are unwilling for the church to take action in their case. But this is wrong. God will have only those in the church who are earnestly striving to be right. Opportunity is given to develop character, and if                                        -336-     members of the family develop a character unworthy ［of］ the Christian name, they have no right to the privileges of the house of God. False sympathy must die. It commenced in heaven at the fall of Satan, and has existed ever since. This sympathy has blunted the straight testimony. It pleases Satan well.  {15MR 335.3}
[15MR 336.1]          I was shown in regard to the poor--objects of charity. I saw that the stewards of God have no duty in the case of those who will persist in using tobacco, coffee, and tea. Some of the poor are apt to place all the straight testimony upon the shoulders of the men of property, but there is something for them to do, a work that they must engage in. They must deny appetite. Here they can make a sacrifice. God calls upon them to do it. And after they leave off these hurtful things, if they get into straitened circumstances while exerting themselves to do the best they can, it will be a privilege for their able brethren to help them out of difficulty.  {15MR 336.1}
[15MR 336.2]          Many of the poor lack management and economy. They should make great efforts to reform on this. They lack judgment, and should not depend on their own judgment but counsel with their brethren who have judgment, and then take their advice. But it is too often the case that those who lack judgment and management are averse to seeking counsel, therefore they make bad moves and suffer in consequence. They seem to think their judgment is sufficient.  {15MR 336.2}
[15MR 336.3]          If those who are in poor circumstances take this humble course and rely upon the counsel of their brethren, then are brought into strait places, their brethren should take hold and relieve them cheerfully. But if they will not do this, but choose their own course and their own judgment, and                                        -337-     suffer in consequence, it is better to let them learn by the things they suffer. God's people must be subject to one another, counsel and advise with each other, and the lack of one must be supplied by the sufficiency of the other. There is a lack of humility.  {15MR 336.3}
[15MR 337.1]          The Laodicean message loses its influence too soon. It must affect the church. The counsel of the True Witness is not heeded. The church does not zealously repent.  {15MR 337.1}
[15MR 337.2]          I was shown the case of Brother M. His interest is in the truth and he considers nothing too dear to sacrifice for the truth. I was pointed back to a certain time and saw that he had done more than God required of him, which has caused him embarrassment. He moved too strongly. He saw that there was need for something to be done and was disgusted by the slow course of those who could do something. Their unwillingness grieved him. He saw that the lack must be supplied and he moved strongly and the burden was not equally divided. Brethren G, W, L, and J should not have been so backward, but should have shared the burdens at the very time they ought to be borne. Brother M became impatient and his brethren were grieved with him, but their error was greater than his. Brethren J and L have not been as willing to bear their part of the burdens as they should have been. This lack injures their own souls. They must prize the truth above everything else, and be willing to sacrifice for the truth.--Ms 4, 1860.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. March 12, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {15MR 337.2}
[15MR 338.1]       MR No. 1184 - Building a Meetinghouse at Avondale; How to Make Camp Meetings Productive; Nathaniel Davis and Demon Possession         (Written August 31, 1897, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, to A. G. Daniells.)  {15MR 338.1}
[15MR 338.2]          I have greatly desired to write to you, but have been very much hindered by the many things that are pressing in upon us just now. The building of the chapel has been one of the important matters. We saw the necessity of having this building, and night after night the message came to me, "Arise and build; Now is the time to arise and build." The whole church was awake upon this point, and the whole school enthusiastic over it. The room we now occupy cannot be ventilated without opening windows, thus exposing someone to the risk of taking cold. There were those who would sit through the discourse, and for want of air would sleep.  {15MR 338.2}
[15MR 338.3]         I have no time to dwell long on this part of the subject that has required much thought and much prayer. We thought the thing could be accomplished, and we have undertaken the matter. The foundation will be laid today, and then the work will progress as fast as possible. If the Lord's blessing rests upon the planners and workers, the building will be ready for dedication within five or six weeks. Then the delegates can be accommodated in the house built for the Lord.  {15MR 338.3}
[15MR 338.4]          Should there be any lack of means for this work, before we receive the donations we expect, means from the school fund must be appropriated. This money was solicited with the statement that it was for the erection of school buildings and a chapel in which to worship the Lord in a proper                                      -339-     manner. I should have no hesitancy in appropriating money for the church from this fund that has been so long in the Echo office, and a portion of which is still in Battle Creek.  {15MR 338.4}
[15MR 339.1]          We may receive sufficient for the meetinghouse without touching the fund that we wish to use for the main school building. But I am calculating only for a time of emergency and dearth of means. I know that Brother Haskell is not in a condition to do much in the money line. I should have money to return to him, for he loaned me $1,000 to be used in the Australian Mission until he should need it to invest in a home for himself. Since that, he has loaned me $300 more, and just before coming to Australia he furnished $300 more. All this has been invested in the cause of which I am made steward.  {15MR 339.1}
[15MR 339.2]          Brother Haskell said that you asked him what he would do. Now, in consideration of what he has done, I would not say anything to him on this point. It would be out of place when others who are situated where they could do equally with him, cannot show that they have done as much. It is not best to urge him.  {15MR 339.2}
[15MR 339.3]          He is strangely situated. For some reason he has not received his money for labor during the year 1896, and he is not in a situation to do much, if anything, unless he draws from me the money I have invested in various ways to advance the work here in Australia. He will not place me in trying circumstances in order to raise the money and return it to him unless he is compelled to do so.  {15MR 339.3}
[15MR 339.4]          I shall return to him the money invested in Australia just as soon as means come in to me from my book. Then the gifts will have come from me,                                       -340-     and not from him. The money was given by him to be used until he called for it. Every dollar of personal donation in my own behalf, I have invested in meetinghouses and in advancing the work in different lines. I have invested no less than $500 that have been sent to me as a personal donation to be used for myself. Not one dollar of it have I used for my own personal interest.  {15MR 339.4}
[15MR 340.1]          Now a few words in regard to camp meetings. I thought we were assembled for consultation as to the best way to do in reference to our camp meeting in Sydney. One listened to the counsels given in reference to making large efforts previous to the meeting, and the propriety of being at a heavy expense to distribute notices and papers before the camp meeting. Preparations were being made to do this when One who is wise in counsel made remarks which I cannot now repeat but which convicted all minds. He said, "Set your tents, commence your meeting, then advertise, and more will be accomplished."  {15MR 340.1}
[15MR 340.2]          I understand that Brother Baker will send you a copy of that which I sent him. I gave directions to have a copy sent to you, and you must have it ere this. The word spoken was, It is not the best plan to follow one line of efforts year after year. Change the order of things. Satan is prepared, when you give him time and opportunity, to rally his forces, and he will work to destroy every soul possible. It is best to change the order you are devising. Do much more work after the meeting. Follow up the interest then rather than before. The spoken truth will have much greater influence than papers containing articles in vindication of the truth. But both combined will have greater force.                                           -341-  {15MR 340.2}
[15MR 341.1]          In consideration of that which I have already written, I will not dwell longer on this point, but will speak on another subject in reference to our meeting. If, after the meeting has commenced, a press could be secured to be worked during the meeting, preparing leaflets, notices, and papers to be distributed, it would be as a living thing in their very midst. But to do that which was done at previous camp meetings in Sydney will not answer the purpose now, or have similar results.  {15MR 341.1}
[15MR 341.2]          Great efforts are to be made. Every soul that believes the truth is to stand in his lot and place, saying, "Here I am; send me." Our camp meetings in Sydney and Melbourne must not show a dearth of laborers. There should be far more personal effort made in practical lines to reach souls.  {15MR 341.2}
[15MR 341.3]          Brother Baker has visited us, and he has received the impression that ministers such as Elder Farnsworth and others coming to the union conference in Sydney must hasten back to their fields of labor to carry on the work in their special conferences. This is not wise calculation. Our ministering brethren are at great expense in coming, and should work together to have the camp meeting thoroughly manned with efficient workers. One or two must not do all the preaching and all the teaching in Bible lines. At times greater good can be accomplished by breaking up the large congregation into sections. Thus the educator in Bible truths can come closer to the people than in a larger assembly.  {15MR 341.3}
[15MR 341.4]          Oh, that God would help in this crisis of our work, is my daily prayer. In Sydney, after the camp meeting is over, there should be the most discreet workers. Wise men should be left in charge to do personal work. Strength should not be wasted in the coming meeting by stretching them into the                                           -342-     night and exhausting the vitality of the ministerial workers. They are thus left shorn of spiritual and physical vitality.  {15MR 341.4}
[15MR 342.1]          If men will walk with God, He will hide them in the cleft of the Rock. Thus hidden they can see God in the way that Moses saw Him. With the presence and the light that God gives, they can comprehend more than they have deemed it possible to do. In walking with God and not with self, they will endure the seeing of Him who is invisible. All our workers have too slight a hold on God and eternal realities. The ministerial force in all our camp meetings must be as strong as possible. Preparations must be made for them to leave their fields of labor, if possible in safe hands, with those who will leave the work of preaching, and will labor from house to house as missionaries. In God many can do valiantly, and receive for their labor returns the richness of which will surprise them. God now calls for workers not only for the work of preaching but in coming close to individual souls, thus revealing an aptitude to watch for souls as they that must give account.  {15MR 342.1}
[15MR 342.2]          It is not in the order of God for ministers to come to the Sydney camp meeting and then return to their fields of labor. We must receive decided strength from God to engage in the work that is to be done. We must not let self swell to large proportions. We must consider the words of Christ, "Without me, ye can do nothing."  {15MR 342.2}
[15MR 342.3]          Brother Baker read to us Brother Palmer's proposition to come to Cooranbong to hold a canvassing institute. But this is not a favorable time. The meetinghouse, if it is finished, will require all our thought and all our time. The students have all they can carry in their program of study and work, and Brother Palmer would be disappointed in the work he                                         -343-     wishes to see accomplished. Those who attend camp meeting will have to work most earnestly, preparing to move to the point of interest in Sydney. The people here will have all they can possibly do to prepare for the meeting. Therefore this would not be a favorable time for Brother Palmer's efforts to tell to the best account. Those in his class could not retain the instruction they would need to have. On the campground he can have his class, which will embrace more than those in the school who wish to enter the canvassing field. Many more will be benefited by having the class in Sydney than here.  {15MR 342.3}
[15MR 343.1]          I wish to guard against laboring in a rush when there is little chance of doing the work to the best possible advantage. I can write only briefly on these points. We would enjoy nothing better than to have Brother Palmer come up here to labor in the line he proposes, but it would not be best under the circumstances. He would not be satisfied himself, and those he would teach are not prepared just at the close of the school for this work.  {15MR 343.1}
[15MR 343.2]          Brother Daniells, I wrote you a few lines in reference to Brother Davis. Evil angels are all about him, and at times have control of him in a strange, revolting way. I did not mean to speak of this to anyone, but I have the word from the Lord that he is possessed of an evil spirit and "has no power from the snare to go." His case is like the cases of ancient times. At times, he thinks, speaks, and acts under the influence of satanic agencies, and does revolting things. This casts him into despair. His only hope is to present his case before his brethren who have a living connection with God. The spell will be broken only by most earnest wrestling with God, and this I present to you. Why I spoke of his remaining in Sydney was that he could be in connection with those that could help him during the camp                                         -344-     meeting. As soon as possible, this demon-tempter's power must be broken. The more Brother Davis is pressed into the work of God with those that are connected with God, the less power Satan will have over him. But Satan must be rebuked as in olden time, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. This in faith we must ask the Lord to do, and He will fulfill His word. The Lord will hear prayer. Brother Davis' connection ［with］ spirits, his experience in theosophy, is his curse. Labor we must to have the man dispossessed.  {15MR 343.2}
[15MR 344.1]          I can write no more on this line. The mail goes now.--Letter 39, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 10, 1986. Entire letter.  {15MR 344.1}
[15MR 345.1]       MR No. 1185 - The European Missionary Council  ［SEE A. L. WHITE, THE LONELY YEARS, PP. 299-315;  ALSO, D. A. DELAFIELD, ELLEN G. WHITE IN  EUROPE, PP. 66-85］.         (Written September 18 to 26, 1885, from Basle, Switzerland, to G. I. Butler.)  {15MR 345.1}
[15MR 345.2]          I attended the morning meeting. There was quite a large gathering of Germans, French, Italians, and English. The prayers were offered in all these languages. The Lord was near to bless His people. My heart was drawn out in earnest supplication that this meeting might be the beginning of better days for the laborers in these fields and for all assembled. I pleaded earnestly with God that heavenly wisdom might be given to everyone engaged in the work, that at this important council the Spirit of Jesus would soften and subdue hearts. I had the assurance of His word and Spirit that the Lord would hear and would answer our prayers. Nearly all our American brethren bore good testimonies, as did also Elders Matteson and Oyen.  {15MR 345.2}
[15MR 345.3]          I have had testimonies for this people especially on the necessity of love and unity. I have felt urged by the Spirit of God to keep before them the necessity of being teachable, easy to be entreated; that it was entirely out of place for Christ's servants to be self-sufficient and independent. I have tried to impress upon them that we are individually bound together in the web of humanity, and all that we do has relation to others, and any one                                         -346-     man is not a whole. It is not safe to follow one man's mind and one man's judgment. We are to be helps to one another but never to be the shadow of any man. God would have us think and act as free moral agents, gathering light from Him to reflect upon others, while we must be willing to be entreated of our brethren and to gain wisdom from men of experience.  {15MR 345.3}
[15MR 346.1]          I spoke upon James 3:13-18. Words went home to hearts. No one man is to consider himself authority in all things. We should be willing to learn one from another. Great and noble-minded men are teachable. Selfish and narrow minds are not willing to be taught. It is the privilege of men associating with men to lay under tribute every man's mind with which they come in contact, absorbing every particle of common sense that they can gain by the experience and education of others. If there are things that are not of value, cast that aside. If the heart is humble, the purpose true, they will have sanctified ears and perception to distinguish between the true and the false.  {15MR 346.1}
[15MR 346.2]          After meeting, Dr. Vincenzo Guerini, an Italian, filled a tooth for me. He is a refined gentleman, a dentist. He is considered the best workman in Naples. He is fully in the truth. A man of excellent spirit.  {15MR 346.2}
[15MR 346.3]         September 19. At half past six a.m. had a consultation with Brethren Bourdeau, Whitney, and their families. We were considering the best way to help the Italian Mission. We can see only one way, if we can bring it to pass--to connect Brother and Sister Mallon from Torre Pellice with the Basle Publishing House, and A. C. Bourdeau with his family go to Italy and occupy their house. Then Brother and Sister Mallon would feel that the work would go forward in Italy should they leave. Their property is involved, and by                                        -347-     disposing of their printing material they could relieve themselves of financial embarrassment and still have their house and a lot left. May the Lord direct, is our prayer. The talent of Brother and Sister Mallon is much needed in the publishing house in Basle.  {15MR 346.3}
[15MR 347.1]         Brother D. T. Bourdeau spoke in the early morning meeting. In the afternoon I spoke to the people from Colossians 1:24-29. I felt great weakness before going into the desk. I pleaded most earnestly with God in prayer to help me and to bless the people in a special manner. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me and upon the people. I was followed by three interpreters, German, French, and Danish, but this did not embarrass me in the least. The heavenly angels were in our midst. I was blessed in speaking, the people blessed in hearing. I cannot see but that my message is having a better impression than on the minds of my American brethren and sisters.  {15MR 347.1}
[15MR 347.2]          After the discourse we had a most precious meeting. Our brethren of all nationalities spoke of being greatly blessed, and of being very grateful to God for the word spoken. One brother who has been laboring in Naples, Bieglia by name, had been unwilling to come under the control of the conference. Yet he depended on them for means to carry on the work in his own way. He had manifested a spirit of independence. He expressed himself with deep feeling, and confessed his unconsecrated condition. He said, "I have heard and read about the mission of Sister White, but now I have seen and handled this matter myself. I acknowledge that the power of God has come to my heart through her testimony. I receive it as from God. I humble myself                                      -348-     before God. God's voice in reproof of my sins has come to me through Sister White."  {15MR 347.2}
[15MR 348.1]          Other testimonies acknowledged the blessing of God which the people had received. Surely we could say with Jacob, "The Lord is in this place." Many with tears say this is the best meeting that they ever experienced. Our American brethren seemed to be blessed and bore testimonies with brokenness of heart. They were excellent, humble testimonies. The testimonies of the Spirit of God are received. I really think the testimonies for some reason have greater power upon our American brethren who are over here in Europe than when I addressed them in America.  {15MR 348.1}
[15MR 348.2]          We sit down again in quiet in our room. It is four hours that we have been in meeting. Brother Bourdeau regretted that I had not spoken in the early part of the day, for he feared the people would become drowsy through weariness, but I saw no sleepiness; all seemed to listen with intense interest. After one hour there was a Bible class held.  {15MR 348.2}
[15MR 348.3]          September 20. I had a private interview with Brother ［A. A.］ John in regard to his manner of labor in holding open-air meetings. He now thinks that he had better connect with Elder R. F. Andrews in Ireland. Sister Ribton has written to him an urgent letter for labor where she is. I had talked with Brother Whitney in regard to Brother and Sister Mallon uniting their talent with the publishing house in Basle. It is thought best to carry this through. May the Lord help in working up this matter.  {15MR 348.3}
[15MR 348.4]          I attended the morning session of the council. I was requested to speak in regard to holding tent meetings in Europe. I told them that according to the light the Lord had given me tents could be used to good                                         -349-     advantage in some places and if conducted properly would result in great good. I did not know at the time why they called me out on this, but learned it was because Brother John had previously spoken rather against tents being the best for meetinghouse purposes.  {15MR 348.4}
[15MR 349.1]          I then presented my objections in regard to open-air meetings. They are very wearing to our ministers, because taxing to the vocal cords. The voice is strained to an unnatural pitch, and would be greatly injured by this method of labor. Another objection was that discipline and order could not be preserved; such labor would not encourage studious habits in diligently searching the Scriptures to bring from God's storehouse things both new and old. The worker is not qualifying himself to become a thorough workman; he cannot possibly prove his own work by concentrating his labors to bring out and organize a church. He does not do the very work so essential to be done, not only to preach but to follow up his labor by ministering, by becoming acquainted with interested ones, going to their homes, opening to them the Scriptures around the fireside, making plain essential points of present truth, and removing the objections which always will arise when the truth is brought in conflict with error.  {15MR 349.1}
[15MR 349.2]          The Bible talks, the humble, earnest prayer with the family, accomplish a greater work than the most powerful discourse can accomplish without this personal effort. In the open-air meetings there cannot be that complete work done in binding off the work, that he may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.  {15MR 349.2}
[15MR 349.3]          Sometimes great good may be done by this manner of labor. But as a practice it is better to reach the people in some other way. Our ministers                                        -350-     have not the physical strength to endure the taxation of the vocal organs in this kind of labor. Our ministers should be guarded in regard to preaching long discourses. It is a great tax upon the speaker and a tax upon the people to digest so much matter. Sermons of one half the length would be of far more value than the long sermons usually preached, which are wearing out the strength of the ministers by exhausting efforts that are not necessary.  {15MR 349.3}
[15MR 350.1]          If ministers would work intelligently in their ministry, they would have left a source of strength to be given to more personal efforts and to the work that is essential to be done for the perfection of the work in all its parts. Many of our workmen wear themselves out when God does not require it. Many of them cripple their energies, or become martyrs to their imprudence. Our workers need to become educated upon these points. There is a great work to be done in this cause, and the laborer can do much more work if he does not preach at one time so long as to weary himself and his hearers.  {15MR 350.1}
[15MR 350.2]          September 21. Reports of labor and the manner of laboring, and the extending of the work into new fields, were discussed. I attended the morning meeting. There were two seasons of prayer, both in French and English. Brother Mallon bore an excellent testimony. He is an Italian, having a printing office and publishing a paper. His wife is an excellent woman--intelligent, and speaks several languages. She translates and is a real general. I spoke to the people in reference to the laborers going out two by two. I told them that this was Christ's arrangement. I spoke at some length on this point.                                       -351-  {15MR 350.2}
[15MR 351.1]          Meetings in the forenoon were upon the work of entering new fields and of carrying forward the work in the most economical manner. W. C. White related with what poverty the message was proclaimed in its first rise. He spoke ably and with deep feeling. I followed, relating our experience in our early work. I spoke of the embarrassment of the cause now because of empty treasuries. The only course I could see to pursue was to lay these empty treasuries before the Lord and plead for Him to supply the great need. I exhorted the workers to have more faith. The Lord has means somewhere entrusted with His stewards, and He now calls for this means to be invested in His work.  {15MR 351.1}
[15MR 351.2]          I have had to break off writing to have an interview with Brother Albert Vuilleumier. He is in some perplexity. His brethren urge him to be ordained, but he wishes to wait one year longer. He will work, he says, all the same, but he fears that he has not sufficient experience. I believe him to be an excellent man. He wished to know how he should present the truth in entering new fields, whether the Sabbath should be presented first. I told him that the best and wisest plan would to be to dwell upon subjects that would arouse the conscience. He could talk upon practical godliness, devotion, and piety, and present the self-denying, self-sacrificing life of Jesus as our example until they will see the contrast between that and their self-indulgent life and become dissatisfied with their unchristian lives.  {15MR 351.2}
[15MR 351.3]          Then present to them the prophecies; show them the purity and binding claims of the law of God. Not one jot or tittle of this law is to lose its force, but hold its binding claims upon every soul to the end of time. When the law of God is made void, when the Christian world is joined with the                                        -352-     Catholic and the worldly in making of none effect the commandments of God, then God's chosen people arise to defend the law of Jehovah.  {15MR 351.3}
[15MR 352.1]          This is the guile that Paul used; this is the wisdom of the serpent and the harmlessness of the dove. When we come to a community acquainted with our faith, this cautious course need not be pursued, but in every case special efforts should be made to come close to hearts by personal labor. Avoid running down the churches. Do not let the people receive the idea that your work is to tear down; it is to build up, and to present the truth as it is in Jesus. Dwell much upon the necessity of vital godliness.  {15MR 352.1}
[15MR 352.2]          September 21. Brother and Sister Whitney, Brother and Sister Mallon, W. C. White, and myself had a conversation in regard to Brother and Sister Mallon connecting with the office. Sister Mallon was our interpreter. Her husband cannot speak English. We greatly desire that this change should be made, for the talent they possess is greatly needed in this printing office. The work would be enlarged and publications multiplied in different languages. In case Brother Mallon should leave Italy, then someone would have to take their place to hold what has already been gained to the cause of truth and gather in others.  {15MR 352.2}
[15MR 352.3]          We see no one to go but Brother A. C. Bourdeau. Italy would be a good field for him to work in. His experience would enable him to do a good work, we hope. We told them that Daniel and Augustine should labor together and help each other. In the next six months work should be put forth in or near Geneva, where several colporteurs have been at work. From Brother Mallon we learned many important facts in regard to the Italian field. It                                       -353-     will require a strong, determined, persevering effort to move things there, but when once the work takes hold, there will be numbers gathered to the cause of truth.  {15MR 352.3}
[15MR 353.1]          We expect to see the work of God advancing rapidly the coming year in fields which we now contemplate the workers entering. I feel very solemn in view of the work that God would have done in this country, and consider that if it can be entered upon in the right way the Lord will make the cause of truth to triumph.  {15MR 353.1}
[15MR 353.2]          We must make special efforts while the angels are holding the four winds, but there is constant danger of going forth to labor in self-confidence and leaving Christ out of the question. We want a strong hold from above; we want to press our petitions to the throne of grace; we must grasp the promises of God by living faith, in America and also here in Europe. In Christ we can be a host. Without Christ defects and mistakes will be seen in all the work. We are nearing the end; we are doing up the last great work for eternity; we are learning ourselves, and teaching others, that a people may be prepared to stand in the day of God's preparation. We cannot afford to work at random; we cannot afford to be doubleminded; we should now consecrate all our powers to God without reserve.  {15MR 353.2}
[15MR 353.3]          We should not work to the point where we exhaust our powers and cut short our days, but work in accordance with the laws of life and health, and do no more than we can do intelligently and with thoroughness. We have thought too much depended on what we could do, and have not depended enough on the Lord God of Israel to work for His people. God does not require any one of us to preach long discourses and offer long prayers, and raise the                                        -354-     voice to a high pitch, and hold so many meetings that the physical and mental powers are nearly wrecked.  {15MR 353.3}
[15MR 354.1]          September 22. We had a very precious season in the early morning meeting. There were many prayers offered in French and English, and a number of interesting testimonies were given. I then gave a little talk upon faith, setting before them that it is our unbelief that is offensive to God, and withholds us from God. If our faith is in accordance with our light and privileges in this age, then heaven is open before us, and the rich promises of God are fulfilled concerning us; nothing is wanting that Christ requires. The experience and character of His followers should be equal to the talents received.  {15MR 354.1}
[15MR 354.2]          Faith, obedience, and love are to be developed in the character, equal to the light and grace given. If there is not an increase of faith, there will be a decrease of light and blessings. Light is shining, and if we follow the light our experience will grow brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. All who walk in the truth will be renewed in knowledge and true holiness, and will be obtaining daily victories over self, pride, and the love of the world.  {15MR 354.2}
[15MR 354.3]          If there is not an improvement of the talents given of God, our condemnation will be in proportion to the grace and truth bestowed. If these were abundant and powerful, then our condemnation will be in accordance with them. The general distrust of God, the dwelling in an atmosphere of constant unbelief, is an offense to God; it is dishonoring to His name; it is distrusting His word. Without faith it is impossible to please God.                                     -355-  {15MR 354.3}
[15MR 355.1]          Many testimonies were borne by the hearers in response, through the translator, expressing their gratitude to God, acknowledging that they were seeing new light, and that faith was better understood by them. They could see now why they had not advanced more in Christian experience. It was because they had wanted to walk by sight and not by faith. Some then urged that the meeting continue one week longer. They said the lessons they were having from Sister White were of great value to them; that they were gaining much knowledge by the Bible studies and the instruction given upon the work of colporteurs and canvassers. The meetings of counseling together made it essential that all should remain. The decision was in accordance with the proposition.  {15MR 355.1}
[15MR 355.2]          September 23. I attended early morning meeting and had great freedom in prayer to our heavenly Father for the special blessing upon those assembled. I had a spirit of intercession that the servants of God should be fully qualified by the descent of the Holy Spirit to do their great work to perfection. The Spirit of the Lord was indeed in our midst, and there was a solemn impression that rich blessings are prepared for those who love God. While praying I felt deeply impressed that the church of Christ is called to respond to the light given, to the privileges granted them to be a powerful and holy people, a name and praise in all the earth. This is what Jesus is able to do for His church, and this is what He desires she shall be; and on this ground alone she can meet the claims of the gospel and enjoy its fullness. We seemed to be brought very near to God. Several excellent testimonies were borne of advancement and appreciation of the benefits they were receiving.                                         -356-  {15MR 355.2}
[15MR 356.1]          I made remarks from James 1:3 and onward in regard to appropriating faith. I presented before them the precious promise, "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. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering" ［verses 5, 6］. God requires heart service. To obey is better than sacrifice; without obedience and pure love the richest offering is too poor to be presented to the Owner of all things. The Lord gave me great freedom in presenting these ideas before the people, and I think they were received and appreciated.  {15MR 356.1}
[15MR 356.2]         We met Elders Bourdeau and their wives, Elder Whitney and wife, and Brother Kellogg. We were to consider the matter of Brother A. C. going to Torre Pellice, Italy, to commence a work there. We told them that this work would move slowly at first, but if they labored in wisdom souls would be converted. When one or two souls were converted they would begin to labor for others, and there would be an army for the Lord raised up in that place. There are quite a number of places in the valley, and if they made a beginning the work would spread through all these places. Many honest souls were buried up in the rubbish of superstition and erroneous doctrines, which they received from their preachers, who educate the people to look to them as if they were the true teachers of righteousness.  {15MR 356.2}
[15MR 356.3]          There will be at some time, I know not how soon, a disturbance in the valleys of Italy. The confidence of the people in their teachers will be shaken; the eyes of many will be opened, and the truth will be proclaimed among them. It seemed light to us that A. C. Bourdeau should commence his work in these valleys, while Brother and Sister Mallon were still there.                                       -357-     ［It also seemed light to us］ that Daniel and Albert Vuilleumier should commence in a place near Geneva, and thus the work go forward, the two Bourdeaus uniting when it was positively necessary.  {15MR 356.3}
[15MR 357.1]          We thought it wisdom to advise Charlie Andrews to go to America, with the purpose of learning to become an efficient workman in the binder's trade. Mother Andrews could have her choice to go to Italy with Martha and her husband, to remain in Basle, or go with Charles to America. Up to this point all ideas and decisions were unanimous.  {15MR 357.1}
[15MR 357.2]          Then Daniel presented his ideas in regard to France and Italy--that they should become a separate conference, standing separate from Switzerland. The means of France and Italy should not go into the conference at Basle, but be managed by these conferences, when as yet there were scarcely enough in either place to hold a meeting. I told Brother Daniel that this would not be in accordance with God's will. He pleaded that it would be better for the French that they should not unite with the Swiss Conference, for they were independent and naturally jealous, and if pressed to rules or order, there would be revolutionary feelings.  {15MR 357.2}
[15MR 357.3]          I told him these were the strong reasons that I would urge why they should unite with the Swiss Conference, and their interests be blended together, and they should not take on an independent spirit, but as followers of Christ be subject one to another. This is the very means that God has ordained that one shall have influence over another, and all be transformed and molded after the divine Pattern, that all the believers in Christ are to be sanctified through the truth.  {15MR 357.3}
[15MR 357.4]          The truth is one. It will take people from France and Italy and, mingling them with other elements, soften and refine them through the truth. Teach them that in humility and union there is strength. The love of Christ                                         -358-     and living faith would have a transforming power upon the man, upon his ideas, upon his character. The temper and the life experience will be softened and ennobled by divine truth. The influence of the truth is to take away from man that which is impetuous and rebellious, and bring him into harmony with heaven. God's purpose is to bring all into harmony and unity on the platform of truth as it is in Jesus. There are to be no separate interests formed or maintained by the believer in present truth.  {15MR 357.4}
[15MR 358.1]          The cause in Europe is yet in its infancy. I can see in this proposition of Brother D. T. ［Bourdeau］ that which alarms me. It has not the divine enlightenment. God's will is that the interests of every lover of truth shall be combined. Whatever God requires is the very best and safest course to follow. Now we find it profitable to yield obedience to God's plans. All who embrace the truth must be educated from the very first that their own ideas and will are not to be a power, but we are to study God's will. His will is to become our will. Our ways must be submitted to God's ways.  {15MR 358.1}
[15MR 358.2]          The truth is all-powerful and far-reaching. It will unite nationalities in one great brotherhood. I told them I could not see a greater evil to the now weak cause in Europe than that which Daniel was urging. Then Brother Daniel began to soar. He repeated his grievances in times past--the abuse he had suffered from his brethren in Battle Creek, that he was placed under Brother Andrews in Europe. He became very excited. I told them I had no more to say, and left the room. When he wants my counsel again I shall tell him that when he is willing to act like a reasonable man, I will talk with him.                                         -359-  {15MR 358.2}
[15MR 359.1]          This idea that French must stand French, and the Germans stand Germans, and thus the nationalities stand apart in their independence, is a device of the devil. It is the truth alone that saves the nationalities. The truth proves its power. It comes from God and it is His own Spirit in its agency which renders it effectual in the conversion and sanctification of those who hear and accept it. The sufficiency is not in the preacher, but in the mighty agency of the Holy Spirit, which gracious influence transforms the soul, bringing every thought into subjection to Jesus Christ.  {15MR 359.1}
[15MR 359.2]          Christ in men unites them on one grand platform, preparing for the uniting in one family in heaven. It is the truth that makes men one, and removes national prejudice. God forbid that any one of us will plan and devise to keep up separate interests. Nothing but the quick and powerful word of God, working in the heart of His delegated messengers to give the knowledge of the glory of Christ, can gain victorious results, which are essential for the blending of hearts and minds that they may be of the same judgement, speaking the same things.  {15MR 359.2}
[15MR 359.3]          Our private conference ended, I went into council, and resolutions were presented in reference to A. C. ［Bourdeau's］ removal into Italy. I presented some of the reasons I had given in the private council, why this change was advisable. These were well received. The decision was carried.  {15MR 359.3}
[15MR 359.4]          Then came the case of Brother Beglia. He was advised by the council not to confine his labors to Naples, but to go into new fields. I then stated that this was according to the mind of the Spirit of God for the workers to change from field to field, for should they be confined to one field there would be danger of the work being carried forward after one man's ideas. God would not have His church in any place to receive the mold                                       -360-     of one man's mind, and He would not have His workers cherish the idea that no man can understand the situation of the church and do for them quite as well as himself.  {15MR 359.4}
[15MR 360.1]          The Lord speaks to His delegated servants. He will give them the very message He wants them to have. The work of all bears the mark of imperfection. Self becomes interwoven more or less with the work. If the workers have weakness in some points of character, these defects are revealed and too often influence the people. Some cherish these weaknesses as a virtue, but another laborer coming into this field may be strong upon the very points where the other is weak, and he may be able to give a more perfect mold to the work. He presents new ideas and gives new impressions. The workers in any field must not become the people's pets, and idols, among the truth-believing people. One more council meeting is passed into eternity with its burden of record.  {15MR 360.1}
[15MR 360.2]          September 24. I went into the early morning meeting. I engaged in prayer, and my burden was for a special blessing upon the laborers, that they might be fitted up for the great work before us. I bore my testimony in regard to coming up to our high privilege. I presented before them the words of Christ, "if any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink." The promise is, "The water that I shall give shall be in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life." I was afraid the meeting would close and we fail to receive all the good that the Lord has in store for us. I urged upon my brethren to make the most of the present opportunities to exercise greater faith that they would receive help and strength from the great Source of strength.                                           -361-  {15MR 360.2}
[15MR 361.1]          I told them that they should be constantly guarded not to build up separate interests between the different nationalities. Some have pleaded that we must be very careful in our labor, for these people have peculiarities and the truth must be presented to them with the greatest care. There is much more made of this than there should be. We have one Lord, one faith, one baptism. The gospel of Christ is to reach all classes, all nations, all tongues and people. The influence of the gospel is to unite in one great brotherhood.  {15MR 361.1}
[15MR 361.2]          We have only one model to imitate, and that is Christ. Then we shall all be in perfect harmony; nationalities will blend in Jesus Christ, having the same mind, the same judgment, speaking the same things, and with one mouth glorifying God. This is the work the world's Redeemer is to do for us. If we accept the truth as it is in Jesus, national prejudices and jealousies will be broken down, and the spirit of truth will blend hearts in one. We will love as brethren; we will esteem others better than ourselves; we will be kind and courteous, meek and lowly, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruit.  {15MR 361.2}
[15MR 361.3]          I warn my brethren, Keep your partition walls down. In all your efforts as God's workmen, "preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus" (Colossians 1:28). This can be done only by striving according to His workings which worketh in you mightily.  God knows just how to meet the peculiarities of the different nationalities. Do not, my brethren, interpose yourselves between the work and God, for God knows better than you how to reach these men and women, and He will clothe His message to this people with that power which will reach their hearts and unite them with us in warning the world by                                        -362-     giving the trumpet a certain sound. Men are not infallible, and we are not to bend to men's fallibility and human judgment.  {15MR 361.3}
[15MR 362.1]          The third angel's message is infallible. It is to unite a people to do a special work, preparing them with perfection of character to unite in one great family in the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for those who love Him. And all the laborers are God's workmen to present infallible truth, to do the work of blending hearts in one. Never let your words or your efforts be directed to the end to disunite that which God would have united. You should influence France to work for the upbuilding of the cause in Switzerland. Do not encourage a one-sided interest, but all labor to cement together that they may have a molding influence on one another, that if any of the nationalities are encouraging peculiar ideas, that one may have a reformatory influence upon the other. Urge upon all to receive Christ's mold and imitate Christ's character. The apostle states, "Ye are all one in Christ Jesus." Christ in the German believer will recognize Christ in the French believer.  {15MR 362.1}
[15MR 362.2]          "Now 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). The truth will have the same molding influence upon hearts whatever their nationalities. Every human heart that accepts the truth will bow to the majesty of its sway, and when Christ is abiding in the heart by faith they will be of one mind, for Christ is not divided. They will be strong in His strength, happy and united in His peace. The truth is the same in its subduing power upon all hearts. It will refine and ennoble the character of the receiver.                                         -363-  {15MR 362.2}
[15MR 363.1]          This testimony was for the good of the people, especially for all the workers in this new field; but up jumps Daniel ［Bourdeau］ as though all I had said had been especially directed to him. He explained and justified and talked out his purpose, and made public the matter which we were seeking to keep dark. All our efforts had been to establish confidence in Daniel and to encourage his heart to be a man. Up to this point he seemed to be doing nobly; but he had cherished the pet plan of keeping France and Italy an independent conference, and to have me thwart this plan was next to death to him. Now he becomes the subject of Satan's strong temptations.  {15MR 363.1}
[15MR 363.2]          I had, during the meeting, spoken upon general principles, setting before our brethren the harm of long sermons and prayers, and loud talking, presenting to them the sure results of such a manner of labor. This he took all to himself. Now I had overturned his imaginary castle that he was building, and he acted as though he had received his death blow. He attended but a few meetings, and was working himself up into a frenzy. He was packing up to go home Friday morning. I had no desire to talk with him. I felt discouraged in regard to his case. I had no hope of leading him to see the offensive character of his course before God. A. C. ［Bourdeau］ wished me to talk with his brother and try to help his mind, but I had no courage to say a word more to him.  {15MR 363.2}
[15MR 363.3]          The Lord had been at work in the meetings. He gave me precious words to speak to the people day after day, not only to comfort but to set before them the necessity of a radical change of heart, a transformation of character, that the laborers should go forth to their fields of labor imbued with the Spirit of Christ. I had treated Daniel tenderly, but the evil in                                       -364-     the heart was not eradicated; it was only slumbering, ready to burst forth on the slightest provocation. That provocation had come, and now the results. We went along with the meetings, but Daniel entered no more into the spirit of them.  {15MR 363.3}
[15MR 364.1]          September 25. I attended the early morning meeting. My soul seemed in an agony as I prayed to God for Him to work. I knew our case was urgent. The ministers were not having that work done for them that must be accomplished before the Lord would work with any power. I felt that my prayer was heard, that the answer would come. Daniel was absent, taking counsel with Daniel and the adversary of souls. He was determined to go back to Geneva. His wife wept and implored him to stay. She said she could not go home with him in his state of mind. He said, "Well, so be it; we can separate as well now as any other time." I was solicited to try to do something to help him.  {15MR 364.1}
[15MR 364.2]          I prayed over the matter, and felt a burden upon my soul to speak to him again. I had walked my room in an agony of mind, saying to myself, I cannot talk with him; I cannot meet his defiant, stubborn spirit. He was like a man bereft of his reason. He would talk all the time, and while others were talking would break in upon them.  {15MR 364.2}
[15MR 364.3]          I sent for him and his wife to come to my room. Brethren Whitney, A. C. Bourdeau, Brother Lane, and W. C. White were all that were present. I began in a very decided but solemn manner to address him. He said he would rather see me alone. He repeated what he had suffered at Battle Creek, and in Vermont, from the abuse of his brethren. I told him I wished him to be silent, that I had the word of the Lord for him.                                        -365-  {15MR 364.3}
[15MR 365.1]          He became silent, and I gave such a message as I wish never to speak again to mortal man. I told him to look back upon his past life and see that when his track was crossed he had manifested the same spirit that now possessed him. It was the spirit of the devil, to all intents and purposes. ［I told him］ that I had no mild words to pet this demon racing within him, but I would combat it. I set before him his course--when he could not have his own way he was in a perfect frenzy. A man with as little self-control as he had was unfit to be entrusted with grave responsibilities in the work and cause of God. How could he expect ［that］ his brethren would have unlimited confidence in him when he at times abandoned himself to be controlled by Satan's power? His only hope was in being a converted man through and through. I asked him what dependence we could place in him if when his ideas were crossed the raging demon was aroused. I told him for his soul's sake not to leave the house until he was a converted man.  {15MR 365.1}
[15MR 365.2]          He felt abused because he thought I had made remarks to hit him. I said, Let us look back over the few days that we have passed together in these precious meetings. The most urgent appeals have been made by the Spirit of God. The true Christian character has been presented again and again. The fullness of the blessings of the gospel of Christ has been presented to the people. No one could doubt but that the presence and power of God had been in our midst. Now after all these tokens of good from the Lord, because some ideas of yours are not received, you open the door of your heart to the devil, and let him control the citadel of the soul. We have dealt very tenderly with you. We have been dealing on general principles before the congregation, presenting the true Christian character.                                            -366-  {15MR 365.2}
[15MR 366.1]          Some who had been teaching the truth to others, themselves needed to learn its first principles--mercy and the love of Jesus. Some who ought to be strong men in Christ as far as experience is concerned, are weak as babies. Their age and experience, opportunities and privileges, should make them strong men under temptation, but their life and character reveals they are only children. Some come to this meeting with great self-confidence --firm to carry out their own ideas. Decided testimonies have been given to me to meet these cases. The arrows from the Lord's quiver wounded you. Why do you place yourself as a target, then flutter as though wounded? Why not get out of my way, and let the testimony from God be set home by His Holy Spirit to hearts that need this? You get up and begin to excuse yourself, and justify yourself, thus exposing yourself to the congregation, saying to all, "Sister White means me, but all do not understand my case." You are, by this course, hedging up my way and hurting yourself.  {15MR 366.1}
[15MR 366.2]          I remember in the Beethoven Hall in Portland, Maine, those who were looking for Christ's coming met there to preach the second advent. Upon one occasion the hall was crowded. No less than eight ministers were present who were in opposition to the message given. Brother Edmunds arose and said, "We have a message from the Lord to the people, but when we proclaim it, lifting up our voice like a trumpet to show the people their transgressions, and the house of Israel their sins, the ministers are offended, and say, 'You are abusing me.' They step in between us and the people and say, 'You are severe; you hit us.' But we say to the ministers, 'Stand aside from between us and the people, and let the sharp arrows of the Almighty reach the hearts of the people, and you will not then be hurt; but if you catch                                            -367-     every arrow from the Lord's quiver, do not blame us. With tears I implore you to stand aside and let the warning voice arouse the people that they may get ready for the great day of the Lord."  {15MR 366.2}
[15MR 367.1]          Daniel, we entreat of you to set your heart in order that you will no longer be as a target continually being wounded. You have a determined will that is hard to bend. A few times in your life you have made a surrender to God, and you need to make that surrender again. Whenever your ideas are crossed, however perverted, then you lose that self-control so elevated and noble in the Christian character; you become untamable, unreasonable. Your self-love and independence become so strong ［that］ there is not one in your house or in connection with you who does not feel your presence and arbitrary power that will permit no liberty of conscience. By this course you alienate your brethren and even your own kindred from you. You force them to take a position at variance with you, and then you feel that they abuse you. Your own course pursued brought around these results. Your brethren saw these defects, that should you carry out your mind the results would be disastrous to the cause of God.  {15MR 367.1}
[15MR 367.2]          Now, consider how many times Jesus has forgiven you and taken His willful and rebellious child back to His arms. He has pitied and forgiven you the heavy debt you owed to Him, and yet notwithstanding this amazing love exercised toward you, you go forth like a debtor presented in the Scriptures whom God forgave an enormous debt but who found one of his fellow servants which owed him a few pence and he laid hands on him and "took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest, and thrust him into prison till he should pay the debt."                                            -368-  {15MR 367.2}
[15MR 368.1]          For you to pursue a course similar to this, Daniel, is poor policy. God in mercy has forgiven you great sins, and your brethren, whom you grieve and afflict with your wrong, who have studied and planned how to help you--if their decisions and plans injured your dignity, you have held them to strict account. You will relate your grievances while you have no just sense of your own wrongs which led to the necessity of the action of your brethren in your case. Unless you are a thoroughly converted man before you leave this house, I believe the Spirit of God will never make another appeal to you. It is life or death with you. You will surely be stricken down with paralysis, or the devil will drive you to suicide. I have, in the message hitherto borne to you, tried to establish you in the confidence of your brethren. ［I have tried］ to strengthen and settle you; but if you leave this house with the devil as your counselor, you are a lost man.  {15MR 368.1}
[15MR 368.2]          I have not in this message any comfort to give to Satan. The arrows of the Almighty must wound you so sorely that you will feel that you need a physician. "I have torn," saith God, "and I will heal; I have smitten and I will bind you up." When you come, meek and lowly, then Jesus will pardon your transgressions. I charge you not to leave this house till the power of the enemy is broken.  {15MR 368.2}
[15MR 368.3]          We then knelt in prayer; my soul was drawn out in an agony for Daniel Bourdeau. He prayed for himself rather faintly. I prayed again and again, with strong crying and tears, for God to cast out the devil. Brother A. C. and Marian, his ［D.T.'s］ wife, prayed with great brokenness of spirit. A terrible struggle was going on with Daniel. He did not fully surrender, but his face looked as though soul and body were rent asunder. He made concessions but had not yet yielded.                                            -369-  {15MR 368.3}
[15MR 369.1]          September 25. In the evening we had a ministers' meeting. I had feared that Daniel would not be present, but he came into the meeting. I opened the meeting with prayer. The spirit of earnest intercession was upon me, and the power of God was in our midst. Daniel prayed after me; he began to break and confess. We had a remarkable meeting. All prayed with weeping and humiliation of soul and hearty confessions.  {15MR 369.1}
[15MR 369.2]          I told them all that the object of our assembly together was to seek the Lord. I told them I was alarmed that at this late stage of the meeting, being Friday, that Satan was developing his power; he was stronger than they. We must have more than human help; we must seek God unitedly, and with strong faith claim His grace and strength to help us just now.  {15MR 369.2}
[15MR 369.3]          Brother Vuilleumier offered a most earnest prayer. I could not understand a word of it, since it was in French, but the Spirit of the Lord pervaded the meeting. Brother Matteson's prayer was full of the Spirit. All seemed to humble themselves before God. Brother Andrews began to feel and confess his coolness and to plead with God for help. Brother Wilcox began to throw his heart into the work. The council had advised his stay another year in England. This seemed to take life and soul out of him, and he took to his bed. He was quite sick for three days. He had a hard battle to fight. He needs a great work done for him before he can be a true missionary.  {15MR 369.3}
[15MR 369.4]          Light, precious light, was breaking in. My peace was like a river; Jesus was very near to me--how full of light and love, to impart to all who diligently seek Him! This was indeed a precious season to our souls.                                            -370-  {15MR 369.4}
[15MR 370.1]         September 26 was set apart as a season for fasting and prayer. I slept but little Friday night, but went into the ministers' meeting in the morning. I opened the meeting with prayer; the Lord poured upon me the spirit of supplication for my ministering brethren. Angels of God were in the building. Daniel broke out in most urgent prayer. He confessed and confessed, and pleaded for the forgiveness of God. Prayers and tears were mingled together. It was a most precious season. I bore a message with many tears, stating the solemn work of the watchmen and the necessity of faithfulness. The power of God rested upon me and upon those who heard. I never heard Brother Matteson talk as he did in that meeting. He seemed so humble, and his face shone with spiritual light. Every testimony was borne with deepest feeling. The crust over Elder Andrews is breaking. Daniel made a good confession in every way.  {15MR 370.1}
[15MR 370.2]          What a precious meeting this was to us all. The Lord's presence was in the meeting, and His power to bless. This has been a season of taxing labor to me, but the Lord has given me strength for my day. Daniel says he is now going to cease building up himself, and propping up Daniel Bourdeau, and poring over his past difficulties. He says he never loved his brethren as now. He is going to talk faith and hope and courage, and be a strong man for God. May the Lord give him might in the inner man. He says the peace of God is in his heart.--Letter 23, 1885.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 10, 1986. Entire Letter.  {15MR 370.2}
[16MR 0.1]         16MR - Manuscript Releases Volume Sixteen ［Nos. 1186-1235］ (1990)      A WORD OF EXPLANATION         WHEN ELLEN WHITE DIED IN 1915, SHE LEFT HER MANUSCRIPTS AND LETTERS IN THE CUSTODY OF A SMALL GROUP OF MINISTERS AND ADMINISTRATORS IN THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH WHOM SHE HAD APPOINTED TO SERVE AS TRUSTEES OF HER ESTATE. AS THE YEARS PASSED, THESE TRUSTEES AND THEIR SUCCESSORS BECAME INCREASINGLY AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL USEFULNESS TO THE CHURCH OF THIS GOLD MINE OF UNPUBLISHED MATERIALS. PROCEDURES WERE DEVELOPED WHEREBY CHURCH ENTITIES, OR EVEN INDIVIDUALS, COULD REQUEST THE "RELEASE" OF SPECIFIED EXCERPTS FROM ELLEN WHITE'S WRITINGS FOR USE IN BOOKS, ARTICLES, CLASS LECTURES, OR SERMONS. FOR DETAILS OF THE RELEASE PROCESS THE READER IS REFERRED TO THE PREFACE TO MANUSCRIPT RELEASES, VOL. 1.       AS IN THE EARLIER VOLUMES, MATERIALS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ELSEWHERE IN PUBLISHED FORM HAVE NOT BEEN INCLUDED IN THE PRESENT VOLUME. IN A FEW CASES MATERIALS UNDER CONSIDERATION AND ASSIGNED A RELEASE NUMBER WERE NOT  PROCESSED. AND THE NUMBER WAS NOT REASSIGNED. UNTIL 1983, ONLY THE EXCERPTS REQUESTED FOR PUBLIC USE WERE "RELEASED." STARTING WITH MANUSCRIPT RELEASE NO. 970, THE WHITE ESTATE BEGAN "RELEASING" ENTIRE LETTERS OR MANUSCRIPTS, SO FAR AS POSSIBLE, EVEN IF ONLY PARTICULAR PARAGRAPHS WERE REQUESTED.       COPY FOR THIS VOLUME HAS BEEN SENT TO THE PUBLISHER CAMERA-READY, WHICH MEANS THAT ANY TYPOGRAPHICAL MISTAKES OR OTHER INACCURACIES WHICH MAY APPEAR ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WHITE ESTATE, NOT THE PUBLISHER.       WE TAKE PLEASURE IN MAKING THESE MATERIALS AVAILABLE IN THIS FORM, AND TRUST THAT THE COUNSELS, WARNINGS, AND PRINCIPLES PUT FORTH BY THE AUTHOR WILL BRING A BLESSING TO EVERY READER.                                    THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE                                    WASHINGTON, D.C.  {16MR 0.1}
[16MR 0.2]     Table of Contents    A Word of Explanation    Manuscript Release                                                  Page          1186      Wrongdoing To Be Condemned; Righteousness To Be                  Exalted............................................. 1          1187      The Power of Angels; Cooperate With Christ in Doing                  His Work ........................................... 15          1188      Establishing a School at San Francisco; The Value of                  a Soul; Christ's Object Lessons to Provide                  Funds for Schools................................... 20          1189      High Praise for Site of Melrose Sanitarium; Appeal                  for Funds for the Sanitarium ....................... 26          1190      A Vision Received in Oswego, New York, January 26,                  1850 ............................................... 30          1191      The Church and the Gospel Commission ............... 36          1192      Progress of the Three Angels' Messages in                  Cooranbong; The Helpful Medical Ministry of Sara                  McEnterfer.......................................... 39          1193      An Appeal To Be Faithful Stewards of Money and Other                  Talents; Also to Follow Christ in Humility and                  Self-Denial; A New Believer Faces a Crisis over                  Sabbathkeeping ..................................... 45          1194      The Value of Health Reform in Our Homes and                  Institutions ....................................... 57          1195      By Deeds of Mercy Christians Are To Be God's Helping                  Hands............................................... 68          1196      Evangelism in Norwich, Connecticut, and Lynn,                  Massachusetts; Concern for Those Who Unsettle Faith                  in the Testimonies and Misinterpret the Scriptures . 76          1197      A Suggestion that Christ's Object Lessons be                  Used to Help Lift Debt from Schools; The Need for                  Improved Spirituality at Battle Creek; Christ's                  Humiliation in the Wilderness Temptation ........... 84          1198      The Teacher Sent from God........................... 89          1199      The Simplicity of Christ's Teaching................. 97          1200      The Need for Love in the Church, and An Appeal to                  Heed the Message to the Laodiceans ................. 100          1201      Christ's Mission to Earth........................... 115          1202      Diary Fragments--July to October, 1907 ............. 126          1203      SDA Institutions To Be Staffed by Talented Workers                  Who Are Seeking to Improve Themselves............... 136          1204      The Church in the Home ............................. 143          1205      Travels and Meetings in Oregon and Washington....... 149          1206      Selection of the School Land at Cooranbong ......... 152          1207      Opponents To Be Treated Courteously; Gifts From Men                  in High Places Not To Be Refused ................... 157          1208      A Dream of Angels, God's People, and Salvation ..... 171          1209      Counsels to our Colporteurs Regarding Carefulness in                  Diet ............................................... 173          1210      Statement on the Day and Hour of Christ's Coming ... 174          1211      Christ's Humiliation ............................... 180          1212      Beginning the Work at Washington, D.C.; Counsel on                  Home Life........................................... 185          1213      Each Follower of Christ is Called to Work; All Are                  to Copy Christ, the Pattern; Harmony to Prevail..... 188          1213-a    E.G. White Material Appearing in A. T. Jones:                  From 1888 to Apostasy, by George Knight.          1214      To the Church in Brother Hastings' Home............. 206          1215      Report on Meetings and Other Special Work in Oregon                  and the Washington Territory ....................... 210          1216      Experience Following the 1888 Minneapolis                  Conference; The Danger of Legalism; Emphasizing                  Religious Liberty................................... 212          1217      A Message of Comfort, Pointing to Christ our                  Righteousness....................................... 242          1218      Counsel to Provide Adequate Facilities for Water                  Treatments; Eliminate Use of Poisonous Drugs;                  Reforms Needed ..................................... 245          1219      The Marketplace and Cathedral in Colonge ........... 250          1220      Holding Meetings in Colonge; Dogged by Illness ..... 251          1221      Counsel to Sow Seeds of Faith, Not Seeds of                  Skepticism ......................................... 254          1222      The Wise and Unwise Use of Money ................... 256          1223      The Parable of the Ten Virgins ..................... 267          1224      The Church is the Bride of Christ................... 277          1225      Church Leaders to Respect One Another, and Work for                  Souls............................................... 278          1226      Giving Exposure to Differing Doctrinal Viewpoints;                  Disapproval of D. M. Canright's Actions............. 281          1227      The Use of Natural Remedies in the Treatment of                  Illnesses; Challenging the Church to Reach the                  Entire World with the Gospel ....................... 287          1228      Dependence on God................................... 295          1229      An Appeal to A Self-Centered Wife to Repent and                  Reform ............................................. 301          1230      Cooperation with God and Fellow Workers Necessary                  for Success in Fulfilling Gospel Commission......... 316          1231      The Vineyard ....................................... 328          1232      Health Teachings Not to Replace the Third Angel's                  Message............................................. 332          1233      Earnest Labor To Be Bestowed on the Erring ......... 338          1234      An Appeal to Evangelize the Iowa Conference......... 340          1235      Processed as Manuscript Release No. 1253.  {16MR 0.2}
[16MR 1.1]       MR No. 1186 - Wrongdoing to be Condemned; Righteousness to be Exalted         (Written from "Elmshaven," St. Helena, California, October 4, 1903, and sent to a number of leading workers.)  {16MR 1.1}
[16MR 1.2]          I have a message to bear to those who occupy responsible positions as physicians. My brethren, the Lord has committed to each of you a work which is plainly outlined in His Word.  {16MR 1.2}
[16MR 1.3]          Those who walk with God are prepared to call wrongdoing by its right name. Sin is sin, whether practiced by ministers, teachers, medical missionaries, or other workers in the Lord's service. Those who discern unChristlike traits in professed Christians occupying positions of responsibility must use great plainness of speech in pointing out these evils, instead of apparently continuing in fellowship with erring men because they are standing in high places. It is on account of the positions of trust that these unChristlike workers occupy that I am instructed to say to our physicians, Great plainness of speech is required. Those who, though occupying positions of grave responsibility, are Christians only in name are not to be sustained and upheld and strengthened by their brethren, for Satan works through the sinners in Zion to bring in strife and contention and difficulties, which make God's people a reproach and a shame to Christ Jesus.                                           -2-  {16MR 1.3}
[16MR 2.1]          The apostle Paul gives to Timothy a most solemn charge: "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; 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 4:1-5］.  {16MR 2.1}
[16MR 2.2]         "Sound doctrine" is Bible truth; standard truth for the time in which we live; truth that is always to be kept before the people; truth that is adapted to promote increased piety and devotion, confirming God's people in the most holy faith.  {16MR 2.2}
[16MR 2.3]          "Sound doctrine" means much to the receiver; and it means much, too, to the teacher, the minister of righteousness; for wherever the gospel is preached, every laborer, whatever his line of service may be, will be either true or untrue to his responsibility as the Lord's evangelist.  {16MR 2.3}
[16MR 2.4]         Gospel medical missionary workers, as faithful representatives of their Leader, are to bear a message from God. If among this class of workers there should be found those who are not sanctified through the truth; ［if there are］ those who are unable to work the works of truth and righteousness, who in word and act dishonor the truth and lower the standard that should always be elevated to represent the medical missionary work in its purity, then faithful work is to be done by God's ministers. Like Timothy, they are to "reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine."                                           -3-  {16MR 2.4}
[16MR 3.1]          All our medical workers are earnestly to use their capabilities in the right way, that there may go forth the impression that the ministry of the Word and the medical missionary work are, in reality, one united work. Some will need to be watched lest their natural propensities overrule, causing them to manifest self instead of the Christlikeness that should always be prominent. When such persons labor not in accordance with the will and way of God, when in business transactions they fail of elevating the gospel standard, their associates are not to keep silent; they are to strive to change the evil lest they become co-workers in that which will do great injury to the cause and work of God.  {16MR 3.1}
[16MR 3.2]          Every Christian is a standard-bearer of righteous principles. Let there be no lowering of the standard, no countenancing of wrong movements. It was while men slept that the enemy sowed tares among the wheat. It is the unwatchful, sleeping condition of God's servants that implicates them with their associates in guilt. The only way to escape being an unfaithful watchman is to watch and not allow to continue the evils that can be checked. To sustain by silence a work that God cannot approve is to abet Satan's work, and this results in the loss of souls. No one should be at ease until he has done all that it is possible for him to do to counterwork evil.  {16MR 3.2}
[16MR 3.3]          Let our physicians engage in fervent prayer and in the study of God's Word. Let every missionary be on guard, doing all in his power to counterwork evil, deceptive influences. If faithful work were done, even to a limited degree, it would tell on the side of right. If the senses were keen, quickened and illuminated by the Holy Spirit, wrongdoing would be met and counterworked before it found standing room. Thus many of the                                           -4-     objectionable devisings of men would be arrested, and the widespread influence of evil would be circumscribed.  {16MR 3.3}
[16MR 4.1]          When will faithful work be done to arrest the evils that ministers and medical missionaries have seen but have not corrected? The Lord now calls for decided action in order that the gospel medical missionary work shall not be entirely spoiled by the tares that the enemy has sown. Let none continue the work of leavening our institutions, our churches, and the world with the objectionable sentiments that have been coming in of late. Let not one wrong thing be passed by uncorrected. Christian medical missionary work is to bear the signature of God, not of man.  {16MR 4.1}
[16MR 4.2]          Oh, that every man who has been redeemed by the blood of Christ would disrobe himself of his earthly citizen's dress, and, for the sake of the Christian name, put on the robe of Christ's righteousness. Strange work has been done to bring honor to man, and not to God. For the sake of Christ, let matters be brought up to the Christian standard.  {16MR 4.2}
[16MR 4.3]          To lean upon the arm of the law is a disgrace to Christians; yet this evil has been brought in and cherished among the Lord's chosen people. Worldly principles have been stealthily introduced, until in practice many of our workers are becoming like the Laodiceans--half-hearted, because so much dependence is placed on lawyers and legal documents and agreements. Such a condition of things is abhorrent to God.  {16MR 4.3}
[16MR 4.4]          Nor will the Lord endorse the spirit that leads a man to engage in commerce in our institutions, after the manner of the world, and to make the laws of the land his defense. Yet the Lord has instructed me that this very spirit is being manifested by some who occupy positions as leaders. If they                                           -5-     continue to follow their own way, God will leave them in the hands of the enemy, that they may be spoiled either through success or through failure. Success will bring them to certain ruin.  {16MR 4.4}
[16MR 5.1]          The present spiritual condition of some of our church members who stand in high positions of responsibility, shows that in the future there must be a great change. God has no place in His mansions for lovers of deception, of fraud, of sin. In the beginning Satan prevailed on man to sin, and he is still carrying on his mischievous work. He puts forth efforts in our churches, and I call upon our people to be on their guard against him.  {16MR 5.1}
[16MR 5.2]          God calls for staunch, faithful workers who understand the truth and are sanctified through the truth. Our ministers, physicians, and teachers need to be converted anew, that they may be vessels unto honor. In every place Satan has his forces leagued together to counterwork the work of God. Those who give place to the subtle theories that the enemy seeks to introduce into minds do not regard sin as sinful. Those who set in motion an influence opposed to Christ are doing that which to undo will require a lifetime of Christian effort on the part of those who are standing on the platform of truth. The evil seed sown will spring up and produce a root of bitterness, whereby many shall be defiled. Wrong impressions will be made that it will seem impossible to efface.  {16MR 5.2}
[16MR 5.3]          He who says that which weakens the force of the principles of God's Word can never efface the impressions made by his words. God alone can undo the injurious effects of such words.  {16MR 5.3}
[16MR 5.4]          Could each one who proposes to be a believer in the message for this time multiply himself and his means a thousandfold, we as a people should                                             -6-     not be able by our good deeds to retrieve the losses we have sustained on account of our neglect of duty during the last 25 years. The guilt of the past is resting upon us, even upon all the camp of Israel. A complete reformation is now needed in all our institutions. We must arouse, and by the Lord's help strive to put away the evils now existing, and to redeem the time, if possible.  {16MR 5.4}
[16MR 6.1]          The spiritual life of God's people is being enfeebled by the spirit of centralization and commercialism. We are losing our distinguishing characteristics as Christians. The works of the enemy have been enthroned in many of our institutions, where business is done in accordance with worldly principles, which have come in through unconsecrated men. Great blindness of perception has been revealed. A thorough reformation must now take place.  {16MR 6.1}
[16MR 6.2]          Soul-Saving. "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time" ［Colossians 4:5］. Precious time has passed into eternity, unused in the Master's service. Men have been doing a work that the Lord has warned them not to do. The actions of the professed religious world are to be no criterion for those to whom God in His great mercy has given advanced light. We can see that the world is in a great moral conflict. Unwarned souls are perishing in their sins while many of our churches remain content to do little or nothing to let the full light of the gospel, the light of true medical missionary work, shine into the hearts of men and women, that they may behold the way to heaven. We are failing to gain access to souls.  {16MR 6.2}
[16MR 6.3]          Christ, the great Teacher, was accused of eating with publicans and sinners. He did eat with them, but it was for the purpose of letting the truth shine forth. His example, always high and noble and pure, was in                                         -7-     marked contrast with the example of the Pharisees, the priests, and the rulers of His day. They disregarded the work that He had commissioned them to do.  {16MR 6.3}
[16MR 7.1]          Christ met the people where they were--at the guest table, in the streets, by the lakeside, in the synagogues and the temple, and on the crowded thoroughfares of travel. In these places were found the multitudes who were willing to admit that they were sinners. In their hearts Christ could sow the seeds of truth; and after His resurrection and ascension these seeds, scattered in almost every place, sprang up under the teaching of the apostles, and in one day 5,000 believers were converted.  {16MR 7.1}
[16MR 7.2]          Just before His ascension, Jesus said to His disciples, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. 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 alway, even unto the end of the world" ［Matthew 28:18-20］.  {16MR 7.2}
[16MR 7.3]          This commission is ours. Not all have the same work to do, but to every man is given his work. To no one man is committed the whole work. No man is to exalt himself or any other man; for whatever man's position may be, he is not free from defects, and he should guard against self-exaltation, envy, jealousy, selfishness, covetousness.  {16MR 7.3}
[16MR 7.4]          "Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance; for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons" with God ［Colossians 3:23-25］.                                            -8-  {16MR 7.4}
[16MR 8.1]          God's Estimate of Men. In Heaven's sight, the standing of persons in the church is in no wise dependent on the estimation in which they are held by their fellow men. Their acceptance by God is dependent on their union with Christ, by whom alone they are enabled to do right, and to whom they are always amenable. Every moment they are accountable to God.  {16MR 8.1}
[16MR 8.2]          It matters not how high a position a man may occupy in the work of God, unless he is a follower of the meek and lowly Jesus he puts the Saviour to open shame. He may be a leader among his brethren, and he may be upheld and sustained in his course, but unless he is converted, unless he receives Christ as his counselor, making his confession of Him before believers and unbelievers, he can never win the crown of eternal life.  {16MR 8.2}
[16MR 8.3]          A Call to Watchfulness and Prayer. The time is at hand when the case of every soul will be decided. The Lord calls upon those who are truly converted to watch and pray; for the controversy between truth and error will increase in intensity. The Bible is to be the man of our counsel.  {16MR 8.3}
[16MR 8.4]          When our medical missionaries should have been wide-awake they were asleep; and consequently the enemy has established himself in the midst of them. Physicians have cherished lax principles, and have stooped to follow worldly methods. Their inferior piety has enfeebled the church and impaired its usefulness.  {16MR 8.4}
[16MR 8.5]          Many of those who should be standing as watchmen on the walls of Zion are Christians in name only; and when they should have been on their guard as men of God's appointment, protesting, counterworking, earnestly praying that the Lord God of heaven would work by His Holy Spirit to counteract the movements that were being made by men who trusted in the arm of flesh, they failed of doing their duty.                                            -9-  {16MR 8.5}
[16MR 9.1]          There is need of a most thorough work in our conferences. God is calling for missionaries who have not upon them the stamp of the specious deceptions of the enemy--missionaries who have not by agreement bound themselves to any other human agencies. To us, as God's chosen people, has been given special light. This light is constantly increasing, and is to shine forth through the gospel ministry and through gospel medical missionary workers.  {16MR 9.1}
[16MR 9.2]          Our Influence. No true physician or minister will feel that he is partially his own, and that he can do as he pleases. At the present time, some clear-sighted, clean-hearted men are almost neutral in their influence; but they cannot long remain in this position without losing ground spiritually. Unless they reflect the character of Christ Jesus, they will begin to reflect the character of the man of sin.  {16MR 9.2}
[16MR 9.3]          With the results of sin before them, why are not men fortified against the suggestions of the evil one? Will not our leading brethren keep God's word before them, and be diligent students of His will, that they may not fail as did Adam and Eve? Never should our God-given powers be used to hurt one of His children. Never should we become the agents of Satan to deceive others.  {16MR 9.3}
[16MR 9.4]          The masterly spirit of self, which many manifest, is abhorrent to God, for it leads to actions that savor of evil. If Satan once gains a place in the mind, not only will he strive to retain all the advantages he has gained, but he will seek to obtain full possession. He will use the person over whom he has gained an influence to influence others. The man whose mind is controlled by Satan cannot be used by God to communicate His grace. With such a man Christ cannot cooperate.                                            -10-  {16MR 9.4}
[16MR 10.1]          The deceived one becomes inflated with thoughts of his own importance. He is filled with zeal to accomplish some work that he regards as being great. Satan and his angels lead him on by putting into his mind pleasing and flattering suggestions. He unites in counsel with worldly associates, linking up with men who are not wise unto salvation. And while following the suggestions and methods of the enemy, he thinks that God is directing his mind.  {16MR 10.1}
[16MR 10.2]          Let no man be treated as lord and dictator over the gospel ministry or the gospel medical missionary work. The Lord is testing and proving everyone, to see if in humility men will perform the divine will, taking Christ for their counselor, carefully studying His character, and walking as He walked. To everyone who gives himself unreservedly to Christ is assigned a post where he may engage in acceptable service.  {16MR 10.2}
[16MR 10.3]          God's cause is now in need of the influence that protests against evil, and strives to counteract it--the influence that Christ has always demanded of His people. Let there be no delay, for the message that I am bearing is from God. While He has been calling upon His people to come out from the world, and to be separate and distinct, not touching that which is unclean, human agencies have been counterworking His work, by linking up with worldly men, cultivating the spirit of commerce, and depending on worldly lawyers and worldly methods. The Lord is sorely displeased with these men who have made themselves one with the world.  {16MR 10.3}
[16MR 10.4]          No one is without influence. Those who, in an effort to be neutral, manifest no positive hostility toward Christ and their brethren, may think that they are rendering a service to God, but such a thought is delusive.                                          -11-     Upon the minds of those who are endeavoring to stand in a neutral position, satanic agencies are working. The first act of selfishness opens the way for the enemy's forces to enter. Our only safety is in active service for Christ Jesus. He declares" "'Ye cannot serve God and mammon.' All your talents, all your capabilities, are Mine. I have entrusted you with gifts, which are to be put to the very best use as consecrated offerings to Me."  {16MR 10.4}
[16MR 11.1]          If every man who has influence could ascend some mount of vision from which he could behold all his works as Christ beholds them when He declares, "I know thy works"; if the laborer could trace from cause to effect every objectionable word and act, the sight would be more than he could bear.  {16MR 11.1}
[16MR 11.2]          My brother, when you have been tempted to cherish feelings of self-exaltation because of the thought that you were a great worker in God's cause; when, in accordance with your judgment, you have endeavored to gather in means and to appropriate it as if you had created it; when you have cherished a spirit of selfish ambition in different movements with which you were prominently connected; when you took pleasure in working out some special schemes that were pleasing to you--if at these times you could have seen the full results of the influence you were exerting, results for which you are responsible, you would have been appalled.  {16MR 11.2}
[16MR 11.3]          Consider these matters. Trace them from cause to effect. The influences set in operation by our words and deeds are likely many threads, which bind us in intimate relationship either with God or with the world, and which connect mind with mind, heart with heart. God is fully acquainted with the multitudinous effects of certain influences. Even at times when man is most sure that certain traits of his character are unobserved, there                                          -12-     are going forth influences that are a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death. As soon as those influences cease to be decidedly good, they are decidedly bad; and the longer evil influences are exerted, the greater swells the tide of evil; the greater is the number of souls led to perdition.  {16MR 11.3}
[16MR 12.1]          A Message of Warning and Mercy. Those who have sinned against great light are not left without a message of warning and mercy. God says to them: ［Revelation 3:15-22, quoted］.  {16MR 12.1}
[16MR 12.2]          This is the testimony borne concerning the church at Laodicea. This church had been faithfully instructed. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul wrote: "Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis."  {16MR 12.2}
[16MR 12.3]          Much excellent labor was bestowed upon the Laodicean church. To them was given the exhortation, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." But the church did not follow up the work begun by God's messengers. They heard, but they failed to appropriate the truth to themselves, and to carry out the instruction given them. The result that followed is the result always sure to follow the rejection of the Lord's warnings and entreaties.  {16MR 12.3}
[16MR 12.4]          In every age the Lord has sent messages to point out the right way; and just as surely as men have united in walking contrary to the plain word of God, so surely have they been used by Satan to carry out his purposes.                                          -13-  {16MR 12.4}
[16MR 13.1]          Some to whom the Lord has for years been sending messages, have clearly understood and have magnified every word of encouragement, but have treated as if they were of naught the cautions, the warnings, and the reproofs.  {16MR 13.1}
[16MR 13.2]          This self-satisfaction is to be dreaded. This is why the Jewish nation did not receive Christ. They rejected the Bible prophecies given in regard to His coming, and chose their own way, in accordance with their natural preferences. Their spiritual condition need not be portrayed by us; for Christ has clearly represented it to His servant John. The history of the Jews has been recorded for our admonition, that we should not follow their example of unbelief and worldliness.  {16MR 13.2}
[16MR 13.3]          Many are assimilating with the world, and leaving upon human minds the impression that the special messages of warning given in the fourteenth of Revelation, messages that have called us out from the world, are secondary to the medical missionary work. God calls upon those who have heard these messages, to gain an experience very different from that gained by the Jewish nation. He desires His people to come to their senses, and to make their lives an expression of genuine faith and spirituality.  {16MR 13.3}
[16MR 13.4]         The Need of a Reformation. A failure to reveal the truth in the daily life has resulted in lax views as to what constitutes the truth for this time. Because of this, there exists an inferior piety, by which the church is enfeebled and its usefulness impaired. Men and women have come to believe that they are partially their own; that they have a right to take themselves into their own hands, and to do as they please, following their own judgment, and planning to carry out their ideas as they may choose. Those who believe that they have this right are on losing ground.                                          -14-  {16MR 13.4}
[16MR 14.1]          In every health institution that has fallen into worldly practices, the Lord calls for a decided change. Let our workers now come out from the world, and be separate. There is to be a full understanding as to who is on the Lord's side. "He that is not with Me," said Christ, "is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad" ［Matthew 12:30］.  {16MR 14.1}
[16MR 14.2]          Let no one suppose that because a man is constantly busy he demonstrates his fidelity, for the tempter is constantly busy and is helping those who are endeavoring to labor in accordance with their own devisings. Idolatry of self, of my plans, my devisings, Christ looks upon with contempt.  {16MR 14.2}
[16MR 14.3]          We are not to do a particle less than it is in our power to do to advance Christ's kingdom. We are to labor in the spirit and manner in which He labored. He holds every man responsible for working in the right way. Only those who labor for the Master in a Christlike spirit and manner, because of their love for Him and their desire to please Him; only those who refuse to take to themselves any praise and glory will receive the approbation of Heaven--Ms 128, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 10, 1986. Entire letter.  {16MR 14.3}
[16MR 15.1]       MR No. 1187 - The Power of Angels; Cooperate with Christ in Doing His Work         (Written July 3, 1900, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, to G. A. Irwin.)  {16MR 15.1}
[16MR 15.2]          I send you copy of a letter written to Dr. Kellogg. I am at a loss to know how the doctor can think that he is responding to the last charge of Christ in his great enterprise in Chicago.  {16MR 15.2}
[16MR 15.3]          "The eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. 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 alway, even unto the end of the world" ［Matthew 28:16-20］.  {16MR 15.3}
[16MR 15.4]          Here is a specified work, given to the disciples to do. "All power (in the sense of authority), is given unto Me, as Mediator between God and man," Christ said. "Go, teach, bring into discipleship, all nations. Give them the knowledge of the truth of My gospel, which is founded on truth. Lead them to understand that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are heaven's loving, powerful agencies for the accomplishment of the work of representing God in the world. Lo, I am with you in this work, to guide, comfort, sanctify, and sustain you, to make you successful in awakening the attention of men, convincing them of sin, the transgression of My law, and turning their                                          -16-     transgression to obedience, leading them from darkness to light, from the power of Satan, which has been holding them in the bondage of sin, to the righteousness of God. I will be with you and all who succeed you, till the end of time, in the work of preaching the gospel."  {16MR 15.4}
[16MR 16.1]          The angels of God, who excel in wisdom and strength and in all efficiency, whether for judgment or mercy, fulfill their mission in the world. They are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. Those who are walking in the light of God's commandments are very precious in His sight. He says, "Touch not Mine anointed, and do My prophets no harm." In the last days Satan will use all his powers against God's people, to afflict, to distress, to discourage them, to cause them all the trouble he possibly can. Those who know the truth and yet unite with him in this work have lost their spiritual anointing. They are blinded by the sophistry of the enemy, and cannot see afar off. They have forgotten that they were purged from their old sins.  {16MR 16.1}
[16MR 16.2]          A single angel appeared to the Roman guard, on his mission from the heavenly courts, and lo, they lay as dead men. What made the Roman soldiers quake and tremble and fall as dead men to the ground? The power of God.  {16MR 16.2}
[16MR 16.3]          In the protection of His people God has caused His army so to deal with human powers that 185,000 men were slain in one night. The thirty-seventh chapter of Isaiah contains instruction of the highest value. Read the prayer that Hezekiah offered to the Lord. He received a threatening letter from the king of Assyria, which contained these words, "Thus shall ye speak to Hezekiah king of Judah, saying, Let not thy God, in whom thou trustest, deceive thee, saying, Jerusalem shall not be given into the hand of the king                                          -17-     of Assyria. Behold, thou hast heard what the kings of Assyria have done to all lands by destroying them utterly; and shalt thou be delivered?" ［verses 10, 11］.  {16MR 16.3}
[16MR 17.1]         Hezekiah took the letter, and went up to the house of God and spread it before the Lord, saying, "Now therefore, O Lord our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that Thou art the Lord, even Thou only" ［verse 20］.  {16MR 17.1}
[16MR 17.2]         And God said concerning the king of Assyria, "He shall not come into this city, nor shoot an arrow there, nor come before it with shields, nor cast a bank against it. By the way that he came, by the same shall he return, and shall not come into this city, saith the Lord. For I will defend this city, to save it for Mine own sake, for My servant David's sake. Then the angel of the Lord went forth, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred four score and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses" ［verses 33-36］.  {16MR 17.2}
[16MR 17.3]         Age, position, or influence cannot save one of us from sudden sickness and calamity if the Lord says, "It is done." Therefore let not those who have had the light of truth be presumptuous. In the midst of cherished enterprises the Lord may speak, and it will be done. It is the wisdom of minister and people to hold themselves always in a spiritual preparation for anything that may occur. Let all follow the example of Hezekiah. Let us pour out the soul in humiliation and fasting and prayer.  {16MR 17.3}
[16MR 17.4]          Let me warn all men who have stood, and those who still stand, in the light of truth, to search and understand the Scriptures, lest the mind shall become perverted and the spiritual perception clouded by their own inventions.                                          -18-     Let them fear lest they go on a warfare at their own charges and become a means of tempting others, tearing down that which they once built up, in order to complete their tower, which they are determined shall be built.  {16MR 17.4}
[16MR 18.1]          The Lord has given abundant evidence of the truthfulness of His promises and threatenings. His people may trust His word. Will they then, in the face of light and evidence, follow a course of their own choosing, independent of God's ordained agencies? Even good men need to be guarded on every hand, lest they shall become so elated over the blessings God has given them that the applause and praise from worldlings shall be as a stimulus for them to display their great wisdom and acquisitions.  {16MR 18.1}
[16MR 18.2]          The Lord sees, the Lord knows. He will certainly humble all such aspirations; for He hates pride and selfishness and covetousness. The more prosperous the work may be in itself, the less appropriate is it for men to exalt themselves, as though they were the ones who should be lifted up. Our trust must be in God. He has entrusted men with abilities and capabilities, that they may act a prominent part in His work. Let them take heed how they shall exalt themselves.  {16MR 18.2}
[16MR 18.3]          He who has given them talents that they may execute His will, that they may sustain His work and carry out His purposes by working above everything savoring of injustice and oppression, will be with them just as long as they yoke up with Christ, learning of Him His meekness and lowliness. But when a man takes himself and his associates into his own hands, he has departed from the way of the Lord. The Lord will let those who depart from righteous principles to bring in principles which He will not tolerate, feel His displeasure.                                          -19-  {16MR 18.3}
[16MR 19.1]          I address you and Elder Haskell in the name of the Lord. Make earnest petitions to God. Do your duty intelligently, humbly, decidedly, and undividedly.  {16MR 19.1}
[16MR 19.2]          The set time to favor Zion will soon come. God has provided men and means whereby His work shall be accomplished. He will not leave His people to shame, but will accomplish His work. His work will move just as He has ordained it to move. Our covenant with Christ unites with the majesty of an omnipotent King the gentleness and tenderness of a caretaking shepherd. Please read the forty-second chapter of Isaiah.  {16MR 19.2}
[16MR 19.3]          God desires men to understand the claims He has upon them. He will judge any man who shall interpose between his fellow men and their God, to lead them into paths not cast up for the ransomed. "Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world" ［Acts 15:18］. He has ordained that His work shall be presented before the world in distinct, holy, sacred lines. The kingdom of God cometh not with observation, but by the gentleness of the inspiration of His word, by the operation of His Spirit in the soul. His work in many places of the world would now be much farther advanced had not man interposed between the people and God, to do a work God has not appointed.--Letter 93, 1900.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 19.3}
[16MR 20.1]      MR No. 1188 - Establishing a School at San Fernando; the Value of a Soul; Christ's Object Lessons to Provide Funds for Schools         (Written September 12, 1902, at Los Angeles, California, to "My dear Sister Mary.")  {16MR 20.1}
[16MR 20.2]          Last Wednesday I left St. Helena for Los Angeles, accompanied by my son Willie, Clarence Crisler, Sara McEnterfer, and Maggie Hare, to attend the Southern California camp meeting. We spent Wednesday, September 10, in Oakland, and at 7:00 o'clock in the evening took the cars again. At 8:00 o'clock, September 11, the next morning, we reached Santa Barbara, where we spent the greater part of the day looking over the city to see if it would be a suitable place in which to establish a sanitarium and start a hygienic restaurant. We are starting these restaurants in many cities, that we may teach the people the value of a health-reform diet. No meat, tea, or coffee are served in our restaurants. The fare is wholesome and nourishing, and is made up of grains, vegetables, nuts, and fruits. We endeavor to demonstrate to those who come the advantage of a diet of this kind over a flesh diet.  {16MR 20.2}
[16MR 20.3]         These restaurants have met with great favor from the people of the cities in which they are established. In our restaurant in Los Angeles, 800 meals are served daily.  {16MR 20.3}
[16MR 20.4]          We left Santa Barbara at 3:30 in the afternoon, and reached Los Angeles at 8:00 that evening. We were driven at once to the house which                                        -21-     we were to occupy during the meeting. This is a furnished cottage belonging to one of our brethren here, who moved to the campground that I might be accommodated in his house during the meeting.  {16MR 20.4}
[16MR 21.1]          Friday morning, a two-seated buggy drove to the door to take us to San Fernando, a town 21 miles from Los Angeles, to see a property that about a year ago we advised the brethren to purchase for school purposes. Circumstances were so arranged, in the providence of God, that this property, consisting of buildings that cost $40,000, and 10 acres of land, was offered to our people for $10,000. The location is all that could be desired. The brethren wrote to me about the offer that had been made, and I told them to arrange at once for the purchase of the place. They did so, and have since been preparing the building for schoolwork. The school will open October 1, 1902.  {16MR 21.1}
[16MR 21.2]          On the trip to San Fernando, we saw much that was interesting. We drove through acres and acres of highly cultivated land, orange groves and orchards of various kinds of fruit. When we reached the place that our brethren have purchased, we were more than pleased with its appearance and location. Expensive buildings were erected there some years ago, the owners expecting that Fernando was about to become a center for tourists. But something swayed the tourists in another direction, and so it came about that these buildings, all ready for use, were offered to us almost as a gift.  {16MR 21.2}
[16MR 21.3]          Thousands upon thousands of people flock to southern California from all parts of the States, to spend the winter here. We are very desirous of getting our work in this part of the State well established,                                        -22-     that the message of present truth may be given to these people. I have an intense interest in this work. I greatly desire that the tourists coming to Los Angeles, Pasadena, San Diego, and to many other parts of southern California, shall hear the message of warning to prepare for the great day of the Lord, which is right upon us. "He that shall come will come, and will not tarry" ［Hebrews 10:37］.  {16MR 21.3}
[16MR 22.1]          We are looking for places on which to establish industrial schools. In charge of these schools we shall place carefully chosen teachers, who will teach the children and youth to use their capabilities in a way that will make them of use in the Lord's work. I am urging our people to establish our schools away from the congested cities, and to place in these schools faithful, consecrated teachers, who will make the Word of God the beginning and end of all the education given.  {16MR 22.1}
[16MR 22.2]          It is our purpose to prepare young men and young women to act as God's helping hand, receiving light from the Source of light, and imparting it to those who sit in darkness. It is time that the world was warned that the day of the Lord will surely come as a thief in the night. Men are ambitious for power. The world is stirred with strife. Everywhere there is discontentment. At this time, in a world filled with confusion and bloodshed, the message is to be proclaimed that soon, in power and great glory, the Prince of peace is to come.  {16MR 22.2}
[16MR 22.3]          The commission that Christ gave to His disciples is given also to us. "All power in heaven and in earth is given unto Me," He said. "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                                          -23-     all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Diligently and faithfully we are to work for the Master. In this warfare there is no release.  {16MR 22.3}
[16MR 23.1]          I am laboring diligently to write out the instruction that the Lord has given me. I write many hours each day. Often I begin writing at 1:00 o'clock in the morning. I keep my helpers, five in number, all busy. My memory is good, my mind is clear, and my voice has returned to me. For this I praise the Lord. After my last severe illness, my voice left me, and I feared that it would never return.  {16MR 23.1}
[16MR 23.2]          The last two Sabbaths before leaving for Los Angeles, I spoke at the St. Helena Sanitarium to a room full of most interested listeners. Every time I speak at this place, I feel the deep moving of the Spirit of God. There are new hearers present every time, for fresh patients are always coming to the institution. Among my hearers there are most intelligent men--physicians, lawyers, judges--and they are interested in the words that the Lord gives me to speak.  {16MR 23.2}
[16MR 23.3]          I have a deep interest in every soul, high and low, rich and poor. I feel to the very depths of my being the value of the human soul. It seems to me so terrible that one of those for whom Christ has given His life should perish. My heart yearns over sinners. I long to set in operation some means of saving them. All that I have and am I have given to my Saviour, for I am His, bought with a price. I would be His instrument to open ways whereby many shall hear the truth.  {16MR 23.3}
[16MR 23.4]          The salvation of human beings has cost too much to be passed over lightly and indifferently. I cannot do this. I offer myself to the Saviour a willing sacrifice, to be used for the saving of souls.                                         -24-  {16MR 23.4}
[16MR 24.1]          I am so thankful for the work that Christ's Object Lessons has accomplished and is still accomplishing. When this book was in preparation, I expected to use the means coming from the sale of this book in preparing and publishing several other books. But the Lord put it into my mind to give this book to our schools, to be used in freeing them from debt. I asked our publishing houses to unite with me in this gift by donating the expense of the publication. This they willingly agreed to do. A fund was raised to pay for the materials used in printing the book, and canvassers and people have sold the book without commission.  {16MR 24.1}
[16MR 24.2]          Thus the book has been circulated in all parts of the world. It has been received with great favor everywhere. Ministers of all denominations have written testimonials recommending it. The Lord has prepared the way for its reception so that no fewer than 200,000 have already been sold. The means thus raised has gone far toward freeing our schools from the debts that have been accumulating for many years.  {16MR 24.2}
[16MR 24.3]          Our publishing houses have printed 300,000 copies, free of cost, and these have been distributed to the different tract societies, to be sold by our people.  {16MR 24.3}
[16MR 24.4]          The Lord has made the sale of this book a means of teaching our people how to come in touch with those not of their faith, and how to impart to them a knowledge of the truth for this time. Many have been converted by reading this book.  {16MR 24.4}
[16MR 24.5]          I desire, while my life shall last, to do all in my power for the Master. I have a faithful band of workers. They are devoted to my work                                        -25-     and my interests, and I appreciate their help. I do not know how long my life may be spared. I am grateful to my heavenly Father for the strength and the blessings He gives me. I am so thankful that I can have a part in His work.  {16MR 24.5}
[16MR 25.1]          Let us, my dear sister, hold the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. Then, if we are not permitted to meet each other again in this life, we shall meet in the family of God when the redeemed are gathered home. "Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."  {16MR 25.1}
[16MR 25.2]          May the Lord bless you and the members of your family. That they may be among the blessed in the kingdom of God, is the highest good I can wish them. Heaven is worth everything to them. God forbid that they should give their attention to earthly and temporal things, and God have no place in their hearts. Heaven is worth lifelong, untiring effort.  {16MR 25.2}
[16MR 25.3]          But I must now close this letter. Be of good courage, my dear sister. Trust in the Lord. He is your Helper.--Letter 143, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 25.3}
[16MR 26.1]       MR No. 1189 - High Praise for Site of Melrose Sanitarium; Appeal for Funds for the Sanitarium         (Written December 22, 1904, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to "Dear Brother Gilbert Collins.")  {16MR 26.1}
[16MR 26.2]          We are home again, and I am in my own room, writing to you. I hoped to see you again while I was at Melrose, and was quite disappointed that I did not. I wanted very much to have another talk with you.  {16MR 26.2}
[16MR 26.3]         I spoke five times in public while I was at Melrose. The Lord strengthened me, and gave me a pointed testimony to bear that melted the hearts of those present. Those who bore the burden of the camp meeting were at times sorely tried. They had been passing through trials that had severely tested their courage and hopefulness. The Lord gave me a message for them and for all assembled. Many felt the power of God, and bore a decided testimony to the truth of the message.  {16MR 26.3}
[16MR 26.4]          From Melrose we went to the camp meeting at Middletown, where our first paper, under the name of Present Truth, was first published. I was strengthened to speak to the people on Sabbath and Sunday. A large number of people not of our faith were present and listened attentively. This was an important meeting, and I know that the Lord gave me His Holy Spirit, and helped me to speak. The other ministers present also bore a straight message, and much interest in regard to our faith was aroused.                                           -27-  {16MR 26.4}
[16MR 27.1]          I told those present at the meeting of the instruction God had given me regarding the way in which He had worked for His people by giving them the Melrose Sanitarium property for so reasonable a sum. The Lord certainly directed His people to that place. The sanitarium there is to act an important part in calling the attention of the people of Boston and the surrounding towns and villages to our people and the reasons of their faith. Decided evangelistic efforts are to be put forth in these places.  {16MR 27.1}
[16MR 27.2]          In one of the morning meetings I presented the light given me regarding the Melrose Sanitarium, that all prejudice against it might be cleared away from the minds of those who had been opposed to the removal of the sanitarium work from South Lancaster to Melrose. I spoke of the offer made to our brethren by rich people in South Lancaster to buy the sanitarium property there, and of their offer to give our brethren the sanitarium building if they would move it off the land. I spoke of the desirability of the Melrose property--four large buildings and forty acres of land, situated in the midst of a beautiful park--and the easy terms upon which it was secured. All the circumstances connected with this remarkable transaction, the sale of the South Lancaster property, the removal of the sanitarium building, and the purchase of the Melrose property, constitute an instructive lesson for our prayerful study.  {16MR 27.2}
[16MR 27.3]          Another building is greatly needed at Melrose, that suitable accommodations may be provided for the higher classes. And I appeal to you, Brother Collins, to help with your means in the erection of this building. Wealthy people come to the sanitarium and ask for a suite of rooms                                           -28-     with a private bathroom. They have been accustomed to this convenience, and they are willing to pay for it. We need the money of these wealthy people, and they need the advantages of the sanitarium, and we must provide the accommodations that will make them willing to come.  {16MR 27.3}
[16MR 28.1]          In all my travels I have never seen a more beautiful place for a sanitarium than the Melrose property. It was secured by the providence of God, and the sanitarium there may do a great work in healing the sick and in teaching them the gospel of salvation. If the instruction that God has given is followed, there will be brought into the truth through the instrumentality of this sanitarium, men and women who can engage in evangelistic work.  {16MR 28.1}
[16MR 28.2]          Brother Collins, those in charge of this institution need the help that you can give them now, just now. Time is passing. Put a portion of your means into this enterprise, and be assured that it is being used for the advancement of the work that God has appointed His people to do. I ask you to heed this call without delay. The Melrose Sanitarium must stand as a witness for the truth. There is aggressive work to be done. Agencies are to be set in operation that will counterwork the infidelity that is so rapidly increasing.  {16MR 28.2}
[16MR 28.3]          Please read the commission given by Christ to His disciples just before His ascension. While many professed Christians are bringing a reproach upon the cause of God and counterworking the work of Christ, we are to do all we possibly can to advance the work by consecrating our talents of means and influence to the Master's service. We cannot afford to neglect our God-given opportunity to lay up treasure in heaven                                           -29-     by doing all in our power to place the truth before those who know it not. If the church would seek to understand the great work to be done, if every member would become surcharged with the power of the Holy Spirit, they would have an efficiency that Satan and his angels could not resist.  {16MR 28.3}
[16MR 29.1]          The people of God are to arise and shine. They are to enter into Christ's joy by doing all they possibly can to save the souls perishing in sin. My brother, I entreat you to put your means into circulation in the work of soul-saving. Thus men and women will be converted who in their turn will convert others.  {16MR 29.1}
[16MR 29.2]          I leave these words with you, my dear brother, hoping and praying that you may gain precious victories in helping to advance the work of God. I thought you would have a special interest in the work of the Melrose Sanitarium, because it is so near you. I have confidence in Dr. Nicola and his wife. They are both doing a good work.  {16MR 29.2}
[16MR 29.3]          May God bless you, my brother. I hope soon to hear that you have acted your appointed part.--Letter 341, 1904.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 29.3}
[16MR 30.1]      MR No. 1190 - A Vision Received in Oswego, New York, January 26,1850         Last Sabbath evening the Lord gave me a view of many things, which I will now try to relate. I saw the people of God--some were dormant and stupid; they were but half awake, and did not realize the time we were living in. I saw that the man with the "dirt brush" had entered, and some were in danger of being swept away. I begged of Jesus to save them--to spare them a little longer and to lift them up so that they could get a sight of their situation before it should be forever too late. The angel said destruction is coming like a mighty whirlwind. I begged of the angel to pity, to save, those who were attached to their possessions and were not willing to cut loose from them and distribute them to speed the messengers on their way to feed the hungry sheep, who were dying for the want of spiritual food.  {16MR 30.1}
[16MR 30.2]          I could hardly bear the sight of the sheep dying for the want of saving, present truth, while some who professed to believe the present truth were holding on to their property and were letting them die, by withholding the necessary means to carry forward the work of God. As it was held up before me, the sight was too painful, and I begged of the angel to take it away, and remove the painful sight from me. I saw that when the cause of God called for their property, they were sorrowful, as the young man was who had great possessions, and who inquired what he                                          -31-     should do to inherit eternal life. I saw that very soon the overflowing scourge would pass over, and sweep their possessions all away; and then it will be too late to sacrifice earthly goods, and lay up treasure in heaven.  {16MR 30.2}
[16MR 31.1]         I then saw the glorious Redeemer, beautiful and lovely. ［I saw］ that He left the realms of glory and came to this dark and lonely world to give His precious life and die, the Just for the unjust. He bore the cruel mocking and scourging, and wore the plaited crown of thorns, and sweat great drops of blood, while the burden of the sins of the whole world were upon Him. The angel asked, "What for?" I saw it was for us; for our sins He bore all this, that by His precious blood He might redeem us unto God.  {16MR 31.1}
[16MR 31.2]          Then again was held up before me those who were not willing to sell their possessions to save one fainting, starving soul, while Jesus stands before the Father pleading His blood, His sufferings, and His death, for those souls, and while God's servants were waiting, ready to carry them the saving truth that they might be sealed with the seal of the living God; and yet it was hard for some who profess to believe the present truth to even do so little as to hand the messengers God's own money, that He had lent them to be stewards over.  {16MR 31.2}
[16MR 31.3]          Then the suffering Jesus--His sacrifice, and love so deep as to give His life for them--was again held up before me, and then the lives of those who profess to be His followers, who had this world's goods and counted it so great a thing to help on the cause of salvation. The angel said, "Can such enter heaven?" Another answered, "No, never!                                         -32-     never! never! Those who are not interested in His cause here below can never sing the song of redeeming love above." I saw that the quick work that God was doing on earth would soon be cut short in righteousness, and that the swift messengers must speed on their way. I heard the angel say, "Are all messengers? No! no! God's messengers have a message."  {16MR 31.3}
[16MR 32.1]          I saw that the cause of God had been hindered and dishonored by some going who had no message. Such will have to give an account to God for every dollar they have used in travelling where it was not their duty to go, for that money might have helped on the cause of God. And for the lack of that very means which has been wasted, souls have starved to death for the want of spiritual food that might have been given them by God's called and chosen messengers.  {16MR 32.1}
[16MR 32.2]          The mighty shaking has commenced, and is going on, and all will be shaken out who are not willing to take a bold and unyielding stand, and sacrifice for God and His cause. The angel said, "Think ye He will compel any to sacrifice and give up their possessions? No! no! It must be a freewill offering. It will take all to buy the field."  {16MR 32.2}
[16MR 32.3]          While viewing these things, the burden seemed too heavy to be borne. I felt that I could have given my life if it could be the means of helping any to see their awful situation. I saw that professed friends had wounded the cause. Again I was compelled to cry for God to spare His people, some of whom were fainting and dying.  {16MR 32.3}
[16MR 32.4]          Then I saw ［that］ the judgments of Almighty God were speedily coming. I begged of the angel to speak in his language to the people.                                      -33-     Said he, "All the thunders and lightnings of Mount Sinai cannot move those who will not be moved by the plain truths in the Word of God. Neither would an angel's message move or awake them." I saw that the rebels must and will be purged out. The angel said, "Get ready, get ready, get ready."  {16MR 32.4}
[16MR 33.1]          I saw that the judgments were just upon us, and that the trouble would soon be to this land, and that blood would flow in streams. The angel said,"It will soon be even to the horses' bridles." That was an awful time.  {16MR 33.1}
[16MR 33.2]          I saw that we must be willing to go alone, and that we must cut loose from everyone who will not walk godly in Christ Jesus. I saw that the unbelief of brother or sister, father or mother, husband, wife, or children, was no excuse for any, to hinder them from doing their duty; and that those will lose their souls if they seek to please their unbelieving friends more than God, and they will be counted unworthy to be partakers of Christ's glory.  {16MR 33.2}
[16MR 33.3]          I saw that Jesus was rejected by His own nation, and if Jesus suffered we must be partakers of His sufferings. Said the angel, "Cut clear, cut clear, cut clear from everything or anyone that hinders thy progress." I saw that the ties of nature between man and wife, parents and children, need not be severed. Still, those who believe God and His truth must obey God even if it displeased their nearest and dearest friend. I saw that there would be no chance to get ready after Jesus leaves the most holy place, therefore we must get right now, while there is a chance. Very soon it will be too late.                                        -34-  {16MR 33.3}
[16MR 34.1]          I saw that God's people must press together and not be too willing to see faults in each other, for where there is union there is strength. I saw that the people of God were generally too dull, too dormant and unbelieving. The angel said, "Watch, watch, watch." I saw a crown of glory laid up for those who make a covenant with God by sacrifice. I saw that a sacrifice would not increase but decrease and consume. I was then pointed to him who had defied the armies of Israel; that truth would overcome error; and that light would shine out of darkness.  {16MR 34.1}
[16MR 34.2]          I was then pointed to the beauty and loveliness of Jesus. Upon His head were crowns, a crown within a crown. His robe was whiter than the whitest white. No language can describe His glory and His exalted loveliness. All, all who keep the commandments of God, will enter in through the gates into the city and have right to the tree of life and ever be in the presence of that lovely Jesus, whose countenance shines brighter than the sun at noonday.  {16MR 34.2}
[16MR 34.3]          I then saw the Word of God, pure and unadulterated, and that we must answer for the way we received the truth proclaimed from that Word. I saw that it had been a hammer to break the flinty heart in pieces, and a fire to consume the dross and tin, that the heart might be pure and holy. I saw that the Apocrypha ［SEE MR. NO. 1148, "ELLEN G. WHITE AND THE APOCRYPHA."］ was the hidden book, and that the wise of these last days should understand it. I saw that the Bible was the standard Book, that will judge us at the last day. I saw that heaven would be cheap enough, and that nothing was too dear to sacrifice for Jesus, and that we must give all to enter the kingdom. I heard an angel say, "Think ye God will place His seal where there is an idol? No, no."                                          -35-  {16MR 34.3}
[16MR 35.1]         Then I was pointed to Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden. They partook of the forbidden tree, and then the flaming swords were placed around the tree of life, and they were driven out of the garden of Eden lest they should partake of the tree of life and be immortal sinners. I saw that the tree of life was to perpetuate immortality. I heard the angel say, "Who of the family of Adam have passed those flaming swords and partaken of that tree?" I heard another angel answer, "Not one of the family of Adam has passed those flaming swords and partaken of the tree of life; therefore there is not an immortal sinner. The soul that sinneth it shall die an everlasting death, a death that lasts forever, where there is no hope of a resurrection, and then the wrath of God will be appeased."  {16MR 35.1}
[16MR 35.2]         I then saw the holy city, and that we should rest in the city through the 1,000 years, and reign as kings and priests unto God. Then Jesus will descend upon the Mount of Olives, and the mount will part asunder and become a mighty plain for the Paradise of God to rest upon. The rest of the earth will not be cleansed until the wicked dead are raised and come up around the city at the end of the 1,000 years. Then fire will come down from God out of heaven and devour them, burn them up root and branch. Satan is the root, and his children are the branches. Then the same fire that will devour the wicked will purify the earth. I saw that the feet of the wicked would never desecrate the earth made new. All the immortality we now have is by faith in hope of immortality at the appearing of Christ.--Ms 4, 1850.     White Estate, Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 35.2}
[16MR 36.1]       MR No. 1191 - The Church and the Gospel Commission         Every Church Member to Help Fulfill the Gospel Commission. The work of God is aggressive. No one can stand in a neutral position and yet be a soldier in the Lord's army. God has commands for His people, and if they keep in close connection with Him, they will hear His voice and will keep in step with their Captain. They will go forward in the conflict to fight the battles of the Lord. But those who place themselves in an indifferent, non-committal position will gain no victories. We are to work by faith and not by sight, allowing God to direct the warfare. . . .  {16MR 36.1}
[16MR 36.2]          The church as a whole is responsible for the fulfillment of the sacred commission, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature," to those in the highways and those in the hedges. Every member of the church is held accountable in Christ's work. Every power of those who have come to a knowledge of the truth is to be enlisted. Reach to the heights; reach to the depths; there is no boundary. Everyone is to hear. Everyone is to receive light and truth, and transmit it to others. We are not half awake.--Ms 29, 1890, pp. 2, 10. (Diary entry.)                                           -37-  {16MR 36.2}
[16MR 37.1]          To Every Man God Has Given His Work. There is no such thing as a loveless Christian. He who is in unity with Christ, in word, in life, and action, bears the living testimony that he has the mind and Spirit of Christ. Those who are truly the followers of Christ love as brethren, and are the salt of the earth, the light of the world. Every true believer catches the bright beams from the Morning Star, and transmits the light to those who sit in darkness. Not only do they shine amid the darkness in their own neighborhoods, but as a church they go forth to regions beyond. The Lord expects every man to do his duty. Everyone who unites with the church is to be one with Christ, diffusing the bright beams of the Morning Star and becoming the light of the world. Christ and His people are to be co-partners in the great work of saving the world.  {16MR 37.1}
[16MR 37.2]          The churches have not been educated altogether as they should have been educated. They have been educated to depend upon the ministers to pray and to open the Scriptures to the people who assemble to worship God. God would have the people hear the voice of God, and go to work for the Master to become a blessing to the world. Thousands might be at work who are not ordained to preach the gospel, but are commissioned of Christ to do His work. To every man He has given his work.  {16MR 37.2}
[16MR 37.3]          If the love of God was a living, abiding element in the soul, there would be love among brethren, and many who have been indifferent to the great Teacher's commandment, who now bite and devour one another, would be convinced of their mistake, would work the works of Christ, and ［would be］ drawn into fellowship. . . .                                           -38-  {16MR 37.3}
[16MR 38.1]          Every Converted Soul to "Preach." To every converted soul He says, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." It is not necessary that the Lord should first sit in earthly legislative councils and inquire of those who think they must plan for His work, "Will you permit men whom I have chosen to unite with you in working in some part of My moral vineyard?" Christ was standing only a few steps from His heavenly throne when He gave His commission to His disciples, and included as missionaries all who should believe in His name. Jesus wants every minister to whom He has committed a sacred trust to remember His injunctions, to consider the vastness of His work, and to place the obligation of preaching the gospel to the world upon the large number to whom it belongs.  {16MR 38.1}
[16MR 38.2]          "Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem" ［Luke 24:46, 47］. The power of God was to go with those who proclaimed the gospel. If those who claim to have a living experience in the things of God had done their appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our world with power and great glory.--Letter 84, 1894, pp. 7-9. (Written Nov. 14, 1894, from "Norfolk Villa," Prospect Street, Granville NSW, to "Dear Children Edson and Emma.")     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986.  {16MR 38.2}
[16MR 39.1]       MR No. 1192 - Progress of the Three Angels' Messages in Cooranbong: The Helpful Medical Ministry of Sara McEnterfer            (Written at "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, June 17, 1898.)          We find that we have much to be thankful for. During the Week of Prayer we had very pleasant weather--cool mornings and nights, and beautiful, sunshiny days. We are very thankful to our heavenly Father that He has been with us of a truth.  {16MR 39.1}
[16MR 39.2]          Throughout the week we had all that we could do. The first Sabbath we had a full house. In the morning at 9:45 Sabbath school was held. One of the articles for the Week of Prayer was read. We thought it best to send horses and carriages to Dora Creek and Martinsville to bring up the women and children who could not come on foot. We also provided lunch for them, and while they waited between the services one read to them the articles prepared for the Week of Prayer.  {16MR 39.2}
[16MR 39.3]         At 3 p.m. the Lord gave me freedom to speak. I felt drawn out to speak particularly upon the necessity of doing missionary work in all the region round about. If we really believe the truth, the outward life will testify of it. We are anxious that our teachers and students shall have much of the Holy Spirit of God. Through the grace of God we may be just and pure and diligent in all our works in connection with our fellow men.  {16MR 39.3}
[16MR 39.4]          Notwithstanding there will be much to dishearten and sadden the soul because of bigotry and formalism and unbelief among those who should have faith, we can exclaim, "'Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure,                                           -40-     having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His'" ［2 Timothy 2:19］. The worse the situation appears, the more light and life we must have. We must cherish cheerfulness, and let the world know that we are reflecting the light of the Sun of Righteousness.  {16MR 39.4}
[16MR 40.1]          The carelessness of many, the example and influences of the world, the tendencies of the time to regard neither God nor man, is no excuse why those who believe the Word should grow lax, weak in faith, or indifferent in the discharge of the work to which they have been appointed. We have had the light, while many have not had the light regarding the binding claims of the fourth commandment. Our work must correspond with our faith. Circumstances must be mastered by our moral courage and faith in Christ Jesus. We are to pray in faith, looking heavenward, and saying, "I will not fail nor be discouraged."  {16MR 40.1}
[16MR 40.2]          The whole earth is to be lightened with the glory of the Lord. The pure in heart shall see God. It is those who are following the Lamb whithersoever He goeth that will receive power from that angel that came down from heaven "having great power." The first message is to be repeated proclaiming the second advent of Christ to our world. The second angel's message is to be repeated, "Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies" ［Revelation 18:2, 3］.                                              -41-  {16MR 40.2}
[16MR 41.1]          This prophecy will be fulfilled, and the earth will know that the Heavens do rule. Christ is coming with power and great glory. He will come with all the holy angels with Him. He will come with His own glory and with the glory of the Father. 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.  {16MR 41.1}
[16MR 41.2]          What a day that will be when the unsullied light will shine from His splendor, and Christ the Redeemer will be admired by all who have received Him. All who have served Him will catch the undimmed rays of the glory and brightness of the King in His majesty. In that day those who have been counted as the lowly ones will be the truly lofty.  {16MR 41.2}
[16MR 41.3]          All the means to sustain the work is unequal to the demand, yet a beginning has been made. Even in Cooranbong, since we have located here, we have felt the necessity of a hospital where the sick could be treated. Miss McEnterfer has been called on from far and near to do the work of nurse and physician. She has gone on horseback to places where a carriage could not go. At one place a little lad was badly scalded. His sufferings were great. His family knew not what to do for him. They could not sleep because of his agonizing cries.  {16MR 41.3}
[16MR 41.4]          Miss McEnterfer could not tell how the case would turn, but she worked tenderly and carefully, dressing the wounds. She made her applications of hot water compresses. What a wonderful restorer this is. After the first work that was essential to be done was finished, the little fellow slept, and the family slept. Day after day she treated this case. She prayed as well as worked, and through the blessing of the Lord the lad was perfectly restored. That was indeed a very grateful family.                                         -42-  {16MR 41.4}
[16MR 42.1]          In many such cases Miss McEnterfer has been called to relieve suffering. One lad, about ten years old, was running to chase a calf out of the yard, when he was thrown down, his foot slipping into a hole where there was a broken glass bottle. The glass cut a deep gash in his ankle. After ten days Miss McEnterfer was sent for. She did not at first think she could save the foot, but she prayed and worked. The greatest care was required in touching the foot. It was a terrible-looking wound. One, as soon as she looked at it, fainted away. She had come to assist Miss McEnterfer, but could not do anything.  {16MR 42.1}
[16MR 42.2]          After two days' treatment, Miss McEnterfer saw that the case needed more constant care, that special efforts must be put forth, and, after talking the matter over, we decided to take him to our home, having his aunt go with him to remain with him. We boarded the two; Sara treated the foot for ten days, and it was saved. The lad is now walking about perfectly well. We thank God that he was restored to soundness. When they asked what they should pay for this care, Sara told them that she did not do this work for money, but out of pity and compassion for suffering humanity. The relatives of this boy were touched by these things.  {16MR 42.2}
[16MR 42.3]          There have been other cases which I do not care to relate. In one case, through proper treatment, the efforts made brought a young man back from ［almost certain］ death. Great hopes were entertained of his recovery. Some who were with Miss McEnterfer, who lived near, were watching the case. The family consisted of the mother and the father and several brothers who were hard-drinking men. They were strictly charged to give him no brandy or rum. The young man was doing well, and the neighbors returned home.                                           -43-  {16MR 42.3}
[16MR 43.1]          When the doctor, whom they had sent for to Newcastle came, he said he was much better. The family asked if they should give him any liquor, and he said, "A very little." They gave him the drink, and it snapped the thread of life. Those drunken men knew not what they were about. The mother said that they poured the liquor down his throat, and he could not help himself; and she could do nothing to prevent them. He was the only member of the family of boys who would not use liquor. When the neighbors came in the morning, the mother said, "They have killed my son! They have killed my son!" Oh, how my heart ached as I thought of that murder in that house. The father and brothers had imbibed liquor until they knew not what they were about. This was considered a very affectionate family, but the rum demon took away their senses. They became as all men become when they sell their reason for strong drink.  {16MR 43.1}
[16MR 43.2]          Many such calls have been made, and all have been successfully treated with the exception of one woman who was in the agonies of death when help reached her.  {16MR 43.2}
[16MR 43.3]          Another case was that of Brother Thompson's little son, about nine years of age, who fell with his knee upon a stone. The knee became very large, and the lad was obliged to use a crutch. The doctors could do nothing to relieve the child. It had been in this condition for six months when the father brought the boy to Cooranbong. He came to work on the chapel in this place.  {16MR 43.3}
[16MR 43.4]          Sister McEnterfer looked at the knee, and she had compassion on the bright, promising lad. She took him in charge and gave him thorough treatment twice each day with bandages of flannel as hot as he could bear it.                                           -44-     This treatment helped him, and the swelling went down. Now the boy is as active as if he had never been injured. The mother and father and family of ten children were glad to know that their son and brother was not to remain a helpless cripple for life. We assure you that there is abundance to be done in medical missionary lines in this place.  {16MR 43.4}
[16MR 44.1]          We have no time to lose in the work of temperance, in the restoration of the poor outcasts, the unhappy, homeless ones. The Lord has a work for men and women to do. If Christ is abiding in the heart, He will sanctify the soul temple. Our hearts will be earnest, and full of divine sympathy. Whatever we do we will do as if in the full view of the whole universe of heaven. Men and women, you may with perfect consistency wear the badge that declares you medical missionaries. This means temperance in all things, and by it you make a silent, personal appeal.--Ms 91, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 44.1}
[16MR 45.1]       MR No. 1193 - An Appeal To Be Faithful Stewards of Money and Other Talents; Also to Follow Christ in Humility and Self-Denial; A New Believer Faces a Crisis over Sabbathkeeping         (Written November 22, 1897, from Stanmore, Sydney, NSW, to "Dear Brethren in California.")  {16MR 45.1}
[16MR 45.2]          I have confidence that you will help us at this time. We have had a special interest aroused in Stanmore, a beautiful suburb of Sydney. About twenty, I learn, have taken their stand to observe the Sabbath of the Lord, and many more are convicted. The people are deeply interested in the truth, and the important points of present truth are to them as a new revelation. The interest continues to grow, and those who embrace the truth go right to work for their friends, inviting them to come out to hear. More than this, they invite their neighbors and friends to come to their house. They then secure one of our ministers to give a Bible reading. These meetings are made very interesting.  {16MR 45.2}
[16MR 45.3]         We have secured a good house for the mission. Here the workers have a home. Instruction is given them to prepare them for the work. Elder Haskell and wife, Elder Starr and wife, Brother Baker, and Brother and Sister Wilson are here. Then there are several women workers, who are selling papers, tracts, and small books. Some days they do very well; then on other days not so well. But they have good average success.  {16MR 45.3}
[16MR 45.4]          All those newly come to the faith are enthusiastic over the idea of erecting a meetinghouse. Two who have just taken their stand on the Sabbath were expressing their desire for a church building. The husband said to the                                            -46-     wife, "What will you give?" She turned to him and said, "Husband, what will you give?" He said, "Let us each write on a slip of paper the sum we propose to give, and then exchange papers." They did this, and each had subscribed 5 pounds. They told Brother Starr that no doubt they would make it more than this, and since then they have doubled their subscription, each giving 10 pounds. Ten pounds from each is quite a donation. No one has been asked to do anything, and this is a surprising chapter in our experience.  {16MR 45.4}
[16MR 46.1]          Yesterday afternoon I talked to the people from Luke 12. This chapter is a lesson of great importance for all the sons and daughters of God. I told them at the close of my talk that we desired to build a church, and that we would accept all the help that was freely given. We should have to move out by faith. We did not design to erect a cathedral, but a plain building that we would call a tabernacle; one that would be in harmony with our faith. We could not conscientiously spend any of the Lord's money in needless adornment. We would have a neat structure. Skillful hands could make it very tasteful and appropriate. I told them that the building at Cooranbong was a commendable house of worship--neat, thoroughly well built and, in harmony with our faith, dedicated to God free from debt. The interest paid on a debt left on any house of worship is a great loss. We propose that this house shall be as a tabernacle for us. We are all pilgrims and strangers; our citizenship is above.  {16MR 46.1}
[16MR 46.2]          We would devote this tabernacle to educating and training not the elder members of the church alone, but the children and youth. They are to be taught not to live to please themselves, not to court praise, but to guard their hearts with perpetual vigilance and jealousy, lest they be estranged                                            -47-     from God. Teach them what it means to hunger and thirst after righteousness. These lessons must be given, else there will be a thirst for human appreciation and honor, which would be only injury to them should they receive it.  {16MR 46.2}
[16MR 47.1]          The Lord understands every sacrifice we make for Him to contribute to the necessities of His cause, without ostentation or display. Hide self in Jesus. Our great Teacher has plainly defined the way we should walk. The inward spiritual perception of the truth as it is in Jesus will never exalt the human agent in his own estimate of self. The Spirit of God leads the human heart to realize that sanctification of the Spirit brings self-abasement and lowliness.  {16MR 47.1}
[16MR 47.2]          Dec. 16. I rise to write at two o'clock. What gives the proper level to the human mind? It is the cross of Calvary. By looking unto Jesus, who is the Author and Finisher of our faith, all the desire for self-glorification is laid in the dust. There comes, as we see aright, a spirit of self-abasement that promotes lowliness and humbleness of mind. As we contemplate the cross, we are enabled to see the wonderful provision it has brought to every believer. God in Christ and Christ as God, if seen aright, will level human exaltation and pride. There will be no self-exaltation, but there will be true humility.  {16MR 47.2}
[16MR 47.3]          ［1 Corinthians 1:17-31; Galatians 6:14, quoted.］        The Creator of all worlds humbled Himself to human nature, and in human nature He took the place of meekness and lowliness. Any human being that cherishes highmindedness and self-trust because of self-sufficiency and                                            -48-     self-complacency, dishonors his Maker. Just as surely as he does this, he will be humbled. The Lord was rich in heaven's treasure, yet He for our sake became poor, that we through His poverty should be made rich. In the days of His humiliation, He clothed His divinity with humanity. Although He was the Majesty of heaven, He humbled Himself.  {16MR 47.3}
[16MR 48.1]          Christ devoted Himself to the salvation of the human race, and man should never, never, lift up his heart unto vanity. You who are possessed of worldly treasure are to become poor by following your Redeemer's example, devoting your substance to the advancement of the cause of God, and not to self-indulgence. Those who acquire wealth for the purpose of hoarding it, leave the curse of wealth to their children. It is a sin, an awful, soul-periling sin, for fathers and mothers to do this, and this sin extends to their posterity. Often the children spend their means in foolish extravagance, in riotous living, so that they become beggars. They know not the value of the inheritance they have squandered. Had their fathers and mothers set them a proper example, not in hoarding but in imparting their wealth, they would have laid up for themselves treasure in heaven, and received a return, even in this world, of peace and happiness, and in the future life eternal riches.  {16MR 48.1}
[16MR 48.2]          Many, many church members have sold themselves, soul, body, and spirit --to enjoyment? no; none can know what enjoyment is till they lay their accumulated treasure at the feet of Jesus--to covetousness and idolatry. Church members are to be true and faithful servants of the Lord. They are to use their entrusted capital to bless the needy in their churches. Churches are to be established where the people of God may worship Him. The                                            -49-     pews and seats are not to be rented. The wealthy are not to be honored above the poor. No distinction is to be made. "All ye are brethren."  {16MR 48.2}
[16MR 49.1]          Your property is a talent lent you by God to test you, to see if you will accept the character of Christ and be a subject of the kingdom of God. Thus you may come into possession of eternal riches. Your profession of Christianity is true if you follow Christ; worthless if you do not follow Him. Self-indulgence will not secure for any soul a citizenship in the better, even the heavenly, country. Those who will not be good and do good, as did their Master, those who covetously spend their all upon themselves, will lose the eternal riches. They will find no place for their selfish souls in the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for those who love Him.  {16MR 49.1}
[16MR 49.2]          The time is coming when every entrusted talent must be accounted for. The Lord has put into our keeping talents that we are to improve by wise investment. We are to increase and sustain the facilities for God's worship, not by sociables, fairs, raffles, games, lotteries, or any such means. When money is obtained in this way to sustain the church, it is because the church members are self-indulgent, gratifying pride and appetite by using wine, beer, liquor, and tobacco. Thousands of dollars are expended in needless things, while the poor are suffering for food and clothing, and the cause of God is left to makeshift to secure means to supply its numerous necessities.  {16MR 49.2}
[16MR 49.3]          God watches to see how His stewards fulfill their sacred trust, and when the cries of the widow and the fatherless come into His ears because of hunger and overwork, sickness and distress, it is written in the books of heaven that the Lord's stewards have embezzled His goods to gratify their                                            -50-     selfish passions, and the needy have been left to cry unto God because of the conduct of hardhearted men, who are lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God. Every man in this world is using God's money. Men would have been left to perish if Christ had not given His life for them. He is their Substitute, their Surety. He has given them a probation in which they may work out a perfect character by obedience to all God's commandments. Thus they show that they appreciate the great offering made, that through the Holy Spirit they might be converted and secure eternal riches by laying up their treasure in heaven, and not on earth.  {16MR 49.3}
[16MR 50.1]          When in the great day of God each one is apportioned his own reward, not many great, not many wealthy, not many of the now-extolled wise, will find mansions awaiting them. Christ says to them, "You in your lifetime had those things which you chose for your happiness. But when your riches and fame perished, it was found that you had not put your treasure beside the throne of God. You did not lay up your treasure in heaven, but you sought to employ it for your own gratification. Your insurance was not in the banks of heaven. The poor members of the royal family have been left in poverty, unaided by the means of God left in your hands with which to do good. You worked hard to glorify yourself, but the work which the Lord gave you to do, to love and serve Him, you refused to do. You had many disparaging remarks to make in regard to the poor and suffering, the homeless widows and the fatherless children, as though they were made of different material from you. You despised My poor, those who loved Him who for their sake and yours became poor that they and you might come into possession of eternal                                            -51-     riches. 'What shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul, or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?'"  {16MR 50.1}
[16MR 51.1]          I warn all to whom this letter may come that unless you follow where Christ leads the way, you will fall into Satan's snares and lose heaven. Your houses, your lands, are talents for which you are just as responsible to God as for any He has entrusted to you. You may bury your talent as did the slothful servant, but your business is to inquire of God and to watch for opportunities for doing good with your Lord's entrusted money. His cause is to be advanced. Souls are to be saved, and the question should not be, How much will this effort cost? Will it pay to venture? It will pay if one soul is rescued. That soul is estimated as of more value with God than a world.  {16MR 51.1}
[16MR 51.2]          All have talents entrusted to them according to their several ability, and the Lord expects these to be used to His name's glory. The warning must go to the world, whether men will hear or whether they will forbear. It may be that by your efforts a score of souls will be brought to the knowledge of Jesus Christ, and each become a worker for the salvation of others. No man should reckon his labor a failure if through his efforts one soul has his name registered in the book of life. Eternity will reveal many wonderful histories in connection with the efforts made, which at the time seemed to be fruitless.  {16MR 51.2}
[16MR 51.3]          Talents that are not needed are not bestowed. But every talent given has a place where it can be used. The single talent is needed. God has a place for it. There are channels everywhere through which benevolence may flow. Needs are constantly arising; missions are handicapped for want of                                            -52-     means. These must be abandoned unless God's people awake to the true state of things. Wait not until your death to make your will, but dispose of your means while you live. Great necessities will arise and means will be needed to supply them. Wherever there is an important field of labor which you see should be worked, there begin, your individual self, to work.  {16MR 51.3}
[16MR 52.1]          There are portions of the Lord's vineyard untilled because no means have been supplied. There are meetinghouses burdened with debt which should never have had a debt upon them if proper efforts had been made. To find means to put up a house of worship entirely free from debt is one of the greatest acts of benevolence that can be performed. The interest goes out yearly for an old debt, and no one feels the disgrace, but the hardest part is to redeem the blunder made at the first, to clear off the old debt, and stop the interest that is so difficult to raise. The Lord has need of the money He has lent to men to use in doing good.  {16MR 52.1}
[16MR 52.2]          Dec. 17. I rise at a quarter after two o'clock. I could not complete that which I commenced several days ago. The Lord is working for His people in Stanmore. Brother Sharp lost a situation in a prosperous firm, where he has worked for fourteen years. During all that time no fault was found with him. When Brother Sharp told one of the partners of his decision to keep the Sabbath, he said they could work it all right, and was disposed to give him the day. It is the custom to work only three hours on Saturday, but Brother Sharp promised to make up that time fully by working over hours.  {16MR 52.2}
[16MR 52.3]          But when the matter was brought before the associate partners, it was decided that they could not keep him if he kept Sabbath. They gave him one                                            -53-     month to decide the matter. As he was firm at the end of the month, he was asked to resign his situation, because they did not like to turn him off.  {16MR 52.3}
[16MR 53.1]          He said, "Have you not been pleased and satisfied with my work?"  {16MR 53.1}
[16MR 53.2]          "Perfectly," they said.  {16MR 53.2}
[16MR 53.3]          "Well, then, why should I act an untruth? I am very sorry to break connection with you, and I want to remain; but I must keep the Sabbath, and I could arrange to keep the Sabbath and do just as many hours work by giving more time. I certainly cannot resign." Then they discharged him.  {16MR 53.3}
[16MR 53.4]          When he rather abruptly told his wife, she was disappointed. Everything presented itself to her mind in the worst light. She saw her children suffering for want of food and without clothing. She was completely overcome. She was taken with a spasm, and for some time it was uncertain that she would live. But the Lord brought her through.  {16MR 53.4}
[16MR 53.5]          I had a long talk with this brother. He was a bookkeeper and solicitor for the firm, and has kept everything in order. He is also a musician. I at once saw that an opening must be made for him. His employer was watching him, as were also several others. It was a test question, and we thought he might engage as bookkeeper and solicitor for the health home. They had no money. He had received 3 pounds 10 shillings, per week, and had several children to keep.  {16MR 53.5}
[16MR 53.6]          December 14 I received a letter saying that Brother Sharp had been sent for to come to an important firm and talk with the proprietor. This man said that he had let his bookkeeper go for a holiday, and in his absence had attended to the books himself. While doing so he found that he credited himself with 15 pounds more per month than had his bookkeeper. He saw that                                            -54-     he had been dealt with dishonestly. He told Sharp that he had heard that he had lost his place not because of any failure on his part but because he wanted to keep the Sabbath, and added, "I said, 'That is the man I want. I can trust that man. He has a conscience, and fears God,'" "Well," he said, "you may have the Sabbath"; and I think he has the same pay that he received from the other firm.  {16MR 53.6}
[16MR 54.1]          So you see the hand of the Lord is in this. His former employer said to one who was favorable to the Sabbath, "I felt bad at having that man leave; he was a faithful workman. I do not know who I can get to fill his place, but I did not want one in my employ who would always be poking the Sabbath down our throats." Poor man! One day he will wish the Sabbath had not only been brought to his throat but that he had taken it in and eaten it as the word of God. The best recommendation that Brother Sharp could have was that he would not dishonor God by breaking the Sabbath.  {16MR 54.1}
[16MR 54.2]          The interest in Stanmore continues to be good. Brother Wilson writes that they are finding new Sabbathkeepers every week. The work is advancing, and now a lot must be secured on which to build a meetinghouse. It will cost a good deal in this locality to get a piece of land 100 by 100 feet, but there is no other way but to build. We must have a house of worship in eight or ten weeks. I want you, my brethren, to help me all you can, by taking my shares in the Healdsburg school, and thus release me. I want to invest in this missionary work. We must pay the workers, and we must pay for a lot for the church.  {16MR 54.2}
[16MR 54.3]          What will you do to help me? If the shares are sold to those who can buy them, and thus divided among the churches, each bearing a part, the load                                            -55-     can be easily lifted, and I shall have means to invest here. It must be done. The house of worship will serve for several suburbs, and I will do my best that it may be dedicated without a penny's debt upon it.  {16MR 54.3}
[16MR 55.1]          The interest in the camp meetings in Melbourne and Sydney has taken in the same features as did the proclamation of the Message in 1842. The interest is spreading far and wide. Those recently come to the truth will do what they can, for they have an enthusiasm that bears the signature of the Holy Spirit. My brethren, will you help me by taking the shares in the Healdsburg school? Will you also help me in the case of Brother Leininger? You are well acquainted with this matter, and can help me if you will. I am now carrying a debt of 1,000 pounds at five-and-a-half percent interest, besides 200 pounds hired for the school building. But notwithstanding I am responsible for this, I make my donation of 25 pounds toward the church in Stanmore. I have been walking by faith, and I shall continue to invest.  {16MR 55.1}
[16MR 55.2]          Soon after I came to this country, I hired $1,000 from a brother to commence the school in Melbourne; then $500 more. This is aside from the sums I have already mentioned. We could not get means, and I walked out by faith. This $1500 ought to be returned to this brother, who would, if he had it, use it in other places.  {16MR 55.2}
[16MR 55.3]          I want you to tell our people about the Scott case, and the case of Brother Leininger, and see what can be done for him. I must be released, that I may have means to open up new fields. The cities of Newcastle and Maitland, twenty miles from Cooranbong, are calling for labor. We must have means to start the work. Much canvassing has been done in these places, but                                             -56-     we have been waiting until the time should come when we could take hold of the work, and keep at it until these places are fully worked.  {16MR 55.3}
[16MR 56.1]          Then there are large cities in Queensland calling for help and workers. But we have not had the means in the treasury to keep the workers paid. All round in these countries are cities that need to be entered. But the lack of means prevents it. I submit this matter to you. Forty have now commenced keeping the Sabbath in Stanmore, and still the interest is widespread. I believe we shall have a church of one hundred souls.--Letter 20, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 56.1}
[16MR 57.1]       MR No. 1194 - The Value of Health Reform in Our Homes and Institutions          (Written August 5, 1892, from North Fitzroy, to Dr. J. H. Kellogg.)          All that you have written in your last letter I read with great interest. That which you say in regard to the matter of physicians having professional badges, I fully endorse. Christian physicians need no badge except that of Christianity. The use of drugs is not in accordance with God's plan. Physicians should understand how to treat the sick through the use of nature's remedies. Pure air, pure water, healthful exercise, should be employed in the treatment of the sick.  {16MR 57.1}
[16MR 57.2]          On special occasions a great deal has been said in regard to the violation of the laws of health through indulgence of pernicious habits. But though a few have been burdened to speak of these things, many of the shepherds of the flock have failed to give plain warnings to those who were under their charge, who were ruining themselves through evil habits. They have not educated the ignorant, aroused the careless and inattentive to a sense of their responsibility to properly care for the body, which is the temple of the Holy Ghost. As a consequence of criminal neglect many have defiled themselves, and have imperiled their physical, mental, and moral being, and have brought upon themselves sickness, suffering, and death.  {16MR 57.2}
[16MR 57.3]          We have duties to perform toward all those with whom we associate, and those who claim to be Christ's delegated representatives are to watch for souls, knowing that they must give an account. Christ manifested a deep interest in suffering humanity. He was ever touched with human woe, and His                                             -58-     true witnesses are to work as He worked. They are not to be heedless in regard to the important principles of health and life. The true minister is to educate and discipline himself, and to obtain knowledge as to how to keep himself in health. Then he will not be merely a novice, but an imparter of the knowledge which he has searched out and put into practical effect.  {16MR 57.3}
[16MR 58.1]          We are sorry to say that there are those who have barricaded themselves with their prejudices; they cling to their own habits and customs and practices, and persistently use their influence against health reform. By this class those who would follow the light God has given, are called narrow, bigoted, and fanatical. And many who hear them have not the moral courage to stand in defense of that which they know to be true and right. They know that a large class do not care to be reproved concerning their perverted appetites and ruinous indulgences. They do not wish to be stirred up on these points.  {16MR 58.1}
[16MR 58.2]          But shall we be silent? The sinner does not wish to have facts presented to him that condemn his practices, for he must either resist the pleadings of God through the human agent, or surrender his way and will to the ways and will of God. But although he does not desire to be warned, the work of warning goes on, that those who are spiritually sick, poor, blind, and naked, may be aroused to their condition. As we warn the spiritually lost, so continuous efforts must be put forth for the salvation of the slaves of appetite, and passion, and overwork.  {16MR 58.2}
[16MR 58.3]          Many indulge in unhealthful practices until the physical vitality is undermined, and the mental and moral powers are enfeebled. When they fall a prey to disease they resort to drugs, and if these afford them temporary                                             -59-     relief, they seem to be satisfied to continue in transgression. They do not bring their habits and practices in review to see what is wrong, and correct the evils by removing the causes. As the drugs are a mere stimulant, after a time they realize that they are in a worse condition than before they used the remedies. To use drugs while continuing evil habits, is certainly inconsistent, and greatly dishonors God by dishonoring the body which He has made. Yet for all this, stimulants and drugs continue to be prescribed and freely used by human beings, while the hurtful indulgences that produced the disease are not discarded. They use tea, coffee, tobacco, opium, wine, beer, and other stimulants and give to nature a false support.  {16MR 58.3}
[16MR 59.1]          In the recovery of health, nature calls for our cooperation. We are to bring our habits of life into harmony with right principles; but if we continue to eat and drink and dress and work in violation of her laws, the time will surely come when the skill of the whole medical profession will not avail to restore us to health, or even to preserve life. Those who claim to be reformers, to be Bible Christians, above all others should eat and drink and work for the glory of God.  {16MR 59.1}
[16MR 59.2]          Those who are shepherds of the flock should impress upon the people the importance of acting upon right principles in eating, drinking, and dressing. They should warn the people to forsake every practice, restrain every appetite that endangers health and life. No teacher of truth should feel that his education is completed till he has studied the laws of health, and knows the bearing of right practices on the spiritual life. He should be qualified to speak to the people intelligently in regard to these things, and to set them an example that will give force to his words.                                             -60-  {16MR 59.2}
[16MR 60.1]          The teaching of correct habits is a part of the work of the gospel minister, and the minister will find many opportunities of instructing those with whom he comes in contact. As he visits from house to house, he should seek to understand the needs of the people, presenting right principles and giving instruction as to what is for their best good. To those who have a meager diet, he should suggest additions, and to those who live extravagantly, who load their tables with unnecessary and hurtful dishes, rich cakes, pastry and condiments, he should present the diet that is essential for health and conducive to spirituality.  {16MR 60.1}
[16MR 60.2]          Every organ has its function, and our Creator has pledged Himself to keep our organs in a healthful condition if we will obey the laws implanted in our nature. The laws governing the physical nature are as truly divine in their origin and character as the laws of the ten commandments. Man is fearfully and wonderfully made; for Jehovah has inscribed His law by His own mighty hand on every part of the physical structure. Many are sick who might be well if they would but cooperate with God, surrendering soul, body, and spirit to His control. For in order to have health, we must keep ourselves in harmony with God's law. To have clean hands and a pure heart is to have peace and contentment of mind, and this is conducive to health.  {16MR 60.2}
[16MR 60.3]          "Ye are not your own; ye are bought with a price, therefore glorify God in your body and your spirit which are His." In view of this fact, should not the principles of truth so transform the character of professed Christians that they should live as seeing Him who is invisible? This is the way that all those who are professing godliness should live. In every place they should act as the representatives of Jesus, knowing that an influence                                            -61-     is going forth from them that will affect others. "Ye are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men."  {16MR 60.3}
[16MR 61.1]          Those who would be ensamples of self-denial, of cross bearing, of piety, of single-hearted devotion to God, will have to look well to their habits and their ways, lest by their works they contradict their faith and through their inconsistencies become a positive hindrance to others. They should constantly watch lest they lose confidence in themselves. When light and grace are imparted by the Lord, but not appreciated by those whom He would bless, they become self-indulgent, and please perverted appetite, and gratify passion. Moral force often resisted will finally lose its power to control, and self-respect is lost and confidence in God is shaken. The backslider hesitates to lay claim to the precious promises of the gospel, for he knows that every promise is fulfilled upon conditions, and that he has failed to meet the conditions. The Holy Spirit is grieved, and the rebellious one is left in the darkness that he has chosen.  {16MR 61.1}
[16MR 61.2]          Great light has been shining upon our pathway, not to be hidden under a bushel or under a bed. Through unjust business transactions and indulgence of passion, the light of the Christian burns dim. But God has given the light to be set high above sensuality in thought or action. Many lights burn low and go out for the want of the oil of grace. But let the Christian's life shine forth in clear, steady rays, illuminating the surrounding darkness. We cannot grow in grace until we purify our souls by obeying the truth. Obedience to the truth includes obedience to physical law.  {16MR 61.2}
[16MR 61.3]          Many transgress physical law, and seemingly pass on uninjured; but is it so? In truth God has spoken, "That which ye sow, ye shall also reap."                                             -62-     Disease of such a character will come upon the transgressor that he will be forced to admit that he is reaping the result of previous habits, which have weakened his power of resistance. When our churches plant their feet firmly upon the principles of health reform, and respect the physical ［laws］ which God hath instituted, they will stand where God will give them His grace, and will make them an influence for good upon the community in which they move.  {16MR 61.3}
[16MR 62.1]         Christ said, "I sanctify Myself that they also may be sanctified." Those who follow His example will be men of power. They will be "strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might." Ignorance in regard to the subject of health and purity is sinful, and yet we are far behind the light that has been given. The strange abandonment of principles which should have a vital connection with physical health, is simply appalling. Instead of seeking for more knowledge on this subject, some seem to desire to stop every crevice through which light might come to them.  {16MR 62.1}
[16MR 62.2]          Parents have backslidden, and have instituted a warfare against health reform. Mothers suffer their children to eat irregularly and to dress unhealthfully, and through indulgence in unwholesome diet they are educating them for more pernicious things. Children and youth should not be underfed in the least degree; they should have an abundance of healthful food; but this does not mean that it is proper to place before them rich cakes and pastries. They should have the best of exercise, and the best food, for these have an important bearing upon the condition of the mental and moral power. A proper, wholesome diet will be one of the means whereby healthful digestion may be preserved.                                             -63-  {16MR 62.2}
[16MR 63.1]          Students should eat to live, not live to eat. Those who indulge in overeating will never develop into patient, deep-thinking students. Let the diet be simple, and after the meal let an hour's rest be taken in order that they may resume their studies with safety. By heeding this precaution students can accomplish more in one hour than they could in six through its neglect.  {16MR 63.1}
[16MR 63.2]          We have seen those who advocated health reform who made grave mistakes in the preparation of their food. Some prepared porridge for every meal, and insisted upon the students partaking of it in the school, or, when in charge of a family, compel the children to eat of this dish. But soft food is not always the best food for all persons. Some children have been forced by their parents to eat porridge when they loathed the very sight of it, and have been told that unless they ate the porridge, they could have neither fruit nor any other dish on the table. Such treatment will not help the children to understand the principles of health reform. That which is wholesome food for some is unpalatable and unwholesome for others. Why is it necessary to make a certain dish a staple article of diet when it is not grateful to the taste or beneficial to health? Why not vary the provision, and make a healthful and pleasant change? It is not just or wise to compel anyone to eat that which is distasteful.  {16MR 63.2}
[16MR 63.3]         Everything upon the table should be prepared in a way that will make it enjoyable. The table is not a place where rebellion should be cultivated in the children by some unreasonable course pursued by the parents. The whole family should eat with gladness, with gratitude, remembering that those who love and obey God will partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb in the kingdom of God, and Jesus Himself will serve them.                                             -64-  {16MR 63.3}
[16MR 64.1]          Let our institutions guard against employing those who are not skillful in the preparation of food. To prepare dishes that will recommend health reform requires tact and knowledge. There are some who are called good cooks who understand only how to prepare meat and vegetables and the general round of diet used in the world. But we need cooks who are educated in hygienic methods, so that they can prepare dishes that will be both palatable and wholesome. There is a great dearth of cooks of this character, and I know that many of our most precious, able men have died because of improper diet. There was placed upon their tables hot saleratus biscuits, and dishes of a similar character. The students in our schools should be educated so that they can prepare food in a tasteful, healthful manner. They should know how to make good, sweet, thoroughly baked bread; but it is not essential that they understand how to make a great variety of cake and be able to prepare knickknacks to tempt the appetite.  {16MR 64.1}
[16MR 64.2]          The science of cooking is an essential science in practical life, and this science must be taught in such a way that the poorer classes can be benefited. Simple articles of diet should be prepared in a simple manner and yet be found all the more palatable and wholesome because of their simplicity. In Australia the people depend almost solely on baker's bread, and meat is used at breakfast, dinner, and supper. So baker's bread, meat, fruits, and vegetables generally compose the diet of the people. Now, if the health reform diet is presented to them in such a way that they think it will cost more money, time, and labor than the diet to which they are accustomed, I fear we shall make very poor headway in correcting their habits. What we need here is the labor of persons who have a knowledge of practical                                             -65-     and domestic economy, who can instruct as to how to prepare a simple, nutritious, palatable diet for the common people.  {16MR 64.2}
[16MR 65.1]         Those who are employed as teachers should become intelligent in regard to the philosophy of health, that they may know how to preserve their own health, and to help others. Through the overloading of digestive organs the brain is made to suffer. When a great variety of food is taken into the stomach at one meal, the result is that there is confusion of thought, inability to retain ideas, or to understand instruction. Many teachers and pupils, for this cause, feel that they are overworked. But their overwork was caused by the unnecessary burden of food which was placed upon the stomach, and which taxed the entire forces of the system. When teachers are in this condition they are in danger of making unwise decisions, which do much harm. Through the overloading of the digestive organs, the teacher becomes dyspeptic, and manifests impatience toward the pupils.  {16MR 65.1}
[16MR 65.2]          If there is any institution on the face of the earth where the principles of health reform should be practiced, it is in a college boarding house or a sanitarium. If the diet of students and teachers is composed largely of meat, their health will suffer in a disastrous way. A gross diet will dull the comprehension and set the animal passions into activity. The animal nature will struggle for victory over the moral and spiritual nature.  {16MR 65.2}
[16MR 65.3]          Professional men cannot afford to disregard the laws of their own being, for it will not only injure themselves but do injustice to those who are placed in their care. Physicians are guardians of the sick, pledged before God to make the most of their God-given ability to meet the responsibility placed upon them. Every talent entrusted should be guarded as a                                            -66-     precious treasure. To use up all the strength we have, and leave nothing from which to draw in times of emergency, is the height of folly. Matters will be forced upon the attention unexpectedly which cannot be set aside, and unless the physician has complete control of himself he will make serious blunders, which he can never remedy. When the physical power is lowered, self is more likely to exhibit itself, and through an unadvised word or an impatient manner souls may be turned aside from the path of right.  {16MR 65.3}
[16MR 66.1]          Physicians and teachers should ever be upon their guards, and students should not be stuffed and crowded in their studies in such a way as to leave no time for the study of the Bible or meditation and prayer. The great Teacher can prepare minds and hearts by His Holy Spirit for the highest kind of attainment.  {16MR 66.1}
[16MR 66.2]          In selecting teachers for our schools we should use every precaution, knowing that it is as solemn a matter as selecting men for the ministry. Let wise men who can discern character make the selection, choosing those who are calm and kind, who have the love of God in their hearts, for in every sense teachers are to be missionaries. Their course of action, like that of teachers in the Sabbath school, should tend to the winning of their pupils to Jesus. If teachers have not love in their hearts, they will give a wrong mold to the character of their pupils. Kindness and love will induce obedience where arbitrary authority, strict rules, and an overbearing, commanding manner will work utter failure in the management of pupils.  {16MR 66.2}
[16MR 66.3]          Christian consistency should be manifested toward your children in the home and in the church, in a pleasant, courteous manner. To place over                                            -67-     young children in a church school teachers who are proud and unloving, is wicked. A teacher of this stamp will do more harm to those who are just developing character than all the influence of one of a different character can counteract. If the teacher is not submissive to God, and has not love for the children over whom he presides, he should be dismissed. Or if he shows partiality to those who please his fancy and manifests indifference to those who are less attractive, to those who are restless and nervous, he should not be employed, for the result of his work will be a loss of souls to Christ.  {16MR 66.3}
[16MR 67.1]          Jesus came to seek and save that which was lost, but teachers do not always follow His example. They do not manifest love and forbearance to the very ones who most need it. Do not place teachers over the young who have no managing ability, for their efforts will tend to disorganization. Those who have mental resources and physical energies, who are well balanced by the grace of God, and can bring all their qualifications into active, practical use, relying wholly upon God, can be a power for good in our schools. The influence of this class will be as lasting as eternity.--Letter 19, 1892.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 1, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 67.1}
[16MR 68.1]       MR No. 1195 - By Deeds of Mercy Christians are to be God's Helping Hands         New Believers Need Temporal Help. The families we have helped to the camp meeting are not a cheap class of people, but intelligent. One brother is the elder of the church at Prospect; another has had a good business, but has met with reverses. These families must receive help all the time until they can get employment. Dollars and dollars I have to expend to provide food for the hungry, and clothing for those too poor to buy. But they are God's property; they have newly come to the faith; they are God's chosen children.--Letter 42, 1894. (Written to H. W. Kellogg, from Ashfield, NSW, Oct. 24, 1894.)  {16MR 68.1}
[16MR 68.2]          New Believers Require Follow-up Work. I do not think it can be your duty to go to Europe now. The state of the cause is such that all the help we can get is needed.  {16MR 68.2}
[16MR 68.3]          I am now writing upon the great mistakes made in extending our labors where we cannot look after it, and having a feverish unrest to create new interests and leave the people already raised up to die for want of help. This is the case all over the different States. I tell you, there must be more visiting the churches and caring for those already raised up, strengthening the things that are ready to die. While churches everywhere are in such suffering need, one cannot be spared.--Letter 1, 1879. (Written to S. N. Haskell, from Denison, Texas, Jan. 27, 1879.)                                             -69-  {16MR 68.3}
[16MR 69.1]          More Workers Needed to Spread Light. Willie, your heart would ache to look upon this vast field in Texas with only one preacher and calls coming in from every direction for help. I tell you that God could use hundreds of young men if they would only give themselves to the work to labor humbly in God. Oh, I do feel that we should appoint one day in a month for fasting and prayer for the Lord of the harvest to raise up men who shall go into the field and sow the seeds of truth. What can be done? My soul is stirred to its very depths. So many are in darkness, yet longing for light. They are not satisfied with their present condition. They are pleading for preachers to come. They hear the Word gladly but the moral darkness is so great one or two discourses are shedding merely a glimmer of light.  {16MR 69.1}
[16MR 69.2]          There are needed not only ministers but those who can act as missionaries--men and women of good understanding, of moral worth with moral backbone, who can circulate around among the people and shed light, precious light, everywhere.--Letter 15, 1879. (Written to W. C. and Mary White, from Denison, Texas, Jan. 28, 1879.)  {16MR 69.2}
[16MR 69.3]          The Value of Hospitality. Yesterday it all opened before me that in this very line of hospitality I have been repeatedly shown that we can unite the people with us, and can have twofold influence over them. This was unfolded before me in the first experience in this work, many years back, and we have ever linked our interest with humanity.--Letter 135, 1894. (Written to W. C. White, from Granville, NSW, Aug. 6, 1894.)  {16MR 69.3}
[16MR 69.4]          Cannot Pass By the Needy. We cannot with our wills sway back the wave of poverty which is sweeping over this country; but just as far as the Lord                                             -70-     shall provide us with means, we shall break every yoke and let the oppressed go free. We cannot look upon our people, and see them in distress, and yet, like the priest and Levite, pass by on the other side.--Letter 41, 1895. (Written to J. H. Kellogg, from Granville, NSW, Oct. 25, 1895.)  {16MR 69.4}
[16MR 70.1]         Pure Religion Revealed in Deeds of Mercy. I cannot sleep after half past two o'clock. I wish to speak to my brethren who occupy positions of trust. As God's husbandry you are invested with the responsibility of acting in His stead, as His helping hand. Those who are placed in positions of trust must have the authority of action, but they are never to use this authority as a power to refuse help to the needy and helpless. It is never to be exercised to discourage or depress one struggling soul. Let those to whom have been given positions of influence ever remember that God desires them to carry out the mind of Christ, who, by creation and redemption, is the owner of all men. Just as long as a man is imbued with the Spirit of Christ, he is registered in the books of heaven as a co-partner with God. He is God's helping hand. As the disciples received bread from the hands of the Saviour to give to the people, so he receives divine grace to impart to those in need. And in the distribution, the gift is increased.  {16MR 70.1}
[16MR 70.2]          I wish we could appreciate more fully the value of the lesson taught by the miracle of feeding the five thousand. He who makes it his lifework to labor together with God, not apart from Him, is carrying out the purposes of Christ. It is only such who are fit to be entrusted with the work of dealing with human minds. Those who are not partakers of the divine nature cannot properly estimate the value of the human soul. They do not share in                                       -71-     Christ's deep, earnest longing for the souls which cost such an immense price. They have not a personal piety. They cannot be trusted to work in Christ's lines, to lift up, not to tear down; to encourage, not to depress; to restore, not to mar and deface by their own imperfection. They are not safe, accurate judges of the necessities of the soul. They have not the pure, unselfish Spirit of Christ, and therefore they are not qualified to judge of human merit in cases that present peculiar difficulties.  {16MR 70.2}
[16MR 71.1]          By the great law of God man is bound up with his fellow man. To the answer given by the lawyer: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself," Christ said, "Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live."  {16MR 71.1}
[16MR 71.2]          In these few words are laid down the terms of eternal life. True godliness is measured by the work done. Profession is nothing; position is nothing; a character like the character of Christ is the evidence we are to bear that God has sent His Son into the world. Those who profess to be Christians, yet do not act as Christ would were He in their place, greatly injure the cause of God. They misrepresent their Saviour, and are standing under false colors.  {16MR 71.2}
[16MR 71.3]          The true disciple, in whose heart Christ abides, shows forth to the world Christ's love for humanity. He is God's helping hand. The glow of spiritual health thrills his whole being as he receives from the Saviour grace to give to others. This is medical missionary work. Its performance heals the wounds inflicted upon disordered human nature by the one who was once a covering cherub but who through self-exaltation lost his high and                                           -72-     holy estate, and took up a warfare against God and man. By his subtlety he led human beings into the pit of degradation, and it cost the life of the Son of God to redeem them. Christ gave His life to save every sinner. He is the light and life of men. He came as a mighty Physician, a great Medical Missionary, to heal the wounds sin had made in the human family. His mighty healing power sends a glow of spiritual health into the soul.  {16MR 71.3}
[16MR 72.1]          Pure and undefiled religion is not a sentiment, but a doing of works of love and mercy. This religion is necessary to health and happiness. It enters the polluted soul-temple, and with a scourge drives out the sinful intruder. Taking the throne, it consecrates all by its presence, illuminating the heart with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. It opens the windows of the soul heavenward, letting in the sunshine of God's love. With it comes serenity and composure. Physical, mental, and moral strength increase, because the atmosphere of heaven, as a living, active agency, fills the soul. Christ is formed within, the hope of glory.  {16MR 72.1}
[16MR 72.2]          God calls upon us to show, by the exercise of true piety, that we are under divine enlightenment. When those connected with the service of God center their hopes on Jesus, a change will be seen in their deportment. Supreme love for God and unselfish love for their fellow men will place them on vantage ground.  {16MR 72.2}
[16MR 72.3]          The gospel is good tidings of great joy. Its promises bring light to the soul and shine forth as light to the world. Therefore Christ says to those who have received the gospel, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."                                      -73-  {16MR 72.3}
[16MR 73.1]         Again, He illustrates the living reality of a Christian life by the saving properties of salt. "Ye are the salt of the earth," He says, "but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted?" Solemn question! If the saving principles of truth are not exemplified by professing Christians, what benefit does the world derive from their lives? When salt has lost its savor, "it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men."  {16MR 73.1}
[16MR 73.2]          When Christians do not reveal Christ, of what value are they? Are they not, like savorless salt, "good for nothing"? But when they reveal in their lives the saving properties of the truth, poor, sin-hardened souls are not left to perish in corruption. God's works are seen, for the living principles of righteousness cannot be hidden. The gospel acted is like salt which contains all its savor. It is powerful in the saving of souls.  {16MR 73.2}
[16MR 73.3]          Christ inculcates the value of obedience, saying, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. 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. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." Is it not best for us to keep the commandments, so that through us God can reveal His power? If all God's people were obeying His commandments, they would indeed be lights in the world.  {16MR 73.3}
[16MR 73.4]          God's promises to the obedient are "good tidings of great joy." They are gladdening to the humble, contrite soul. The life of the true Christian is radiant with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. If men and                                         -74-     women would act as the Lords helping hand, doing deeds of love and kindness, uplifting the oppressed, rescuing those ready to perish, the glory of the Lord would be their rereward. Then they would not send thousands of miles to learn from human beings their duty. They would call, and the Lord would answer, "Here am I." They would turn to the One close beside them, who has given them the promise, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."  {16MR 73.4}
[16MR 74.1]          Look, thirsty, bewildered souls! Can ye not see the fountain of life opened for the weary, wayworn traveler? Can ye not hear the voice of mercy as she beckons to you, saying, "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters"? "Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." The waters of this fountain contain medical properties which will heal spiritual and physical infirmities. All are invited to wash away their pollution in this fountain. Drink deeply from the fountain opened for Judah and Jerusalem. Then you can take the refreshing cup to parched, fainting souls.  {16MR 74.1}
[16MR 74.2]          Christ said of His work, "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn." Notice--you are not to comfort only the few whom you are inclined to regard with favor, but all that mourn, all who apply to you for help and relief; and more, you are to search for the needy. Job says, "The cause that I knew not, I searched out." He did not wait to be urged, and then turn away, saying, "I will not help him."                                           -75-  {16MR 74.2}
[16MR 75.1]          "To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified."  {16MR 75.1}
[16MR 75.2]          Wake up, wake up, my brethren and sisters. You must do the work that Christ did when He was upon this earth. Remember that you may act as God's helping hand in opening the prison doors to those that are bound. Wonderful is the work that God desires to accomplish through His servants, that His name may constantly be glorified. He is waiting to work through His people. Those who are willing to be used will obtain a rich experience, an experience of the goodness of God.  {16MR 75.2}
[16MR 75.3]          Of those who act as His helping hand the Lord says, "Ye shall be named the Priests of the Lord; men shall call you the ministers of our God." ［Isaiah 61:6-11; 62:2, 3, quoted.］  {16MR 75.3}
[16MR 75.4]         Shall we not try to crowd all the goodness and love and compassion we can into our lives, that these words may be said of us?--Letter 7, 1901. (Written to "Brethren Who Occupy Positions of Trust," from St. Helena, California, Jan. 17, 1901. Entire Letter.)     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. June 5, 1986  {16MR 75.4}
[16MR 76.1]       MR No. 1196 - Evangelism in Norwich, Connecticut, And Lynn, Massachusetts; Concern for Those Who Unsettle Faith in the Testimonies And Misinterpret the Scriptures         (Written December 6, 1890 (after the Sabbath), from Lynn, Massachusetts, to "Dear Children, Willie, Edson, and Emma.")  {16MR 76.1}
[16MR 76.2]          I have just come from the hall where the little company assemble to worship on the Sabbath. There were about eighty present. I spoke from John 14:15: "If ye love Me, keep My commandments." I had much freedom in speaking, then we had a social meeting and thirty-eight testimonies were borne. The older members did not take the time, but gave opportunity for those who had more recently come to the faith. I was much pleased to see the readiness to bear testimony and to see and feel the good spirit which prevailed. It was indeed a precious season to all our souls. I was just as sure that the presence of Jesus was with us as if I could see Him in person. The Lord blessed His people. There is a goodly number of intelligent, noble-minded souls who have embraced the truth and are made to feel what it means to deny self and lift the cross and follow Jesus.  {16MR 76.2}
[16MR 76.3]         An entire family have embraced the truth--father, mother, and four children. One is married, the other three are not married. This Burnham is a cousin to Edwin Burnham, who was a most talented minister preaching in 1843 and 1844. He is the one who said he felt better after he had given the law a good run. He said the commandments were dead and buried and did not deserve a gravestone. He said it was an old, bloody, thunder-and-lightning law, a curse to man, a curse to all who kept it.                                          -77-  {16MR 76.3}
[16MR 77.1]          It is a critical time now with many. There are a number in the valley of decision, right upon the point of taking their stand. One is an overseer in the shoe manufacturing establishment. He has a family. He is a man of ability, but as soon as he takes his position then he can no more keep his place, and his wife is a bitter opposer. Oh, may the Lord help these poor souls. I think we must pray more for these persons, convinced but who see the cross and dare not lift it, for to do so would take away the support, and they have families. They know the truth and feel deeply, but dare not venture.  {16MR 77.1}
[16MR 77.2]          One of the Burnham girls has been a dressmaker, or rather the cutter of dresses, having many women in her establishment for whom she prepared work. She made forty dollars per week, but now she cannot obtain a situation. She would be glad to go to Battle Creek to school, but has not the means. The question may arise, If she has had the chance to earn so much, why is she destitute now? Her father was a wealthy man of business, but lost all his money. He might have taken the bankrupt law, but decided he could not do this, and if he did he would not be an honest man. He gave up everything but his wife. Had a little property in a house. It took part of this to settle the debts, and he stands before God as an honest man, but stripped of everything. He came down from one hundred thousand dollars to nothing.  {16MR 77.2}
[16MR 77.3]          The daughter's wages have gone to support the family and to pay the debt on the home. She says if she had means she would go to Battle Creek and learn to be a worker in the cause of God. She is passing through a tremendous struggle, but all the family spoke today, earnest and wholehearted. There are so many influences to draw away from heavenly realities to the                                         -78-     earthly that my soul trembles with apprehension for those who see the truth and have not faith that they dare venture to obedience. Oh, that the compassionate Redeemer may be to those dear souls a present help in every time of need and they ［may］ have grace to sing, "Jesus, I my cross have taken, all to leave and follow Thee."  {16MR 77.3}
[16MR 78.1]          I never saw Elder Fifield appear as well as now. Certainly he has success in arousing an interest. He feels the burden of souls on this occasion. He reins them up to a decision and then he says, I weep with sorrow of soul as I see the difficulties that obstruct their way. If anyone feels the love of souls and is brought in interested connection with these souls who long to obey and do not have faith to venture, it will cause soul agony.  {16MR 78.1}
[16MR 78.2]          My heart is stirred within me. I want to say to the dressmaker who has taken her position, I will help you to go to Battle Creek and learn all you can, and see if some way will not open for her. One is a school teacher. She is not in the best of health and may have to leave her school. Another is an artist and has an excellent situation in the city, and can keep the Sabbath. If I had money, I know what I would do--I would help young men and women of talent to qualify them to become workers in the cause of God. But my hands are bound. I can do nothing, and this grieves me to the heart. This is a hard place for those who want to keep the Sabbath.  {16MR 78.2}
[16MR 78.3]          Dr. Neil's brother has taken his position firmly on the Sabbath. He spoke today. A good work has commenced here, and I hope it will be ripened off, and this is the reason I left Norwich, for it was a critical time for the interest here while the sheaves are being gathered.                                          -79-  {16MR 78.3}
[16MR 79.1]          Brother Robinson and Farman and Brother Whitters were left at Norwich. They were willing I should come, greatly desired I should be here, and yet felt that it was a pity I could not be at Norwich over another Sabbath. I spoke five times, speaking three evenings and on Sabbath and Sunday. Wednesday night I was to speak. There were not many out. It snowed all forenoon, then at noon it began to rain, and towards night it just poured in torrents, and the walks were icy and very slippery. I had not far to go to get to the meeting, but I had to cross ditches, and the water and slush were over my rubbers, but I meant to be at the meeting. I related some of my earlier experiences in connection with the work and cause of God, and it was thought the meeting did much good.  {16MR 79.1}
[16MR 79.2]          Quite a number have embraced the truth in Norwich, who have not been converted. They are self-important, wealthy, and unteachable, especially the A family. Brother A and his son B are in Battle Creek, and I hope that the meetings there will do these men good. As far as belief in the Testimonies is concerned, I do not think they have any faith in them. I hope something will settle these men in this part of the work, for it would be a wonderful blessing to the church.  {16MR 79.2}
[16MR 79.3]          We met a very intelligent young man, a son of Father A, who is altogether filled with the idea that no one is quite as smart as himself. He has been studying the messages in Revelation, and he thinks he has discovered wonderful light. But it is ［not］ that wonderful light which will flash forth all along the pathway till the end of time; ［it is a］ theory that tears away and takes the vitals out of all the past experience in the                                          -80-     messages. To see such a youth, of a babe's experience, turning away the pillars of our faith seems just terrible. Brother Robinson gave him a chance to speak out all he had to say and then give them a chance to think of it and answer the matter. Our brethren will now present our true position without making any particular drive on him.  {16MR 79.3}
[16MR 80.1]          He says he wrote to Elder Smith, and Elder Smith said he would answer him, but he has not said a word to him, for the subject was too deep for him. Now if Elder Smith keeps silent he will say he has something he ［Smith］ cannot answer. He must not keep silent. He must say something. I talked of the experience we had in 1843 and 1844 and, as did John, I declared the things I had seen and heard and my hands had handled of the way of life we know to be truth. Those who had no experience in this are not the ones to be proper judges of it.  {16MR 80.1}
[16MR 80.2]          The enemy has made his masterly efforts to unsettle the faith of our own people in the Testimonies, and when these errors come in they claim to prove all the positions by the Bible, but they misinterpret the Scriptures. They make bold assertions, as did Elder Canright, and misapply the prophecies and the Scriptures to prove falsehood. And, after men have done their work in weakening the confidence of our churches in the Testimonies, they have torn away the barrier, that unbelief in the truth shall become widespread, and there is no voice to be lifted up to stay the force of error.  {16MR 80.2}
[16MR 80.3]          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. They will claim Scripture as their evidence, and deceptions of Satan in every form will prevail.                                      -81-  {16MR 80.3}
[16MR 81.1]          I know that Elder Smith and Elder Butler and Morrison and Nicola have been doing a work in their blindness that they will not wish to meet in the judgment. ［WITHIN THE NEXT THREE YEARS (1890-1893) ALL FOUR OF THESE MEN MADE CONFESSION OF THEIR WRONG COURSE AND ACCEPTED THE LIGHT ON CHRIST'S RIGHTEOUSNESS PRESENTED AT MINNEAPOLIS. SEE A. V. OLSON, THIRTEEN CRISIS YEARS, PP. 87-119.］ I feel thankful to the Lord I have peace with Jesus Christ. I have the power of His Holy Spirit as I speak to the people at Norwich. The prejudice was swept away from many minds, and I know the Lord gave messages for them and the testimony of the Spirit of God cut its way through everything like prejudice and unbelief. But the brother so intent on his new light did not come to hear me but once.  {16MR 81.1}
[16MR 81.2]         I slept last night about ten hours; praise the Lord, praise His holy name! I believe He will give me strength and grace. I am making my home with Sister Ellen Warfe, one of the number, a kind family. We have things here convenient and pleasant. I shall go to Danvers Wednesday. I have been so deeply interested in John, chapters 14, 15, 16, and 17, that I am writing on the subject. I have written twelve pages today upon John 14, for fear I should have the force of the subject wear away from my mind. This will come in Life of Christ. I have in all forty pages written.  {16MR 81.2}
[16MR 81.3]          I am glad I attended both these meetings in Norwich and in Lynn. My testimony was greatly needed. I do not feel all the time that those who have known me and known the work that the Lord has given me to do, are seeking to counteract my labors in order that men and women who have not the least experience in connection with me or my work should not have faith. I                                           -82-     expect they will have prejudice. They will not all believe, but their doubts and unbelief cannot bring guilt upon themselves as can the doubts and unbelief of those who have known my going out and coming in, who have had the evidence of the Holy Spirit testifying to the messages God has given me, to treat them with such comparative indifference because they reprove their course of action and do not agree with their ideas. This looks to me like speaking against and denying the Holy Spirit.  {16MR 81.3}
[16MR 82.1]          I have no liberty with such men. They are without excuse. They have seen and been acquainted with men who joined hand to hand in dissimulating, in doubt, and to strengthen unbelief. They have seen just where these men have gone, yet they are traveling in the same path, repeating the same course of action, and the result will be the same.  {16MR 82.1}
[16MR 82.2]          I have loved Brother Smith next to my own husband and children, because he has had a part in the work for so many years. I have highly esteemed Elder Butler. But these men have left me alone--these men, to whom the Lord has spoken several times that they should stand united with my husband and myself in closest union till the close of time. They have caused me such sadness and grief of spirit as I cannot describe. I felt my husband's death, oh, how keenly God alone knows, but I have felt the cruel course of these men toward the work of God He has given me to do, more keenly than the death of my husband.  {16MR 82.2}
[16MR 82.3]          I have sorrow in my heart continually on their account because they will not, cannot, be saved in their present attitude. They persistently hold to the course of wrong they in their blindness have taken, and until they shall see and confess their errors they stand in no better place before God than other ministers who have resisted the Spirit of God and done despite to the Spirit of grace. I know their position perfectly. It is kept before me in                                        -83-     many ways, until the only relief I can get is to keep away from Battle Creek where the influence of these things is prevailing and active. May the Lord help me to move wisely.--Letter 109, 1890.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington D.C. June 5, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 82.3}
[16MR 84.1]       MR No. 1197 - A Suggestion That Christ's Object Lessons be Used to Help Lift Debt from Schools; The Need for Improved Spirituality at Battle Creek; Christ's Humiliation in the Wilderness Temptation         (Written in November, 1899, from Maitland, NSW, to "Dear Brethren Irwin and Haskell.")  {16MR 84.1}
[16MR 84.2]          I have some things upon my mind which I must communicate to you. I will state the matter as well as I can. I have thought much, "How can I help the school in Battle Creek, and help to wipe out the large debt?" It came to me that the only way I could do ［it］ was to make a gift of the book soon to be issued, The Parables. I wish this book to be used in the interests of all our schools.  {16MR 84.2}
[16MR 84.3]         I will require no royalty if our printing office in Battle Creek will find the material and do the work of printing and binding the book. Others can give the illustrations, and those who canvass for the work can act their part by taking a smaller commission. The conference has pledged the interest on the debt, and this will help in the proposition I have made.  {16MR 84.3}
[16MR 84.4]          We will all share in the act of benevolence, and help the schools to help themselves out of their embarrassment. If we will all harmonize in this work, the Lord will be pleased, and the ones who act a part the Lord will bless. If the Review and Herald ［will］ find the material and print and bind the book free of cost, they will be doing no more than they would have done had they given the interest on the debt.                                          -85-  {16MR 84.4}
[16MR 85.1]          I have not time to write much, for the mail leaves this morning. I awakened at half past twelve o'clock, and am now writing to you. I have not the faculty of stating the matter regarding the book as precisely as I would like, but you can understand me, I hope. The Pacific Press would act a part in behalf of the Healdsburg school and the great whole proportionately. The Echo Office would also do its part. There should be a general work of benevolence done, that we may accomplish the most in helping our schools.  {16MR 85.1}
[16MR 85.2]          I will give the manuscript of the book as my portion. This, I understand, is now waiting for my last reading of some of the last chapters. And in order to relieve the situation of the conference, I will cut down my wages to fifteen dollars. This is all I can do in this line; for I am at the present time paying interest on several hundred pounds in this country and several hundred pounds in America, as the books will show.  {16MR 85.2}
[16MR 85.3]          Now, my brethren, will you consider this proposition, and see what the Review and Herald will do, and what the Pacific Press will do, and what the canvassers will do in reducing their commission? Will you see if you cannot secure donations of illustrations that will make the book attractive and saleable without great cost? Can you see light in this? Let me know if you will do your best to accomplish this transaction.  {16MR 85.3}
[16MR 85.4]          My heart is deeply stirred in regard to the debt upon our schools all over the world. This state of things should not exist. Will you unite with me in creating something that will change this order of things? In the name of the Lord, do something, and do it now. Arouse the people to do something in regard to these school debts.  {16MR 85.4}
[16MR 85.5]          Would it not be the best thing we could do to sell the large school building in Battle Creek, and take the money to establish buildings free                                          -86-     from debt where can be had the advantages of land for manual labor? Thus the students could work on the same plans that we are trying to work on here. We think that if this were done, it would be the first step in heeding the message given for families to get out of Battle Creek into a more healthful location and a more spiritual atmosphere. There are altogether too many interests in Battle Creek. But this matter needs to be handled with great prudence and much wisdom. The Lord is to be our Counselor in all the movements made.  {16MR 85.5}
[16MR 86.1]          We greatly desire to see the spiritual atmosphere in Battle Creek changed for the better. Decided changes need to be made in the church, for her lack of moral power and spiritual efficiency is to be lamented. What can heal the church? What can create a pure and holy sentiment in all our institutions in Battle Creek? We need to begin at the very first principles of willing obedience to God's holy law. An outward observance of the Sabbath will not save the soul. The principles interwoven with every one of the ten commandments are to be honored and obeyed in the individual, practical life. The law, God requires, shall be written on the tablets of every soul.  {16MR 86.1}
[16MR 86.2]          In what consisted the strength of the assault made upon Adam, which caused his fall? It was not his indwelling sin; for God made Adam after His own character, pure and upright. There were no corrupt principles in the first Adam, no corrupt propensities or tendencies to evil. Adam was as faultless as the angels before God's throne. These things are inexplainable, but many things which now we cannot understand will be made plain when we shall see as we are seen, and know as we are known.                                           -87-  {16MR 86.2}
[16MR 87.1]         What humiliation our Lord was subjected to when assailed by the powers of the prince of darkness. Was it no degradation to the spotless Son of God that His dignity should be questioned, His authority disputed, and His allegiance to His heavenly Father assailed by a fallen foe? How humiliating to Christ to have Satan show a superiority to Him. We but dimly comprehend why Christ was brought in contact with the adversary of God and man. It was in behalf of fallen humanity that the compassionate Christ was made to appear in His humiliation.  {16MR 87.1}
[16MR 87.2]          All heaven watched the scene of the temptation. The object of Satan's assault was the Commander of heaven, and with what intense interest heavenly angels watched the conflict. Behold, angels stand on guard, ready to undertake in Christ's behalf should Satan pass his prescribed limit. Oh, what love burns in the hearts of the angelic throng as they behold their loved Commander apparently in the power of His foe. And when the last temptation comes, when the enemy offers to Christ all the world and the glory of it if He will fall down and worship him, when they see divinity flash through humanity, their love and sympathy can no longer be restrained.  {16MR 87.2}
[16MR 87.3]          Christ gave evidence that all Satan's taunts could not call Him from His allegiance to His Father. The very purity of His principles was assailed, but He gave evidence of the mighty power that was in Him. "Get thee hence, Satan," He said, "for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve."  {16MR 87.3}
[16MR 87.4]          The Captain of our salvation overcame the enemy, and Satan left the field a conquered foe. But the terrible strain upon His humanity left Christ as one dead. Then angels came and ministered unto Him. Their arms                                           -88-     encircled Him. Upon the breast of the highest angel in heaven His head rested. He was provided with food, and divine consolation flowed into His soul. His humanity had felt the shock of Satan's tremendous effort to overcome Him, but the enemy was vanquished, and the human race was placed on vantage ground with God.  {16MR 87.4}
[16MR 88.1]          In His human nature Christ conquered in behalf of the fallen race. For time and for eternity man would be able to resist the power of the satanic agencies by becoming partaker of the divine nature. He could keep the law of God.  {16MR 88.1}
[16MR 88.2]          Here is presented before all the warfare of Christ with Satan in behalf of the human race. The church is to stand in and through Him who took the penalty of sin upon His own divine soul. Every advantage that Christ had in the conflict He has made it possible for man to have. There stood the divine God in closest contest with the evil one. What an hour for the triumph and supremacy of Satan, man's most deadly foe. How he would have exulted had he been able to place his feet upon Christ as a victor. What swellings of pride filled his heart because he had it in his power to humiliate Christ. But the Son of God came forth more than conqueror. Oh, if men would avail themselves of their advantages, they would in turn become victors over the powers of darkness. More will be written on this subject. --Letter 191, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. June 5, 1986. Entire Letter  {16MR 88.2}
[16MR 89.1]       MR No. 1198 - The Teacher Sent from God         "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits" ［Matthew 7:15, 16］.  {16MR 89.1}
[16MR 89.2]          There are some who have departed from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and these in their turn seduce others through falsehood and misrepresentation. These false teachers are represented by Christ as ravening wolves. Their work is to tear down that which God through His agencies is seeking to build up. "Thus saith the Lord concerning the prophets that make My people err, that bite with their teeth, and cry, Peace; and he that putteth not into their mouths, they even prepare war against him. Therefore night shall be unto you, that ye shall not have a vision; and it shall be dark unto you, that ye shall not divine; and the sun shall go down over the prophets, and the day shall be dark over them. Then shall the seers be ashamed, and the diviners confounded; yea, they shall all cover their lips; for there is no answer of God" ［Micah 3:5-7］.  {16MR 89.2}
[16MR 89.3]          False prophets are described by Paul in his letter to Timothy: "Men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers                                           -90-     of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof" ［2 Timothy 3:2-5］. Paul warns his son in the gospel, saying, "This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare; holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck" ［1 Timothy 1:18, 19］.  {16MR 89.3}
[16MR 90.1]          When those who controvert the truth of God send for men to oppose truth with falsehood and error, this is the time to watch the influence their words have upon the congregation. Those who do not want a knowledge of the truth will greedily partake of the dish of pleasing fables presented to them. They will listen diligently to the falsehoods and ravening of the wolves in sheep's clothing. They are of those who rejoice in iniquity. They infuse into the hearts of those who do not want God's way the same wicked opposition that is in their own hearts. And they will act out the same spirit toward God's commandment-keeping people in this time as the Jews did when they refused to believe the truths which Christ unfolded before them. Christ presented before this people the prophecies of the Old Testament Scriptures, showing them that by their rejection of Him they were fulfilling those prophecies. But they continued in their evil course, and followed to the end the works which stand registered against them in the books of heaven, and which have brought eternal infamy upon them as a nation.  {16MR 90.1}
[16MR 90.2]          What accusation did they bring against Christ? The same which men today bring against the commandment-keeping people of God--scandal, reproach, and falsehood. Greedily they receive the testimony of false witnesses. They hired men to report against Christ, that they might have                                           -91-     some pretext for condemning Him. Everything that could be said or done was done to make themselves and others believe Him a criminal. His every word and action was watched and reported to His enemies in a distorted light. Spies were constantly upon His track, saying, "Show us a sign. Work some miracle."  {16MR 90.2}
[16MR 91.1]         When Christ said to the sick of the palsy, "Be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee," He gave His enemies a sign which they could not set aside. "And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?" But Jesus, knowing their unspoken thoughts, said, "What reason ye in your hearts? Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (He said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things today" ［Luke 5:21-26］.  {16MR 91.1}
[16MR 91.2]          Did this evidence that Christ was the Son of God cause the scribes and Pharisees to believe in Him? No; this demonstration of mercy and wonderful restoration only exasperated them. It was not evidence that He was the great Teacher sent from God that they wanted, but that He was a deceiver. Again and again they were on His track, to see and hear His words and works. Their hearts were not open to conviction. They were filled with intense hatred, with bitter prejudice, and they were ever seeking to find some                                        -92-     occasion to work out their bitterness and wrath against Him. "And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said to His disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? But when Jesus heard that, He said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" ［Matthew 9:10-13］.  {16MR 91.2}
[16MR 92.1]         Next in His work came a call from a ruler, saying, "My daughter is even now dead; but come and lay Thy hand upon her, and she shall live. And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did His disciples." As He went, the people pressed about Him, until He was followed by a vast multitude. "And, behold, a woman which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind Him, and touched the hem of His garment: for she said within herself, If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole. But Jesus turned Him about, and when He saw her, He said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour."  {16MR 92.1}
[16MR 92.2]          "And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise, He said unto them, Give place; for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed Him to scorn. But when the people were put forth, He went in, and took her by the hand, and the maid arose. And the fame thereof went abroad into all that land.  {16MR 92.2}
[16MR 92.3]          "And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us. And when He was come into the house, the blind men came to Him; and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that                                         -93-     I am able to do this? They said unto Him, Yea, Lord. Then touched He their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it" ［Verses 18-30］.  {16MR 92.3}
[16MR 93.1]         Notwithstanding this charge, the restored men "when they were departed, spread abroad His fame in all that country." This added fuel to the fire of prejudice. His enemies interpreted His works of mercy and compassion as a wrong done to themselves. The people were leaving them and listening to the teachings of Christ.  {16MR 93.1}
[16MR 93.2]          "As they went out, behold, they brought to Him a dumb man possessed with a devil. And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel." These words, contrasting the works and mercy of Christ with the course pursued by the priests and Pharisees, exasperated the leading men, and in the place of the evidence softening their proud, ungodly hearts, they were filled with prejudice. Every additional proof given them provoked them to increased resistance.  {16MR 93.2}
[16MR 93.3]          When they saw that they could not prevent Him from working miracles, they put forth their skill to misrepresent and falsify Him. They could bear false witness, and this they did. They said, "He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils." But Jesus worked on, irrespective of censure and prejudice, resistance and determined opposition. The genuineness of His power and work was kept before the people, and His enemies could not turn the multitude from following after Him.  {16MR 93.3}
[16MR 93.4]          In Christ's mighty works there was sufficient evidence for faith. But these men did not want truth. They could not but acknowledge the reality of the works of Christ, but they cast condemnation upon them all. They must                                          -94-     acknowledge that supernatural power attended His work, but this power, they declared, was derived from Satan. Did they really believe this? No; but they were so determined that the truth should not affect their hearts and they be converted, that they charged the work of the Spirit of God to the devil. In this they blasphemed God and committed the sin against the Holy Spirit, which has no forgiveness in this world or in the world to come.  {16MR 93.4}
[16MR 94.1]          "But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then said He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest."  {16MR 94.1}
[16MR 94.2]          All-compassionate Redeemer! What love, what matchless love, was Thine! Charged by the great men of Israel with doing His works of mercy through the prince of devils, scorned and maligned, He was yet as one who saw and heard not. The work He came from heaven to do must not be left undone. He saw that truth must be unfolded to men. The light of the world must flash His beams into the darkness of sin and superstition, and reveal error in contrast with truth. That truth found no place in the hearts of those who should have been foremost to receive it, because they were barricaded by prejudice and wicked unbelief, and among those who had not such exalted privileges He prepared hearts to receive it. He made new bottles for the new wine.  {16MR 94.2}
[16MR 94.3]          Every moral and spiritual truth is invested by the God of heaven with a power of influence proportionate to its character and importance. The work of Christ was tested and brought forth prominently. The plan of redemption, which means everything to a lost and ruined world, was to be proclaimed, and                                      -95-     the Spirit of God in Christ Jesus was brought into vital contact with the heart of the world, in order to draw the world to its divine Author, the Truth, the Word, and the Life. Christ declared, "I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me."  {16MR 94.3}
[16MR 95.1]          Christ does not use force or compulsion in drawing men to Him. But while truth was being proclaimed, the hearts of those who professed to be children of God were barricaded against it, and those who had not been so highly privileged, those who were not clothed with the garment of self-righteousness, were drawn to Christ. Their minds were convinced and quickened into activity, and light and truth vibrated through the universe. It was the plan of redemption, which was to call forth the intellect, to thrill the soul, and prepare it for the great power of God, which is salvation to all who believe--a truth so large, so deep, so full and complete, it could be the center of all truth hitherto revealed, presenting in a more exalted manner that which had been buried beneath a mass of rubbish and error. The work of Christ was to replace old truths in the framework of the gospel, and by bringing clearly to view neglected obligations, renovate the world.  {16MR 95.1}
[16MR 95.2]          Satan endeavored to keep hidden from the world the great atoning sacrifice which reveals the law in all its sacred dignity, and impresses hearts with the force of its binding claims. He was warring against the work of Christ, and united all his evil angels with human instrumentalities in opposition to that work. But while he was carrying on this work, heavenly intelligences were combining with human instrumentalities in the work of restoration. The cross stands as the great center of the world, bearing a certain testimony that the cross of Christ will be the condemnation of every transgressor of the law of God. Here are the two great                                           -96-     powers, the power of truth and righteousness and the working of Satan to make of none effect the law of God. The human agent, magnetized by the power of Satan, works in the lines of the enemy; the Saviour employs His human instrumentalities to be laborers together with God.  {16MR 95.2}
[16MR 96.1]          Those who expect to be children of God are not to expect an easy time in this life. There are battles to be fought. We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness in this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. We are not left alone to engage in this conflict. Jesus Christ is the Captain of our salvation. He clothed His divinity with humanity, and took the field Himself, that He might teach us to fight the battles of the Lord. He says "Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of Me, I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart" ［Psalms 40:8］.  {16MR 96.1}
[16MR 96.2]          Who is this? We ask Isaiah, and he answers, "Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace" ［Isaiah 9:6］. John the Baptist tells us who He is: "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" ［John 1:29］. And the beloved disciple adds his testimony, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" ［John 1:1］.--Manuscript 61, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 5, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 96.2}
[16MR 97.1]       MR No. 1199 - The Simplicity of Christ's Teaching         The simplicity of Christ's teaching was in harmony with the whole purpose and work of His earthly mission.  {16MR 97.1}
[16MR 97.2]          He came to draw all men unto Himself. He desired to uplift them from their earthliness and sensuality. And in order to accomplish this, He Himself came near to the fallen race.  {16MR 97.2}
[16MR 97.3]          For thousands of years men had been in thraldom to a degenerating power. Satan had perverted their conceptions of God and of the plan and work of salvation. He had brought their minds so fully under his control that every heavenly attribute had been well nigh destroyed. Of himself man had not one thought or impulse of a spiritual nature. He could do nothing to save himself. Only as Christ should draw him could he take one step in repentance or reform.  {16MR 97.3}
[16MR 97.4]          It was necessary that men should be brought to see this. They must look to Christ as their Helper. Then He could free them from Satan's control. He could impart to them those attributes of character which had been lost through sin. His grace would enable them to regain Eden.  {16MR 97.4}
[16MR 97.5]          The Truth, the Life, and the Light of the world was to find a place in the hearts of men. For this, Christ clothed His divinity with humanity. This was the only means by which He could reach humanity. "The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us." Christ became one with the human family. He spoke in the language of men. He bore with them their trials and their poverty. He ate with them at their tables, and shared their toils. Thus He assured them of His complete identification with humanity.                                         -98-  {16MR 97.5}
[16MR 98.1]          It was necessary that He should do all this. Though He came in human form, His wonderful works and the mystery of His character inspired the people with awe, and tended to shut them away from Him. But by Himself coming in close contact and sympathy with men, Christ broke down the barriers.  {16MR 98.1}
[16MR 98.2]          In His teaching Christ did not conform to the practices of the great men of the world or of the divinity teachers. Their teaching made dark and intricate that which was plain. They made a show of possessing great knowledge, knowledge which the common people could not comprehend. But their wisdom was foolishness. Christ's knowledge was great, His wisdom deep; but it was without pretense. It found expression in words beautiful with the grace of simplicity, yet clothed with dignity and power.  {16MR 98.2}
[16MR 98.3]          Christ, the Author of truth, did not disdain to present truths that were old and familiar. The great purpose of His mission was ever kept in view. When this purpose could be served by the repetition of familiar truths, He employed them. By unsanctified minds, many of these truths had been disconnected from their true position and had been employed to strengthen error. Christ recovered and replaced them as links in the great chain of redemption.  {16MR 98.3}
[16MR 98.4]          Many precious gems of light had lost their lustre; they were buried beneath a mass of tradition and superstition. As the Author of truth, Christ was able to distinguish every precious gem. His hand removed the rubbish of false teaching, and recovered the lost treasures. In all their original freshness and beauty, He sent them in the framework of the gospel, and commanded that they should stand fast forever.  {16MR 98.4}
[16MR 98.5]          In His teaching, Christ reached the minds of men by the pathway of their familiar associations. He linked His lessons with their most hallowed                                           -99-     recollections and their tenderest sympathies. His illustrations were drawn from the great book of nature, from the life experience of His hearers, from the treasury of household ties and affections. The simple lily of the field in its freshness and beauty was presented in the lessons of the great Master Artist. With the common duties of life He bound up the most precious treasures of divine truth. The regenerating power of His grace is represented by figures which all could comprehend. Thus He made truth and life a part of the daily appointments. Everything connected with the common routine of life was invested with a solemn dignity, and shown to be related to eternal interests.  {16MR 98.5}
[16MR 99.1]          Christ taught the people that all true knowledge is divine, and that, acted upon, it would lead them heavenward. In all His teachings there was suggested to His hearers a new train of thought, in harmony with the transforming principles of truth. By meeting the people where they were, He was able to carry them with Him to a higher plane of thought and life. Their hearts were prepared to receive the rays of light from the great Light of the world.  {16MR 99.1}
[16MR 99.2]          Though Christ had taken upon Himself human nature, yet His divinity flashed through humanity. In all His education and discipline, His superiority was revealed. In their simplicity the lessons which fell from His lips possessed a power and attractiveness which none of the world's great men could equal. "The common people heard him gladly," and the testimony borne to His teaching was, "Never man spake like this man."--Manuscript 53, 1900.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 5, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 99.2}
[16MR 100.1]       MR No. 1200 - The Need for Love in the Church, and An Appeal to Heed the Message to the Laodiceans         (Written September 1, 1892, from North Fitzroy, Victoria, to O. A. Olsen, president of the General Conference.)  {16MR 100.1}
[16MR 100.2]          We are certainly living amid the perils of the last days, and, while we may intellectually accept the theory of the truth, it will be of no saving value to us unless the prayer of Christ avails in our behalf, "Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth." The meaning of that prayer is, Make them holy through the knowledge of the Word. "The light (Christ) shineth in darkness (the world), and the darkness comprehended it not." Instead of welcoming that which scatters the darkness, many comprehend it not and received it not.  {16MR 100.2}
[16MR 100.3]         Ministers are sent, as was John, to bear witness of that Light. The office of the messenger sent of God is not to draw the sympathies of the people to himself, but to direct the affections and sympathies away from himself, to center them upon Christ. The burden of his message should be,  {16MR 100.3}
[16MR 100.4]          "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." Christ "was in the world, and the world was made by Him"; but the world had sunk to such terrible depths of unbelief that when its own Creator came to it, it knew Him not. "He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. 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: which were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God." This grace is not inherited.                                          -101-  {16MR 100.4}
[16MR 101.1]          I wish that all would see that the very same spirit which refused to accept Christ, the Light that would dispel the moral darkness, is far from being extinct in this age of the world. There are those in our day who are no more ready to recognize and acknowledge light than were the people when the prophets and the apostles came with messages from God, and many rejected the message and despised the messenger. Let us beware that this spirit is not entertained by any one of us.  {16MR 101.1}
[16MR 101.2]          ［Revelation 2:1-5, quoted.］        He who was seen by John in the vision, in the midst of the golden candlesticks, represents Himself as walking among them, going from church to church, from congregation to congregation and from soul to soul. Here is unwearied vigilance. While the undershepherds may be asleep, or engrossed with matters of small importance, He that keepeth Israel doth not slumber nor sleep. He is the true Watchman. The presence and sustaining grace of Christ are the secret of all light and life. We are kept by the power of God, through faith, and that not of ourselves; it is the gift of God.  {16MR 101.2}
[16MR 101.3]          The Lord Jesus Christ gave the message to John to be written, to come down through the ages to the end of the world. Words of commendation are spoken to the church of Ephesus. The "Well done" is pronounced on the good and faithful servant. But the message does not close here. The Saviour says, "Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love." This has been brought in clear lines before me again and again, and I have presented it to the people with pen and voice.  {16MR 101.3}
[16MR 101.4]          Does this striking message mean nothing to us? Is it in no sense applicable? Why are not such solemn warnings contemplated? Why do not all,                                          -102-     with watchfulness and humility and confession, manifest that repentance that needeth not to be repented of? Why do so many pass on without taking heed?  {16MR 101.4}
[16MR 102.1]          Is love abiding in the church? Is it not almost extinct? With many, their first love for Jesus has cooled. Brethren do not love brethren. The love of many has waxed cold. The True Witness represents all who have left their first love as fallen. Did He not know their peril? "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."  {16MR 102.1}
[16MR 102.2]          Shall these heart-searching truths continue to be passed by with indifference by the churches? The loss of the first love has opened the door to a great amount of selfishness, evil surmising, evil speaking, envy, jealousy, hard-heartedness. This is the fruit borne when the fervor of the first love has grown cold. There has been but little restraint upon the tongue, for prayer has been neglected. A Pharisaical righteousness has been cherished; there is a deadness of spirituality; and a lack of spiritual eyesight is the result.  {16MR 102.2}
[16MR 102.3]          The only hope for churches today is to repent and do their first work. The name of Jesus does not kindle the heart with love. A mechanical, formal orthodoxy has taken the place of deep, fervent charity and tenderness to one another. Will any give heed to the solemn admonition, "Turn ye, turn ye; for why will ye die?" Fall upon the Rock, and be broken; then let the Lord Jesus prepare you, to mold and fashion you, as a vessel unto honor. Well may the people fear and tremble under these words: "Except thou repent, I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his                                          -103-     place." What then? "If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!"  {16MR 102.3}
[16MR 103.1]          The Spirit will not always strive with the heart that is filled with perversity. The infinite, forbearing One, who paid the price of His own blood to save His people, is addressing them. Who will hearken to His warning? Have the churches that claim to believe the truth for these last days been fruit-bearing trees of righteousness? Why are they not bearing much fruit to the glory of God? Why are they not abiding in Christ, and going on from strength to strength, from character to character?  {16MR 103.1}
[16MR 103.2]          The word of the Lord to His people is, "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 against the wiles of the devil." Why are the people thus addressed degenerating into weakness and inefficiency, not having the love of Christ burning upon the altar of their hearts, and therefore unable to kindle love in the hearts of others?  {16MR 103.2}
[16MR 103.3]          God's people have evidenced piled upon evidence; they have truth powerful and convincing. Shall it be kept in the outer court, so that it does not sanctify the soul? Shall the candle that once burned brightly, sending its light amid the moral darkness of error, gradually go out, until it is quenched in darkness?  {16MR 103.3}
[16MR 103.4]          How was it with Ephesus? She knew not the time of her visitation. She did not heed the solemn admonitions of God. She did not maintain a vital connection with Christ, and grievous wolves entered in, and spared not the flock. The church, once beloved of God, that might have sent her                                          -104-     bright rays amid the moral darkness to enlighten many souls, permitted her light to go out.  {16MR 103.4}
[16MR 104.1]          One of the greatest sins that is now extinguishing spiritual light is want of love for Jesus and one another. "To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God." See the longing, yearning love of Jesus who presents to His people the attractions of the eternal life, that they may catch the glory of the future world, and regain their first love. It is not the fashion now to repent. It is regarded by some as altogether too humiliating a work, altogether too old-fashioned.  {16MR 104.1}
[16MR 104.2]          ［1 John 1:5-10; 2:9-11, quoted.］        Could any description be more sharp and clear than John has given us? These things are written for us; they are applicable to the churches of Seventh-day Adventists. Some may say, "I do not hate my brother; I am not so bad as that." But how little they understand their own hearts. They may think they have a zeal for God in their feelings against their brother, if his ideas seem in any way to conflict with theirs; feelings are brought to the surface that have no kinship with love. They show no disposition to harmonize with him. They would as lief be at swords' point with their brother as not. And yet he may be bearing a message from God to the people --just the light they need for this time.  {16MR 104.2}
[16MR 104.3]         Why do not brethren of like precious faith consider that in every age, when the Lord has sent a special message to the people, all the powers of the confederacy of evil have set at work to prevent the word of truth from coming to those who should receive it?                                          -105-  {16MR 104.3}
[16MR 105.1]          If Satan can impress the mind and stir up the passions of those who claim to believe the truth, and thus lead them to unite with the forces of evil, he is well pleased. If once he can get them to commit themselves on the wrong side, he has laid his plans to lead them on a long journey. Through his deceptive wiles he will cause them to act upon the same principles he adopted in his disaffection in heaven. They take step after step in the false way, until there seems to be no other course for them except to go on, believing they are right in their bitterness of feeling toward their brethren. Will the Lord's messenger bear the pressure brought against him? If so, it is because God bids him stand in his strength and vindicate the truth that he is sent of God.  {16MR 105.1}
[16MR 105.2]          When men listen to the Lord's message, but through temptation allow prejudice to bar the mind and heart against the reception of truth, the enemy has power to present the most precious things in a distorted light. Looking through the medium of prejudice and passion, they feel too indignant to search the Scriptures in a Christlike spirit, but repudiate the whole matter because points are presented that are not in accordance with their own ideas.  {16MR 105.2}
[16MR 105.3]          When a new view is presented, the question is often asked, "Who are its advocates? What is the position of influence of the one who would teach us who have been students of the Bible for many years?" God will send His words of warning by whom He will send. And the question to be settled is not what person is it who brings the message; this does not in any way affect the word spoken. "By their fruits ye shall know them."                                          -106-  {16MR 105.3}
[16MR 106.1]          Truth is often preached by one who has not experienced its power; but it is truth nevertheless, and is blessed to those who, drawn by the Spirit of God, accept it. But when the truth is presented by one who is himself sanctified through it, it has a freshness, a force, that gives it a convincing power to the hearer. The truth, in its power upon the heart, is precious, and the truth addressed to the understanding is clear. Both are needful--the word and the inward testimony of the Spirit.  {16MR 106.1}
[16MR 106.2]          In regard to the testimony that has come to us through the Lord's messengers, we can say, We know in whom we have believed. We know that Christ is our righteousness, not alone because He is so described in the Bible, but because we have felt His transforming power in our own hearts.  {16MR 106.2}
[16MR 106.3]          Now, although there has been a determined effort to make of no effect the message God has sent, its fruits have been proving that it was from the source of light and truth. Those who have cherished unbelief and prejudice, who in the place of helping to do the work the Lord would have them do, have stood to bar the way against all evidence, cannot be supposed to have clearer spiritual eyesight for having so long closed their eyes to the very light God sent to the people.  {16MR 106.3}
[16MR 106.4]          If we are to bear a part in this work to its close, we must recognize the fact that there are good things to come to the people of God in a way that we had not discerned; and that there will be resistance from the very ones we expected to engage in such a work. A man that is sincere in the wrong is not justified in the wrong, because he has opened his heart to a class of evidence leading him to condemn the right, and has closed his heart to a class of evidence which, if he would not cherish prejudice, would lead him to see and acknowledge what is truth.                                          -107-  {16MR 106.4}
[16MR 107.1]          How long the lord will have patience with men in their blindness, how long He will wait before leaving them to grope their way to final darkness, we cannot determine.  {16MR 107.1}
[16MR 107.2]          Should the Lord's messengers, after standing manfully for the truth for a time, fall under temptation, and dishonor Him who has given them their work, will that be proof that the message is not true? No, because the Bible is true. "To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Sin on the part of the messenger of God would cause Satan to rejoice, and those who have rejected the messenger and the message would triumph; but it would not at all clear the men who were guilty of rejecting the message of truth sent of God.  {16MR 107.2}
[16MR 107.3]          One matter burdens my soul: The great lack of the love of God, which has been lost through continued resistance of light and truth, and the influence of those who have been engaged in active labor, who, in the face of evidence piled upon evidence, have exerted an influence to counteract the work of the message God has sent. I point them to the Jewish nation and ask, Must we leave our brethren to pass over the same path of blind resistance, till the very end of probation? If ever a people needed true and faithful watchmen, who will not hold their peace, who will cry day and night, sounding the warnings God has given, it is Seventh-day Adventists. Those who have had great light, blessed opportunities, who, like Capernaum, have been exalted to heaven in point of privilege, shall they by non-improvement be left to darkness corresponding to the greatness of the light given?                                          -108-  {16MR 107.3}
[16MR 108.1]          I wish to plead with our brethren who shall assemble at the General Conference to heed the message given to the Laodiceans. What a condition of blindness is theirs! This subject has been brought to your notice again and again, but your dissatisfaction with your spiritual condition has not been deep and painful enough to work reform. "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." The guilt of self-deception is upon our churches. The religious life of many is a lie.  {16MR 108.1}
[16MR 108.2]          Jesus has presented to them the precious jewels of truth, the riches of His grace and salvation, the glistening white vesture of His own righteousness, woven in heaven's loom and containing not one thread of human invention. Jesus is knocking. Open the door of the heart, and buy of Him the precious heavenly treasure. Shall His pleadings fall upon ears that are dull of hearing, if not entirely closed? Shall Jesus knock in vain? "See that ye refuse not Him that speaketh." If you will hearken, and open the door, He will come in and sup with you, and you may sup with Him. Will you respond, "Come in, Thou blessed of the Lord; wherefore standest Thou without?"  {16MR 108.2}
[16MR 108.3]          I ask, What means the contention and strife among us? What means this harsh, iron spirit, which is seen in our churches and in our institutions, and which is so utterly unChristlike? I have deep sorrow of heart because I have seen how readily a word or action of Elder Jones or Elder Waggoner is criticized. How readily many minds overlook all the good that has been done through them in the few years past, and see no evidence that God is working through these instrumentalities. They hunt for something to condemn, and                                          -109-     their attitude toward these brethren who have zealously engaged in doing a good work, shows that feelings of enmity and bitterness are in the heart. What is needed is the converting power of God upon hearts and minds. Cease watching your brethren with suspicion.  {16MR 108.3}
[16MR 109.1]         As Christ was about to leave His disciples, He said, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another." This is the measure with which we are to love one another--"As I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another." Again He said, "Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples. As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you; continue ye in My love."  {16MR 109.1}
[16MR 109.2]          Mark the words of Christ, and bear them in mind: "As I have loved you, that ye also love one another." "This is My commandment, that ye love one another as I have loved you." "Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word, that they all may be one."  {16MR 109.2}
[16MR 109.3]          How full and perfect is this union to be? "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."  {16MR 109.3}
[16MR 109.4]          What large possibilities are presented before us in the words spoken by Jesus! He says, "I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it, that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them." These words from the prayer of Christ are worthy of being written in letters                                          -110-     of gold. They should be dwelt upon, and presented to the world by pen and voice.  {16MR 109.4}
[16MR 110.1]          But why is it that those who claim to believe the truth are not doers of the word? Why is so little said upon these subjects which mean so much to every church and to every individual member? Think you that heaven does not look with amazement upon those who profess to be children of God, yet who pass on inattentive, careless, disregarding the plainest words of truth enjoined upon them? Is it not time for us to consider that we must live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God?  {16MR 110.1}
[16MR 110.2]          There are many in the ministry who have no love for God or for their fellow men. They are asleep, and while they sleep Satan is sowing his tares. The flock of God is in need of help from heaven, and the sheep and lambs are perishing for food. But let those who would have a deep and living experience in the things of God cease to depend upon men, even upon their own pastors and teachers, and put their trust wholly in God, using their God-given ability to His glory. Christ is to be lifted up before the people; for by beholding Him we are to become changed to His image. Jesus says, "Without Me ye can do nothing." He has made ample atonement, and he who lays hold upon Christ by faith has peace with God. The Holy Spirit purifies the heart, presenting God in new and enduring views as our heavenly Father.  {16MR 110.2}
[16MR 110.3]          Oh, that evil may be turned out of our hearts! Oh, that the soul may be thoroughly cleansed! Oh, that the love of God may abide in the soul as a living principle! Cultivate love for Jesus, love for those who believe in Him, and love for the wandering and perishing. We must have the love which                                         -111-     is of heavenly birth, and nourish it as a heavenly plant. Stubbornness, which prevails to a fearful extent, must be broken up. The professed followers of Christ should no longer catch up little points of difference, meditating upon them, talking about them, and magnifying them until love is gone from the soul, as water from a leaky vessel. We must have the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ in our hearts, else all our deeds will be as sounding brass and as a tinkling cymbal.  {16MR 110.3}
[16MR 111.1]          Will the people of God heed the voice of warning, and cultivate love? Will they lay aside their suspicions and jealousies? They cannot do this unless they fall all broken before God. Many have made, and are still making, great blunders. They love their own way so well that they will not surrender to God's way. Many have been convinced that they have grieved the Spirit of God by their resistance of light, but they hated to die to self, and deferred to do the work of humbling their hearts and confessing their sins. They would not acknowledge that the reproof was sent of God, or the instruction was from heaven, until every shadow of uncertainty was removed. They did not walk out into the light. They hoped to get out of difficulty in some easier way than by confession of sin, and Satan has kept hold of them, and tempted them, and they have had but feeble strength to resist him.  {16MR 111.1}
[16MR 111.2]          Evidence has been piled upon evidence, but they have been unwilling to acknowledge it. By their stubborn attitude they have revealed the soul malady that was upon them, for no evidence could satisfy them. Doubt, unbelief, prejudice, and stubbornness, killed all love from their souls. They demanded perfect assurance, but this is not compatible with faith.                                   -112-     Faith rests not on certainty, but upon evidence. Demonstration is not faith.  {16MR 111.2}
[16MR 112.1]          If the rays of light which shone at Minneapolis were permitted to exert their convincing power upon those who took their stand against light, if all had yielded their ways, and submitted their wills to the Spirit of God at that time, they would have received the richest blessing, disappointed the enemy, and stood as faithful men, true to their convictions. They would have had a rich experience. But self said, No. Self was not willing to be bruised. Self struggled for the mastery.  {16MR 112.1}
[16MR 112.2]          And every one of these souls will be tested again on the points where they failed then. They have less clearness of judgment, less submission, less genuine love for God and for their brethren now than before the test and trial at Minneapolis. In the books of heaven they are registered as wanting. Self and passion developed hateful characteristics.  {16MR 112.2}
[16MR 112.3]          Since that time, the Lord has given abundance of evidence in messages of light and salvation. No more tender calls, no better opportunities, could be given them in order that they might do that which they ought to have done at Minneapolis. The light has been withdrawing from some, and ever since they have walked in sparks of their own kindling. No one can tell how much may be at stake when neglecting to comply with the call of the Spirit of God.  {16MR 112.3}
[16MR 112.4]          The time will come when many will be willing to do anything and everything possible in order to have a chance of hearing the call which they rejected at Minneapolis. God moved upon hearts, but many yielded to another spirit, which was moving upon their passions from beneath. Oh, that these                                           -113-     poor souls would make thorough work before it is everlastingly too late. Better opportunities will never come, deeper feelings they will not have.  {16MR 112.4}
[16MR 113.1]          In order to have better opportunities in the future, they must improve the opportunities they have already had, yield to the Spirit of God, and heed the voice from heaven, giving prompt obedience from willing hearts. God will not be trifled with. The sin committed in what took place at Minneapolis remains on the record books of heaven, registered against the names of those who resisted light; and it will remain upon the record until full confession is made and the transgressors stand in full humility before God.  {16MR 113.1}
[16MR 113.2]          The levity of some, the free speeches of others, the manner of treating the messenger and the message when in their private stopping places, the spirit that stirred to action from beneath, all stand registered in the books of heaven. And when these persons are tried and brought over the ground again, the same spirit will be revealed. When the Lord has sufficiently tried them, if they do not yield to Him, He will withdraw His Holy Spirit. May the Lord grant that those who are deceived may make thorough work before probation closes.  {16MR 113.2}
[16MR 113.3]          God speaks to whom He will to carry His message. They must declare the message He gives, without reservation. Jonah was commanded to proclaim the destruction of Nineveh. For a time he refused to speak the words given him of God. Fainting with fear, wild with the awful message committed to him, he hurried away from the place where he was sent. He was a disobedient prophet; he fled from duty.                                           -114-  {16MR 113.3}
[16MR 114.1]          But when God speaks to men, commanding them to bear His message to the people, it means something. Those who are commanded to bear a message must move out although obstacles of a forbidding character are in the way. Those who claim to know the truth, and yet lay every obstacle in the way so that light shall not come to the people, will have an account to settle with God that they will not be pleased to meet. God manages His own work, and woe to the man who puts his hand to the ark of God.--Letter 19d, 1892.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C.  {16MR 114.1}
[16MR 115.1]       MR No. 1201 - Christ's Mission to Earth         In heaven Satan had declared that the sin of Adam revealed that human beings could not keep the law of God, and he sought to carry the universe with him in this belief. Satan's words appeared to be true, but Christ came to unmask the deceiver. He came that through trial and dispute of the claims of Satan in the great conflict, He might demonstrate that a ransom had been found. The Majesty of heaven would undertake the cause of man, and with the same facilities that man may obtain, stand the test and proving of God as man must stand it.  {16MR 115.1}
[16MR 115.2]          Christ came to the earth, taking humanity and standing as man's representative, to show in the controversy with Satan that he was a liar, and that man, as God created him, connected with the Father and the Son, could obey every requirement of God. Speaking through His servant He declares, "His commandments are not grievous." It was sin that separated man from his God, and it is sin that maintains this separation.  {16MR 115.2}
[16MR 115.3]          What a sight was this for heaven to look upon. Christ, who knew not the least moral taint or defilement of sin, took our nature in its deteriorated condition. This was humiliation greater than finite man can comprehend. He was the Majesty of heaven, but in the divine plan He descended from His high and holy estate to take humanity, that humanity might touch humanity, and divinity, combined with humanity, take hold upon divinity.  {16MR 115.3}
[16MR 115.4]          God was manifest in the flesh. He humbled Himself. What a subject for thought, for deep, earnest contemplation; so infinitely great that He was the Majesty of heaven, and yet He stooped so low without losing an atom of                                           -116-     His dignity or glory! Christ stooped to poverty and to the deepest abasement and humiliation among men. "For our sake He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich." "The foxes have holes," He said, "the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head."  {16MR 115.4}
[16MR 116.1]          Christ submitted to insult and mockery, contempt and ridicule. He heard His message, which was fraught with love and goodness and mercy, misapplied and misstated. He heard Himself called the prince of the devils because He testified to His Sonship with God. The circumstances of His birth were divine, but by His own nation, those who had blinded their eyes to spiritual things, it was regarded as a blot and a stain. But these insinuations and charges were but a small part of the abuse He endured in His life. There was not a drop of bitter woe which He did not taste, not a part of the curse which He did not endure, that He might bring many sons and daughters to God.  {16MR 116.1}
[16MR 116.2]          When we contemplate the fact that Jesus was on this earth as a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; that in order to save fallen man from eternal ruin He left His heavenly home, we should lay in the dust all our pride. This fact should put to shame all our vanity, and reveal to us our sin of self-sufficiency. Behold Him making the wants, the trials, the grief and suffering of sinful man His own. Can we not take home the lesson that God endured these sufferings and bruises of soul in consequence of sin?  {16MR 116.2}
[16MR 116.3]          By taking upon Himself man's nature in its fallen condition, Christ did not in the least participate in its sin. He was subject to the infirmities and weaknesses of the flesh with which humanity is encompassed, "that it                                           -117-     might be fulfilled that was spoken by the prophet Esaias, Himself took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses." He was touched with the feeling of our infirmities, and was in all points tempted like as we are. And yet He was without a spot.  {16MR 116.3}
[16MR 117.1]          There should not be the faintest misgivings in regard to the perfect freedom from sinfulness in the human nature of Christ. Our faith must be an intelligent faith, looking unto Jesus in perfect confidence, in full and entire faith in the atoning sacrifice. This is essential that the soul may not be enshrouded in darkness. This holy Substitute is able to save to the uttermost, for He presented to the wondering universe perfect and complete humility in His human character, and perfect obedience to all the requirements of God. Divine power is placed upon man, that he may become a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. This is why repenting, believing man can be made the righteousness of God in Him.  {16MR 117.1}
[16MR 117.2]          The purity and holiness of Christ, the spotless righteousness of Him who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth, was heaven's light in contrast with satanic darkness. In Him was a perpetual reproach upon all sin in a world of sensuality and sin.  {16MR 117.2}
[16MR 117.3]          The enmity referred to in the prophecy in Eden was not to be confined merely to Satan and the Prince of life. It was to be universal. Satan and his angels were to feel the enmity of all mankind. "I will put enmity," said God, "between thee and the woman, between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise His heel." The seed of Satan is wicked men, who resist the Spirit of God, and who call the law, as did their father the devil, a yoke of bondage. "Sin is transgression of the law," said Christ. "He that committeth sin is of the devil."                                           -118-  {16MR 117.3}
[16MR 118.1]          The enmity put between the seed of the serpent and the seed of the woman was supernatural. With Christ the enmity was in one sense natural; in another sense it was supernatural, as humanity and divinity were combined. And never was the enmity developed to such a marked degree as when Christ became a resident of this earth. Never before had there been a being upon the earth who hated sin with so perfect a hatred as did Christ. He had seen its deceiving, infatuating power upon the holy angels, causing them to revolt, and all His powers were enlisted against Satan. In the purity and holiness of His life, Christ flashed the light of truth amid the moral darkness with which Satan had enshrouded the world. Christ exposed his falsehoods and deceiving character, and spoiled his corrupting influence.  {16MR 118.1}
[16MR 118.2]          It was this that stirred Satan with such an intense hatred of Christ. With his hosts of fallen beings he determined to urge the warfare most vigorously; for there stood One in the world who was a perfect representation of the Father, and in His character and practices was a refutation of Satan's misrepresentations of the character of God.  {16MR 118.2}
[16MR 118.3]          It was the purity and sinlessness of Christ's humanity that stirred up such satanic hatred. His truth revealed their falsehoods. Satan saw God, whom he had charged with the attributes which he himself possessed, revealed in Christ in His true character--a compassionate, merciful God, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to Him in repentance and have eternal life.  {16MR 118.3}
[16MR 118.4]          Intense worldliness has been one of Satan's most successful temptations. He designs to keep the minds and hearts of men so completely filled with worldly attractions that there will be no room for heavenly things. He controls the minds of men in their love of the world. The inordinate                                           -119-     attachment to earthly things eclipses the heavenly, and puts the Lord out of the sight and understanding of men. False theories and false gods are cherished in the place of the true.  {16MR 118.4}
[16MR 119.1]          Men are dazed and charmed with the glitter and tinsel of the world. They are so attached to the things of earth that they will commit any sin in order to gain some worldly advantage. Satan thought to overthrow Christ on this point. He thought that the humanity of Christ would be easily overcome by his temptations. "And the devil taketh Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and showeth Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and said unto Him, All these things will I give Thee if Thou wilt fall down and worship me."  {16MR 119.1}
[16MR 119.2]          But Christ was unmoved; and He used only the weapons justifiable for human beings to use--the word of Him who is mighty in counsel, "It is written."  {16MR 119.2}
[16MR 119.3]          Had there been the least taint of sin in Christ, Satan would have bruised His head. As it was, he could only touch His heel. Had the head of Christ been touched, the hope of the human race would have perished. Divine wrath would have come upon Christ as it came upon Adam. Christ and the church would have been without hope. But Christ "knew no sin." He was the Lamb "without blemish and without spot."  {16MR 119.3}
[16MR 119.4]          With what intense interest was this controversy watched by the heavenly angels and the unfallen worlds as the honor of the law was being vindicated. Not merely for this world, but for the universe of heaven and the worlds that God had created, was the controversy to be forever settled. The confederacy of darkness were watching for the semblance of a chance to rise and triumph over the divine and human Substitute and Surety of the human race,                                           -120-     that the apostate might shout Victory, and the world and its inhabitants forever become his kingdom. But Satan reached only the heel; he could not touch the head.  {16MR 119.4}
[16MR 120.1]          Now he sees that his true character is clearly revealed before all heaven, and that the heavenly beings and the worlds that God has created would be wholly on the side of God. He sees that his prospects of future influence with them will be entirely cut off. Christ's humanity will demonstrate for eternal ages the question which settled the controversy.  {16MR 120.1}
[16MR 120.2]          What was it that moved His own nation to throw such scorn upon Jesus? The Jews were expecting an earthly prince who would deliver them from the power which God had declared would rule over them if they refused to keep the way of the Lord, and obey His statutes, His commandments, and His laws. They had made their proud boast that Israel's king, the star arising from Judah, would break their thraldom, and make of them a kingdom of priests.  {16MR 120.2}
[16MR 120.3]          But it was not the absence of external honor and riches and glory that caused the Jews to reject Jesus. The Sun of Righteousness shining amid the moral darkness in such distinct rays revealed the contrast between sin and holiness, purity and defilement, and such light was not welcome to them. Christ was not such an one as themselves. The Jews could have borne their disappointed hopes better than they could the righteous denunciation of their sins. In parables Christ laid bare their professed sanctity. He compared them to whited sepulchers, deceiving the people by their pretensions to piety.  {16MR 120.3}
[16MR 120.4]          That which Christ had specified would be His work, was fulfilled. The sick were healed, demoniacs were restored, lepers and paralytics were made whole. The dumb spake, the ears of the deaf were opened, the dead were                                          -121-     brought to life, and the poor had the gospel preached to them. Had a man in the common walks of life done the same works that Christ did, all would have declared that he was working by the power of God. Every miracle wrought by Christ convinced some of them of His true character, which answered to the specifications of the Messiah of prophecy; but those who did not receive the light of heaven set themselves more determinedly against this evidence.  {16MR 120.4}
[16MR 121.1]          In His youth Christ was subject unto His parents--an example of obedience to all the youth. In His youth He learned the trade of a carpenter, and earned His bread by the sweat of His brow. Thus He honored physical labor, and gave it as a lesson in His practical life. It should be an encouragement and source of strength to every human being in the performance of the commonplace duties of life to know that Jesus labored and toiled to provide for His own temporal wants.  {16MR 121.1}
[16MR 121.2]          The teachings of Christ, in precept and example, were the sowing of the seed, to be afterward cultivated by His disciples. He scattered the heavenly grain like precious pearls, which minds and hearts that desired light and knowledge might skillfully gather up as precious treasures sent from heaven.  {16MR 121.2}
[16MR 121.3]          Christ set forth truths more spiritual and deep than had ever before been heard from rulers, scribes, or elders. "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life," He declared. The rich treasures of truth opened before the people attracted and charmed their senses. They were in marked contrast with the dry, lifeless, spiritless expositions of the Old Testament Scriptures by the rabbis. And the miracles which He wrought kept constantly before His hearers the honor and glory of God. He seemed to them a messenger direct from heaven, for He spoke not to their ears, but to their hearts.                                         -122-  {16MR 121.3}
[16MR 122.1]          After listening to Christ the doctrines of the priests and rabbis were dry and painful to the ears of the people. These dignitaries of the temple saw that they could not hold the people, and they were filled with jealousy and hostility. Christ stood forth in His humility, yet in dignity and majesty, as one born to command. A power attended Him wherever He went, and hearts were melted into tenderness. An earnest desire was created to be in His presence, to listen to the voice of Him who uttered truths with such solemn melody.  {16MR 122.1}
[16MR 122.2]          The sayings of Christ are to be valued, not merely in accordance with the measure of the understanding of those who hear; they are to be considered in the important bearing which Christ Himself attaches to them. He took the old truths, of which He Himself was the originator, and placed them before His hearers in heaven's own light. How different was their representation. What a flood of meaning and brightness and spirituality was brought in by their explanation.  {16MR 122.2}
[16MR 122.3]          After His resurrection, Christ opened the understanding of His followers, that they might understand the Scriptures. Everything had been transformed by the working of the arts of Satan. Truth was covered up by the rubbish of error, and hidden from finite sight. When Christ referred to His humiliation, rejection, and crucifixion, the disciples could not take in His meaning. It had been a part of their education to expect Christ to set up a temporal kingdom, and when He spoke of His sufferings they could not understand His words. He reproved them because of their slowness of apprehension, and promised them that when the Comforter should come, He would bring many things to their remembrance.                                         -123-  {16MR 122.3}
[16MR 123.1]          Christ had many truths to give to His disciples, of which He could not speak, because they did not advance with the light that was flashed upon the Levitical laws and the sacrificial offerings. They did not embrace the light, advance with the light, and follow on to still greater brightness as Providence should lead the way.  {16MR 123.1}
[16MR 123.2]          And for the same reason Christ's disciples of 1897 do not comprehend important matters of truth. So dull has been the comprehension of even those who teach the truth to others that many things cannot be opened to them until they reach heaven. It ought not to be so. But as men's minds become narrow, they think they know it all, and set one stake after another in points of truths of which they have only a glimpse. They close their minds as though there were no more for them to learn, and should the Lord attempt to lead them on, they would not take up with the increased light. They cling to the spot where they think they see a glimmer of light, when it is only a link in the living chain of truths and promises to be studied. They know very little of what it means to follow in the footsteps of Christ.  {16MR 123.2}
[16MR 123.3]          The harmonious relation of truth, like links in a chain, will, just as fast as the mind is quickened by the Spirit of God to comprehend light and in humbleness of mind appropriate it, be dispensed to others, and give the glory back to God. The development of truth will be the reward to the humble-hearted seeker, who will fear God and walk with Him. The truth which the mind grasps as truth is capable of constant expansion and new developments. While beholding it, the truth is seen in all its bearings in the life and character, and becomes more clear and certain and beauteous. As the mind grasps it in its preciousness, it becomes elevated, ennobled, sanctified.                                         -124-  {16MR 123.3}
[16MR 124.1]         The entire system of Judaism was the gospel veiled. Far, very far, are human minds from grasping the teachings of Christ. These are old truths in new settings. I have been shown that those who will not consider are like the Jews. It is humbling to their dignity and pride to work the mines of truth. The Light of the world is sending His divine rays back to enlighten the entire Jewish economy, and the minds that have been accepting the sayings of men as the commandments of God are now ［to］ look to God Himself as the Author of all truth.  {16MR 124.1}
[16MR 124.2]          Man's inventions and traditions are not only unreliable, but dangerous, for they place men where God should be. They place the sayings of men where a "Thus saith the Lord" should be. The world's Redeemer possesses the key, and unlocks the treasure house of the Old Testament. He explores hidden things. He separates the precious truth from superstition and error and the devisings and imaginings of men.  {16MR 124.2}
[16MR 124.3]          Christ's habits and customs and practices were not after the standard of the world. What a lesson He gives to the Christian churches throughout the world not to exalt themselves above the Majesty of heaven, their Redeemer. What do men find in the example of Christ to justify their feeling of superiority, keeping themselves apart from their fellow men, hiding themselves from their own flesh, because they have obtained more of this world's goods than their neighbor. Because the world honors the wealthy and despises the poor, shall those who claim to follow Jesus do the same? Whose leading and example are such following? Certainly not the example of Him who said, "He hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised," "to preach the gospel to the poor."                                         -125-  {16MR 124.3}
[16MR 125.1]          Very many teachers are content with a supposition in regard to the truth. They have crude ideas, and are content with a surface work in searching for truth, taking for granted that they have all that is essential. They take the sayings of other men for truth, being too indolent to put themselves to diligent, earnest labor, represented in the Word as digging for hidden treasure.  {16MR 125.1}
[16MR 125.2]          Sharp, clear conceptions of truth will never be the reward of indolence. Investigation of every point that has been received as truth will richly repay the searcher in finding precious gems. In closely investigating every jot and tittle which we think is established truth beyond controversy, in comparing Scripture with Scripture, searching to see if there is no flaw in their interpretation, errors may be discovered. Christ would have the searcher of the Scriptures sink the shaft down deeper into the mines of truth. If the search is properly conducted, precious jewels of inestimable value will be found. The word of God is the mine of the unsearchable riches of Christ.--Manuscript 143, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 5, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 125.2}
[16MR 126.1]       MR No. 1202 - Diary Fragments--July to October, 1907              Elmshaven, St. Helena, California, July 22, 1907          This morning I praise the Lord that I have not suffered as I did last night. The left limb has troubled me for many long years. The ligaments were torn from the ankle. The word was, You will never be able to use your foot, for it has been so long without close investigation that nothing can relieve the difficulty and unite the ligaments torn from the ankle bone. The limb was injured from my being thrown from my pony. I was riding in a journey to Middle Park ［Colorado］. ［SEPTEMBER 4, 1872.］ The hip was injured and the whole limb was shrunken, and now this new difficulty. But all this was relieved by the best kind of treatment.  {16MR 126.1}
[16MR 126.2]         I use my limb carefully, but last night the pain in the ankle seemed unendurable. I could not sleep but I could pray, and the Lord, who has relieved me so many times, helped me. Our Saviour has told us to call upon Him. I have felt so thankful for that prayer Christ taught His disciples. It embraces everything for the inhabitants of the earth. Toward morning I slept, and when I awoke the pain was gone. I realize now the Lord was merciful, and I will praise Him in whom is my dependence and my trust. The Lord be praised.  {16MR 126.2}
[16MR 126.3]          I had reason to be thankful the pain was not in my heart, for I have suffered with my heart, but the Lord is very gracious to me. I shall be eighty years old next November 26. I can go up and down stairs as readily                                          -127-     as my young women workers, and the Lord has wonderfully blessed me with voice to reach the thousands upon our campground. I will praise the Lord and glorify His name.  {16MR 126.3}
[16MR 127.1]          I am now preparing the private testimonies, for they contain so many warnings in regard to the very dangers we are passing through. No man has a right to be judge over his fellow man as his God-given right. What Christ was in His life, we are to strive to be. Christ is our model, not only in His spotless holiness, but in compassion and patience and forbearance and love. "Learn of me," saith the perfect 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." We are to learn of Christ true courtesy and excellent judgment, and we are never to place ourselves as a god to tell any man his duty, for that is not given us of God.  {16MR 127.1}
[16MR 127.2]          Elmshaven, St. Helena Sanitarium, California, July 23, 1907          I thank my heavenly Father for His great blessing that He has given me --freedom from pain the past night. I could not sleep after two o'clock. I arose and dressed and wrote some things in my diary. I am having kept before me in clear lines, "He that winneth souls is wise." Bible religion I am urging upon our people. We are not to make our own standard. Christ has come to our world to become our standard and pattern.  {16MR 127.2}
[16MR 127.3]                     St. Helena, California, August 1, 1907          I am passing through trials of mind, and my soul is distressed in me since the camp meeting in St. Helena. There is a special work to be done for the Lord's people that but few realize. The Lord is sending warnings to His people in the developments that shall come from the trying of the cases                                          -128-     of fraudulent, guilty actions that have taken place with men in some connection with San Francisco and Oakland. This is to awaken the people to see that humanity without the law of God in the heart does not obey its principles. Man is trying ［to get］ his fellow man to bring in a supposed new order of things, but the heart is corrupt and utterly unreliable. God saith, "Woe unto you, lawyers!" There is not one of them obeying God's law that He came from heaven to make known, precept after precept.  {16MR 127.3}
[16MR 128.1]          I am full of sorrow for the people of God. They are having a trifling experience in true righteousness and true service to God. Not all connected with me are an honor spiritually. They are not in a position to do honor to my family. They are cheating themselves out of a true religious experience, trifling with eternal interests. They are not obtaining an experience that is of value to them in fitting their souls for the trials soon to come, and I am helpless to change the order of things. It does not seem to be in some of them to closely examine their own hearts, whether they are obtaining a fitness for the trials that are coming upon every soul, whatever his position or profession. The true religious experience they have not. I am distressed, for it is supposed that those of my household will feel an individual responsibility to keep their own souls in the love of God and be in their position a blessing to others.  {16MR 128.1}
[16MR 128.2]          I have a message for those who are professedly Christians but who do not realize their daily accountability to God. It is supposed my family will be of a very different order religiously. What can I do or say? They are handling sacred things daily, but I fear for their future unless they shall seek the Lord with all their heart. I may pray in the family, I may                                          -129-     address the church to seek the Lord, but unless they will obtain a deep experience they will not be prepared to unite with the holy family in the heavenly courts. I fear for every one of my family, and therefore fear for myself. What can I say? What can I do? The shortage of coming into spiritual union with God make me afraid, and what can I say or do in my physical weakness?  {16MR 128.2}
[16MR 129.1]             St. Helena Sanitarium, California, August 2, 1907          I am deeply grateful to our heavenly Father that I am improving healthwise. I need so much the grace of God every moment of my time. We are certainly now in the last conflict of this earth's history, and the signs of the Lord's coming, as Christ specified, are so common we scarcely consider the outcome. I am constantly pleading with the Lord to arouse His people to a vivid sense of the times which He has assured us would be just previous to the coming of our Lord.  {16MR 129.1}
[16MR 129.2]           Elmshaven, St. Helena, California, August 12 ［11］, 1907          Sunday morning, half past two o'clock. I have had a precious night's rest. I lay awake giving praise and thanksgiving to the Lord for this past night's rest. I am so thankful to my God for the blessing of freedom from pain.  {16MR 129.2}
[16MR 129.3]          I took a bath in cold water and rubbed myself thoroughly and felt no chill. I am seated on the cot lounge writing by lamplight. I have not had freedom from pain in many months before this morning, and my heart is thankful to God. Everyone in the house is sleeping.  {16MR 129.3}
[16MR 129.4]          I have been praying most earnestly for wisdom to place in print the very things that, should I not live, will be a help and strength to those                                          -130-     who will be pleased to use them. My heart is filled with thanksgiving and praise. Heaven is full of richest blessings to bestow upon all who need these precious blessings, if they ask the Lord with heart and soul, and have a strong desire to receive to impart. The Lord Jesus has passed through every temptation that human beings have had. We read that He "knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations," for He hath been "in all points tempted like as we are"--tempted in His human nature that He might know how to succor those who shall be tempted.  {16MR 129.4}
[16MR 130.1]          I am so thankful that this long siege of temptation, sadness, and grief is past. I can see my Redeemer, in whom I have fresh encouragement to trust as a never-failing Source of strength. I take up my service with renewed courage, yet not knowing which shall prosper, this or that. Every soul must walk by faith. Our service is a continual warfare against the satanic science coming in through deceptive guise to take us unawares. Therefore angels are on guard to protect all who are watching and believing and walking and working.  {16MR 130.1}
[16MR 130.2]          There are continuous battles to fight, and we are not safe a moment unless we place ourselves under guardianship of One who gave His own precious life to make it possible for everyone who will believe in Him as the Son of God, while meeting the strain of Satan's varied science, to escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. He is fully able, in response to our faith, to unite our human ［nature］ with His divine nature. We are, while trusting in and partaking of the divine nature and strengthening our own efforts, proclaiming Christ's mission on earth to be peace on earth and good will towards men. We are bound to speak of the                                          -131-     dangers of the warfare with invisible foes, and to keep the armor on, for we war not merely against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers and spiritual wickedness in high places. This means that men of influence will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits. Therefore we need to keep under the constant guardianship of holy angels.  {16MR 130.2}
[16MR 131.1]          To follow Christ is not freedom from conflict. It is not child's play. It is not spiritual idleness. All the enjoyment in Christ's service means sacred obligations in meeting oft stern conflicts. To follow Christ means stern battles, active labor, warfare against the world, the flesh, and the devil. Our enjoyment is the victories gained for Christ in earnest, hard warfare. Think of this.  {16MR 131.1}
[16MR 131.2]          "We are laborers together with God." Christ engaged in the great work for which He lived and died. We are to be instant in season and out of season. And why? "For ye are bought with a price," and have enlisted under the banner of Prince Immanuel. We are enlisted for labor, "not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life." We are to work out our own salvation with fear and with trembling.  {16MR 131.2}
[16MR 131.3]          We are not our own. We are bought with a price, to glorify God with our bodies and spirits which are His. A work is to be done. There is a faithful work to do in His vineyard. And to every man is given his work. If we are privileged with the bread of life, we must work in the Lord's vineyard. A charge comes to us to deny ourselves and take up the cross and follow Christ. We are to run the race set before us with persevering earnestness. This oft requires energetic movements. We cannot be idlers. We are urged, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life.                                          -132-  {16MR 131.3}
[16MR 132.1]          Every soul must count the cost. Not one will succeed but by strenuous effort. We must spiritually exercise all our powers, and crucify the flesh with its affections and lusts. Crucifixion means much more than many suppose. We are to heed every word of counsel, and not be indifferent in words and actions. Teach these lessons in the family circle. We are not to be off our guard, but to watch and pray lest we enter into temptation.  {16MR 132.1}
[16MR 132.2]          We must keep constantly before the ones who are pledged to the service of Christ, that it means diligence. It means to be faithful workers, to do all possible to win souls to Christ. It is a constant watchfulness to be faithful unto death, to fight the good fight of faith until the warfare is ended and as overcomers we shall receive the crown of life.  {16MR 132.2}
[16MR 132.3]          This means much more than we take in. Christ is our example. The Christian warfare is not a life of indulgence to eat and drink and dress as self-indulgent worldlings. The Lord Jesus came in human nature to our world to give His precious life as an example of what our life should be. He is the specimen, not of spiritual indulgence, but of a life constantly before us of self-denial, self-sacrifice. We have the correct view that Christ our Pattern came to give us. There is before us the Prince of heaven, the Son of God. He laid aside the royal crown and the princely robe and came to take His position in our world as a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. How few take it in! We are not to be petted babies, but laborers together with Christ to save a world, by our own human example bearing a message from the Word of God.  {16MR 132.3}
[16MR 132.4]               St. Helena Sanitarium, California, August 14, 1907          I thank the Lord this morning that I have had more hours in sleep during the past night. I am sure the Lord is my Helper, my front guard and my                                          -133-     rereward. Now is our opportunity to be guarded on every side. Satan will come in, if possible, to lead our people, now, in 1907, into strange paths. This was done after we left America for Australia. Then money seemed to come in, and there was no dearth of means, and that hospital was built in Boulder, Colorado. Such scenes were presented to me as the use of means, and the want of men of right capability to use the means.  {16MR 132.4}
[16MR 133.1]         Last night I slept well, and this morning I am very thankful to my heavenly Father that He gave strength yesterday to write out some important matters.  {16MR 133.1}
[16MR 133.2]              St. Helena, California, Wednesday, August ［?］, 1907          I cannot sleep after twelve o'clock. There are many things that are brought before me which I wish to remember. I place myself in writing position. My mind has been greatly wrought upon during the night. I was in a meeting in Colorado. I seemed to be in the meetinghouse, and there were some things that were to be considered away from the sanitarium and away from the campground. One was in our midst full of wisdom, and we were to hear His words. He said words that were appropriate for the occasion. This instruction was of that character that all would understand and could not turn aside. The lessons He gave were full of knowledge for all who would attentively practice them.  {16MR 133.2}
[16MR 133.3]       Elmshaven, St. Helena Sanitarium, California, September 21, 1907            This is Sabbath morning, and I thank the Lord that I have slept more than usual. I generally have many wakeful hours. I feel great sorrow at times. My heart aches as I consider ［that］ the day of the Lord is coming as a thief in the night to all who are not watching and praying and working also. Luke 17:20-37. I read this. I can take it in a little, and my heart                                          -134-     is pained to see the great necessity that those who have the light shall walk in the footsteps of Jesus, and work out their own salvation with fear and trembling. I am so sorrowful that men placed in positions of responsibility do not understand their own defects of character, yet carry with them an officiousness that blinds their own judgment as to the work to be done for this time of peril.  {16MR 133.3}
[16MR 134.1]          St. Helena Sanitarium, California, September 28 ［27］, 1907          I thank the Lord this Friday morning ［that］ I have had the first good night's rest for weeks. I have spent hours in the night season pleading with God. I have been so very much surprised to see the spirit of dictatorial authority in men. It has seemed to me next to impossible to convince or convert the men who have received this kind of spirit, of its danger. Their own souls are in peril, but they perceive it not. What is lacking? Consecration of the heart to God.  {16MR 134.1}
[16MR 134.2]          I am not attending large meetings. I do not dare to take the time in traveling and the time occupied in large gatherings and neglect the writings which I am preparing to leave, that after my pen and my voice can no more be heard, then my writings will speak. I have not the least desire to speak in Oakland. I have done my full duty.  {16MR 134.2}
[16MR 134.3]         Elmshaven, St. Helena Sanitarium, California, October 29, 1907            I have slept quite well until past two o'clock. My mind is active. I cannot sleep as many hours as I would ［like］. ［I would］ be so thankful if I could sleep.  {16MR 134.3}
[16MR 134.4]          Elder Ballenger, Sister Gotzian, W. C. White, and I had quite a lengthy talk concerning Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Will it be wisdom to turn it                                          -135-     over to the conference now ［that］ the buildings are well prepared for convenience to give thorough treatment? We are the persons who have invested in the sanitarium, and at first they were unwilling to take it, but we think now that they will be willing. We then united in prayer, and then it was my bedtime. Took my bath and went to bed, and after a period of wakefulness, slept. The stars are shining brightly, and there is no fog or appearance of rain.  {16MR 134.4}
[16MR 135.1]          I am earnestly seeking the Lord. I must have His grace and rich light in order to understand the will of the Lord. We cannot afford to make one mistake now, and why should we? I am reading Ezekiel 20.--Ms 156, 1907.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 135.1}
[16MR 136.1]       MR No. 1203 - SDA Institutions to be Staffed by Talented Workers Who are Seeking to Improve Themselves         (Written November 28, 1886, from Basle, Switzerland, to "Dear Brethren Who Have the Responsibilities of the Work of God.")  {16MR 136.1}
[16MR 136.2]          I wish to present before you some things which burden my mind. From time to time I have felt urged by the Spirit of the Lord to bear a testimony to our brethren in regard to the necessity of procuring the very best talent to work in our various institutions and in the numerous other departments of our cause. Those who are thus connected with the work must be trained men, men whom God can teach and whom He can honor, as He did Daniel, with wisdom and understanding. They must be thinking men, men who bear God's impress, and who are steadily progressing in holiness, in moral dignity, and in the excellence with which they labor. If they are growing men, if they possess reasoning minds and sanctified intelligence, if they listen to the voice of God and seek to catch every ray of light from heaven, they will, like the sun, pursue an undeviating course, and they will grow in wisdom and in favor with God.  {16MR 136.2}
[16MR 136.3]         Heretofore the best ability has not been brought into the work of God. The publishing department is an important branch of that work, and all connected with it should feel that it is ordained of God, and that all heaven is interested in it. Especially should those who have a voice in the management of the work be men of breadth of mind and thorough intelligence. They should not waste their Lord's money by thoughtlessness or lack of                                          -137-     business tact; neither should they make the mistake of seeking to cheapen the work by introducing narrow plans and trusting the work to men of small ability.  {16MR 136.3}
[16MR 137.1]          I have been repeatedly shown that all our institutions need to have a different class of minds connected with them. They need to be managed by men who are spiritually minded and who will not weave their own defective ideas and plans into their management. This work should not be left to men who will mingle the sacred with the common, and who will regard the work of God as being upon about the same level as earthly things, and to be managed in the same cheap way that they have been in the habit of managing their temporal affairs. Now, until there can be those connected with our institutions who have breadth of mind and who can lay broad plans in harmony with the growth of the work and its exalted character, the tendency will be to cheapen everything that is undertaken, and God will be dishonored through it.  {16MR 137.1}
[16MR 137.2]          Oh, that all who have responsibilities to bear in connection with the cause of God would come up into a higher, holier atmosphere, where every true Christian should be. Then both they and the work which they represent would be elevated and clothed with the sacred dignity that heaven has ordained, and they would command the respect of all connected with the work in any of its branches.  {16MR 137.2}
[16MR 137.3]          There needs to be more thinking, more praying, men--men who will come up into the mount after God and view His glory and the dignity of the heavenly beings whom He has ordained to have charge of His work. Then they will, like Moses, follow the pattern given them in the mount, and there will not be a constant study to cheapen the work done for the God of heaven; but                                          -138-     the mind will be constantly on the alert to connect with that work the very best talent.  {16MR 137.3}
[16MR 138.1]          There have been among those employed in our institutions men who have turned from the true Counselor and manifested marked defects of character by not conforming to the great principle of right which God has laid down in His Word. As the result, the greatest work ever committed to mortals has been marred with man's defective management, whereas, if heaven's rules and regulations had been made the foundation principle, perfection would have marked the work in all its departments.  {16MR 138.1}
[16MR 138.2]          Those who are placed in leading positions in connection with our institutions should be men who have sufficient breadth of mind to respect those of cultivated intellect, and who will recompense them proportionately to the responsibilities they bear. True, those who engage in the work of the Lord should not do so merely for the wages they receive, but to honor God, advance His cause, and to obtain imperishable riches. At the same time we should not expect that those who are capable of taking hold of a work that requires thought and painstaking effort and of doing it with exactitude and thoroughness, should receive no greater compensation than the less skillful workman. A true estimate must be placed upon talent. Those who cannot appreciate true work and mental ability should not occupy the position of managers in our institutions, for their influence would tend to bind about the work, to erect barriers to its progress, and to bring it down to a low level.  {16MR 138.2}
[16MR 138.3]          If our institutions are ［to become］ as prosperous as God designs they shall be, there must be more thoughtfulness and earnest prayer, mingled with unflagging zeal and skillful labor. To connect this class of laborers with                                          -139-     the work may require a greater outlay of means. But while it is essential that economy be exercised in everything possible, it will be found that the efforts of some narrow minds to save means by employing those who will work cheap, and whose labor corresponds in character with the cheapness of their wages, will result in the end in their loss. The progress of the work will be retarded, and the cause belittled. You may economize, brethren, as much as you please in your personal affairs, in building your houses, in arranging your clothing, in providing your food, and in your general expenses, but do not bring this economy to bear upon the work of God in such a way as to hinder men of ability and true moral worth from engaging in it.  {16MR 138.3}
[16MR 139.1]          In the Olympic games to which the apostle Paul calls our attention, the racers were required to make most extensive preparations. For ten whole months and sometimes longer they were trained by different masters in physical exercises calculated to give strength and vigor to the body. They were restricted to that class of food which would keep the body in the most healthful condition, and the clothing was to be such as would leave every organ and muscle of the body untrammeled.  {16MR 139.1}
[16MR 139.2]          Now, if those who were to engage in running a race for earthly honor were obliged to submit themselves to such severe discipline in order to succeed, how much more necessary it is for those who are to engage in the work of the Lord to be thoroughly disciplined and prepared if they would succeed in that which they undertake. Their preparation should be as much more thorough, their earnestness and self-denying efforts as much greater, than those of the aspirants for worldly honors, as heavenly things are of more value than earthly. The mind as well as the muscles should be trained                                          -140-     to put forth the most diligent, persevering effort. The road to success is not a smooth way over which we are borne in rail cars, but it is a rugged path, filled with obstacles which can be surmounted only by patient toil.  {16MR 139.2}
[16MR 140.1]          It should be the constant study of all connected with our institutions to know how they can become more intelligent in the work in which they are engaged. None should rest in ease and inaction; but they should seek to elevate and ennoble themselves lest by their deficient understanding they should fail to realize the exalted character of the work, and lower it to meet their own finite standard.  {16MR 140.1}
[16MR 140.2]          My brethren, there has not been one half the care taken that there should have been to impress upon those who could labor in the cause the importance of qualifying themselves for the work. With their powers all undisciplined they can but do bungling work; but if they can be trained by godly teachers and by the power of God, they will not only be able to do good work themselves, but will give the right mold to others that are connected with them.  {16MR 140.2}
[16MR 140.3]          Our institutions are doing a great and final work for the world, and should have in their employ the very best talent to be obtained anywhere. I was shown the great deficiency there is in keeping the accounts in the various departments of the cause. Bookkeeping is and ever will be an important part of our work, and those who have become intelligent in it are greatly needed in all our institutions and in all parts of the missionary work. This branch of the work has been neglected shamefully, and altogether too long. It is a shame to allow a work of such magnitude to be done in a defective, bungling manner.                                             -141-  {16MR 140.3}
[16MR 141.1]          God wants as perfect work as it is possible for human beings to do. To do His work in a cheap, imperfect style is a dishonor to the sacred truth and its Author. We should feel that it is necessary for those who are to connect with the work to receive an education for it. Bookkeeping is a subject that needs to be studied in order that it may be done with correctness and dispatch, and without worry and taxation.  {16MR 141.1}
[16MR 141.2]          I was shown years ago that there will be dissension and a lack of harmony and unity of action among the workers in our institutions unless all are subject to the authority of God. He will stand as Commander, if each will obey His directions; but there must also be a visible head who fears God. The Lord will never accept a careless, disorderly company of workers; neither will He undertake to lead forward and upward to noble heights and certain victories those who are self-willed and disobedient. The soul's progress means the Saviour's rule. The heart through which He diffuses His peace and joy and the blessed fruits of His love, is the heart which becomes His temple and His throne. "Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you."  {16MR 141.2}
[16MR 141.3]          Our institutions are far beneath what God would have them, because those connected with them are not in fellowship with Him. They are not growing men. They are not ever learning of Jesus, therefore they are not becoming more and more efficient. If they would come close to Him and seek His help, He would walk with them and talk with them; He would be their Counselor in all things, and would grant to them, as He did to Daniel, heavenly wisdom and understanding.                                             -142-  {16MR 141.3}
[16MR 142.1]          Years ago I was shown that our people were far behind in attaining that knowledge which would qualify them to take positions of trust in the cause. Every individual member of the church should put forth efforts to qualify himself to do work for the Master. To each has been appointed a work, according to his ability. Even now, at the eleventh hour, we should arouse to educate men of ability for the work, that they may, while occupying positions of trust themselves, be educating by precept and example all associated with them.  {16MR 142.1}
[16MR 142.2]          There has been with some a selfish ambition to keep from others the knowledge they could have imparted. Others have not cared to tax themselves by educating any other workers. But this would have been the very best kind of work that they could have done for Jesus. "Ye are," says Christ, "the light of the world." For this reason we are to let our light shine to others.  {16MR 142.2}
[16MR 142.3]          I feel certain that if all the Lord has spoken in reference to these things had been heeded, our institutions would occupy today a higher, holier position. But men have chosen a low level. They have not sought with all their might to rise in mental, moral, and physical attainments. They have not felt that God required this of them, that Christ died that they might do this very work. As the result they are far behind what they might be in intelligence and in the ability to think and plan. They could have added virtue to virtue, and strength to strength, and thus have become strong men in the Lord. But this they failed to do. Let each go to work now with a firm determination to rise. The present need of the cause is not more men, but more man.--Letter 63, 1886.     Ellen G. White Estate, Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 142.3}
[16MR 143.1]       MR No. 1204 - The Church in the Home         Children have not been instructed as God has declared they should be. Blind affection has led many parents to walk contrary to the Word of God. Their spiritual eyesight has been blinded, and their children have grown up undisciplined and unrestrained, a care, a burden, and a reproach to those who should faithfully have trained them. Such children are described by the apostle Paul as being "disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce despisers of all that is good." ［SEE 2 TIMOTHY 3:3 IN A MODERN TRANSLATION.］  {16MR 143.1}
[16MR 143.2]         Fathers and mothers can clear themselves of responsibility for the corrupt actions of their own or their adopted children only by coming into the clear light of the Sun of Righteousness, seeing the great danger of their wrong course, repenting before God, and calling evil by its true name. Too often they compromise themselves by pursuing a vacillating course, or by endeavoring to cover up the wicked deeds of their children. The Lord calls for a work of purification to be done in His church. Those who remain on the side of Satan must be counted as workers of evil.  {16MR 143.2}
[16MR 143.3]          If ungrateful children are fed and clothed and allowed to go uncorrected, they are emboldened to continue in their course of evil. And inasmuch as their parents or guardians thus favor them and do not require obedience, they are partakers with them in their wicked deeds. Such children might just as well be with the wicked, whose iniquitous course they choose to follow, as to remain in Christian homes, to poison others. In this age of                                             -144-     wickedness every Christian must stand firm in condemnation of the evil, satanic actions of wayward children. Evil youth should not be treated as kind and obedient, but as disturbers of the peace and corrupters of their companions.  {16MR 143.3}
[16MR 144.1]          I ask God's people to come to their senses in regard to their home duties. There are Christian parents who do not discern that Satan is working cunningly to catch unwary souls. Unless fathers and mothers become converted, unless they prayerfully consider the home duties which they have to perform, which it is sinful negligence to leave undone, unless they work strenuously at every point to outgeneral the enemy, their hearts will be pierced with many sorrows, for their children will be a disgrace to them and to the church.  {16MR 144.1}
[16MR 144.2]          The heads of families need to be converted. Then they would make diligent efforts to redeem their past neglect. The father should feel that he is the house-band of the family. In this age of sin and intemperance, violence and crime, he should show his true interest in his household.  {16MR 144.2}
[16MR 144.3]          With what care parents should guard their children from careless, loose, demoralizing habits! Fathers and mothers, do you realize the importance of the responsibility resting on you? Do you allow your children to associate with other children without being present to know what kind of education they are receiving? Do not allow them to be alone with other children. Give them your special care. Every evening know where they are and what they are doing.  {16MR 144.3}
[16MR 144.4]          Are they pure in all their habits? Have you instructed them in the principles of moral purity? If you have neglected to teach them line upon                                             -145-     line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, let not another day pass without confessing to them your neglect to do this. Then tell them that you mean now to do your God-appointed work. Ask them to take hold with you in the reform. Let each help the other in the performance of duty.  {16MR 144.4}
[16MR 145.1]          We have come to a time when every member of the church needs to take hold of medical missionary work. On every hand we see those who have had much light and knowledge and all the advantages that could be given them, deliberately choosing evil in the place of righteousness, mercy, and the love of God. Making no attempt to reform, they are becoming agents of Satan, and are continually growing worse and worse.  {16MR 145.1}
[16MR 145.2]          Let our people show that they have an interest in medical missionary work. Let them study the books that have been written for our instruction in these lines. These books deserve much more attention, respect, and appreciation than they have received. I understand that Dr. Kellogg has published a new book, which has been written for the special purpose of instructing others in the health principles that it is for the advantage of all to understand. Those who follow these principles will be greatly blessed, both physically and spiritually. The understanding of the philosophy of health is true, sensible knowledge--knowledge that will be a safeguard against the evils that are continually increasing.  {16MR 145.2}
[16MR 145.3]         Many who desires to become intelligent in medical missionary lines have home duties that they cannot neglect. These may learn many things in their own home, thus increasing their ability to help others. Fathers and mothers, there is much that you may learn in regard to the expressed will of                                          -146-     God concerning true missionary work. Obtain all the help you can from the study of our books and publications. I see great advantage in every family's reading Good Health. It is full of valuable information. Let every family obtain instruction from this journal. It is a physician that you may always have in your home.  {16MR 145.3}
[16MR 146.1]          Fathers and mothers, take time to read to your children from the health books, as well as from the books treating more particularly on religious subjects. Teach your children the importance of taking care of the body--the house they live in. Form a home reading circle in which every member of the family lays aside the busy cares of the day and gathers for study. Fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, take up this work unitedly, and see if the home-church will not be greatly improved.  {16MR 146.1}
[16MR 146.2]          Especially should the young women who have been accustomed to read novels and cheap storybooks, join in the evening family study. The Lord has appointed them to be His helping hand. Young women, read the literature that will give true knowledge and that will interest the entire family. Say firmly, "I will not spend my precious moments in reading that which will be of no profit to me. I will devote my time to God's service. I will close my eyes to frivolous and sinful things. My ears are the Lord's property, and I will not take them where I shall hear the subtle reasoning of the enemy. My voice must not in any way be subject to a will that is not under the influence of the Spirit of God.  {16MR 146.2}
[16MR 146.3]          If in every church the young men and the young women would solemnly consecrate themselves to God, if they would practice self-denial in the home, relieving their tired, careworn mothers, what a change would take                                          -147-     place in our churches! The mother could find time to make neighborly visits. When opportunity offered, the children could give assistance by doing little errands of mercy and love to bless others. Thus thousands of the homes of the poor and needy not of our faith could be entered.  {16MR 146.3}
[16MR 147.1]          Books relating to health and temperance could be placed in many homes. The circulation of these books is an important work; for they contain precious knowledge in regard to the treatment of disease--knowledge that would be a great blessing to those who cannot afford to pay for the physician's visits or for the drugs which, even if obtained, would be only an injury.  {16MR 147.1}
[16MR 147.2]          I ask the church, Will you remain in the condition of the Laodicean church, or will you change your position? In the name of the Lord I call upon ［the members in］ every family to show their true colors. Reform the church in your own home. Let your conversation be pure and elevating.  {16MR 147.2}
[16MR 147.3]          Arouse, parents, and be converted! Let the light of your sanctification shine forth in clear, distinct rays. The great day of salvation has come. Those who humble themselves, repent, confess their sins, and draw near to God, will find that God will draw near to them. Let us fear to continue in transgression. Everywhere let it be known that it is the Father's will that everyone who seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, shall have everlasting life.  {16MR 147.3}
[16MR 147.4]          "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; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all                                          -148-     iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" ［Titus 2:11-14］.--Ms 119, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 147.4}
[16MR 149.1]       MR No. 1205 - Travels and Meetings in Oregon and Washington         (Written June 23, 1880, on the S. S. Oregon, en route from Portland to San Francisco, to "Dear Husband.")  {16MR 149.1}
[16MR 149.2]          We left Salem Monday, June 21, and I remained over a Sabbath and first day, longer than was anticipated. The Methodist minister's wife was determined I should speak in the Methodist church, and the officials sent me an invitation. After Elder Haskell left I spoke three times. The people came out well in the tent and the attention was excellent, although the evenings were very cool.  {16MR 149.2}
[16MR 149.3]          Sabbath I sought to have our Sabbathkeepers by themselves, and then bore to them testimonies given me of God for individual cases. This was an important meeting, and many confessions were made. Sunday evening the Methodist church, a grand building, was well filled. I spoke to about 700 people who listened with deep interest. The Methodist minister thanked me for the discourse. The Methodist minister's wife and all seemed much pleased.  {16MR 149.3}
[16MR 149.4]          We took the steamer Monday night. Elder Van Horn got off five dollars from each of our fares, which made our expenses both thirty dollars. The boat lay at Portland wharf during the night, and at 3:00 a.m. we were in motion; but after six hour's ride we stopped at Astoria, at the salmon cannery establishment, and here we remained from 9:00 a.m. until this morning. We shall cross the bar 20 miles from here at 12:00, and then our peace and quiet will be very much shaken up. We are here because the boat is loading on 22,000 boxes of canned salmon. Twenty men worked steadily all day yesterday                                          -150-     and away into the night putting these boxes on board. The weather is quite mild; no wind now, and the prospect is for having a favorable time. I hope so, for I have no strength to resist seasickness.  {16MR 149.4}
[16MR 150.1]          Elder MacClafflaty, of Oakland, introduced himself to me yesterday, and we had quite a chat. I am fully satisfied it was my duty to come to Oregon and to visit Washington Territory, but it has been a severe and trying time for me. If I ever worked earnestly, it has been on this journey. In Salem there is an earnest interest aroused. Some have taken their stand with us, and others are upon the point of deciding.  {16MR 150.1}
[16MR 150.2]          Elder Van Horn accompanied us to Portland. He returned yesterday to continue his labors. He is to visit. We urged him to this before he left, and he will keep it up now. We think personal effort will do more in such a place as Salem than pulpit effort. I think I never felt a greater burden than in Salem, or had a more solemn testimony to bear to the people. At every meeting when it was given out that I would speak, the tent seats were well filled. But evenings are so cold that it is almost dangerous to attend evening meetings in a tent.  {16MR 150.2}
[16MR 150.3]          How we shall find things when we arrive at Oakland, we cannot say. May the Lord make my duty plain. I believe He will, for I have not had a will of my own but I have inquired most earnestly to know the will of God, and then without murmuring have followed in the path of duty, often contrary to my wishes and inclination. Light will shine. I shall see my way clearly. I shall know the will of God.  {16MR 150.3}
[16MR 150.4]          One of the Methodist ministers said to Brother Levitt that he regretted Mrs. White was not a staunch Methodist, for they would make her a bishop at                                           -151-     once; she could do justice to the office. I have spoken in Walla Walla three times, at Milton ten, at Beaverton one, at Portland three, at Salem camp meeting and after, twelve times at length, beside many times from 15 to 20 minutes. Sunday night we had a full house, and although I was weary the Lord strengthened me to bear a faithful testimony to the people.  {16MR 150.4}
[16MR 151.1]          I have been feeling very exhausted. There is an inability to think; weakness generally. I may rally after a few days' rest, but I cannot tell. I sometimes fear to cross the plains and go from a cool climate to a hot one, but what can I do? This is my study. If you were here we would go out on some excursion and camp out away from everything that would bring care. But I cannot feel like doing this at all, not for a moment, even with families, for I feel such a sadness at the thought. It would do me no good.  {16MR 151.1}
[16MR 151.2]          I may be directed east to the camp meetings, but if I do not see plain duty I shall not go. I will do as you have suggested: remain in California until you come. But if the Lord sends me east, He will sustain me.  {16MR 151.2}
[16MR 151.3]          I am feeling at times great weariness. I have carried heavy burdens. I have had to bear very plain testimonies to others. I have written many private testimonies to different ones, then to keep my writings up has been no little tax to me. Were you here now I would feel it duty to take some recreation--go to Yosemite and camp out, or go to some retired place and write and rest. Time seems very short to me, and I do not want to shirk responsibilities one whit. If I know what duty is, I will do it.--Letter 33a, 1880.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 151.3}
[16MR 152.1]       MR No. 1206 - Selection of the School Land at Cooranbong         We are very grateful to our God that the land that has been cleared and cultivated in the school ground has produced such excellent fruit and vegetables. Our hearts have been made sad by the false witness which has been borne. This has not helped us to battle with the discouragements which we were compelled to wrestle with. When every voice and pen should have been engaged in encouraging us and lifting up our hands, reports that were false were sent to our friends in Africa, placing in a wrong light the efforts made by those who were struggling to clear and break the land preparatory to setting in the trees.  {16MR 152.1}
[16MR 152.2]          This work has cost money, and the lack of means to advance the cause of God has been sorely felt; but it was those who invested nothing in the trial, but who were paid for all the labor which they did, who carried unfavorable reports wherever they went, of mismanagement, miscalculation, and unwise investment of means. This is a great enterprise. Before we came upon the land a man from America was requested to come and act as manager of the financial part of the work; but for some reason he did not come, and we had to do the best we could.  {16MR 152.2}
[16MR 152.3]          How much easier it is to criticize and pick flaws and tell what should be done, than to unselfishly lay hold of the work and devote to it our capabilities and talents. One who had means, and who could have helped us when everything went hard, refused to work because we could not afford to pay him the wages he asked. Men who were coach-builders by trade, and who had large families to support, worked for less than one dollar per day.                                          -153-     while the brother who had come, as we supposed, as a missionary, did nothing. For three months he sat on the enemy's stool of indolence because he could not have the wages he desired, and the enemy kept him busy watching and criticizing, talking of his great knowledge and of the value of his work, while others did everything in their power to follow the light God had given, giving of their time and means to push the work and make it a success.  {16MR 152.3}
[16MR 153.1]          Before I visited Cooranbong, the Lord gave me a dream. In my dream I was taken to the land that was for sale in Cooranbong. Several of our brethren had been solicited to visit the land, and I dreamed that I was walking upon the ground. I came to a neat-cut furrow that had been plowed one quarter of a yard deep and two yards in length. Two of the brethren who had been acquainted with the rich soil of Iowa were standing before this furrow and saying, "This is not good land; the soil is not favorable." But One who has often spoken in counsel was present also, and He said, "False witness has been borne of this land." Then He described the properties of the different layers of earth. He explained the science of the soil, and said that this land was adapted to the growth of fruit and vegetables, and that if well worked it would produce its treasures for the benefit of man. This dream I related to Brother and Sister Starr and my family.  {16MR 153.1}
[16MR 153.2]          The next day we were on the cars, on our way to meet others who were investigating the land; and as I was afterward walking on the ground where the trees had been removed, lo, there was a furrow just as I had described it, and the men also who had criticized the appearance of the land. The words were spoken just as I had dreamed.                                          -154-  {16MR 153.2}
[16MR 154.1]          After we had returned to the cottage rented by one of the brethren for the time we should spend in investigating the land, a council was held, and the decision made to take the land. Elder McCullagh was among the number. He had brought his spring cot with him, purposing to remain for a time and see what the climate would do for him. He was suffering from severe inflammation of the throat and stomach, and did not dare to use the vocal organs.  {16MR 154.1}
[16MR 154.2]          In the morning we had a season of prayer. The Lord gave me the burden of prayer for Brother McCullagh, and the blessing of the Lord came into our midst. The room seemed to be flooded with the glory of God, and our brother was healed. He said that the soreness was all gone, and he repaired at once to his home in Parramatta, and continued his labor for months without any difficulty. It seemed as if this was the seal of God upon the decision made.  {16MR 154.2}
[16MR 154.3]          But after this there was a change in the minds of the brethren. They objected to the land, and kept searching for a better location; but in every place there was something objectionable, and they could not come to a decision. I was so sure that the Lord was leading us to locate on these grounds that I told my son Willie and my brethren that I would pay the price for the land myself; then, if they did not want it, I would settle upon it some of our poor brethren who were crowded into the cities. I would make homes here for those who could not make homes for themselves. But this proposition was not acceptable, and for a year the work was greatly hindered by the unbelief of those who should have had faith.  {16MR 154.3}
[16MR 154.4]          The land was accepted. We now have a home upon the land, and what has been done speaks for itself. The land speaks for itself. The trees that were planted the last of September bore fruit in less than two years. The                                          -155-     most beautiful peaches I have ever looked upon and most delicious to the taste, many of them weighing one half-pound each, have been produced on the land. From the first crop many of the peaches were picked off, for we feared that it would hurt the trees to let them bear so early. This last season our peach trees were so loaded with fruit that we had to prop up the branches. We have had all the vegetables we wanted for our own use, and have supplied the family of W.C.W. and Brother James, our farm manager. The orchard at the school bore well, and the fruit was of a good flavor.  {16MR 154.4}
[16MR 155.1]          When our trees were first planted, we had no rain for many months, but with careful attention they nearly all lived. During the past season, while the countries ［country areas］ around us have been without rain, we have had all we needed. We visited Melbourne the last of February, and after we had passed a few stations near Sydney, the whole country presented a charred and burned appearance. They had had no rain, and everywhere the cattle were suffering for water and food. In Melbourne the cattle were poor and the paddocks almost without a green thing in them. All through Victoria was this drought felt; but this country has had showers when needed; the grass is green, and everything is pleasant to the eye. We thank the Lord that we are located just where we are, and that we have been blessed by Him.  {16MR 155.1}
[16MR 155.2]          Three school buildings are already completed, and the meetinghouse is erected. We went forward in faith, and the Lord honored our faith. The word came to me from the Lord, "Arise, and build a house for the Lord, and build without delay." In His providence there was just at that time carpenters who were not engaged at their business, and these were employed. All donated liberally of their time, and worked at reduced wages. In eight                                           -156-     weeks the meetinghouse was built. We know that the angels of the Lord were with the workers. When hindrances seemed to arise, Elder Haskell would encourage the workers. He would propose a season of prayer, and all would leave their work. And as they called upon the name of the Lord the Holy Spirit of God softened and subdued the hearts of the workers.  {16MR 155.2}
[16MR 156.1]          Just before the first term of school closed, this house was dedicated to God, and there has not been as favorable a time since to erect a building. We rejoice now that we see the chapel full of students who are accommodated with a good, pleasant, convenient place of worship.  {16MR 156.1}
[16MR 156.2]          We are sorry, very sorry, because of the reports that have gone out to distant countries who cannot see for themselves the truth of this matter. Especially were we sorry for the reports that were carried to Africa, and the unfavorable reports that were made upon the minds of those who had the greatest interest in this place. We wish them to understand that the means invested is not lost nor used unadvisedly. As far as location is concerned, we are in the best place we could have selected.  {16MR 156.2}
[16MR 156.3]          The Lord is good, merciful, and forbearing. The works of creation reveal His character. "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth His handywork." It is man, formed in the image of God, who does not magnify the Lord of Hosts in contemplating the love of God and the perfection of His law. We may now see that the transgression of the law of God has been bringing upon the world God's displeasure. If he will, man may read in the natural world nature's testimony to the result of man's transgression of the law of Jehovah.  {16MR 156.3}
[16MR 156.4]          We are located far from the city, and in this we see the providence of God. All who come to Avondale School are pleased with the location, and we hope that all the letters sent by the students to their parents will be of a character to encourage the hearts of the parents. We all want to work unitedly for the glory of God.--Ms 62, 1898.     Ellen. G. White Estate, Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 156.4}
[16MR 157.1]       MR No. 1207 - Opponents to be Treated Courteously: Gifts From Men in High Places Not to be Refused         (Written from "Norfolk Villa," Granville, NSW, January 30, 1895, to Elder S. N. Haskell. ［SEE A. L. WHITE, THE AUSTRALIAN YEARS, PP. 183-186, FOR A DISCUSSION OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES THAT LED ELLEN WHITE TO WRITE THIS LETTER.］)  {16MR 157.1}
[16MR 157.2]         We have just received letters from you, and Willie has just read them to Brother Sisley and myself. I regard your reasoning and statements as correct. I am very much pained as I see how readily 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 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. All sharp thrusts will come back upon us in double measure when the power is in the hands of those who can exercise it for our injury.  {16MR 157.2}
[16MR 157.3]         Over and over the message has been given to me that we are not to say one word, not to publish one sentence, unless positively essential in vindicating the truth, that will stir up our enemies against us, and arouse their passions to a white heat. Our work will soon be closed up, and soon the time of trouble such as never was will come upon us, of which we have but little idea.  {16MR 157.3}
[16MR 157.4]          Writers and speakers among us will have to learn that the highest obligations of the Christian life involve the giving of careful attention in heeding the messages that God has sent to us. It is essential that we have a knowledge of our own motives and actions in order to have constant                                           -158-     self-improvement. I long to see men in responsible positions feeling the burden in regard to themselves, so that they will exercise Christian politeness, and speak and write in a courteous manner. The Lord wants His workers to represent Him, the great Missionary Worker. The manifestation of zeal and rashness always does harm. The proprieties essential for Christian life must be learned daily in the school of Christ. He who is careless and heedless in uttering words or in writing words for publication to be sent broadcast into the world, is disqualifying himself to be entrusted with the sacred work which devolves upon Christ's followers at this time. Those who practice giving hard thrusts are forming habits that will have to be repented of. To discharge every duty that devolves upon those who are entrusted with sacred responsibility, in the right manner, calls for humble prayer, and a close examination of self and study of the life of Christ.  {16MR 157.4}
[16MR 158.1]          A surgeon, a physician, a teacher, a guide, needs to study carefully and attentively the way in which to do the work which is entrusted to his hands. How much more should those who are entrusted with the sacred responsibility to watch for souls as they that must give an account, study to work in harmony with the truth and in accordance with the wisdom which is from above, which is "first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace" ［James 3:17, 18］.  {16MR 158.1}
[16MR 158.2]          I am pained when I see the sharp thrusts which appear in the Sentinel. I speak to my brethren who are communicating with the people through that paper: It is best for you to be as wise as serpents and as harmless as                                           -159-     doves. We should carefully and severally examine our ways and our spirits, and see in what manner we are doing the work given us of God, which involves the destiny of souls. The very highest obligation is resting upon us. Satan is standing ready, burning with zeal, to inspire the whole confederacy of satanic agencies, that he may cause them to unite with evil men and bring upon the believers of truth speedy and severe suffering. Every unwise word that is uttered by our brethren will be treasured up by the prince of darkness. But I would like to ask, How dare finite human intelligences speak careless and venturesome words that will stir up the powers of hell against the saints of God when "Michael the archangel . . . durst not bring against him ［Satan］ a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee" ［Jude 9］?  {16MR 158.2}
[16MR 159.1]          It will be impossible for us to avoid difficulties and suffering. Jesus said, "Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!" ［Matthew 18:7］. But because offenses will come, we should be careful not to stir up the natural temperament of those who love not the truth, by unwise words and by the manifestation of an unkind spirit. The truth works by love, and purifies the soul. It is the privilege and duty of every child of God to have spiritual apprehension.  {16MR 159.1}
[16MR 159.2]          If we are children of the light we should walk in the light as Christ is in the light, and testify before the world, before angels and men, that the truth has power to transform human character and to cause men to represent Christ. With David our testimony should be, "Thy gentleness hath made me great." Oh, that we might have divine perceptions, and be able to appreciate the holy, sacred efficiency of the truth which fell from the lips                                           -160-     of Christ! Oh, that a permanent impression might be made upon the hearts of all!  {16MR 159.2}
[16MR 160.1]          The words Christ has spoken, the spirit He has revealed in all His lessons to His disciples, are as the bread of life, the flesh and blood of the Son of God. He said, "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life" ［John 6:63］. But all He has said is contested by the confederacy of evil; nevertheless precious truth must be presented in its native force. The deceptive errors that are widespread and that are leading the world captive, are to be unveiled. Every effort that is possible is being made to ensnare souls with subtle reasonings, to turn them from the truth to fables, and to prepare them to be deceived by strong delusions.  {16MR 160.1}
[16MR 160.2]          But while these deceived souls turn from the truth to error, do not speak to them one word of censure. Seek to show these poor, deluded souls their danger, and ［seek］ to reveal to them how grievous is their course of action toward Jesus Christ; but let it all be done in pitying tenderness. By a proper manner of labor some of the souls who are ensnared by Satan may be recovered from His power. But do not blame and condemn them. To ridicule the position held by those who are in error will not open their blind eyes, nor attract them to the truth.  {16MR 160.2}
[16MR 160.3]          The followers of Christ may receive divine illumination daily, and have clear conceptions of the great mercy and love of God toward us poor sinners. As we behold the love of Christ, we shall begin to reflect it. "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" ［2 Corinthians 4:6］. In Christ are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. How are they hid? Under the veil of humanity and deep humiliation.                                          -161-     The abundance of his knowledge covers all the treasures of wisdom; for in Christ all fullness dwells.  {16MR 160.3}
[16MR 161.1]                                  Example of Christ          When men lose sight of Christ's example, and do not pattern after His manner of teaching, they become self-sufficient, and go forth to meet Satan with his own manner of weapons. The enemy knows well how to turn his weapons upon those who use them. Jesus spake only words of pure truth and righteousness. It was He who inspired prophets and holy men of old, and they spake as they were moved upon by the Holy Spirit. But Christ was superior to the prophets, in that He was the Author of eternal salvation, the Originator of all that they have written and spoken, and in His example He has left us a perfect model for faith and practice.  {16MR 161.1}
[16MR 161.2]          If ever a people needed to walk in humility before God, it is His church, His chosen ones in this generation. We all need to bewail the dullness of our intellectual faculties, the lack of appreciation of our privileges and opportunities. We have nothing whereof to boast. We grieve the Lord Jesus Christ by our harshness, by our unChristlike thrusts. We need to become complete in Him. It is true that we are commanded to "cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins." This message must be given. But while it must be given, we should be careful not to thrust and crowd and condemn those who have not the light that we have. We should not go out of our way to make hard thrusts at the Catholics. 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.                                          -162-  {16MR 161.2}
[16MR 162.1]          Those who have had great privileges and opportunities, and who have failed to improve their physical, mental, and moral powers, but who have lived to please themselves, and have refused to bear their responsibilities, are in greater danger and in greater condemnation before God than those who are in error upon doctrinal points, yet who seek to live to do good to others, corresponding to the knowledge which they have. Do not censure others, do not condemn them. As free moral agents under the government of God, our responsibility and obligation are not limited by the knowledge we actually possess, but the knowledge we might and ought to have had if we had advanced in faith, and obtained the rich Christian experience that would have corresponded with our advantages.  {16MR 162.1}
[16MR 162.2]          We should improve our faculties, and we shall be held accountable for their improvement. They are a sacred trust, and if we do not use them properly, if we do not educate ourselves to trust in God, to believe and practice His word, we shall be held accountable. If we allow selfish considerations, false reasoning, and false excuses to bring us into a perverse state of mind and heart, so that we shall not know the ways and will of God, we shall be far more guilty than the open sinner. We need to be very cautious in order that we may not condemn those who before God are less guilty than ourselves.  {16MR 162.2}
[16MR 162.3]          Willie, Brother Rousseau, and Sister Bree came from Melbourne last Friday. Willie had been away several weeks attending the convention at Melbourne. Sister Rousseau is staying with us. After the Sabbath the usual inflowing came for council meetings and so forth. My home is the only place in which the people can be accommodated for these meetings. Brother Colcord                                          -163-     came from Melbourne on Monday. Doctor M. G. Kellogg has made his home with us for some time, by special invitation. There is no place in which to entertain our people but at my home. Last night we lodged seventeen persons. They report this morning that they have all rested well.  {16MR 162.3}
[16MR 163.1]          Your letter only came today, and at a time when a number were about to leave our house to take passage on a steamer from Sydney to New Zealand. It was to sail at four P.M. Elder Corliss and his wife, Brother Colcord, Sister Bree, and Willie are among its passengers. Brother Sisley will go to New Zealand one week from today. Willie told me that a boat would leave for Cape Town, Africa, tomorrow. This gives me but little time in which to write to you, but I will send you copies of letters that are of importance to all.  {16MR 163.1}
[16MR 163.2]          You inquire in respect to the propriety of receiving gifts from Gentiles or the heathen. This question is not strange; but I would ask you, Who is it that owns our world? Who are the real owners of houses and lands? Is it not God? He has an abundance in our world which He has placed in the hands of men by which the hungry might be supplied with food, the naked with clothing, the homeless with homes. The Lord would move upon worldly men, even idolaters, to give of their abundance for the support of His work, if we would approach them wisely, and give them an opportunity of doing those things which it is their privilege to do. What they would give we should be privileged to receive.  {16MR 163.2}
[16MR 163.3]          We should become acquainted with men in high places and, by exercising the wisdom of the serpent and the harmlessness of the dove, we might obtain advantages from them, for God would move upon their minds to do many things                                          -164-     on behalf of His people. If proper persons would set before those who have means and influence the needs of the work of God in a proper light, these men might do much to advance the cause of God in our world. We have put away from us privileges and advantages that we might have had the benefit of, because we chose to stand independent of the world. But we need not sacrifice one principle of truth while taking advantage of every opportunity to advance the cause of God.  {16MR 163.3}
[16MR 164.1]          The Lord would have His people in the world but not of the world. They should seek to bring the truth before the men in high places, and give them a fair chance to receive and weigh evidence. There are many who are unenlightened and uninformed, and as individuals we have a serious, solemn, wise work to do. We are to have travail of soul for those who are in high places, and go to them with the gracious invitation to come to the marriage feast. Very much more might have been done than has been done for those in high places. The last message that Christ gave to His disciples before He was parted from them and taken up into heaven was a message to carry the gospel to all the world, and was accompanied by the promise of the Holy Spirit. The Lord said, "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and you shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."  {16MR 164.1}
[16MR 164.2]          "The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof." "The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine, saith the Lord of hosts." "Every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are Mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is Mine, and the fullness thereof."                                          -165-  {16MR 164.2}
[16MR 165.1]          There is a great work to be done in the earth, and the Lord Jesus has taken men into copartnership with Himself, in order that heavenly agencies may cooperate with human agencies. Christ was in travail of soul for the redemption of the world, and those who are laborers together with God are representatives of Christ to our world, and will have compassion for the lost, and will travail in soul for the redemption of men. Unless the church awakes and stands to her post of duty, God will charge the loss of souls to her account. I have a deep interest that the work of God shall advance.  {16MR 165.1}
[16MR 165.2]          Those who are the chosen of God are required to multiply churches wherever they may be successful in bringing souls to the knowledge of the truth. But the people of God are never to collect together into a large community as they have done in Battle Creek. Those who know what it is to have travail of soul will never do this, for they will feel the burden that Christ carried for the salvation of men.  {16MR 165.2}
[16MR 165.3]          Everyone who is chosen of God should improve his intellectual powers. Jesus came to represent the character of the Father, and He has sent His disciples into the world to represent the character of Christ. He has not given us His word to point out the way of life and left us simply to carry that word, but has also promised to give the word efficiency by the power of the Holy Spirit. Is there need, then, that anyone should walk in uncertainty, grieving that they do not know and experience the movings of the Holy Spirit upon their hearts?  {16MR 165.3}
[16MR 165.4]          Are you hungering and thirsting for instruction in righteousness? Then you have the sure promise that you shall be filled. "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know Him                                         -166-     that is true, and we are in Him that is true, even in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life" ［1 John 5:20］.  {16MR 165.4}
[16MR 166.1]          The Lord would have us in possession of the spirit of heavenly wisdom. Are we all being impressed to pray to the Lord humbly and earnestly as our necessities require, importuning Him for the spirit of wisdom? Do we pray, saying, "Show me the secrets of wisdom. That which I know not, teach Thou me"? Oh, for humble, earnest prayer to go forth from unfeigned lips praying for the counsel that is of God! He says, "Counsel is Mine, and sound wisdom."  {16MR 166.1}
[16MR 166.2]                                     January 31          Yesterday some of the company who have been entertained at our house made their departure. Brother Colcord, W. C. White and Sister Bree who has been attending school in Melbourne, all departed for New Zealand. Brother Lawrence, Brother Sisley, and Brother Rousseau leave today for Dora Creek. Doctor Kellogg and Sister Rousseau are still here. We shall keep a free hotel as long as we are living in Granville; for there is no other way to do. We shall have to have council meetings and committee meetings at our home, and those who come to these meetings must be entertained at our house and sit at our table. We like to have them here, but it is almost a constant draft upon us.  {16MR 166.2}
[16MR 166.3]          I hope that you will not let the things that have come out in the Sentinel dishearten you. It is Satan's purpose to dishearten you concerning these matters. But you must hold fast to the hand of infinite power. The Lord has greatly blessed you; do not in any way be affected when you think that thrusts are made at you. Solemn, serious times are upon us, and                                         -167-     perplexities will increase to the very close of time. There may be a little respite in these matters, but it will not be for long.  {16MR 166.3}
[16MR 167.1]          I have letters to write that must go in the next mail to Battle Creek. Our brethren there are not looking at everything in the right light. The movements they have made to pay taxes on the property of the Sanitarium and Tabernacle have manifested a zeal and conscientiousness that in all respects is not wise or correct. Their ideas of religious liberty are being interwoven with suggestions that do not come from the Holy Spirit, and the religious liberty cause is sickening, and its sickness can only be healed by the grace and gentleness of Christ.  {16MR 167.1}
[16MR 167.2]          The hearts of those who advocate this cause must be filled by the Spirit of Jesus. The great Physician alone can apply the balm of Gilead. Let these men read the book of Nehemiah with humble hearts touched by the Holy Spirit, and their false ideas will be modified, and correct principles will be seen, and the present order of things will be changed. Nehemiah prayed to God for help, and God heard his prayer. The Lord moved upon heathen kings to come to his help. When his enemies zealously worked against him, the Lord worked through kings to carry out His purpose and to answer the many prayers that were ascending to Him for the help which they so much needed.  {16MR 167.2}
[16MR 167.3]          I am often greatly distressed when I see our leading men taking extreme positions, and burdening themselves over matters that should not be taken up or worried over, but left in the hands of God for Him to adjust. We are yet in the world, and God keeps for us a place in connection with the world, and works by His own right hand to prepare the way before us in order that His                                         -168-     work may progress along its various lines. The truth is to have a standing place, and the standard of truth is to be uplifted in many places in regions beyond.  {16MR 167.3}
[16MR 168.1]          Be sure that God has not laid upon those who remain away from these foreign fields of labor the burden of criticizing the ones who are on the ground where the work is being done. You need not be so zealous to get into the hands of worldly men God's own money of which they have been robbing Him all their lives. Those who are not on the ground know nothing about the necessities of the situation, and if they cannot say anything to help those who are on the ground, let them not hinder but stand out of the way and give the Lord a chance to work with people. Let them show their wisdom by the eloquence of silence, and attend to their work that is close at their hand. I protest against the zeal that they manifest that is not according to knowledge when they ventilate their ideas about foreign fields of labor. When they shall be sent to their foreign fields it will then be time for them to attend to the work God has assigned them.  {16MR 168.1}
[16MR 168.2]         Let the Lord work with the men who are on the ground, and let those who are not on the ground walk humbly with God, lest they get out of their place and lose their bearings. The Lord has not placed the burden of criticizing the work upon those who have taken this burden, and He does not give them the sanction of His Holy Spirit. Many move according to their own human judgment, and zealously seek to adjust things that God has not placed in their hands. Just as long as we are in the world, we shall have to do a special work for the world, and yet not be contaminated with the spirit of the world. The message of warning is to go to all countries, tongues, and peoples.                                         -169-  {16MR 168.2}
[16MR 169.1]          The Lord does not move upon His workers to make them take a course which will bring on the time of trouble before the time. Let them not build up a wall of separation between themselves and the world by advancing their own ideas and notions. There is now altogether too much of this throughout our borders. The message of warning has not reached large numbers of the world in the very cities that are right at hand, and to number Israel is not to work after God's order. There is abundance of earnest work in cities that have not been worked. Let your pen and voice work to enlighten these souls in simple, stirring articles upon faith and love.  {16MR 169.1}
[16MR 169.2]         Just as long as we are in this world, and the Spirit of God is striving with the world, we are to receive as well as to impart favors. We are to give to the world the light of truth as presented in the sacred Scriptures, and we are to receive from the world that which God moves upon them to do in behalf of His cause. God has not closed the door of mercy yet. The Lord still moves upon the hearts of kings and rulers in behalf of His people, and it becomes us who are so deeply interested in the religious liberty question not to cut off any favors, or withdraw ourselves from the help that God has moved men to give for the advancement of His cause.  {16MR 169.2}
[16MR 169.3]          We find examples in the word of God concerning this very matter. Cyrus, king of Persia, made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it into writing, saying, "Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The Lord God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and He hath charged me to build Him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you of all His people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the Lord God of                                         -170-     Israel" ［Ezra 1:2, 3］. A second commandment was issued by Darius for the building of the house of the Lord, and is recorded in the sixth chapter of Ezra.  {16MR 169.3}
[16MR 170.1]          The Lord God of Israel has placed His goods in the hands of unbelievers, but they are to be used in favor of doing the work that must be done for a fallen world. The agents through whom their gifts come, who open up avenues through which the truth may go, may have no sympathy with the work, and no faith in Christ, and no practice of his words; but their gifts are not to be refused on that account. The Holy Ghost strives with hearts of the so-called great men of earth. He is drawing them until they have light, and when convicted turn from fables to the light of truth.  {16MR 170.1}
[16MR 170.2]          It is very strange that some of our brethren should feel that it is their duty to bring about a condition of things that will bind up the means that God would have set free. God has not laid upon them the responsibility of coming in conflict with the authorities and powers of the world in this matter. This business is not to close up the avenues. Let the Lord work in that line. The restraining hand of God has not yet been withdrawn from the earth. The four angels are holding the four winds. Let the leaders in the work bide their time, hide in Christ, and move and work with great wisdom. Let them be as wise as serpents and as harmless as doves. I have repeatedly been shown that we might receive far more favors than we do in many ways if we would approach men in wisdom, acquaint them with our work, as though we had a right to expect them to help in the best and greatest enterprise in our world, and give them an opportunity of doing those things which it is our privilege to induce them to do for the advancement of the work of God. --Letter 11, 1895.     Ellen G. White Estate, Washington, D. C. September 2, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 170.2}
[16MR 171.1]       MR No. 1208 - A Dream of Angels, God's People, and Salvation         A dream the Lord gave me August 22. I dreamed of being in a wagon with Brother Rhodes and James, and we were to pass a bridge covered with water. As we passed over the bridge I was much frightened, for the water came into the body of the wagon and it seemed that we were sinking. I had my babe with me and I was so frightened I almost let him fall into the water. Brother Rhodes assured me a number of times that there was no danger and that we must necessarily pass through the water over the bridge.  {16MR 171.1}
[16MR 171.2]          After we had passed safely through the water, my eyes were attracted to something strange in the air. I saw angels marching through the air singing with solemn, clear voices, "For the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?" Their voices rang through the air. Upon their shoulders they had mantles that reached to their feet. Brother Rhodes began to shout with a loud voice and said, "And shall I see Him whom my soul loveth?"  {16MR 171.2}
[16MR 171.3]          James was counting the angels, and I stood trembling with fear. My life came up before ［me］ and looked so full of wrongs I could not see how I should be able to stand. Just then Satan came where I was and said to me, "You are lost; you are now my property ［and］ will go with me to the dark regions." My feelings I cannot describe. To be separated from the Jesus I had loved and to take up my abode with those that I abhorred looked dreadful to me. At the same time, I felt unworthy to be with the lovely Jesus.  {16MR 171.3}
[16MR 171.4]          While in this dreadful perplexity one of the angels came where I was and said to Satan, "She is not your property, for she has been redeemed unto God                                        -172-     by the precious blood of Jesus. She is the purchase of His blood." Satan fled. My feelings changed. My soul was overflowing with gratitude and thankfulness to God. I saw the saints as there fell ［on them］ and was reflected from the face of Jesus, light. Their faces would light up as they rose to meet the angels.  {16MR 171.4}
[16MR 172.1]          Many I saw sleeping. I said as I saw those poor souls, "They have heard of Jesus' coming and that ［the］ great day of God's wrath ［is］ just upon them, but as time went on a little longer than they expected it would, they have lost their interest. Stupidity has crept over them, and now they slumber never to awake. They ought to have watched, and then they would have seen the angels."  {16MR 172.1}
[16MR 172.2]          This dream has made quite an impression upon my mind.--Ms 6, 1850.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 172.2}
[16MR 173.1]       MR No. 1209 - Counsels to Our Colporteurs Regarding Carefulness in Diet  (Cir. 1889)         If you are a Bible doer as well as a Bible reader, you must understand from the Scriptures that swine's flesh was prohibited by Jesus Christ enshrouded in the billowy cloud. This is not a test question. Directions have been given to families that such articles as butter and the eating largely of flesh meats is not the best for physical and mental health. Fruits and grains and vegetables would, if cooked properly and eaten in moderate quantities, be proper articles of diet.  {16MR 173.1}
[16MR 173.2]          No eating should be allowed between our meals. I have eaten two meals each day for the last 25 years. I do not use butter myself, but some of my workers who sit at my table eat butter. They cannot take care of milk; it sours on the stomach. But they can take care of a small quantity of butter. We cannot regulate the diet question by making any rule. Some can eat beans and dried peas, but to me this diet is painful. It is like poison. Some have appetites and taste for certain things, and assimilate them well. Others have no appetite for these articles. So one rule cannot be made for everyone.  {16MR 173.2}
[16MR 173.3]          You ask in regard to canvassers who travel and have to eat bread with swine's flesh in it. I see here a serious difficulty, but there is a remedy. Learn to make good, hygienic rolls and keep them with you. You can generally obtain hot milk, or at least a cup of hot water with milk, and this, with fruit or without fruit, will nourish the system. Many plans may be devised with some little tact and labor, that many difficulties in the line of eating unwholesome food may be overcome. I advise every Sabbath-keeping canvasser to avoid meat eating, not because it is regarded as sin to eat meat, but because it is not healthful. The animal creation is groaning.--Ms 15, 1889.     Ellen G. White Estate, Wash. D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 173.3}
[16MR 174.1]       MR No. 1210 - Statement on the Day and Hour of Christ's Coming         (Written Aug. 11, 1888, at Healdsburg, Calif., to "My dear Sister.")  {16MR 174.1}
[16MR 174.2]          I received your letter this morning, and will reply briefly. I have no recollection of receiving a letter of the character you mention. I will look through my writings when I have more time.  {16MR 174.2}
[16MR 174.3]          I have been pressed beyond measure of late. I returned to my Healdsburg home to rest and to take care of my harvest of fruit--peaches, plums, nectarines, and pears--and as we could not sell them we have been obliged to dry them.  {16MR 174.3}
[16MR 174.4]          There has been quite an interest in Healdsburg among outsiders to hear Mrs. White speak, and I have been the only one in the place to speak to the people upon the Sabbath and First-day evening. We have had good attendance. Last Sabbath two Methodist ministers were present; also a professor who has long been connected with some institution of learning but is now laboring in Mexico as a missionary. And a prominent man, an agent for the home for the homeless in San Francisco, attended our meetings. The two last mentioned have become deeply interested in the Sabbath. The Lord has given me largely of His Holy Spirit, for which I praise His name.  {16MR 174.4}
[16MR 174.5]          This is an important place. Our school is here established, and we have a new church erected. Two large canneries are in active operation, which bring in workers from surrounding towns, and here is a missionary field. Our brethren and sisters work in the canneries and are associated                                        -175-     with those over whom they can exert an influence. We have seen plenty of opportunities to labor in the Master's vineyard. I think I have not attended so excellent a social meeting here as we had last Sabbath. The Lord was indeed present, and that to bless.  {16MR 174.5}
[16MR 175.1]          But I am wandering from my subject. Dear Sister, you state that "some claim among other things that there is dishonesty in suppressing your former writings." Will those who say these things please give proof of their statements? I know that this has been often repeated but not proved. "Claiming that in your original testimonies, volume 1, which they have preserved, you distinctly declare that you were shown the day and hour of Christ's second coming. Their argument is that this statement of yours will not stand the Bible test, as Christ Himself declares that no man knoweth the day or the hour, no not even the angels of God, hence ［you］ have withdrawn the first editions and revised them leaving out the above; also printed a tract declaring we are not a class of people who set the time. (Entitled Is The Time Near?)"  {16MR 175.1}
[16MR 175.2]          Will these good friends who are troubled concerning these statements please ask the individuals who claim to have the original copy of ［the］ first edition to let them see the statement they claim it contains? If they have the book, they should be willing to show the statements, paragraph by paragraph. I have no book, and never have written one, containing any such statement. And any book I might send you, the parties might claim was not the one containing the said statement. But if parties claim to have such a book, certainly someone who thinks these statements correct could have access to it.                                         -176-  {16MR 175.2}
[16MR 176.1]          In my first book you will find the only statement in regard to the day and hour of Christ's coming that I have made since the passing of the time in 1844. It is found in Early Writings, pages 11, 27, and 145, 146 ［pages 15, 34, and 285, present edition］. All refer to the announcement that will be made just before the second coming of Christ.  {16MR 176.1}
[16MR 176.2]          By turning to page 145 ［page 285, present edition］ and reading from the commencement of the chapter you will see that the statements made refer to the deliverance of the saints from the time of trouble by the voice of God. Please obtain this book if you do not have it, and read the statements therein. They are just as printed from the first article published. "The sky opened and shut, and was in commotion." "The mountains shook like a reed in the wind, and cast out ragged rocks all around. The sea boiled like a pot, and cast out stones upon the ground. And as God spoke the day and hour of Jesus' coming, and delivered the everlasting covenant to His people, He spoke one sentence and then paused while the words were rolling through the earth."  {16MR 176.2}
[16MR 176.3]          This is a portion of the paragraph. The statements on pages 11 and 27 ［pages 15 and 34, present edition］, refer to the same time. They contain all that I have ever been shown in regard to the definite time of the Lord's coming. I have not the slightest knowledge as to the time spoken by the voice of God. I heard the hour proclaimed, but had no remembrance of that hour after I came out of vision. Scenes of such thrilling, solemn interest passed before me as no language is adequate to describe. It was all a living reality to me, for close upon this scene appeared the great white cloud, upon which was seated the Son of man. But read the book itself.                                         -177-  {16MR 176.3}
[16MR 177.1]          It was this oft-repeated charge of suppression that led us to determine to gather up all my earliest publications and republish ［them］ in the book called Early Writings by Mrs. E. G. White. We printed this little book to be scattered everywhere that all might, if they chose, become acquainted with facts. But this did not--only for a time--quite their reports. They came again just as fresh as if that book had never been printed.  {16MR 177.1}
[16MR 177.2]          I was a firm believer in definite time in 1844, but this prophetic time was not shown me in vision, for it was some months after the passing of this period of time before the first vision was given me. There were many proclaiming a new time after this, but I was shown that we should not have another definite time to proclaim to the people. All who are acquainted with me and my work will testify that I have borne but one testimony in regard to the setting of the time.  {16MR 177.2}
[16MR 177.3]          I have been shown that our disappointment in 1844 was not because of failure in the reckoning of prophetic periods, but in the events to take place. The earth was believed to be the sanctuary. But the sanctuary which was to be cleansed at the end of the prophetic periods was the heavenly sanctuary and not the earth as we all supposed. The Saviour did enter the most holy place in 1844 to cleanse the sanctuary, and the investigative judgment had commenced for the dead.  {16MR 177.3}
[16MR 177.4]          I have been repeatedly urged to accept the different periods of time proclaimed for the Lord to come, ［but］ I have ever had one testimony to bear: the Lord will not come at that period, and you are weakening the faith even of Adventists, and fastening the world in their unbelief.  {16MR 177.4}
[16MR 177.5]          There have been plainly set before me events of great and thrilling interest, which must transpire before Christ will come. Satan will move                                         -178-     mightily from beneath, and will delude the world, while the Lord God Omnipotent will move from above and prepare a people to stand in the great day of His wrath.  {16MR 177.5}
[16MR 178.1]          The time-setters have pronounced the curse of the Lord upon me as an unbeliever who said, My Lord delayeth His coming. But I have told them that the books of heaven would not make my record thus, for the Lord knows that I loved and longed for the appearing of Christ. But their oft-repeated message of definite time was exactly what the enemy wanted, and it served his purpose well to unsettle the faith in the first proclamation of time, that was of heavenly origin.  {16MR 178.1}
[16MR 178.2]          The world placed all time proclamation on the same level and called it a delusion, fanaticism, and heresy. Ever since 1844 I have borne my testimony that we were now in a period of time in which we are to take heed to ourselves lest our hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon us unawares. 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 the Lord's coming. We do not know the day nor the hour, or when the definite time is, and yet the prophetic reckoning shows us that Christ is at the door.  {16MR 178.2}
[16MR 178.3]          We have not cast away our confidence, neither have we a message dependent upon definite time, but we are waiting and watching unto prayer, looking for and loving the appearing of our Saviour, and doing all in our power for the preparation of our fellow men for that great event. We are not impatient. If the vision tarry, wait for it, for it will surely come; it will not tarry. Although disappointed, our faith has not failed, and we                                         -179-     have not drawn back to perdition. The apparent tarrying is not so in reality, for at the appointed time our Lord will come, and we will, if faithful, exclaim, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us."  {16MR 178.3}
[16MR 179.1]          I have also been pronounced a deceiver because I have said, "The Lord will soon come; get ready, get ready, that ye may be found waiting, watching, and loving His appearing." But in the Revelation I read this statement, "Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be." "Behold, I come quickly: Blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book." "Behold, I come quickly: Hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown." Was the One who bore this testimony a deceiver, because the "quickly" has been protracted longer than our finite minds could anticipate? It is the faithful and true Witness that speaks. His words are verity and truth.  {16MR 179.1}
[16MR 179.2]          If I have failed to make this matter plain which you wish to understand, write me again and I will endeavor to make every point plain and clear. But I must plead not guilty to the charge of seeing in vision that the Lord would ［come］ at a definite day and hour, which has since passed by. I must now close this letter. I have been interrupted many times to give counsel to those who ［have］ called me.  {16MR 179.2}
[16MR 179.3]          May the Lord bless you and your dear friends, is my prayer.--Letter 38, 1888.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 179.3}
[16MR 180.1]       MR No. 1211 - Christ's Humiliation         Christ's humiliation is not understood and not appreciated. Forty days and nights Jesus was subjected to the temptations of the enemy--the one who was once an angel next to Christ in majesty and glory in the heavenly courts. It is stated, Thou wast exalted because of thy beauty, et cetera. But he wanted to have the place of Christ, and Christ was one with the Infinite God; and because this was not accorded him, he became jealous, and he was the originator of sin.  {16MR 180.1}
[16MR 180.2]         Satan wished to change the government of God, to fix his own seal to the rules of God's kingdom. Christ would not be brought into this desire, and here the warfare against Christ commenced and waxed strong. Working in secrecy but known to God, Lucifer became a deceiving character. He told falsehood for truth.  {16MR 180.2}
[16MR 180.3]          He was expelled from heaven, and apparently Christ was alone with him in the wilderness of temptation. Yet He was not alone, for angels were round Him just as angels of God are commissioned to minister unto those who are under the fearful assaults of the enemy. Christ was in the wilderness with the one with whom there was war in heaven, and the one whom He overcome; and Satan was defeated.  {16MR 180.3}
[16MR 180.4]          Now Satan meets Him under different circumstances, as the glory that was round about Him is no longer visible. He has humbled Himself, taken upon Himself our nature. And He came into the world to stand at the head of humanity whom Satan had deceived, and to fight His battles in behalf of the race whom Satan has deceived through his lying power. This whole effort was to draw                                          -181-     Christ away from His allegiance to God, to undermine in a deceptive way His principles and His allegiance to the Lord God.  {16MR 180.4}
[16MR 181.1]          What mental anguish Christ passed through! What grief! What torture of mind! He was face to face not with a hideous monster, as is represented with bat's wings and cloven feet, but a beautiful angel of light, apparently just from the presence of God. His deceiving power was so great that a third of the heavenly angels were induced to believe him to be right and unite with him against God and His Son Jesus Christ. And now Satan's personal contact in this world with Christ was of a most determined character, for if he succeeded here in his strong and wily efforts he was conqueror and the prince of the world. He knew that all his claims to the kingdoms of the world were false and could not be sustained unless he should overcome Christ.  {16MR 181.1}
[16MR 181.2]         It is impossible to take in the depth and the force of these temptations unless the Lord shall bring man where He can open these scenes before him by a revelation of the matter, and then it can only be but partially comprehended. Satan's assaults were prepared for the circumstances in accordance with the exalted character with which he had to deal. If he ［could］ gain the victory in the first temptation, he would secure Him on all the rest. Satan had never aimed his darts at so strong a mark.  {16MR 181.2}
[16MR 181.3]          Our Lord's trial and test and proving shows that He could yield to these temptations, else the battle was all a farce. But He did not yield to the solicitude of the enemy, thus evidencing that the human nature of man, united with the divine nature by faith, may be strong and withstand Satan's temptations.  {16MR 181.3}
[16MR 181.4]          Christ's perfect humanity is the same that man may have through connection with Christ. As God, Christ could not be tempted any more than He was not                                          -182-     tempted from His allegiance in heaven. But as Christ humbled Himself to the nature of man, He could be tempted. He had not taken on Him even the nature of the angels, but humanity, perfectly identical with our own nature, except without the taint of sin. A human body, a human mind, with all the peculiar properties, He was bone, brain, and muscle. A man of our flesh, He was compassed with the weakness of humanity. The circumstances of His life were of that character that He was exposed to all the inconveniences that belong to men, not in wealth, not in ease, but in poverty and want and humiliation. He breathed the very air man must breathe. He trod our earth as man. He had reason, conscience, memory, will, and affections of the human soul which was united with His divine nature.  {16MR 181.4}
[16MR 182.1]          Our Lord was tempted as man is tempted. He was capable of yielding to temptations, as are human beings. His finite nature was pure and spotless, but the divine nature that led Him to say to Philip, "He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father" also, was not humanized; neither was humanity deified by the blending or union of the two natures; each retained its essential character and properties.  {16MR 182.1}
[16MR 182.2]          But here we must not become in our ideas common and earthly, and in our perverted ideas we must not think that the liability of Christ to yield to Satan's temptations degraded His humanity and He possessed the same sinful, corrupt propensities as man.  {16MR 182.2}
[16MR 182.3]          The divine nature, combined with the human, made Him capable of yielding to Satan's temptations. Here the test to Christ was far greater than that of Adam and Eve, for Christ took our nature, fallen but not corrupted, and would not be corrupted unless He received the words of Satan in the place of the words of                                          -183-     God. To suppose He was not capable of yielding to temptation places Him where He cannot be a perfect example for man, and the force and the power of this part of Christ's humiliation, which is the most eventful, is no instruction or help to human beings.  {16MR 182.3}
[16MR 183.1]         But the facts of this history are not fable, but a living, acting, experience. ［To deny this］ would rob Jesus of His greatest glory--allegiance to God--which enshrouded Him as a garment in this world on the field of battle with the relentless foe, and He is not reckoned with the transgressor. He descended in His humiliation to be tempted as man would be tempted, and His nature was that of man, capable of yielding to temptation. His very purity and holiness were assailed by a fallen foe, the very one that became corrupted and then was ejected from heaven. How deeply and keenly must Christ have felt this humiliation.  {16MR 183.1}
[16MR 183.2]          How do fallen angels look upon this pure and uncontaminated One, the Prince of Life, through the different stages of His humiliation? They look upon the scene, the Son of the living God humiliated to take upon Himself the nature of man and meet the strong man armed with all his weapons of deception and falsehood to overcome Jesus Christ. And every victory gained, how precious it is in behalf of the human family, exalting, elevating, ennobling the workmanship of God; and Satan has been at work for centuries, degrading, debasing, and prostituting all his powers to do his hellish work.  {16MR 183.2}
[16MR 183.3]          The humanity of Christ received the fallen foe and engaged in battle with him. He was sustained in the conflict by divine power just as man will be sustained by his being a partaker of the divine nature. He gained victory after                                          -184-     victory as our Champion, the Captain of our salvation, and the divine approval of God and all the universe of heaven flowed into His soul. His nature was shocked almost unto death, but the heavenly angels ministered unto the suffering One.  {16MR 183.3}
[16MR 184.1]          All heaven rejoiced because humanity, the workmanship of God, was placed in an elevated scale with God by the signal victory gained. Christ was more than conqueror, leaving the way open that man may be more than conqueror through Christ's merits, because He loved him. The Son of the infinite God is brought into the tenderest sympathies with the tempted church. He knows how to succor those who shall be tempted, because He was Himself tempted.--Ms 57, 1890. (Transcribed from Diary Book No. 14, pp. 272-283; 293-295.)     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. September 2, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 184.1}
[16MR 185.1]       MR No. 1212 - Beginning the Work at Washington, D. C.; Counsel on Home Life         (Written May 10, 1904, from Carroll House, Takoma Park, D. C., to "Dear Brother ［Iram］ James.")  {16MR 185.1}
[16MR 185.2]          I have just read your letter to Willie. Thank you for writing. You will not be surprised when I tell you that I miss you all very much. Separation does not mean forgetting.  {16MR 185.2}
[16MR 185.3]          I am glad to hear that you have bought a horse, and that you are pleased with him. I hope that he will work as well in the buggy as he does on the farm.  {16MR 185.3}
[16MR 185.4]          Could you not try the Hizerman boy on the farm? I am anxious that he shall be helped. But do as your judgment says in regard to this.  {16MR 185.4}
[16MR 185.5]          It seems very much like home here, with open ground all around us, and the cherry trees in full bloom behind the house. But we cannot look forward to having sweet corn and tomatoes from the place as we could were we at home. But we will not wish ourselves at home. We must feel grateful for this pleasant place. Still, it is well that no others came with us. They would miss the conveniences and comforts of home.  {16MR 185.5}
[16MR 185.6]          The work on our buildings ［ACCORDING TO THE REVIEW AND HERALD, APRIL 28, 1904, THE "BUILDINGS" INCLUDED "THE SANITARIUM, TRAINING-SCHOOL, AND GENERAL CONFERENCE OFFICES IN WASHINGTON, D. C."］ will soon begin in earnest. It has taken till the end of last week to get all the business arrangements completed, leaving nothing at loose ends. We hope that now steady advancement will be                                        -186-     made. Four good horses have been purchased to do the teaming and the necessary work on the land to prepare it for the buildings.  {16MR 185.6}
[16MR 186.1]         I pray that the Lord will help in every line of work, in every business transaction, that the principles of Christ may be carried out. There must be no unfair dealing. God's workers are to do to others as they would be done by. It has been most painful to see those who profess to believe present truth following in their business transactions a course directly opposed to the directions that the Lord gave Moses to give to the children of Israel. We are to carry out these principles. We are to be representatives of truth and righteousness. We are called to be sons and daughters of God, to live the Christ-life.  {16MR 186.1}
[16MR 186.2]          May the Lord bless you abundantly, my brother, in your home. The charge I have to give you is: Do not load yourself down with so many burdens that you will fail to do your duty to your children. I do not write these words as a reproach, but as a reminder. If anything must be neglected, let it be the care of inanimate things. Keep your own soul fresh and pure and uplifted. If you give your children the attention they need, some things may have to be neglected. Then let them be. Your children are building characters for time and for eternity, and you must make no mistakes in dealing with them. Be assured that I will not censure you for anything left undone on the farm.  {16MR 186.2}
[16MR 186.3]          May the peace of God abide in your home. May His blessing rest upon your little flock. They are lambs of His fold, and must be nurtured and                                        -187-     cherished. Do not overwork. Do not strain every nerve and muscle to try to do everything that there is to do on the farm, but get help.  {16MR 186.3}
[16MR 187.1]          May the Lord abundantly bless you and your wife and children.--Letter 159, 1904.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. September 2, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 187.1}
[16MR 188.1]       MR No. 1213 - Each Follower of Christ is Called to Work; All are to Copy Christ, the Pattern; Harmony to Prevail         (Written at South Lancaster, Massachusetts, November 27, 1901.)          Sunday the 24th was a rainy, disagreeable day. I was surprised at the attendance in the hall in New York City. There was a very much larger number than we could reasonably have expected. I spoke from 1 John 3. The Lord gave me freedom in speaking His word. The blessing of the Lord seemed to attend the word spoken. May the Lord bless the hearers.  {16MR 188.1}
[16MR 188.2]          We need now as never before to call attention to the words, "Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth." What the Lord inscribed upon His temple was in perfect harmony with His plan. His invitation is to go forth to all places of the earth. Unlimited was His invitation of mercy. "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people; it shall proclaim that I am now on My throne, giving audience to the world." Let the people praise Thee, O God, let all the people praise Thee. And let the whole earth be filled with Thy glory.  {16MR 188.2}
[16MR 188.3]         God calls upon you, a church that has been blessed with the truth. Thus saith the Lord, "This people have I formed for Myself; they shall show forth My praise." God has given the most sacred, solemn message of warning to His appointed agencies. They were His chosen representatives to an apostate world. It was an impossibility for the church, to whom had been entrusted the greatest truths ever given to our world, to represent and maintain these truths but by revealing themselves as a distinct existence. ［They were to be］ separate from the idolatrous nations that were deep in apostasy and idolatry, and present a character for excellence and entire                                        -189-     obedience, teaching the highest standard of spirituality, far, far above all worldly policy and all idolatry.  {16MR 188.3}
[16MR 189.1]          How would it be possible to maintain their integrity for truth and righteousness, and present to the world the divine benevolence of our God, but by cooperating with God and becoming channels of light to all nations of the earth? Then what if they venture to lower the standard to a cheap level? The mission of Christ, from the heavenly courts to His death upon the cross, embraces in it the true, unchanging principle that should be developed in every mission that shall be entered upon and established by all who believe in Jesus Christ. Through the grace and the gift of the Holy Spirit is the great promise to be fulfilled in the Christian endeavors of every company of believers associated together in church capacity.  {16MR 189.1}
[16MR 189.2]         All are to make it their Christian practice to exhibit to a world dead in trespasses and sins, the great and heavenly principles of the love of Christ for one another, although they are not assigned the same class of labor, but all working intelligently to advance the work in their line. The example of Christ can never be equaled, for the Saviour of the world worked out an example for every living creature in the world in regard to the principles of that heavenly country from which He came. ［He］ set us all an example in obeying the laws of that better country and the city He has builded for all who will be obedient to the laws of God. Christ gave His life to make it possible in our humanity to meet the conditions that will give all an entrance into that city whose builder and maker is God.  {16MR 189.2}
[16MR 189.3]          Now, cannot we see the obligation every soul is under who has decided to take the name of Christian, to set ourselves to the exalted possibility of answering the character of excellence in humanity that we shall reveal                                        -190-     Christ's character in our works, showing that we are appointed His chosen representatives to an apostate world? "We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation)" (2 Corinthians 6:1).  {16MR 189.3}
[16MR 190.1]          Bear in mind ［that］ the Now is ever and ever the eternal Now. There is no tomorrow that is ours. This whole chapter, from the first verse to the last, is of great importance. These conditions are scarcely thought of as principles that in no case should be neglected.  {16MR 190.1}
[16MR 190.2]          "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). 1 John 3:1-5.  {16MR 190.2}
[16MR 190.3]          The formation of the Christian church, and the union of all that it embraces, and preserving the consecration of all its powers as the appointed agencies of God for the spiritual recovery of the moral image of God in man, was the object of Christ ［in］ assuming human nature. Christ was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy, which was the symbol prescribed in type for the religious faith and obedience of all people.  {16MR 190.3}
[16MR 190.4]          "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." The Lord our Redeemer had not yet demonstrated fully that love to its completeness. After His condemnation in the judgment hall, His crucifixion on the cross, when He cried out in a clear, loud voice, "It is finished," that love stands forth as an exhibition of a new love--"as I have loved you"--is demonstrated. Can the human mind take this in? Can we obey the commandment given?                                             -191-  {16MR 190.4}
[16MR 191.1]          Christ requires nothing of any soul that it is not possible for him to do. "By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another." "If ye love Me, keep My commandments." "He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him. . . . If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him" (John 14:21, 23).  {16MR 191.1}
[16MR 191.2]          "Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples. As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love. If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you" ［John 15:8-12］.  {16MR 191.2}
[16MR 191.3]          This love among brethren is of the greatest consequence for the prosperity of the church. Satan knows this, and he is ready with his temptations of selfishness, working in them a spirit of envy, jealousy, evil surmisings. "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" ［John 17:20, 21］.  {16MR 191.3}
[16MR 191.4]          Here is the strength of Christ's prayer for unity: "That the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory ［character］ which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. ［Wonderful request; it seems almost too great for expectation!］ I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that                                             -192-     Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me" ［verses 21-23］.  {16MR 191.4}
[16MR 192.1]         Then why is there not a practical carrying out of this principle of love? Christ gave His own life for the life of the world. "Therefore doth My Father love Me, because I lay down My life for the sheep." Why do not these words of Christ stir our souls with intense desire to love one another as He has loved us? Christ engaged in covenant with God the Father to represent the love of God in His humanity for the fallen race. Christ knew that this great display of the grace of God, which He Himself engaged to represent--nothing less could represent that love of infinity than in giving His own Son to save the guilty sinner. Christ undertook the plan when He knew all things, that nothing else than the infinite capabilities that made Him equal with the Father could possibly express the plan unless He became one with humanity, taking upon Him the nature of man, and thus bearing all the temptations as man, and dying that man might live through faith in His redeeming power.  {16MR 192.1}
[16MR 192.2]          ［Hebrews 2:7-11, 17, 18; 4:14-16, quoted.］        "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry ［of contention and alienation and strife? No, no］ of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to                                        -193-     God. 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 5:17-21).  {16MR 192.2}
[16MR 193.1]         I wish to say that no human language could be framed to give a just conception of the fullness of the love of God, even the Infinite God, ［who］ suffered in His Son; and nothing He could express in His words or actions in doing and suffering could possibly exaggerate the conception of the grace of that great love of God wherewith He hath loved us. Now, what is required of every child of God? To search diligently "and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice" ［Matthew 9:13］. Will all ［respond］ individually who claim to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour--all who truly believe Christ has developed the same in His individual members of His body, to multiply the similitude of His character in them?  {16MR 193.1}
[16MR 193.2]          As God made Christ His messenger to the world, Christ has made all who claim Him as their Redeemer, to represent Christ in mercy, forgiveness, and pardon, to the world. Now, in every generation Christ has required that all who believe in His name should become His witnesses, bearing His message to the world, and expressing His character. All of us are pledged to do, in our individual instrumentality, for Christ, what Christ did in His human life here upon the earth as the Sent of God for the representation of the Father. All are to represent the goodness of God in His compassion and His love. They are channels of light, light bearers to the world. Graciously has the Lord made them partakers of the divine nature through Christ.  {16MR 193.2}
[16MR 193.3]          The Lord requires that each one, as their pattern of life, shall ［be］ drawn out in love to the perishing world. They are to go forth as God's                                           -194-     watchmen, representing the quickening, vivifying influence of the power of the truth. He withheld nothing; He gave His own self. "He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed." He endured the cross, despising the shame. Oh, the riches of the love of God is beyond our computation! Now the Lord expects ［this love to be revealed］ through the persevering efforts made in behalf of the salvation of souls ready to perish in their ignorance and unbelief and sin. We are individually under bonds to God to convey the message of truth, and His followers are to express to their fellow men that mysterious love which Christ expressed to a world. When they are thus imbued with His Spirit, they will be messengers to bear the life-giving message to the world, that Christ is waiting to receive them, to pardon their transgressions and sins. Many are saying, Oh, that I might find Him! They need the words and compassion and sympathy of one who has found Him precious to their souls.  {16MR 193.3}
[16MR 194.1]          Tell the poor, perishing sinner the story of His love. The Saviour has given Himself to bring light and salvation to you, and now He says, I give you as My representative to the world; consider yourself as dedicated to My service. Speak tenderly, pityingly; tell them the glad tidings of Christ and His love; express your love in unselfish, Godlike deeds to save perishing souls.  {16MR 194.1}
[16MR 194.2]          The wicked, selfish, loveless spirit that has come into the church puts Christ to open shame. Look at the cities in New England. How long have they laid waste? And yet the message of God has come that the church ［members］ that believe advanced truth are to labor most earnestly, with the                                            -195-     Holy Spirit of God, for the conversion of the ministry, and many will be converted who are willing to set them to work, who are willing to take them, instruct them, pray for them and with them.  {16MR 194.2}
[16MR 195.1]          Christ's field was the world. He shall embrace the world of sin. That is the work of the Holy Spirit through the human agencies in bearing to them the life-giving message. Church members, I call upon you. Are you converted? What was the instrumentality that was to be employed? Whose voice is to proclaim the all-important message to our world, that they may be convinced of sin? God calls upon all to act a part, and tax their resources to the uttermost. God has His workmen. He has been using them in the great city of New York.  {16MR 195.1}
[16MR 195.2]          Brother and Sister Haskell have been working. God has worked with them. They have not had an easy time, by any means. Sister Haskell has stood by the side of her husband as a faithful worker together with him. She has watched lest her husband become worn out with constant anxiety and labor, and when this became apparent, she has added his labors and appointments to her labor, for she was stronger than he was. These two faithful servants worked with us in Australia, and they are now working in New York City by the appointment of God; and their mission place is not the most lovely and quiet place in the world. The workers connected with them are receiving an experience, growing in knowledge and grace.  {16MR 195.2}
[16MR 195.3]          While at the General Conference the destitute fields were laid out before me--what should have been done in the Lord's vineyard in sowing the seed of truth, that there should be a harvest to reap in these large cities.  {16MR 195.3}
[16MR 195.4]          Elder Franke has been laboring in New York City for the worldlings and all who would hear the message, and a number embraced the truth; but other                                       -196-     gifts were needed to engage in the same kind of mission work which has been ［carried on］ in Australia. I said to Elder Haskell, Will you go and take hold of the work in New York City after the conference? He said he had a burden for New York City, and if I would come and bear ［the］ testimony the Lord has given to me, to those who were professing to believe the truth, he would take hold in New York. I consented to do this after the conference should close; but my work was marked out to visit Indiana, Des Moines, College View, Denver, Colorado, and Oregon. I had appointments in this round of meetings, and then attended the camp meeting in Oakland. So it was made impossible for me to go to New York as I had purposed to do.  {16MR 195.4}
[16MR 196.1]          But my burden did not leave me. I had a message to the believers in New York City, that all who are truly converted unto the proclamation of the third angel's message must not present to the world, to angels, and to men, division in the place of unity. The truth of God sanctifies the receiver to be a channel and representative of His grace to the world and to angels and to men. All who are called ［are］ prepared and aided by one Agency. From one great and powerful Source there would be love and unity; their Christian instrumentality to be proved and to glorify God in love and harmonious action, each strengthening the other and each taking diligent heed to his own course of action in the great and solemn work before them in presenting the sanctifying truth to souls ready to die.  {16MR 196.1}
[16MR 196.2]          All who should receive the truth in the love of the principles of the truth would make straight paths for their feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. Many for want of meekness and humility and wholehearted kindness, would consider themselves independent atoms, or, as in the days of the apostle Paul, would consider they were to link up with the one man under                                      -197-     whose labors they received the light of present truth. 1 Corinthians 3. This whole chapter was the education the apostle was trying to give to those who claimed to believe, and yet a strong spirit had taken possession of them. He did not give them up and let them alone as irreclaimable, but tried to bring them to a better understanding of the spirit that should control their actions as believers in Christ Jesus.  {16MR 196.2}
[16MR 197.1]          All who placed themselves on the side of the one who brought to them light and truth, and refused to be in harmony with their brethren, were not being sanctified through the truth. 1 Corinthians 3:1. The difficulty is plainly stated to warn all believers off this dangerous ground. Those who suppose that they are cemented to the man who brought them the truth, and tie up in separate bundles, need a reconversion as soon as possible, else their claimed conversion is a stumblingblock to sinners.        ［2 Corinthians 3:1-5, quoted.］  {16MR 197.1}
[16MR 197.2]          "Do we begin again to commend ourselves? ［as though such a strange thing was essential?］ or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart" ［2 Corinthians 3:1-3］. Read Romans 12:3-5.  {16MR 197.2}
[16MR 197.3]          "I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase" ［1 Corinthians 3:6］. These were men ordained of God as His helping hand to do this work; if they became exalted because of their success, and lifted up their souls unto vanity, the Lord would remove their light from them. "So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither is he that watereth; but God that                                      -198-     giveth the increase" ［verse 7］. Now the wise conclusion: "Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are laborers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building" ［verses 8, 9］.  {16MR 197.3}
[16MR 198.1]         Here is our subject matter. "Let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ" ［verses 10, 11］. Shall one draw apart from his brother for no other reason, only his own misconceived opinions? Would he not much better go apart for himself and think soundly what he is doing in estranging himself from his brethren? This is a much more inconsistent thing to persist in handling, for if he begins in self-confidence to build after certain notions of his own plans and his own desires, without reference to his brethren, he will bring in material and lay on the foundation a mass of suppositions of his own, which is only rubbish.  {16MR 198.1}
[16MR 198.2]         ［1 Corinthians 3:12-15, 18-20, quoted.］        Let us humble our hearts before God, and be very careful not to judge our brethren because they do not consider all our words and spirit and actions perfection.  {16MR 198.2}
[16MR 198.3]          "Therefore let no man glory in men." ［1 Corinthians 3:21-23;  4:1-5, quoted.］ "And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another ［showing and talking your preferences, comparing one with another to the detriment of the one you do not prefer］. For who maketh thee to differ from another?" And now comes the grave question: "And what hast thou that                                       -199-     thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hast not received it?" ［verses 6, 7］.  {16MR 198.3}
[16MR 199.1]         May the Lord help all who receive the truth to open their minds and hearts to receive, likewise, the beauty and loveliness of the virtues of the truth, and practice the truth as well as being advocates of the truth. Christ's practice is to become our practice. So vast was His conception of the love of God that He did not describe it but lived and practiced this love.  {16MR 199.1}
[16MR 199.2]          What efforts are we putting forth as the believers of unpopular truth, in self-denial, in self-sacrifice? We can never equal the Pattern, because it is infinite goodness practiced in His human nature, ［yet］ we should make determined efforts with all the powers of our being to follow His example. Hear His words: "He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." Having given His life to save the world from ruin, if they would be saved in God's way, ［their hope lay］ in obeying the laws of His kingdom. The Lifegiver expects all His followers to be faithful stewards of the grace of God, to live for the same object, to do according to His appointed will, and to be His human helping hand to save perishing souls.  {16MR 199.2}
[16MR 199.3]          As to our work: We are entrusted with the grace of God, and our commission is to resemble Him, making it our first business and calling to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Read Acts carefully. Theirs ［the believers］ was the highest expectation of the fulfillment of the promise. Ten days were devoted to most earnest prayer, and they were in this time searching their own hearts, to put away everything that should                                       -200-     hinder the fulfillment of the promise. "Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a Sabbath day's journey" ［Acts 1:12］. "These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brethren" ［verse 14］.  {16MR 199.3}
[16MR 200.1]         "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" ［Acts 2:1-4］.  {16MR 200.1}
[16MR 200.2]          There was the power of heaven as if this greatness of influence had for ages been under restraint, and now the time had come, and all the universe of heaven rejoiced in being able to communicate and pour down from heaven the riches of the power upon the church, to be transferred to the world. And what followed? Thousands were converted in a day. The sword of the Spirit in the Word of God was indeed newly edged with power, and, bathed in the lightnings of heaven, cut its way through unbelief.  {16MR 200.2}
[16MR 200.3]          The seed sown by Christ in His mission work with His disciples needed no other evidence than that the words spoken by the disciples found entrance to their minds and hearts, and through these mighty agencies the world was to be convinced of sin. Bear in mind, when heavenly influences came into the heart, all found a field ready to be harvested. Particular fields of labor were opened to be worked, and all found ［that］ wherever they went in Christ's name, the Holy Spirit opened the hearts and doors for                                           -201-     the disciples. All were of one mind, and all felt that their resources must be taxed to the utmost of their ability. A work was before them to preach Christ and Him crucified through the whole world. One subject was the theme for all who should work the works of Christ, as His representatives to as many as would believe on Him. They were of one heart and one mind, and daily they were adding new territories as their fields of labor.  {16MR 200.3}
[16MR 201.1]          Those who had accepted the influence of priests and rulers, and united with them in opposing the claims of Christ, were now soundly converted to the faith. And what was the design of the Spirit in all this? "He shall not speak of Himself." "He shall testify of Me." "He shall glorify Me." As the Saviour came to our world to glorify the Father by the demonstration of His infinite love, so the Holy Spirit came to glorify Christ.  {16MR 201.1}
[16MR 201.2]          The world's eye must rest on Christ as the Creator of man and as the Redeemer of man. The sphere of ［that］ Man's influence is to belt the world; He shall convince the world of sin. The work of the gospel message must go forth, to bear the truth before them, to convince the world of sin, the most convincing power that humanity ［can exercise］ under the influence of heavenly principles.  {16MR 201.2}
[16MR 201.3]          "The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one mind" ［Acts 4:32］. The Spirit of Christ animated and made strong and earnest workers of all ［who were］ of one heart and of one mind. The Lord was magnified. Now there is just as much necessity for believers to put their whole being in communion with God, pleading the promise, "Ask, and ye shall receive." "Every one that asketh receiveth." Here is the connection: Asking, believing, and receiving. All who receive Christ by faith are to be channels to carry the living truth to the world.                                         -202-  {16MR 201.3}
[16MR 202.1]          What is the promise to those living in these last days? "Turn ye 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］.  {16MR 202.1}
[16MR 202.2]         The world must have evidence, and be convinced of sin, and then the Lord will receive the repentant, and condemn the despisers of His mercy. God's mighty hand is stretched out still to save all who come unto Him. Our people who claim to believe the truth, and all who see and understand, are accountable to God for the knowledge they have of past and future events, and they are to be lightbearers to the world. There is every promise made that they shall receive of Christ, and, filled with His Spirit, work as cooperating with God. He requires everyone who knows the truth to influence the entire church to unity of action, to do the truth.  {16MR 202.2}
[16MR 202.3]          The absence of a single means which might have been employed and is not, whatever the hindrance, is committing robbery toward God in standing in the way of sinners that might be labored for, and are left out without help. There are those who have kept back workers because it takes money to feed and support them. How much better would it be to devise methods whereby these souls should have the truth that are praying for light? And God has promised the influence of the Holy Spirit to accompany the teacher in any line he may work; but He regards ［or "takes note of"］ all you that believe and fear your prospects will not stand as favorable if more workers are encouraged.  {16MR 202.3}
[16MR 202.4]          We see these destitute cities in the South, unworked. What an account will those have to give who have felt at liberty to use means to add                                          -203-     building to building, and bring upon themselves the rebuke of God, which is upon every soul that has not done to the extent of his powers to encourage with words and means, workers to go out into the waste places of the Lord's vineyard!  {16MR 202.4}
[16MR 203.1]          Christ had a mission to educate His workers. Christ worked and suffered and died for the world, that it might be saved. He sent forth the Twelve with their commission, two and two; then sent out the Seventy to go before Him whither He Himself would go. They were to proclaim the kingdom of God through Judea, and He taught them ［that］ piety must be diffusive. Christ abolished the distinction between neighbor and enemy with regard to those who need light and truth.  {16MR 203.1}
[16MR 203.2]          Not a member of the church is to be an uninterested faction. Life is to be held in their mind as under obligation to do service to Christ in their devising and planning from the first period of their conversion, to consecrate the entire life-influence to unite with Christ in the object for which He gave His life. He would have them patterns of His own love for fallen humanity. They are to love one another, as Christ has loved them. The principles of this kind of labor in love for one another were the badge of their connection with Christ. By this shall all men know ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another.  {16MR 203.2}
[16MR 203.3]         His last prayer for His church, was that they all may be one with the Father, "that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me."  {16MR 203.3}
[16MR 203.4]          I have seen the coming in and increase of selfishness in the working of fields or the non-working of fields. What does it mean, these destitute places left unworked, and so little earnest effort made to put workers into these fields? The Lord Jesus gave His last testimony to John in Revelation:                                            -204-     "Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter" ［Revelation 1:19］. Here message after message is given.  {16MR 203.4}
[16MR 204.1]          "Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labor." And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; and unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; and to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; and unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write. Revelation 3:14-22.  {16MR 204.1}
[16MR 204.2]          These messages Christ did not withhold from His followers--that they must do their work amid trials and exposure to persecution and life itself. But they must not become dim or cease to shine as lights amid the moral darkness, to irradiate the dense gloom of immorality and sin. They are to unite in bearing one another's burdens. "Ye are the light of the world."  {16MR 204.2}
[16MR 204.3]          There was kept before them that His people must be a combined, united power in love and efficiency, to become a light amid the moral darkness. By these combined forces ［He］ specified that they all may be one. Hear it, every one who is a Seventh-day Adventist; hear it: "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. . . . 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 17:21, 23］.  {16MR 204.3}
[16MR 204.4]          The Lord Jesus described the difficulties they should meet. Having called their minds to rise to an eminence, He bids them behold the vast confederacy of evil arrayed against God, against Christ, against all who unite with these holy powers. Christ tells them they were to fight in                                        -205-     fellowship with all the children of light; that satanic agencies would combine their forces to extinguish the light of the life of Christ out of their ranks. But they were not left to fight the battles in their own human strength. The angelic host coming as ministers of God would be in that battle. Also there would be the eternal heavenly dignitaries--God, and Christ, and the Holy Spirit--arming them with more than mortal energy, and would advance with them to the work, and convince the world of sin.  {16MR 204.4}
[16MR 205.1]          This is your work. "I left heaven, My riches, My command, My honor, My glory, to save a world from death. If they will take hold of My strength, and make peace with Me, I will make peace with them."  {16MR 205.1}
[16MR 205.2]          The great missionary spirit of the church is to be aroused. But the Lord Jesus comes forth yet once again to speak to John, and present the missionary work to be done in our world. He sees that the message, the last message of warning, is not thoroughly understood. The angel with the everlasting gospel did not awaken the people to move them to action. He came personally to John and announced to him the missionary work to be done. ［Revelation 22:10-17, quoted.］--Ms 130, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 7, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 205.2}
[16MR 206.1]       MR No. 1214 - To the Church in Brother Hastings' House         (Written from Paris, Maine, November 27, 1850, "To the Church in Brother Hastings' House." The Hastings family lived at New Ipswich, New Hampshire, about sixty miles northwest of Boston.)  {16MR 206.1}
[16MR 206.2]         I have neglected writing you for some time. I will now give my reasons. First, I had no time to write for weeks after I received Sister Arabella's kind and welcome letter, or I should have complied with her request to have answered it within two weeks. I liked the letter very much. We were all interested in the letter and hope my delay will not prevent you from answering this as soon as you read it, and I will not wait so long next time.  {16MR 206.2}
[16MR 206.3]         James' and my health is quite good now. Our home is in Paris, at Brother Andrews', within a few steps of the post office and printing office. We shall stay here some little time. This is a very kind family, yet quite poor. Everything here is free as far as they have. We do not think it right to be any expense to them while here. I want to see you all very much and dear Sister Gorham.  {16MR 206.3}
[16MR 206.4]          Our conference at Topsham was one of deep interest. Twenty-eight were present; all took part in the meeting.  {16MR 206.4}
[16MR 206.5]          Sunday the power of God came upon us like a mighty rushing wind. All arose upon their feet and praised God with a loud voice; it was something as it was when the foundation of the house of God was laid. The voice of weeping                                        -207-     could not be told from the voice of shouting. It was a triumphant time; all were strengthened and refreshed. I never witnessed such a powerful time before.  {16MR 206.5}
[16MR 207.1]         Our next conference was in Fairhaven. Brother Bates and wife were present. It was quite a good meeting. On our return to Brother Nichols', the Lord gave me a vision and showed me that the truth must be made plain upon tables, and it would cause many to decide for the truth by the three angels' messages, with the two former being made plain upon tables.  {16MR 207.1}
[16MR 207.2]          I also saw it was as necessary for the paper to be published as for the messengers to go, for the messengers need a paper to carry with them, containing present truth, to put in the hands of those that hear, and then the truth would not fade from the mind, and that the paper would go where the messengers could not go. Other things I saw which will appear in the paper.  {16MR 207.2}
[16MR 207.3]          How do you all get along? Are you all striving for eternal life? I want to see you very, very much and think I shall before long. Now is the preparation time and I hope we shall all make sure work for eternity. Time looks very short and what we do we must do quickly.  {16MR 207.3}
[16MR 207.4]          November 20, one week ago, Brother Henry Nichols and self went to Topsham. We had just risen from the dinner table Thursday ［Nov. 21］, when one of Brother Foey's children came in and said their mother was insensible. We hastened over the river one mile and found our dear Sister Foey dying. My distress was great as I found she did not know me. She continued long in great distress until between three and four o'clock and then breathed her last. She has left a husband and three children to mourn their loss.                                          -208-  {16MR 207.4}
[16MR 208.1]          Friday morning ［Nov. 22］, Brother Henry came to Paris for James to shave him to attend the funeral. We had a very solemn, interesting time. The Lord did not leave us but let His Spirit rest upon us. Sister Foey's last days were decidedly her most spiritual and best days. Brother Foey has this to console him, that she died a Christian. He bears up well. God gives him grace to endure the affliction. Oh, how good it is to have a hope in God that will sustain in all scenes of trial and affliction. Praise God for a hope, a good hope. What would you, any of you, give for your hope?  {16MR 208.1}
[16MR 208.2]          Hold fast the faith. Be strong in God and lean upon His everlasting arm. It will never fail you but will bear you up under every affliction. I hope you will all grow stronger and stronger in the truth. Do not falter but press your way to the kingdom.  {16MR 208.2}
[16MR 208.3]          One week ago, last Sabbath, we had a very interesting meeting. Brother Hewit from Dead River was there. He came with a message to the effect that the destruction of the wicked and the sleep of the dead was an abomination within a shut door that a woman Jezebel, a prophetess had brought in and he believed that I was that woman, Jezebel. We told him of some of his errors in the past, that the 1335 days were ended and numerous errors of his. It had but little effect. His darkness was felt upon the meeting and it dragged.  {16MR 208.3}
[16MR 208.4]          I felt that I must say a few words. In the name of Jesus, I got up and in about five minutes the meeting changed. Everyone felt it at the same instant. Every countenance was lighted up. The presence of God filled the place. Brother Hewit dropped upon his knees and began to cry and pray. I was taken off in vision and saw much that I cannot write. It had a great                                          -209-     effect upon Brother Hewit. He confessed it was of God and was humbled in the dust. He has been writing ever since that meeting, and is now writing from the same table renouncing all his errors that he has advanced. I believe God is bringing him up and he is calculated to do good, if God moves through him.  {16MR 208.4}
[16MR 209.1]          Much love to dear Sister Gorham. Tell her to be strong. God is with her and He will not leave her. Much love to you all. I hope the children will not get sleepy, but will be interested in the truth and be diligent to make their calling and election sure. Write, be sure and write, and do not do as I have done. I love you, all of you. Write.--Letter 28, 1850.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Sept. 2, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 209.1}
[16MR 210.1]       MR No. 1215 - Report on Meetings and Other Gospel Work in Oregon and the Washington Territory         (Written June 14, 1880, in Salem, Oregon, to "Dear Children, Edson and Emma.")  {16MR 210.1}
[16MR 210.2]          Our meeting is nearly ended. We have labored hard and we rejoice that some good has been done, but there needs much more to be done than has been ［done］ in order to bring the people, who have been so neglected, up in working order.  {16MR 210.2}
[16MR 210.3]         June 16. I was obliged to leave this letter to take the stand. Tuesday was the last day of the meeting, and it was desired I should speak in the evening for the last time. I was unable to sit up yesterday, for with much writing, reining myself up to meet different ones who put in requests for license, speaking in public, and showing the unfitness of different ones to attempt to teach others the truth, it was too much for my strength. I could not attend meetings or remain upon the ground. I stayed all alone in the good home of Sister Donaldson. Last night, weak and trembling, I took the stand, but oh, what a solemn sense of the condition of the people and their unprepared state for the judgment (Revelation 7, commencing with verse nine, to the close of the chapter)! (I here brought in genuine sanctification and the spurious article which is so common.)  {16MR 210.3}
[16MR 210.4]          I had a sweet, solemn power upon me. The tent was full, and I never realized a more solemn power pervading the entire congregation. Felt sensibly the Spirit of the Lord resting upon me, and I knew it rested upon the people.                                         -211-  {16MR 210.4}
[16MR 211.1]          I had spoken once upon the sin of intemperance, and the Methodists sent in a request for me to speak upon that subject in their church. I could not comply with the request because we should leave so soon as this morning.  {16MR 211.1}
[16MR 211.2]          Elder Haskell has gone that he might have chance to purchase tickets. We were to follow on the noon train. But now there comes in an appeal from outsiders, prominent men, for us to remain over another week. I am disappointed not to go, but there is much work left in an unsettled condition, and my daughter Mary and I consent to stay. We have had no opportunity to consult with Elder Haskell, for he is on his way to Portland and will go at once to Oakland. But this will make no difference; if it seems duty to stay we shall do so, and I hardly dare go now. Our meetings have created great interest. The prejudice is removed, and now we can do something, we think, for our people, who have been sadly neglected, as well as for outsiders.  {16MR 211.2}
[16MR 211.3]          It is impossible for me to describe the burden which I have borne upon my soul in Oregon and Washington territory. I have spoken already about twenty-six times on this coast, and have written a great number of pages. I have labored most earnestly for individuals, and prayed with them and for them. I can say I am convinced it was my duty to visit this coast at this time. The Lord gave me a testimony that the people needed. . . .  {16MR 211.3}
[16MR 211.4]          I am astonished that the close, plain testimonies borne to our people by me seem to be the testimonies the outsiders feel the most deeply under, and want more of the same. I cannot write much more. I am so very tired and nervous. I received a letter from Sister Bohler stating ［that］ the little town of Savoy was visited with storm, destroying the town almost completely. From six to twelve were killed and about forty wounded. They said it was the most heartsickening sight ever witnessed.--Letter 32a, 1880.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 2, 1986.  {16MR 211.4}
[16MR 212.1]       MR No. 1216 - Experience Following the 1888 Minneapolis Conference; The Danger of Legalism; Emphasizing Religious Liberty         We found when we reached Battle Creek that some of our brethren and sisters had been preceding us with letters from the meeting of the same character that we had met at the meeting, evidencing that those who made these reports had not received at that meeting the benefit that the Lord designed they should have. There were also a number of delegates who returned to Battle Creek before us who were forward to make reports of the meeting at Minneapolis, giving their own incorrect version of the matter, which was unfavorable to Brethren A. T. Jones and E. J. Waggoner, W. C. White and myself, and the work I had been compelled to do at that meeting. Some who had not seen me since the General Conference in Oakland, California, met me as almost a stranger.  {16MR 212.1}
[16MR 212.2]          I knew that the same work that had leavened the camp in Minneapolis had not been confined to that place but had reached over to Battle Creek through letters sent from Minneapolis and by word of mouth of those who preceded us to Battle Creek. Reports had come to Elder Butler that were not correct or true. Those reporting were deceived by the enemy and were in their turn deceiving him, putting a wrong interpretation upon many things. In his weak condition of health he accepted everything as verity and truth, and acted accordingly. He solicited no interview with me and did not come to call upon me although several times he passed almost by the door where I was rooming. He did not ask me if the statements brought to him were true, but accepted all that had been unwisely told him. Have those who made these                                        -213-     impressions upon his sick mind been as zealous to remove them as they were to make them? Let them answer this to God, for they must be met in the judgment and answered to there.  {16MR 212.2}
[16MR 213.1]         I met with the brethren in the tabernacle, and there I felt it my duty to give a short history of the meeting and my experience in Minneapolis, the course I had pursued and why, and plainly state the spirit which prevailed at that meeting. I told them the position I was compelled to take at that meeting which was not in harmony with my brethren, and the efforts I there made with select brethren to convince them that they were not moving in the counsel of God, that the Lord would not sanction any such spirit as that which prevailed at that meeting.  {16MR 213.1}
[16MR 213.2]          I told them of the hard position I was placed in, to stand, as it were, alone and be compelled to reprove the wrong spirit that was a controlling power at that meeting. The suspicion and jealousy, the evil surmisings, the resistance of the Spirit of God that was appealing to them, were more after the order in which the Reformers had been treated. It was the very order in which the church had treated my father's family and eight of us--the entire family living in Portland, Maine, were excluded from the church because we favored the message proclaimed by William Miller.  {16MR 213.2}
[16MR 213.3]          I had been writing out Volume 4 of Great Controversy. It was fresh in my mind how those men, upon whom the Lord was moving to bear to the world a message of light and of truth, were treated, and because it did not coincide with their opinions men closed their eyes and ears to the message sent of God. What effect did this resistance and opposition have upon those to whom God had given light to be flashed amid the moral darkness that had been gathering over the church like the pall of death? Did they cease their                                          -214-     efforts? No. The Lord had placed the burden upon them: "Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins" (Isaiah 58:1).  {16MR 213.3}
[16MR 214.1]          The Lord was working, and I must be faithful to speak the words given me of God although I was passing through the most grievous trial of my life, for from this hour that confidence which I had hitherto had that God was leading and controlling the minds and hearts of my brethren, was not as heretofore. I had felt that when a call came to me, "We want you at our meeting, Sister White; your influence is needed," I should not consult my choice of my feelings but would arise by faith and try to act my part and leave the Lord to do the work that was essential to be done. Now a greater burden falls upon me. From this time I must look alone to God, for I dare not rely upon the wisdom of my brethren. I see they do not always take God for their counsellor, but look in a large degree to the men they have set before them in the place of God.  {16MR 214.1}
[16MR 214.2]          I tried at the meeting in Battle Creek to make my position plain, but not a word of response came from the men who should have stood with me. ［SEE THE CHAPTERS "GEORGE I. BUTLER MOVES INTO THE LIGHT," "URIAH SMITH FALLS ON THE 'ROCK,'" AND "STILL MORE CONFESSIONS," IN THIRTEEN CRISIS YEARS, BY A. V. OLSON, PP. 87-119.］ I stated that I stood nearly alone at Minneapolis. I stood alone before them in the conference, for the light that God had seen fit to give me was that they were not moving in the counsel of  God. Not one ventured to say, "I am with you, Sister White. I will stand by you."  {16MR 214.2}
[16MR 214.3]         After the meeting ［in Battle Creek］ several shook hands with me and stated, "I am glad to be here. I am entirely relieved. So many reports came to us from Minneapolis and were told us by those who arrived here before you came, of positions Sister White took and what she had said at the conference, that we really thought that Sister White must be a changed                                        -215-     woman; but I feel happy and grateful that I could be at this meeting and hear from her own lips the truth of the matter, that Sister White is not changed, that her testimony has not changed in its character. We recognize the Spirit of the Lord speaking through Sister White as heretofore."  {16MR 214.3}
[16MR 215.1]          But there were quite a number who held fast their evil surmisings and clung to the distorted representations made of me, as though these reports were too precious to be given up, although they had not one real vestige of evidence that I had changed. It seemed to be their preference to believe the false reports. I felt deeply grieved that my brethren who had known me for years and had evidence of the character of my labor should continue to remain in the deception they were in and, rather than confess that they had been mistaken, hold on to the same false impressions as though they were truth.  {16MR 215.1}
[16MR 215.2]          I was invited to speak the next Sabbath in the tabernacle, but afterwards--because the impressions were so strong that I had changed--I think the brother felt a little sorry he had asked me. Two elders visited me on Sabbath morning, and I was asked by one what I was going to speak upon. I said, "Brethren, you leave that matter with the Lord and Sister White, for neither the Lord nor Sister White will need to be dictated to by the brethren as to what subject she will bring before them. I am at home in Battle Creek, on the ground we have broken through the strength of God, and we ask not permission to take the desk in the tabernacle. I take it as my rightful position accorded me of God. But there is Brother Jones, who cannot feel as I do, and who will wait an invitation from you. You should do your duty in regard to this matter and open the way before him."                                           -216-  {16MR 215.2}
[16MR 216.1]          The elders stated they did not feel free to invite him to speak until they had consulted Brother Smith to know whether he would sanction it, for Elder Smith was older than they. I said, "Then do this at once, for time is precious and there is a message to come to this people and the Lord requires you to open the way for the light to come to the people of God."  {16MR 216.1}
[16MR 216.2]         I had freedom in speaking to the people the words of life. I was strengthened and blessed of God. But days passed and there came no invitation for Elder Jones to present to the large church in Battle Creek the message given him of God. I sent for the elders of the church and asked again if they designed to give Elder Jones an opportunity to speak to the people. The answer was, "I have consulted Brother Smith and he has decided it would not be best to ask him because he took strong positions, and carried the subject of national reform too far."  {16MR 216.2}
[16MR 216.3]          I then felt my spirit stirred within me, and I bore a very plain testimony to these brethren. I told them a little of how matters had been carried ［on］ at Minneapolis, and stated the position I had taken, that Pharisaism had been at work leavening the camp here at Battle Creek, and the Seventh-day Adventist churches were affected; but the Lord had given me a message, and with pen and voice I would work until this leaven was expelled and a new leaven was introduced, which was the grace of Christ.  {16MR 216.3}
[16MR 216.4]          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                                          -217-     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. 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.  {16MR 216.4}
[16MR 217.1]          We see a people whom God has blessed with advanced light and knowledge, and will the people thus favored become vain of their intelligence, proud of their knowledge? Will men who ought to be more closely connected with God think it better to trust in their own wisdom than to inquire of God? There are ministers who are inflated, self-sufficient, too wise to seek God prayerfully and humbly with the earnest toil of searching the Scriptures daily for increased light. Many will close their ears to the message God sends them, and open their ears to deception and delusion.  {16MR 217.1}
[16MR 217.2]          Such a state of feelings as existed was painful to me. I labored with pen and voice, doing all in my power to change this order of things. A meeting was conducted at Potterville by the Michigan ministers. I was urged by Brother Van Horn to attend the meeting. I was glad to do this, hoping that the prejudice would be removed. The Lord gave me of His Holy Spirit at that meeting. The Lord seemed to be close by my side, and I had freedom when bearing my message to the people. On this occasion, when only our brethren were present in the morning meeting, I spoke plainly, stating the light that the Lord had been pleased to give me in warnings and in reproof for His people.  {16MR 217.2}
[16MR 217.3]          In leaning upon man--placing so many responsibilities upon one man, as though God had not given intelligence of reason and spiritual strength to                                          -218-     other men to bear responsibilities--there is not only danger that they themselves will become weak and inefficient, but they do a serious wrong to the one whom they treat in this manner. Human beings cannot endure this dependence placed upon themselves. Their danger is great that human influence will stand where the Lord should be.  {16MR 217.3}
[16MR 218.1]          Our brethren separate themselves from God, by reason of the homage they give to human beings. They may esteem themselves, they may esteem others, and look to themselves and to others with that confidence which should be given to the Lord of Israel. The remedy for these things is the heartfelt belief of Bible truth, taking the plainest declaration of the Scriptures. There is great need for all who are placed in positions of trust, who have an influence over other minds, to take heed that, in their positions of trust, they do not prove to be agents through whom the enemy can work, to the detriment of souls. If the weak brother perish, the blood of his soul will be required at your hand.  {16MR 218.1}
[16MR 218.2]          Has God given men places in His vineyard? Then let their talents be employed, and let them increase in efficiency by consecrating soul, body, and spirit to God. The mind must be brought under control, its powers educated, disciplined, and strengthened in the same way that the physical powers are brought under control by right exercise. I warned our ministers to put to exercise every spiritual muscle, improving their talent and making the most of their acquirements in the service of God, for I had been shown that in their special meetings but little good was accomplished because they did not have such a living connection with God that He could impress them by                                          -219-     His Holy Spirit. When not under the control of the Spirit of God, another spirit had control of their thoughts, words, and actions, and in place of growing in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ they were becoming dwarfs in spiritual things.  {16MR 218.2}
[16MR 219.1]          There was a loose, haphazard way of doing the work of God. There was an atmosphere surrounding their souls that was not heavenly, but earthly, common, and cheap. In this atmosphere spirituality could not strengthen, but would decrease. There was laughing, jesting, joking. There seemed to be very little solemnity, very little appreciation of the sacredness of the work. There was much talk, but very little of the mind of Christ. And as long as they carried with them this atmosphere, the gifts and abilities given them of God were misused, and the enemy often employed them in his service. In their blindness they could not discern spiritual things, and under the influence of the great deceiver would take a position to oppose the most sacred things of God.  {16MR 219.1}
[16MR 219.2]          There must be no deifying of human beings, for this is highly displeasing to God. There must be no rings of men to unite together in unholy fellowship to strengthen each other in ways and ideas that are opposed to the Spirit of God. All these preferences, these ardent attachments for individuals, are not after God's order. It is an injury to all parties, for one thinks he is bound to stand by him who is his fast friend.  {16MR 219.2}
[16MR 219.3]          But let my brethren consider, is this a sanctified union? I know that it is not. The power possessed over minds leads you to look to and trust in each other rather than to trust in the living God. It leads you to consult with each other when you should be on your knees pleading with God, the mighty Counsellor. It leads you to strengthen each other to find things you                                          -220-     can question and construe in a way to encourage your unbelief. What one man would not think of by himself, another will supply with his suggestions.  {16MR 219.3}
[16MR 220.1]          I stated that the course that had been pursued at Minneapolis was cruelty to the Spirit of God; and those who went all through that meeting and left with the same spirit with which they came to the meeting, and were carrying on the same line of work they did at that meeting and since they had come from it, would--unless they were changed in spirit and confessed their mistakes--go into greater deceptions. They would stumble and know not at what they were stumbling. I begged them to stop just where they were. But the position of Elder Butler and Elder Smith influenced them to make no change but stand where they did. No confession was made. The blessed meeting closed. Many were strengthened, but doubt and darkness enveloped some closer than before. The dew and showers of grace from heaven which softened many hearts did not wet their souls.  {16MR 220.1}
[16MR 220.2]          I went on my way, returning to Battle Creek wearied but blessed of the Lord. I had repeated interviews with my brethren, explaining my position and the work for this time.  {16MR 220.2}
[16MR 220.3]          I thought it was my duty to go to Des Moines, Iowa. I hoped to meet most of the ministers in that State. I came near fainting in the cars, but the Lord strengthened me to bear my testimony to those assembled. I wished I had all the conference that I could address, for my heart was full of the Spirit of God, just as it was at Minneapolis. The Spirit of the Lord came into our morning meetings, and many humble testimonies were borne with weeping. I will say to the glory of God that He did sustain me and hearts were touched. I did hope to see some who had taken an active part in Minneapolis bend their proud wills and seek the Lord with their whole heart.                                          -221-     I believed this would be done, but although the Lord was manifestly at work upon hearts no thorough confessions were made. They did not fall upon the Rock and be broken, so that the Lord could put His mold upon them. Oh, if they had only yielded their pride, the light and love of God would have come into their hearts!  {16MR 220.3}
[16MR 221.1]          There was Brother Leroy Nicola, whom the Lord has blessed with ability. If his will were subdued to God's will, then a work would be accomplished for him that would make him an instrument of righteousness; but just as long as he cherishes doubts, as long as he feels at liberty to criticize, he will not grow spiritually. The dark shadows will encompass him, uncertainty and discouragements will take possession of reason, and he who feels too proud to bend his will is found weak as a child in moral strength and often almost helpless. Why will he not be healed? He has not the consoling consciousness that he has the Spirit and favor of God. He is educating his mind to doubt and criticize.  {16MR 221.1}
[16MR 221.2]          How my soul longed to see these ministers walking in the footprints of Jesus, pursuing the path He trod, rough and thorny though it may be, but with the assurance that Jesus has traveled it before them and commanded them to follow in His steps. When the will consents to do this, when there is a crucifixion of self, then can they cheerfully take hold of every duty. Then how joyfully is everything begun, carried through, and finished in the name of the Lord God of hosts! Then they can run and not be weary, walk and not faint. Perplexed about the ways and works of God, a cloud of uncertainty hanging over them, and often grievously disappointed and almost loosening the hands to let go, they have but little consciousness of the Lord's presence and are fitful, undecided.                                           -222-  {16MR 221.2}
[16MR 222.1]          Oh, what a blessed privilege to know that we are entirely submissive to the will of God, that we are walking at all times in the light of His countenance, hearkening to the words that He shall speak concerning us, and not venturing a step without His counsel and His direction. May the Lord move upon the minds of these brethren by His Holy Spirit, and may the thick darkness which has clouded their minds and hung over their souls be rolled back and the Sun of righteousness arise in their hearts with healing in its beams.  {16MR 222.1}
[16MR 222.2]          I left Des Moines hoping and praying that these men in responsible positions would be wholly transformed by the grace of Christ, that their labors would not be in vain in the Lord. I was disappointed that no reference was made to the meeting in Minneapolis, no word of retraction of the course pursued there. At the Des Moines meeting an invitation was made by a standing vote for me to attend their conference. I said if it was in the line of my duty, if I was this side the Rocky Mountains, I would gladly comply with their request. But after many months no line reached me from them, no word came that they desired me.  {16MR 222.2}
[16MR 222.3]          I wrote them from the Kansas meeting that I had been disappointed that no word had come to me since the good meeting we had had in Iowa. I was much worn from labor. My heart had suffered so keenly since I left California, in passing through the trials of seeing my brethren in the condition they were in spiritually, that I felt every day that I might not be found alive in the morning; and yet I could not cease my labors of reproving, of standing firm for that which I knew was right.                                          -223-  {16MR 222.3}
[16MR 223.1]          I asked my brethren in Iowa if they deemed it to be their duty to counteract my labors if I attended their meeting, bearing the message the Lord should give me, in case it did not coincide with their ideas. If they felt thus, I could do them no good. Letters were pressing me to go to Williamsport ［Pennsylvania, 1889］. I had promised them I would attend their camp meeting but did not know these meetings would be appointed at the same time. I had to choose which meeting to attend.  {16MR 223.1}
[16MR 223.2]          As not one word came from Iowa I had no chance to know that there had been any change of their feelings, and I decided it could not be my duty to place myself in the atmosphere of resistance and doubt and opposition when there were urgent entreaties for me to attend meetings of those who would receive the testimony given me of God and profit by it because they had not shrouded themselves in an atmosphere of unbelief and proud resistance to the light God had permitted to shine upon them. I cannot believe it to be the will of my heavenly Father for me to tax my strength and lift burdens when those for whom I labor feel no responsibility to lift with me, but feel at liberty to criticize if they think they can do so. We should ever seek to use our ability where we can accomplish the most good, where souls feel their need and are willing to be helped.  {16MR 223.2}
[16MR 223.3]          Oh, how interestedly is the universe of heaven watching to see how many faithful servants are bearing the sins of the people on their hearts and afflicting their souls; how many are colaborers with Jesus Christ to become repairers of the breach which the ungodly had made, and restorers of the paths which others have sought to obliterate. The path of faith and righteousness must be restored. Our salvation is not built upon works of                                             -224-     righteousness which we have done, but upon God's mercy and love. We may put all the works of our own righteousness together, but they will be found to be as sliding sand. We cannot rest upon them.  {16MR 223.3}
[16MR 224.1]          It is God's purpose that we should be educated by providential experience and be habitual learners, building securely on Jesus Christ, the only sure foundation, which will stand fast forever. The blood of Jesus Christ alone can atone for our transgressions. We must claim His righteousness by living faith, and depend on Him and abide in Him alone. We are always to feel our continual dependence upon God. This will scatter our self-sufficiency, our pride and vanity, to the winds.  {16MR 224.1}
[16MR 224.2]          ［E. G. W. Marginal Note: "Letter to Elder Butler to stay after the week of prayer (Dec. 15-22) comes in here." See E. G. White Letter to G. I. Butler, Dec. 11, 1888 (Letter 18, 1888.)］  {16MR 224.2}
[16MR 224.3]          This extract from a letter written to Brother Butler expressed the earnest desire of my soul in his behalf, but the answer I received to this letter pained my heart, for I knew he did not understand the work God has given me to do, neither did he understand the spirit which prompted the answer to this letter.  {16MR 224.3}
[16MR 224.4]          Brother Ballenger became very much distressed in mind. He was almost in despair, and he solicited an interview with me, but I was engaged in other work and could not see him at that time. He tried to obtain an interview with his brethren but he was not favored in this, and then he decided there was no help for him except in God. He began to see that without Him he was in a state of spiritual nakedness and in the dark midnight of despair. He went to the dear Saviour just as He had invited him to come. "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." He sought                                             -225-     the Lord with earnestness of purpose and he found Jesus was close by him. The atoning death, the sufficient propitiation, was presented to him. He laid hold on Christ by living faith, and the cloud was rolled back and he was clothed in the righteousness of Christ.  {16MR 224.4}
[16MR 225.1]          He came into the meeting full of peace and hope, for the Lord had put a new song in his heart, even praise to our God. He then made confession of his great want of spirituality in his labors, and how he had received a view of Jesus and His love, and that this should be his theme in his future labors.  {16MR 225.1}
[16MR 225.2]          Such experiences as these characterized all our meetings after the first week. One brother bore testimony that he had been a Sabbathkeeper many years but he had felt the great lack of faith in Jesus Christ. Coldness and the want of the love of God and of spiritual fervor had discouraged him. He went to other denominations to find that for which his soul hungered, but he found greater dearth among them than among Seventh-day Adventists. He said he had heard at this meeting just the truth for which his soul hungered. "This," he said, "is the truth, present truth. I accept it. And as I have withdrawn from the church of Seventh-day Adventists, I now want to unite heart and soul with you."  {16MR 225.2}
[16MR 225.3]          During the week of prayer in Battle Creek ［Dec. 15-22］ we labored earnestly, speaking at the sanitarium in the early morning, and at the office chapel to the workers in the office, and at the tabernacle. I had reason to give praise to God that strength was given me for this labor. At times the power of God rested upon me in large measure. It seemed at times while I was speaking that the unseen realities of the eternal world were opened to my view, and I know that the Lord was speaking through me to His people. I take no credit to myself. It was all of God, every bit of it,                                             -226-     and the Spirit of God rested upon the congregation. I was glad of this for the sake of the people, for I knew that those who had been in doubt had evidence for their faith if their hearts were open to receive the impression of the Spirit of God.  {16MR 225.3}
[16MR 226.1]          I longed to hear those who had considered it a virtue to brace themselves against light and evidence acknowledge the movings of the Spirit of God, cast away their unbelief, and come to the light. I knew that unless they did this their path would become darker, for light unconfessed and unacknowledged and unimproved becomes darkness to those who refuse to receive it and walk in it. Up to this late date there are souls still in darkness, who know not at what they stumble. And it will be much harder now for them to go back and gather up the rays of light which they have scorned to receive, and to acknowledge the light God graciously gave them to heal them of their spiritual diseases.  {16MR 226.1}
[16MR 226.2]          The first step taken in the path of unbelief and rejection of light is a dangerous thing, and the only way for those who have taken this step to recover themselves from the snares of Satan is to accept that which the Lord sent them but which they refused to receive. This will be humiliating to the soul but will be for their salvation. God will not be trifled with. He will not remove all reason to doubt, but He will give sufficient evidence upon which to base faith.  {16MR 226.2}
[16MR 226.3]          If my brethren had sensed their own weakness, their own inability, and had never lost sight of this, they would have humbled their hearts before God, confessed their errors, and come into light and freedom. Are we ready to boast in pride that we are rich and increased with goods and have need of nothing? This has been done and is being done still. The voice of the True                                              -227-     Witness is heard: "I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing" (Revelation 3:15-17). All this boasting is vain. Christ sees to the very center of the soul and tells us just what we are and what we must be in order to be saved.  {16MR 226.3}
[16MR 227.1]          The message that was given to the people in these meetings presented in clear lines not alone the commandments of God--a part of the third angel's message--but the faith of Jesus, which comprehends more than is generally supposed. And it will be well for the third angel's message to be proclaimed in all its parts, for the people need every jot and tittle of it. If we proclaim the commandments of God and leave the other half scarcely touched, the message is marred in our hands.  {16MR 227.1}
[16MR 227.2]          There was precious truth and light presented before the people, but hearts that were obdurate received no blessing. They could not rejoice in the light which, if accepted, would have brought freedom and peace and strength and courage and joy to their souls.  {16MR 227.2}
[16MR 227.3]          The blessings of that week of prayer extended through the church. Confessions were made. Those who had robbed God in tithes and in offerings confessed their wrong and made restitution, and many were blessed of God who had never felt that God had forgiven their sins. All these precious fruits evidenced the work of God, and yet those who had set their feet in the path of doubt and unbelief did not backtrack and confess their wrongs and come to the light. God was at work, but those who had been pursuing a course of their own devising, contrary to God's word, contrary to His will, in place of yielding their wills and wishes and permitting their hearts to be melted                                              -228-     with thankfulness, felt more confirmed and determined to resist. What shall we name this element? It is rebellion, as in the days of Israel, when they stubbornly wanted their own way and would not submit to God's way and God's will.  {16MR 227.3}
[16MR 228.1]          We have the example of the children of Israel to warn us off that ground. The Lord wrought in our midst, but some did not receive the blessing. They had been privileged to hear the most faithful preaching of the gospel, and had listened to the message God had given His servants to give them, with their hearts padlocked. They did not turn unto the Lord with all their heart and with all their soul, but used all their powers to pick some flaws in the messengers and in the message, and they grieved the Spirit of God, while those who did receive the message were charmed with the presentation of the free gifts of Jesus Christ.  {16MR 228.1}
[16MR 228.2]          The Lord forces His blessing upon no one. There will be those who stand in resistance against light and will say the same words as did the Jews, "Work a miracle and we will believe. If this is the message of God, why do they not heal the sick, and then we will believe." Others truly may comprehend that miracles have been wrought far greater than to heal bodily infirmities. Has not the divine power of God taken hearts cold as steel and softened them and subdued them so that they became as little children? Their legal religion was seen as it is in its true light--worthless.  {16MR 228.2}
[16MR 228.3]          The religious feelings of many were more natural than spiritual, and although they tried to be satisfied they felt an unrest--cold, dark, and Christless. They remained in ignorance of how they stand toward God, ignorant as far as experimental knowledge was concerned of the office work of our Mediator and Intercessor. When they by faith laid hold of Christ,                                              -229-     their hearts were contrite and broken. Christ was being formed within, the hope of glory. This was everything to them. It was the intelligence of what constituted the mystery of godliness. The miracle is wrought. The Lord and His Spirit break in upon the soul. Life and joy take possession of the heart. How quickly is the soul made sensible of its deficiency. Everything is laid open before Him with whom we have to do.  {16MR 228.3}
[16MR 229.1]          But those who close their eyes to evidence God is pleased to give--as did the Jews--and ask for miracles, will be passed by. The evidences they refused to receive, others will receive, and others will receive the blessing God tendered to them but which they refused because they were proud, self-sufficient, and self-righteous.  {16MR 229.1}
[16MR 229.2]          We thank God for every token of His love and of His grace. We will praise God and take courage. We will not sit as criticizers. We will not turn from the heavenly benefits, neither will we sit in judgment to condemn God's ways and God's manner of working because others feel like doing it. They have no reason for saying the things that they do, no reason to resist the Spirit of God.  {16MR 229.2}
[16MR 229.3]          Jesus upbraided His disciples for their unbelief. Unbelief is the occasion of all sin and is the bond of iniquity. Its work is to make crooked, things that are straight. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen. When we become as little children, sitting at the feet of Jesus, learning of Him self-denial and what it is to live by faith in every word of God, then the soul finds rest and peace.  {16MR 229.3}
[16MR 229.4]          A woe is pronounced upon all such unbelief and criticism as was revealed in Minneapolis and as was revealed in Battle Creek. By their fruits ye shall know them. Evidence at every step that God was at work has not                                              -230-     changed the manifest attitude of those who in the very beginning pursued a course of unbelief which was an offense to God. With this barrier they themselves had erected, they--like the Jews--were seeking something to strengthen their unbelief and make it appear they were right. Therefore they could not drink in the great salvation that the Lord proffered them. The riches of divine grace they refused. The longsuffering of God, His goodness, and His love and wonderful forbearance have not broken their hearts because they have not looked upon it and appreciated these favors. I lay these things open plainly before all, for I know their danger. I have labored earnestly to one end--the good of souls and the glory of God.  {16MR 229.4}
[16MR 230.1]         When we see men unconvinced and unchanged, notwithstanding all the marked evidences God has given, we feel sure that they will see no greater evidence. I thought of another thing that I could do--to get out a testimony and set before the questioning, doubting ones general principles, hoping this would bring some to see things in a correct light. I know that it has had an influence upon many minds, but it seems to be no help to others. They stand ready to block the wheels rather than to help pull the car up the steep ascent.  {16MR 230.1}
[16MR 230.2]          I have not left anything undone that I have had any evidence it was my duty to do. And as far as Battle Creek is concerned I can do no more than I have done. Those who have not united with me and the messengers of God in this work, but whose influence has been to create doubt and unbelief, I do not judge. Every jot of influence that has been cast on the side of the enemy will meet its reward according to its works. God was working with me to present to the people a message in regard to the faith of Jesus and the righteousness of Christ. There have been those who have not worked in                                          -231-     harmony but in a way to counteract the work God has given me to do. I must leave them with the Lord.  {16MR 230.2}
[16MR 231.1]          We attended meetings in South Lancaster ［Jan. 11-22, 1889］, and the fruits were good. We had the same spirit and power that attended the first and second angels' messages. I have given you an account of these meetings. The Lord wrought upon all hearts, and many were able to say, "The Lord hath put a new song in my mouth, the matchless love of Jesus." His excellencies were kept before the mind's eye, and souls began to see the delights in Jesus. They could speak of His love and tell of His power. The Sun of righteousness was rising in the hearts of nearly all present. Many were zealous and were repenting of their lukewarmness and complying with the invitation of the Merchantman, "Buy of Me gold tried in the fire," "and white raiment," "and eyesalve." Their testimony was, "I have found the Pearl of great price." Hearts were impressed, confessions were made of wrongs to unbelievers and believers, and restitutions were made.  {16MR 231.1}
[16MR 231.2]          We inquire, as Christ inquired of the Jews, The preaching of this message, is it of heaven or is it from beneath? Jesus rejoiced in spirit as He saw men who had not had the continuous opportunity and privileges the Jews had had, convicted and converted to the truth. He said, "I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes" (Matthew 11:25). The Lord rejoiced that the plan of salvation was so plain that a child in its simplicity could understand it, while those who were not spiritual and humble and willing to learn, who were puffed up in their own self-conceit, could not see the beauty of the gospel, because it is spiritually discerned.                                          -232-     But all who are honest, teachable, childlike, who desire to know the truth, will see the power of God when it is revealed, and will acknowledge it.  {16MR 231.2}
[16MR 232.1]          Earnest discourses have been given in the power and Spirit of God by His servants, in regard to the hope set before us in the gospel. The love of Jesus and the righteousness of Christ have been presented, and they are so plainly seen the mind grasps them by faith. They have come to many who have long been Christians, as a new revelation. "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Oh, this is meat in due season from first to last!  {16MR 232.1}
[16MR 232.2]          The Jews looked upon a veiled Saviour whom they had never seen unveiled, and many even who claim to be God's commandment-keeping people are looking upon a veiled Saviour. They have thought so little upon the great plan of redemption, the atoning sacrifice, and the truth that through the shedding of a Saviour's blood alone the angels could proclaim peace on earth and good will to men. Talk it. Pray it. Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins. Then why not dwell upon the necessity of faith in the blood of Jesus Christ?  {16MR 232.2}
[16MR 232.3]          It is said that Wilberforce once took the great statesman Pitt to hear the celebrated Mr. Scott preach. The preacher's theme was the way by which a sinner can be saved, and it was presented with great plainness, fervor, and earnestness. At the close of the service Pitt was asked what he thought of the sermon. He replied, "I did not know what he was aiming at." Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. The things of the Spirit, the preaching of the cross, are "to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."                                          -233-  {16MR 232.3}
[16MR 233.1]          We visited Washington, D. C. ［Jan. 24-31, 1889］, and labored there, and we saw the same fruits attending the message. We felt to thank God for the evidences of His rich grace. We visited Illinois, and there we saw the work of God. His Spirit was poured out in rich measure. I will here insert a letter written while I was at that meeting. (Insert letter to W. C. White.)  {16MR 233.1}
[16MR 233.2]          I will pursue this history no further, but I will in a very imperfect manner state ［that］ the law points to Christ and Christ points to the law. Because man has broken the law, the day in which we live is a period when the law of God is almost universally made void. How few realize their personal responsibility to God. The power of free, independent action may fill us with awe. God speaks. What does He say? He says, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. . . . This do and thou shalt live" (Luke 10:27, 28).  {16MR 233.2}
[16MR 233.3]          It is impossible for us to realize the far-reaching nature of God's law unless we view Christ upon the cross of Calvary--the atoning sacrifice. Through the law is the knowledge of sin. God's moral law is the sin detector, and how can we have an intelligent knowledge of what constitutes sin unless we acknowledge God's moral standard of righteousness? He who has the fullest conceptions of the infinite sacrifice of Christ for the sins of the world, and by faith seizes and appropriates the righteousness of Christ as his righteousness, can see the holiness, beauty, and glory in the law of God, and exclaim with David, "O how I love Thy law! It is my meditation all the day" (Psalm 119:97).                                          -234-  {16MR 233.3}
[16MR 234.1]         God's law reaches to the internal as well as to the external actions of men. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents and purposes of the soul. A man may be guilty of sins which God alone knows. God's law is indeed a searcher of hearts. There are dark passions of jealousy and revenge and hatred and malignity, lust, and wild ambition that are covered up from human observation, and the great I AM knows it all. Sins have been contemplated and yet not carried out for want of opportunity. God's law makes a record of all these. These hidden-away, secret sins form character.  {16MR 234.1}
[16MR 234.2]          The law of God condemns not only what we have done but what we have not done. We will, in the day of final accounts, find a register of the sins of omission as well as the sins of commission. God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing. It is not enough that by your own measurement of character you prove you have done no positive wrong. The fact that one has done no positive good will be enough to condemn him as a wicked and slothful servant.  {16MR 234.2}
[16MR 234.3]          By the deeds of the law shall no flesh be justified. There is no power in law to save the transgressor of law. If man, after his transgression, could have been saved by his utmost energy to keep the law, then Jesus need not have died. Man could have stood on his own merits and said, "I am sinless." God will never bring down the law to man's standard, and man can never lift himself up to answer to its claims of perfection. But Christ comes to our world and pays the sinner's debt, suffers the penalty for transgression of the law, and satisfies justice, and now the sinner may claim the righteousness of Christ. "Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (Romans 5:20).                                          -235-  {16MR 234.3}
[16MR 235.1]          But grace does not come in to excuse the sinner in the continuance of sin. God's grace does not detract from the law, but establishes the law as changeless in its character. Here "mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other" (Psalm 85:10). God looks upon His Son dying upon the cross and is satisfied, and Jesus is called "the Lord Our Righteousness." Then let the sinner by faith appropriate the merits of the blood of a crucified Redeemer to his own case--"the Lord my righteousness."  {16MR 235.1}
[16MR 235.2]         The Lord is not pleased to have man trusting in his own ability or good deeds or in a legal religion, but in God, the living God. The present message that God has made it the duty of His servants to give to the people is no new or novel thing. It is an old truth that has been lost sight of, just as Satan made his masterly efforts that it should be. The Lord has a work for every one of His loyal people to do to bring the faith of Jesus into the right place where it belongs--in the third angel's message. The law has its important position but is powerless unless the righteousness of Christ is placed beside the law to give its glory to the whole royal standard of righteousness. "Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good" (Romans 7:12).  {16MR 235.2}
[16MR 235.3]          A thorough and complete trust in Jesus will give the right quality to religious experience. Aside from this the experience is nothing. The service is like the offering of Cain--Christless. God is glorified by living faith in a personal, all-sufficient Saviour. Faith views Christ as He is--the sinner's only hope. Faith takes hold of Christ, trusts Him. It says, "He loves me; He died for me. I accept the sacrifice, and Christ shall not have died for me in vain."                                          -236-  {16MR 235.3}
[16MR 236.1]         We have not only lost much to our own souls, but as ministers ［we］ have neglected the most solemn part of our work in not dwelling upon the blood of Jesus Christ as the sinner's only hope for eternal life. Tell the story of Christ's leaving the heaven of bliss and the coming to our world, practicing self-denial and self-sacrifice, calling for all to come and learn of Him, for He is meek and lowly of heart, and promising that they should find rest to their souls if they would wear His yoke and lift His burden. Oh, how many will have to have their false props swept away--their self-congratulation, their self-esteem! Nothing will God accept of you but an indwelling Jesus; Christ alone, Christ all and in all.  {16MR 236.1}
[16MR 236.2]         The conversion of souls has been made mysterious and complicated. Oh, tell the sinners, "Look and live." Study and practice Christ. "Thy gentleness," said David, "hath made me great" (Psalm 18:35). Just open the door and let Jesus come in, and He will abide in the soul temple, and we may abide in Christ and rejoice in His love.  {16MR 236.2}
[16MR 236.3]         Bible religion is not made up of theological systems, creeds, theories, and tradition, for then it would not remain a mystery. The worldly would understand it through their own natural abilities. But religion, Bible religion, has a practical, saving energy, elements proceeding wholly from God--a personal experience of God's power transforming the entire man.  {16MR 236.3}
[16MR 236.4]          Many are ignorant of the deception which palms off falsehood for truth. They entertain ideas that men may be saved by their own merit. A false religion has come in among us, a legal religion. We will not keep silent. The church must be roused. We will secure halls in the cities and put out handbills and the people shall be enlightened. God has sent a message of warning. We must soon wrestle with the powers of the land, and we have                                          -237-     every reason to fear that falsehood will gain the mastery. We shall call upon our churches in the name of the Lord to view this struggle in its true light. It is a contest between the Christianity of the Old and New Testaments and the Christianity of human tradition and corrupt fables.  {16MR 236.4}
[16MR 237.1]          This contest is to decide whether the pure gospel shall have the field in our nation, or whether the popery of past ages shall receive the right hand of fellowship from Protestantism, and this power prevail to restrict religious liberty. The struggle is right upon us. We are years behind, and yet men in responsible positions will in their blindness keep the key of knowledge, refusing to enter themselves and hindering those who would enter. The message must go broadcast, that those who have been imperceptibly tampering with popery, not knowing what they were doing, may hear. They are fraternizing with popery by compromises and by concessions which surprise the adherents of the papacy. But let us hope it is not yet too late to do a work that our people ought to have done years before this.  {16MR 237.1}
[16MR 237.2]          God has children, many of them, in the Protestant churches, and a large number in the Catholic churches, who are more true to obey the light to the very best of their knowledge than a large number among Sabbathkeeping Adventists who do not walk in the light. The Lord will have the message of truth proclaimed, that Protestants may be warned and awakened to the true state of things and consider the worth of the privileges of religious freedom which they have long enjoyed.  {16MR 237.2}
[16MR 237.3]          This land has been the home of the oppressed, the witness for liberty of conscience, and the great center of Scriptural light. God has sent messengers who have studied their Bibles to find what is truth, and studied the movements of those who are acting their part in fulfilling prophecy in                                          -238-     bringing about the religious amendment which is making void the law of God and thus giving ascendancy to the man of sin. And shall no voice be raised of direct warning to arouse the churches to their danger? Shall we let things drift, and let Satan have the victory without a protest? God forbid.  {16MR 237.3}
[16MR 238.1]          The Lord Jesus understands the pressure that is brought to bear against those who are loyal and true to Him, for He has felt the same in the highest degree. Those who witnessed a good confession in behalf of truth in the Reformation counted not their lives dear unto themselves, that truth might be vindicated. God and angels are looking on as witnesses from their holy dwelling place, and marking the earnestness and zeal of the defenders of the truth in this age. What do they defend? The faith once delivered to the saints. Then let the message go to all nations, tongues, and people.  {16MR 238.1}
[16MR 238.2]          Stand out of the way, Brethren. Do not interpose yourselves between God and His work. If you have no burden of the message yourselves, then prepare the way for those who have the burden of the message, for 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. For this reason the eleventh hour laborers will receive their penny. These will see the battle coming and will give the trumpet a certain sound. When the crisis is upon us, when the season of calamity shall come, they will come to the front, gird themselves with the whole armor of God, and exalt His law, adhere to the faith of Jesus, and maintain the cause of religious liberty which Reformers defended with toil and for which they sacrificed their lives.                                          -239-  {16MR 238.2}
[16MR 239.1]          The watchmen must sound the alarm. If men are at ease in Zion somebody must be awake to give the trumpet a certain sound. Let the blaze of the beacon light be seen everywhere. Let the ease-loving awake, the tranquil be disturbed, and let them labor for religious liberty. And after we have done all we can, then leave our Lord to do His work.  {16MR 239.1}
[16MR 239.2]          There was at last an opening made for Brother Jones, but it was not pleasant to fight every inch for any privileges and advantages to bring the truth before the people. The message borne had a wonderful effect on those that heard it. There were many not of our faith who were deeply stirred with the importance of doing something and doing it now, in the struggle for religious freedom. Many were awakened to see what this religious amendment meant--turning from a "Thus saith the Lord, the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God." A spurious sabbath is presented to be legislated into power, compelling the observance of a sabbath which God has not enjoined upon man.  {16MR 239.2}
[16MR 239.3]          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. The darkest pages of history will be opened in that great day when it will be too late for wrongs to be righted. Registered in the book are crimes that have been committed because of religious differences. We are not ignorant of the history. Europe was shaken as though with an earthquake, when a church, lifted up in pride and vanity, haughty and tyrannical, devoted to condemnation and death all who dared to think for themselves, and who ventured to take the Bible as the foundation of their faith.                                          -240-  {16MR 239.3}
[16MR 240.1]          Our own land is to become a battlefield on which is to be carried on the struggle for religious liberty to worship God according to the dictates of our own conscience. Then can we not discern the work of the enemy in keeping men asleep who ought to be awake, whose influence shall not be neutral but wholly and entirely on the Lord's side? Shall men cry peace and safety now, when sudden destruction is coming upon the world, when God's wrath shall be poured out?  {16MR 240.1}
[16MR 240.2]          And shall there be with the people of God the cropping out of the very same spirit which they have condemned in the denominations, because there was a difference of understanding on some points--not vital questions? Shall the same spirit in any form be cherished among Seventh-day Adventists--the cooling of friendship, the withdrawal of confidence, the misrepresentation of motives, the endeavor to thwart and turn into ridicule those who honestly differ with them in their views? I have in my last few weeks' experience learned what little dependence may be placed in man, for these things must be met. Alienation and bitterness give evidence that if possible Satan will deceive even those who claim to believe the truth for this time, showing that they have need to study the character of pure and undefiled religion. God forbid that Satan shall do this.  {16MR 240.2}
[16MR 240.3]          Godliness, which the gospel enjoins, never bears briars and thorns, never--because all do not see exactly alike--breaks the closest links of association, dividing those who have been one in faith, one in heart, in their relationship. But a difference in the application of some few scriptural passages makes men forget their religious principles. Elements become banded together, exciting one another through the human passions to withstand in a harsh, denunciatory manner everything that does not meet their ideas. This is not Christian, but is of another spirit.                                          -241-  {16MR 240.3}
[16MR 241.1]          And Satan is doing his utmost to have those who believe present truth deceived on this point, for he has laid his snare to overcome them, that those who have accepted unpopular truth, who have had great light and great privileges, shall have the spirit that will pervade the world. Even if it is in a less degree, yet it is the same principle that when it has a controlling power over minds, leads to certain results. There is pride of opinion, a stubbornness that shuts the soul away from good and from God. Warnings have been scorned, grace resisted, privileges abused, conviction smothered, and the pride of the human heart strengthened. The result is the same as with the Jews--fatal hardness of heart. It is not safe for the soul to rise up against the messages of God. All who are handling sacred truth are only mortal men.--Manuscript 30, 1889.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. October 2, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 241.1}
[16MR 242.1]      MR No. 1217 - A Message of Comfort, Pointing to Christ Our Righteousness         (Written April 23, 1890, from Oakland, California, to "Dear Brother Samuel Fulton.")  {16MR 242.1}
[16MR 242.2]          My much respected brother in the Lord, I am afflicted as I learn of your affliction. But our only hope is in Christ our righteousness. You may trust in the Lord with all your heart. He will never fail you.  {16MR 242.2}
[16MR 242.3]          The precious promises of God are full and rich and free. Oh, how precious they are to you in your affliction, when heart and flesh fail! It is true that all have not the same boldness and confidence when brought into deep affliction. And again, I am so glad that feelings are no criterion. The promises rich and full are yours. You can say in your sickness, "The anchor holds." Faith and hope in the promises of God are steadfast.  {16MR 242.3}
[16MR 242.4]          You have the pledged word of Jehovah: "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Only rely with trusting faith as a child relies in the promises of his faithful parent. Here is simple, earnest faith and confidence in Jesus, who loves you, and has paid a dear price for your redemption.  {16MR 242.4}
[16MR 242.5]          In the weak state of your body, the enemy may try to make his voice heard that the Lord does not love you. Oh, He does love you. "Like as a father pitieth his children," so the Lord pities those who put their trust in Him.  {16MR 242.5}
[16MR 242.6]          Your life may look to you to be full of mistakes; but what if there are mistakes? Jesus knows all about the trials, the weaknesses of humanity, and He has placed on record the most precious promises: "If any man sin, we have                                          -243-     an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous;" "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  {16MR 242.6}
[16MR 243.1]          I have evidence--the very best--that God loves you. He will not thrust you from Him in your weakness, for He loves you. Do not worry yourself out of the arms of Jesus, but just repose in restful quietude in His love. His grace will be all-sufficient for you when heart and flesh shall fail. He will give you His peace and His grace. Gather to your soul God's promises, for Jesus is your constant, unfailing friend.  {16MR 243.1}
[16MR 243.2]          Try as hard as you will, you cannot manufacture a righteousness for yourself. Christ has woven in heaven's loom the robe of His righteousness, and He will put the same upon you. And your sins--your old, defiled citizen's garments--will be taken away. He points you to the fountain of living waters, whereby you may drink and drink again, and be refreshed. He bids you come unto Him with all your griefs, your pains, your weakness, and He says you shall find rest. Only believe that Jesus is your personal Saviour, that He pardons all your transgressions, and then rest in His love.  {16MR 243.2}
[16MR 243.3]          Do not let the smallest doubt come into your soul, for all your feelings of guiltiness must be laid at the foot of Calvary. Jesus says, "I have taken your sins. I have imputed to you My righteousness. Your weak faith will I strengthen." Then, trust in Jesus. He extends to you free pardon. He makes you a member of the "royal family." Put your hand in the hand of Jesus, and He will hold to you more firmly than you can hold to Him.                                          -244-  {16MR 243.3}
[16MR 244.1]          Let your soul be comforted by the brightness of the "Sun of Righteousness."  {16MR 244.1}
[16MR 244.2]          The cloud may appear dark to you at times in itself, but when filled with the bright light of Jesus, it is turned to the brightness of gold, for the glory of God is upon it.  {16MR 244.2}
[16MR 244.3]          May the Lord bless these words to you, is my prayer. Love to your faithful, watching wife, and all dear friends.--Letter 31, 1890.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. October 2, 1986. Entire Letter  {16MR 244.3}
[16MR 245.1]      MR No. 1218 - Counsel to Provide Adequate Facilities for Water Treatments; Eliminate Use of Poisonous Drugs; Reforms Needed         At a council meeting held last Thursday forenoon, it was decided that Brother Thompson should look over the plan which had been drawn up for the ［Sydney］ hospital, and cut out four feet, thus lessening the expense. I disliked very much to do this, but money matters have become a serious question with us, and I felt forced to confess that I knew of no other way to do. But during the silent hours of the night, when I was by myself, the structure of a building rose before me, and my attention was directed to it. I said, That building is disproportionate; it is too tall and narrow; it is not symmetrical. I pointed out its disagreeable appearance, and the answer was, "That is the very form of the structure you intend to build."  {16MR 245.1}
[16MR 245.2]          There should be no contracting ［i.e., reduction in size］ in the plan for the hospital. Let your minds take in the situation, and then erect the building you really need, putting the cost of the verandahs into the main building. The tread, tread that will be heard in the verandahs will be annoying to any person, sick or well. We can better do without them than contract the plan. If a small building is erected, after a time you will have to enlarge. These additions cost too much to run the risk of now limiting the building.  {16MR 245.2}
[16MR 245.3]         The bathroom should be a room where massage and other treatments can be given. This part of the building should in no case be crowded out. There should be two bathrooms, one for lady patients, the other for the men. A special building should be prepared for those who have typhoid fever and                                         -246-     other contagious diseases, who may come right among us. There should also be a bathroom for those who minister in word and doctrine, who need toning up and rest. Rooms should be ready for persons who are not invalids, but who will be unless they take more care of themselves.  {16MR 245.3}
[16MR 246.1]          In every place where we have a church, there should be some place specially fitted up where treatments can be given--a bathhouse with appropriate rooms. This is as the Lord designs it should be. There are few families so situated that they can accommodate in their dwelling-houses the one needing treatment, and thus help to prevent disease. In every place a building, even though rude and inelegant, should be erected. It should be plainly and comfortably furnished with springbeds, easy chairs, et cetera. Treatment ought not to be given in sleeping rooms.  {16MR 246.1}
[16MR 246.2]          In the bathroom there should be a bench of suitable height, covered with mattress, oilcloth, and woollen blanket. On this the patient can be given packs, and colds broken up. Thus a great deal of money may be saved which would otherwise be spent on doctors' bills. When workers in the cause of God fail in health, the central sanitarium may not be within their reach. Every teacher of the Word can learn how to treat himself, with the aid of a helping brother. Instruction has been given on this point.  {16MR 246.2}
[16MR 246.3]          Physicians need to be instructed by the great Physician. They need to learn in the school of Christ. They receive their diplomas as competent physicians, but have they learned from the Chief of physicians the lessons contained in the first four and the last six commandments--"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength and with all thy mind, and thy neighbor as thyself"?                                           -247-  {16MR 246.3}
[16MR 247.1]          There is to be a sanitarium in Australia, and altogether new methods of treating the sick are to be practiced. Drug medication must be left out of the question if the human physician would receive the diploma written and issued in heaven. There are many physicians who will never receive this diploma unless they learn in the school of the great Physician. This means that they must unlearn and cast away the supposed wonderful knowledge of how to treat disease with poisonous drugs. They must go to God's great laboratory of nature, and there learn the simplest methods of using the remedies which the Lord has furnished. When drugs are thrown aside, when fermented liquor of all kinds is discarded, when God's remedies--sunshine, pure air, water, and good food--are used, there will be far fewer deaths and a far greater number of cures.  {16MR 247.1}
[16MR 247.2]          Christ never planted the seeds of death in the system. Satan planted these seeds when he tempted Adam to eat of the tree of knowledge, which meant disobedience to God. Not one noxious plant was placed in the Lord's great garden, but after Adam and Eve sinned, poisonous herbs sprang up. In the parable of the sower the question was asked the master, "Didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? From whence then hath it tares?" The master answered, "An enemy hath done this." ［Matthew 13:27, 28.］ All tares are sown by the evil one. Every noxious herb is of his sowing, and by his ingenious methods of amalgamation he has corrupted the earth with tares.  {16MR 247.2}
[16MR 247.3]          Then shall physicians continue to resort to drugs which leave a deadly evil in the system, destroying that life which Christ came to restore? Christ's remedies cleanse the system. But Satan has tempted man to introduce into the system that which weakens the human machinery, clogging and destroying the fine, beautiful arrangements of God. The drugs                                          -248-     administered to the sick do not restore, but destroy. Drugs never cure. Instead, they place in the system seeds which bear a very bitter harvest.  {16MR 247.3}
[16MR 248.1]          The Lord sees that great reforms are needed in this country. The people must be educated in right lines. In this work trials will come, but everything that possibly can be done must be done to keep our special work among ourselves, as far as the outlay of means is concerned. We are not to place ourselves as the helpless prey of the powers of darkness. Those who believe in Christ will be tried. Their faith and love, patience and constancy, will be proved. But God is their helper.  {16MR 248.1}
[16MR 248.2]          Our Saviour is the restorer of the moral image of God in man. He has supplied in the natural world remedies for the ills of man, that His followers may have life and that they may have it more abundantly. We can with safety discard the concoctions which man has used in the past. ［SEE FOOTNOTES ON PAGE 289 OF SELECTED MESSAGES, BOOK 2.］  {16MR 248.2}
[16MR 248.3]         The Lord has provided antidotes for disease in simple plants, ［SEE FOOTNOTES ON PAGE 289 OF SELECTED MESSAGES, BOOK 2.］ and these can be used by faith, with no denial of faith; for by using the blessings provided by God for our benefit we are cooperating with Him. He can use water and sunshine and the herbs which He has caused to grow, in healing maladies brought on by indiscretion or accident. We do not manifest a lack of faith when we ask God to bless His remedies. True faith will thank God for the knowledge of how to use these precious blessings in a way which will restore mental and physical vigor.                                            -249-  {16MR 248.3}
[16MR 249.1]         The body is to be carefully cared for, and in this the Lord demands the cooperation of the human agent. Man must become intelligent in regard to the treatment and use of brain, bone, and muscle. The very best experience we can gain is to know ourselves. Let the soul be cleansed from all impurity. Then will be seen the necessity of reform in many other respects in order that the high standard of virtue and holiness may be reached. --Manuscript 65, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 2, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 249.1}
[16MR 250.1]       MR No. 1219 - The Marketplace and Cathedral in Cologne         (Fragment of a letter written May 27, 1887, from Cologne, Germany.)          Well, I must stop. Of all the sights I have seen, this is the greatest--of market women. They come, young women and old, gray-headed women, with heavy baskets upon their heads, full of vegetables and fruits. They have every kind of produce. Their dresses are tucked up, formed about them, for it is raining. Hundreds of women have passed, and now comes another crowd. One girl of about eighteen has a very large basket on her head and two heavy baskets on one arm and still another basket on the other arm. She is as straight as an arrow, and looks not to the right or left.  {16MR 250.1}
[16MR 250.2]          A woman of about fifty years has just passed us with a large, loaded clothesbasket on her head, then upon the top of this is a large marketbasket, and in her hand a tray of beautiful roses--half-opened buds. They make much of flowers. Every market woman has vegetables, fruit, and abundance of flowers for sale. They sell a very nice bouquet of pinks and roses for two pennies. I wish I could enclose one in a letter, but this I cannot do.  {16MR 250.2}
[16MR 250.3]          We are seated in the depot at Cologne. This place has a cathedral, commenced in 1232. The spire is five hundred thirty-two feet, and the church is five hundred thirty-two feet. There are more than five thousand pinnacles, and this building is not yet completed. This building is fairly bristling with pinnacles. There are services held every day, and people go to the confessional. This is the second, or equal to any cathedral in the world. If I can get a picture of it, will send it to you.--Letter 89, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 2, 1986.  {16MR 250.3}
[16MR 251.1]       MR No. 1220 - Holding Meetings in Cologne; Dogged by Illness         (Written May 28, 1887, from Wohwinkel, Germany, to "Dear Children.")  {16MR 251.1}
[16MR 251.2]          The night we left Basle, we--Sister Ings and I--had a compartment wholly to ourselves, until we changed cars next morning.  {16MR 251.2}
[16MR 251.3]          We rode until ten o'clock, when we came to Cologne, where we had to wait several hours in the depot. The only waiting room was in the dining hall, which was filled with tables prepared for those who wished to eat. I had not the slightest inclination to eat, although I did relish my breakfast. That is the only meal I have enjoyed since leaving home. The old sickness follows me.  {16MR 251.3}
[16MR 251.4]          We found much more comfortable quarters than we expected to find, but we have no more sunshine here than we had in Basle. It is cold and cloudy and damp all the time. The midday, the sun tries to shine, but it is a feeble, sickly, weak shining. There were the same crowded little rooms for meeting that we have found generally. The meeting room was a dwelling room in a private house.  {16MR 251.4}
[16MR 251.5]          The people are intelligent, and in every way different from those in Italy. But Satan has been, and still is, at work here to set the believers at variance one with another. Our meeting all day yesterday was to help the believers. I spoke in the forenoon, and then Elder Conradi said they had never had a social meeting. I told him now was the time to break them in. We had a very good social meeting. The meeting did not close until past one o'clock. It commenced at ten.                                            -252-  {16MR 251.5}
[16MR 252.1]          In the afternoon Brother Conradi held a meeting three hours long, and I think labored hard. I lay down. At eight o'clock I spoke again to the people and then left Elder Conradi to finish the meeting, seeking to adjust difficulties.  {16MR 252.1}
[16MR 252.2]          It is now five A.M. and I am writing sitting up in bed. I have had a miserable time of it thus far, weak and sick and yet compelled to labor. I think my symptoms are more favorable this morning. There is a great deal of coughing here, and all feel badly because of the cold and the want of sunshine.  {16MR 252.2}
[16MR 252.3]          The people here are all neat and clean, but I soon perceived musty smells in the bed chamber, and far worse in the little parlor we occupy. I learned the cause. From the cellar came the bleating of goats, so I think that occasioned the smell. I can have all the goats' milk I want. They have two goats and a kid, but my taste is not now such ［that］ I enjoy milk. I eat but very little of anything.  {16MR 252.3}
[16MR 252.4]          Today we mean to see something of their weaving. Men and women are weavers of lace and silk.  {16MR 252.4}
[16MR 252.5]          My cold made me feel real sick yesterday, but I think I am going to feel better today. I shall speak once today, then we take the cars early for another place about one hour's ride, and speak to the few in that place, and Tuesday go on to Copenhagen.  {16MR 252.5}
[16MR 252.6]          Friday night I had quite a remarkable dream, especially appropriate for this place.  {16MR 252.6}
[16MR 252.7]          I hope, Mary, you will not think of laying off your flannels this summer. I hope you will be blessed with the sweet sunshine and be out in it as much as it is possible. You must not be venturesome. You are too much                                          -253-     so. I hope to hear that you are improving in health. I am glad you are not here with Mabel, although had we sweet sunshine I think you would have gotten along very well with the accommodations.  {16MR 252.7}
[16MR 253.1]          I am sorry, very sorry, you could not accompany us in this journey, but it may be all for the best. We find small houses are being owned by our brethren for the reason that they were compelled to do this or suffer oppression. Some houses are occupied by three families from the garret down, but all are poor here and have to do as they can. With much love, Mother.--Letter 83, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 2, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 253.1}
[16MR 254.1]       MR No. 1221 - Counsel to Sow Seeds of Faith, not Seeds of Skepticism         (Written May 31, 1887, from Wohwinkel, Prussia, to "Dear Brother Oyen.")  {16MR 254.1}
[16MR 254.2]          I learn that Cecelia has decided to go to Battle Creek and connect with you in the work. I had written you something in this point some months ago, which I will send you now. I am distressed to learn of this matter. I know God is not in this.  {16MR 254.2}
[16MR 254.3]          I have been laboring for months to break up this ensnaring wile of Satan, this undue attachment between married men and young girls, and I see more and more the power of the enemy to weaken moral power and lead on, almost unconsciously at first, until the barriers are broken down. I cannot sanction this arrangement. I cannot see that God is in it.  {16MR 254.3}
[16MR 254.4]          Now, my brother, Cecelia has not moral strength to withstand an atmosphere of skepticism. The seeds of doubt have already been planted in her soul, and I consider her upon the very verge of ruin. Your wife has not faith. She has cherished unbelief and questioning. If the husbandman sows corn, he reaps corn; if he sows thistles and weeds, he shall reap thistles and weeds. If we sow the corruptible, we shall reap the corruptible; and if we sow the imperishable, we shall reap the imperishable. The seed sown produces the harvest.  {16MR 254.4}
[16MR 254.5]          The Lord would have us constantly sowing good seed, and not constantly be seeking some peg upon which we can hang a doubt. Yielding the soul to the darkness of skepticism and unbelief will produce for us a harvest of unbelief to reap, and the power to exercise faith becomes weaker and weaker.                                          -255-  {16MR 254.5}
[16MR 255.1]          We have a heaven to gain, my brother. You have not, at all times, sown the seeds of faith, and the enemy will make most determined efforts to overcome you, but do not yield to his temptations.  {16MR 255.1}
[16MR 255.2]          The Lord has a work for you to do. Be wholly on the Lord's side, and have no association with those who would entangle your soul in doubts and questionings, because you are weak in this direction and need to fight constantly the fight of faith. War the good warfare, lay hold on eternal life. Press through difficulties to the mark of the prize.  {16MR 255.2}
[16MR 255.3]          May the Lord help you and strengthen you, is my prayer.--Letter 63, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 2, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 255.3}
[16MR 256.1]       MR No. 1222 - The Wise and Unwise Use of Money         (Written September 28, 1896, at "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W.)          ［Revelation 1:3, 7, 8; Ephesians 6:11-18; 1 Timothy 6:9-12, quoted.］        The Lord has need of thee. The Lord has a work for thee to do for Him. Place yourself under the blood-stained banner of Prince Immanuel. You need to have the words in the last clause of 1 Timothy 6:12 true in your case: "And hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." When the charge from God comes to you, ［verses 13-19, quoted］.  {16MR 256.1}
[16MR 256.2]         My brother, I write these things to you, which is the word of the Lord to you. Temptations surround you. The Lord has committed to you talents to be used to His name's glory. To be entrusted with the use of money is a talent from God not to be demerited, not to be misapplied, to be an injury to the user by selfishly and unwisely appropriating these trusts to administer to selfish ends, but to be wisely employed to confer its benefits to the saving of souls for whom Christ has died.  {16MR 256.2}
[16MR 256.3]          A selfish use of riches proves one unfaithful to God, and unfits the steward of means for the higher trust of heaven. So far from an inactive life in heaven, those who prove themselves faithful in this life shall be stewards of much higher responsibilities. ［Says God］, "If, therefore, ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, if ye have not used the worldly goods that I have committed to your trust to advance my interests as one of the firm, who shall commit to your trust the true riches?" Riches are not ours. All is God's.                                           -257-  {16MR 256.3}
[16MR 257.1]          Those who invest the Lord's goods in expensive buildings, in extravagant adornment, in furniture, in dress, in needless ornaments of show or display, are embezzling our Lord's goods that are only lent us for a time to prove what is in our hearts, to see if we will individually appreciate the responsibilities entrusted to our hands to advance the interests of the firm of which the Lord has honored us by taking us in connection with Himself as partners. And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?  {16MR 257.1}
[16MR 257.2]          There are many advantages Satan manages to place in our way to enamor the mind, to lead to extravagance in the indulgence of appetite, to create false surroundings which are dangerous to the spirituality of the soul. These opportunities to advantage one's self are a temptation from Satan to entangle the human agent into gratifications of hurtful practices, in intemperance and hurtful lusts that destroy the sense of the value of their own souls.  {16MR 257.2}
[16MR 257.3]          When Satan works to ruin souls, he comes clothed like an angel of light, as a friend, and representing himself as Jesus Christ. We need divine enlightenment at every step. There is no safety for our souls unless we commit the keeping of our souls to God in faith and earnest supplications.  {16MR 257.3}
[16MR 257.4]          As money is a snare, made so by the greed after it, we need to be guarded on every side. We are put into possession of money for a little while to try us individually. The soul has its test--whether money stands as having greater power over us than God and His requirements. Our Saviour says, "Ye cannot serve God and mammon."  {16MR 257.4}
[16MR 257.5]          If the human agent acts wisely in the use of means which comes into his possession, he evidences that money is not his god. Mammon is not his                                          -258-     master. In the hands of faithful stewards it shall be made to serve the purpose of God always. Then will the entrusted talents be so wisely employed as to gain for the steward a rich experience, directly and indirectly, and enable him to be rich in good works, blessing his fellow men. He is not required to part with his money in large sums and thus shift his responsibility upon other men. He is to acquire wisdom to stand as ［a］ faithful steward, dealing with his Lord's goods with wisdom and discrimination.  {16MR 257.5}
[16MR 258.1]          There has not been all that wisdom exercised that the Lord requires of His stewards. Large investments have been made. This was not the wisest thing to do in trading upon our Lord's entrusted goods, for temptation has come in consequence of doing this, placing out of their power means which they afterwards see they could use in various lines as the necessity of the cause of God shall present itself to them as the standard of Truth is raised in new fields, and in places where the standard of Truth is to be planted.  {16MR 258.1}
[16MR 258.2]          Churches need to be built to accommodate those who have moral courage to accept the truth when the whole world is opposed to its principles and will use every opportunity to hedge up the way of God's commandment-keeping people.  {16MR 258.2}
[16MR 258.3]          There must not be a moving by impulse. There should not be a pressure brought to bear upon those who have means that they will virtually shift their responsibility upon other men. Every man and woman who is under rule to God is to listen to His counsel. The workings of the arch-adversary of souls will be revealed in various ways. The deceitfulness of riches oft ensnares the soul.  {16MR 258.3}
[16MR 258.4]          There is a positive necessity for the steward of God to pray much that he may not be deceived in anywise in handling the Lord's goods. He is a                                           -259-     steward, a partner in the firm, and if he moves not by impulse but from a sense of conviction that he must invest his Lord's goods to advance the glory of God in the work of saving souls to Jesus Christ, then ［he］ himself will be benefited eternally, if he holds fast his confidence and faith and trust in God firmly unto the end.  {16MR 258.4}
[16MR 259.1]          The improvement of our God-given talents composes a strong feature in our probationary state in the development of character. Now we are on test and trial to reveal Christian character. If we are unguarded now, if we let time pass and act indifferent to the requirements of God, if we misuse our talent of reason, of intellect, if we fritter away upon amusements and self-gratifications our precious opportunities and talents, we are being conquered by the enemy in this life and depriving God of the service due Him, and are imperiling our interests for eternity.  {16MR 259.1}
[16MR 259.2]          If individually we recognize and accept our responsibilities, if we seek the Lord as did Daniel, if we have the moral courage, we will conquer, and the eternal benediction will be ours. Satan works himself in to make the Lord's entrusted talents of means a source of evil to corrupt the whole man, by keeping his heart fastened upon his earthly treasures, and ignoring God and destroying himself physically, mentally, and morally. Satan has usurped the title as god of this world. He is not thus, only as man shall choose him to be thus.  {16MR 259.2}
[16MR 259.3]          He was represented as Barabbas when placed beside Jesus, who made the world and all things that are therein. The opportunity was given to man to choose. "Whom shall I release unto you, Barabbas or Christ?" The roar of voices was like wild beasts: "Barabbas, Barabbas, Release unto us Barabbas." Here was Satan personified, chosen before Christ, the Son of God. What                                           -260-     exaltation had Satan on that occasion! What exaltation he has on every such occasion!  {16MR 259.3}
[16MR 260.1]          Now in our world the choice is being made. "Barabbas, Barabbas." "But what shall be done with Christ?" "Crucify Him." This is being repeated in our world today. Whom are we individually choosing? We are demonstrating our choice.  {16MR 260.1}
[16MR 260.2]          Money has a great value because it can do great good. Absolute necessities are met, and the faithful steward to God can bring relief at a time when help is needed. Money may be withheld from the treasury "that there may be meat in Mine house." The Lord's money is misused in extravagance, in indulgence of appetite. This entrusted capital should be used to relieve human suffering, to clothe the naked, to feed the hungry, to advance the truth, to build up the kingdom of God in our world.  {16MR 260.2}
[16MR 260.3]          There are constant tests, constant temptations, constant trials; but if the agent will bring himself under the control of God, and to wise men, everyone who acquires a competence more than is sufficient to sustain frugal living and supply his personal wants is thrown upon his own responsibility to acknowledge God as the beneficent giver, and to keep his heart with all diligence to do righteousness.  {16MR 260.3}
[16MR 260.4]          "And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted Him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And He said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live" ［Luke 10:25-28］.                                           -261-  {16MR 260.4}
[16MR 261.1]          This entire chapter is worthy of careful study, but the lesson I wish you to take in and understand is contained in verses 25-37. When God is loved supremely, then property of any description will be looked upon as talent loaned to be used with wisdom, to take its proper place subordinate to the eternal interests. Sanctified judgment is to be exercised as to how to appropriate the goods of trust to best advance the glory of God.  {16MR 261.1}
[16MR 261.2]         Money cannot confer happiness without the Lord's name is glorified with its use. When money charms the heart because it is ［in］ the hands of the human agent, it is a snare; it is a master, not an agent for accomplishing the greatest amount of good. It is regarded above the favor of God, takes the place of an idol, and is worshiped as such. But when property, money, or any other thing interposes itself between man and his obedience to God, that money is ruinous to the eternal interests of the soul. We cannot serve God and mammon.  {16MR 261.2}
[16MR 261.3]          When men allow property to get too strong a hold on the mind, it is a snare. When one uses the property lent him in trust to gratify any passion, it becomes a snare, for it fosters pride and leads its possessor into extravagance in its outlay, and his soul is imperiled, serving lust. To serve God with the heart and mind and affection, we must work for His name's glory, and use His entrusted gifts as one who must give an account to God as to how he has used his Lord's goods.  {16MR 261.3}
[16MR 261.4]          We are ever to consider that no amount of property can make us independent of God. He gives us intellect, He gives us life and health; if we will obey His sovereign will, His blessing will abide with us. His word is our assurance. There is no dependence to be placed on property, and wealth cannot                                          -262-     keep us in peace. We may depend upon it, but it cannot be our physician to heal or restore us from infirmities.  {16MR 261.4}
[16MR 262.1]          But when prosperity comes to the human agent, does he give glory to God? Does he honor God with thanksgiving? Does it increase his faith and love to God and his fellow men, or does he trust in his riches and expect to be favored and honored for his riches? Does he become impatient of restraint? Unless heart, mind, and soul are daily consecrated to God, and unless he renders thanksgiving to God for his entrusted gifts, thankful that the Lord has placed His talent in his hands to do good, to advance His cause, to bring in his gifts--tithes and offerings to the Lord's treasury as property accumulates--there will be a turning of these talents into wrong channels, where they will do positive harm to the human agent, and prove a temptation to allure and harm souls for whom Christ has died.  {16MR 262.1}
[16MR 262.2]          We may make the Lord's entrusted gifts just what God designed they should be--a blessing to the needy. Read 2 Corinthians 9:11, 12: "Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the wants of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God." The whole chapter is a lesson to be practiced.  {16MR 262.2}
[16MR 262.3]          If we manifest that we acknowledge God as the Giver to whom we must give an account, there will be a watchfulness to make wise investments in the expenditure of means, with an eye single to the glory of God. Thus our will will be brought into conformity to the will of God. The world, its habits, its practices, and its customs, will not be the standard. Our own inclinations will not lead to extravagance in the outlay of means, but we will                                            -263-     conform to the rules of Christian principles--to be of greatest benefit and usefulness to our fellow men.  {16MR 262.3}
[16MR 263.1]          The Lord is soon to come. We are to do our best as laborers together with God, exerting our God-given faculties to a good purpose; helping others by our carefulness to practice economy; teaching our children that we live not to please ourselves; teaching habits of industry, and not dressing for display; teaching all with whom we come in contact to develop better faculties and to form their characters after the character of Christ; and teaching that whether we eat or drink or whatsoever we do, to do all to the glory of God. By using the money to advance God's glory, all such work may be accomplished, and indolence will not be encouraged.  {16MR 263.1}
[16MR 263.2]          Giving to advance the truth, because it is the truth as it is in Jesus, increases our love for the truth. To give to the Lord's cause that which He has entrusted to us to bestow wisely at times when the cause and work of God needs help, provides a fund from which to draw to sustain the work in its different branches, and this giving will be a personal benefit in uplifting and strengthening the one who invests. When one shows his special interest in this way, that action will react upon himself in this world, and the deed lives in the record of heaven to bring its reward in the future eternal world.  {16MR 263.2}
[16MR 263.3]          There are schools to be established for the education and training of youth in science and in the knowledge of the Scriptures, which is the true Bible science, to prepare young men and women to become intelligent in the Scriptures and prepare them for earnest missionary work in communicating the light that God has given them.                                         -264-  {16MR 263.3}
[16MR 264.1]          The humblest child of God may act a part in this grand work. They should have the privilege, even if it requires self-denial and self- sacrifice, to contribute according to their ability. The education of youth should be of a different order than that which has been in the past. The word of the Most High, who is infinite in wisdom, will, if carefully studied, become enlarged and continually enlarging in light and interest. The welfare of children and youth in all parts of the world demands far more in their interests and welfare than has been given them.  {16MR 264.1}
[16MR 264.2]          The religious affections need to be educated and trained and enlisted in revealing the principles of the Word of God by being brought into practical life, and will evidence in gifts and offerings made to extend the knowledge of the truth. We have the last message of warning, the last call of mercy, to give to our world, and this message will be far-reaching in its influence. And if we have an abiding Christ, our words and works will tell in its beneficial action upon ourselves, and be an active agent in the saving of souls and in glorifying God.  {16MR 264.2}
[16MR 264.3]          What will be the gratitude of souls that shall meet us in the heavenly courts as they understand the interest and sympathy and love which have been revealed for their souls? They felt the burden to labor and to invest means to place souls in positions where they could learn the truth, and in their turn become channels of light. Receiving the light from the Word of God, they communicated that light to others and became a part of the Lord's firm, co-partners with Jesus Christ in saving souls ready to perish. While all praise, all honor, and all glory will be given unto God and to the Lamb as our Redeemer, there will be no detracting from the glory of God in expressing                                            -265-     gratitude to the instrumentality God has employed for the salvation of the souls ready to perish.  {16MR 264.3}
[16MR 265.1]          Those redeemed by the blood of the Lamb will meet there and know the very ones who called their attention to ［the］ uplifted Saviour. What blessed converse they have with these souls. "I was a sinner," they say, "without God and without hope in the world, and you came to me and drew my attention to the precious Saviour as my only help, and I believed in Him. I repented of my sins and was made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus."  {16MR 265.1}
[16MR 265.2]          And other redeemed ones rejoice as they meet those who have had a burden in their behalf. They say, "I was a heathen in heathen lands. You left your friends and comfortable homes, and came to teach me how to find Jesus, and believe in Him as the only true God. I demolished my idols and worshipped God, and now I see Him face to face, saved, eternally saved, to ever behold Him who I now love. I then saw Him only by an eye of faith, but now I see Him as He is. I now can express my gratitude to Him who loved me, who gave His own life for me, with a pure, immortal tongue, for His redeeming mercy."  {16MR 265.2}
[16MR 265.3]         Others will express their gratitude to those who fed the hungry, who clothed the naked. "When despair bound my soul in unbelief, the Lord sent you to me to speak words of faith and hope and comfort. You brought me food for my physical necessities. You treated me as a brother. You sympathized with me in my sorrows, and restored my bruised and wounded soul, that I could grasp the hand of Christ that was reached out to save me. You taught me patiently in my ignorance that I had a heavenly Father who cared for me.                                          -266-     You read to me the precious promises of God's Word. You inspired in me faith that He would save me. My heart was softened, subdued, broken, as I contemplated ［that］ Christ gave His life for me. I became hungry for the word of life, and the truth was precious to my soul; and I am here, saved, eternally saved, to ever live in the presence of Him, and to praise Him who gave His life for me."--Ms 25, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 30, 1986. Entire manuscript.  {16MR 265.3}
[16MR 267.1]       MR No. 1223 - The Parable of the Ten Virgins         ［Matthew 25:1-13, quoted.］        A special message has come to our world in the messages of the first and second angels. ［Revelation 14:6-8, quoted.］  {16MR 267.1}
[16MR 267.2]          Under the proclamation of these messages, the midnight cry was made, and the believers in the messages were compelled to go out from the churches because they preached the second appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven. The whole world was to hear that message, "Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him." Here is the parable of the ten virgins.  {16MR 267.2}
[16MR 267.3]          When the ten virgins went forth to meet the bridegroom, their lamps were trimmed and burning. Five of these virgins were wise. They anticipated delay, and filled their flagons with oil, prepared for any emergency. From those flagons their lamps were supplied, and not left to go out. But five of their number had not this foresight. They made no provision for disappointment or delay.  {16MR 267.3}
[16MR 267.4]          The second call is made, and the ten virgins are still watching for the bridegroom. Hour after hour passes. Their eyes are anxiously looking for the appearance of the bridegroom. But there is a delay, and the weary, watching ones fall asleep. But at midnight, at the very darkest hour, when their lamps are most needed, the cry is heard, "Behold the bridegroom cometh." The sleeping eyes are opened. Everyone is astir. They see the procession they are to join moving on, bright with torches and with music.                                          -268-     They hear the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride. The five wise virgins trim their lamps from the oil in their flagons, and their lamps burn brightly.  {16MR 267.4}
[16MR 268.1]         "But five of them were foolish." These had made no provision wherewith to replenish their lamps, and when aroused from their slumbers they found their lights going out. Their flagons were empty.  {16MR 268.1}
[16MR 268.2]          Their first thought was to borrow of their neighbors, and they said to the wise virgins, "Give us of your oil, for our lamps are going out." But the answer comes back, "Not so; lest there be not enough for yourselves and for us. Go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves." And while they went to buy, the procession moved on and left them behind. The bridal train entered within the house, and the door was shut. When the foolish virgins reached the banqueting hall, an unexpected denial was given them. They were left outside in the blackness of the night. The door was shut.  {16MR 268.2}
[16MR 268.3]         All the Christian world is represented in this parable. The bride constitutes the church that is waiting for the second appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Some who have a nominal faith are not prepared for His coming. The oil of grace is not feeding their lamps, and they are not prepared to enter in to the marriage supper of the Lamb. The representation is such as to call forth our earnest study, that we may know what preparation we who are living in the last days are to make, that we may enter in and partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb. We are to accept the last message of mercy given to a fallen world: "Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city."                                          -269-  {16MR 268.3}
[16MR 269.1]          There is a delay in the coming of the Bridegroom in order that all may have an opportunity to hear the last message of mercy to a fallen world. The first and second angels' messages are all united and complete in the third: "And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb."  {16MR 269.1}
[16MR 269.2]         John was shown these things in holy vision. He saw the company represented by the five wise virgins, with their lamps trimmed and burning, and he exclaimed in rapture, "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."  {16MR 269.2}
[16MR 269.3]         Many who heard the first and second angels' messages thought they would live to see Christ coming in the clouds of heaven. Had all who claimed to believe the truth acted their part as wise virgins, the message would ere this have been proclaimed to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. But five were wise and five were foolish. The truth should have been proclaimed by the ten virgins, but only five had made the provision essential to join that company who walked in the light that had come to them. The third angel's message was needed. This proclamation was to be made. Many who went forth to meet the Bridegroom under the messages of the first and second                                          -270-     angels, refused the third angel's message, the last testing message to be given to the world.  {16MR 269.3}
[16MR 270.1]          A similar work will be accomplished when that other angel, represented in Revelation 18, gives his message. The first, second, and third angels' messages will need to be repeated. The call will be given to the church, "Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins." "Babylon, the great, is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. . . . Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues: for her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities" ［Revelation 18:2-5］.  {16MR 270.1}
[16MR 270.2]          Take each verse of this chapter, and read it carefully, especially the last two: "And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth."  {16MR 270.2}
[16MR 270.3]         The parable of the ten virgins was given by Christ Himself, and every specification should be carefully studied. A time will come when the door will be shut. We are represented either by the wise or the foolish virgins. We cannot now distinguish, nor have we authority to say, who are wise and who foolish. There are those who hold the truth in unrighteousness, and these appear outwardly like the wise.                                          -271-  {16MR 270.3}
[16MR 271.1]          Said Christ, "Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. . . . Those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: these are the things which defile a man" ［Matthew 15:13, 18-20］.  {16MR 271.1}
[16MR 271.2]          It is impossible for men to read the human heart, for the tares so closely resemble the wheat. It is not given to human beings to try to separate them. But the angels of God know them, for their fruits declare their character. Have they not been commissioned to counterwork the work of those who fight against the truth of God's word? These angels will never make a mistake in gathering the wheat from among the tares.  {16MR 271.2}
[16MR 271.3]          ［Matthew 7:15-23, quoted.］        This is the test. Those who are counted among the wise virgins will let their light burn in good works. There are many who will not remain at the feet of Jesus, and learn of Him. They have not a knowledge of His ways. Let none rest in the idea that baptism has saved them, while they give no evidence that they are conformed to the image of Christ, while they cling to their old habits, while they exert their influence on the side of the world, and weave their fabric with the threads of worldly ideas and customs. These have not kept the oil in the vessels with their lamps. They are not ready for the Bridegroom. The oil is the holy grace that is sent from heaven, and there must be an inward adorning with that grace, that they may be enabled to stand when He appeareth.  {16MR 271.3}
[16MR 271.4]          The parable of the talents is given to represent the kingdom of heaven, and to show the necessity of an accurate use of the endowments that God has                                          -272-     entrusted to us. It is of the highest importance that we understand these parables and know wherein they have any bearing upon us individually. The ten virgins are represented as watching in the evening of this earth's history. They represent the church of professed Christians. This lesson should fill our minds with serious thought, and drive us to our Bibles, the Word of the living God. It should lead us to most earnest supplication that God will lead us into all truth.  {16MR 271.4}
[16MR 272.1]           Said Christ: ［Matthew 7:24-27, quoted］.        The apostle says: ［Jude 20-25, quoted］.        We must not stand in a neutral position. Our position must be one of strong and living faith. We are to rear our houses for eternity, as is represented in the parable of the hearers and the doers of the Word. Those who are superficial in their piety may be willing to take the name of Christians, but they will not comply with the conditions laid down in the Word of God. They do not conform their characters to the Word of God and to the pattern He has given. All are hearers of the word. They comment upon that which they hear, but some, while they assent to the message sent by God to them, do not have the faith that will enable them to place the word of God in their hearts. God knows full well that if self does not die, it will become a controlling power in the soul. When the transforming power of God works upon the hearts of men, then they are represented by the wise virgins.  {16MR 272.1}
[16MR 272.2]         There are many who profess to be the sons and daughters of God who have no connection with Him. But God sees every spot and stain that is upon the characters of those who profess to follow Him, and He will prove every soul. He says: ［Malachi 3:1-3, quoted］.                                          -273-  {16MR 272.2}
[16MR 273.1]          God has commanded His people: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God, and keep His charge, and His statutes, and His judgments, and His commandments, alway" ［Deuteronomy 11:1］. ［Verses 13-15, 19-23; 27:1-10, quoted.］  {16MR 273.1}
[16MR 273.2]         The five wise virgins represent those who have perfected a Christian character, who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. God's message to His people is: ［Revelation 3:3-5, quoted］.  {16MR 273.2}
[16MR 273.3]          A great price has been paid for the redemption of man, and none who are untruthful, impure, or unrighteous can enter the kingdom of heaven. If men do not make Christ their personal Saviour, and become true and pure and holy, there is only one course for the Lord to pursue. He must destroy the sinner, for evil natures cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Thus it is that sin, if not destroyed, will destroy the sinner, just as Satan designed it should.  {16MR 273.3}
[16MR 273.4]          As God made man, he was perfect, reflecting the moral image of God. He was left free to choose good or evil. If he should decide to choose the evil, he must have the evil. And man abused the high prerogative of his nature. Christ gave His life to make it possible for all to be wise virgins, partakers of the divine nature, that they might become complete in Jesus Christ, perfect, without spot, and blameless. Thus through Jesus Christ human nature was placed on vantage ground with God, before the heavenly universe and the fallen world.  {16MR 273.4}
[16MR 273.5]          But the Lord does not release men from responsibility. "Work out your own salvation," He says, "with fear and trembling. For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure." Here is a cooperation of God with man and man with God. Here is encouragement for the                                          -274-     most earnest, noble strivings. Christ declares that the life is more than meat, and the body than raiment. "What shall it profit a man," He says, "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］.  {16MR 273.5}
[16MR 274.1]         Christ has made it possible for man to rise in moral value with God. By resisting all wrong, by subduing the evil temper, selfishness, and pride, he may attain to the righteousness of Christ. Man is to become one with Christ in God. Sin is degrading, and there is no place for it in heaven. It is our privilege to have the power of self-control, and if we do not have it we reveal that sin still reigns in our mortal bodies. In Christ is all sufficiency for a self-directed life. "Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me," He says, "and he shall make peace with Me" ［Isaiah 27:5］.  {16MR 274.1}
[16MR 274.2]          The ten virgins all claim to be Christians, but five are true and five are false. All have a name, a call, a lamp, and all claim to be doing God service. All apparently watch for His appearing. All started apparently prepared, but five were wanting. Five were found surprised, dismayed, without oil, outside the wedding banquet, and the door was shut. There are many who cry peace, peace, when there is no peace. This is the most perilous belief for the human soul to entertain. Christ speaks to all who bear His name, who claim to be His followers, to eat His flesh and drink His blood, else they can have no part with Him. Be not like the foolish virgins, who take for granted that the promises of God are theirs, while they do not live as Christ has enjoined upon them. Christ teaches us that profession is nothing. "He that will come after Me," He says, "let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me" ［Luke 9:23］.                                          -275-  {16MR 274.2}
[16MR 275.1]          Let no one take for granted that he is saved. Sanctification is the work of a lifetime. Said Christ, "Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven" ［Matthew 5:19, 20］.  {16MR 275.1}
[16MR 275.2]          When we stand the test of God, in the refining, purifying process, when the furnace fires consume the dross, and the true gold of a purified character appears, then we may say as did Paul, "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect; but I follow after. . . . 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 3:12-14］.  {16MR 275.2}
[16MR 275.3]          These parables were spoken after the solemn lessons given in the twenty-third and twenty-fourth chapters of Matthew, when Christ dwelt particularly upon His second coming, and revealed things which would transpire before His second appearing in the clouds of heaven. "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem," Christ said, "thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not" ［Matthew 23:37］.  {16MR 275.3}
[16MR 275.4]          In this lamentation over Jerusalem is given the assurance of protection to all who will come unto Christ. He will accept and protect them, poor,                                          -276-     defenseless, dependent, even as the hen spreads her protecting wings over her brood. If her chickens wander from her, the hen has a peculiar call by which she warns them of peril or storm. If they will heed the danger signal, and can reach their mother's protecting wings, they find warmth and safety, for she will defend them while she has any life. She forgets herself, and will give her life in defending her helpless little flock.  {16MR 275.4}
[16MR 276.1]          What a touching figure is this! What an idea it gives us of the watchful care of Christ for all who trust in Him. Christ longed to gather Israel under His mediatorial wings. He longed to hear their voice calling upon Him, and saying: "Hold up my going in thy paths, that my footsteps slip not. I have called upon Thee, for Thou wilt hear me, O God: incline Thine ear unto me, and hear my speech. Show Thy marvelous loving kindness, O Thou that savest by Thy right hand them which put their trust in Thee from those that rise up against them. Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of Thy wings" ［Psalms 17:5-8］.  {16MR 276.1}
[16MR 276.2]         ［Psalms 36:5-11, quoted.］        "I will abide in Thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of Thy wings" ［Psalm 61:4］.  {16MR 276.2}
[16MR 276.3]         But Christ could not do for Israel all that He desired to do, because they would not respond to His invitations. "Ye would not," He said. Their will was stubborn and unyielding. His last words to the impenitent nation were, "Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, Ye shall not see Me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord" ［Matthew 23:38, 39］.--Ms 92a, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate October 30, 1986. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 276.3}
[16MR 277.1]       MR No. 1224 - The Church is the Bride of Christ         God calls the church His body. The church is the bride, the Lamb's wife. God is the Father of the family, the Shepherd of the flock. But a mere outward connection with any church will not save a man. It is personal faith in a personal Saviour which brings the soul into spiritual union with Christ. This truth Christ plainly teaches in the sixth chapter of John.-- Ms 121, 1899, p. 17.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 30, 1986.  {16MR 277.1}
[16MR 278.1]       MR No. 1225 - Church Leaders to Respect One Another, and Work for Souls         (Written in 1898, probably at Cooranbong, N.S.W., to "Those on the Avondale School Ground.)  {16MR 278.1}
[16MR 278.2]          Paul wrote to Timothy, his son in the gospel, "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" ［2 Timothy 2:1-3］.  {16MR 278.2}
[16MR 278.3]          These words were written to a youth. Paul tells Timothy that he is not to be a weakling, but strong in the grace of God; that it is his privilege to have power and grace. Timothy is to show that he has given attention to the things which have been communicated to him by his father in the gospel. He is to treasure up those truths and commit them to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. This was his charge. His special work was to gather up the fragments of all he had heard, and commit them to others.  {16MR 278.3}
[16MR 278.4]          This scripture is fraught with important meaning. It plainly shows us that our love will be tested and proved. In the providence of God we shall be associated with those who are inexperienced. The humblest child of God, who needs the most help, may at times try the patience of those who are connected with him. Be careful, my brother, be careful, my sister. "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; 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］.  {16MR 278.4}
[16MR 278.5]          What nearness, then, to God there is in doing our appointed work. It is for the glory of God that souls are saved and not left to perish. They                                          -279-     are ransomed by the life, sufferings, and death of the Son of God. "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］.  {16MR 278.5}
[16MR 279.1]          God calls upon us to cooperate with Him in saving perishing souls. He would have every soul saved. But the churches are asleep. We who are situated on the Avondale school ground, that will call into the school and into the manufacturing work a large class of men and women, shall we seek to help each other? There must be a great deal of patience, a great deal of prayer. Christ met and worked with all classes of human beings, seeking to save that which was lost. Will you who shall connect with men of different organisms and different temperaments, put on Christ, and respect each other as you desire to be respected?  {16MR 279.1}
[16MR 279.2]          The ministering angels are watching every line of the work. They are beholding either your unity and order, or your disunion and disorder. They feel very sad when they have to carry to heaven, as they have had to do in the past, a report that there is dissension, that criticism is studied as a fine art, that you weigh your brethren and neighbors in your finite scales, and pass your opinion upon them, treating them as though they were not God's purchased possession.  {16MR 279.2}
[16MR 279.3]          God is not pleased with the men who have composed the school board. They should have worked in a way altogether different from what they have done. The God of heaven is weighing these men in scales that are accurate. He has signified that His name is dishonored, that different men must compose the board. Two or three or four men are not enough.  The Lord calls for men who will work in an altogether different way, with an altogether                                         -280-     different spirit, who will respect one another, who will not condemn, who will respect position and intelligence, and will give place and room for others.  {16MR 279.3}
[16MR 280.1]          God has put into operation every conceivable plan that the value of the human soul should be appreciated. He would lead all to see what souls are worth. Christ died to save every man. He desires that every effort shall be made to save perishing souls. He sends out evangelists and missionaries, and causes religious periodicals to be circulated. The press is brought in to help to reach souls in darkness. Those who are on this ground must not put on their citizen's dress, but the wedding garment. They have been married to Christ, and the robe of His righteousness is to clothe them. The church is the bride of Christ, and her members are to yoke up with their Leader. God warns us not to defile our garments.--Letter 123a, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 30, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 280.1}
[16MR 281.1]       MR No. 1226 - Giving Exposure to Differing Doctrinal Viewpoints; Disapproval of D. M. Canright's Actions         (Written April 5, 1887, from Basle, Switzerland, to "Dear Brethren ［G. I.］ Butler and ［Uriah］ Smith.")  {16MR 281.1}
[16MR 281.2]          I have sent copies of letters written to Brethren ［E. J.］ Waggoner and ［A. T.］ Jones to Elder ［G. I.］ Butler in reference to introducing and keeping in front and making prominent subjects on which there are differences of opinion. I sent this not that you should make them weapons to use against the brethren mentioned, but that the very same cautions and carefulness be exercised by you to preserve harmony as you would have these brethren exercise.  {16MR 281.2}
[16MR 281.3]         I am troubled; for the life of me I cannot remember that which I have been shown in reference to the two laws. I cannot remember what the caution and warning referred to were that were given to Elder ［J. H.］ Waggoner. It may be that it was a caution not to make his ideas prominent at that time, for there was great danger of disunion.  {16MR 281.3}
[16MR 281.4]          Now, I do not wish the letters that I have sent to you should be used in a way that you will take it for granted that your ideas are all correct and Dr. Waggoner's and Elder Jones's are all wrong.  {16MR 281.4}
[16MR 281.5]          I was pained when I saw your article in the Review, and for the last half hour I have been reading the references preceding your pamphlet. ［ELDER BUTLER'S 85-PAGE PAMPHLET BORE THE TITLE, THE LAW IN THE BOOK OF GALATIANS: IS IT THE MORAL LAW, OR DOES IT REFER TO THAT SYSTEM OF LAWS PECULIARLY JEWISH? IT WAS DISTRIBUTED TO THE DELEGATES WHO ATTENDED THE 1886 GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION.］                                            -282-     Now, my brother, things that you have said, many of them are all right. The principles that you refer to are right; but how this can harmonize with your pointed remarks to Dr. Waggoner, I cannot see. I think you are too sharp. And then when this is followed by a pamphlet published of your own views, be assured I cannot feel that you are just right at this point to do this unless you give the same liberty to Dr. Waggoner.  {16MR 281.5}
[16MR 282.1]         Had you avoided the question, which you state has been done, it would have been more in accordance with the light God has seen fit to give to me. I have had some impressive dreams ［SEE TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH, VOL. 5, PP. 571-573.］ that have led me to feel that you are not altogether in the light. Elder ［D. M.］ Canright was presenting his ideas upon the law, and such a mixed up concern I never heard. Neither of you seemed to see or understand where his arguments would lead to.  {16MR 282.1}
[16MR 282.2]         You seemed to be sitting in a boat in a shadow, and Elder Canright was turning the light down lower and lower.  {16MR 282.2}
[16MR 282.3]          And then someone said, "We have had enough of this. All this is as the shadow of night; it is the work of Satan."  {16MR 282.3}
[16MR 282.4]          Next he started up uneasy, groaning, and seemed to be like a man paralyzed, and declared he would leave the boat. He saw one that was sailing faster, and all on board apparently were happy. ［There was］ music and singing. He said, "I am going into that boat. I think this boat will go to pieces."  {16MR 282.4}
[16MR 282.5]          The Captain stood firmly and said, "I know every piece of timber in the ship, and it will outride every storm. But that boat has worm-eaten and decaying timbers. It will not endure the tempest."                                            -283-  {16MR 282.5}
[16MR 283.1]         I thought he said, "I am going on that boat if I perish with it."  {16MR 283.1}
[16MR 283.2]          Now, my brethren, I do not feel very happy and reassured when I think you have encouraged Elder Canright in giving lessons to the students in the college, and in pouring into the Review such a mass of matter as though he were bishop of the Methodist Church.  {16MR 283.2}
[16MR 283.3]          And then when that objectionable article came out, even if it did come out while Elder ［Uriah］ Smith was not present, who of you laid this matter open before him?  {16MR 283.3}
[16MR 283.4]          It seems I had to write him and speak plainly on this point. And he has used every check put on him by myself as a cause to throw himself.  {16MR 283.4}
[16MR 283.5]          I think if you had done your duty, I should not have been called upon to write to him. I have been shown and have told him that he was a loose writer, that he was ever seeking to be original, and that he gave assertion for proof; that he did not live and walk with God so that he could be a safe writer.  {16MR 283.5}
[16MR 283.6]          I advised his books to be suppressed, especially the one on the law, the very subject he was conversing with you in regard to. If that work is what I believe it to be, I would burn every copy in the fire before one should be given out to our people.  {16MR 283.6}
[16MR 283.7]          And after his apostasy, ［CANRIGHT LEFT THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH PERMANENTLY IN FEBRUARY, 1887.］ why need you say the things in regard to him you have? God did not treat apostates in this way, and if you had anything to say, say it without putting such things in the paper. I tell you, brethren, I am troubled when I see you take positions that you forbid others                                            -284-     to take and that you would condemn in others. I do not think this is the right way to deal with one another.  {16MR 283.7}
[16MR 284.1]         I want to see no Pharisaism among us. The matter now has been brought so fully before the people by yourself as well as Dr. Waggoner, that it must be met fairly and squarely in open discussion. I see no other way, and if this cannot be done without a spirit of Pharisaism, then let us stop publishing these matters and learn more fully lessons in the school of Christ.  {16MR 284.1}
[16MR 284.2]          I believe now that nothing can be done but open discussion. You circulated your pamphlet; now it is only fair that Dr. Waggoner should have just as fair a chance as you have had. I think the whole thing is not in God's order. But, brethren, we must have no unfairness. We must work as Christians. If we have any point that is not fully, clearly defined, and ［that］ can bear the test of criticism, don't be afraid or too proud to yield it.  {16MR 284.2}
[16MR 284.3]          I hope nothing I have sent you will be used to do a work the very opposite of that which I designed it should do. May the Lord help us, for the days of peril are upon us.  {16MR 284.3}
[16MR 284.4]          I cannot tell you how contemptible the course of Elder Canright is in my eyes. I can see farther in this matter from that which the Lord has shown me, than you can. But his course, his sudden change, speaks for itself. I believe we will have to have far more of the Spirit of God in order to escape the perils of these last days.  {16MR 284.4}
[16MR 284.5]          My brethren, we want self and pride in us to die. Self will struggle hard for an existence and for the mastery, but nevertheless it must die and we become as little children, or we shall never see the kingdom of heaven. We want to be imbued with the Spirit of Christ.                                            -285-  {16MR 284.5}
[16MR 285.1]          We see more and greater need of close communion with God and greater need of unity. Let us devote much time to seeking for heavenly wisdom. Let us be much with God in prayer. We want Bible evidence for every point we advance. We do not want to tide over points, as Elder Canright has done, with assertions.  {16MR 285.1}
[16MR 285.2]          What we want in every conflict is not words to condemn but the sword of the Spirit. We want the truth as it is in Jesus. We want to be filled with all the fullness of God, and have the meekness and lowliness of Christ.  {16MR 285.2}
[16MR 285.3]          We have a wily foe who will seize your sword and turn it against you unless you know how to use it skillfully. But let none feel that we know all the truth the Bible proclaims.  {16MR 285.3}
[16MR 285.4]          Elder Canright's course is contemptible, and do not seek to palliate it with soft words or smooth speeches.  {16MR 285.4}
[16MR 285.5]          I do not lose my faith in God nor in you, my brethren; neither do I consider that you are above temptations, but you are liable to make mistakes. One thing I do know: God will help us if we will seek Him most earnestly.  {16MR 285.5}
[16MR 285.6]          The gospel is not all peace. I have many conflicts; I have many wakeful hours; but I try to cast all my cares and burdens on Jesus. Painful doubts and fears assail me lest I shall not be faithful in the discharge of my every duty.  {16MR 285.6}
[16MR 285.7]          We will move steadfastly on, looking to Jesus, learning of Jesus, obtaining the love of Jesus, our hearts melted in tenderness toward each other.                                          -286-  {16MR 285.7}
[16MR 286.1]          The religion of Christ, I testify, is not one of gloom but of gladness. But when the gloom comes, then we must battle. Fight every inch by faith until we can triumph in faith. While we have cause to grieve over the sinfulness of others, we must pray more and cling more firmly to the promises.--Letter 13, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 30, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 286.1}
[16MR 287.1]       MR No. 1227 - The Use of Natural Remedies in the Treatment of Illnesses; Challenging the Church to Reach the Entire World with the Gospel         (Written April 6, 1899, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, to Dr. J. H. Kellogg.)        I have just read your letter. This, with the enclosures, was the only mail I received this month. I am very much better in health. I can accomplish a large amount of writing, and I find there are many things to engage my mind.  {16MR 287.1}
[16MR 287.2]          I wish I could see you face to face, but as I cannot I will write. Thank you for your prescription. I will be careful. The Lord help me, is my prayer, and I pray that the Lord may help you, my brother, that you may not take on too many burdens, and by so doing disqualify yourself for the management of them.  {16MR 287.2}
[16MR 287.3]         Should you be removed by sickness or death, who is there prepared to carry these responsibilities? The physicians under you may have an interest in this large and broad work, but they have not the long experience you have had. While you are in a position to educate, you should select a number of men, and train them to carry the responsibilities. Under your education, united with you, they may learn to do the work you have been doing by the help God has given you.  {16MR 287.3}
[16MR 287.4]          The influence you have gained in the medical profession is large and broad, and in some respects it has been as God would have it. You have                                          -288-     caused the light God has given you to shine forth to others, and this light has influenced others to labor in the different lines of the medical work. But according to the light the Lord has given me, something of the spirit of Freemasonry ［THE FREEMASONS ARE A SECRET SOCIETY BASED ON THE PRINCIPLES OF BROTHERLINESS, CHARITY AND MUTUAL AID. APPARENTLY ELLEN WHITE SAW A PARALLEL BETWEEN THE SPIRIT OF THE CLOSE-KNIT MEDICAL FRATERNITY AND THAT OF THE FREEMASONS.］ exists, and has built a wall about the work. The old, regular practice has been exalted as the only true method for the treatment of disease. And to a large degree this feeling has leavened the physicians connected with you. They have resorted to drugs in cases of fever--to break it up, as they have thought. This method has broken up fevers and other diseases, but in some cases it has broken up the whole man with it.  {16MR 287.4}
[16MR 288.1]         The Lord has been pleased to present this matter before me in clear lines. Fever cases need not be treated with drugs. The most difficult cases are best and most successfully managed by nature's own resources. This science, fully adopted, will bring the best results, if the practitioner will be thorough. The Lord will bless the physician who depends on natural methods, helping every function of the human machinery to act in its own strength the part the Lord designed it to act in restoring itself to proper action.  {16MR 288.1}
[16MR 288.2]          Dr. Kellogg, God has given you favor with the medical fraternity, and he would have you hold that favor. But in no case are you to stand as do the physicians of the world to exalt allopathy above every other practice, and call all other methods quackery and error; for from the beginning to the present time the results of allopathy have made a most objectionable                                          -289-     showing. There has been loss of life in your sanitarium because drugs have been administered, and these give no chance for nature to do her work of restoration. Drug medication has broken up the power of the human machinery, and the patients have died. Others have carried the drugs away with them, making less effective the simple remedies nature uses to restore the system. The students in your institution ［Battle Creek Sanitarium］ are not to be educated to regard drugs as a necessity. They are to be educated to leave drugs alone.  {16MR 288.2}
[16MR 289.1]          The medical fraternity, represented to me as Freemasonry, ［SEE FOOTNOTE ON PAGE 288.］ with their long, unintelligible names which common people cannot understand, would call the Lord's prescription for Hezekiah quackery. Death was pronounced upon the king, but he prayed for life, and his prayer was heard. Those who had the care of him were told to get a bunch of figs and put them on the sore, and the king was restored. This means was taken by God to teach them that all their preparations were only depriving the king of the power to rally and overcome disease. While they pursued their course of treatment, his life could not be saved. The Lord diverted their minds from their wonderful mysteries to a simple remedy of nature.  {16MR 289.1}
[16MR 289.2]         There are lessons for us all in these directions. Young men who are sent to Ann Arbor to obtain an education which they think will exalt them as supreme in their treatment of disease by drugs, will find that it will result in the loss of life rather than restoration to health and strength. These mixtures place a double taxation upon nature, and in the effort to                                          -290-     throw off the poisons they contain, thousands of persons lose their lives. We must leave drugs entirely alone, for in using them we introduce an enemy into the system. I write this because we have to meet this drug medication in the physicians in this country, and we do not want this practice, as in Battle Creek, to steal into our midst as a thief. We want the door closed against the enemy before the lives of human beings are imperiled.  {16MR 289.2}
[16MR 290.1]          Dr. Kellogg, I am perplexed to know what to do for means, but I do not ask you to take this burden upon you. God forbid that you should have any unnecessary burdens to bear. One thing I shall do: I shall make appeals to every church, irrespective of any persons in responsible positions. There is a work to be done in this country, and the people who have had the benefit of my husband's labor and my own in building up the work on the Pacific Coast and in Battle Creek must understand how hard we have labored, and help us. I do not call on the conference. I come to the people and appeal to them for help. If we can once get established, we shall work without assistance, but we must have help now. We cannot do without it.  {16MR 290.1}
[16MR 290.2]          You write that the conference ［brethren］ say that Australians had more means than any other place. That may be, but as long as the providence of God opens new fields for us, shall we refuse to enter them and refuse to establish in this new world a working force that will send laborers into other fields? How can the people hear without a preacher, and how can he preach except he be sent? We mean, by the help of God, to warn the world, to carry our testimony to regions beyond.  {16MR 290.2}
[16MR 290.3]          We are called upon by the Lord to preach the truth without delay. All the country between the places where interests are already established, is calling for the truth. We have the third angel's message, the commandments                                          -291-     of God and the faith of Jesus, and this truth is to encircle cities and towns. We are to carry the message from point to point, establishing in each a little community of missionaries. The workers in Australia are directed to enlarge the sphere of their labors by sending help to the unpromising fields in regions beyond, where the standard of truth has never yet been lifted.  {16MR 290.3}
[16MR 291.1]          We do not propose to colonize, to build up strong centers to the neglect of other fields. But we are to enlarge the circle of our operations, as those who believe they are giving the last message of warning to the world, as Christ gave to His disciples just before His ascension (Matthew 28:19, 20; Mark 16:19, 20). God's professed people in America should have been awake to do this work. In the place of centering so many interests in Battle Creek, plants should have been made in city after city. If they had been filled with zeal for the truth, they would have let their light shine to others, and would have labored to prepare a people to stand in the day of the Lord.  {16MR 291.1}
[16MR 291.2]          We may have had more means than some other places, but we have a showing for all this. Progressive work has been done. New fields have been entered, and still there are more opening around us. The word comes, Add new territory. We are to traverse all parts of Australia. Missionaries are needed who will come to this country to do earnest work for the Master. May the Lord arouse His people who know the truth to impart the knowledge they have. Let us pray each day the prayer, so full of meaning, that Christ gave His disciples: "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."                                          -292-  {16MR 291.2}
[16MR 292.1]          Aggressive warfare is before all who believe the truth. We are to make unbounded progress and improvement in carrying forward the work that mortal man is privileged to do under the command of the great General of armies. God sends His angels as ministering spirits to go before the true worker, and unite with him. The truth is to work our hearts by the Holy Spirit's power. We are to call upon those who know the truth to enter into the work of cooperating with the angels of God. We are to be discouraged at nothing. We are to hope for everything in moral advancement, in spreading the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ our Lord. We are to call upon the Lord in every emergency, at every step.  {16MR 292.1}
[16MR 292.2]          Living principles are laid down in the Word of God. Why do not believers read to a purpose and obey? Why do they not appoint themselves missionaries? We need families in Australia, not men and women who wish to be carried, but workers, wise men who can manage. We want those who can lift with us.  {16MR 292.2}
[16MR 292.3]          Our duty to the world is broad and deep. We are to do unto others as we would they should do unto us. The truth must go everywhere, and we want those who can plead with the Lord in prayer, who will bend the knee before God, abolishing the fashion which has come in among our people and has been transported by our workers to other countries, of standing like the Pharisees and praying to be heard of men. We want all who know God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, to bow low at His footstool, and pray that the world may hear the message of warning, that it may be caught up by those who hear it, and carried to those who know it not.  {16MR 292.3}
[16MR 292.4]          Let us kneel before God with humble hearts, and give expression to our reverence for Him. All pride, all pomposity, must be laid in the dust.                                          -293-     Make known your desires to God. The sincere, truehearted worker will not fail nor be discouraged, for God from His high and holy place looks upon the contrite one, and He will empower him at every step. He will set in action almighty agencies to warn the world to prepare to meet its God.  {16MR 292.4}
[16MR 293.1]          The human instruments through whom God works are not to stand, as now, in discord and variance. Those who have faith in Christ as their all-sufficient Saviour will be in perfect unison with Him. When self is hid with Christ in God, there will be no disunion, no variance, no strife. All will be in perfect sympathy with Christ to save the world in God's appointed way. God calls upon His church to minister for Him and with Him in the saving of perishing souls. Then in the place of drawing away from Christ and from one another, the workers will seek to keep the breath of life in the church. They will trim their lamps with the holy oil which the two olive branches will, through the two golden pipes, communicate to them. Light will be imparted by the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord of the whole earth.  {16MR 293.1}
[16MR 293.2]          God will test every church in our world. Those who know the truth but are not doers of the word are the worst stumbling blocks we could have in our work of advance. God calls upon His people to arouse and trim their lamps. Never till Zion travails for perishing souls can she see the working of the Holy Spirit in sinners born again. Christ is waiting to be gracious to those who will labor with one spirit and one mind to minister the truth for this time. Christ has appointed the Christian ministry and the various means of grace comprehended in the ministry. When unity in Christ is revealed, when Jesus is acknowledged by precept and practice, the Holy Spirit will reveal the willingness of the two anointed ones to empty                                          -294-     the golden oil out of themselves into the vessels prepared to receive it.-- Letter 67, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. December 4, 1986. Entire Letter.  {16MR 293.2}
[16MR 295.1]       MR No. 1228 - Dependence on God         ［2 Kings 6:15-23, quoted.］        When the people of God are brought into strait places, when apparently there is no escape for them, the Lord alone must be their dependence. There is, you think, a need to meet Picton. If you do meet him in controversy, to vindicate the truth, be sure that the Lord identifies His interest with you. Nothing should lead you into debate with men who have no honor for God or for man. Always refuse to enter into such a contest. If the honor of God demands that the truth be vindicated in a discussion, put self out of sight, and let Christ alone appear. Nothing can then befall you as a representative of Christ but that will redound to His name's glory. Open the heart in contrition to God. Do not follow your opponent, but cast the seeds of truth, leaving a present Christ to take care of the question.  {16MR 295.1}
[16MR 295.2]         "How shall we do?" ［THE QUESTION ASKED BY ELISHA'S SERVANT IN 2 KINGS 6:15.］ Stand upon the platform of eternal truth, and see the salvation of God. Bear in mind that we are praying for you. Do not let self manifest a spirit of retaliation. Guard your words, that they may drop as silver and gold. Never for a moment lose the consciousness that you are Christ's ambassador, speaking in Christ's stead.  {16MR 295.2}
[16MR 295.3]         The object of all ministry is to keep self out of sight, and to let Christ appear. The exaltation of Christ is the great truth that all who labor in word and doctrine are to reveal. At our late meeting men and women have been stirred. Thoughts that are strange and new have taken possession of human minds. Men are musing in their hearts, Are not these words sensible and true?                                          -296-  {16MR 295.3}
[16MR 296.1]          Every thought of this kind is the result of the Holy Spirit's working on the human mind. And if the advocates of these new themes and doctrines are sustained by the Word, if their spirit and actions make them witnesses for God, if the true light shines through them in clear, bright beams, if they reveal a patient, kind, forbearing spirit, the efforts made by the adversaries of truth, as in Christ's day, will be powerless. If these misapply truth, as they surely will, if they misinterpret and wrest the Scriptures in order to sustain error, if they make personal threats that they may stir your passions to retaliate, as they certainly will do, keep your words pure and calm. Remember that Jesus is by your side to help you to reveal His Spirit and not your own natural temperament.  {16MR 296.1}
[16MR 296.2]          You are God's delegated messenger. You are to act in His place. Then represent Christ, and not your individual, rash temperament. Angels of God are close beside you, and they will keep you in peace, and will give you words to speak which will be as a sweet odor. This will show that you have the Spirit of Christ and of the truth. It is not by your show of knowledge or of superior talent or philosophy that you reveal Christ, but by keeping your own soul emptied of your natural self.  {16MR 296.2}
[16MR 296.3]          "Then answered I, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof? And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches which through the golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves? And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the lord of the whole earth" ［Zechariah 4:11-14］.                                           -297-  {16MR 296.3}
[16MR 297.1]          These empty themselves into the golden bowls, which represent the hearts of the living messengers of God, who bear the word of the Lord to the people in warnings and entreaties. The word itself must be as represented, the golden oil, emptied from the two olive trees that stand by the Lord of the whole earth. This is the baptism by the Holy Spirit with fire. This will open the soul of unbelievers to conviction. The wants of the soul can be met only by the working of the Holy Spirit of God. Man can of himself do nothing to satisfy the longings and meet the aspirations of the heart.  {16MR 297.1}
[16MR 297.2]          Keep Jesus constantly in view, telling of One mightier than yourself. God would have His own people true to principle, servants of a great Creator, doing their work as shepherds of the flock of God, ever presenting the greater Shepherd, that the eyes of their hearers may be attracted to the fountain of light, and that Christ our Lord shall be exalted in word, in manner, in spirit, in calm self-possession. Let the watchword be, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."  {16MR 297.2}
[16MR 297.3]          "Then the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. . . . This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." The work before every soul who has the light of Bible truth is to allow himself to be worked by the Holy Spirit. God's people are appointed to prepare the world for the great event of the coming of our Lord.  {16MR 297.3}
[16MR 297.4]          Teachers of truth need always to remember that the church militant is not the church triumphant. The servants of God must not strive for the mastery, ［nor］ seek to be recognized as great men, but as good men. Envy                                          -298-     and jealousy have corrupted many souls to their ruin. God's servants must learn to lean upon no human support. They are not to be dependent on human praise or deference, or ［to be］ depressed by human censure. Neither are they to look for human recompence. Their record is not kept by human figures, but kept by One on high.  {16MR 297.4}
[16MR 298.1]          Bear in mind, ye ministers of God, that you must keep your own spirit free and uncontaminated by the alloy of human devising. There is a high and holy standard for you to reach. Let the peace of God calm and soothe your minds and hearts. Then with Paul you can say, "It is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment" ［1 Corinthians 4:3］.  {16MR 298.1}
[16MR 298.2]          My message to you, my brother, is that the great cause of truth is not to be imperiled by wayward human impulse or caprice. Let your shining not be as the meteor flash, to go out in darkness. Let your light be the reflected light of the Sun of Righteousness. Let the bright and morning Star appear shining steadily above you in changeless glory.  {16MR 298.2}
[16MR 298.3]          Often the very best men, those whom God uses to His name's glory, are unrecognized by human wisdom, but not for one moment are they forgotten by God. 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 in that lonely island home where His servant was imprisoned. The world and the bigoted priests and rulers rejoiced that they were at last rid of his ever fresh testimony. ［1 John 1:1-3, quoted］.  {16MR 298.3}
[16MR 298.4]          This whole chapter is full of brave courage, of hope and faith and assurance. It was because of this testimony, so amazing to those who wished                                          -299-     to forget Christ, who hated the crucified Redeemer, whom they had rejected, that they wished to get that voice beyond their hearing, that his testimony might no more be a witness against their wicked deeds in crucifying the Lord of glory. But they could not put him in any place where his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ could not find him.  {16MR 298.4}
[16MR 299.1]          Christ's servants who are true and faithful may be unrecognized and unhonored by men who may be united with Seventh-day Adventists, but the Lord will honor them. They will not be forgotten by God. He will honor them by His presence because they have been found true and faithful. Those who have grown old in the cause and work of God have an experience of great value for the church. God honors His servants who have grown old in His service. The most glorious truths concerning the last chapters of this earth's history were given to the aged disciple whom Jesus loved.  {16MR 299.1}
[16MR 299.2]          How vain are the devices of man against God! Man may propose and plan and devise, but the Lord disposes of all matters to His own name's glory. Let us bear in mind that one of the most painful occurrences connected with religious controversy is the too-often ungenerous, unrighteous bearing of self in those who are engaged in it. They speak sharp things which are only reflected back to injure themselves. All controversies are to be shunned, for they seldom advance the truth. Human passion should never appear in religious controversy. We are not to silence and humiliate, but to convince men of the truth as it is in Jesus. Evil is to be overcome with good.  {16MR 299.2}
[16MR 299.3]          The Lord will take in hand all who are unreasonable and wicked and deceiving. "Vengeance is mine: I will repay, saith the Lord." Let no movement be made that will discourage inquiry or examination, but meet all                                          -300-     opposition with meekness of wisdom. Let not one hard stone be thrown to hit an opponent. In the course he pursues he is deciding his own eternal destiny.  {16MR 299.3}
[16MR 300.1]          Hard references, personal applications, charging upon an opponent, are not the work given to any mortal who is in Christ's service. We must be true as steel to principle, true to our loyalty to God, all the while considering that he who opposes the truth is opposing the counsel of God against himself. Let your heart melt with pity for the one whose heart is enclosed with the meshes of Satan. While supposing that he is doing God service, he is fighting against the truth. He cannot discern this to be truth, because he will not come to the truth to search for the truth with unprejudiced mind. The love of Christ should be in our hearts.  {16MR 300.1}
[16MR 300.2]          All who advocate the truth should have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. There is to be no compromise of the truth. Steadfast principle is to be maintained by Christ's followers who love the truth. They must show what the truth has done for them in transformation of character, making them kind and courteous peace lovers and peacemakers. Such shall be called the children of God.  {16MR 300.2}
[16MR 300.3]          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 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.--Ms 109, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C., Jan., 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 300.3}
[16MR 301.1]       MR No. 1229 - An Appeal to a Self-Centered Wife to Repent and Reform         (Written March 23, 1890, from Chicago, Illinois, to "Dear Brother Craig," with internal messages to Mrs. Craig and her mother.)  {16MR 301.1}
[16MR 301.2]          I hoped the change which seemed to take place in your wife at the meeting in Chicago would be lasting, and was so grateful to our heavenly Father when I heard her confession, for I thought that a most severe task was lifted from my shoulders; but the burden is still upon me. I know that she is not changed for the better. The dangers and difficulties which she will create if her whims are gratified are almost incredible to those who do not understand the spirit which actuates her. Her early education has been so neglected by her mother that she has no sense of the duties which devolve upon her as a wife. She feels under no obligation to love and obey her husband or to yield to the authority of God. She does not know what true love is. She has not been educated to self-control. Her life experience and education have been such as to disqualify her for the position of a wife.  {16MR 301.2}
[16MR 301.3]          She is a terrible burden to her husband, for she does not try to make herself useful or bear her share of life's responsibilities. If she would reason, she would see how unjust it is for her to expect him to labor for her support while she gives herself up to annoy, perplex, and harass him. She adds nothing to the family income, yet thinks it her privilege to spend as she pleases. At the same time she feels at liberty to give way to her feelings like a spoiled child, taking offense at nothing, and indulging in outbursts of passion until life is a burden to him. When away from her                                          -302-     husband she is cheerful, and appears to be well, as long as she can have her own way.  {16MR 301.3}
[16MR 302.1]          When she wants to do a thing, she can endure what many women would think a heavy tax upon their physical powers. But when desired to do anything which is distasteful to her, she assumes the air of a martyr, and is incapable of any exertion. Much of her illness is feigned, in order to create a sensation. She is angry with her husband because she cannot make him submit to her control, because he has tried to preserve his identity, and not yield up his God-given manhood.  {16MR 302.1}
[16MR 302.2]          She thinks that everyone must do as her mother and others have done-- indulge her and consult her wishes; and she is determined to bring them to it. Should her husband yield to her, he would lose his manhood; and should those whom God has placed over the Chicago mission pet her and gratify her wishes, they would be unfaithful to their trust. Should her spirit be allowed to have the ascendancy in the mission, evil angels would become the ruling power.  {16MR 302.2}
[16MR 302.3]         However earnestly her husband may endeavor to pursue a straightforward course to serve God, she will be his evil angel, seeking to lead him away from righteousness. In her own estimation she is the idol he must worship; in fact, she is Satan's agent, seeking to occupy the place where God should be. She has followed the impulses of her own unconsecrated heart until Satan has almost complete control of her.  {16MR 302.3}
[16MR 302.4]          Sister Craig has never been trained to self-control. She has but very slight depth of mind, and little ability to discern sacred things. She does not enjoy the self-denying, self-sacrificing part that all must learn who enter heaven. But she is sharp enough in carrying out her own will and in making a false impression upon her husband's mind. She can indeed be very                                           -303-     courteous and pleasing if everything goes to suit her, but there is no solidity to her character. She has well learned the secret of acting for effect, of creating a sensation to call attention to her small self. I have seen but few persons as successful in making self the center of attraction when there was so little sweet, noble, genuine attractiveness in the character.  {16MR 302.4}
[16MR 303.1]          But unless she changes her course, this acting for effect, this desperate maneuvering to force the attention of her husband and gain his sympathy, will finally be repeated once too many times, and God will give her fully into the hands of Satan. Unless there is a change, a time will come soon when this lower nature in the wife, controlled by a will as strong as steel, will bring down the strong will of the husband to her own low level. His will would then be merged in that of the impulsive, inconsistent, insane wife. He would no longer be a man, for the satanic mold upon the character of the wife would be upon him also. His sympathies would no longer be pure and uncorrupted, like fine gold, but they would be deteriorated. His energies would be enfeebled, his life distorted.  {16MR 303.1}
[16MR 303.2]          Brother Craig has felt that it was his duty to fight her battles, become as inconsistent in her behalf as she is herself, see through her eyes, and contend for her rights; for unless he does this, she will indulge in those awful outbursts of passion. Her oft-repeated assertions draw upon his sympathies, and a continual burden is cast upon him by her manufactured physical disabilities. In her mother's house her will was law. However inconsistent and perverse her course, it was regarded as resulting from a physical condition for which all allowance must be made. It was thought that her every demand must be met.                                      -304-  {16MR 303.2}
[16MR 304.1]          But the folly of the mother and other relatives must not become the folly of the husband. Should he follow in their footsteps, his life and hers also would be wrecked. Better would it be had they never been born. As it is, she is a fit subject for the insane asylum; for God has shown me that she throws herself wholly into the hands of Satan, soul, body and spirit, and his power through her is deadening the fine sensibilities of right and integrity in her husband.  {16MR 304.1}
[16MR 304.2]          If she were a child, she could be treated as such; these outbursts of temper could be punished as those of a self-willed, passionate child. But she is a woman, and her husband cannot force her perverse will to be reasonable. Never will this exacting temperament be improved by yielding to it. Her tragical performances are enacted to frighten her husband into complying with her demands, and he must yield or have a scene. As Satan sees how he can work through her when she thus casts soul and body into his hands--that he can use her as he pleases--he will throw her into these paroxysms more and more, whenever her will is crossed. In this case it is not the woman whom Brother Craig is dealing with, but a desperate, satanic spirit.  {16MR 304.2}
[16MR 304.3]          The Lord has a work for Brother Craig to do, but if he is overcome by these outbursts on the part of his wife, he is a lost man, and she is not saved by the sacrifice.  {16MR 304.3}
[16MR 304.4]          His best course with this child-wife, so overbearing, so unyielding, and so uncontrollable, is to take her home and leave her with the mother who has made her what she is. Though it must be painful, this is the only thing for him to do if he would not be ruined spiritually, sacrificed to the demon of hysterics and satanic imaginings. Satan takes entire control of her                                            -305-     temper and will, and uses them like desolating hail to beat down every obstruction. Her husband can do her no good, but is doing himself incalculable harm, and robbing God of the talents and influence He has given.  {16MR 304.4}
[16MR 305.1]          God has placed the husband at the head of the family; and until Sister Craig shall learn her place and duties as a wife, it will be best for him not to be connected with her in any way. The wife is to respect and obey; but if she utterly refuses to keep the marriage vow, she will be more and more the sport of Satan's temptations; and if her husband consents to keep her by his side, to wear out his life, he will become discouraged and unfitted for the Lord's service. He is under no obligations to keep one by his side who will only torture his soul. I was shown that he has already been losing his manhood, and has been influenced and molded by his wife. Their marriage was a snare of Satan.  {16MR 305.1}
[16MR 305.2]          Sister Craig is determined to rule or ruin. I was shown that she has so thoroughly yielded herself into Satan's hands that her husband fears for her reason, but he will make one of the gravest mistakes of his life if he permits himself to be controlled by Satan through the device of his wife. I tell you plainly, she is controlled by demons, and if these evil spirits have their way, your liberty, Brother Craig, your manhood are gone; you are a slave to her caprices. If you yield to her sway, she will surely be an instrument in the hands of Satan to separate you from God. She will suggest evil surmisings and suspicions that will break up the harmony and confidence between you and those in the mission with whom you should be in perfect union. The fact that persons have been called of God to fill positions of                                          -306-     trust in the mission awakens no respect for them in her heart if they interfere with her likes and dislikes.  {16MR 305.2}
[16MR 306.1]          Distrust, unjust criticism, and insubordination will be the fruit of the satanic spirit that dwells in this child (for she is nothing but a child)--indulged, petted, and determined to control everyone in the household. But this must not be allowed in the mission. The Lord would have Brother Craig be His faithful servant, a steward in the mission, a growing man, strengthening in intellect, becoming better and better qualified to do the work of the Master.  {16MR 306.1}
[16MR 306.2]          Sister Craig must have a thorough transformation of character or she will never enter heaven. She now studies herself, pleases herself. She will pursue any course to secure admiration of self. If her wishes are not gratified, she works herself up into a perfect fury. If she continues in this way, Satan will so work through her that even the life of her husband will be unsafe. She cares not for God, heaven, or hell. Jesus looks upon her with sorrow--that one for whom He has sacrificed His own life should value her soul so lightly as to give it into the hands of Satan.  {16MR 306.2}
[16MR 306.3]          If, through the grace of Christ, Sister Craig would bend her determined will to the work of putting away the wicked spirit which controls her, and would use the knowledge she has to good purpose, then she might be a blessing rather than a curse to her husband. But if she will not heed the counsels of God, I have been shown that the only course for her husband to pursue is to leave her with her parents, that her mother may bear the affliction which her own mismanagement has caused. Had she in her youth been made to feel the rod of correction instead of receiving unwise sympathy and indulgence, her husband would not now be placed in so great peril as he is.                                          -307-  {16MR 306.3}
[16MR 307.1]          Whatever course Brother Craig takes now, he will be censured. If he continues to live with her, she will make their married life a reign of terror. Unless he permits her to pervert his senses, to poison his mind against his brethren, he will have to maintain constant warfare. Not only will his manhood be sacrificed, but he will lose his integrity, and all to please a woman who is so determined to rule her husband, both mind and body, that she will give to Satan her soul, body, and spirit, in order for him to accomplish the work she would see done. She is just as much possessed by a demon as was the man who tore and cut himself when Jesus cast out the devils.  {16MR 307.1}
[16MR 307.2]          Brother Craig is sorely afflicted by these exhibitions on the part of his wife; but never, never must the power of Satan exercised through her, or through him on her account, be allowed to control the mission. Better by far let her stay in her mother's home till her character is transformed and the demon is dispossessed; until she shall be willing to receive counsel and help, sitting meekly at the feet of Jesus, learning precious lessons in the school of Christ.  {16MR 307.2}
[16MR 307.3]          I was shown that we must do all that is in our power to open Sister Craig's eyes to her wrong course; and if this fails we must try to open the eyes of Brother Craig that he may not be betrayed into error through her perverted vision, and the wisdom of God be taken from him.  {16MR 307.3}
[16MR 307.4]          If Sister Craig continues her present course, the time is not far distant when it will be impossible for her to break this power at will. Already Satan holds almost complete control of her will, her mind, and her judgment. No one through whom he works in such a manifest manner should be connected with God's work.                                          -308-  {16MR 307.4}
[16MR 308.1]          There are but few men strong enough to resist, day after day, week after week, such a will as that of Sister Craig, and she can create a scene whenever her will is crossed, or whenever the wicked one will play upon her, which is coming to be a common occurrence. But in this Brother Craig must let Satan rage, and not allow himself to be cut off from religious privileges because his wife desires it. If she runs away, let her go. Even if she threatens to take her own life, do not yield to her wicked demands. Even if she should carry out her threat, it would be better to look upon her silent in death than to allow her to murder not only her own soul but that of her husband, and be the means of destroying many others.  {16MR 308.1}
[16MR 308.2]          Brother Craig, you have been terrified by the violence of your wife, but the course for you to pursue is the straightforward path of truth, righteousness, and wisdom, having the fear of God always before you. Satan is already exulting over his success.  {16MR 308.2}
[16MR 308.3]          Sister Craig, I would not present this matter as I do were there not another life so closely bound up with yours, and ［were not］ that the life of one whom God has chosen to be His servant. This marriage ought not to have been, but the step has been taken, and for your husband the work of overcoming is now tenfold more severe than if he had never seen you. Will you think seriously over this question, whether his usefulness shall be destroyed and his life become a failure because of your course? I warn him that if he praises or pets you, it will only increase your self-satisfaction. You are seeking to bend his will and conscience to your pleasure; and the more you are indulged, the stronger and more determined your self-will becomes. What do you propose to do? What course will you pursue?                                          -309-  {16MR 308.3}
[16MR 309.1]          I was presented with a view of the errors of your past life, and was brought down to the present time. All along are seen the sure results of the injudicious training of your unwise mother who was not a practical doer of the Word. The discipline of children is a very nice work, one freighted with eternal responsibilities. Your mother's religious life has been marred by her worldly spirit and worldly associations. She has had a knowledge of the truth, but how little influence have Bible principles had upon her life and character! The mother's characteristics have been transmitted to you, who have less experience and less power to control them than she had.  {16MR 309.1}
[16MR 309.2]          With a will like granite, you are a bundle of false ideas--false views of life, false views of your husband, of yourself, of everyone whose will you cannot bend to your own. Instead of being a modest, God-fearing, humble woman, you are bold, exacting, tyrannical. Thank God, you have no children to reproduce your characteristics.  {16MR 309.2}
[16MR 309.3]          Your mother needs to repent before God of her disregard of His word in the education and training she has given you. Did she not know that the mold of character she was giving you, one of the younger members of the Lord's family, was disqualifying you to become a member of the Lord's family in heaven? Did she not know that by her indulgence she was encouraging a will that would attempt to rule or ruin all who came in contact with it? Did she not know that the character forming under her hands was preparing her daughter to disregard the wishes of others and to dishonor God, to follow the impulse of her own unsanctified will?                                          -310-  {16MR 309.3}
[16MR 310.1]          In the fear of God I would address a few words to the mother. Take to your own home the wayward child you have petted and indulged. I can never describe to you how offensive to God is your work in the formation in your child of a character that will ruin the life of a man whom God loves, whom God claims as His steward. You have made a great mistake in dealing with her, and you should be the one to carry the burden of her distorted character. All your neglected duty God has recorded in His book, and you must meet it again. Your daughter is an offense to God, for she is insulting Him by a course of action that, if continued, must ruin her own soul, and that tends to drag her husband down to her low level. Her influence tends to hinder the spiritual advancement of all with whom she comes in contact.  {16MR 310.1}
[16MR 310.2]          Parents should be impressed with their solemn obligation to do God's will in the education and training of their children. How important that they lay aside their own will and inclination and take hold of their work in the fear of God!  {16MR 310.2}
[16MR 310.3]          Sister Craig, what did you expect of your husband when you married him? Did you expect to take the reins of government in your own hands, and bring his will into harmony with that perverse, stubborn will of yours? How much rest, contentment, peace, and joy has your husband realized in his married life? But very little. Married life is not all romance; it has its real difficulties and its homely details. The wife must not consider herself a doll, to be tended, but a woman, one to put her shoulder under the real, not imaginary, burdens, and live an understanding, thoughtful life, considering that there are other things to be thought of than herself.  {16MR 310.3}
[16MR 310.4]          Do you think it is no disappointment to your husband that he finds you what God has shown me you are? Did he marry you with the expectation that                                       -311-     you would bear no burdens, share no perplexities, exercise no self-denial? Did he think that you would feel under no obligation to control self, to be cheerful, kind, and forbearing, and to exercise common sense?  {16MR 310.4}
[16MR 311.1]          Real life has its shadows and its sorrows. To every soul troubles must come. Satan is constantly working to unsettle the faith and destroy the courage and hope of everyone. Your husband has had a horrible awakening as he has seen what is the nature of her whom he has vowed to love and cherish till death do you part. He sees himself fastened to one who cares for no one but herself. Your imaginary trials, your manufactured physical disabilities, make the outlook most discouraging. You have scarcely any knowledge of practical life and duty. A life of principle is almost unknown to you. Self-pleasing bounds your world.  {16MR 311.1}
[16MR 311.2]          When the grace of Christ dwells in the heart it will make the manners gentle and subdued. There will be no deception, no pretense, no self-admiration, no reckless association with worldlings. There will be a far greater sense of pain at praise than at censure. The thought that Christ has died for sinners should be ever present, for it will have a tendency to subdue and expel every vestige of self-love, of self-seeking, of idolatry of self. On the part of every soul that loves God there will be earnest, continuous study of His Word, and earnest prayer. Instead of being earthly, and carnally minded, the trembling believer will turn to the Stronghold as a prisoner of hope.  {16MR 311.2}
[16MR 311.3]          I entreat you, my poor, weak, erring sister, to accept the strength that is waiting your demand upon it. Though you have felt the movings of the Spirit of God on your heart, you know nothing as yet of practical religion. The life of the soul, like that of the body, is affected to a                                           -312-     great degree by the food which sustains it. The soul that finds in Christ and His matchless love the Bread of life will have a sound, solid experience; but he who is satisfied with this world, its customs, its sayings, and its doings, will be worthless in this life, and will fail of gaining the future life. Your mind is almost wholly absorbed in those things that are of no value, those things that amuse the mind but give it no spiritual strength. Before Christ who paid the redemption money for your soul, you show yourself unworthy to have your name retained in the book of life; for you set your heart upon earthly things and that earthly wisdom which is foolishness with God.  {16MR 311.3}
[16MR 312.1]          Will you, my sister, look well to your worthless life, and not think it sufficient when you do get a glance at it, to mourn over it and then forget all about it and go on doing worse than ever? Will you see the false gods at whose shrine you worship? "The prayer of the upright is His delight," but the unstable shall not receive anything from the Lord. Will you, dear child, separate yourself from the world, and cease to love its society? Bring Christ into all your associations; then the dark, sinful soul will have chapters of the love of Jesus open to its contemplation. When you partake of Christ, His goodness, His way, become yours, His will subdues your will. The words that come from your lips now you think to be smart, but oh, how painful they are to the heart that loves Jesus! If they were written out as you speak them, you would see a medley of nonsense, of foolishness, of bitterness, wrath, envy, malice. Festivals, lectures, concerts are the food you relish, with a little so-called religion mixed in as flavor.  {16MR 312.1}
[16MR 312.2]         Whom has your life blessed? What kind of worker are you in your Master's vineyard? What fruit are you bearing to the glory of God?                                         -313-  {16MR 312.2}
[16MR 313.1]          There will necessarily be many who want to receive in the mission an education for the work of God. Your husband's position leads the new ones in the faith, and those who are connected with him in the mission, to suppose you to be a Christian, and not the frivolous-minded, irreligious person you are. Your influence is such as will lead souls away from Jesus. Therefore your example is a detriment to the mission. If there is not a decided change in you, the sooner you are separated from the mission the better, for the Lord is not pleased with you.  {16MR 313.1}
[16MR 313.2]          Your husband should not merge his identity in you. The marriage vow that binds the husband to the wife must remain unbroken, but he has vows to his Lord, to love Him with the whole heart, the undivided affection. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; . . . This do, and thou shalt live." It is his duty to place himself where he can honor God with mind, soul, body, and spirit, even if he never looks upon your face again. By your endless talk of cheap, earthly, carnal things, and your outbursts of passion, you are constantly creating a condition of things that tends to absorb his thoughts, to divert his mind from God, and to disqualify him for his work.  {16MR 313.2}
[16MR 313.3]          He has one duty before him--to preserve himself from being compelled to come to your level, by giving himself to some branch of the work of God. He belongs to the Creator in the highest sense; Jesus has bought him with His own blood, and requires him to be wholly united with Him in the work He has for him to do. If your influence interposes between him and the Lord, he could ［should?］ place you in a position where you will be as little hindrance to him as possible. He must not allow you to spoil his usefulness by mingling your carnal, earthly foolishness with all his experience.                                           -314-  {16MR 313.3}
[16MR 314.1]          You can, my sister, be made better by your husband's influence; but if you are not, he will most assuredly be hindered by the atmosphere that surrounds your life. How difficult for him to perfect a religious character while constantly breathing this atmosphere! How hard for him when in your company to elevate his soul to pure, spiritual thoughts! How difficult to keep in mind fruitful subjects of meditation! How often he is perplexed to know just what course he should pursue toward you! You are a stumbling block to him, whether he sees it or not.  {16MR 314.1}
[16MR 314.2]          God, who searches the heart, takes notice of its desires. He will forgive your past life of frivolity, your pretense, your deception, if you will now repent and seek His grace, that you may live unto Him and Him alone. "The Lord looketh upon the heart." "He remembereth that we are dust." "I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their own thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto My words, nor to My law, but rejected it." This need not be your case, but it will be unless you turn square about.  {16MR 314.2}
[16MR 314.3]         You cannot make this change yourself, but Jesus can, and will do this if you ask Him and submit yourself wholly to Him, not seeking your own will but God's will, no longer trying to please self but educating yourself to be useful. Your time is golden and should be spent in seeking to lay up a treasure in the heavens. You must forget your darling self. Live no longer to please yourself, but to please God.  {16MR 314.3}
[16MR 314.4]          But if you will not do this, then your husband must remember that he is God's property, the purchase of the blood of Christ. The Lord has a work for him to do, and if the enemy works through you to thwart His purpose,                                            -315-     there is but one course for him to take--to go forth to his work independent of your influence, and give himself wholly to God. If he does this, he will, through the grace of Christ, save his own soul, and through this course may be the means of saving your soul. But he is not now doing the work which God requires him to do. He is not to indulge your unconsecrated desires by his means or consent, but should restrain them.  {16MR 314.4}
[16MR 315.1]          My sister, is eternal life of any value to you? If so, you should make this manifest. Where is the humility you should feel because of your deficiencies? The only real, unequivocal proof that we are true Christians, is that, being branches of the living Vine and deriving our nutriment from Jesus, we bear fruit, fragrant fruit, of which the Spirit is the source. Then we shall have a beautiful character, a good, unselfish heart. Our words, our actions, our very thoughts will bear a continual testimony that we are branches of the true and living Vine. There is not conjecture; the divine credentials are manifest, testifying that we are in Christ and Christ in us.  {16MR 315.1}
[16MR 315.2]          If your spirit, my sister, were in harmony with that of Christ, you would not suggest one word of envy or suspicion to your husband's mind. No thought of evil would germinate and spring up to bear fruit and result in separating you and him from the work. "Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away, and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." Seek the Lord with all your heart before it shall be too late.--Letter 34, 1890.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. January, 1987. Entire Letter.  {16MR 315.2}
[16MR 316.1]      MR No. 1230 - Cooperation with God and Fellow Workers Necessary for Success in Fulfilling Gospel Commission              (Written August 29, 1878, from Ballardvale, Massachusetts, to "Dear Brethren in Switzerland.")  {16MR 316.1}
[16MR 316.2]          For several weeks past I have felt anxious to address you by letter, and do not dare to delay longer. Although in the midst of interesting meetings, I feel so exercised that I am constrained to write you. The Lord was pleased to come very near me while I was in Oregon. I had a very marked experience. I was brought into a sacred nearness to God. He revealed to me many things. I was shown missionary fields, and that the angel of mercy was flying swiftly with the light of truth to these new fields in Europe. I was shown that many more in Switzerland might have been brought to believe the truth, but those who first accepted the Sabbath have themselves been hindrances to the onward movement of the truth among them.  {16MR 316.2}
[16MR 316.3]         God has sent you two of his ministers in Brethren Bourdeau and Andrews. These are men of marked experience and conscientiousness. Especially is this the case with Brother Andrews. But you have not cooperated with them as God would have you. You had your peculiar ideas, and because our American brethren did not meet your ideas in some particulars, you were jealous of them, and have not assisted them in many instances when you might have done so. The more extensive experience of these men in the workings of the cause of God demanded your respect and a willingness on your part to be instructed by them. You are responsible for making their work very much harder than it would otherwise have been. Unfortunately, Elder Bourdeau became unbalanced, which greatly injured his influence. This has been felt by you.                                        -317-  {16MR 316.3}
[16MR 317.1]          You have not been willing to be led. You have not comprehended the wants of the cause in all its bearings. Your views have been very limited. Many of you have been conceited and self-righteous, and your own course has hedged up the way for the advancement of the precious cause of present truth.  {16MR 317.1}
[16MR 317.2]          God put it into the hearts of the American brethren to give of their means to spread the truth in Europe. Brother Andrews left his aged mother, an only brother (his brother he will not meet again until he meets him around the great white throne), and many friends in America, to obey the call of God and enter this new missionary field. He came to you at quite a sacrifice. You have received him with distrust, with doubt and jealousy. You have not taken him into your hearts as a true servant of Jesus Christ. In this you have grieved your Saviour. You have slighted Jesus in the person of His saints.  {16MR 317.2}
[16MR 317.3]          I was shown that a very much greater work might have been done had you been humble and teachable, and had you heartily cooperated with those who have been sent to you. You have failed to do this ignorantly. Nevertheless, had you stood in the light you would have recognized the voice of Jesus in His servants whom He has sent to you. This slight and distrust and withdrawal of sympathy have been as though manifested toward the Master Himself.  {16MR 317.3}
[16MR 317.4]          Brother Ademar Vuilleumier was cherished in America as one of the servants of Jesus Christ, but he has not responded to the efforts made in his behalf. He added to the difficulties of Brother Andrews' work by not correctly interpreting his words. He thus made Brother A's remarks appear                                        -318-   objectionable. Had Brother V possessed the true missionary spirit, he might have made Brother A's work much easier.  {16MR 317.4}
[16MR 318.1]         There are others, whom I have never seen, who have not cooperated with Brother A but have rather made the brethren afraid of him. This is a bad work which will stand against you in the day of God unless you repent of this great sin and put it away. You have spiritual pride. Your ideas are narrow, and you will always be a hindrance to the advancement of the cause of present truth unless you assume a different attitude.  {16MR 318.1}
[16MR 318.2]         Jesus is our example in all things. His influence was broad and extended. No teacher ever placed such signal honor upon man as did our Lord and Master. He was known as a "friend of publicans and sinners." He mingled with all classes of society that all might partake of the blessings He came to bestow. He was found in the synagogues and in the marketplaces. He shared the social life of His countrymen, gladdening with His presence the households of all who invited Him. But He never urged His way uninvited. He was active to relieve every species of human misery that was brought to Him in faith for relief; but He did not bestow healing power indiscriminately where there was manifested an independence and selfish exclusiveness that would give no expression to their sorrows nor ask for the help so much needed. All who came unto Him in faith He was ready and willing to relieve. Sorrow fled at His presence; injustice and oppression withered beneath His rebukes; and death and hell, the cruel spoilers of our sinful race, humbled themselves before Him and obeyed His commands.  {16MR 318.2}
[16MR 318.3]         In every age of the world there have been some who professed Christ while they were pursuing an erroneous course of seclusion or of Pharisaical                                       -319-   preeminence. But they have not blessed their fellow men. They have found no excuse in the life of Christ for this self-righteous bigotry, for His character was genial and beneficent. He would have been excluded from every monastic order on earth because of overstepping their prescribed rules. In every church and denomination are to be found erratics who would have blamed Him for His liberal mercies. They would have found fault with Him because He ate with publicans and sinners.  {16MR 318.3}
[16MR 319.1]         They would have accused Him of worldly conformity in attending a wedding feast, and would have censured Him severely and criticized His conduct unmercifully for permitting His friends to make a supper in honor of Himself and His disciples. But on these very occasions, by His precious teachings and by His generous conduct, He was enshrining Himself in the hearts of those whom He honored with His presence. He was thus giving them an opportunity to become acquainted with Himself so that they might have a knowledge of His character, and might see the marked contrast which His life and teachings presented to that of the Pharisees who were spies upon His track, condemning every move He made which was not in harmony with their bigoted, selfish, ideas of salvation.  {16MR 319.1}
[16MR 319.2]         While we may maintain a firm trust in God, receiving light and strength and power from Him, it is our duty to let the light reflected upon us shine forth to others, that the world may see this light in contrast with the darkness of error and superstition. My dear brethren in Switzerland, you have much to learn. There is an icy chilliness, a reserve, like that of the Pharisees, that must be broken down. You are not willing to become learners, but, like the Pharisees, desire to be dictators, teachers.                                        -320-  {16MR 319.2}
[16MR 320.1]         God sent His Son to give the Pharisees a better understanding of His claims, a more perfect knowledge of the truth, and to show them the best manner in which to help their fellow men. But they refused the divine instruction. They thought Christ was too liberal. His ways did not agree with their ways; and instead of thinking the improvement must be made in their lives, to bring them into harmony with the life of Christ, they wanted to convert Christ to a unison with them. They thought His differing in manner from them would hurt their influence and disannul their teachings. They refused to cooperate with Christ, and thus cast their influence against Him, working out their own purposes, which placed them in irretrievable darkness.  {16MR 320.1}
[16MR 320.2]          Those with whom God has entrusted His truth must so order their intercourse with the world as to secure to themselves a calm, hallowed peace, as well as a sacred and most thorough knowledge of how to meet men with their prejudices, where they are, and minister to them light, comfort, and peace found in the acceptance of the truth of God. They should take for ［their］ example the inspiring, authoritative, and social life of Christ. They must cultivate the same beneficent spirit which He possessed, and must cherish the same broad plans of action in meeting men where they are. They should have a kind, generous spirit toward the poor, and in a special sense feel that we are God's stewards. They must hold all they have as not their own but lent them in trust to advance the cause of Christ upon the earth. Like Christ, they should not shun the society of their fellow men, but encourage it, with the purpose of bestowing upon others the heavenly benefits God has given them.                                          -321-  {16MR 320.2}
[16MR 321.1]          Our adorable Redeemer left the royal courts of heaven because He saw that men needed His presence upon the earth, and that they could not come to a correct knowledge of the truth without it. He brought divine power and infinite knowledge to man. But "wonder O heavens, and be astonished O earth!" Men refused to accept the light brought to them from heaven by Jesus Christ, choosing their own ways, their own defective knowledge. And when the Majesty of heaven came to the earth as a teacher, the Jews wanted to instruct Him, and were filled with envy, jealousy, and madness because He would not accept their traditions and the manner of their teachings. Had they received the Messenger of heaven, what a vastly different history would now be recorded of them! They made their own history. The hearts of men are perverse.  {16MR 321.1}
[16MR 321.2]          The life of Christ is a life well worthy of study. And the strong, noble character of many who have followed His example are worthy of imitation. But of many of the race of mankind it may be said that their lives have been almost entirely useless. They have striven to have their own way, and carry out their own purposes. They have lived for self, and died without having laid up for them a jeweled crown.  {16MR 321.2}
[16MR 321.3]          How many, even in Switzerland, have stood directly in the way of the work God sent His servants to perform! How much greater work might have been accomplished with their cooperation than without it! Those who have hindered the work are responsible for it. You may inquire, How have we hindered? By your envy, your jealousy, your distrust, your unwillingness to take hold and move when God was saying, Go forward; but your standing still and doing so little when you should have been the most earnest, interested                                          -322-     workers with the servants whom God had sent you from America. Your American brethren have given liberally of their means to sustain the missionary work in Europe. God is grieved with you for your willingness to let them do this while you neglect to do what you might do were you consecrated to God and not wrapped up in your own selfish ideas and plans.  {16MR 321.3}
[16MR 322.1]          Many of you have hindered the work of God in your own country, as the Pharisees hindered the advancement of the kingdom of Christ when He was in their midst. I saw God looking upon you with displeasure. There might have been an army of Sabbathkeepers in your own country, had you received God's messengers as you should and given them your sympathy, your confidence, and your love. You have not deserved their labors in your midst. You know but little of the discouragements, sadness, and grief you have brought to the hearts of Brethren Andrews and Bourdeau, but especially to that of Brother Andrews, who was placed at a disadvantage because he did not understand your language.  {16MR 322.1}
[16MR 322.2]          You sent Brother Ertzenberger to us as a child of God, to be qualified to enter the missionary field in Europe. We took him in, a stranger, and spared no means to educate him in the English language. We all tried to be his instructors. We took no advantage of his ignorance of our language and our customs, but we labored in our work for God to qualify him for his work. He was humble, hopeful, and God was with him. He returned to you, and there were those who felt jealous that he was bringing too much of American knowledge with him. You thought him lifted up. His testimony was not accepted, and he became very much discouraged. Satan finally succeeded in overcoming him with temptations, and he was lost to the cause of God for years. But                                          -323-     the eye of infinite compassion was upon him; and God in mercy let him see the fearful position he was in, and said, "Return unto Me, and I will return unto thee, and heal all thy backslidings." And yet this dear brother should walk carefully and tremblingly before God. Just so long as he will cling to the arm of infinite power he will be shielded; but if he trusts to himself, he will surely fail.  {16MR 322.2}
[16MR 323.1]          Brother Ademar Vuilleumier came to us, and we tried to do our duty to him. But when he returned to Switzerland, and when Elder Andrews visited that country, he did not do by Elder A as we had done by him. He did not help Elder A as we had a right to expect he would. He created suspicion and jealousy of Elder A. He did not give the correct translation of his teachings, but made some of his remarks to be regarded with disfavor because they were made stronger than Elder A designed them to be.  {16MR 323.1}
[16MR 323.2]          If our brethren in Switzerland had received Elder Andrews and cared for him as the American brethren had cared for those who came to us from Switzerland, Elder A need not have suffered one-twentieth part as much as he has in that new field. You have failed greatly in your duty. You have disregarded the counsel and advice he has given you because he loved you and which I have been shown was for your interest to follow; but refusing to do this, you have been the losers.  {16MR 323.2}
[16MR 323.3]          Elder Andrews is a conscientious servant of Jesus Christ, and your neglect of him was neglect of the Master who sent him. You might have instructed Elder A in some things, might have aided him with your sympathy, your love and cooperation; yet God did not send these men to be taught of you in regard to the best manner of managing His work. You should have been                                          -324-     willing to be taught by Brother A, as one having a more mature experience in the cause of God. But instead of this, he was allowed, by you, to be placed in the most unpleasant positions, a stranger in a foreign country. You failed greatly in your efforts to make his mission a success. You did not faithfully do all in your power to cause him to feel as little as possible the marked change from the habits and customs of American to European life. God looks upon all these things. He calls upon you in Switzerland to be as self-denying, as teachable and self-sacrificing, to sustain the work among you as the people of America have been to get the truth before you.  {16MR 323.3}
[16MR 324.1]          Calls came to us from Europe for help. We sent you the ablest man in all our ranks; but you have not appreciated the sacrifice we made in thus doing. We needed Elder Andrews here. But we thought his great caution, his experience, his God-fearing dignity in the desk, would be just what you needed. We hoped you would accept his counsel, and aid him in every way possible while he was a stranger in a strange country. But he has had to make his way himself, while you have stood by to question and cast doubts in reference to his suggestions and plans, when you were unprepared to take hold yourselves and move the car of truth onward.  {16MR 324.1}
[16MR 324.2]          Your means have been supplied by the American brethren; but it is not for your best good to let it remain thus. Many of you can do much if you have a willing mind. You are losing much by standing back and casting hindrances in the way of God's servants. You manifest a spirit of independence to carry out your own way and follow your own plans. Many of us hold back the arm of infinite power when Jesus stands ready to help us in all our wants, because we are desirous of being helped in our own way rather than in                                          -325-     God's way. God chooses instruments to do His work of mercy in the salvation of man; but infinite mercy waits for the consent of human hearts, and the help of human hands, to make the work wholly beneficial to them. If those professing to be Christ's followers will not exercise the power and ability God has given them, the work which might have been accomplished will remain undone.  {16MR 324.2}
[16MR 325.1]          Jesus might have spoken the word at the grave of Lazarus, and the stone would have rolled away. He could bid the mountains depart and the hills remove, and they would obey His voice. But He stands before the sepulcher as one of the weakest of all that company, and says to His disciples, "Take ye away the stone." He does not propose to exhibit His divine power unless the feeblest, the most helpless and afflicted, shall show their interest and faith by their works, and thus prepare the way. As the mighty Lifegiver is about to perform His crowning miracle, the faith of the afflicted ones fails them. Objections are urged, and hindrances are presented. Their limited faith and short vision suggest impossibilities. They dread the revolting sight of decay which will meet their eyes. "Too late," says unbelief. "He has been dead four days, and the body is corrupted."  {16MR 325.1}
[16MR 325.2]          The stone is not moved by feeble humanity, but still bars the way to Christ's work. A word from Christ could cast it into the depths of the sea, but He waits for man, finite man, to prepare His way. Jesus reasons with them, and again requests them to submit their wills to His will, and let Him help them in His own way. "Take ye away the stone," is the requirement which Christ has made, and which must be obeyed before Christ shall work for them.                                            -326-  {16MR 325.2}
[16MR 326.1]          The stone is finally rolled away. Now man has done all that was required of him, and the way is prepared for Christ to do His work. The Prince of life calls for the kingdom of death to give up its captive and permit this new subject to return to life. He commands, the dead obeys His voice, and Lazarus awakes to full consciousness.  {16MR 326.1}
[16MR 326.2]          Now, again, human hands can do something. Jesus bids them loose the bands, unwind the sheet which is wrapped about Lazarus' body, and let the ransomed-from-the-grave go. This request is quickly obeyed, and Lazarus is one among them again, free from every taint of disease.  {16MR 326.2}
[16MR 326.3]          It is upon similar conditions that Jesus still performs His mighty works for man. There is much for human hands and human faith to do before those who are bound in death-like slumber, in carnal security, shall be reached by the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear shall live.  {16MR 326.3}
[16MR 326.4]          Jesus has stood in your midst in Switzerland, in assemblies and congregations, ready to speak the life-giving word and make the spiritually dead alive by His power; but He has been hindered in this work by your questionings and doubts. Your jealousies, your suggestions, have many of them been prompted by a disposition to have your own way and will. You entreated the Lord to send you help. He heard your cry and came to your relief by sending His servants. And He has been waiting for you to roll away the stone of unbelief from the door of your own hearts before He can do His work.  {16MR 326.4}
[16MR 326.5]          Christ's followers in Switzerland are far behind the providence of God. If they will only have faith in His providence and in His power to save, He will work mightily in their behalf. In many cities, as of old, Jesus is waiting to carry forward His work of dispelling darkness by the light of                                          -327-     truth. But His own professed followers stand in the way. Their unbelief and numerous plans and projects of their own hold back the arm of infinite power. If they would humble their own proud hearts, and submit their wills and ways to the will of God, they would see sinners converted and the believing strengthened by a more correct knowledge of the whole truth.  {16MR 326.5}
[16MR 327.1]          It is not money alone, nor talent, nor learning, nor opportunities, which the church needs so much as simple, earnest, confiding faith. Possessing this, and working in faith and love wherever they can find anything to do, the followers of Christ may fulfill His great commission to speed the gospel to all nations. Neither the arguments of most able men who are wise in this world, the opposition of the skeptic, the bold revilings of the scoffer, nor the cold, carnal security of the world, will be able to stand before the truth presented in meekness and in the power of Christ. The toil and sacrifice of a united, consecrated church, laboring in faith and love, will advance the truth and have a transforming power upon the world.  {16MR 327.1}
[16MR 327.2]          The cause in Switzerland might be self-sustaining today if all had moved wisely, making their temporal interest second to that of Christ's kingdom. He was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. He now appeals to your hearts, "What hast thou done for Me?" "I gave My life for thee, My precious blood I shed, That thou might'st ransomed be, And quickened from the dead. I gave, I gave My life for thee; What hast thou done for Me?"--Letter 2a, 1878.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. January 23, 1987. Entire Letter.  {16MR 327.2}
[16MR 328.1]       MR No. 1231 - The Vineyard         "Hear another parable," Christ said, "There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country: And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it. And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise. But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son. But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance" ［Matthew 21:33-38］.  {16MR 328.1}
[16MR 328.2]          The householder is designed to represent God: the husbandmen the Jewish nation, whom God had appointed to cultivate His vineyard, the world. The servants whom God sent to receive the fruits of the vineyard were the prophets and teachers through whom God had called Israel to render to Him His dues. Had God's professed people been heeding the word of the Lord, it would not have been necessary to remind them of this and call them to a sense of their responsibility. But they had become selfish and covetous, and they were systematically robbing Him of the means and facilities He had entrusted to them for the carrying on of His work.  {16MR 328.2}
[16MR 328.3]          God had wrought mighty wonders before Pharaoh to show that He was the ruler of the whole earth. He designed that His church should be composed of                                          -329-     the very ones who were bondmen in Egypt. By His mighty power He delivered them out of the hand of Pharaoh, and made them His church which was a representation of His church in all ages. Christ had purchased this people, they were His property. All that they held in trust was the Lord's. But they were misappropriating their talents, so that others could not be benefitted by the riches and grace of God.  {16MR 328.3}
[16MR 329.1]          God had taught them that His kingdom embraced the whole world. He was definite in all His arrangements, and positive in all His requirements. His kingdom was to succeed all other kingdoms, and cover the whole earth. It was never to be transferred to another ruler. This kingdom was God's peculiar treasure, and its principles were to test and purify His subjects, and fashion them after the image of God.  {16MR 329.1}
[16MR 329.2]          The lessons of Christ in the parables preceding the parable of the vineyard present the Jewish nation as unfaithful in their stewardship. Men of God's appointment had come to the vineyard for fruit, and had found none. Christ compared them to the barren fig tree, which while laden with luxuriant foliage and apparently flourishing, was destitute of fruit. Christ searched from the topmost branch to the lowest bough, but He found nothing but leaves, and He cursed the unfruitful tree. "Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward forever," He said.  {16MR 329.2}
[16MR 329.3]          Christ had declared, The kingdom of God is not meat nor drink. Form and ceremony do not constitute the kingdom of God. Ceremonies become multitudinous and extravagant as the vital principles of the kingdom of God are lost. But it is not form and ceremony that Christ requires. He hungers to receive from His vineyard fruit in holiness and unselfishness, deeds of goodness, mercy, and truth.                                          -330-  {16MR 329.3}
[16MR 330.1]          Gorgeous apparel, fine singing, and instrumental music in the church do not call forth the songs of the angel choir. In the sight of God these things are like the branches of the unfruitful fig tree which bore nothing but pretentious leaves. Christ looks for fruit, for principles of goodness and sympathy and love. These are the principles of heaven, and when they are revealed in the lives of human beings, we may know that Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. A congregation may be the poorest in the land, without music or outward show, but if it possesses these principles, the members can sing, for the joy of Christ is in their souls, and this they can offer as a sweet oblation to God.  {16MR 330.1}
[16MR 330.2]          "If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love," Christ says. God looks for the fruit of obedience. "Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples. As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love. If ye keep my commandments ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and bide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you" ［John 15:8-12］. Who among us realize these things, and cultivate love one for another?  {16MR 330.2}
[16MR 330.3]          A fashionable religion that consists of ceremony and pretention is not acceptable to God; for the love of God is not there. A church with such a religion can call forth no response from the heavenly angels; for their hearts are not receiving the rich currents of love which are flowing from heaven to earth, and which make glad the hearts of God's people. When the love of Christ in the soul flows forth in pure, rich currents to those who                                           -331-     need tenderness and kindness, it is like a draught from the river of God which flows from beneath His throne to refresh the parched and thirsty soul.  {16MR 330.3}
[16MR 331.1]         These are the fruits that Christ would have from His vineyards, and from His saints who assemble to worship Him from year to year. Obedience to God's commandments makes our souls precious in His sight. The church is very dear to the heart of God. He would have His people sing with the heart and with the understanding also: "Thou hast brought a vine out of Egypt: thou hast cast out the heathen, and planted it." "Now will I sing to my wellbeloved a song of my beloved touching his vineyard. My wellbeloved hath a vineyard in a very fruitful hill: And he fenced it, and gathered out the stones thereof, and planted it with the choicest vine, and built a tower in the midst of it, and also made a winepress therein. . . . The vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel" ［Psalms 80:8; Isaiahs 5:1, 2, 7］.  {16MR 331.1}
[16MR 331.2]         Let songs pour forth from lips that the live coal from off the altar has touched. Lift up your voices in the words of the 121st, 125th, and 126th psalms. The angelic host will join with those who sing with the spirit and with the understanding also.--Ms 123, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. January 23, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {16MR 331.2}
[16MR 332.1]       MR No. 1232 - Health Teachings Not To Replace The Third Angel's Message       (Written May 27, 1896, From Cooranbong, N.S.W., to Dr. J. H. Kellogg.)  {16MR 332.1}
[16MR 332.2]          I have been much perplexed in regard to some matters that have been presented before me concerning the condition of things in some of our institutions. I sent you a copy of letters sent to Elder Olsen. I have been shown that you also are in danger of making serious mistakes. You feel a deep interest in the circulation of the health publications, and this is right; but that special branch is not to be made all-absorbing. The health reform is as closely related to the third angel's message as the arm to the body; but the arm cannot take the place of the body. The proclamation of the third angel's message, the commandments of God, and the testimony of Jesus, is the burden of our work. The message is to be proclaimed with a loud cry and is to go to the whole world. The presentation of health principles must be united with this message, but must not be independent of it or in any way take the place of it.  {16MR 332.2}
[16MR 332.3]          I was shown that the strong presentation of the health line of work is causing it to absorb more attention than should be given to any one branch. There must be a well-balanced, symmetrical development of the work in all its parts. You, my brother, should not press workers to handle the health books as the Bible Readings was handled. Matters are now taking that phase. The glowing impressions given to the canvassers in regard to this one branch result in excluding from the field other works that must come before the                                          -333-     people. You know I would have the health books occupy their proper place, but they are only one of many lines in the great work to be done.  {16MR 332.3}
[16MR 333.1]          Canvassers should not be taught that one book or one class of books is to occupy the field to the neglect of all others. Among the workers are always some who can be swayed in almost any direction. Those who have charge of the canvassing work should be men of well-balanced minds, who can discern the relation of each part of the work to the great whole. Let them give due attention to the circulation of health books, but not make this line so prominent as to draw men away from other lines of vital interest. It is my prayer that you may not move unadvisedly in this matter and exercise an influence that shall lead men to dishonor God by neglecting the very things essential to come before the people at this time. My brother, you are in danger of self-exaltation; I caution you to walk humbly with God. Seek wisdom from Him, that you may be guided in safe paths.  {16MR 333.1}
[16MR 333.2]          There is need of a much closer study of the Word of God. Especially should Daniel and the Revelation have attention as never before in the history of our work. We may have less to say in some lines, in regard to the Roman power and the papacy, but we should call attention to what the prophets and the apostles have written under the inspiration of the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit has so shaped matters, both in the giving of the prophecy, and in the events portrayed, as to teach that the human agent is to be kept out of sight, hid in Christ, and the Lord God of heaven and His law are to be exalted.  {16MR 333.2}
[16MR 333.3]          Read the book of Daniel. Call up, point by point, the history of the kingdoms there represented. Behold statesmen, councils, powerful armies,                                          -334-     and see how God wrought to abase the pride of men, and lay human glory in the dust. God alone is represented as great. In the vision of the prophet He is seen casting down one mighty ruler and setting up another. He is revealed as the monarch of the universe, about to set up His everlasting kingdom--the Ancient of days, the living God, the Source of all wisdom, the Ruler of the present, the Revealer of the future. Read and understand how poor, how frail, how short-lived, how erring, how guilty, is man in lifting up his soul unto vanity.  {16MR 333.3}
[16MR 334.1]          The Holy Spirit through Isaiah points us to God, the living God, as the chief object of attention--to God as revealed in Christ. "Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" ［Isaiah 9:6］.  {16MR 334.1}
[16MR 334.2]          The light that Daniel received direct from God was given especially for these last days. The visions he saw by the banks of the Ulai and the Hiddekel, the great rivers of Shinar, are now in process of fulfillment, and all the events foretold will soon have come to pass.  {16MR 334.2}
[16MR 334.3]          Consider the circumstances of the Jewish nation when the prophecies of Daniel were given. The Israelites were in captivity, their temple had been destroyed, their temple service suspended. Their religion had centered in the ceremonies of the sacrificial system. They had made the outward forms all-important, while they had lost the spirit of true worship. Their services were corrupted with the traditions and practices of heathenism, and in the performance of the sacrificial rites they did not look beyond the shadow to the substance. They did not discern Christ, the true offering for the                                          -335-     sins of men. The Lord wrought to bring the people into captivity, and to suspend the services in the temple, in order that the outward ceremonies might not become the sum total of their religion. Their principles and practices must be purged from heathenism. The ritual service ceased in order that heart service might be revived. The outward glory was removed that the spiritual might be revealed.  {16MR 334.3}
[16MR 335.1]          In the land of their captivity, as the people turned unto the Lord with repentance, He manifested Himself unto them. They lacked the outward representation of His presence; but the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shone into their minds and hearts. When they called unto God in their humiliation and distress, visions were given to His prophets which unfolded the events of the future--the overthrow of the oppressors of God's people, the coming of the Redeemer, and the establishment of the everlasting kingdom.  {16MR 335.1}
[16MR 335.2]          In giving the light to His people, God did not work exclusively through any one class of men. Daniel was a prince of Judah. Isaiah also was of the royal tribe. David was a shepherd boy, Amos a herdsman, Zechariah a captive from Babylon, Elisha a tiller of the soil. The Lord raised up as representative men the prophets and princes, the noble and the lowly, and by inspiration taught them truths to be given to His people.  {16MR 335.2}
[16MR 335.3]          The revealed will of God must stand forth distinct as a lamp that burneth. Those who, like yourself, are in responsible positions, we thank God can be a power for good if they are not perverted by prosperity. But in order that our work may be a success, we must cooperate with the heavenly messenger that is to lighten the whole earth with his glory. The Lord calls                                          -336-     upon you, as upon Daniel, to enlist all your God-given powers in revealing Him to the world. The interest and effort of physicians are to be given, not to the health question alone, but to making known the truths for these last times, truths that are deciding the destiny of souls.  {16MR 335.3}
[16MR 336.1]          Daniel and his three companions had a special work to do. Although greatly honored in this work, they did not become in any way exalted. They were scholars, being skilled in secular as well as religious knowledge, but they had studied science without being corrupted. They were well-balanced because they had yielded themselves to the control of the Holy Spirit. These youth gave to God all the glory of their secular, scientific, and religious endowments. Their learning did not come by chance; they obtained knowledge by the faithful use of their powers, and God gave them skill and understanding.  {16MR 336.1}
[16MR 336.2]          True science and Bible religion are in perfect harmony. Let the students in our schools learn all they possibly can. But, as a rule, let them be educated in our own institutions. Be careful how you advise them to go to other schools, where error is taught, in order to complete their education. Do not give them the impression that greater educational advantages are to be obtained by mingling with those who do not seek wisdom from God. The great men of Babylon were willing to be benefited by the instruction that God gave through Daniel, to help the king out of his difficulty by the interpretation of his dream. But they were anxious to mix in their heathen religion with that of the Hebrews. Had Daniel and his fellows consented to such a compromise, they would, in the view of the Babylonians, have been complete as statesmen, fit to be entrusted with the affairs of the kingdom.                                          -337-     But the four Hebrews entered into no such arrangement. They were true to God, and God upheld them and honored them. The lesson is for us. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you."--Letter 57, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. January 23, 1987. Entire Letter.  {16MR 336.2}
[16MR 338.1]       MR No. 1233 - Earnest Labor to be Bestowed on the Erring      (Written April 21, 1887, from Basel, Switzerland, to Elder G. I. Butler.)            There is not the mingling of the elements of character that bring justice and mercy and the love of God into beautiful harmony. There is altogether too much talking, too many strong words and strong feelings that the Lord has nothing to do with, and these strong feelings influence our good brethren. 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. 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.  {16MR 338.1}
[16MR 338.2]          When I know that there are those who have fallen into great sin, but we have labored with and for them, and God has afterward accepted their labors, when these have pleaded for me to let them go and to not 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. ［Either］ this course                                          -339-     toward them was wrong, or the course that is now pursued is not that which Jesus would pursue under similar circumstances.  {16MR 338.2}
[16MR 339.1]          If our hearts were more fully imbued with the Spirit of God, we should have His melting love, and should work with spiritual power to restore the erring and not leave them under Satan's control. We need good, heart religion and divine wisdom to deal with human minds, that we shall not only reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering 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.  {16MR 339.1}
[16MR 339.2]          I am more pained than I can express to see so little aptitude and skill, ［so little］ self-denial and self-sacrifice, to save souls that are ensnared by Satan. I see such a cold Phariseeism cherished, 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 individually in this way? Is this spirit of coldness and lack of sympathy to grow among us? If so, my brethren must excuse me; I cannot labor with them. I will not be a party in this kind of management.  {16MR 339.2}
[16MR 339.3]          I call to mind the shepherd hunting the lost sheep, and ［the story of］ the prodigal son. I want those parables to have their influence upon my heart and 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 fallen under temptation, and my heart becomes sick. I see the iron in hearts, and think we should pray for hearts of flesh. Oh, how I long for Jesus to come! How I long for Him to set things in order! Come, Lord Jesus, and come quickly, is my prayer.--Letter 16a, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {16MR 339.3}
[16MR 340.1]       MR No. 1234 - An Appeal to Evangelize the Iowa Conference         (Written in 1902 at "Elmshaven," St. Helena, California. It is addressed "To the Iowa Conference: My dear brethren and sisters.")  {16MR 340.1}
[16MR 340.2]          ［1 Peter 4:7-11, quoted.］        The churches in Iowa are in need of far greater spiritual life. When we separate from God, we assert our own independence, and raise the standard of revolt. Men desire to govern their fellow men, to gain jurisdiction over them. But it is impossible for man to exercise authority over his fellow men without making himself liable to collide with their interests, which should be carefully guarded. Every man is to remember that every other man has an identity, which must not be submerged in any human being.  {16MR 340.2}
[16MR 340.3]          Supreme love for God is the great principle that keeps men close to one another in unselfish fellowship. The love of Christ leads man to see the good there is in his fellow beings. But he who is absorbed in correcting his neighbor neglects to give attention to his own defects, and loses God out of his reckoning. He does not appreciate God enough to seek to be like Him, and he loses the power to bring forth the fruits of righteousness. He watches for the defects in his brother, forgetting that he is the purchase of the blood of Christ.  {16MR 340.3}
[16MR 340.4]         For three years the disciples had before them the wonderful example of Christ. Day by day they walked and talked with Him, hearing His words of cheer to the weary and heavy laden, and seeing the manifestations of His power in behalf of the sick and afflicted. When the time came for Him to leave them, He gave them power to work as He had worked. He bestowed on                                          -341-     them His grace, saying, "Freely ye have received, freely give." They were to go forth into the world to shed abroad the light of His gospel of love and healing. The work He had done they were to do.  {16MR 340.4}
[16MR 341.1]          And this is the work that we also are to do in the world. In sympathy and compassion we are to minister to those in need of help, seeking with unselfish earnestness to lighten the woe of suffering humanity. As we engage in this work, we shall be greatly blessed. And by it souls will be won to the Redeemer; for its influence is irresistible.  {16MR 341.1}
[16MR 341.2]          The practical carrying out of the Saviour's commission demonstrates the power of the gospel. This work calls for laborious effort, but it pays, for by it perishing souls are saved. Through its influence men and women of talent are to be brought to the cross of Christ.  {16MR 341.2}
[16MR 341.3]          Man has a body as well as a soul to save. Both are to be restored to health by God's simple but efficacious methods, which appeal to men and women of intelligence. As the health of the body is restored, the powers of the mind are put forth to grasp the great truths of the gospel. And through a belief in the truth, souls are awakened to their need of a preparation for life's duties.  {16MR 341.3}
[16MR 341.4]          The denominational churches in our land are doing something in the line of Christian help work. Some are working actively, walking in all the light they have. They would do much more if they understood the truth. And many of those who know the truth, who claim to believe that the last message of mercy is being given to the world, are fast asleep. Many, like the sluggard, are folding their hands in inactivity.                                          -342-  {16MR 341.4}
[16MR 342.1]          The Lord has a work for everyone to do. There are those who suppose that they can be saved by merely assenting to the truth. But this cannot be. True conversion acts like leaven, permeating every part of the being, filling man with a desire to serve Christ. Received into the heart, the truth transforms the entire being, bringing it into conformity with the Spirit of Christ. There is a development of all the powers, for the heart is changed.  {16MR 342.1}
[16MR 342.2]          Man can increase in knowledge without experiencing a change of heart, but this does not bring salvation. Paul declares, "Though I . . . understand all mysteries, and all knowledge,  . . . and have not charity, I am nothing," "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal." It is not position or profession that makes a man of value in God's sight; it is being good and doing good.  {16MR 342.2}
[16MR 342.3]          Christ says, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." He who has only an emotional religion is controlled by "another spirit," not the Spirit of Christ. Flighty and sentimental, he is a burden to the church. At times his imagination soars high, but it goes down correspondingly when the cause of excitement is removed.  {16MR 342.3}
[16MR 342.4]          By the death of His only begotten Son, God has made it possible for man to reach the high ideal set before him. We can do God no greater dishonor than to remain in indolence and indifference, caring not to save the souls perishing in sin.  {16MR 342.4}
[16MR 342.5]          Is Christ your personal Saviour? Do you depend on Him for your acceptance with the Father? He says, "Let him take hold of My strength, that he                                          -343-     may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me." There is power in Christ to enable us to gain the victory over the enemy.  {16MR 342.5}
[16MR 343.1]          I am carrying a burden for the Iowa Conference. The Lord has instructed me that as a conference you are living far beneath your privileges. Although you have been greatly blessed with a knowledge of the truth, many of you have not realized your duty to give this advanced light to others. In the Judgment, God will call you to account for the way in which you have used the light given you.  {16MR 343.1}
[16MR 343.2]          In the Iowa Conference there are many precious souls who would make good workers. These need to be awakened to the necessity of taking hold of the Lord's work and doing something for Him. They should be educated and trained, that they may go forth to labor for others. Let them gain an experimental knowledge in seeking to save those who are perishing around them.  {16MR 343.2}
[16MR 343.3]          God has appointed to every man his work. While so many men and women in the towns and cities round about us are perishing for lack of knowledge, how can God's people sleep on in indifference? If those who know the truth realized fully the fearful peril of their fellow men, they would be aroused to work for the Master. Going out into new fields they would, by the power of a godly example, lead others to unite with them.  {16MR 343.3}
[16MR 343.4]          Let married men and women who know the truth go forth to the neglected fields to enlighten others. Follow the example of those who have done pioneer work in new fields. Wisely work in places where you can best labor. Learn the principles of health reform, in order that you may be able to teach them to others. By reading and studying the various books and                                          -344-     periodicals on the subject of health, learn to give treatment to the sick, and thus to do better work for the Master. Many who now rest in their graves would today be alive had they been careful to improve precious moments in seeking to obtain a knowledge of the light upon health reform that God has given for their benefit. Wilfully ignorant of the laws of their being, they have died for lack of knowledge.  {16MR 343.4}
[16MR 344.1]          Let every member of the churches in Iowa carefully study the instruction given in the fifty-eight chapter of Isaiah and in the third and fourth chapters of Malachi. Will my brethren consider these scriptures? In the fifty-eighth of Isaiah there is light for those who rejoice in the hope of the soon-coming morning. The Lord desires to send us the reviving, healing beams of His sunshine. "The fashion of this world passeth away," but the fashion of the world to come will endure forever. With that infinite bliss will the righteous be rewarded! What boundless joy will be theirs!  {16MR 344.1}
[16MR 344.2]          Christ has gone to prepare mansions for those who are faithful. To the immortal inheritance those who love God and keep His commandments have a clear title--a title that will never be questioned. Those who by faith take God at His word have an everlasting life-insurance policy. Those who now by faith enter the kingdom of God and hold fast their profession of faith, will possess the kingdom forever and ever.  {16MR 344.2}
[16MR 344.3]          To the brethren and sisters of Iowa, those who claim to believe in Jesus as a personal Saviour, I would say: Remember that you are not your own; you are "bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." I beseech you to consider your individual responsibility. In view of all that you are to receive and enjoy in the world to                                          -345-     come, why, oh why, do you not rise above the sordid influences of this world, putting away all earthliness?  {16MR 344.3}
[16MR 345.1]          ［1 John 2:1-7, quoted.］        The church is the bride, the Lamb's wife. She should keep herself pure, sanctified, holy. Never should she indulge in any foolishness, for she is the bride of a King. Yet she does not realize her exalted position. If she understood this, she would be all-glorious within.  {16MR 345.1}
[16MR 345.2]          The world does not acknowledge that, at an infinite cost, Christ has purchased the human race. They do not acknowledge that by creation and by redemption He holds a just claim to every human being. But as the Redeemer of the fallen race, He has been given the deed of possession, which entitles Him to claim them as His property. "He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. 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 1:10-12］.  {16MR 345.2}
[16MR 345.3]          The Lord is ready to do a great work for every church in the Iowa Conference. In order that the world may be left without excuse, He desires His representatives properly to bear witness of Him. Will those who have named the name of Christ be as clay in the hands of the potter? Will they submit to be molded and fashioned into vessels unto honor? Thus they may be qualified to stand in their lot and in their place. By their unselfish lives they may give to the world an illustration of practical Christianity.  {16MR 345.3}
[16MR 345.4]          The churches in this conference have a work to do. Plans should be made to advance the Lord's cause. The Master is calling for men who will do His                                          -346-     work with humility of heart. He works through those who have a contrite spirit. The clear light of truth should shine forth from the churches. Every church should be as a city set upon a hill, the light of which cannot be hid.  {16MR 345.4}
[16MR 346.1]          The psalmist says, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." In these days of test and trial, we should take the Bible as our counselor and our guide, that we may make straight paths for our feet. The beautiful, glorious light of heaven is shining from the precepts of the law, clearly lighting up the pathway leading to the gates of the New Jerusalem. Those who walk in this light will never go astray.  {16MR 346.1}
[16MR 346.2]          The Lord's people should often come together to engage in earnest supplication for divine blessing, that they may better understand where and how to work. Let no selfishness or jealousy be manifested. Let the laborers knit their souls with Christ and with their brethren. Let them unitedly use their powers in doing genuine advance work, bearing to others the light of present truth.  {16MR 346.2}
[16MR 346.3]          In Iowa there are many places to be worked. As a general rule, the conference laborers should go out from the churches into new fields, using their God-given ability to a purpose in seeking and saving the lost.  {16MR 346.3}
[16MR 346.4]                          An Appeal for the Barren Fields          My brethren and sisters, I wish to present before you the necessities of the destitute fields in your sight. In His great mercy the Lord has furnished these fields with laborers who have precious talents. Means is now needed to carry forward the work. I present this matter before the churches in Iowa, praying that the Lord may impress hearts with the needs of His                                         -347-     work, that gifts for these barren fields may flow into His treasury. Our neglect of the fields ripe for the harvest is our condemnation.  {16MR 346.4}
[16MR 347.1]          God is calling upon His people to give to Him of the means that He has entrusted to them, in order that institutions both small and large may be established to glorify His name. By giving of their substance to sustain His work, God's people show in a practical manner that they love Him supremely and their neighbor as themselves.  {16MR 347.1}
[16MR 347.2]          I have a message to bear in regard to the Southern field. We shall have to work this field. Its present condition is a continual rebuke to all who claim to be followers of Christ. The outlook is not pleasant. In some sections of this field the nominal churches have done a good work in gospel ministry and by establishing schools for the people. But as a whole, the field has scarcely been touched. If the words of the gospel commission had been studied and obeyed by our people, the South would have received its proportionate share of ministry. If those who have received light had walked in the light given them, they would have realized that they should cultivate this long-neglected vineyard.  {16MR 347.2}
[16MR 347.3]          Many of the Southern cities have never been worked. Look at the destitution of this field. Consider the ignorance, the poverty, the misery, the distress of many of the people. What do they know in regard to the Bible? They are not acquainted with the Lord Jesus Christ. And yet this field lies at your door! How selfish and inattentive you have been to your neighbors! You have heartlessly passed them by, doing little to relieve their suffering. The condition of this field is a condemnation of our professed Christianity.                                          -348-  {16MR 347.3}
[16MR 348.1]          It is too late now to cling to worldly treasures. Soon, unnecessary houses and lands will be of no benefit to anyone, for the curse of God will rest more and more heavily upon the earth. The call comes, "Sell that ye have, and give alms." This message should be faithfully borne--urged home to the hearts of the people--that God's own property may be returned to Him in offerings to advance His work in the world.  {16MR 348.1}
[16MR 348.2]          God calls for men who will educate. During the time that has passed into eternity many should have been in the South, laboring together with God by doing personal work and by giving of their means to sustain themselves and other workers in that field.  {16MR 348.2}
[16MR 348.3]          My dear brethren and sisters in Iowa, the Lord is calling upon you to come to your senses. Awake to a realization of your responsibilities. God has given to every man his work. You have a most earnest work to do. You may live lives of usefulness. Learn all that you can, and then be a blessing to others by imparting a knowledge of truth. Let every one do according to his several ability, willingly sharing in the bearing of burdens.  {16MR 348.3}
[16MR 348.4]          Let us in the name of the Lord press perseveringly forward in the race for eternal life. We have a great work to do in enlightening our own souls and in living up to a higher standard. Let us place a proper estimate on the preciousness of a knowledge of the truth. Then we shall have a clearer understanding in regard to God's goodness to us and our obligations to others. While seeking to save the lost, let us keep our minds constantly uplifted in prayer for divine guidance. We are not to look to men, but are to behold Jesus. Let us not lose our spirituality. Christ desires His people to be greatly revived by the Holy Spirit.                                          -349-  {16MR 348.4}
[16MR 349.1]          Although we are now passing through the night of tribulation, we need not be discouraged by the darkness that surrounds us. The Lord desires us to exercise faith, with spiritual vision looking beyond the gloom to the scenes of the morning so soon to dawn. In faith and hope we may confidently say, The morning cometh, when there will be no more night. Soon we shall see the dawn of the eternal day in all its glorious beauty and splendor.-- Letter 136, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April, 1987. Entire Letter.  {16MR 349.1}
[17MR 0.1]         17MR - Manuscript Releases Volume Seventeen ［Nos. 1236-1300］ (1990)      A WORD OF EXPLANATION         WHEN ELLEN WHITE DIED IN 1915, SHE LEFT HER MANUSCRIPTS AND LETTERS IN THE CUSTODY OF A SMALL GROUP OF MINISTERS AND ADMINISTRATORS IN THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH WHOM SHE HAD APPOINTED TO SERVE AS TRUSTEES OF HER ESTATE. AS THE YEARS PASSED, THESE TRUSTEES AND THEIR SUCCESSORS BECAME INCREASINGLY AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL USEFULNESS TO THE CHURCH OF THIS GOLD MINE OF UNPUBLISHED MATERIALS. PROCEDURES WERE DEVELOPED WHEREBY CHURCH ENTITIES, OR EVEN INDIVIDUALS, COULD REQUEST THE "RELEASE" OF SPECIFIED EXCERPTS FROM ELLEN WHITE'S WRITINGS FOR USE IN BOOKS, ARTICLES, CLASS LECTURES, OR SERMONS. FOR DETAILS OF THE RELEASE PROCESS THE READER IS REFERRED TO THE PREFACE TO MANUSCRIPT RELEASES, VOL. 1.       AS IN THE EARLIER VOLUMES, MATERIALS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ELSEWHERE IN PUBLISHED FORM HAVE NOT BEEN INCLUDED IN THE PRESENT VOLUME. IN A FEW CASES MATERIALS UNDER CONSIDERATION AND ASSIGNED A RELEASE NUMBER WERE NOT  PROCESSED. AND THE NUMBER WAS NOT REASSIGNED. UNTIL 1983, ONLY THE EXCERPTS REQUESTED FOR PUBLIC USE WERE "RELEASED." STARTING WITH MANUSCRIPT RELEASE NO. 970, THE WHITE ESTATE BEGAN "RELEASING" ENTIRE LETTERS OR MANUSCRIPTS, SO FAR AS POSSIBLE, EVEN IF ONLY PARTICULAR PARAGRAPHS WERE REQUESTED.       COPY FOR THIS VOLUME HAS BEEN SENT TO THE PUBLISHER CAMERA-READY, WHICH MEANS THAT ANY TYPOGRAPHICAL MISTAKES OR OTHER INACCURACIES WHICH MAY APPEAR ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WHITE ESTATE, NOT THE PUBLISHER.       WE TAKE PLEASURE IN MAKING THESE MATERIALS AVAILABLE IN THIS FORM, AND TRUST THAT THE COUNSELS, WARNINGS, AND PRINCIPLES PUT FORTH BY THE AUTHOR WILL BRING A BLESSING TO EVERY READER.                                    THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE                                    WASHINGTON, D.C.  {17MR 0.1}
[17MR 0.2]     Table of Contents      A Word of Explanation    Manuscript Release                                                  Page            1236      Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by                    John Bell - Part I................................ 1            1237      Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by                    John Bell - Part II .............................. 6            1238      Comments on the Incarnation of Christ ............ 24            1239      True "Higher Education"; Appeal to Work the                    Cities; Wives to Receive Remuneration for Their                    Gospel Work ...................................... 33            1240      Week of Prayer in San Francisco; Visit to an SDA                    Vegetarian Restaurant ............................ 38            1241      Week of Prayer in San Francisco; Experienced                    Ministers to Teach Younger Workers; The Importance                    of Character...................................... 47            1242      Talented Speakers Needed for Camp Meetings;                    Business Men to Handle Financial Matters ......... 50            1243      Thoughts on Creation and Character Development;                    Counsel to Seek and Follow God's Guidance ........ 57            1244      A Night of Troubled Sleep; Talented People To Be                    Educated for Missionary Work ..................... 61            1245      The Southern Work; Ellen White Disturbed by                    Dissension in Councils and Camp Meetings; Study                    the Word, and Seek Christ ........................            1246      E. G. White Materials Used in a Paper Presented by                    R. W. Olson at the Centennial Commemoration of                    Ellen White's Visit to Europe, Published in                    Ellen G. White and Europe. On file at the                    White Estate.            1247      E. G. White Materials Used in a Paper Presented by                    G. Poublan at the Centennial Commemoration of                    Ellen White's Visit to Europe, Published in                    Ellen G. White and Europe. On File at the                    White Estate.            1248      E. G. White Material Cited in "The Humor of Ellen                    White," by Glen Baker, published in The                    Adventist Review, April 30, 1987.            1249      Counsel on Soul Winning; The Need to Crucify Self;                    The Importance of Character Development .......... 67            1250      Lessons From Sightseeing in Nimes; The Wilderness                    Temptations of Christ; Faithful Sabbathkeeping                    Enjoined ......................................... 75            1251      Complete Victory Possible Through Faith in Christ       83            1252      Safety in Counseling Together .................... 87            1253      William Foy Lectures in Beethoven Hall............ 95            1254      Included in Manuscript Releases 1265 and 1266.            1255      Church Leaders to Set an Example of                    Christlikeness.................................... 98            1256      Reproof for False Statements Regarding Promotion                    of EGW Books; Unfair Treatment of Publishing House                    Workers; God's Law To Be Obeyed................... 107            1257      Funds Needed to Establish Medical Institutions in                    Australia; Camp Meetings Planned.................. 119            1258      The Need for Church and Sanitarium Buildings...... 125            1259      Earnest Effort Needed in the Cooranbong, Maitland,                    Newcastle Area.................................... 129            1260      Evangelistic Successes in Newcastle and Brisbane;                    Cooranbong's Need for a Hospital.................. 133            1261      High Standard of Purity and Holiness to                    Characterize Gospel Ministers..................... 140            1262      Counsel Regarding a Second Marriage .............. 146            1263      Testimony Regarding the Monterey, Michigan, Church     153            1264      A Message to the Churches ........................ 162            1265      Minds of Committee Members To Be Worked by the                    Holy Spirit; The Marks of Christlikeness ......... 166            1266      Church Leaders To Be Humble and Spirit-Filled;                    Board Members Not to Serve Indefinitely .......... 170            1267      Evil Counsels Followed at the Review and Herald                    and the General Conference........................ 177            1268      Wrong Principles Followed in Battle Creek; Moral                    Integrity To Be Maintained by Each Individual..... 181            1269      Every Person Has God-Given Talents Which Should                    Bear Fruit; Church leaders Not to Exercise                    Absolute Control Over Others ..................... 196            1270      The Work in England; Leaders to Walk With Fear and                    Trembling Before God, Leading People to the Cross                    and The True Shepherd ............................ 208            1271      Concern Over the Leadership in Battle Creek; Plans                    for a Medical Institution in Cooranbong; Leaders                    To Be Connected With God.......................... 216            1272      Bible Principles to Govern SDA Institutions;                    Conscience Accountable to God Alone; Unconverted                    Men Controlling Councils and Boards .............. 221            1273      Satanic Publications in SDA Publishing Houses;                    Joshua, the High Priest, Being Accused............ 236            1274      God Calls Upon Workers To Be Producers, Not                    Consumers; Medical Missionary Work To Be Pursued;                    Study the Word ................................... 244            1275      Christ Understands Humanity's Need for Food;                    Health Food Business Has Potential for Helping                    God's Cause....................................... 252            1276      Edson White and W. O. Palmer Not to Act                    Independently of the Conference in Establishing a                    Health Food Business ............................. 257            1277      The Health Food Work in Sydney; Improvement in the                    Spiritual Climate of the St. Helena Sanitarium.... 259            1278      Workers To Be Transformed by God and Reveal                    Christlike Tenderness............................. 263            1279      Conversations Between Ellen White, A. G. Daniells,                    and Other Church Leaders Regarding the Work in                    Nashville......................................... 266            1280      The Work in Nashville, Including the Health Food                    Business; Spiritual Interests To Be Paramount..... 276            1281      Concern for the Wahroonga Sanitarium; The Purpose                    of Our Institutions; Leaders Should Be Chosen for                    Their Spirituality................................ 280            1282      An Appeal for a Leader to Repent and Reform ...... 284            1283      SDA's Not to Erect Mammoth Institutions; If                    Economy is Practiced, Needs of World Can Be Met;                    Leaders to Have Upright Characters................ 286            1284      Unity in God's Work; Personal Counsel on Diet and                    On Becoming Involved in the Health Food Work ..... 289            1285      The Role of Christ's Object Lessons; Concern Over                    Health Food Companies and Restaurants; Soul                    Winning To Be Emphasized.......................... 294            1286      W. O. Palmer and the Food Business in the South .. 298            1287      Workers in Food Business to Emphasize Spiritual                    Values and Witnessing............................. 300            1288      Consultation Regarding the Work of G. C. Tenney;                    Prayer Offered for G. A. Anderson and Others ..... 301            1289      Non-Essential Subjects To Be Avoided; Soul Winners                    to Educate and Use All Talents; Baptismal                    Candidates To Be Fully Instructed................. 303            1290      God's Counsel To Be Sought Before Enlarging                    Buildings; Means Needed for Opening New Fields.... 308            1291      Counsel Not to Overwork; Present Short Messages;                    Be Thoroughly Converted........................... 310            1292      The Importance of Philippians 2 and 3; God's Law                    To Be Proclaimed and Obeyed ...................... 316            1293      A Report on Soul Winning Efforts, Office Matters,                    and Household and Family Items.................... 323            1294      Labors in Switzerland; Converts Must Be Willing To                    Carry the Cross; Plans and Techniques for                    Evangelism........................................ 329            1295      The Divine and Human Nature of Christ ............ 336            1296      The Evil of Gossiping About Fellow Church Members;                    The Importance of Pressing Together and                    Maintaining Unity ................................ 341            1297      The Need to Review Sacred History; The Importance                    of the Sabbath; The Nearness of the End........... 344            1298      E. G. White Materials Cited in "Dietary Advice and                    Practice of Adventist in the Nineteenth Century,"                    by Ronald Graybill. Available from the General                    Conference Health and Temperance Department.            1299      Locating Sanitariums Away From the Cities;                    Health-Care Workers To Be Deeply Spiritual........ 348            1300      The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, available                    at White Estate or Adventist Book Centers.  {17MR 0.2}
[17MR 1.1]       MR No. 1236 - Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by John Bell--Part I                    (Written November 8, 1896, at Cooranbong, N.S.W.)          I have not been able to sleep since half past one o'clock. I was bearing to Brother John Bell a message which the Lord had given me for him. The peculiar views he holds are a mixture of truth and error. If he had passed through the experience of God's people as He has led them for the last forty years, he would be better prepared to make the correct application of Scripture.  {17MR 1.1}
[17MR 1.2]          The great waymarks of truth, showing us our bearings in prophetic history, are to be carefully guarded, lest they be torn down and replaced with theories that would bring confusion rather than genuine light. I have been cited to the very erroneous theories that have been presented over and over again. Those who advocated these theories presented Scripture quotations, but they misapplied and misinterpreted them. The theories supposed to be correct were incorrect, and yet many thought them the very theories to be brought before the people. The prophecies of Daniel and John are to be diligently studied.  {17MR 1.2}
[17MR 1.3]         There are those now living who in studying the prophecies of Daniel and John, received great light from God as they passed over the ground where special prophecies were in process of fulfillment in their order. They bore the message of time to the people. The truth shone out clearly as the sun at noonday. Historical events, showing the direct fulfillment of prophecy, were set before the people, and the prophecy was seen to be a figurative delineation of events leading down to the close of this earth's history. The scenes connected with the working of the man of sin are the last features revealed in this earth's                                            -2-     history. The people now have a special message to give to the world, the third angel's message. Those who, in their experience, have passed over the ground and acted a part in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angel's messages, are not so liable to be led into false paths as are those who have not had an experimental knowledge of the people of God.  {17MR 1.3}
[17MR 2.1]          God's people are to warn the world to prepare for the second appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is coming with power and great glory, when the cry of peace and safety is being sounded from every part of the Christian world, and the sleeping church and the world will be asking in scorn, "Where is the promise of His coming? . . . All things continue as they were from the beginning."  {17MR 2.1}
[17MR 2.2]          Christ was taken up into heaven in a cloud composed of living angels. The angels declared to the men of Galilee, "Why stand ye gazing up into heaven? 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." This is the great event to be contemplated and talked of. The declaration of the angels was that He should come in the same manner as He went up into heaven.  {17MR 2.2}
[17MR 2.3]          And the second appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is to be kept fresh before the minds of the people. Let all understand this. Jesus is coming again. The same Jesus that ascended into heaven, escorted by the heavenly host, is coming again. The same Jesus who has been our Advocate, our friend at court, pleading the cases of all who accept Him as their Saviour, will come the second time to be admired in all them that believe.  {17MR 2.3}
[17MR 2.4]          There have been one and another who in studying their Bibles thought they discovered great light, and new theories, but these have not been correct. The Scripture is all true, but by misapplying the Scripture men arrive at wrong                                            -3-     conclusions. We are engaged in a mighty conflict, and it will become more close and determined as we near the final struggle. We have a sleepless adversary, and he is constantly at work upon human minds that have not had a personal experience in the teachings of the people of God for the past fifty years. Some will take the truth applicable to their time, and place it in the future. Events in the train of prophecy that had their fulfillment away in the past are made future, and thus by these theories the faith of some is undermined.  {17MR 2.4}
[17MR 3.1]          From the light that the Lord has been pleased to give me, you are in danger of doing the same work, presenting before others truths which have had their place and done their specific work for the time, in the history of the faith of the people of God. You recognize these facts in Bible history as true, but apply them to the future. They have their force still in their proper place, in the chain of events that have made us as a people what we are today, and as such they are to be presented to those who are in the darkness of error.  {17MR 3.1}
[17MR 3.2]          The true workers of Jesus Christ are to cooperate with their brethren who have had an experience in the work from the very rise of the third angel's message. These followed on step by step, receiving light and truth as they advanced, bearing one test after another, lifting the cross that lay directly in their pathway, and pressing on to know the Lord, whose goings forth are prepared as the morning. You and other of our brethren must accept the truth as God has given it to His students of prophecy, as they have been led by genuine, living experience, advancing point by point, tested, proved, and tried, until the truth is to them a reality. From their voices and pens the truth in bright, warm rays has gone to all parts of the world, and that which was to them testing truth, as brought by the Lord's delegated messengers, is testing truth to all to whom this message is proclaimed.                                            -4-  {17MR 3.2}
[17MR 4.1]          The burden of the warning now to come to the people of God, nigh and afar off, is the third angel's message. And those who are seeking to understand this message will not be led by the Lord to make an application of the Word that will undermine the foundation and remove the pillars of the faith that has made Seventh-day Adventists what they are today.  {17MR 4.1}
[17MR 4.2]          The truths that have been unfolding in their order, as we have advanced along the line of prophecy revealed in the Word of God, are truth, sacred, eternal truth today. Those who passed over the ground step by step in the past history of our experience, seeing the chain of truth in the prophecies, were prepared to accept and obey every ray of light. They were praying, fasting, searching, digging for the truth as for hidden treasures, and the Holy Spirit, we know, was teaching and guiding us. Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied scriptures that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, "Here is the truth," "I have the truth; follow me." But the warnings came, "Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran." (See Jeremiah 23:21.)  {17MR 4.2}
[17MR 4.3]         The leadings of the Lord were marked, and most wonderful were His revelations of what is truth. Point after point was established by the Lord God of heaven. That which was truth then, is truth today. But the voices do not cease to be heard--"This is truth. I have new light." But these new lights in prophetic lines are manifest in misapplying the Word and setting the people of God adrift without an anchor to hold them. If the student of the Word would take the truths which God has revealed in the leadings of His people, and appropriate these truths, digest them, and bring them into their practical life,                                            -5-     they would then be living channels of light. But those who have set themselves to study out new theories, have a mixture of truth and error combined, and after trying to make these things prominent, have demonstrated that they have not kindled their taper from the divine altar, and it has gone out in darkness.  {17MR 4.3}
[17MR 5.1]          According to the light God has given me, you are on the same track. That which appears to you to be a chain of truth is, in some lines, misplacing the prophecies and counterworking that which God has revealed as truth. The third angel's message is our burden to the people. It is the gospel of peace and righteousness and truth. Here is our work, to stand firmly to proclaim this. We need now to have every piece of the armor on.--Ms 31, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987. Entire manuscript.  {17MR 5.1}
[17MR 6.1]       MR No. 1237 - Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by John Bell--Part II                (Written November 8, 1896, at Cooranbong, N.S.W.)        The proclamation of the first, second, and third angels' messages has been located by the Word of Inspiration. Not a peg or pin is to be removed. No human authority has any more right to change the location of these messages than to substitute the New Testament for the Old. The Old Testament is the gospel in figures and symbols. The New Testament is the substance. One is as essential as the other. The Old Testament presents lessons from the lips of Christ, and these lessons have not lost their force in any particular.  {17MR 6.1}
[17MR 6.2]          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. It is just as essential now as ever before that they shall be repeated to those who are seeking for the truth. By pen and voice we are to sound the proclamation, showing their order and the application of the prophecies that bring us to the third angel's message. There cannot be a third without the first and second. 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.  {17MR 6.2}
[17MR 6.3]          The book that was sealed was not the book of Revelation, but that portion of the prophecy of Daniel which related to the last days. The Scripture says, "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased" ［Daniel 12:4］. When the book was opened, the proclamation was made, "Time shall be no longer." ［See Revelation 10:6.］ The book of Daniel is now unsealed, and the                                          -7-     revelation made by Christ to John is to come to all the inhabitants of the earth. By the increase of knowledge a people is to be prepared to stand in the latter days.  {17MR 6.3}
[17MR 7.1]          "And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters" ［Revelation 14:6, 7］.  {17MR 7.1}
[17MR 7.2]          This message, if heeded, will call the attention of every nation and kindred and tongue and people to a close examination of the Word, and to the true light in regard to the power that has changed the seventh-day Sabbath to a spurious sabbath. The only true God has been forsaken, His law has been discarded, His sacred Sabbath institution has been trampled in the dust by the man of sin. The fourth commandment, so plain and explicit, has been ignored. The Sabbath memorial, declaring who the living God is, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, has been torn down, and a spurious sabbath has been given to the world in its place. Thus a breach has been made in the law of God. A false sabbath could not be a true standard.  {17MR 7.2}
[17MR 7.3]          In the first angel's message men are called upon to worship God, our Creator, who made the world and all things that are therein. They have paid homage to an institution of the Papacy, making of no effect the law of Jehovah, but there is to be an increase of knowledge on this subject.  {17MR 7.3}
[17MR 7.4]          The message proclaimed by the angel flying in the midst of heaven is the everlasting gospel, the same gospel that was declared in Eden when God said to the serpent, "I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel" ［Genesis                                          -8-     3:15］. Here was the first promise of a Saviour who would stand on the field of battle to contest the power of Satan and prevail against him. Christ came to our world to represent the character of God as it is represented in His holy law; for His law is a transcript of His character. Christ was both the law and the gospel. The angel that proclaims the everlasting gospel proclaims the law of God; for the gospel of salvation brings men to obedience of the law, whereby their characters are formed after the divine similitude.  {17MR 7.4}
[17MR 8.1]         In the fifty-eight chapter of Isaiah, the work of those who worship God, the Maker of the heavens and the earth, is specified: "They that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations" ［Isaiah 58:12］. God's memorial, His seventh-day Sabbath, will be uplifted. "Thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath ［no longer trample it under your feet］, from doing thy pleasure on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour Him, . . . I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it" ［Isaiah 58:12-14］.  {17MR 8.1}
[17MR 8.2]          The history of the church and the world, the loyal and the disloyal, is here plainly revealed. The loyal under the proclamation of the third angel's message have turned their feet into the way of God's commandments, to respect, to honor, and glorify Him who created the heavens and the earth. The opposing forces have dishonored God by making a breach in His law, and when light from His Word has called attention to His holy commandments, revealing the breach made in the law by the papal authority, then, to get rid of conviction, men have tried to destroy the whole law. But could they destroy it? No; for all who                                          -9-     will search the Scriptures for themselves will see that the law of God stands immutable, eternal, and His memorial, the Sabbath, will endure through eternal ages, pointing to the only true God in distinction from all false gods.  {17MR 8.2}
[17MR 9.1]          Satan has been persevering and untiring in his efforts to prosecute the work he began in heaven, to change the law of God. He has succeeded in making the world believe the theory he presented in heaven before his fall, that the law of God was faulty and needed revising. A large part of the professed Christian church, by their attitude, if not by their words, show that they have accepted the same error. But if in one jot or tittle the law of God has been changed, Satan has gained on earth that which he could not gain in heaven. He has prepared his delusive snare, hoping to take captive the church and the world. But not all will be taken in the snare. A line of distinction is being drawn between the children of obedience and the children of disobedience, the loyal and true and the disloyal and untrue. Two great parties are developed, the worshipers of the beast and his image, and the worshipers of the true and living God.  {17MR 9.1}
[17MR 9.2]          The message of Revelation 14, proclaiming that the hour of God's judgment is come, is given in the time of the end; and the angel of Revelation 10 is represented as having one foot on the sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear the proclamation of the last message of warning to our world.  {17MR 9.2}
[17MR 9.3]          "And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, and sware by Him that liveth forever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be                                          -10-     time no longer" ［Revelation 10:5, 6］. This message announces the end of the prophetic periods. The disappointment of those who expected to see our Lord in 1844 was indeed bitter to those who had so ardently looked for His appearing. It was in the Lord's order that this disappointment should come, and that hearts should be revealed.  {17MR 9.3}
[17MR 10.1]          Not one cloud has fallen upon the church that God has not prepared for; not one opposing force has risen to counterwork the work of God but He has foreseen. All has taken place as He has predicted through His prophets. He has not left His church in darkness, forsaken, but has traced in prophetic declarations what would occur, and through His providence, acting in its appointed place in the world's history, He has brought about that which His Holy Spirit inspired the prophets to foretell. All His purposes will be fulfilled and established. His law is linked with His throne, and satanic agencies combined with human agencies cannot destroy it. Truth is inspired and guarded by God; it will live, and will succeed, although it may appear at times to be overshadowed. The gospel of Christ is the law exemplified in character. The deceptions practiced against it, every device for vindicating falsehood, every error forged by satanic agencies, will eventually be eternally broken, and the triumph of truth will be like the appearing of the sun at noonday. The Sun of Righteousness shall shine forth with healing in His wings, and the whole earth shall be filled with His glory.  {17MR 10.1}
[17MR 10.2]          All that God has in prophetic history specified to be fulfilled in the past has been, and all that is yet to come in its order will be. Daniel, God's prophet, stands in his place. John stands in his place. In the Revelation the Lion of the tribe of Judah has opened to the students of prophecy the book of Daniel, and thus is Daniel standing in his place. He bears his testimony, that                                           -11-     which the Lord revealed to him in vision of the great and solemn events which we must know as we stand on the very threshold of their fulfillment.  {17MR 10.2}
[17MR 11.1]          In history and prophecy the Word of God portrays the long, continued conflict between truth and error. That conflict is yet in progress. Those things which have been, will be repeated. Old controversies will be revived, and new theories will be continually arising. But God's people, who in their belief and fulfillment of prophecy have acted a part in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels' messages, know where they stand. They have an experience that is more precious than fine gold. They are to stand firm as a rock, holding the beginning of their confidence steadfast unto the end.  {17MR 11.1}
[17MR 11.2]          A transforming power attended the proclamation of the first and second angels' messages, as it attends the message of the third angel. Lasting convictions were made upon human minds. The power of the Holy Spirit was manifested. There was diligent study of the Scriptures, point by point. Almost entire nights were devoted to earnest searching of the Word. We searched for the truth as for hidden treasures. The Lord revealed Himself to us. Light was shed on the prophecies, and we knew that we received divine instruction.  {17MR 11.2}
[17MR 11.3]          This expresses something of the exercises we were passing through: "Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge. For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips. That thy trust may be in the Lord, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee. Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, that I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?" ［Proverbs 22:17-21］.                                           -12-  {17MR 11.3}
[17MR 12.1]          After the great Disappointment there were few who set themselves to seek the Word with all their heart. But some souls would not settle down in discouragement and deny that the Lord had led them. To these the truth was opened point by point, and entwined with their most hallowed recollections and sympathies. The searchers after truth felt that the identification of Christ with their nature and interest was complete. Truth was made to shine forth, beautiful in its simplicity, dignified with a power and invested with an assurance unknown before the Disappointment. We could then proclaim the message in unity.  {17MR 12.1}
[17MR 12.2]          But among those who had not held fast their faith and experience, there was great confusion. Every conceivable opinion was presented as the message of truth; but the Lord's voice was, "Believe them not; for I have not sent them."  {17MR 12.2}
[17MR 12.3]          We walked carefully with God. The message was to be given to the world, and we knew that this present light was the special gift of God. The impartation of this gift was the prerogative of God. His disappointed ones, who were still seeking after truth, were led step by step to communicate to the world that which had been communicated to them. The prophetic declarations were to be repeated, and the truth essential for salvation was to be made known. The work moved hard at first. Often the hearers rejected the message as unintelligible, and the conflict began in decided earnest, especially upon the Sabbath question. But the Lord manifested His presence. At times the veil which concealed His glory from our eyes was drawn aside. We beheld Him in the high and holy place.  {17MR 12.3}
[17MR 12.4]          The Lord will not lead minds now to set aside the truth that the Holy Spirit has moved upon His servants in the past to proclaim.  {17MR 12.4}
[17MR 12.5]          Many will honestly search the Word for light as those in the past have searched it; and they see light in the Word. But they did not pass over the ground in their experience, when these messages of warning were first proclaimed.                                           -13-     Not having had this experience, some do not appreciate the value of the truths that have been to us as waymarks, and that have made us as a peculiar people what we are. They do not make a right application of the Scriptures, and thus they frame theories that are not correct. It is true that they quote an abundance of Scripture, and teach much that is true; but truth is so mixed with error as to lead to wrong conclusions. Yet because they can weave Scripture into their theories, they think they have a straight chain of truth. Many who did not have an experience in the rise of the messages, accept these erroneous theories, and are led into false paths, backward instead of forward. This is the enemy's design.  {17MR 12.5}
[17MR 13.1]          Satan is working that the history of the Jewish nation may be repeated in the experience of those who claim to believe present truth. The Jews had the Old Testament Scriptures, and supposed themselves conversant with them. But they made a woeful mistake. The prophecies that refer to the glorious second appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven they regarded as referring to His first coming. Because He did not come according to their expectations, they turned away from Him. Satan knew just how to take these men in his net, and deceive and destroy them.  {17MR 13.1}
[17MR 13.2]          Sacred, eternal truths had been given them in trust for the world. The treasures of the law and the gospel, united as closely as the Father is united with the Son, were to be presented to all the world. The prophet declares, "For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth. And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth                                           -14-     of the Lord shall name. Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God" ［Isaiah 62:1-3］.  {17MR 13.2}
[17MR 14.1]          This is that which the Lord had spoken concerning Jerusalem. But when Jesus came to our world just as prophecy had declared He would come, His divinity clothed with humanity, with majesty and lowliness combined, His mission was misunderstood. The delusive hope for a temporal prince led to misapplication of Scripture.  {17MR 14.1}
[17MR 14.2]          Jesus came as an infant of days, of poor parentage. But there were some who were willing to receive the heavenly Guest. For these the angel messengers veiled their glory, and the heavenly chorus rang over the hills of Bethlehem with hosannas to the newborn King. The humble shepherds believed Him, received Him, and worshiped Him. But the very ones who ought to have been the first to welcome Jesus did not discern Him. He was not the one their ambitious hopes desired. The false path they had entered, they continued to follow to the end. They became unteachable, self-righteous, and self-sufficient, fancying they possessed true light and that they were the only safe instructors of the people.  {17MR 14.2}
[17MR 14.3]          The very same Satan is at work to undermine the faith of the people of God at this time. There are persons ready to catch up every new idea. The prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are misinterpreted. These persons do not consider that the truth has been set forth at the appointed time by the very men whom God was leading to do this special work. These men followed on step by step in the very fulfillment of prophecy, and those who have not had a personal experience in this work are to take the Word of God and believe on "their word" who have been led by the Lord in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels' messages. These messages, received and acted upon, are doing their work to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. If we search                                           -15-     the Scriptures to confirm the truth God has given His servants for the world, we shall be found proclaiming the first, second, and third angels' messages.  {17MR 14.3}
[17MR 15.1]          It is true that there are prophecies yet to be fulfilled. But very erroneous work has been done again and again, and will continue to be done by those who seek to find new light in the prophecies, and who begin by turning away from the light that God has already given. The messages of Revelation 14 are those by which the world is to be tested; they are the everlasting gospel, and are to be sounded everywhere. But the Lord does not lay upon those who have not had an experience in His work the burden of making a new exposition of those prophecies which He has, by His Holy Spirit, moved upon His chosen servants to explain.  {17MR 15.1}
[17MR 15.2]          According to the light God has given me, this is the work which you, Brother John Bell, have been attempting to do. Your views have found favor with some; but it is because these persons have not discernment to see the true bearing of the arguments you present. They have had but a limited experience in the work of God for this time, and they do not see where your views would lead them, and you do not see yourself where they would lead. They are ready to assent to your statements; they see nothing in them but that which is correct. But they are misled because you have woven together much Scripture in constructing your theory. Your arguments appear conclusive to them.  {17MR 15.2}
[17MR 15.3]          Not so, however, with those who have an experimental knowledge of the truth that applies in the last period of this earth's history. While they see that you hold some precious truth, they see also that you have misapplied Scripture, placing it in a framework of error where it does not belong, and making it give force to what which is not present truth. Because some accept that which you have written, do not become elated. It is most trying to your brethren who have                                          -16-     confidence in you as a Christian and who love you as such, to state to you that the network of argument, which you have thought of so great consequence is not the theory of truth that God has given His people to proclaim for this time.  {17MR 15.3}
[17MR 16.1]          The light God has given me is that the Scriptures you have woven together you yourself do not fully understand. If you did, you would discern that your theories tear up the very foundation of our faith.  {17MR 16.1}
[17MR 16.2]          My brother, I have had many testimonies to correct those who have started out in the same way you are now traveling. These persons seemed sure that they were led by God, and they have come with their different theories to ministers who were preaching the truth. I said to these ministers, "The Lord is not in this; be not deceived, neither take the responsibility of deceiving others." At camp meetings I have had to speak plainly in regard to those who were thus leading away from right paths. With pen and voice I have borne the message, "Go not ye after them."  {17MR 16.2}
[17MR 16.3]          The hardest task I ever had to do in this line was in dealing with one who, I knew, wanted to follow the Lord. For some time he had thought he was obtaining new light. He was very ill, and must soon die. And oh, how my heart hoped he would not make it necessary for me to tell him just what he was doing. Those to whom he presented his views listened to him eagerly, and some thought him inspired. He had a chart made, and reasoned from the Scriptures to show that the Lord would come at a certain date, in 1894, I think. To many his reasoning seemed to be without a flaw. They told of his powerful exhortations in his sickroom. Most wonderful views passed before him. But what was the source of his inspiration? It was the morphine given him to relieve his pain.  {17MR 16.3}
[17MR 16.4]          At our camp meeting at Lansing, Michigan, just before I came to Australia, I had to speak plainly in regard to this new light. I told the people that the                                         -17-     words they had heard were not the truth of inspiration. The wonderful light, which presented such a show of truth, was the result of a misapplication of Scripture. The Lord's work would not close up in 1894. The word of the Lord to me was, "This is not truth, but will lead into strange paths, and some will become confused over this representation, and will give up the faith."  {17MR 16.4}
[17MR 17.1]          Other persons have written to me of most flattering views which had been presented to them, and some have had them put in print. A new life has seemed to stir them; they are full of zeal. But the word comes to me as it has come to me in regard to the theories you hold: "Believe them not." You have a mixture of truth and error, so combined that you think it all genuine. Here is where the Jews stumbled. They wove a fabric that appeared to them a beautiful thing, but it led them to refuse the light Christ brought to them. They thought they had great light, and in that light they walked, and rejected the pure, true light which Christ had come to give. Intensity is taking possession of minds, urging them into different ventures, which lead them they know not where.  {17MR 17.1}
[17MR 17.2]          No one has a true message fixing the time when Christ is to come or not to come. Be assured that God gives no one authority to say that Christ delays His coming five years, ten years, or twenty years. "Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh" ［Matthew 24:44］. This is our message, the very message that the three angels flying in the midst of heaven are proclaiming. The work to be done now is that of sounding this last message of mercy to a fallen world. A new life is coming from heaven and taking possession of all God's people. But divisions will come in the church. Two parties will be developed. The wheat and tares grow up together for the harvest.                                            -18-  {17MR 17.2}
[17MR 18.1]          The work will grow deeper and become more earnest to the very close of time. And all who are laborers together with God will contend most earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints. They will not be turned from the present message, which is already lightening the earth with its glory. Nothing is worth contending for but the glory of God. The only rock that will stand is the Rock of Ages. The truth as it is in Jesus is the refuge in these days of error.  {17MR 18.1}
[17MR 18.2]          God has warned His people of the perils before them. John beholds the things which will be in the last days, and he sees a people working counter to God. Read Revelation 12:17; 14:10-13, and chapters 17 and 13. John sees the company who have been deceived. He says, "I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 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 16:13-15］.  {17MR 18.2}
[17MR 18.3]         From those who have rejected truth, the light of God has departed. They did not heed the message of the True Witness, "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" ［Revelation 3:18］. But that message will do its work, and a people will be prepared to stand without fault before God.  {17MR 18.3}
[17MR 18.4]          John beheld this company, and he says, "Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen,                                        -19-     clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints" ［Revelation 19:7, 8］.  {17MR 18.4}
[17MR 19.1]          Prophecy has been fulfilling, line upon line. The more firmly we stand under the banner of the third angel's message, the more clearly shall we understand the prophecy of Daniel; for the Revelation is the supplement of Daniel. The more fully we accept the light presented by the Holy Spirit through the consecrated servants of God, the deeper and surer, even as the eternal throne, will appear the truths of ancient prophecy; we shall be assured that men of God spake as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost. Men must themselves be under the influence of the Holy Spirit in order to understand the Spirit's utterances through the prophets. These messages were given, not for those that uttered the prophecies, but for us who are living amid the scenes of their fulfillment.  {17MR 19.1}
[17MR 19.2]          I would not feel that I could present these things, if the Lord had not given me this work to do. There are others besides yourself, and more than one or two, who like you think they have new light, and are all ready to present it to the people. But it would be pleasing to God for them to accept the light already given and walk in it, and base their faith upon the Scriptures, which sustain the positions held by the people of God for many years. The everlasting gospel is to be proclaimed by human agents. We are to sound the messages of the angels which are represented as flying in the midst of heaven, with the last warning to a fallen world. If we are not called upon to prophesy, we are called to believe the prophecies, and to cooperate with God in giving light to other minds. This we are trying to do.  {17MR 19.2}
[17MR 19.3]          You can help us, my brother, in many ways. But I am commissioned of the Lord to say to you that you are not to be self-centered. Take heed how you                                        -20-     hear, how you understand, and how you appropriate the Word of God. The Lord will bless you in drawing in even lines with your brethren. Those whom He has sent forth to proclaim the third angel's message have been working in unison with the heavenly intelligences. The Lord does not lay upon you a burden to proclaim a message that will bring discord into the ranks of believers. I repeat, He is not leading anyone by His Holy Spirit to frame a theory that will unsettle faith in the solemn messages He has given His people to bear to our world.  {17MR 19.3}
[17MR 20.1]          I advise you not to regard your writings as precious truth. It would not be advisable for you to immortalize by putting in print that which has cost you so much anxiety. It is not the Lord's will that this matter should be brought before His people, for it will work to hinder the very message of truth they are to believe and practice in these last days of peril.  {17MR 20.1}
[17MR 20.2]          The Lord Jesus said to His disciples when He was with them, "I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now." He could have made disclosures which would have absorbed the attention of the disciples and caused them to lose sight of His former instruction that He wished to be the subject of their most earnest thought. But He withheld those things which they would have been amazed to hear, and which would have afforded them opportunity to cavil, to create misunderstanding and disaffection. He would give no occasion for persons of little faith and piety to mystify and misrepresent the truth, and thus create factions.  {17MR 20.2}
[17MR 20.3]          Jesus could have presented mysteries which would have given subject for thought and investigation for generations, even to the close of time. Himself the source of all true science, He could have led men to the investigation of mysteries, and age after age their minds would have been so thoroughly absorbed                                          -21-     that they would have felt no desire to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God.  {17MR 20.3}
[17MR 21.1]          Jesus well knew that Satan is constantly working to excite curiosity, and busy men with conjecture. Thus he seeks to eclipse the grand and momentous truth which Christ wished to be ever prominent before their minds. "For this is life eternal, that they might know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent."  {17MR 21.1}
[17MR 21.2]          There is a lesson for us in those words of Christ spoken after the feeding of the five thousand. He said, "Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost." These words meant more than that the disciples should gather the broken pieces of bread into baskets. Jesus meant that they should mark His words, should study the Scriptures, and treasure every ray of light. Instead of searching for a knowledge of something that God had not revealed, they were carefully to gather up what He had given them.  {17MR 21.2}
[17MR 21.3]          Satan had tried to eclipse from human minds the knowledge of God, and to eradicate from their hearts the attributes of God. Man was seeking out many inventions, which he supposed that he himself had originated, and he thought himself wiser than God. That which God had revealed was misconstrued, misapplied, and mingled with satanic delusions.  Satan will quote Scripture in order to deceive. He tried to deceive Christ in this way. So he still tries to deceive men. He will lead them to misconstrue the Scriptures, and make them testify to falsehood.  {17MR 21.3}
[17MR 21.4]         Christ came to adjust truths that had been misplaced and made to serve the cause of error. He recalled them, repeated them, placed them in their proper position in the framework of truth, and bade them stand fast forever. Thus it was with the law of God, with the Sabbath, and with the marriage institution.                                          -22-     We are to study His example. Satan seeks to obliterate everything that would keep the true God in remembrance; but the followers of Christ are to treasure up what God has revealed. No truth of His Word, opened to them by His Spirit, is to be set aside.  {17MR 21.4}
[17MR 22.1]          Theories will be continually agitated to divert the mind, to unsettle the faith. Those who have had the actual experience in the unfolding of the prophecies, have been made what they are today, Seventh-day Adventists, by these prophecies. They are to stand with their loins girt about with truth, and with the whole armor on. Those who have not had this experience are privileged to hold the message of truth with the same confidence. The light that God has been pleased to give His people will not weaken their confidence in the path in which He has led them in the past, but will strengthen them to hold fast the faith. We must hold the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end.  {17MR 22.1}
[17MR 22.2]          "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus" (Revelation 14:12). Here we stand, under the third angel's message. "And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities" ［Revelation 18:1-5］.                                          -23-  {17MR 22.2}
[17MR 23.1]          Thus the substance of the second angel's message is again given to the world by that other angel who lightens the earth with his glory. These messages all blend in one, to come before the people in the closing days of this earth's history. All the world will be tested, and all that have been in the darkness of error in regard to the Sabbath of the fourth commandment will understand the last message of mercy that is to be given to men.  {17MR 23.1}
[17MR 23.2]          Our work is to proclaim the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. "Prepare to meet thy God" ［Amos 4:12］, is the warning given to the world. It is a warning to us individually. We are called upon to lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us. There is a work for you, my brother, to do, to yoke up with Christ. Make sure that your building is on the rock. Do not risk eternity on a probability. You may not live to participate in the perilous scenes on which we are now entering. The life of no one of us is assured for any given time. Should you not watch every moment? Should you not closely examine your own self, and inquire, What will eternity be to me?  {17MR 23.2}
[17MR 23.3]          The great burden of every soul should be, Is my heart renewed? Is my soul transformed? Are my sins pardoned through faith in Christ? Have I been born again? Am I complying with the invitation, "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］. Do you count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus? And do you feel it your duty to believe every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God?--Ms 32, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 23.3}
[17MR 24.1]       MR No. 1238 -  Comments on the Incarnation of Christ         ［IN RELEASING THIS REQUESTED COMPILATION THE WHITE ESTATE RECOGNIZES THAT IT IS INCOMPLETE AND THAT OTHER RESEARCHERS MIGHT SELECT A DIFFERENT GROUP OF STATEMENTS. IT ALSO RECOGNIZES THAT THE READER WOULD BE BENEFITED BY HAVING MORE CONTEXT FOR SOME OF THE STATEMENTS. ALTHOUGH IT IS WHITE ESTATE POLICY TO RELEASE ENTIRE DOCUMENTS WHEREVER FEASIBLE, IN THIS INSTANCE THE ENORMOUS NUMBER OF PAGES INVOLVED MAKE IT IMPRACTICAL. IF THERE IS SPECIAL INTEREST IN ANY OF THE STATEMENTS, THE ESTATE WILL BE GLAD TO RELEASE ADDITIONAL CONTEXT.］  {17MR 24.1}
[17MR 24.2]                          Comments on the Incarnation of Christ          The Son of God, who is the express image of the Father's person, became man's Advocate and Redeemer. He humbled Himself in taking the nature of man in his fallen condition, but he did not take the taint of sin.--Ms 93, 1893, p. 3.  {17MR 24.2}
[17MR 24.3]          He ［Christ］ came to bring moral power to man that he might overcome every sin, that he might become conqueror through Christ.--Ms 43a, 1894, p. 11.  {17MR 24.3}
[17MR 24.4]          Christ stooped to take man's nature that He might reveal God's sentiments toward the fallen race. Divinity and humanity combined were brought within the reach of all, that fallen man might reveal the image of God. Christ assumed our nature to counterwork Satan's false principles.--Ms 43, 1897, pp. 2, 3.  {17MR 24.4}
[17MR 24.5]          By overcoming in man's behalf, He ［Christ］ was placing fallen man on vantage ground with God. In His human nature Jesus gave evidence that in every temptation wherewith Satan shall assail fallen man, there is help for him in God, if he will take hold of His strength, and through obedience make peace with Him. Jesus stood forth in human nature a conqueror in behalf of the fallen race.--Ms 49, 1897, p. 9.  {17MR 24.5}
[17MR 24.6]          As the world's Redeemer He ［Christ］ understands all the experiences that humanity must pass through.--Ms 128, 1897, p. 11.                                          -25-  {17MR 24.6}
[17MR 25.1]          In itself the act of consenting to be a man would be no act of humiliation were it not for the fact of Christ's exalted preexistence, and the fallen condition of man. But when we open our understanding to realize that in taking humanity upon Him, Christ laid aside His royal robe, His kingly crown, His high command, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might meet man where he was, and bring to the human family moral power to become the sons and daughters of God, ［we begin to understand the magnitude of the Incarnation］.--Ms 67, 1898, pp. 4, 5.  {17MR 25.1}
[17MR 25.2]          He ［Christ］ had clothed His divinity with humanity, and in every period of His life, through infancy, childhood, youth, and manhood, He had suffered every phase of trial and temptation with which humanity is beset.--Ms 35, 1895, p. 1.  {17MR 25.2}
[17MR 25.3]          When Jesus would uplift men to become members of the heavenly family, He humbled Himself to become a member of the earthly family, and by partaking of our nature He became the Son of man, the Son of Adam, and a Brother to every son and daughter of our fallen race.--Ms 58, 1896, p. 4.  {17MR 25.3}
[17MR 25.4]          What a sight was this for heaven to look upon. Christ, who knew not the least moral taint or defilement of sin, took our nature in its deteriorated condition. . . .  {17MR 25.4}
[17MR 25.5]          By taking upon Himself man's nature in its fallen condition Christ did not in the least participate in its sin. He was subject to the infirmities and weaknesses of the flesh with which humanity is encompassed, "that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses" ［Matthew 8:17］. He was touched with the                                         -26-     feeling of our infirmities, and was in all points tempted like as we are. And yet He was without a spot.  {17MR 25.5}
[17MR 26.1]          There should not be the faintest misgiving in regard to the perfect freedom from sinfulness in the human nature of Christ.--Ms 143, 1897, pp. 1, 3.  {17MR 26.1}
[17MR 26.2]          The heavenly universe were amazed at such patience, such inexpressible love. To save fallen humanity, the Son of God took humanity upon Him, laying aside His kingly crown and royal robe. He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. One with God, He alone was capable of accomplishing this work, and He consented to an actual union with man. In His sinlessness, He could bear every transgression.  {17MR 26.2}
[17MR 26.3]          This love was manifested, but it cannot be comprehended by mortal man. It is a mystery too deep for the human mind to fathom. Christ did in reality unite the offending nature of man with His own sinless nature, because by this act of condescension, He would be enabled to pour out His blood in behalf of the fallen race.--Ms 166, 1898, pp. 9, 10.  {17MR 26.3}
[17MR 26.4]          The Lord Jesus Christ left His riches and His splendor in the heavenly courts and took humanity upon Himself that He might cooperate with humanity in the work of uplifting them.--Ms 177, 1898, p. 4.  {17MR 26.4}
[17MR 26.5]          Christ clothed His divinity with humanity that He might associate with the fallen race, and through His own merits might elevate man to be a partaker of the divine nature. . . . Man can accomplish nothing without God, but God has chosen that His only begotten Son should come in the form of humanity to stand at the head of the fallen race.--Ms 193, 1898, pp. 1, 2.                                         -27-  {17MR 26.5}
[17MR 27.1]          He ［God］ could not make man a partaker of the divine nature until His only begotten Son, One equal with Himself, should stoop to human nature, and reach man where he was.--Ms 23, 1899, p. 5.  {17MR 27.1}
[17MR 27.2]          He, the Majesty of heaven, disrobed Himself of His glory, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might pass through what humanity must pass through.--Ms 147, 1899. p. 5.  {17MR 27.2}
[17MR 27.3]          He ［Christ］ might have cut Himself loose from fallen beings. He might have treated them as sinners deserve to be treated. But instead, He came still nearer to them.--Ms 165, 1899, p. 3.  {17MR 27.3}
[17MR 27.4]          In all the afflictions of humanity He ［Jesus］ was afflicted. Ms 21, 1900, p. 6.  {17MR 27.4}
[17MR 27.5]          Christ became one with the human family. He spoke in the language of men. He bore with them their trials and their poverty. He ate with them at their tables, and shared their toils. Thus He assured them of His complete identification with humanity.--Ms 53, 1900, p. 1.  {17MR 27.5}
[17MR 27.6]          The fallen nature of man is like the vine's tendrils grasping the stubble and rubbish. But Christ is represented as coming down from heaven and taking the nature of man, thus making it possible for the human arm of Christ to encircle fallen man, while with His divine arm He reaches to the very throne of God so that He can place man on vantage ground with God.--Ms 88, 1900, p. 3.                                         -28-  {17MR 27.6}
[17MR 28.1]          All the human family of God which Christ has taken into close relationship to His own humanity are subjects which He has redeemed by giving His life a substitute for them, that the human family shall have a second probation.--Ms 89, 1900, p. 10.  {17MR 28.1}
[17MR 28.2]          We are compassed with the infirmities of humanity. So also was Christ. That He might by His own example condemn sin in the flesh, He took upon Himself the likeness of sinful flesh.--Ms 125, 1901, p. 14.  {17MR 28.2}
[17MR 28.3]          The Son of God took human nature upon Him, and came to this earth to stand at the head of the fallen race. He dwelt on this earth a man among men.--Ms 11, 1902, p. 6.  {17MR 28.3}
[17MR 28.4]          He took the nature of man, with all its possibilities. We have nothing to endure that He has not endured. . . . Adam had the advantage over Christ, in that when he was assailed by the tempter, none of the effects of sin were upon him. He stood in the strength of perfect manhood, possessing the full vigor of mind and body. He was surrounded with the glories of Eden, and was in daily communion with heavenly beings. It was not thus with Jesus when He entered the wilderness to cope with Satan. For four thousand years the race had been decreasing in physical strength, in mental power, in moral worth; and Christ took upon Him the infirmities of degenerate humanity. Only thus could He rescue man from the lowest depths of degradation.--Ms. 113, 1902, pp. 1, 2 (See DA 117).                                         -29-  {17MR 28.4}
[17MR 29.1]          He ［Christ］ laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might stand among the human family as one of them.--Ms 115, 1902, p. 8.  {17MR 29.1}
[17MR 29.2]          The Saviour came to the world in lowliness, and lived as a man among men. On all points except sin divinity was to touch humanity.--Ms 9, 1903, p. 9.  {17MR 29.2}
[17MR 29.3]          The Saviour took upon Himself the infirmities of humanity, and on this earth lived a sinless life that men should have no fear that because of the weakness of human nature they would not be able to overcome.--Ms 51, 1903, p. 4.  {17MR 29.3}
[17MR 29.4]          Christ assumed our fallen nature, and was subject to every temptation to which man is subject.--Ms 80, 1903, p. 12.  {17MR 29.4}
[17MR 29.5]          Christ became one with the human family--bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. . . . He pledged Himself to endure all the temptations that man must endure, that He might know how to succor those who are tempted.--Ms 102, 1903, p. 7.  {17MR 29.5}
[17MR 29.6]          The majesty of heaven stepped down from His royal throne, gave up His authority as Commander in the heavenly courts, laid aside His kingly robe and crown, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might take on Himself the weakness of human nature. This He did that He might give men an example of true humility.  {17MR 29.6}
[17MR 29.7]          Only by living a sinless life while clad in the garb of humanity, could Christ, as man's Substitute and Surety, bear the burden of the sin of a fallen                                         -30-     world. He was to suffer, being tempted in all points upon which fallen men are tempted, that by His own experience He might become acquainted with the temptation of humanity, and know how to succor those who are most severely tempted.--Ms 107, 1903, p. 5.  {17MR 29.7}
[17MR 30.1]          Christ was about to visit our world, and to become incarnate. He says, "A body hast Thou prepared Me." Had He appeared with the glory that was His with the Father before the world was, we could not have endured the light of His presence. That we might behold it and not be destroyed, the manifestation of His glory was shrouded. His divinity was veiled with humanity--the invisible glory in the visible human form.  {17MR 30.1}
[17MR 30.2]          This great purpose had been shadowed forth in types and symbols. The burning bush, in which Christ appeared to Moses, revealed God. The symbol chosen for the representation of the Deity was a lowly shrub that seemingly had no attractions. This enshrined the Infinite. 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," "in the likeness of men."--Ms 151, 1903, p. 3.  {17MR 30.2}
[17MR 30.3]          In order to embrace every human being in the plan of salvation, Christ came not as a prince, escorted by a majestic train of heavenly angels; He came in the likeness of mankind.--Ms 110, 1904, p. 10.                                        -31-  {17MR 30.3}
[17MR 31.1]          Christ brought men and women power to overcome. He came to this world in human form, to live a man among men. He assumed the liabilities of human nature, to be proved and tried.--Ms 22, 1905, pp. 2, 3.  {17MR 31.1}
[17MR 31.2]          A divine-human Saviour, He ［Christ］ came to stand at the head of the fallen race, to share in their experience from childhood to manhood.--Ms 54, 1905, pp. 4, 5.  {17MR 31.2}
[17MR 31.3]          He ［Christ］ took His stand at the head of the fallen race, that men and women might be enabled to stand on vantage ground.--Ms 58, 1905, p. 3.  {17MR 31.3}
[17MR 31.4]          He ［Christ］ is our elder Brother, compassed with human infirmities, and in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.--Ms 9, 1906, p. 2.  {17MR 31.4}
[17MR 31.5]          In order to make man a partaker of His nature, He ［Christ］ took humanity upon Himself, from His earliest years bearing the trials and temptations which the human family must bear. He identified Himself with man's weakness, that man might identify himself with His strength.--Ms 49, 1907, p. 3.  {17MR 31.5}
[17MR 31.6]         He who was Commander in the heavenly courts laid aside His royal robes, laid off His kingly crown, and came as a little child to our world to experience all the ills that humanity is heir to.--Ms 99, 1908, p. 7.  {17MR 31.6}
[17MR 31.7]          Christ in the courts of heaven had known that the time would come when the power of Satan must be met and conquered if the human race was ever to be saved from his dominion. And when that time came, the Son of God laid off His kingly                                        -32-     crown and royal robe, and, clothing His divinity with humanity, came to the earth to meet the Prince of evil, and to conquer him. In order to become the advocate of men before the Father, He would live His life on earth as every human being must, accepting its adversities and sorrows and temptations. As the Babe of Bethlehem, He would become one with the race, and by a spotless life from the manger to the cross, He would show that man by a life of repentance and faith in Him might be restored to the favor of God. He would bring to man redeeming grace, forgiveness of sins. If men would return to their loyalty, and no longer transgress the law of God, they would receive pardon.  {17MR 31.7}
[17MR 32.1]          Christ in the weakness of humanity was to meet the temptations of one possessing the power of the higher nature that God had bestowed on the angelic family. But His humanity was united with divinity, and in this strength He would bear all the temptations that Satan could bring against Him, and yet keep His soul untainted by sin.--Ms 117, 1908, pp. 3, 4.  {17MR 32.1}
[17MR 32.2]          So great was the interest of God in our world that He gave His only begotten Son to come to the earth as a little child and to live a life like that of every human being, that through Him humanity might reach divinity. --Ms 49, 1909, p. 4.  {17MR 32.2}
[17MR 32.3]          Christ came to our world to dispute Satan's sovereignty, to remove from the minds of men the false impressions that they had received of God. He came in human form, that He might come close to the fallen race, and through divine power break the hold that Satan had obtained over them.--Ms 33, 1911, p. 19.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987.  {17MR 32.3}
[17MR 33.1]      MR No. 1239 - True "Higher Education"; Appeal to Work the Cities; Wives to Receive Remuneration for Their Gospel Work       (Written October 27, 1909, from Sanitarium, California, to A. G. Daniells.)            I have commenced several letters to you, but other matters that needed attention came in, and your letter was not finished.  {17MR 33.1}
[17MR 33.2]          I have been instructed to present to our people very definitely the difference between the "higher education" so-called by the world, and that which the Lord regards as the higher education. In the instruction which the Lord gives, there is nothing fraudulent. It is true and safe instruction. Our study of the Word of God will help us to a right understanding of this matter.  {17MR 33.2}
[17MR 33.3]         The psalmist David wrote: ［Psalms 32:5-11, quoted］.  {17MR 33.3}
[17MR 33.4]          Let us study also the 33rd Psalm; it contains precious instruction for those who wish to understand the way of the Lord. In this instruction men are encouraged to proclaim to their fellow men the exalted privilege of expressing the divine image in thought and deed. There is no encouragement for self to manifest itself in large proportions; but encouragement is given that the Lord will impress and refine and purify the heart and mind and life. "Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear Him, upon them that hope in His mercy; to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waiteth for the Lord: He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in Thee" ［Verses 18-22］.  {17MR 33.4}
[17MR 33.5]         In our individual experience we need to learn the meaning of true sanctification, because we have laid our ways and our will upon God's altar to be purified and refined and ennobled. This is pure religion. I am instructed to                                        -34-     keep constantly before the people of God the divine favor to be obtained by seeking the Lord in faith and humility of soul. There is a deeper experience for each one of us to gain. If we will seek the Lord in humble confession of our sins, it will be seen by all that we are coming up on a higher platform. Our words and works will be of a character to reflect light. Selfishness will be extinguished, and nobility of soul will shine forth in works of righteousness. Oh, that every soul might look into the gospel mirror, and reflect the divine attributes there revealed!  {17MR 33.5}
[17MR 34.1]         "Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. And He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass" ［Psalms 37:3-7］.  {17MR 34.1}
[17MR 34.2]          I am instructed to urge these words upon the minds of all who have had the light of present truth. The Lord has appointed angels to be our ministering spirits that the powers of evil shall not destroy us.  {17MR 34.2}
[17MR 34.3]          These words were spoken to me: "The faith and works of My professed people fall far short of the assurances I have given them." In these words you may find assurance that the Lord will do for us all that He has promised, if we will do our part to obey all His righteous requirements. It has been presented to me that there must be a cleansing of heart and mind and soul from every evil thing. Unbelief must be put away, and the professing believer must bring into his daily life the principles of the Word of God.                                        -35-  {17MR 34.3}
[17MR 35.1]         I am instructed to say to the workers in our offices of publication: You may be very zealous for the publication and sale of our books and papers, but this will not make you acceptable in the sight of God if the warnings and strivings of His Spirit are unheeded. It is individual sanctification through the truth that God requires, that His name may be glorified.  {17MR 35.1}
[17MR 35.2]          Again and again I have repeated the instruction the Lord has given me concerning the opening of new fields, that our large cities might hear the truths of the third angel's message. Yet with all the urgent calls that have been made our brethren are not yet turning their attention to this work with the determination and earnestness that the importance of the case demands. A great work will be done in our cities when more earnest plans are laid for the furtherance of the cause of present truth in these places.  {17MR 35.2}
[17MR 35.3]          We would release some of the workers that are now tied up in those places where many interests are centering, that they may go out as missionaries to communicate the truth to others. Not only should the workers in these centers be devoting their energies and means to the sending out of our publications, but they should also feel the importance of spending a portion of their money in supporting the living preacher in the cities where labor wisely expended will be very effective.  {17MR 35.3}
[17MR 35.4]          The printed page cannot accomplish alone the work that the living minister can do. He can explain the Scriptures to the people, praying with them and appealing to them, and making effective the truths of the Bible. Not merely one or two men are called to do this work, but many men and women who have ability to preach and teach the Word.  {17MR 35.4}
[17MR 35.5]          As the messengers of God teach the Word, and live themselves by its truths, heavenly angels will set home the Word to minds and hearts. One living                                           -36-     discourse to a congregation of hearers may do a work that many publications could not accomplish. The minister's words, spoken under the Holy Spirit's guidance, his example in his association with the people, will accomplish a work that our publications of themselves cannot do.  {17MR 35.5}
[17MR 36.1]          If necessary, let us limit the number of our periodical publications, and let us send forth men and women to labor in faith and consecration for the giving of this last message of mercy to the world. When it is possible, let the minister and his wife go forth together. The wife can often labor by the side of her husband, accomplishing a noble work. She can visit the homes of the people, and help the women in these families in a way that her husband cannot.  {17MR 36.1}
[17MR 36.2]          Some will offer themselves for service who are not adapted to this line of work. Direct these to a work that they can do, and encourage them to study the first chapter of Second Peter. Here is a representation of the experiences that will fit men and women to become efficient workers for God.  {17MR 36.2}
[17MR 36.3]          Select women who will act an earnest part. The Lord will use intelligent women in the work of teaching. And let none feel that these women, who understand the Word and who have ability to teach, should not receive remuneration for their labors. They should be paid as verily as are their husbands. There is a great work for women to do in the cause of present truth. Through the exercise of womanly tact and a wise use of their knowledge of Bible truth, they can remove difficulties that our brethren cannot meet. We need women workers to labor in connection with their husbands, and should encourage those who wish to engage in this line of missionary work.  {17MR 36.3}
[17MR 36.4]          Elder Haskell and his wife have united their labors in the California Conference. Conditions here demanded the capabilities of both. Let none question the right of Sister Haskell to receive remuneration for her work. Dr.                                           -37-     Kress and his wife are likewise capable of uniting in missionary effort. None would question the right of Sister Kress to receive a salary. Laboring thus, Brother and Sister Kress can accomplish more than if they labored separately.  {17MR 36.4}
[17MR 37.1]          Study the Scriptures for further light on this point. Women were among Christ's devoted followers in the days of His ministry, and Paul makes mention of certain women who were "helpers together" with him "in the gospel."  {17MR 37.1}
[17MR 37.2]          The Lord has shown me that there is a work to be done in the cities that is scarcely entered upon. This question of the work in the cities is to become a living question with us. We must not now lay plans for a long, extended work. The message is to be carried quickly. The long delay in carrying out the instruction of the Lord regarding work in the cities has made the work of reaching all classes more difficult. The work must be undertaken at once, and the Lord calls for consecrated laborers who will engage in earnest effort according to the light He has given.  {17MR 37.2}
[17MR 37.3]          Centers are to be made in many places. Our work is a worldwide one. Let evidences of the Holy Spirit's working upon our hearts be seen in our taking hold of this work in simplicity and in the power of God. Let us follow without delay the instruction of the Lord, to prepare the cities for the coming of Christ.--Letter 142, 1909.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 37.3}
[17MR 38.1]       MR No. 1240 - Week of Prayer in San Francisco; Visit to an SDA Vegetarian Restaurant         Friday, December 21, ［1900］, I left St. Helena for San Francisco, where I was to spend the Week of Prayer. I was taken to the home of Dr. Mattner, where I was made every comfortable.  {17MR 38.1}
[17MR 38.2]          On Sabbath morning I went to the church, intending to speak. I found two stoves in the meeting room, one on either side midway between the door and the pulpit. Fires were burning in each of these. Sabbath school had just been held in the room, and, owing to the imperfect ventilation, the atmosphere was very impure. I felt the effect of this as soon as I entered. My heart began to pain. I could not breathe freely and I knew that exhaustion was coming over me.  {17MR 38.2}
[17MR 38.3]         I said to Elder Corliss, "I know that I cannot speak this morning." He was greatly disappointed, and asked me if I would venture to speak in the afternoon. I said that I thought I could, and, as nothing had been said before about an afternoon meeting, he put the question to the people. They unanimously decided to have a meeting.  {17MR 38.3}
[17MR 38.4]           I would  have left the church then, but I thought Sara had gone, so I sat down in a chair in the stand. I pressed close behind the organ, fearing that I might fall from my chair and create a sensation. I did not attempt to walk out by myself, for I feared that I could not do it. Presently a hand was laid on my shoulder, and Sara said, How is it, Mother?" I cannot describe the relief that came to me to know that Sara was there. She helped me into the open air, and immediately I felt better.  {17MR 38.4}
[17MR 38.5]         I lay down as soon as I could get to my room, and while I rested I asked                                         -39-     the Lord to give me strength for the afternoon. He heard my prayer, and helped me to stand before the people, though I was so weak that I had to cling to the pulpit with both hands to steady myself. I asked the people to pray for me, and I would do my best. The Lord was with me, and I had great freedom in speaking from Revelation 2:1-5: ［quoted］.  {17MR 38.5}
[17MR 39.1]          The deep moving of the Spirit of God came upon me, and the people were deeply impressed. After I had finished speaking, Elder Corliss invited all those who desired to give themselves to the Lord to come forward. A large number responded, among them a young man who is a Catholic. Prayer was offered for these precious souls. Several who came forward were in the valley of decision. May the Lord strengthen the good impression made upon their minds, and may they give themselves wholly to the Lord, is my prayer. Oh, how I long to see souls converted, singing a new song, even praise to God's name.  {17MR 39.1}
[17MR 39.2]          On Sunday afternoon, I spoke to a large and intelligent audience. Many of those present were outsiders. My strength was renewed, and I was able to stand without help before the people. The Lord's blessing rested upon me, and increased strength came to me as I spoke. As on Sabbath, those seeking spiritual help were invited to come forward, and we were glad to see the ready response. I united with Elder Corliss in prayer, and the blessing of the Lord came to me in a special manner. I felt so greatly strengthened that after the meeting I walked to the place where I was staying, a distance of five blocks.  {17MR 39.2}
[17MR 39.3]          Notice was given that I would speak again on Monday afternoon. We found a large company assembled in the church. I presented, verse by verse, part of the second chapter of Colossians. I have read this chapter many times, but it never seemed so impressive and encouraging as on this occasion. Please read this chapter prayerfully and carefully, and the Lord give you understanding. It is a                                            -40-     treasure house of encouragement to the believer.  {17MR 39.3}
[17MR 40.1]          I urged all to receive the rich promises of God, which are so full, so abundant, and so assuring. I dwelt upon the folly of turning from Christ to humanity for help. When Jesus is appreciated we shall see the salvation of God; but when we treat the Saviour indifferently, closing the door against the divine Helper, and look to man for guidance, how can we expect to have power? I tried to show my hearers what Christ is to us, and what we may be to Him as His helping hand.  {17MR 40.1}
[17MR 40.2]         "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." This work has been neglected. If the heart were filled with gratitude, its precious treasure of love and thanksgiving would flow forth to refresh others. Little grievances would not be noticed. Larger difficulties would be met in the spirit of Christ. The heart would go out in prayer to God for patience, perseverance, and forbearance. Then when the enemy came in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord would lift up a standard for tried, tempted souls.  {17MR 40.2}
[17MR 40.3]          We are warned, "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. For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily."  {17MR 40.3}
[17MR 40.4]          God says, "Ye shall seek Me, and find Me, when ye shall search for Me with all your heart" ［Jeremiah 29:13］. There is altogether too little courtesy and reverence shown to God. Those who are serving under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel, who have on their side the heavenly host, should give to the world a bright evidence of the saving power of truth. "Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait                                           -41-     for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately" ［Luke 12:35, 36］.  {17MR 40.4}
[17MR 41.1]         Now, just now, in this day of preparation, may the Lord awaken His people to a true sense of their responsibility. We should have ever-increasing faith and joy in the Lord. Our joy should be proportionate to the greatness of the truth which we claim to believe.  {17MR 41.1}
[17MR 41.2]          I made an earnest appeal to the people to give to the world a correct representation of the great work before us. I urged them not to mar their faith by accepting errors. We may be complete in Him who is the head of all principalities and powers.  {17MR 41.2}
[17MR 41.3]          The Lord gave special victory. The countenances of those present expressed their desire to advance in grace and in the knowledge of the truth.  {17MR 41.3}
[17MR 41.4]          We have every reason to believe that the work carried on in San Francisco by Brother Corliss and his brethren is the work that needs to be done. San Francisco is a center, and must be thoroughly worked. A much more extensive work should be done in this great and wicked city. The message of mercy must be proclaimed in the highways and hedges. All classes must be invited to the banquet provided by the Lord.  {17MR 41.4}
[17MR 41.5]          On Tuesday Brother Pierson drove us to Strawberry Hill, explaining many things of interest along the way as we wound up the ascending grade. Here there are large parks, to which the people can come from the bustle of the city. This is a blessing which all classes are free to enjoy, the poor as well as the wealthy. Here they can see trees and plants and shrubs from every clime, with roses and lilies and pinks and many other flowers. All are free to enjoy these things, but none are permitted to pick the flowers. Should they do this, the beauty of the scenery would soon be no more.                                           -42-  {17MR 41.5}
[17MR 42.1]          I could but be thankful that we had visited this place at a time when the park was not filled with men smoking pipes and cigars and cigarettes. As it was, the few men who were there marred the beauty of the place by smoking, testifying to the curse of being under a vile habit. Tobacco is a slow, but sure poison, which destroys the nerve brain power, rendering the user unable to discriminate between good and evil, righteousness and sin. I thought, Oh, how I wish they knew what harm they are doing to themselves by using tobacco, while at the same time they poison the Lord's free atmosphere, so that others are injured.  {17MR 42.1}
[17MR 42.2]          From the park we went to our vegetarian restaurant in San Francisco, where we received an invitation to take dinner. Here we found in a narrow building tables set to accommodate as many as possible; but many who desired to come in were obliged to turn away. The plain, simple food placed before the guests was fully in accordance with the sign placed in the only window in the room--Vegetarian Restaurant. There was on the table not a particle of meat, poultry, or anything that has animal life, and yet everything was palatable and acceptable. Our party enjoyed the wholesome, substantial food. The neat appearance of the waitresses, with their dark dresses covered with white aprons, was very pleasant.  {17MR 42.2}
[17MR 42.3]          We were very much pleased with our visit to this restaurant. We are glad that an effort is being made to provide those who wish to change their diet with food which is wholesome, nourishing, and palatable. The only things that I regretted on this occasion was the inability of the managers to accommodate many of those who wished to patronize the restaurant. If more of these restaurants could be carried on in San Francisco, what a blessing it would be. By the practical demonstration of how to prepare wholesome, palatable food without the                                           -43-     use of meat, many would learn valuable lessons. They would become acquainted with health principles.  {17MR 42.3}
[17MR 43.1]          I wish that some of those who have means tied up in banks could be led to study the situation and devise means whereby this restaurant could be enlarged, so that it will accommodate more people. It would be a school to our people, who need to learn how to prepare food without using the flesh of dead animals. That which is dead should ever be regarded as unfit for food. We shun the dead bodies of animals, because they are repulsive to us, while at the same time we prepare their flesh for our tables. There is no good reason for our doing this. We should learn that fruits, grains, and vegetables can be so skillfully and tastefully prepared that they will be chosen before any preparation of meat.  {17MR 43.1}
[17MR 43.2]          After dinner we went to the church, where we found a goodly number of people assembled, notwithstanding the fact that it was Christmas day. We praised the Lord that so many were desirous of hearing the truth. I continued my remarks on the second chapter of Colossians, and the Lord gave me freedom. My burden during the meetings of this Week of Prayer has been to impress the people that true service makes believers self-denying and self-sacrificing. They keep in view the need of individual holiness and consecration, that through the sanctification of the truth they may abound in works of benevolence to the uplifting of others.  {17MR 43.2}
[17MR 43.3]          Christ said to the Samaritan woman, "If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. . . . Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but 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." Thus is presented the                                            -44-     experience of the thankful heart. It continually overflows in blessings to others.  {17MR 43.3}
[17MR 44.1]          Paul greatly desired to see the Colossians enjoying to the full the blessings of the gospel. He longed to be with them to speak to them words of encouragement, that their hearts might be comforted, "being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God." The Word of God is full of consolation, and presents great possibilities and advantages, which we should strive to appreciate. Through faith in Christ we may reach the highest standard in Christian perfection.  {17MR 44.1}
[17MR 44.2]          The gospel influences those who receive it to attain to Christian obedience. They are inspired with hope, having that faith which works by love and purifies the soul, making the receiver Christlike in character. As Redeemer and Creator, Christ is the owner of man. He is glorified by the individual service of those who on this earth act as His helping hand.  {17MR 44.2}
[17MR 44.3]          To refuse to obey the requirements of Christ, to fail to devote every capability to His service, is to rob God. He, our Lord and Saviour, calls for the cooperation of every human agency. As they strive to do good and be good, they will be successful in their work of reconciling man to God through Jesus Christ, unto all the riches of the full assurance of understanding.  {17MR 44.3}
[17MR 44.4]          Christianity is not a half-and-half work--a service of God and mammon--but a full conversion to God. Christians have an understanding of spiritual things which unites them with Christ and with one another in love. There is no undecided work about true conversion. It is the work of the Holy Spirit upon human character.  {17MR 44.4}
[17MR 44.5]          The Lord calls for workers who will deny self and follow in His footsteps.                                            -45-     He calls for a faithful tithe, for gifts and offerings, that there may be in His treasury means wherewith to advance His work. Our money is His, and it is to be returned to Him. Christ is the light and life and joy of His people. Because He lives, they shall live also, and when He appears it will be to be glorified in His saints and to be admired in all them that believe.  {17MR 44.5}
[17MR 45.1]          The spirit of liberality came into our meetings, and the offerings in the San Francisco church amounted to between two ［hundred］ and three hundred dollars. I feel very thankful to our heavenly Father for this evidence of the working of His Spirit upon hearts. The mission in San Francisco is self-supporting. Many calls are made upon the people for means to sustain the work in their own borders, yet they do not complain but willingly unite in giving for other parts of the field.  {17MR 45.1}
[17MR 45.2]          Read the eighth chapter of Second Corinthians in the churches, and see if they will not catch the inspiration of liberality. God will help His people to see things in a correct light, and to meet the pressing emergencies which arise in aggressive warfare. As they give liberally of the Lord's entrusted means, they will learn that as they impart they receive. God will give to them that they may give to others.  {17MR 45.2}
[17MR 45.3]          During these meetings in San Francisco we had positive evidence of the presence of the Spirit of God. The Lord came very near to us, and His light shone upon us. Elder Corliss labored very earnestly, though suffering from a severe cold.  {17MR 45.3}
[17MR 45.4]         On Wednesday I left San Francisco for Oakland, where I had promised to spend the last Sabbath and Sunday of the Week of Prayer. On Sabbath I spoke to a company of 600 people in the Oakland church. Through various circumstances I had been brought into a state of exhaustion, and as I looked over the congregation,                                        -46-     and thought of my heart trouble, I feared that I would not be able to make the people hear. I asked them to pray for me. At first the weakness of my voice was apparent, but the Lord heard prayer, and my voice increased in strength.--Ms 1, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 45.4}
[17MR 47.1]       MR No. 1241 - Week of Prayer in San Francisco; Experienced Ministers to Teach Younger Workers; the Importance of Character         Here I am in San Francisco. Two weeks ago Elder Corliss came up to St. Helena and urged me to go to San Francisco and help in the meetings during the Week of Prayer.  {17MR 47.1}
[17MR 47.2]          A few weeks ago I visited this place, and spoke to a church full of people who had ears to hear and hearts to understand. They seemed to be hungering for the word of the Lord, and we believe they heard to a purpose. As I spoke in plain, simple language the word of life, I knew that Christ was with us, softening and subduing hearts. The Holy Spirit was evidently at work. Oh, how my heart yearned for the precious souls whom I was inviting to look and live.  {17MR 47.2}
[17MR 47.3]         After the meeting Elder Corliss invited all who wished to give themselves to Jesus to come forward. There was a quick and happy response, and I was told that nearly 200 people came forward. Men and women, youth and children, pressed into the front seats. This is a work the Lord would have done in every church.  {17MR 47.3}
[17MR 47.4]          Many could not come forward because the house was so crowded, yet the animated countenances and tearful eyes testified to the determination, "I will be on the Lord's side. From this time I will seek earnestly to reach a higher standard."  {17MR 47.4}
[17MR 47.5]          The most earnest efforts should be made to lead the older and younger members of our churches to take hold of the work where they are. The Lord will use all who will give themselves to Him in deed and in truth. The young men and women who give themselves to the work of teaching the truth and laboring for the                                          -48-     conversion of souls should first be vitalized by the Holy Spirit, and then they should go forth without the camp into the most unpromising places. The Lord has not given to those of little experience the work of preaching to the churches. The message is to be proclaimed in the highways and hedges.  {17MR 47.5}
[17MR 48.1]          Where are the men who know how to organize? You are needed just now. Only those who are themselves guided by the great principles of the truth, who have themselves felt the power of the grace of God, can be a blessing to others. These are the ones who can labor for church members who are living in carelessness. Those who on their knees and with the Bible before them seek for a living connection with the Source of all power, will gain an experience which will be of more value to them than gold.  {17MR 48.1}
[17MR 48.2]          Careful management on all points is needed, so that we shall neither run into the fire of fanaticism nor drift into formalism, which will freeze our own souls and the souls of others. We need more of the good, old-fashioned religion which leads a man to walk humbly before God. He who possesses this religion brings into his work an awakened intellect. He grasps the theory of truth, but he does not stop there. He cooperates with God by using in His service all the capabilities and gifts entrusted to him. He spends much time searching the Scriptures and with God in prayer, and divine power comes to him, enabling him to understand the sacred art of saving souls.  {17MR 48.2}
[17MR 48.3]          There is no need of our making continual blunders in the work of the Lord. Ministers need the guiding philosophy which gives them strength to save souls ready to perish. This philosophy is necessary in the work of God, but how little effort is put forth to educate the youth before they go out into God's vineyard. Little genuine zeal is shown in the work of educating and training the inexperienced disciple to seek for souls as they that must give an account.                                           -49-  {17MR 48.3}
[17MR 49.1]          I beseech those who have received the light of truth to do all in their power to carry out the commission given by Christ to His disciples. Let ministers understand that they are to impart that which they receive. Let them remember that their success comes from God, who is always ready to give a fresh supply of grace to the humble and contrite ones. Let them live in the light and love of God, improving the opportunities presented to them, and drawing into the web threads which will help to make the perfect pattern. Each human being is weaving his own web, and each throw of the shuttle helps to decide his own soul's destiny and the souls of others by his consistent, godly life.  {17MR 49.1}
[17MR 49.2]          The church is in great need of purification. There are sins which are unrepented of and unconfessed. The poison of sin must be cleansed from the church. Many have been so deceived, their principles are so corrupted, that they have no pleasure in the word of God, and it has no power over their lives. God will test character. In the day of final judgment, when every man shall be judged according to the deeds he has done in the body, nothing will seem to have existence but character and the law of God. Man will be stripped of everything but the character he has formed. All will be seen to be either righteous or unrighteous.  {17MR 49.2}
[17MR 49.3]          Now pretense and semblance reign in the world. But God's law calls for more than words. An imperative voice says, "By their fruits ye shall know them." God calls for works. Our future happiness depends on our active faith in the Word of God, including His will.  {17MR 49.3}
[17MR 49.4]          Christ created human beings, and then, by a life of suffering and humiliation and a death of agony and shame, He redeemed them from sin. O, sinner, the Saviour endured all this for you. He died that you might be led to see the sinfulness of sin and come unto Him that you might have life.--Ms 3, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 49.4}
[17MR 50.1]       MR No. 1242 - Talented Speakers Needed for Camp Meetings; Business Men to Handle Financial Matters         (REPORT OF A PORTION OF A MEETING OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE CALIFORNIA MEDICAL MISSIONARY AND BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION, HELD IN THE ST. HELENA SANITARIUM LIBRARY, TUESDAY FORENOON, JULY 14, 1902. PRESENT: A. T. JONES, W. C. WHITE, A. N. LOPER, E. E. PARLIN, R. A. BUCHANAN, W. S. SADLER, L. M. BOWEN ［MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE］.)            EARLY IN THE MEETING ELDER SADLER STATED HIS CONVICTION THAT IT WOULD BE BEST FOR HIM TO RESIGN AS PRESIDENT OF THE SAN FRANCISCO MEDICAL MISSIONARY AND BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION, AND REQUESTED THAT ELDER CORLISS BE CHOSEN TO FILL THE PLACE.  {17MR 50.1}
[17MR 50.2]          WHILE THE BOARD WERE CONSIDERING THIS PROPOSITION AND QUESTIONING THE ADVISABILITY OF IT, SISTER WHITE UNEXPECTEDLY CAME IN, ACCOMPANIED BY SISTER J. GOTZIAN.  {17MR 50.2}
[17MR 50.3]         ELDER WHITE STATED THAT THE COMMITTEE HAD BEEN CONSIDERING MATTERS CONNECTED WITH THE SAN FRANCISCO MEDICAL MISSIONARY AND BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION, AND THAT THEY WOULD BE GLAD FOR ANY WORDS OF COUNSEL THAT SISTER WHITE MIGHT GIVE.  {17MR 50.3}
[17MR 50.4]          Sister White asked what special points were under consideration.  {17MR 50.4}
[17MR 50.5]          A. T. JONES: WE WERE CONSIDERING, SISTER WHITE, THE MEDICAL MISSIONARY AND DISPENSARY WORK IN SAN FRANCISCO.  {17MR 50.5}
[17MR 50.6]          SISTER WHITE REMARKED THAT SHE HAD NOT YET BEEN GIVEN ANY DEFINITE POINT ON WHICH TO GIVE COUNSEL. AFTER A SHORT PAUSE, AND WITHOUT WAITING FOR ELDER JONES TO STATE ANY SPECIFIC POINTS, SISTER WHITE SPOKE, AS FOLLOWS:  {17MR 50.6}
[17MR 50.7]          Mrs. E. G. White: My most recent burden has been to make known to our brethren that during the tent meeting season, those who are especially adapted                                           -51-     to labor in camp meetings and other large gatherings are not to be held from these meetings by any city work or local affairs in which they may be interested. In our tent meetings we must have speakers who can make a good impression on the people. The ability of one man, however intelligent this man may be, is insufficient to meet the need. A variety of talents should be brought into these meetings.  {17MR 50.7}
[17MR 51.1]          The medical missionary work is one important phase of the message to present before our brethren and sisters in camp meetings. Our workers should bear a united testimony in regard to this branch of the work. Their words must have the right ring, for all our people should be made familiar with the work that is to be done in this line.  {17MR 51.1}
[17MR 51.2]          A short time ago I understood that the brethren were considering the advisability of inviting Brother Prescott to connect with the Berrien Springs school. But I have been shown that he is to give his entire time neither to editorial work nor to teaching, for over and over again the Lord has revealed to us that our people can be reached best at the camp meetings. We must have the best talent at these meetings.  {17MR 51.2}
[17MR 51.3]          Where is Brother Corliss?  {17MR 51.3}
[17MR 51.4]          A. T. JONES: HE HAS GONE HOME.  {17MR 51.4}
[17MR 51.5]          Mrs. E. G. White: I thought he was not going home.  {17MR 51.5}
[17MR 51.6]          A. T. JONES: HE WENT THIS MORNING.  {17MR 51.6}
[17MR 51.7]          W. C. WHITE: IF YOU SAY WHAT YOU DESIRE HIM TO HEAR, A REPORT OF IT CAN BE SENT TO HIM.  {17MR 51.7}
[17MR 51.8]          Mrs. E. G. White: From the light that I have had, I know that it would be far better for Elder Corliss and for the cause if he would not specify the exact line of work that he is to do. He should understand that we are in need of camp                                         -52-     meeting laborers, and he should hold himself in readiness to be called to these meetings and to give his best thought to them.  {17MR 51.8}
[17MR 52.1]          I do not know when our ministers will learn to let business and financial matters alone. Over and over again I have been shown that this is not the work of the ministry. They are not to be heavily burdened with the details of city work. They are to be in readiness to go to places where an interest has been awakened in the message, and especially to attend our camp meetings. They are not to hover over cities at the time when these meetings are in progress.  {17MR 52.1}
[17MR 52.2]          Camp meetings must be multiplied. Place after place is to be entered. The interests can be divided, meetings being held in more than one place at the same time, if our men of ability are not kept hovering over the cities at the very time when they could reach many people in large tent meetings. This instruction has been repeated over and over again.  {17MR 52.2}
[17MR 52.3]          A. T. JONES: YOU HAVE SOLVED OUR PROBLEM. YOU COULD NOT HAVE SPOKEN ON OUR SUBJECT ANY BETTER IF WE HAD TOLD YOU ALL THAT WE HAVE BEEN TALKING ABOUT THIS MORNING.  {17MR 52.3}
[17MR 52.4]          Mrs. E. G. White: I did not know what you were considering, but this matter was presented to me only recently. I did not feel like mentioning it at the time because I thought it had been repeated so many times before that it was fully understood.  {17MR 52.4}
[17MR 52.5]          A. T. JONES: JUST BEFORE YOU CAME IN WE WERE DISCUSSING WHETHER IT WOULD BE ADVISABLE TO ASSENT IF IT SHOULD BE SUGGESTED THAT BROTHER CORLISS BE PRESIDENT OF THE SAN FRANCISCO MEDICAL MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION, WHICH HAS CHARGE OF THE MEDICAL MISSIONARY WORK IN THAT CITY.  {17MR 52.5}
[17MR 52.6]          Mrs. E. G. White: It would not be according to the light that I have had.                                        -53-     You must find businessmen to fill such positions. If you cannot find them, establish a school to train men to bear these burdens.  {17MR 52.6}
[17MR 53.1]          A. T. JONES: THAT IS THE WAY WE WERE LOOKING AT IT--JUST AS YOUR TESTIMONY HAS INDICATED IT.  {17MR 53.1}
[17MR 53.2]          Mrs. E. G. White: In this country there is a dearth of ministers who can labor acceptably in our large meetings. Australia, too, has very few such men. Many of the workers have left that field.  {17MR 53.2}
[17MR 53.3]          When we have a camp meeting, the principal speakers are not to hurry back to the cities to attend to business matters connected with various lines of our work. Now is our time to give the message to the people. Over and over again I have been shown that camp meetings and open-air meetings should be held in Los Angeles and in various parts of the community round about. Good speakers should now be proclaiming the message in these places. But the work is not to be confined merely to Los Angeles and vicinity. A long line of meetings should be held in many other places. Camp meetings are to be held where the people are.  {17MR 53.3}
[17MR 53.4]          To fasten a minister to one place by giving him the oversight of business matters connected with the work of the church, is not conducive to his spirituality; for it is not according to the Bible plan as outlined in the sixth of Acts. Study this plan, for it is approved of God. Follow the Word.  {17MR 53.4}
[17MR 53.5]          A. T. JONES: WE WERE INCLINING IN JUST THE DIRECTION YOU HAVE SPOKEN--THAT BROTHER CORLISS SHOULD BE AT LIBERTY TO BE USED IN THE FIELD AND IN THE CAMP MEETINGS, ET CETERA, INSTEAD OF BEING FIXED THERE TO THAT LOCAL WORK AS A PRESIDING, LEADING OFFICER.  {17MR 53.5}
[17MR 53.6]          Mrs. E. G. White: I know his constitution. From what has been presented to me over and over again, I know that for a while he will take hold of a line of work enthusiastically, but after a time he wearies of it, and should have a                                          -54-     change. He is not to be held too long in any one place. He should go from place to place, speaking to new congregations. He has done very well in San Francisco, but it is not wisest to keep him over one congregation too long. He has another work to do.  {17MR 53.6}
[17MR 54.1]          A. T. JONES: THAT IS THE WAY WE WERE LOOKING AT IT.  {17MR 54.1}
[17MR 54.2]          Mrs. E. G. White: Such men as Elder Corliss and Elder Prescott can bear a much needed testimony in our large meetings. These men should be freed from local responsibilities in order that they may be able to attend these large gatherings. Camp meetings result in the accomplishment of but little good when the helpers are inefficient. In these meetings we must make the most of every service, presenting the various phases of the message forcibly, in order to make a good impression. We must reach the people soon. The little time yet remaining in which to work is rapidly growing shorter and still shorter.  {17MR 54.2}
[17MR 54.3]          We should secure the best laborers for our camp meetings. These laborers should do personal work with the people. Let them meet the brethren and sisters in little companies for seasons of prayer. After the presentation of the Word in the large tent, let the minister invite those who do not understand the lesson to go into a smaller tent, where he can study the Word with them, dwelling more fully upon the points brought out in the sermon. Thus the camp meetings will be more educational in nature than they now are.  {17MR 54.3}
[17MR 54.4]          One man is not to do all the speaking either for the old or for the young. Varied talents are to be brought into the services, one laborer speaking at one time and another at another time. Especially in the young people's meetings one speaker should not carry the whole burden. Hearts that are closed to the words of one speaker may be touched by the entreaties of another.  {17MR 54.4}
[17MR 54.5]          Brethren, we need to be melted over. We need to be resoldered.                                  -55-  {17MR 54.5}
[17MR 55.1]          A. T. JONES: GOOD!  {17MR 55.1}
[17MR 55.2]          W. C. WHITE: THAT IS WHAT OUR COMMITTEE NEEDS.  {17MR 55.2}
[17MR 55.3]          A. T. JONES: WE APPRECIATE THAT.  {17MR 55.3}
[17MR 55.4]          Mrs. E. G. White: When we are resoldered we are in touch with the Holy Spirit. If we cannot be resoldered we might just as well stop where we are. We must reach a higher standard spiritually.  {17MR 55.4}
[17MR 55.5]          During the time when camp meetings can be held in this conference, two or three meetings in different places should be in progress at the same time. There is a time when these meetings cannot be held; but during the months when we can use the tents to advantage we are not to confine our efforts to the largest cities. We must give the warning message to the people in every place.  {17MR 55.5}
[17MR 55.6]          Even if the outward circumstances seemingly make it difficult to hold the attention of the people, their interest must not be allowed to flag. To maintain an interest we may find it necessary to work very hard, but we should remember that God has entrusted us with a message that we must bear to the people.  {17MR 55.6}
[17MR 55.7]          We must make more of our camp meetings. As ministers, we must teach in the Spirit, as Christ taught in the Spirit. At the time when the features of a camp meeting are the most discouraging, we should strive the most earnestly to bring in a spirit of hope and confidence in God. We are not to falter when the wheels do not seem to be moving as rapidly as Jehu's chariot wheels moved.  {17MR 55.7}
[17MR 55.8]          "Work out your own salvation," we are instructed, "with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure."  {17MR 55.8}
[17MR 55.9]          Instead of choosing the work most pleasing to us, and refusing to do something that our brethren think we should do, we are to inquire, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" Instead of marking out the way that natural inclination                                          -56-     prompts us to follow, we are to pray, "Teach me Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path."--Ms 104, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. April 6, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 55.9}
[17MR 57.1]       MR No. 1243 - Thoughts on Creation and Character Development; Counsel to Seek and Follow God's Guidance         (Written June 24, 1897, from "Sunnyside, Cooranbong, NSW, to "Dear Sister Wessels.")            I learn that you do not feel willing to have your son leave Africa. I heard that he was anxious to leave Africa and establish himself elsewhere, engaging in some missionary work. I understood that he wanted to build a sanitarium in some country where it was needed. We know that a sanitarium is much needed here in Sydney.  {17MR 57.1}
[17MR 57.2]          We feel very sad to think that so much money has been piled up in buildings in Battle Creek. This outlay of means, unadvised by the Lord, has crippled every new missionary field, because the treasury in Battle Creek has been left destitute of means. They could not help us to start the work from the great center because the means was misappropriated. This warning has been given to them over and over again. We cannot obtain means from the center in Battle Creek to advance the work because they have erected so many buildings that the means is not to be had.  {17MR 57.2}
[17MR 57.3]         If your son John is anxious to establish a sanitarium, he could try it here where it is so much needed. A start has already been made, but we cannot obtain suitable buildings by hiring them. From the light the Lord has given me, it is better for your sons to be in some place other than Africa. There are temptations constantly around them that have a tendency to lead them away from Bible principles. The souls of your children are precious to you, and much more precious are they to God, who gave His only begotten Son to redeem them to Himself, to bring in connection with Himself, that they might obtain a                                         -58-     sound, all-round experience, and as the Lord's purchased possession call into exercise the qualifications and endowments God has given them to be used, not merely for selfish purposes but for His own name's glory.  {17MR 57.3}
[17MR 58.1]          The material world is under God's control. The laws that govern all nature are obeyed by nature. Everything speaks and acts the will of the Creator. The clouds, the rain, the dew, the sunshine, the showers, the wind, the storm, all are under the supervision of God, and yield implicit obedience to Him who employs them. The tiny spear of grass bursts its way through the  earth, first the blade, then the ear, and then the full corn in the ear. The Lord uses these, His obedient servants, to do His will. The fruit is first seen in the bud, enclosing the future pear, peach, or apple, and the Lord develops these in their proper season, because they do not resist His working. They do not oppose the order of His arrangements. His works, as seen in the natural world, are not one half comprehended or appreciated. These silent preachers will teach human beings their lessons, if they will only be attentive hearers.  {17MR 58.1}
[17MR 58.2]           Can it be that man, made after the image of God, endowed with the faculties of reason and speech, shall alone be unappreciative of the gifts God has bestowed upon him, and which, if improved, can be enlarged? Shall those who might be elevated and ennobled, fitted to be co-laborers with the greatest Teacher the world ever knew, be content to remain imperfect and incomplete in character, producing disorder when they might become vessels unto honor? Shall the bodies and souls of God's purchased inheritance be so hampered with world-bound habits and unholy practices that they will never reflect the beauty of the character of Him who has done all things well in order that imperfect man, through the grace of Christ, might do all things well, and hear at last Christ's                                         -59-     benediction, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord"?  {17MR 58.2}
[17MR 59.1]           God spoke, and His words created His works in the natural world. God's creation is but a reservoir of means made ready for Him to employ instantly to do His pleasure. Nothing is useless, but the curse has caused tares to be sown by the enemy. Shall rational beings alone cause confusion in our world? Shall we not live to God? Shall we not honor Him? Our God and Saviour is all- wise, all-sufficient. He came to our world that His perfection might be revealed in us.  {17MR 59.1}
[17MR 59.2]          My dear sister, our faith must increase. We must be more like Jesus in conduct and disposition. The light that shines on our path, the truth that commends itself to our intelligence, if obeyed will sanctify and transform the soul, but if disobeyed it will consume us. I see that there is danger on every side. We now have altogether too little time left to use it unprofitably. The knowledge of truth, the heavenly wisdom, spiritual endowments, are heaven's goods committed to us for wise improvement. We have no time or strength or goods to use for selfish purposes. By using God's gifts as sanctified and holy to advance his cause in the world, we can lay up treasure in heaven.  {17MR 59.2}
[17MR 59.3]          I shall not urge your son to come to Sydney, but he can ask wisdom of God, who says He will give liberally to all that ask Him, and upbraid not. But let him ask in faith, nothing doubting, "for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think he shall receive any thing from the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways."  {17MR 59.3}
[17MR 59.4]          If your son will hang his helpless soul on Jesus Christ, and believe in Christ as his personal Saviour, he will know the will of the Lord. Then let him                                           -60-     do what the Lord says. If he feels inclined by the Spirit of the Lord to come to Australia, we will be glad and thankful. Not that we expect that he will invest all that he has here, to be any man's property, but his own. It is not the large gifts we desire.  {17MR 59.4}
[17MR 60.1]          When the Lord gives your son light to go to any place, do not try to stay his steps. Let him hear the voice of the great Shepherd, and follow Him. I have not written to Peter, John, or Philip, to draw means from you, in all the letters you have received. But as Sister Harmon Lindsay, Brother Peter Wessels, and Mother Wessels have means invested here, some as donations, others as a loan, I have had a desire to keep you acquainted with our situation and advancement.  {17MR 60.1}
[17MR 60.2]          If I supposed you thought my letters were written to draw means from you, I would stop my letter writing very decidedly. I do not write because I expect you to send us money, but because I wish to help you with the counsel and the light that God has given me. I do not want John to help us here in Australia if the Lord wants him in any other place. I want God's will and God's way to be my will and my way.  {17MR 60.2}
[17MR 60.3]          May the Lord be your strength, my dear sister. May He be very near to comfort and bless you and your children, and may you be greatly blessed in your children, and be bound up in complete harmony with Jesus Christ, is the prayer of your sister.--Letter 131, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 7, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 60.3}
[17MR 61.1]       MR No. 1244 - A Night of Troubled Sleep; Talented People to be Educated for Missionary Work         (Diary entry written June 18, 1892, in Preston, Melbourne, Victoria.)        Preston, Melbourne, June 18, 1892. The past night was one of great suffering. During the evening I had a coke fire in the grate. I awoke with a sense of suffocation and pressure for breath. I called for help. By mistake all the windows in my room had been left closed. I felt sick all over and very faint, and for a time I lost all sense of things about me. At last May Walling and Emily Campbell came to my help, and every effort was made to give me ease. But I was not entirely relieved for some time.  {17MR 61.1}
[17MR 61.2]          After all had been done that anyone could do, the windows were opened and a screen placed around my bed to prevent the air striking directly upon me. I slept again, a troubled, dangerous sleep. For the next two hours I was wrestling in my sleep to find my way out of a dense wood, to where I could get a free breath of air. When at last I aroused from sleep, I did not come to my proper bearings for some time, yes, for hours. Then I knew that something must be done. I was weak, and my heart pained me. I felt the need of a strong cordial, but there was nothing in the house but grape juice. I took some of this, and it strengthened me, but I was much exhausted.  {17MR 61.2}
[17MR 61.3]         On the Sabbath, all the members of the family excepting myself went to church. During the day I wrote something in regard to missionary work. I felt deeply as I wrote, and my heart went up in prayer to God to set things in order in this country, and to raise up men who have wisdom to recognize the talent                                           -62-     that God has given to many who have accepted the truth. These can be fitted for a place in the work, but they need to be educated and disciplined, that they may know how to use their talents for the spread of the truth and the upbuilding of God's kingdom in the earth.  {17MR 61.3}
[17MR 62.1]          Christ is the greatest missionary our world has ever seen, and I have faith that He will heal me.--Ms 33, 1892, pp. 5, 6.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 7, 1987.  {17MR 62.1}
[17MR 63.1]       MR No. 1245 - The Southern Work; Ellen White Disturbed by Dissension in Councils and Camp Meetings; Study the Word, and Seek Christ         (Written December 2, 1902, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to "Dear Children Edson and Willie White.")            I thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice that my health is as good as it is. I have every reason to praise my heavenly Father for the clearness of thought that He has given me in regard to Bible subjects. I long to bring out these precious things so that the minds of ministers and people may, if possible, be drawn away from contention and strife to something that is nourishing to the soul--food that will give health, hopefulness, and courage. Many are now saying, "Report, and he will report it." Some are greedy for those things that satisfy a depraved spiritual appetite and that will ruin their religious experience, placing them outside the city of God with those who live and make a lie.  {17MR 63.1}
[17MR 63.2]          In the night season many things are passing before me. The Scriptures, full of grace and richness, are presented before me. The word of the Lord to me is: "Look on these things, and meditate on them. You may claim the rich grace of truth, which nourishes the soul. Have naught to do with controversy and dissension and strife, which bring darkness and discouragement to your soul. Truth is clear, pure, savory. Avoid all council meetings where there is dissension, and where men will neither credit My words and obey My lessons nor heed your counsel. Speak the truth in faith and love, leaving the result with God. The work is not yours, but the Lord's. In all your communications, speak as one to whom the Lord has spoken. He is your authority, and He will give you His sustaining grace."                                           -64-  {17MR 63.2}
[17MR 64.1]         My sons, I would have you firmly united as brothers in the flesh and as brothers in Christian fellowship.  {17MR 64.1}
[17MR 64.2]          I have a work to do, and I am now making decisions. I must remain away from conference meetings. I must not attend camp meetings. The spirit of drawing apart, as the result of judging one another, has become so common, and the churches are becoming so leavened with this spirit, that I have no desire to attend these meetings. After returning from them, it is often weeks before I am able to take up my neglected work.  {17MR 64.2}
[17MR 64.3]          Because those in positions of responsibility have for years left the Southern field unworked, notwithstanding the most decided testimonies urging them to take up this work; because they continue to neglect this field and use every manner of device in trying to uproot the confidence of the people in those who have done the hardest and most self-sacrificing work in the South, I have but very little confidence that the Lord is giving these men in positions of responsibility spiritual eyesight and heavenly discernment. I am thrown into perplexity over their course; and I desire now to attend to my special work, to have no part in any of their councils, and to attend no camp-meetings, nigh nor afar off. My mind shall not be dragged into confusion by the tendency they manifest to work directly contrary to the light that God has given me. I am done. I will preserve my God-given intelligence.  {17MR 64.3}
[17MR 64.4]         My voice has been heard in the different conferences and at camp meetings. I must now make a change. I cannot enter the atmosphere of strife and then have to bear testimonies that cost me much more than those to whom they are sent can imagine. When I attend the different meetings, I am compelled to deal with men, standing in responsible places, who I know are not exerting an influence that God can endorse. And when I bear a testimony in reference to their course of                                           -65-     action, advantage is taken of this testimony. These men have not clear understanding. Should I say the things that I know, they would not, with their present experience, use this instruction wisely, and would bring upon me inconceivable burdens.  {17MR 64.4}
[17MR 65.1]          I shall, therefore, leave them to receive word from the Bible, in which the principles upon which they should work are laid down in straight lines.  {17MR 65.1}
[17MR 65.2]          There are those who look upon themselves as the Lord's servants, but who, as shown by the way in which the Southern work has been handled, are working away from the light that God has for years been giving. I have pity for them, but I cannot be forever pointing out for them the way of righteousness. They are brought no nearer right actions by what I say than if the words were never spoken. So long as those in responsible positions see things through a false medium, they will put a wrong construction on my work.  {17MR 65.2}
[17MR 65.3]          The light I have for our ministers is: Seek God; stop your whisperings and your evil surmisings instigated by Satan, and see if the love of God will not fill heart and soul. And I will go on with my writing. This is the light given me, and I shall not depart from it.  {17MR 65.3}
[17MR 65.4]          Let all keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment. Let prayer ascend to God for the Holy Spirit's instruction. Then when it comes, look at yourselves in the great moral looking glass, God's Word, which will always tell you the truth. When God's servants work as laborers together with God out of love for Christ and the souls ready to perish, a very different atmosphere will be brought into our churches. Each man will be found in his place, recognizing the work God has put in his hands to be done for this time.  {17MR 65.4}
[17MR 65.5]          Religion not only improves but beautifies the disposition and the character. Christ must be blended with all our thoughts, our feelings, our affections.                                              -66-     He must be exemplified in the minutest details of everyday service in the work that He has given us to do. When, in the place of leaning upon human understanding or conforming to worldly maxims, we sit at the feet of Jesus, eagerly drinking in His words, learning of Him, and saying, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" our natural independence, our self-confidence, our strong self-will, will be exchanged for a childlike, submissive, teachable spirit. When we are in right relation to God, we shall recognize Christ's authority to direct us and His claim to our unquestioning obedience.--Letter 186, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 7, 1987, Entire Letter.  {17MR 65.5}
[17MR 67.1]       MR No. 1249 - Counsel on Soul Winning; The Need to Crucify Self; The Importance of Character Development         (Written August 24, 1886, from Basle, Switzerland, to "Dear Brethren Engaged in Labor in Nimes" ［France］.)            I feel very grateful for the success you have had, and sincerely hope that you will cling to the work until it is nicely bound off. When the first efforts are made in a place by giving a first course of lectures, there is really greater necessity for a second course than for the first. The truth is new and startling, and the people need to have the same presented the second time, to get the points distinct and ideas fixed in the mind.  {17MR 67.1}
[17MR 67.2]          I have been reading over some of the light God has given me. It is like this: There should be great wisdom used in the presentation of a truth that comes directly in opposition to the opinions and practices of the people. Paul's habit was to dwell upon the prophecies when with the Jewish people and bring them down step by step, and then after some time open the subject of Christ as the true Messiah.  {17MR 67.2}
[17MR 67.3]         I have been shown that our ministers go too rapidly through their subjects and bring the most objectionable features of our faith too early into their effort. There are truths that will not involve so great a cross, that should be kept before their minds day after day and even weeks before the Sabbath and immortality questions are entered into. Then you gain the confidence of the people as being men who have clear, forcible arguments,                                              -68-     and they think you understand the Scriptures. When once the confidence of the people is gained, then it is time enough to introduce the Sabbath and immortality questions. But men who are not wise advance these questions too soon, and thus close the ears of the people, when with greater care and more faith and aptness and wisdom they could have carried them along step by step through the important events in the prophecies and in dwelling upon practical subjects in the teachings of Christ.  {17MR 67.3}
[17MR 68.1]          In efforts made in large cities one half of the effort is lost because they close up the work too soon and go to a new field. Paul labored long in his fields, continuing his work for one year in one place and one year and a half in another place. The haste to close up an effort has frequently resulted in a great loss. Never weary the hearers by long discourses. This is not wise. For many years I have been laboring on this point, seeking to have our brethren sermonize less and devote their time and strength to making important points of truth plain, for every point will be assailed by our opponents. Everyone connected with the work should keep fresh ideas. They should not allow themselves to become merely spectators, but interested workers watching for opportunities to speak with souls, to come close to them by personal, interested efforts. By tact and foresight bring all that is possible into your work to interest your hearers, but avoid long sermons, for they soon weary of this. They want a diversity of labor.  {17MR 68.1}
[17MR 68.2]          The Bible readings are of great advantage, and will do more to fasten the points of truth in the minds than many discourses. But short, plainly made points, avoiding all rambling, will be of the greatest advantage. God would not have you exhaust your energies before you come into the meeting, either in writing or in any other employment, for when you come with a tired                                              -69-     mind you give a very imperfect discourse to the people. Put your freshest energies into the work, and let not the slightest dullness or imperfectness be seen in any of your efforts.  {17MR 68.2}
[17MR 69.1]          If from any cause you are tired and exhausted, for Christ's sake do not attempt to give a discourse. Let another who is not thus exhausted speak, short, to the point, or else have a Bible reading; anything but sickly discourses. These will do less harm where all are believers, but when the truth is to be proclaimed before a people who are not in the faith, the speaker must prepare himself for the task. He must not ramble all through the Bible but give a connected, firm discourse, showing that he understands the points he would make. Put all your energies and soul into the work. But every discourse given when the mind is wearied is an injury to the truth. Things must and will be managed by skillful workmen, rightly dividing the words of life, that the interest will be kept up.  {17MR 69.1}
[17MR 69.2]          A few forcible remarks upon some point of doctrine will fasten in the mind much more firmly than to bring in a mass of matter where nothing lies out clear and distinct in the mind of those ignorant of our faith. There should be interspersed with the prophecies practical lessons of the teachings of Christ. There should ever be the softening, subduing influence of the Spirit of God upon our own heart. The self-denial and the sufferings of Christ should be brought into our labors, and the great love wherewith He has loved us appear in all our efforts.  {17MR 69.2}
[17MR 69.3]          I wish you to distinctly understand this point, that souls are kept from obeying the truth by a confusion of ideas, and also because they do not know how to surrender their wills and their minds to Jesus. They want                                              -70-     special instruction how to become Christians. The work done for Christ in the world is not made of great deeds and wonderful achievements. These will come in as needed. But the most successful work is that which keeps self as much as possible out of sight. It is the work of giving line upon line and precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; coming close in sympathy with human hearts.  {17MR 69.3}
[17MR 70.1]          This is the service done to Jesus Christ that will be recognized at the last day. The worker has not made himself prominent, but ［has］ just picked up the opportunities and privileges to do work for the Master which God alone counts of precious value. The little fillings in, the cup of cold water given, the word spoken in due season, all these count, and yet they have not been treasured up by the actor as any wonderful work "I have done." The labor of love for Christ's sake, if treasured by the giver ends there, for he has all the reward he will ever have. But if he does this work for Christ's sake, thinking not of the matter afterward, angels of God gather up these incidents and cherish them as precious pearls.  {17MR 70.1}
[17MR 70.2]          The gentleness of Christ that is revealed in laboring for souls while self takes no credit, will be rewarded. With God the deeds of all are counted for just what heaven values them, not as they are estimated by the worker. It becomes us to do no more than we can do with order, with thoroughness and exactitude.  {17MR 70.2}
[17MR 70.3]          If our active temperament gathers in a large amount of work that we have not strength nor the grace of Christ to do understandingly and with order and exactitude, everything we undertake shows imperfection, and the work is constantly marred. God is not glorified, however good the motive.                                            -71-     There was a want of wisdom which is too plainly revealed. The worker complains of constantly having too heavy burdens to bear, when God is not pleased with his taking these burdens; and he makes his own life one of worriment and anxiety and weariness, because he will not learn the lessons Christ has given him, to wear His yoke and bear His burdens rather than the yoke and burdens of his own creating. Christ says, "My yoke is easy, . . . My burden is light." Then let every extra burden be left for Jesus, and all the necessary burdens He will also take, and bear them, and us too.  {17MR 70.3}
[17MR 71.1]          God would have us pay heed to His words. The carefully wrought service in the sight of God is of value although easily overlooked by human eyes, yet indispensable in this world where we are doing our work. God wants intelligent workers, doing their work not hurriedly but carefully and thoroughly, always preserving the humility of Jesus. Those who put thought and painstaking into the higher duties should put care and thought into the smaller duties, showing exactitude and diligence.  {17MR 71.1}
[17MR 71.2]          Oh, how much neglected work is done, how much leaving things at loose ends because there is a constant desire to take on greater work. The work is slurred over that relates to the service of God, because they pull so much work before them that there is nothing done thoroughly. But all the work must bear the scrutiny of the Judge of all the earth. The smaller duties connected with the service of the Master assume importance because it is Christ's service. Selfishness and self-esteem should be guarded against as your bitterest enemy. But how easily self finds opportunities to exhibit itself, and how Satan exults at the exhibitions, and how sorrowful and ashamed are the angels of God of man's foolishness. How unlike Jesus Christ;                                            -72-     in what contrast to the example He has given us in His own life. How far removed from His requirements to crucify self, with the affections and lusts.  {17MR 71.2}
[17MR 72.1]          He that will be His disciple, He plainly states, can be so only on condition that he denies self daily, and takes up the cross and follows Him. We are not only to be partakers with Christ in His sufferings and sacrifices, but we are to imitate Him in the daily, small, self-crossings, and the denial of personal inclinations.  {17MR 72.1}
[17MR 72.2]          What will be our feelings when we shall stand on the sea of glass? Shall we look back on the hours of our impatience here? Shall we stand upon the eternal hills of paradise and take in the events of our past life and see how many unnecessary trials we had because we thought God was dependent upon us to do everything? God help us to see our own littleness and God's greatness. God forbid that we should have exalted ideas of our own greatness, and exalt self. Magnitude of experience is no measure of worth. God has a standard so unlike human standards, and if we see God's estimate of us, we would see value where we supposed was littleness, and littleness where we supposed was greatness.  {17MR 72.2}
[17MR 72.3]          It is the long connection with God which makes man of value. The divine principle in the man constantly growing reveals the heavenliness of his character and the value of his association with men. Brethren, you are all of value in the sight of God. He will not forget your labors of love. I would counsel you not to be in haste to move your tent out of Nimes. It may be advisable to change locations and have new congregations, but all the time you are making a second effort, do it just as perfectly as if the first effort had not been made. Let every talent of the workers be put out to the                                            -73-     exchangers. Let everyone do his level best and act an energetic part in the work and service of God.  {17MR 72.3}
[17MR 73.1]          There are different kinds of work to be done. Souls are precious in the sight of God. Educate them. Teach them, as they embrace the truth, how to bear responsibilities. He who sees the end from the beginning, who can make the seeds sown wholly fruitful, will be with you in your efforts. Says Christ, "Without Me ye can do nothing." Let not one discouraged thought or feeling come in. See and sense the value of human souls. Toil for them, knowing you must meet these again. Oh, we have not fully learned the value of Christ or of His work. Work in faith; do your part, and believe the Lord will work with your efforts. God giveth the increase.  {17MR 73.1}
[17MR 73.2]          You may do your work with fidelity, and believe that the Lord will do His work. Never forget that you must reach the people through God. If your experience has been long, it is not its length that makes it valuable; it is not the knowledge that makes it of value; it is the praying, loving, godly life that is a sermon daily. I tell you ［line too dim to read, but probably, "The need"］ of the world today is more Christlike men and women.  {17MR 73.2}
[17MR 73.3]          The preaching the world needs is not only that which comes from the pulpit, but that which is seen in the everyday life; not only Bible precepts, but Christlike characters and heaven-born practices; the living, loving disciples of Jesus who have felt that it was more precious to commune with Jesus than to have the most exalted positions and praise of men; hearts that are daily feeling the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ, that are made strong and tender by inward conflict and secret prayer, and whose lives though humble are eloquent with holy deeds--these are the kind of workers                                            -74-     that will win souls to Jesus. In our ministry we must reveal Christ to the people, for they have heard Christless sermons all their lives.  {17MR 73.3}
[17MR 74.1]          God and Jesus, His beloved Son, must be presented before the people in the wealth of the love they have evidenced for man. In order to break down the barriers of prejudice and impenitence, the love of Christ must have a part in every discourse. Make men to know how much Jesus loves them, and what evidences He has given them of His love. What love can equal that which God has manifested for man by the death of Christ on the cross! When the heart is filled with the love of Jesus, this can be presented to the people and it will affect hearts.  {17MR 74.1}
[17MR 74.2]          Brethren, bring Jesus into your work. Be one in Jesus, of one mind, of one judgment. God will bless you, and you will see of the salvation of Jesus. But let not one exalt himself over another. Work for the Master and do your work in such a manner as not to bring "I" prominent, but each esteem others better than himself. Let Jesus into your heart. Seek to glorify Jesus, not yourself. Oh, self, self, how hard to crucify self; nevertheless self must be crucified, and then Jesus will reveal Himself as a mighty Worker in your midst.--Letter 48, 1886.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Entire Letter.  {17MR 74.2}
[17MR 75.1]       MR No. 1250 - Lessons From Sightseeing in Nimes; The Wilderness Temptations of Christ; Faithful Sabbathkeeping Enjoined         (Written October 18, 1886, from Nimes, France, to "Dear Brother and Sister Foss.")            Although many thousand miles separate us from you, yet we have not forgotten you. I have remembered you in my prayers many times. It was not my choice to come to Europe, but the General Conference urged my coming so earnestly I complied. I am not sorry I have done this, for the Lord has especially blessed me at every step. I have been sustained in a remarkable manner. I have done a great amount of labor and written many pages. I have been here two weeks, have spoken in a hall twelve times and written one hundred pages. I arise at four o'clock, and before the call to breakfast I have written from ten to fifteen pages. I have reason to praise God with heart and lips for His mercy and His sustaining grace.  {17MR 75.1}
[17MR 75.2]          This place is a large place, an ancient place, and there are many things here that make it worthwhile to see. There are the most ancient buildings I have ever looked upon. Elder D. T. Bourdeau is making it his home here with his family and he is laboring among the French here. There are quite a number who have accepted the Sabbath and been converted, some from the Catholics. There are many Catholics in this city of two hundred thousand inhabitants.  {17MR 75.2}
[17MR 75.3]         Here, as in many other cities in Europe, the marketplaces are all open. The marketplace here is a large building where everything like produce is                                          -76-     brought in wagons, on the head, in baskets, and a variety of ways, to sell. It appeared to be anything but Sunday. There were hundreds of stalls where merchandise was displayed. It was a perfect Babel of confusion, men and women crying their goods for sale, and many in number were making their purchases as on other days of the week.  {17MR 75.3}
[17MR 76.1]          In these countries where the Catholic element prevails, the people are the lowest in morals and steeped in ignorance. Sunday is to them a festival, a day for sports, for all kinds of amusements. The people attend the service in church one hour in the day, then their religious observance of the day is at an end. Stores are open all through Nimes as on any of the other days that have no sacredness in their minds attached to them.  {17MR 76.1}
[17MR 76.2]          We visited a building called the "Square House" which had a large portico or piazza in front supported by immense pillars, very much after the style of some courthouses that I have seen. This building was very ancient, and stood in the days of Christ. The barbarians had invaded this city and made much destruction, and this building was buried beneath rubbish, but it has been dug out and stands exactly on the spot where it was built so many hundred years ago.  {17MR 76.2}
[17MR 76.3]          We went into the building, and saw many ancient relics and inscriptions as old as the days of Christ. The yard enclosing this building had many stones with ancient inscriptions piled up all around the building. This building was erected by Augustus Caesar for his sons. It would be a great curiosity for you to pass through these narrow, cobblestone-paved streets and find almost every building is a store or shop of some kind. You enter a dark little room and there are the most valuable goods piled up on shelves                                          -77-     and displayed on counters. There are many bazaars that have all kinds of goods and every conceivable kind of goods, all very cheap.  {17MR 76.3}
[17MR 77.1]          Sabbath I spoke twice in the afternoon and evening. Sunday spoke in the evening to an intelligent audience. Elder Bourdeau interpreted for me. I had much freedom in speaking. Brother Ings is now reporting my discourse.  {17MR 77.1}
[17MR 77.2]          Sunday, after speaking, I was introduced to an evangelical minister, Mr. Gilley. He is preceptor of a school, and one who has acted the most prominent part in building and making an asylum for orphan children and fallen women. Tuesday we called upon Mr. Gilley and had a very pleasant interview. Wednesday he visited us at the home of Elder Bourdeau, by request, and gave me some very interesting facts in reference to the ancient buildings and objects of interest dating back as old as the days of Christ. This was valuable and interesting to me.  {17MR 77.2}
[17MR 77.3]          Thursday, October 21, we held a meeting in the hall in the afternoon. Some could attend at that time who were not able to come in the evening. After I had spoken with freedom for about one hour we called Mr. Gilley, who was at liberty. He favored us with his company, conducting us to an interesting ancient castle and giving us an explanation of many things that attracted our attention on the way. Here it was our work to climb up many granite steps, then a more gradual ascent higher and higher until we reached the remains of the old castle. It had in its day covered a large space of ground, but the stones were estimated of so high value they were removed and used for the material for other buildings.  {17MR 77.3}
[17MR 77.4]          We entered the tower and began to climb the narrow, stone, spiral stairs in the tower until we stood at the top and were richly rewarded for                                      -78-     our toil in the magnificent view which was presented before us. We could overlook Nimes and the olive groves abounding in and about Nimes, presenting a very beautiful picture. I thought, while so high up, of the temptation of Christ when he was beset by Satan. He was placed on the pinnacle of the temple and then invited, and as well taunted, to evidence that He was the Son of God by casting Himself down from the dizzy height. Disguising his true character he quoted Scripture showing that he was not ignorant of the Scriptures: "If Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning Thee: and in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest at any time Thou dash thy foot against a stone." Jesus answered him, "It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."  {17MR 77.4}
[17MR 78.1]          Failing here, "The devil taketh Him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and saith unto Him, All these things will I give Thee, if Thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve."  {17MR 78.1}
[17MR 78.2]          From this eminence we had a broad, extended view, but nothing that was in comparison to the view of the kingdoms of the world spread out before the Son of God in most bewitching loveliness and richness; and sorrow came into our hearts as we were impressed with the fact that many bow down and worship anything and everything but the Lord God who created the heavens and the earth.                                         -79-  {17MR 78.2}
[17MR 79.1]          How many Satan tempts to worship him who yield to the temptation. They do the very things Satan wants them to do, which is to give attention and devotion to those things which separate the mind and heart from God. Beautiful were the kingdoms and their glory spread out like a panorama before the sight of the Son of God. He was tempted in all points like as we are, but the beauty of holiness, the uncorrupted heart, was to be more desired than any of the glitter or tinsel of earthly things.  {17MR 79.1}
[17MR 79.2]          If those who worship God will only place their feet upon one single text of the Bible, and meet Satan with "It is written," they can effectually resist Satan. Wherever you are, be it in Paris, in Nimes, in Constantinople, in Venice or Rome, Babylon or London, place yourself upon the Lord's side. "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil." "As for me and my house," whatever other men may do, whatever they may serve and worship, "we will serve the Lord."  {17MR 79.2}
[17MR 79.3]          The temptation will come. If you keep the Sabbath, the very day the fourth commandment has specified, you shall have to give up this source of gain. You shall have to close your business on Saturday, the busiest and most profitable day in the week. And when you hesitate to comply with a plain "Thus saith the Lord," because you will lose profit, and riches will not increase unto you, you continue in disobedience to God and bow the knee to Satan as he tempted Christ to do.  {17MR 79.3}
[17MR 79.4]          If you gain a loftier place and are in favor with the transgressors of God's law, you may escape some inconvenience and opposition and reproach, but you have bowed the knee and acknowledged Satan's supremacy. You have chosen his way and his will to be your way and your will, but have refused                                       -80-     God's claims and made yourself liable to suffer the penalty of the transgression of His holy law against all disobedience.  {17MR 79.4}
[17MR 80.1]          The impressions made upon my mind upon this occasion will never be effaced. This tower has stood for ages upon a most commanding eminence. Could we only know the history of these ancient buildings, what revelations would be made to us. I appreciated the information given us by Mr. Gilley.  {17MR 80.1}
[17MR 80.2]          October 23, Sabbath. Elder Ings spoke to those assembled, with profit. In the afternoon I talked to the people, and then we had a social meeting, and many good testimonies were borne which were translated to me. There was one converted from Catholicism, some from the Methodist and Baptist ［churches］, and one from a life of dissipation. The testimonies had the true ring. Here were the few who had separated themselves from the many to obey God and serve Him, refusing to worship the prince of this world, for he is the prince of darkness. To be singular for singularity's sake is positively detestable, below the dignity of a Christian, but to be singular because it is necessary to be so as the result of worshiping God and Him only, places Heaven's dignity upon man. We must not be afraid of being singular when duty requires us to be thus to exalt and honor God; and we must bear in mind that the work of Christ is specified. "Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:14).  {17MR 80.2}
[17MR 80.3]          "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. The Lord did not set His love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people" (Deuteronomy 7:6, 7).                                           -81-  {17MR 80.3}
[17MR 81.1]          We must not be afraid of being singular. Do not court singularity for the sake of being odd, but for the sake of avoiding sin and dishonor to God. And in this case we are not to mind even the multitude who are against us. "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil" (Exodus 23:2). Because the law of God is made void in our world, does it make it a virtue to transgress that law? It may appear to the world a very small matter for the Christian to be in harmony with the world by just the act of keeping Sunday for the Sabbath in the place of the seventh day, but God's Word says the seventh day is "My holy day." The man of sin says, "I make a sabbath for you and you must keep the first day of the week."  {17MR 81.1}
[17MR 81.2]          The God-fearing Christian sees that Satan is tempting, "Worship me" and "all these things will I give thee." But naked duty must be chosen. Worship God in obeying His commandments, and ［do］ not bow the knee to the man of sin. Let not Satan's bribe be accepted, but manfully be true to God. Even if the world calls you singular, that which is right in God's sight, do. "He that walketh uprightly walketh surely" (Proverbs 10:9).  {17MR 81.2}
[17MR 81.3]          We thank the Lord that a few have had the moral courage in Nimes to cease to longer transgress the law of God, to accept the light and take their position firmly to keep the Sabbath that God has sanctified and blessed. Let the light shine forth from these few in bright, steady rays, reflecting light upon those who are in darkness. Said Christ to His disciples, "Ye are the light of the world."  {17MR 81.3}
[17MR 81.4]          God has a church. It is not the great cathedral, neither is it the national establishment, neither is it the various denominations; it is the people who love God and keep His commandments. "Where two or three are                                            -82-     gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them." Where Christ is, even among the humble few, this is Christ's church, for the presence of the High and Holy One who inhabiteth eternity can alone constitute a church. Where two or three are present who love and obey the commandments of God, Jesus there presides, let it be in the desolate place of the earth, in the wilderness, in the city, ［or］ enclosed in prison walls. The glory of God has penetrated the prison walls, flooding with glorious beams of heavenly light the darkest dungeon. His saints may suffer, but their sufferings will, like the apostles' of old, spread their faith and win souls to Christ and glorify His holy name. The bitterest opposition expressed by those who hate God's great moral standard of righteousness should not and will not shake the steadfast soul who trusts fully in God.  {17MR 81.4}
[17MR 82.1]          All things shall work together for good to those who love God. "This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments." They that will be doers of the word are building securely, and the tempest and storm of persecution will not shake their foundation, because their souls are rooted to the eternal Rock.  {17MR 82.1}
[17MR 82.2]          Oct. 29. We visited the large establishment for the orphan children and for fallen women.--Letter 108, 1886.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Entire Letter.  {17MR 82.2}
[17MR 83.1]       MR No. 1251 - Complete Victory Possible Through Faith in Christ         (Written July 14, 1908, from Sanitarium, California, to Charles I. Hirschmiller.)            I have read your letter, and I would say to you, Look not at your sinful life, for there is no hope to be found in doing this. Look to your crucified Redeemer. He assumed human nature, and was tempted in all points like man is tempted, that we might know how to meet the foe. He waits to impart to each member of the human family power to become a partaker of the divine nature, power to overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. ［John 3:14-18, quoted.］  {17MR 83.1}
[17MR 83.2]          You can see from these Scriptures that it is no virtue in anyone to be faithless. The Son of God came to save to the uttermost all who would come unto God by Him. Though your sins are as scarlet, yet if you will come to Christ confessing your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive you your sins, and to cleanse you from all unrighteousness. Will you not exercise faith in the one upon whom the Lord has laid all power? "The Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: that all men should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He that honoreth not the Son honoreth not the Father which hath sent Him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." ［John 5:22-24］.  {17MR 83.2}
[17MR 83.3]          For days I have been in a condition of weakness and suffering, but I am aroused to write and tell you that you have a full and complete Saviour. I am                                            -84-     instructed to say to you, Look unto Jesus, who gave His precious life for you. You have a part to act. You must come to the Saviour just as you are; you must come believing His word and claiming His saving grace. This is your only remedy--belief in the sacrifice that has been made in your behalf.  {17MR 83.3}
[17MR 84.1]          My brother, if you will grasp the words of Christ, you will stand on vantage ground. Plant your hopes on the assurances of the Word. Whatever may be your faults, whatever sins you may have committed, you are to have more faith in the word of God than in fasting or any other act you can perform. Accept a "Thus saith the Lord," believing His word, and trusting it fully.  {17MR 84.1}
[17MR 84.2]          Do not depend on the state of your feelings for assurance that you are a child of God. You are to work out the sum of your belief. Bear in mind that the Lord Jesus is your efficiency. It is your privilege to become meek and lowly in heart as you study the life of Him who is the author and finisher of your faith.  {17MR 84.2}
[17MR 84.3]          Ever remember that God has a people prepared for His name. There are victories for you to gain, and these you are to have through your faith in Christ. When you feel discouraged, disappointed, go to God in prayer. Trust in Him, and do His will. All the fasting in the world will not take the place of simple trust in the word of God. "Ask," He says, "and ye shall receive."  {17MR 84.3}
[17MR 84.4]          God is a very present help in time of need. If you will put your trust in Him, He will make His goodness pass before you; He will lead you by His counsel. His Holy Spirit, His providences, the teachings of His Word--all will be agencies in instructing you and leading you in the way of the Lord. God's promise to you is, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" ［Hebrews 13:5］.                                            -85-     Therefore you may say with humility, yet with firm confidence, "This God is my God forever and ever."  {17MR 84.4}
[17MR 85.1]          I am instructed to say to you, "Trust not in self, but trust in God. This is the measure by which we are judged in the sight of heaven--our faith in God. Seek earnestly to work the works of God. Ever maintain the simplicity of true godliness. "He that sinneth against Me," God says, "wrongeth His own soul" ［Proverbs 8:36］. Study the Scriptures, for there is nothing that will so firmly establish your faith in God or your belief in His truth, as this. If you will have faith in God, you cannot fail of coming out victorious.  {17MR 85.1}
[17MR 85.2]          Do not speak of trials and discouragements. Look away from these things to Christ. "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" ［John 1:29］. You are the purchase of His blood. Do not disappoint the One who gave His life that you might be an overcomer. He was tempted on every point that you and I can be tempted on, and in order to resist He spent whole nights in prayer and communion with his Father. Christ did not leave this world until He had made it possible for every soul to live a life of perfect faith and obedience, to have a perfect character.  {17MR 85.2}
[17MR 85.3]          Christ has made it possible for you to practice His life. You have His precious words in the Bible; believe in them, carry out their teachings. Never doubt the word of God. This word, if received into your life, will refine and sanctify you, and increase your usefulness. It is your privilege to help those who need help, to speak words of encouragement to those who need encouragement. Bear in mind that you are to show to the world the light of the glory of God.  {17MR 85.3}
[17MR 85.4]          "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in                                          -86-     every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" ［Philippians 4:4-7］.  {17MR 85.4}
[17MR 86.1]          You are not called upon to fast forty days. The Lord bore that fast for you in the wilderness of temptation. There would be no virtue in such a fast; but there is virtue in the blood of Christ. Will you not believe that there is power in His sacrifice to purify and refine you, power in His grace to make you a laborer together with God?--Letter 206, 1908.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 7, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 86.1}
[17MR 87.1]       MR No. 1252 - Safety in Counseling Together         (Written January 3, 1901, from St. Helena, California, to Dr. E. R. Caro, in Sydney, Australia.)        I have before me a letter expressing the same opinion that you have expressed that the Newcastle Bath business should not be taken over by the Cooranbong Retreat, but should remain under the control of the Sydney Sanitarium.  {17MR 87.1}
[17MR 87.2]          In saying that the Retreat should take over the Newcastle work I have followed the light given me. The proposition that the Sydney Sanitarium should control the Newcastle work is not in the order of God. Were this proposition followed the work in Newcastle would be bound about. You should not seek to take this extra responsibility. You have not been appointed to act as a manager, but as a physician. You are not to feel that you are qualified to manage all the Sanitariums which may be established in Australia. This is not in the order of God. You are to counsel with the officers of the Union Conference.  {17MR 87.2}
[17MR 87.3]          You should not feel authorized to follow your own judgment alone in choosing persons to fill positions in the Retreat or the Sanitarium, for you are not the best judge. You fail to read character aright.  {17MR 87.3}
[17MR 87.4]          You have asked me in regard to your mother coming to New South Wales to take part in the work. I respect and love your mother too well to advise her to do this. She cannot read character or deal safely with human minds.  {17MR 87.4}
[17MR 87.5]          You cannot be depended on as a safe judge of people. You would suppose certain persons fitted to fill certain positions, when older and more experienced                                        -88-     men would read beneath the surface and see that if these persons should be placed in these positions they would either prove inefficient, or would influence others in a way that would bring about results difficult to counteract.  {17MR 87.5}
[17MR 88.1]          In your trips through the Colonies you see certain persons whom you suppose to be just the ones for certain positions. But do not call any such person to fill a position until you have talked the matter over with experienced counselors. The Lord has men who have an understanding of the work, and with these you should counsel.  {17MR 88.1}
[17MR 88.2]          Lay your plans before the men who have carried responsibilities in the work in Australia. This will bring you peace and rest. You and Brother Sharp need to counsel with those who have had an experience in cultivation of land and in dealing with human minds, who can better judge of people and their qualifications than it is possible for you to do. Be cautious, Dr. Caro. Do not feel at liberty to move independently, as you have sometimes done in the past, to your own hurt and to the injury of the cause of God. There is safety in counseling together.  {17MR 88.2}
[17MR 88.3]          I think that this has been presented to you again and again. Again I am instructed to repeat to you: A wrong order to things must not be brought into the institutions erected at so great a cost of money, anxiety and care. In no case is the work in medical missionary lines which God has outlined to be done in Australia to be left for you to manage, for you have not the qualifications which would fit you for this work. The work of a physician is enough for any man to carry.  {17MR 88.3}
[17MR 88.4]          God has given us men who are fitted to act as managers who have had experience in this line and who are men of prayer, men who study the Word and who will, when given a chance, do the work that God has appointed them. Those                                        -89-     who are appointed to act as managers in our institutions must be men who will consult their brethren. The very evidence given that one man or two men feel that all the responsibility devolves on them is the sure sign they are not qualified for the work and cannot discern how much is pending. They must be men who will watch unto prayer. God will use men who walk humbly before Him, who keep His fear before them, and who tremble at His word. But self-confidence, if encouraged, will lead to disastrous results.  {17MR 88.4}
[17MR 89.1]          Christ's prayer for His disciples, "For their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth" ［John 17:19］ has been left on record for us. You need to realize that you have much to learn, that you need a higher, holier sanctification of soul, body, and spirit before you can be a leader. There is great need for you to walk in humility of mind. Do not lay plans in accordance with your own wisdom. Thus you will imperil the cause and hinder its advancement.  {17MR 89.1}
[17MR 89.2]          He who assumes the grave responsibilities of a physician needs to take counsel with God and with his older and more experienced brethren. Unless he walks in the light, keeping his soul purified, elevated, and ennobled through the truth, he will reap the consequence of failing to understand his own strength and his need of gaining his reputation by the sanctifying, glorious power of the truth.  {17MR 89.2}
[17MR 89.3]         No one can transgress God's laws without suffering the consequence. God calls upon physicians to walk before Him in truth and righteousness. He will cooperate with all who do this. But when a physician trusts in his own sharpness, Satan leads him into strange paths, where the footsteps of Christ are not seen.                                        -90-  {17MR 89.3}
[17MR 90.1]          God will work with every Christian physician. And to Him the physician is to give the honor and glory for the success that attends his work. The only safety for physicians is in walking and working in humility and faith. The physician who does not put his trust in God will use his profession to hide many unrighteous deeds.  {17MR 90.1}
[17MR 90.2]          You must not suppose that because the patients at the Sanitarium have your instruction in regard to present truth they do not need the help of God's delegated ministers, whom the Lord has used and will still use to do His work. You have not as deep a knowledge of the Scriptures as you should have because you have not made the work of God your first consideration. If the work of ripening off the people of God were left in your hands many would bear the impress of half-done, superficial work.  {17MR 90.2}
[17MR 90.3]          You are wholly dependent upon the great Physician for the ability and power to do good work. Cling to Jesus. He will give you sharpness of intellect to discern with readiness, and steadiness of nerve to execute with precision.  {17MR 90.3}
[17MR 90.4]          I write you this but I have not liberty, at the present time, to say all that I might say. Will you read the article entitled, "Responsibilities of Physicians," found in Testimony No. 32, p. 198? Read this through carefully and follow the instruction it contains.  {17MR 90.4}
[17MR 90.5]          My much-beloved brother, you need to realize that in some respects your ideas are contrary to the lessons God has given in His Word. Our Saviour has left us all an example of self-denial and self-sacrifice. But this lesson you have not learned by experience. You have carried out your own ideas and plans, to the injury of the work. This God has opened before me and I dare not withhold.                                          -91-  {17MR 90.5}
[17MR 91.1]          During your experience in Sydney as a physician your example has not always been correct. You established yourself in an expensive house. Why? To make such a display that people would think you a wonderfully successful, popular physician. Having started in this way, everything else must correspond.  {17MR 91.1}
[17MR 91.2]          While you were at Ann Arbor you gained wrong ideas in this respect. It would have been better if those sent from our schools to Ann Arbor had never had any connection with that institution. The education in drug medication and the false religious theories have brought forth a class of practitioners who need to unlearn much they have learned. They need to obtain an altogether different experience before they can say in word and in deed, We are medical missionaries. Till they obtain such an experience, the great Physician does not acknowledge them as medical missionaries. They come onto the platform of action unprepared for the high and holy work which needs to be done at this time.  {17MR 91.2}
[17MR 91.3]          The Lord has placed you in a position where you can bear responsibilities, if you have that wisdom gained from on high by most earnest prayer and humility of soul. God will hear your supplications if you will seek Him earnestly. You have at times made some excellent movements. But again, you are in danger, by your impressions and prejudices, of creating difficulties hard to remedy. Link up with men older and more experienced than yourself, men who can give you advice and counsel, even if you are a physician. Do not feel that it is your work to manage the sanitariums which may be established in Australia. When you reveal by your life and influence that you consider, that you ask wisdom of God, that you have gained an experience different from the experience which you have had in the past, you will be a man who can be depended on in emergencies.  {17MR 91.3}
[17MR 91.4]          I am very anxious that you shall not feel that God has given you the work of a director. You are a physician, not a manager. It is possible for a                                           -92-     physician to assume far more responsibility than he should. Do not cast aside my words as of no consequence, as some physicians have done. Remember that a refusal to receive light does not alter facts. The truth will stand and will be vindicated. I hope and pray that you will link up with your brethren. Never feel that it is your prerogative to disparage the ministers of the gospel and exalt physicians as infallible. This has been done repeatedly. God help you to avoid this fatal mistake.  {17MR 91.4}
[17MR 92.1]          The words that some have spoken against the chosen ministers of God have been spoken against Christ. The sarcastic references made by physicians to those ministers who did not entertain the same ideas as they themselves with reference to the so-called medical missionary work, have had their influence. God will work in His own time and His own way to counteract the leaven that has thus been introduced; but at what a cost has this influence been exerted! The effect of this influence will not be fully known until the judgment sits and the books are opened. Then it will be seen that souls who might have stood firm as overcomers were confused and led into crooked paths by physicians.  {17MR 92.1}
[17MR 92.2]          The sacred truth for this time has been covered with disrespectful statements. Principles have been presented which are entirely contrary to the teaching of Christ. Statements have been made which have confused minds with regard to the truth of God's word, and some will never disentangle themselves from the seductive error into which they have fallen. They will never see the true bearing of the last closing message. Their influence is lost to the cause at the very time that it is most needed.  {17MR 92.2}
[17MR 92.3]          God has given His people talents to use and improve. He desires them, by cooperation with Him, to grow up into the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. Through the testimonies which He has been given to His people, He                                           -93-     has presented truth line upon line. Many rejoiced in the light, but Satan came in, and working through the mis-named medical missionary work, he led them to cast under their feet the work of presenting the truth as it is in Jesus.  {17MR 92.3}
[17MR 93.1]          The work of God is a great work. Wise men are needed to keep Bible principles free from a particle of worldly policy. Every worker is being tested. Paul speaks of those who bring to the foundation wood, hay, and stubble. This represents those who bring in as truth that which is not truth, even their own suppositions and fabrications. If these souls are saved it will be as by fire, because they conscientiously thought they were working in harmony with the Word. They will only be as brands snatched out of the burning.  {17MR 93.1}
[17MR 93.2]          The work which might have been pure, elevated, and noble, has been mingled with fallacies brought in by men. Thus the beauty of the truth has been marred. Nothing stands forth untainted by selfishness. The mingling of these fallacies with the work of God makes that which should stand out clearly and distinctly before the world a jumble of conflicting principles in its practical working.  {17MR 93.2}
[17MR 93.3]          Oh, how many there are who have yet to learn to manifest Christlike patience and forbearance in the home and in the church! What is the lesson that should be learned by those connected with our schools, our publishing houses, our sanitariums? "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves" ［Philippians 2:3］. "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another" ［Romans 12:10］.  {17MR 93.3}
[17MR 93.4]          My brother, when will you learn this lesson! It is not houses, lands, carriages, expensive furniture, outward display, which make a man stand high in the sight of a holy God and the ministering angels. God looks at the heart. He reads every purpose of the mind. He knows the motives which prompt to action.                                           -94-     He reads between every line of writing sent out. He can distinguish between the true and the false. He places His seal upon the deeds that are done and the books that are written in humility and contrition of heart. He values sincerity and purity of principle above everything else.--Letter 3, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. May 7, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 93.4}
[17MR 95.1]       MR No. 1253 - William Foy Lectures in Beethoven Hall         (From an interview with Ellen White, conducted by D. E. Robinson on August 13, 1906, apparently regarding material that was to be included in a book.)            We used to have some very powerful meetings. But it is not all out there, and I don't know as there is any need of putting it out.  {17MR 95.1}
[17MR 95.2]          Elder Stockman was preaching, and he was dying with the consumption. He talked as though inspired by the Holy Spirit, feeble as he was. I always sat on the front seat next to the stand, and as I heard a noise like a groan I saw that Elder Brown was as white as human flesh could be, and he was falling out of his chair. I suppose my interested look to him called the attention of Stockman, and he looked around, and he ［Brown］ was ready to fall on the floor. He ［Stockman］ turned around, and said, "Excuse me," and took him in his arms, and laid him down on the lounge. He was one that did not believe in these things, and he had a taste of it right there. The power of the truth came upon him so.  {17MR 95.2}
[17MR 95.3]          (That was one instance I saw that Marian ［Davis］ had not put in. There is but an item now and then; I do not know as that is essential. I was going to call the attention to it. That is, I think, as well as it could be written. We had a great deal of this, but we never can tell it.) . . .  {17MR 95.3}
[17MR 95.4]          Then another time, there was Foy that had had visions. He had had four visions. He was in a large congregation, very large. He fell right to the floor. I do not know what they were doing in there, whether they were                                          -96-     listening to preaching or not. But at any rate he fell to the floor. I do not know how long he was ［down］--about three quarters of a hour, I think-- and he had all these ［visions］ before I had them. They were written out and published, and it is queer that I cannot find them in any of my books. But we have moved so many times. He had four.  {17MR 95.4}
[17MR 96.1]          Question: Did you ever have an interview with him?  {17MR 96.1}
[17MR 96.2]          I had an interview with him. He wanted to see me, and I talked with him a little. They had appointed for me to speak that night, and I did not know that he was there. I did not know at first that he was there. While I was talking I heard a shout, and he is a great, tall man, and the roof was rather low, and he jumped right up and down, and oh, he praised the Lord, praised the Lord. It was just what he had seen, just what he had seen. But they extolled him so I think it hurt him, and I do not know what became of him.  {17MR 96.2}
[17MR 96.3]          His wife was so anxious. She sat looking at him, so that it disturbed him. "Now," said he, "you must not get where you can look at me when I am speaking." He had on an episcopalian robe. His wife sat by the side of me. She kept moving about and putting her head behind me. What does she keep moving about so for? We found out when he came to his wife. "I did as you told me to," said she. "I hid myself. I did as you told me to." (So that he should not see her face.) She would be so anxious, repeating the words right after him with her lips. After the meeting was ended, and he came to look her up, she said to him, "I hid myself. You didn't see me." He was a very tall man, slightly colored. But it was remarkable ［the］ testimonies that he bore.                                          -97-  {17MR 96.3}
[17MR 97.1]          I always sat right close by the stand. I know what I sat there for now. It hurt me to breathe, and with the breaths all around me I knew I could breathe easier right by the stand, so I always took my station.  {17MR 97.1}
[17MR 97.2]          Question: Then you attended the lectures that Mr. Foy gave?  {17MR 97.2}
[17MR 97.3]          He came to give it right to the hall, in the great hall where we attended, Beethoven Hall. That was quite a little time after the visions. It was in Portland, Maine. We went over to Cape Elizabeth to hear him lecture. Father always took me with him when we went, and he would be going in a sleigh, and he would invite me to get in, and I would ride with them. That was before I got any way acquainted with him.  {17MR 97.3}
[17MR 97.4]          Question: Where did you see him first?  {17MR 97.4}
[17MR 97.5]          It was there, at Beethoven Hall. They lived near the bridge where we went over to Cape Elizabeth, the family did.--Ms 131, 1906, pp. 1, 4-6.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 4, 1987.  {17MR 97.5}
[17MR 98.1]       MR No. 1255 - Church Leaders to Set an Example of Christlikeness         (Written April 13, 1886, from Basel, Switzerland, to J. G. Matteson.)        Your letter was received yesterday. You state in your letter, "Your mother speaks of Brother Hanson as a transgressor of the Sabbath. I suppose you know that Brother Hanson is not a member of the church, consequently we cannot labor with him or cut him off, because he is already cut off by his own positive request."  {17MR 98.1}
[17MR 98.2]          He places himself outside of the pale of the church where he cannot be brought under the discipline of the church, and yet he has a voice in the church as if he belonged to the church. I cannot see the consistency of this and know that this move is all out of God's order. It shows blind, hazardous movements; it is giving influence to a man who refuses to be in harmony with the church, and through this one man whose way is after the world and not after the Lord's plans Satan comes in to control other minds. Then how could you or any members of the church, if they stood in the light, place him on a committee?  {17MR 98.2}
[17MR 98.3]          You state, "I do not know whether he will make an application for admittance. If he should do so he would have to take a better stand than he has ever done yet." My brother, notwithstanding this attitude of Brother H who has cut himself loose from the church, he is made one of the committee of your board to have influence in the matters of the church, and you have allowed this thing done. Strange foresight! ［You place on the committee］ a man who does not keep the Sabbath, for he does do business on the Sabbath--collects debts, pays his workmen, settles accounts, and has no more sacred sense of the Sabbath than to                                          -99-     keep it when convenient and transgress it when it is convenient for his own interest.  {17MR 98.3}
[17MR 99.1]          I know that God cannot approve of your connecting Brother Hanson with a committee or giving him any trust while he has cut himself loose from the church and stands dishonoring God in his business matters. It shows that the man has not true and sacred ideas of holy things, and you are fastening him in a fatal deception in thus treating his case. My brother, you have done more to keep him in this position of blindness than any other man could do. You have in your attitude said to the sinner, "It shall be well with you." You say you could not labor with him or turn him out because he is not in the church, yet you have linked up with him and showed your preference for him and made him your confidant and counsellor. He has upheld you and you have upheld him, and God is dishonored by you both.  {17MR 99.1}
[17MR 99.2]          ［Ezekiel 3:17-22, quoted.］ These solemn words speak to you and me. I have to bear the plain notes of warning from God. I must not suffer my brother to continue in sin. ［I must warn him of］ his danger. I must tell him "the wages of sin is death." God has said it. "Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sin" ［Isaiah 58:1］. Here, my brother, is a work that you have not done as you should have done. And why? Because your own soul was not right before God. ［Following line illegible.］  {17MR 99.2}
[17MR 99.3]         My brother, had you felt the necessity of preaching the lessons of true Christianity yourself, and of taking J. G. Matteson under strict discipline, then you could have seen and felt the necessity of instructing others. When you do not reach the standard yourself, how can you bring others up? When I see the people in Christiania and other places regarding you in the light they do, as                                          -100-     though you were almost as Christ, and then know how far short you come of practical godliness, I am distressed beyond measure. A man who has ability as you have, and with your entrusted talents, is far more accountable than those who have less light and less ability. Your position, then--what you have done or may do--will be no excuse in your case for not reaching the Bible standard in Christian character. You need daily the transforming grace of Christ on your heart or you cannot do the work of God with clear spiritual discernment, with an eye single to His glory.  {17MR 99.3}
[17MR 100.1]          From time to time God has seen fit to open before me your life, your temperament, your character, and I must say to you that you have a work to do for yourself before you can be admitted to become a member of the Lord's family in the heavenly courts. Sin is sin, whether it is in J. G. Matteson or in the man of lowly position. You are not right with God. A man in God's eye is just what he is in his own family. The converting power of God will be seen in his home. You should have had a testimony to bear to individuals and families in the Spirit of Christ, and ［should have had］ a love for their souls that would have placed you among the faithful watchmen, but, I feel compelled to say, you are not there now. You must set your own heart in order. You have a work to do for yourself which no other can do for you, to overcome your pettish spirit and to cleanse the soul temple of its defilement.  {17MR 100.1}
[17MR 100.2]          When you see yourself as God sees you, you will possess genuine humility, not humility put on for special occasions but a principle that is abiding. You cannot be clear before God and prepared for His appearing unless you put away every wrong from you. It will be a most difficult lesson for you to learn true humility. While you appear to be at times very humble, there is a self-esteem, a self-devotion, a high opinion of yourself which leads to dangers that you do                                          -101-     not discern. You are not ready for Christ's appearing, and unless you are a changed man in heart and in character, in manner, in deportment, you cannot be a true watchman on the walls of Zion. There is earnest work before you. You must be a different man.  {17MR 100.2}
[17MR 101.1]          While it is duty for the watchmen to be wide-awake, faithful to discern evil, and understanding the necessities of the cause and work of God, they will frequently be called to bear a plain, pointed testimony to individuals who are in danger. Their testimony must not be given in an impatient spirit, not in an overbearing spirit, not with a domineering spirit, but with the spirit and meekness of Christ. There are two extremes to be avoided: one is the shunning to declare the whole counsel of God, and running into the spirit of revivalists in this age of crying "peace, peace, when there is no peace," and weaving into the labors an element which moves the feelings but leaves the heart unchanged. A sensational religion is to be dreaded, for it is hard work, when once it has been woven into the experience, to ever make the individuals feel that they must go deeper than mere emotional exercise; that they must practice true godliness.  {17MR 101.1}
[17MR 101.2]          My brother, you have been weaving into your labors this kind of element. While evils have been growing and gaining the mastery, you have fastened many to J. G. Matteson but not to the cross of Jesus Christ. Now, I am alarmed for you because I was shown that you have unbounded confidence in yourself and your manner of labors. You have not laid the ax at the root of the tree, and various kinds of evils have been springing up that needed to be rooted out from the church, with judicious labors and with far-seeing judgment.  {17MR 101.2}
[17MR 101.3]          The very work that needed to be done has not been done. Your ways appear right in your own eyes, but not so in the eyes of the Lord. The truth of God may be proclaimed from the lips while it has not a sanctifying influence upon                                          -102-     the heart and character, having a constraining power upon the man. The thoughts, the affections, are engrossed by worthless, revolting things, and the heart is defiled. The salvation of the soul will not be secured without a deeper work. Your supreme love and confidence in yourself must be broken up in some way, or you will be weighed in the balance and found wanting. Your conscience feels the power of the truth; you work earnestly to present the truth; and for this reason I feel so bad because I know that unless you are an overcomer, you will not have the overcomer's reward.  {17MR 101.3}
[17MR 102.1]          You lack the very experience you need to make you what God would have you to be. You need to study the law of God. Look in the mirror; bring your own heart to its searching, far-reaching principles, and go not away and forget what manner of man was presented to you in that mirror. I have not much hope for the church ［members］ unless the very ones who labor for them are converted men and Christlike in character. I am pained to write you these things. I hoped I should not have to write them. Search and see if self is not idolized. You must cleanse the soul temple.  {17MR 102.1}
[17MR 102.2]          The second extreme is to be always hammering at the people and in a harsh, unChristlike manner talking in a way that they think you are provoked, weaving self into your labors in the place of learning lessons of Jesus and having His Spirit. Now, my brother, whatever you have done or may do, I feel burdened with the word of the Lord. The Lord says to you as to Nicodemus, "Unless ye are born again, ye can never see the kingdom of God." The truth has been accepted and preached by you, but the heart has not been cleansed of its moral defilement. You need the divine impression on your character.  {17MR 102.2}
[17MR 102.3]          There are men like Brother Hanson who are not controllable by the Spirit of God, who are harsh in their families, dictatorial, severe, and overbearing. If                                         -103-     you were a thoroughly converted man and a daily learner in the school of Christ, a man to put away your childish, babyish feelings and manners at home, and put on meekness, gentleness, kindness, forbearance, and long-suffering, then you would be prepared to give instruction to those who need it.  {17MR 102.3}
[17MR 103.1]          You have so little self-control that when you read these words I greatly fear you will act like a child that when reproved or corrected will throw itself down. "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you." While you are desirous to appear right with your brethren, do, for Christ's sake, surrender your soul to God. The truth is kept far away from the center of your being; ［remainder of line illegible］. This is an individual work. I was shown while in America the condition of the churches in the kingdoms that had your labor. Many precious souls had been raised up, but they were receiving a mold that would not tend to make them perfect and entire, wanting nothing.  {17MR 103.1}
[17MR 103.2]          One of the most earnest prayers in the Bible is, "Create in me a clean heart." Oh, will men in any position, as superiors, inferiors, or equals learn the simple lesson to begin at the beginning and have the heart right with God through the new, creating power of His Holy Spirit. Then what pure streams would flow forth from a pure fountain. How precious the experience, how precious the lessons that they have learned, and can, in their turn, teach others. But if they have not reached the standard themselves, how can they teach others to reach it?  {17MR 103.2}
[17MR 103.3]          The church ［members］ must be refined, purified. Better if they had never connected themselves with the truth than to claim to believe it, take the name of Seventh-day Adventists, and yet not stand as high in the scale of morality and practical godliness as do many who have never seen the truth. Thus Christ                                           -104-     and the truth are misrepresented, the world is encouraged in their unbelief, ［and］ other churches do not care to examine the evidences of doctrine and faith that bear such fruit.  {17MR 103.3}
[17MR 104.1]          The example of men and women professing the truth is of such a character that it works against the truth. They are holding the truth in unrighteousness, because they are destitute of the first principles of Christianity exemplified in the life. Hearts are buried up in worldliness, saturated with that which is earthly, sensual, cut off by their own course of action from communion with God, dead to holiness, twice dead, plucked up by the roots.  {17MR 104.1}
[17MR 104.2]          Now, you can never cure these evils till you see the necessity of subduing and controlling J. G. Matteson. The truth must be planted deep in your own soul first, and then in the souls of others. I want you to be a conqueror; God wants you to be a conqueror; but you are far from this today. You need to be busy and earnest with your own soul. A solemn message is to be given to the world, and you are standing directly in the way of our reaching the hearts of many because all their experience and all their religion centers in their high estimate of yourself. No one can ask you to labor more than you do; but you must have a living connection with God so that you will have His grace to be with you. You must bring religion into your home; religion must regulate your life. The truth must sanctify your words, your thoughts, and your actions. Your faith must produce beauty of soul that will be manifested ［in］ words and actions, else it will be as sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal.  {17MR 104.2}
[17MR 104.3]          When you are sanctified through the truth, you will be a Christian-- patient, kind. You have an overbearing temperament. You hold yourself too high, and others hold you too high; therefore anything you may do looks right in the eyes of others, but they do not look into the soul. The great Searcher of                                           -105-     hearts says, "I know thy works." Your heart needs to be humbled before God. You need to be very jealous of yourself. You have made acknowledgment of your errors at different times in your experience, but you have not put them away. You have not seen the sinfulness of many thoughts or the offensive character of your works before God. As a faithful watchman, I see the danger, if you die as you are, of your losing your soul; therefore I warn you.  {17MR 104.3}
[17MR 105.1]          Now, my brother, I have not thrown you aside; I have not lost my interest in you; but I do urge upon you to face the mirror. Sin is offensive to God. We must live so near to Jesus that we shall protest against iniquity and disobedience of God's requirements. While self is strictly disciplined, God will give wisdom and power to aid in disciplining others. Thus all the influence will be exerted on the side of pure, faultless, undeviating obedience, and no exception will be made on any policy principle, and no unsanctified influence will be tolerated to weaken and demoralize a church. Oh, how I dread to write these things to you. But I dare not withhold them, lest my soul will be chargeable with your sin.  {17MR 105.1}
[17MR 105.2]          There must be a decided reformation in Brother Hanson's family or they will all be lost together, parents and children. Their attitude to the ［domestic］ help in their family is, How can flesh and blood be turned to the profitable account? The management in the house is conducted upon principles the reverse of Christian. The employer is too ready to prey upon the employed. They are often arrayed against each other like natural enemies. How can angels abide in that house?  {17MR 105.2}
[17MR 105.3]          May the Lord turn and overturn in Christiania. Better, far better, would it be today so far as the church is concerned, if a blow had not been struck there until an altogether different mold could have been placed upon the work                                          -106-     and the church. This work may look all right in your eyes, but O, my soul, how it looks in the eyes of the Lord! Now I shall write no more on this, although there are other things I might say in reference to the work as God has presented it before me. Now you can see why I have not desired to come to Christiania again. I am soul-sick. If you stood free and clear, then I should know that God would work for us; but as you have stood, I have no confidence that He will.--Letter 43, 1886.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 105.3}
[17MR 107.1]       MR No. 1256 - Reproof for False Statements Regarding Promotion of EGW Books; Unfair Treatment of Publishing House Workers; God's Law to be Obeyed         (Written June 8, 1895, from Granville, N.S.W., to "Dear Nephew" ［Frank E. Belden］.)        I received your letter, also the favor of your music book and songs in leaflets, from the hand of Ella May White, and I thank you for them. As soon as the Vancouver mail closes, I shall be pleased to examine your song book.  {17MR 107.1}
[17MR 107.2]         You seem unreconciled to the statement you understand me to have made in a letter to Elder Olsen, that you were selfish in leaving the Review Office. You have mistaken my meaning. It was not the act of leaving the Office, but your spirit and course while connected with the Office that was presented to me as selfish. What I wrote to Brother Olsen was not based on reports received from anyone, but on what the Lord had presented before me.  {17MR 107.2}
[17MR 107.3]         The course pursued in regard to wages, at the time under consideration, was a purely selfish course and was contrary to the principles on which the Office was established, the principles of self-sacrifice and of justice between man and man. Those who exerted an influence to increase the wages of the workers connected with the Office were displeasing God. There was a confederacy for the robbery of God's treasury. One worked to secure higher wages for others so that the contrast between the wages of the workers might not appear disproportionate. All who acted a part to carry this influence were engaged in a selfish work, which will sooner or later react upon themselves unless they repent.  {17MR 107.3}
[17MR 107.4]          Evil angels exulted, and the Lord said, "Shall I not judge for these things?' "They have turned unto Me the back, and not the face: though I taught                                          -108-     them, rising up early and teaching them, yet they have not hearkened to receive instruction. But they have set their abominations in the house which is called by My name, to defile it."  {17MR 107.4}
[17MR 108.1]          The Lord brought me by His Spirit into the very meetings where you were speaking in favor of the wages of one and another being raised. Then I was shown that the result would be separation from the Office because of the wrong course practiced in several lines. As I have said, your act in leaving the Office was not the objectionable point presented to me, but it was the various things enacted in the Office while you were presiding that were contrary to the will of God. In the councils your voice was often heard, and I knew that your only deliverance from Satan's snares would be for God to allow your own course of action to separate you from the Office. But I was surprised that the result came as soon as it did. The Lord let you have your own way, and Captain Eldridge made his own choice.  {17MR 108.1}
[17MR 108.2]          When you insisted that you were doing all in your power to bring Great Controversy ［1888］ and Patriarchs and Prophets ［1890］ before the people, I knew your statements to be untrue. Captain Eldridge and you confederated together to uphold and sustain each other, and worked according to your blindness of mind in using your influence to control the management of the books to make as high a show as possible in gathering means into the Office. The Lord brought me into your council meetings. I was bidden to mark the influences at work to repress Great Controversy that resulted in its falling nearly dead from the press, as was the case also with Patriarchs and Prophets.  {17MR 108.2}
[17MR 108.3]          The most solemn promises were made to me by Brother C. H. Jones that if I would reduce the royalty on Great Controversy to ten cents, the Pacific Press would push the book with all their power. Yet in spite of these promises Bible                                          -109-     Readings was brought in, and, being sold cheap, hindered the sale of the book that God had commanded to be written, that the light of truth might be given to the world to prepare a people for the great day of God. Every appeal was made that I could make, but without effect. Stoutly and strangely was the unjust work carried forward.  {17MR 108.3}
[17MR 109.1]          Brother C. H. Jones thought he did not do the right thing by me, but he must follow the lead of Battle Creek. At the conference at Minneapolis, in the autumn of 1888, Captain Eldridge faithfully promised me that he would take hold of these works and push them the next spring. Did he do it? No, they were kept back decidedly, determinedly, and your voice did much to accomplish this; you discouraged their sale and exalted Bible Readings, and the influence of Captain Eldridge was united with yours. I have forgiven you this, and mention this matter that you may understand what the reference to selfishness means.  {17MR 109.1}
[17MR 109.2]         Now my dear nephew, these matters were opened to me years ago. I had nothing to do with your leaving the Office, and in regard to the act of leaving I have made no charge of selfishness. Neither have I questioned your sincerity in casting lots. But I refer to the entire period of your service in the Office, and also that of Captain Eldridge to your course in interposing to shut from the people the warnings given of God, and your exalting and pressing Bible Readings, declaring that only one book must be in the field at a time.  {17MR 109.2}
[17MR 109.3]          You and Captain Eldridge manifested the same spirit and exerted the same influence at Minneapolis. When Captain Eldridge said to me, "Sister White, we shall take up your books in the spring, and push them," I replied, "I suppose, Captain Eldridge, you will be as strenuous then as now in carrying out what you have maintained was the right way to do, to occupy the field with only one book                                          -110-     at a time." He said, "I suppose a man has a right to change his mind, if he sees differently."  {17MR 109.3}
[17MR 110.1]          The very same thing you complain of in C. H. Jones, in reference to your book, was carried out in reference to Great Controversy, and Patriarchs and Prophets. The Pacific Press violated their solemn promise to me that if I would take ten cents royalty, they would give wide sale to the book. They would have reduced the royalty still more, but warnings were given me that I was encouraging a spirit of injustice, and that it was my duty to guard not only my individual rights but the rights of others. I was to take my stand firmly, and not be swayed by men, however high their position, for their business transactions were not all directed by the Spirit of God. The Lord will vindicate only the truth, and all who practice injustice and double dealing God will judge.  {17MR 110.1}
[17MR 110.2]          What excuse did Brother C. H. Jones give for not keeping his word? He told me that it would not answer to push the Great Controversy and Patriarchs and Prophets while the men in the Review Office stood in the position they did in reference to the matter, for they would be jealous of the Pacific Press. I said, "Judgment is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter. Yea, truth faileth; and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey." I have often quoted this as representing the course of the false shepherds, but I never expected to make an application of it to the treatment I myself received among our own people. But thus it has been presented to me.  {17MR 110.2}
[17MR 110.3]          In these matters you, my nephew, were not guided by the Lord, but were walking contrary to Him. When I talked with you in my own room at Battle Creek, you stated to me things you may have imagined were true, but they were false. You said you did as much to recommend my books as you did for other publications,                                          -111-     but that you dared not make a specialty of my books lest others should say it was because I was your "Auntie." I was disgusted at this talk. Precious truth and light given to prepare a people for the great day of God had been left in obscurity, and this was the flimsy excuse offered. More than this, you said, "I have not known of one soul being converted through the reading of Great Controversy, and I have known many souls converted through Bible Readings. In the same talk you said, "I do as much to sell your books as I do Elder Smith's. You believe they are inspired, do you not?" I said, "You may answer that question. I shall not."  {17MR 110.3}
[17MR 111.1]          After I had witnessed the confederacy for raising the wages of the workers in the Office, the Lord brought me into the meetings of the auditing committee that settle with the ministers for their labor. Angels of God were there, making a record of everything done. Brother Henry's voice was the controlling power, cutting down wherever he pleased, deciding the wages of the workers according to his ideas and feelings. How little did anyone think that the universe of heaven were noting every transaction. Brother Henry was not a poor man; he accepted large wages for himself and gave his strong influence of securing large wages for others in the Office. But these other workers, whose circumstances neither he nor other members of the auditing committee took pains to ascertain, were paid according to the impulse of this one man.  {17MR 111.1}
[17MR 111.2]          This work will be met in that great day when every work shall be brought "into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." Jesus says, "Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be." The Lord of heaven is not correctly represented by many of those who claim to be representatives of Him. They are                                          -112-     transgressors of His commandments. But He declares, "Them that honor Me will I honor."  {17MR 111.2}
[17MR 112.1]          All who were concerned in the payment of the large wages have been guilty of robbery toward God. "Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me, saith the Lord." And the result has been that God's messengers and workers who are poor in earthly treasure are pressed into hard places. Some have large families, some have a father and mother to support, and it is difficult matter to make ends meet. Did these men in the Office think of this? They will seek to pacify their conscience by some substitute of their own contrivance; but the books of heaven tell the story. The large wages they accepted for themselves and vindicated the acceptance of for others, they no more earned or needed than did some of those whom by their decisions they were limiting to a certain sum without a word of inquiry as to whether this would cause suffering or not. Is this doing as they would be done by? Is it loving their neighbor as they love themselves?  {17MR 112.1}
[17MR 112.2]          The law of God is a complete standard of righteousness. Man has not in himself sufficient wisdom to frame a perfect rule of right, and therefore God has given His law as a safe guide. Man is not left to his own fallacious reasoning in regard to his course of action toward his fellow men or his service to God. He is not left to stumble along, following the imagination of his own heart and mind. God calls the attention of men to a comprehensible rule of action, commandments that have God for their Author, the law pronounced by inspiration holy, just, and good. The service that God expects of His servants is not left to question and doubt. Will man love God supremely, and his neighbor as himself?                                          -113-  {17MR 112.2}
[17MR 113.1]          The Lord will not accept donations to His cause from means gained by the robbing of His treasury. This is not the way to make wrong deeds right. It will not blot out the record from the books of heaven. God requires strict impartiality in deal between man and man. "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."  {17MR 113.1}
[17MR 113.2]          The eighth commandment is to barricade the soul, to hedge man in, so that he shall make no injurious encroachment--which his self love and desire for gain would make--on his neighbor's rights. It forbids every species of dishonesty, injustice, or fraud, however prevalent, however palliated by plausible pretenses.  {17MR 113.2}
[17MR 113.3]         The ninth commandment requires of us an inviolable regard for exact truth in every declaration by which the character of our fellow men may be affected. The tongue which is kept so little under the control of the human agent is to be bridled by strong, conscientious principles, by the law of love toward God and man.  {17MR 113.3}
[17MR 113.4]          The last commandment condemns covetousness. Every selfish desire, every degree of discontent, every act of over-reaching, every selfish gratification works to the strengthening and developing of a character which will destroy the Christlikeness of the human agent, and close the gates of the city of God against him.  {17MR 113.4}
[17MR 113.5]          There will be astonishing revelations when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened. The Revelator says, "I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which                                          -114-     is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works."  {17MR 113.5}
[17MR 114.1]          Oh, I wish that men who filled responsible positions in the Review and Herald Office would carefully study the history of their works during their connection with the Office, and let their unfeigned prayers come up before God that His Holy Spirit shall quicken their consciences and memories. Oh, that they might see the evil of practices utterly opposed to God's holy law, and repent, and confess their sins before it shall be forever too late. They are transgressors of the law. He who offends in one point is guilty of all.  {17MR 114.1}
[17MR 114.2]          There is not a moral precept enjoined in any part of the Bible which is not engraved with the finger of God in His holy law on the two tables of stone. A copy was given to Moses on Mount Sinai. The first four commandments enjoined upon man his duty to serve the Lord our God with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the mind, and with all the strength. This takes the whole man. This requires a love so fervent, so intense, that man can cherish nothing in his mind or affections in rivalry with God; and his works will bear the signature of heaven. Everything is secondary to the glory of God. Our heavenly Father is to be ever cherished as the first, the joy and prosperity, the light and sufficiency of our life, and our portion forever.  {17MR 114.2}
[17MR 114.3]          Oh, if men in exalted positions only knew their weakness and God's strength and sufficiency and fullness, they would pray most earnestly, Let Thy word be my counselor. I tell all who have any connection with our institutions, Take counsel with sanctified reason, surrendered wholly to God; then you will be guided by the Lord. Many of you have kept the truth far away from the citadel of the soul. A man cannot continue in sin and be a Christian. Christ always separates the contrite soul from sin. Men may labor in connection with the work                                          -115-     of God as did Noah's carpenters, and yet resist the divine influences. The Spirit of God is beckoning heavenward, to imperishable honors. The love of God pervading the soul possesses a recreated power through the Holy Spirit.  {17MR 114.3}
[17MR 115.1]          God will not hold him guiltless that does not set the Lord ever before him. He will walk contrary to those who walk contrary to Him. He will visit the iniquities of the fathers upon the children and upon the children's children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Him; and will show mercy unto thousands of them that love Him and keep His commandments. The heart's inclinations are true when they remain under the restraint of the holy precepts of Jehovah.  {17MR 115.1}
[17MR 115.2]          Oh, that men would fear and tremble before the Lord God of hosts. He has made sufficiently plain His claims upon the human agent. The law speaks condemnation to those who are not doers of His precepts. God will accept no plea that man can offer to obtain acquittal. There is no power in law to save the transgressor of law. But Christ, who gave Himself as the world's Sin-bearer, becomes the Mediator for man, and the Sin-pardoner for all who come confessing their sins and accepting Him as their Saviour. "As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name." "And of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace."  {17MR 115.2}
[17MR 115.3]          The last six precepts of the law are comprehended in this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. The very ones who are in need of your love and sympathy are to be helped. We are to cry to God daily, "Create in me a clean heart, O God." And what will be the answer? "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit                                            -116-     within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes, and ye shall keep My judgements, and do them."  {17MR 115.3}
[17MR 116.1]          Then a spirit of kindness will be manifested, not by fits and starts, but continually. There will be a decided change in attitude, in deportment, in words and actions toward all with whom you are in any way connected. You will not magnify their infirmities; you will not place them in an unfavorable light. You will work in Christ's lines, manifesting to others the love that Christ has manifested for you.  {17MR 116.1}
[17MR 116.2]          Instead of exposing and publishing one's faults to others, you will put forth the most patient efforts to heal and bind up. "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." A harsh-spirited man is unrefined, coarse; he is not spiritual, he has not a heart of flesh, but a heart as unimpressible as a stone. His only help is to fall on the Rock, and be broken. The Lord will place all such in the crucible, and try them in fire, as gold is tried. When He can see His image reflected in them He will remove them; but if there proves to be no genuine gold, then they consume like dross.  {17MR 116.2}
[17MR 116.3]          The Lord has His eye upon every soul. All are the purchase of the precious blood of the Son of God, and in dealing with souls valued at such a price we are to exercise kindness and forbearance, even as we would desire to have exercised toward ourselves. If those in positions of trust fail to exert this kind of influence, which is the keeping of the law of God, then by precept, by example in business lines, they mold the sentiments of those connected with them, and unless they repent, the Lord in His providence will remove them, and the results of their work will react upon themselves. When they were sowing the seed, they did not reflect that a reaping time was coming. We should never forget that                                          -117-     whatsoever a man soweth that shall he also reap. The religion of Christ is to take possession of the whole being, and give force and power to all our faculties, renovating, cleansing, and refining. It manifests itself without parade and high sounding words, but is shown in an upright and unselfish life.  {17MR 116.3}
[17MR 117.1]          Lest a single statement of the percepts of Jehovah shall be evaded or forgotten, lest we should indifferently regard their claims, God declares that to all who transgress that law they are a ministration of death. The heavenly council, having arraigned and convicted the law breaker, pronounces his condemnation; and there is nothing in himself to save him from the sentence and penalty of death. "The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law."  {17MR 117.1}
[17MR 117.2]          I write this especially at this time because the leaven of disobedience and transgression of the precepts of Jehovah has been working in many minds, and the result is that hearts need to be purified, refined, and sanctified, that they may become vessels unto honor. We need to preserve contrition of heart, and to say with Paul, "Thanks be unto God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." "My beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord; forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."  {17MR 117.2}
[17MR 117.3]          Let the words of the beloved disciple be considered and practiced: "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth Him that begat loveth Him also that is begotten of Him." If all would take heed to these words and obey them, we should see in all our institutions a different state of things. The souls of the workers would be surrounded by an atmosphere that is healthful, like a precious odor, a savor of life unto life.                                          -118-  {17MR 117.3}
[17MR 118.1]          "By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith" ［1 John 5:3, 4］. "If a man say, I Love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also" ［1 John 4:20, 21］.  {17MR 118.1}
[17MR 118.2]          I have been called to hear the loud voices in the determination of decisions against one and another who are chosen of God and precious. Some things in these persons did not please the men in authority, and their case was not dealt with according to the law of God, in kindness, but according to human prejudices. Also, much of this work has been done by men who have not the Spirit of God, but are really agents through whom Satan can perform his work.--Letter 15, 1895.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 118.2}
[17MR 119.1]       MR No. 1257 - Funds Needed to Establish Medical Institutions in Australia; Camp Meetings Planned         (Written September 11, 1899, to Josephine Gotzian, a generous friend in the United States.)            I am much burdened regarding the dearth of means which delays the opening of our Avondale Health Retreat. The principal part of the building is up, roofed, floored, and enclosed, but it is not plastered. And we are losing precious time, which ought to be filled with effective work in behalf of those for whom this building is erected.  {17MR 119.1}
[17MR 119.2]         I have done what I could to help this work along, as well as helping in many other enterprises of great importance to the advancement and honor of the cause, that demanded encouragement and assistance. The money which our brethren in California sent me in payment for the College stock that I took from Mrs. Scott was very soon distributed where it would count the most for the work of the Lord. Not one penny of it would I use for myself. All of it, and much more, has gone into the work.  {17MR 119.2}
[17MR 119.3]         Last year I gave $125 to the Stanmore meetinghouse and $100 to the meetinghouse in Windsor. This year I have given $250 to the meetinghouse in South Brisbane and $250 to the meetinghouse in Hamilton, Newcastle. I have invested five hundred pounds in the Avondale Health Retreat and $500 in the Sydney Sanitarium.  {17MR 119.3}
[17MR 119.4]          This present time is a most important time for the work in Australia, and not only for Australia but for the missionary work in the countries near Australia which should receive laborers from this field. The work in Australia is just struggling onto its feet, and as it becomes strong it will                                          -120-     exert its strength in behalf of other fields. Just now the work in Australia must be advanced as rapidly as possible, for everything is now favorable and the Lord is going out before His messengers, encouraging them, directing their work, and blessing their efforts.  {17MR 119.4}
[17MR 120.1]          The work of our Health Retreat here in Avondale will have a very important relation to other parts of our work. It will not only serve as a hospital for the sick of this district, who are most destitute of proper facilities for treatment and of a knowledge of nursing, but it will also receive patients from Sydney and Newcastle and from more distant places. Already the Summer Hill Sanitarium, Sydney, is overflowing, and Dr. Caro says there are patients there who would do better in a place like Avondale. Dr. Rand of Newcastle is waiting impatiently for us to be ready for patients. This is an especially good place for those who become interested in the present truth, for they can attend the Bible classes at the school. It is a splendid place for convalescents who may be benefitted by the country surroundings.  {17MR 120.1}
[17MR 120.2]          When plans were being laid for this building and the committee was planning to make everything as small as they could, to save money, our Counsellor said to me, Where is the room for your weary missionaries? In response to this we built larger, and are planning to make it a resting place for weary ministers, missionaries, and evangelists. Brother Gates is here and needs the very care and treatment that this institution is intended to afford. He caught a bad cold in Melbourne and needs treatment now, but our place is not yet ready.  {17MR 120.2}
[17MR 120.3]          In times past we have had to take sick people into our own homes for treatment because it was not safe to give them treatment in the places where                                           -121-     they live. And now our houses are full of busy workers, and we rejoice that the Retreat is nearly ready for work. Soon the school will close, and several young people who have been preparing for this will be ready to enter its employ as helpers and students.  {17MR 120.3}
[17MR 121.1]          Will you, my sister, donate something for this work? You have helped us in the past, and at the time of your past donation you intimated that you could do something more if I would write to you in regard to the matters that we have in hand. I now venture to write. This building must be opened, for the necessity is great. We need your help. Can you give it to us by your own donation and by asking the help of others? I know there are those who could help us if they would. I know there are those who would cheerfully help if they understood our work and its needs.  {17MR 121.1}
[17MR 121.2]          We see new fields to be entered, and we pray the Lord for help. I am sending to you with this ［a］ copy of a letter just received from Elder Tenney. The next camp meeting held in Queensland will be at Toowoomba, a beautiful city about one hundred miles west from Brisbane. It is the business center of a large, fertile, and wealthy district. There is a small band of Sabbathkeepers in this place, and much prejudice against the truth, but we trust that the camp meeting will sweep this way, and that this may become the center of an important work.  {17MR 121.2}
[17MR 121.3]          Last year at the Brisbane camp meeting I was urged to hold some meetings in Toowoomba, and I promised that I would spend Sabbath and Sunday there on my way home. After this a large company of brethren from Rockhampton assembled and urged us to visit that place, which is nearly four hundred miles north of Brisbane. We decided to respond to their request and went to Rockhampton as soon as the Brisbane meeting was over. I was sick on                                          -122-     the way and while there but was able to speak to the people three times. My severe illness prevented our stopping at Toowoomba as we had promised, and I now think that I shall attend the Toowoomba camp meeting, and thus fulfill my promise to visit that place.  {17MR 121.3}
[17MR 122.1]          About two weeks after the Toowoomba meeting the camp meeting in Maitland will commence. Maitland is a place of over 20,000 people, twenty-two miles west of Newcastle, and twenty-eight miles northwest of Cooranbong. The instruction given to me about our work has been that we should as rapidly as possible present the truth in the various suburbs of Newcastle and also in all the towns along the railway line from Newcastle to Brisbane. Maitland is a rich farming district and is the center of a large stock raising district. If we are successful in securing proper help we hope with the blessing of God to have a rich harvest of souls there, some of whom will go forth to work for others.  {17MR 122.1}
[17MR 122.2]          Brother John Paap, who formerly lived at Kaikoura, New Zealand, and who has been one of the chief supporters of our school, has recently sold his property in New Zealand and has settled in Maitland. The presence of his family there will be a help in the formation of a church in that place.  {17MR 122.2}
[17MR 122.3]          Last Thursday Willie and his wife and myself drove from our home to Maitland for the first time. The first ten miles of the road was rough and mountainous, and we could proceed but slowly, but the last part of the road was good. We spent an hour taking our dinner by the roadside and were from seven a.m. to two p.m. in making the journey.  {17MR 122.3}
[17MR 122.4]          When we reached Brother Paap's place we found that they had been waiting dinner for us some hours, but had given up our coming, and brethren Starr and Daniells had gone to look for a campground. Although I had been                                          -123-     travelling since seven o'clock I did not stop to rest, but we started out immediately to meet Brethren Starr and Daniells and to search for a campground.  {17MR 122.4}
[17MR 123.1]          There were good high grounds in East Maitland but we wanted to find a place in West Maitland where there is the largest population. We drove around for nearly three hours and found that all the unoccupied ground around West Maitland is low and subject to floods. In past years this city has suffered greatly from the floods, and about four weeks ago much of the land around the city was under water. At last we gave up the effort to find a campground nearer than that which Elder Starr had selected, near East Maitland. This matter settled, we drove rapidly to the five o'clock train, which we reached just in time to get on board. I found room to lie down and slept a portion of the way. At nine-thirty we reached Strathfield, where we were met by Brother J. J. Wessels, who took us to his home. I thought it was a pretty busy day for one seventy-two years old.  {17MR 123.1}
[17MR 123.2]          I shall speak to the people here on Sabbath, and on Sunday we are to visit several villages on the railway line near Hornsby, that we may see what the opportunities are for selecting a good location for the Sydney Sanitarium. We are praying the Lord to lead and guide us in this matter. We desire that this sanitarium shall be established outside the city, in a high and healthful locality, where we can secure easy communication with the city and have the advantages of the city water supply. We must be several miles from the sea.  {17MR 123.2}
[17MR 123.3]          The building erected at Avondale for a health retreat is small, about fifteen rooms in all, but it will serve for the present necessity. For this building we solicit your donations. Those who help us in this will be doing                                          -124-     a good work. We are much in need of money to provide facilities for work. May the Lord help His people to do the work that is so urgent in this part of His great vineyard. There are important fields to be worked. We shall not hover over the churches but press into new territory and raise the standard in places where the message has not been proclaimed. May the Lord bless and guide you, is my prayer.--Letter 139, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 4, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 123.3}
[17MR 125.1]       MR No. 1258 - The Need for Church and Sanitarium Buildings         (Written May 1, 1899, from Summer Hill, New South Wales, to "Dear Brother Haynes.")            We received your donation of two pounds. We thank you for it, for we stand very much in need of means. The Captain Norman who it was stated in our papers donated such large sums, has proved a fraud. Not one dollar has been realized. He has disappeared, no one can tell where. It is a strange affair and a great disappointment to us. We did hope for the financial help we so much needed, but this is one thing among the "all things" that work together for good to those that love God.  {17MR 125.1}
[17MR 125.2]          During the week of prayer I visited Newcastle accompanied by Miss Sara McEnterfer. We made our home with Elder Haskell and his wife. They have just hired a large brick house at Wallsend on which is painted in large letters, "Empire Clothing House." It is a two-story building with good stable. It has no spare grounds; the house, barn, and outdoor kitchen occupy all the space. The owners promised that if Elder Haskell would take the place for one year they would put it in good order. It has quite a number of rooms and can be secured for ten shillings per week, $2.50 American currency.  {17MR 125.2}
[17MR 125.3]          One room, the sales room, can be used for a meeting place. If our people hired a hall there for only one meeting a week, they would have to pay ten shillings. We are all well pleased with the place, for we need our means to pay the workers who go out to give Bible readings. When we visited Brother and Sister Haskell they had only just moved into their new house and                                          -126-     were not yet settled. There is repairing to be done while they occupy the rooms that are in a tolerably good condition.  {17MR 125.3}
[17MR 126.1]          In the same suburb, Wallsend, there is a stone church which has been closed. This place will seat about 250 people. The church has been misused; mischievous boys have felt at liberty to break up the flooring and the windows and pull down the pulpit. It will take about one hundred pounds to repair it and put in the seats. Then it will be a valuable little church. If we had the money we would purchase and repair it at once, but we dare not invest.  {17MR 126.1}
[17MR 126.2]          In Hamilton, where the camp meeting was held, we contemplate building a meetinghouse. The ground is purchased but there must be no debt on the place. Therefore we wait for the Lord to open the way. He will do this. His promise is as good as a deed. A portion of the money is already raised. I gave fifty pounds to the Brisbane church and another fifty to the church in Hamilton. When we receive money we will commence to build a humble house of worship. Just now, in midwinter, the people have to meet under a tent that has no flooring. They have no other place in which to assemble.  {17MR 126.2}
[17MR 126.3]          During the week of prayer we had good meetings in Newcastle. I spoke twice under the tent, Sabbath and Sunday afternoons. The Lord blessed me with freedom. I looked upon that people so interested in the word of God and called to mind how, a few months before, there was not a Sabbathkeeper in Newcastle. Now about thirty have been baptized, and ten more will soon go forward. We thank the Lord and praise His holy name for His wonderful works to the children of men.  {17MR 126.3}
[17MR 126.4]          On Monday we returned to Cooranbong. Twice I spoke to the students in the school. I also attended the morning meeting and bore my testimony. The                                          -127-     Lord is moving by His Holy Spirit. I must see of the salvation of God. I long for it to come fully to all who are God's chosen people, that they may give to others that which God has given them, choosing a life of self-sacrifice and full surrender to God.  {17MR 126.4}
[17MR 127.1]          On Friday, Sara and Willie accompanied me to Sydney. We went directly to Sister Tuxford's home and found a room all prepared for me. That evening I was invited to speak to the workers in the Sanitarium, and the Lord gave me liberty in prayer and speech. I spoke to them plainly on the necessity of faithfulness in the discharge of every duty. All seemed to be interested and pleased, and all save one bore their testimony. On Sabbath I attended the afternoon meeting in Stanmore and spoke to a well-filled church. The blessing of the Lord was in the meeting. I longed to see the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and I entreated the people to choose God as their portion. Many excellent testimonies were borne, and the Spirit of the Lord was with us.  {17MR 127.1}
[17MR 127.2]          Sabbath evening I again spoke to the workers in the Sanitarium, and the Lord blessed us. I remained seated while speaking, and this rested me. It was a great satisfaction to them all to hear the testimony I bore. I spoke to them once again before returning home.  {17MR 127.2}
[17MR 127.3]          We feel so distressed over the situation of our Sanitarium; we cannot see where the means is coming from to erect the building. The building now being used casts discredit upon us as a people. It was a dwelling house, and the bathrooms which should be large and convenient, are composed of a sleeping room partitioned off, one part of which is used for the ladies and the other for the gentlemen. The persons on one side of the partition can hear all that is going on in the next apartment. This cannot leave a                                          -128-     favorable impression on the minds of the patients. We are praying that the Lord will send us means, and we believe that means will come. The Lord will help us in this work. The medical missionary work is to bring the truth before many others, and the Lord will open the way before us. The building they now occupy is full to overflowing and rooms have to be secured in another building.  {17MR 127.3}
[17MR 128.1]          The work must go forward in this new world. We are lifting the standard of truth in new places and the work is advancing. We shall be grateful for any assistance you can give us, and if you can interest others to help us we shall thank the Lord and thank the donors.--Letter 88, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 4, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 128.1}
[17MR 129.1]       MR No. 1259 - Earnest Effort Needed in the Cooranbong - Maitland - Newcastle Area         (Written September 12, 1899, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, New South Wales, to "Dear Son Edson.")        Be careful how you move. The last move you made in reference to your boat resulted in injury to yourself. Your course of action must not be a temptation to those who would excuse their neglect of the field where you have worked so hard. Do not give them a semblance of excuse for selfishness and hardheartedness. Do not lay a stumbling block in their path. This is the work of the enemy, and he is a wonderfully skillful worker. You are now to seek the Lord as never before. "Make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way" ［Hebrews 12:13］.  {17MR 129.1}
[17MR 129.2]          My son, do not become discouraged. Look to Jesus, and trust in Him. Keep the eye single to the glory of God. Hide self in God. Do not, I beseech of you, participate in this mania for illustrations. If you will depend upon God and walk humbly before Him, He will be your helper and your God. The Holy Spirit is freely bestowed upon every soul who will exercise faith in God. Edson and Emma, you are very precious to me, but you are even more precious to the One who gave His life for you. "Walk before God, and be ye perfect" ［See Genesis 17:1］.  {17MR 129.2}
[17MR 129.3]          I sometimes think it may not be long before I lay off the armor, but I am not concerned about this matter. I want to work while life lasts. I see a great work to be done near where we are located. In the city of Maitland, a beautiful place twenty-seven miles from Cooranbong, our next New South Wales camp meeting will be held. The roads to Maitland are steep and mountainous, but they are being improved, and will soon be quite passable.                                          -130-     At the close of our camp meeting in Toowoomba, Queensland, and in Maitland, meetings will be carried on in Newcastle, where a neat house of worship has been built. Hamilton is a large suburb of Newcastle. Adamstown and Lampton, suburbs of the same city, are waiting to be worked. Mr. Arnott, the manufacturer of the Arnott's biscuits, or crackers, resides in Lampton. The homes of many of the wealthy are in this suburb.  {17MR 129.3}
[17MR 130.1]          I should have placed Wallsend before this last mentioned suburb. Wallsend, which is nineteen miles from Cooranbong, is divided into three parts--West Wallsend, Young Wallsend, and Wallsend proper. Some time ago Sara McEnterfer and I drove to this place. Part of the road has been newly worked, and for some distance it was hard travelling for the horses; but passing this, we had a good hard road for the remainder of the journey. We passed Cockle Creek, a little town which must be worked, and a little later came to West Wallsend. Two or three miles further on was Young Wallsend, and a drive of another five miles brought us to Wallsend proper. Three and a half hours from the time we left Cooranbong we were at the mission at Wallsend. When the roads are finished, we shall be able to make the journey in three hours.  {17MR 130.1}
[17MR 130.2]          In all these places there are precious souls who must be searched out and labored for. There is no rest for us in this warfare. Before I left home to make my first visit to Queensland, the people in these towns along the line were presented before me as sheep having no shepherd. After the important meeting at Brisbane, we entered Newcastle, where a greater interest was manifested than we have seen at any camp meeting in this country--indeed I might say in any country. One week ago we were driven out to the suburbs surrounding Newcastle, and I then saw the settlements which                                           -131-     had been presented before me, all waiting for the third angel's message. These are wicked places, but God has precious souls in all of them.  {17MR 130.2}
[17MR 131.1]          I have been instructed that these places must be worked. Those who understand the reasons for our faith are not to excuse themselves from earnest, interested labor. "Go work today in My vineyard," the Master says. None will be excused from doing their utmost to extend the knowledge of the truth. The word has come to me, "God's people are not to be only consumers, but producers as well." We have a great and grand truth to proclaim. We are not to lose our spirituality in doing nothing; we are to labor to save perishing souls from ruin. All heaven is at work to save the souls ready to die. Will we cooperate with the great Master Worker and heavenly beings? Will we go out into the wilderness of sin and draw souls to Christ? The great Shepherd of the sheep will teach us how to work, how to hunt for souls, and the Holy Spirit will be our efficiency.  {17MR 131.1}
[17MR 131.2]         We have no time to lose. The message is for the world. "I came not," Christ says, "to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." Let the trumpet call be given. While some give the heaven-sent message to the large assemblies, let others go from house to house and open the Scriptures to the people.  Angels of God will give the people ears to hear and hearts to understand.  {17MR 131.2}
[17MR 131.3]          The worker who labor in humble dependence upon God, seeking His counsel at every step, will be guided by heavenly wisdom. Let them not trust in their own feeble efforts, but trust in God and pray to Him in faith. Ever remember that "the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force." We need to cultivate that persevering faith which will hold fast to the promises. Humble yourself, but exalt God.                                             -132-     Empty the soul of selfishness and sin, and lay hold of God's power. Then you can claim His promise, "Ask, and ye shall receive."  {17MR 131.3}
[17MR 132.1]          Bear in mind that if we commit iniquity, if we cherish deception and falsehood, if we deal unfairly in order to bring gain to ourselves, the Lord cannot hear our prayers, and we shall remain weak and unsatisfied. Cleanse the heart of self and hatred, and let love for souls rule, even for those souls who have dealt with you unjustly and dishonestly. They need all the pity you can give them, for they will receive according to their works.-- Letter 156, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. June 4, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 132.1}
[17MR 133.1]       MR No. 1260 - Evangelistic Successes in Newcastle and Brisbane; Cooranbong`s Need for a Hospital         (Written March, 1899, from "Sunnyside", Cooranbong, and Newcastle, N.W.S., to Philip W. Wessels in Cape Town, South Africa.)        I received your letter and feel very thankful that you have again taken your position under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. May the Lord instruct you at every step. You will be tempted, you will be tried, but walk softly before God. Put your entire trust in the Lord. Serve Him with heart and soul, and believe that He pardons your transgressions and forgives your sins. He says in His word. "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 Lord is soon to come in the clouds of heaven. Then the trials and tribulations of this life will be over.  {17MR 133.1}
[17MR 133.2]         You speak of being in financial difficulties. I know, and our workers know, what this means. We have received nothing this year from our publishing houses to meet our outgoing expenses. We are waiting patiently as best we can. The laborers working on the school building need their money, but they cannot have it for there is no means in the treasury. But they have borne this bravely.  {17MR 133.2}
[17MR 133.3]         The providence of God has gone before us to open up new fields, and we must follow where Christ leads the way. The work in Brisbane, Queensland, has shown the distinct guidance of the Lord. An excellent spirit was manifested throughout the camp meeting there, and at its close the work was followed up mainly by Brother and Sister Haskell, Brother and Sister Wilson, and Brother Pallant. Brother Wilson is now asleep in Jesus. Brother                                           -134-     Pallant has had to leave Queensland because of his health. For a long time he has been sick, but was unwilling to give up his work. He has been taking treatment at the Sanitarium in Summer Hill, laboring at the same time in Sydney. I felt distressed over the situation in Queensland. The tent has been leaking like a sieve, but the interest has not decreased. It seemed necessary to build a chapel, but the finances were so slow that it looked like an impossibility.  {17MR 133.3}
[17MR 134.1]          Meanwhile a camp meeting was held in Newcastle. We had feared we should have a small meeting during the holidays, but it proved to be just the time. The tent was crowded night and day. I spoke four times each week and had large congregations. The Lord has hitherto helped us. The health addresses have called out large congregations. Thirty-five have taken their stand for the truth, and they seem to be trustworthy. The net is still cast in the sea for more. I heard last night that forty were keeping the Sabbath in Newcastle, and among these there are many remarkable cases. They were taken right out of the world-men who were smokers and beer drinkers, and who have never made any profession of religion. They are soundly converted. They gave up their tobacco and their beer, and are full of hope and joy and courage in the Lord. This class never attended meetings anywhere before they kept the Sabbath.  {17MR 134.1}
[17MR 134.2]          Sunday School teachers and men in positions of trust have accepted the truth as a result of the camp meeting. One man has been baptized who has been a signalman on the railway for twenty years and always gave perfect satisfaction. He has a family of eight boys and one girl. This brother has lost his position but others who have accepted the truth have been allowed                                          -135-     to retain their situations and keep the Sabbath. Many interesting cases have come to our notice, and still the work goes forward.  {17MR 134.2}
[17MR 135.1]          A cooking class is held in Newcastle by our people, and women come thirty and forty miles to attend this class. A branch sanitarium has been started in Newcastle. This work has just commenced, but it is doing well.  {17MR 135.1}
[17MR 135.2]          A health club has been formed of two hundred citizens. These are all classes of people, from all denominations, and they meet together once a week.  {17MR 135.2}
[17MR 135.3]          The truth has gained a signal victory in Newcastle, and doors are opening for us to do aggressive work. The lack of means is our only drawback. A church building must now be erected in Newcastle. There is an old stone church in Wallsend, a suburb of Newcastle, which can be purchased for sixty pounds. It is in a good location. A larger church was built, and this old one was left to be the sport of larrikins ［Australian for young hoodlums or vandals］. The floor has been pulled up and window panes broken. A new roof must be put on and new seats made. Then it would make a good meetinghouse. As two churches will have to be built in Newcastle we shall purchase this one if we can. It will accommodate two hundred people. If I had means I would get it at once.  {17MR 135.3}
[17MR 135.4]          We expect that the Lord will work in our behalf. We came to the point not long ago where I made a most earnest appeal to our brethren in America to send us money. A few days ago some money was sent me from California, the price of some property I had sold. We saw the great necessity in Brisbane, and I donated L100 of this money to help in the building of a church there. At the same time I loaned L100 to the Sanitarium in Sydney, which was in great need. In the mail before last L100 came to me as a loan                                         -136-     from Elder Loughborough, to help in the building of a hospital in Cooranbong. This was sent to the Echo office, but as they had been obliged to purchase a new press because of the increase of work, and to add to their building to provide rooms in which to work, they could not honor my draft. I must wait until they can do this.  {17MR 135.4}
[17MR 136.1]                                             Newcastle, N.S.W., March 17, 1899.        Sister Sara McEnterfer accompanied me to Newcastle on this morning's train. I am writing in the mission home, where Brother and Sister Starr live. Both are doing their best to advance the cause of truth. The interest continues to be good, and we have faith that a large number will take their stand for the truth. Twelve or fifteen will be baptized next Sunday. How far this interest extends we know not, but the citizens who are not believers say that the whole community is stirred.  {17MR 136.1}
[17MR 136.2]          Newcastle spreads over a large extent of land, and meetings are being held in different localities. Several are giving Bible readings. The meetings held by Dr. Caro call out a full tent, and he talks most decidedly on health reform principles.  {17MR 136.2}
[17MR 136.3]                                       "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, March 20, 1899.        Home again. I bore my testimony on Sunday to a goodly congregation. On Sabbath there sat in the meeting with his wife and family a man who two weeks before had cursed his wife because she decided to be baptized. Afterwards he told Brother Starr that he was ashamed of himself. We think that he will obey the truth and himself be baptized. We hope the Lord will open the way for him.  {17MR 136.3}
[17MR 136.4]          Lay hold by faith, my brother. The Lord wants you to trust in Him who gave his life for you. Hold fast the faith unto the end. Your wife has now                                         -137-     the reward of her faith. May the Lord bless the dear soul. I would be much pleased to have you make us a visit and see what we are doing. Brother Haskell writes that the meetinghouse in Brisbane will be dedicated next Sabbath and Sunday. Oh, what a blessing it is that they have a meetinghouse. The tent they were using leaked badly.  {17MR 136.4}
[17MR 137.1]          There is a much larger work to do in Newcastle. Brother Lord has moved to Cooranbong with his family. He has a large family of eight boys, and has had to borrow money to come to this place. We are now sending them food. When they arrived we took them to our home and found sleeping room for them. They breakfasted with us, and then we moved their goods to their place six miles from the station. They are now adrift for the truth's sake. His married son, with his wife and child, are living in a tent on the Avondale Estate. He is earning six shillings a day. Brother Lord's only daughter is married, and she and her husband are now living in a small tent in a field near the school. They have given him work. So you see there are those who are suffering for the truth's sake.  {17MR 137.1}
[17MR 137.2]          The father sacrificed a good salary for the truth's sake, and now his entire family--himself, his wife, seven sons, his married son and his wife, and his daughter and her husband--are living in tents. These fourteen souls are homeless and dependent for bread to eat for what their hands can earn.  {17MR 137.2}
[17MR 137.3]          Brother Lord is a converted man and as firm as a rock to principle. He asked his employer for a recognition of his twenty years of service. Had he made one mistake? Had he been unfaithful in the least? They readily said that he had not. Then why not allow him a pension, as they had others who had served no longer? They refused him this, but said that if he would work                                         -138-     on the Sabbath, he should have his place and three pounds seventeen shillings a week. But if he left them, he must expect nothing.  {17MR 137.3}
[17MR 138.1]          Both father and mother are brave and courageous. God help them, is our prayer. We shall not let them suffer for ［lack of］ food. We shall try to find them work, but at the present time we have no money to pay the workers on the school building. We are in need of the money that has been pledged but has not been paid.  {17MR 138.1}
[17MR 138.2]          You see, my brother, we know how to sympathize with you. We pray the Lord to help you out of your difficulties. The truth of God will triumph. The mail has just been received, and there was a letter from Brother Haskell. He writes to Brother Starr, "We have received the pound you sent, and thank you for the offer of another pound from Nellie." I cannot give you particulars to show you how much we are in need without making my letter too lengthy. But we have had several very remarkable answers to prayer in this line. I think fully one-third of the donations received in Brisbane have been from those not of our faith. One man with whom we had a little talk and who was very friendly and ［who］ came to the meetings quite often called on us one night, and although we had not asked him for a penny ［he］ said he would like to contribute to our building fund. He gave me two five-pound notes. Another man who is an infidel gave us two guineas, ［A GUINEA EQUALS 21 SHILLINGS ($5.25 AT THE TIME THIS LETTER WAS WRITTEN).］ and so it has been.                                         -139-  {17MR 138.2}
[17MR 139.1]         The coal mines must have the truth brought to them. The suburbs must be worked. A hospital must be built in Cooranbong. Dr. Kellogg assures me that he will raise $1,000 for this. We shall get believers and unbelievers to donate labor to clear the one acre of land on which the house is to be built. One man has promised to give the logs for building. We are suffering for ［the lack of］ this building for our sick. One man was taken sick. When the doctor came he did not put his hand upon him, ［only］ left a little medicine, and charged two guineas. It is just terrible. The doctors do scarcely anything for the sick. Dr. Rand came and found that the man had had no action of the bladder for days and no movement of the bowels for more than a week. The doctor from Newcastle had asked nothing about his condition.  {17MR 139.1}
[17MR 139.2]          Application has just come for a sick girl to be taken into our hospital, but we have only selected the place for the building. God will help us. The building we shall erect will be a sanitarium and hospital combined, and it will be erected on the best site on the Avondale school ground. We must all walk out by faith, and humbly trust and wait and watch and pray. Let us humble our hearts before the Lord and walk softly before Him; for we need the wisdom that God alone can give. If we are tried, let us not be impatient. We shall put our trust in the Lord, for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength.--Letter 47, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 4, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 139.2}
[17MR 140.1]       MR No. 1261 - High Standard of Purity and Holiness to Characterize Gospel Ministers         (Written September 9, 1886, from Basle, Switzerland, to "Elder Oviatt, My Brother and Fellow Laborer.")            For two nights I have not been able to sleep many hours. About two A.M. I have been awakened greatly burdened, and, after devoting some time to prayer, have attempted to write.  {17MR 140.1}
[17MR 140.2]          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 are entertained 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.  {17MR 140.2}
[17MR 140.3]          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.                                           -141-  {17MR 140.3}
[17MR 141.1]          I was shown that in consequence of temptations you could not lift up "holy hands, without wrath and doubting" ［1 Timothy 2:8］. 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 or sleeps. 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 ［blotted out］ 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 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.  {17MR 141.1}
[17MR 141.2]         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. 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.                                           -142-  {17MR 141.2}
[17MR 142.1]         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.  {17MR 142.1}
[17MR 142.2]          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 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. 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.  {17MR 142.2}
[17MR 142.3]          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, . . . not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock" ［1 Peter 5:2-5; and verses 4-10 quoted］.                                           -143-  {17MR 142.3}
[17MR 143.1]         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 of 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.  {17MR 143.1}
[17MR 143.2]          There need to be far more lessons in the ministry of the Word of true conversion than of the arguments of the 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, no more acceptable to God than was the offering of Cain. They are not in harmony with God.  {17MR 143.2}
[17MR 143.3]          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 upon your part to unholy suggestions 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.  {17MR 143.3}
[17MR 143.4]          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                                             -144-     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, poisoned fountain, to quench their thirst rather than bringing them to Christ, is doing the devil's work.  {17MR 143.4}
[17MR 144.1]          There are many who profess to believe the truth who are corrupt in morals and who tarnish the purity in thoughts and impulse 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. 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 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.  {17MR 144.1}
[17MR 144.2]         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. 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.                                             -145-  {17MR 144.2}
[17MR 145.1]          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 you 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.  {17MR 145.1}
[17MR 145.2]          The sooner the ranks are purged from all 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 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 cup of Israel of its moral defilement.-- Letter 5, 1886.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. June 4, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 145.2}
[17MR 146.1]       MR No. 1262 - Counsel Regarding a Second Marriage         (Written August 26, 1895, from Cooranbong, N.S.W., Australia, to "Dear Sister" ［Mrs. Ketring］.)            I have received and read your letter, and will make but a brief reply, for the American mail, which closes on Monday, must have my attention. In regard to the marriage of your daughter with J, I see where you are troubled. But the marriage took place with your consent, and your daughter, knowing all about him, accepted him as her husband, and now I can see no reason why you should carry any burden over this matter. Your daughter loves J, and it may be that this marriage is in the order of God that both J and your daughter may have a richer Christian experience and be built up where they are deficient. Your daughter has pledged herself to J in marriage, and to break her marriage vows would be far from right. She cannot now disannul her obligations to him.  {17MR 146.1}
[17MR 146.2]          You say that J was engaged to some young lady in Topeka. I cannot speak concerning this, for I have not heard J's reasons for breaking his engagement, if he did so. But I had a personal knowledge of his former relations with his first wife K. J loved K far too well, for she was not worthy of his regard. He did all in his power to help her, and sought in every possible way to retain her as his wife. He could not have done more than he did do. I pleaded with her, and tried to show her the inconsistency of her course, and begged her not to obtain a divorce; but she was determined and willful and stubborn, and would have her own way. While she lived with him, she sought to secure all the money possible from him, but she would not treat him kindly as a wife should treat her husband.                                         -147-  {17MR 146.2}
[17MR 147.1]          J did not put his wife away. She left him, and put him away, and married another man. I see nothing in the Scripture that forbids him to marry again in the Lord. He has a right to the affection of a woman who, knowing his physical defect, shall choose to give him her love.  {17MR 147.1}
[17MR 147.2]          The time has come when a sterile condition is not the worst condition to be in. I see wives who have borne large families of children, and they are unable to give them proper care. These women do not have time to recover from the weakness of bearing one child before they are with child again. Many of these women are the wives of poor men who have not sufficient means to support their increasing families, and I am at the present time helping them to feed and clothe and educate their children. But notwithstanding their inability to support their offspring, children are brought into the world as fast as possible.  {17MR 147.2}
[17MR 147.3]          But God is not in this kind of doing. The husbands of these women seem to think that their wives are for no other purpose than to gratify their lustful passions. Children are brought into the world so rapidly, responsibilities accumulate so speedily, that the wives and mothers have no chance for the cultivation of their minds, no time or opportunity to devote to religious work. God is not glorified in such families.  {17MR 147.3}
[17MR 147.4]          Many of our young women missionaries marry, and in a few months' time they have children to care for, and are taken out of the missionary field. You may rejoice that your daughter will not be thus hindered in her work for the Master. She can accompany her husband in his travels, and be a help to him, and when she is left at home she can work for the Lord as though she were unmarried. This is my view of the matter.                                          -148-  {17MR 147.4}
[17MR 148.1]          I have confidence in J, and believe that he is a Christian. I had occasion to know something of the temper of his spirit when he was going through his trial with his first wife. She tried to extract money from him when she saw she had the advantage of him, and he was willing to do tenfold more for her than it was her right to expect or his duty to do. He has sore and hard trials on her account. I have tried to help him all that I could. I have tried to enable K to see and understand her duty. But as she has taken the course that she has, I cannot see that this new union should be disturbed.  {17MR 148.1}
[17MR 148.2]          It is a serious matter to part a man and his wife. There is no Scriptural ground upon which to take such a step in this case. He did not leave her, she left him. He did not marry again until she had obtained a divorce. When K divorced herself from J, he suffered most keenly, and it was not until K had married another man that J married again. The one he has chosen I feel certain will be a help to him, and he can be a help to her.  {17MR 148.2}
[17MR 148.3]          J is not perfect in character. He has some objectionable characteristics. He has been entrusted with means, and he does not always put it to the very best account. Sometimes he is very lavish with his money, and sometimes very narrow in its use and severely economical. But a good, God-fearing woman at his side will be able to advise him not to move impulsively, and counsel him to place his money in the treasury of the Lord.  {17MR 148.3}
[17MR 148.4]          J is in a responsible position, and if the members of the family to which he has allied himself in marriage will prove true to him, they will influence him to become a wise steward of his Lord's goods. Then he will bestow his means as if in the view of the whole universe of heaven. He will not participate in any unlawful scheme for making money, but will move with an eye single to the glory of God. He will eschew all petty tricks and avoid all mean, dishonest                                          -149-     devices, and will do nothing that will ［in］ any way work against the cultivation of true piety. He will realize that all his business transactions lie within the domain of God.  {17MR 148.4}
[17MR 149.1]          We must not lose sight of the fact that the steward is to trade with his Lord's goods, and that he is handling a sacred responsibility. The Bible requires that men buy and sell and transact all their business with as keen a sense of their religious obligation as they have when offering up petitions to their heavenly Father, asking for strength and grace.  {17MR 149.1}
[17MR 149.2]          The Lord has not left anyone to do as he pleases with his goods, and to give as impulse shall dictate or as friends may demand. The money he handles is not his, and is not to be expended unnecessarily, for the vineyard of the Lord is to be worked, and its working requires the expenditure of means. Now is our day of trust, and the day of reckoning is yet to come.  {17MR 149.2}
[17MR 149.3]          The Lord has entrusted means to His stewards to be used wisely, for all are moral agents and are required to bear responsibilities. Our varied trusts are given in proportion to our ability to use, but we are not to use God's means merely for the gratification of selfish desires, and as inclination may dictate.  {17MR 149.3}
[17MR 149.4]          J has failed at times in the past in handling his Lord goods, and has not always considered whether he was using the money entrusted to him in a way that would please his Master and advance the cause of truth. He must give an account of how he disposes of the means given in trust to him. He cannot study his own will in this matter. He must seek wisdom from God. I do not desire J to bestow one dollar in this destitute field unwillingly, for unwilling offerings are not accompanied with the blessing of God. I have no urging to do, and do not wish to force money from anyone, even for the work of God.                                          -150-  {17MR 149.4}
[17MR 150.1]          God has a work to do, and I am using all the means that I can spare, and provide myself with home, livelihood, and common conveniences. There are others who gladly and willingly help me in this part of the Lord's vineyard. If all do their duty according to the measure of their responsibilities, the amount entrusted to them will be doubled. He who gives back to God His own, will be honored for his fidelity, and will hear the Master say, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." But it is not proper for persons to give just as the notion may strike them. Christ has a right to all that we have.  {17MR 150.1}
[17MR 150.2]          You must not be surprised that J does not feel free to help your son. If your son has not appreciated the opportunities and privileges he has had, if he has misapplied his own powers, and wasted his God-given talents, the question is, Will he do better upon a second trial? Has he learned the lesson that God wills he should learn? There are many precious souls who would be so glad of a chance to obtain an education, who will not sow wild oats but will use every capability in obtaining knowledge with which to do good. I am surprised that J did not at once accede to your request, as you are the mother of his wife whom he loves. It may be that he is learning caution, and is taking the lesson of the past to heart. He has helped many whom it was not his duty to help. You should take his refusal to give you money as an evidence of his sincerity in that he will not compromise himself to win your favor.  {17MR 150.2}
[17MR 150.3]          I am sure that J means to do his duty. The mistake he made in bestowing his money on his first wife's family has probably taught him not to repeat the experiment. I hope that his refusal to give you means to enable your son to go to Battle Creek or to Union College will not cause you to become prejudiced against him. It should have no such influence.                                         -151-  {17MR 150.3}
[17MR 151.1]          If your daughter loved J. I see nothing in the Word of God that would require her to separate from him. As you have asked my advice I will freely give it to you. If J had given you the money you asked for, would it not have been something like trying to buy your favor? Would it not be much more fitting for your son to go to work and secure money for himself, and educate himself, rather than to be dependent upon anybody for such a favor?  {17MR 151.1}
[17MR 151.2]          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. Educate your son to be diligent, able to sustain himself and to help others.  {17MR 151.2}
[17MR 151.3]          God is the proprietor of the universe. Every man, woman, and child, with all the time and talents that have been bestowed upon them, belongs to God, He has given ability to men that they may use it to His glory, and thus have increased ability, wisdom, and understanding. God has a claim upon every soul, and we are responsible agents and should give Him constant service. Body, soul, and spirit, we should consecrate ourselves to His service, and do those things that will forward His cause in the earth. We are to do His will upon the earth. Our pleasure is not to be consulted nor permitted to be the governing impulse.  {17MR 151.3}
[17MR 151.4]          Now, my dear sister, I will send you this letter, and also forward a copy of it to J. I desire to act the part of a mother to him. In times of affliction he has needed a mother. Every penny he has placed in my hands has been used for the saving of perishing souls, and in time to come may it be his experience to hear from the lips of the Master, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant: . . . enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."                                         -152-  {17MR 151.4}
[17MR 152.1]          I am truly sorry that you have taken upon yourself unnecessary burdens. Do you not see that in separating J and your daughter you would create two evils instead of curing one? Your daughter has married J, and there is no reason why she should be separated from him. You have no just excuse for desiring them to cease living and working together as man and wife. You may give publicity to the evil reports that may come to you, and be the means of making yourself, your daughter, and her husband miserable. Let those two, as children of God, unite their interests as their marriage vows require them to do; let them consecrate themselves to God to do His will, to be vessels unto honor, meet for the Master's use.  {17MR 152.1}
[17MR 152.2]          On your part, act as a faithful mother should. Be wise to counsel and help them in every way that lies in your power. Knowing that you all belong to God, deal justly and lovingly with each other. Be frank, be kind, cultivate whole-souled integrity, and you will win a crown of life that fadeth not away. Have perfect trust in God, and He will bless you and give you peace and rest.  {17MR 152.2}
[17MR 152.3]          I have written this letter at half-past-one in the night, in order to send it to you in this mail. I will now close, with much love to yourself and family.--Letter 50, 1895.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 4, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 152.3}
[17MR 153.1]       MR No. 1263 - Testimony Regarding The Monterey, Michigan, Church         (Written June 6, 1863, from Otsego, Michigan.)        Last evening while engaged in family prayer at Brother Hilliard's, the blessing of the Lord rested upon us and I was taken off in vision. I was shown some things relating to the church at Monterey. It is Satan's object to divide and scatter them, and make them a proverb of reproach.  {17MR 153.1}
[17MR 153.2]          I was shown that Brother Day is walking blindly; his feet are stumbling. He must make "straight paths" for his feet, lest the "lame be turned out of the way" ［Hebrews 12:13］. I was shown that Brother Day had manifested too much interest in the case of Sister Johnson. Many eyes are upon them. Brother Albert has not understood himself. He has not moved according to his usual good judgment and prudence. He has trusted too much to his own judgment, and already he has unwittingly injured the cause of truth which he has loved.  {17MR 153.2}
[17MR 153.3]          I was pointed back to the testimony given for Brother Albert some years since. I was then shown that Satan and those who despised our faith were watching, ready to exult over his downfall. I saw, Brother Albert, should you follow in the course upon which you have started, the triumph of unbelievers would be complete and your influence would be ruined. Already you have hurt the cause of truth. Already many are looking upon you with suspicion.  {17MR 153.3}
[17MR 153.4]          I was pointed back and shown the interest which you have manifested for Sister Johnson. It was, I saw, greater interest than you should have taken in her case or in any other one situated as she was. In the divorce your influence was too great. These things have injured you. Yet, if you had not taken the                                          -154-     unwise course you have of late, unbelievers would not have looked with so much suspicion upon your past interest which you have manifested. You have had thoughts of making Sister Johnson your wife. If you should do this, you give the death blow to all the influence you have tried to exert in Monterey.  {17MR 153.4}
[17MR 154.1]          You have moved blindly, very blindly. If you should follow your own mind and purpose in this matter instead of being happy in your marriage relation, you would be miserable. God's blessing would not attend you. You would forfeit the confidence of your brethren. A few view matters as you do, but they are as blind as yourself, and all of them are not reliable.  {17MR 154.1}
[17MR 154.2]          I saw that Victor Johnson has dreadfully fallen, but I have seen that if even now he humbly repents he may return to God. Yet I doubt whether he ever will come into a position where God can acknowledge him as His.  {17MR 154.2}
[17MR 154.3]          Years ago I was shown that God had pitied Victor. His love of drink is constitutional; that is why the habit is so strong and so hard to overcome. This accursed habit of using tobacco has led him to the old irresistible hankering for strong drink. I saw that his wife had suffered much on his account, yet she has not always done as she should and helped him as she should. She has been fretful, complaining, faultfinding, finding fault with the brethren, telling her trials to him who had all that he could do, with her help and the help of his brethren, to overcome an appetite almost as strong as death. She has failed, greatly failed, at times.  {17MR 154.3}
[17MR 154.4]          If she could ever have been that help to him she should have been, and reformed him, she would have saved her husband, and hers would have been a glorious reward; but she often had a set will of her own, a purpose to carry out of her own. She was not yielding, and pressed him often with her will and                                           -155-     desire to do thus and so, when she might have yielded as well as not. She is not clear in the sight of heaven.  {17MR 154.4}
[17MR 155.1]          Brother Day, you were not as careful as you should have been to abstain from all appearance of evil before Sister Johnson left her husband. You were in her company, often alone in conversation with her. However pure your motives, you have been judged, and now, especially since the death of your wife, unbelievers put their own construction on the matter; and if you should make her your wife you would bring a reproach upon yourself and the cause that your whole future life could not wipe away. You would give the enemies of our faith cause to blaspheme.  {17MR 155.1}
[17MR 155.2]          Sister Johnson is not clear in this matter. She has not been right or felt right. God's Spirit has not guided you or her in this matter. You have prayed over it, Brother Albert, but your desire and wish to follow in a certain course has led you to take for light and evidence that which is no light and evidence, and the enemy has wrought here greatly to your disadvantage but to his own great advantage.  {17MR 155.2}
[17MR 155.3]          It is not safe, I saw, for you, or any other one in a case like this, to mark out his own course, to take his cause in his own hand, run his own risk, and trust to his own judgment, however good that judgment might have been previously. A desire to take a certain course may lead the person to take for evidences that he is right, that which is no evidence. His will is not in subjection to the will of God, and the enemy often has much to do with controlling the will and desire of the person.  {17MR 155.3}
[17MR 155.4]          A responsibility rests upon you, Brother Albert. You have been converted to the truth, have felt its saving power. You belong to the church of the living God, belong to your brethren. You are united to them by high and holy                                      -156-     ties. You are not your own. It is a matter of vital importance to the church what course you take, and the church should have a right to speak in this matter when their prosperity and influence are so nearly concerned.  {17MR 155.4}
[17MR 156.1]          And again I saw, Brother Day, that the church ［at Monterey］ has not taken the right view of scripture. A woman may be legally divorced from her husband by the laws of the land and yet not divorced in the sight of God and according to the higher law. There is only one sin, which is adultery, which can place the husband or wife in a position where they can be free from the marriage vow in the sight of God. Although the laws of the land may grant a divorce, yet they are husband and wife still in the Bible light, according to the laws of God.  {17MR 156.1}
[17MR 156.2]          I saw that Sister Johnson as yet has no right to marry another man, but if she or any other woman should obtain a divorce legally on the ground that her husband was guilty of adultery, then she is free to be married to whom she chooses.  {17MR 156.2}
[17MR 156.3]          I saw that Sister Johnson was not free to marry again.  {17MR 156.3}
[17MR 156.4]          Then the matter was presented in another light. If there were no difficulties and Albert could marry her according to the laws of the land and not violate God's law, yet he ought not to do so if by so doing he injures the cause of present truth. That cause should be dearer to him than life itself; and if by marrying he should bring one stain upon the cause of God, his wife is dearly purchased, and he cannot be happy, for God's blessing will not attend him.  {17MR 156.4}
[17MR 156.5]          I saw that Brother Albert has highly regarded the truth; he has sacrificed for the truth. Now he can make a sacrifice which comes closer than his                                        -157-     possessions. He must die to self. Self must be sacrificed. Self is touched. His own will must be yielded and be brought into subjection to the will of God.  {17MR 156.5}
[17MR 157.1]          I saw that the church at Monterey should learn wisdom. Some have made matters a great deal worse by going to extremes. Brother David Rumsey has been too fast and acted unwisely. He has taken advantage of Brother Albert's failings to build himself up. There is cause for deep humility on his part, and to consider himself lest he stumble and be overthrown. Some who have had but little or no influence for good have been free to talk to this matter and to exaggerate. That which they did not know, they have surmised and guessed at. Such mouths should be stopped; they are a curse to the church.  {17MR 157.1}
[17MR 157.2]          Brother Albert Day, I was pointed back and shown some things in the past. I was shown that you had moved injudiciously while your wife lived, in frequently visiting Sister Johnson. There was a wrong in this matter, and these things caused your wife much secret sorrow and sadness. She had the utmost confidence in your integrity, yet she did not feel at ease. The appearance was evil. You have been infatuated with Sister Johnson. She has insinuated herself into your favor. She was not right; her heart was not right; her thoughts were not right.  {17MR 157.2}
[17MR 157.3]          There is a sacred circle around every family relation that never should be overstepped. No other one has the least right within that sacred circle. You moved unwisely in interesting yourself so much in the case of Sister Johnson. You were stepping over that sacred circle which should debar you from the family of Sister Johnson and preserve you exclusively to your own family. Your sympathy and interest have been enlisted, and that to your own hurt.  {17MR 157.3}
[17MR 157.4]          Sister Johnson had no right to enlist your sympathy as she has. She is more at fault than yourself in going to you with her family troubles. You have                                        -158-     placed too much confidence in her. You have ［a］ too exalted opinion of her. She does not bear all the Christian graces you think she does. And for months her mind has been directed in the wrong channel. Satan has poisoned her mind, her thoughts, and she has had a powerful influence upon you, Brother Albert, and you have not known what you were doing.  {17MR 157.4}
[17MR 158.1]          It is time for you to arouse if you have any regard for your future prosperity and your eternal interest. The conversations you have had together for months past have been displeasing to God and have injured you both. Satan, I saw, had managed this matter to suit himself. And he has been triumphing in his success. I saw that you are greatly entangled, but that you should at once make decided efforts to clear yourself at once and finally from Sister Johnson.  {17MR 158.1}
[17MR 158.2]          Brother Carl Russman has not viewed matters right. He has taken for granted things which he should not without positive evidence, and established things in his own mind without sufficient foundation.  {17MR 158.2}
[17MR 158.3]          For some length of time Sister Johnson's affections were weaned from her husband and transferred to another. Brother Albert has thought that she would make a good mother to his children. He is mistaken. She is not a woman with a hopeful turn of mind. She walks in a shadow, lacks patience, is fretful and peevish, often to her own child, and she could not begin to fill the place that one should in that family. That stricken flock need one with amiable traits of character, hopeful, cheerful, forgiving, with a great fount of affection; one who will form their characters not for the world but for heaven.  {17MR 158.3}
[17MR 158.4]          Sister Johnson has ever loved you too well, and you have been unwise and shown a preference for her, which has brought you in a position where for a time your influence is gone. It is now only by humility and devotion to God that you can regain the confidence you have lost. It will take time to heal the wound                                        -159-     that you have brought upon the cause of God. You have hurt yourself greatly. It will take time to do away the effect of the wrong course you have pursued. I saw that it was perfectly natural for Victor to feel very bitter toward you. You have said and done much of late in regard to him which he feels is cruel. You have something to do to take back things which you have said and done in order to get Victor away from the place. You should make things as straight with him as you can, that your skirts may be clean from his blood.  {17MR 158.4}
[17MR 159.1]          You have, Brother Albert, offended your brethren. This is a sin in the sight of heaven. They were jealous for the cause of God. You spurned their fears. Your judgment was perverted, and they now have to suffer on your account. I have seen, Brother Albert, that you have been imprudent, and Victor has noticed things which have cast a sad gloom upon his spirits. You have manifested a preference for the society of Sister Johnson which has been noticed and caused unbelievers to make remarks. These things have hurt your influence. It is not safe for two families to be so closely united as your two families have been. By so doing the shield which should guard the privacy and sacredness of every family is broken down and Satan leads on to take a course to injure and ruin the cause of God and one another.  {17MR 159.1}
[17MR 159.2]          Brother Albert, I have tried to shield you before the church and before those who love to talk. I hope I have not carried the matter too far in trying to shield you. I fear I have. I fear that the course I have taken will cause some to doubt the truthfulness of the visions and think me partial. I was shown that many were jealous of you, and this is one apology for my doing as I have done. But now as I speak directly to you I dare not spare you. Your imprudence has been highly censurable in the sight of God. May the Lord tear off the veil which has blinded you and let you see all things clearly.                                           -160-  {17MR 159.2}
[17MR 160.1]          You have been infatuated. You have exalted Sister Johnson in your mind far higher than she deserved. She has not, in her troubles, made God her strength and burden bearer. She has fled to human aid which could not avail her. She is not devotional or a godly woman. She lacks humility, religion, and a spirit of perseverance, and is not a person who can exert a correct religious influence upon your children and take care or manage with calmness when placed in disadvantageous circumstances.  {17MR 160.1}
[17MR 160.2]          She is easily fretted, easily irritated, looks upon the gloomy side, and lays much of this to her troubles; but she could, if she had let her troubles drive her to God, have borne her troubles with more of a Christian spirit, and would have had a saving influence on her husband. She has reproached him too much when he had but little or no confidence in himself, was staggering, ready to fall through very weakness. She has been fretful, ［and］ accused him of many things. I have heard many conversations in vision which had an awfully discouraging tendency upon him. Brother Albert, as I write I feel astonished that you have been so deceived and blinded.  {17MR 160.2}
[17MR 160.3]          For years Victor has noticed your preference for his wife's society, and it has had a tendency to discourage him and drive him to his old habits. God's eye is upon all this matter. He is acquainted with it all; every word and act is known to Him, and in order for you to recover yourself from the snare Satan has set for you, you must make straight and thorough work.  {17MR 160.3}
[17MR 160.4]          Brother Albert, God has designed you should be a pillar in the church, a strength to the weak. Satan has said from the first he would overthrow you. He has led you in your unconverted life to be exacting and to overreach, and as you have seen the sin of this and have been reforming, you have established a character. All have had unmistakable proofs of the work of reform. The truth                                          -161-     has wrought for you, and Satan knows that if you follow on and are a thorough overcomer, the sins he led you to commit fall on his own head. He is not willing to lose you. He is constantly at work to devise some means to overthrow you, that your transgressions may finally rest upon your own head.  {17MR 160.4}
[17MR 161.1]          God will help you if you take the right course. But you have deeply grieved some of the best of God's children, and angels have been watching you with the deepest solicitude, seeking to turn your mind in a different channel from that in which it was running.  {17MR 161.1}
[17MR 161.2]         I saw that it was your duty to take every occasion ［for stumbling］ out of the way of others. Free yourself now and forever from Sister Johnson. Let not your affection linger there for a moment. It is not justifiable in the sight of God.  {17MR 161.2}
[17MR 161.3]          I was shown that Victor Johnson has truly loved his wife. She was dearer to him than any other one upon earth. When the divorce was in progress, his feelings were intense. He besought his wife to defer the matter. He promised amendment; promised to not trouble her, but go away and reform. She should have eagerly grasped at even that feeble hope that it was possible he might amend, and even if she had to suffer some time longer, given him another chance. There was an error in still pressing matters forward. Although those who were engaged in the matter thought they were taking the best course, yet they did not exercise the pitying love toward Victor that Jesus has shown them, and they should have considered that "with what measure ye mete" to others, "it shall be measured to you" again. --Manuscript 2, 1863.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 4, 1987. Entire Manuscript  {17MR 161.3}
[17MR 162.1]       MR No. 1264 - A Message to the Churches                (Written February 10, 1908, from Sanitarium, California.)        "Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city: for henceforth there shall no more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean. Shake thyself from the dust; arise, and sit down, O Jerusalem: loose thyself from the bands of thy neck, O captive daughter of Zion. For thus saith the Lord, Ye have sold yourselves for nought; and ye shall be redeemed without money" ［Isaiah 52:1-3］.  {17MR 162.1}
[17MR 162.2]          The Lord has instructed me to say to our churches: There is no safety in placing confidence in human wisdom or strength. ［Isaiah 28:9-17, quoted.］  {17MR 162.2}
[17MR 162.3]          The figures here used by the prophet are representations of spiritual things. "Who among us," He asks, "shall dwell with the devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings? He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil; he shall dwell on high: his place of defence shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure. Thine eyes shall see the king in His beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off" ［Isaiah 33:14-17］.  {17MR 162.3}
[17MR 162.4]                                  The Kingdom of Christ          The government of the kingdom of Christ is like no earthly government. It is a representation of the characters of those who compose the kingdom. "Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God," Christ asked, "or with what                                         -163-     comparison shall we compare it?" He could find nothing on earth that would serve as a perfect comparison. His court is one where holy love presides and whose offices and appointments are graced by the exercise of charity. He charges His servants to bring pity and lovingkindness, His own attributes, into all their office work, and to find their happiness and satisfaction in reflecting the love and tender compassion of the divine nature on all with whom they associate.  {17MR 162.4}
[17MR 163.1]          The prophet continues: ［Isaiah 33:20-24; 65:18-25, quoted］.  {17MR 163.1}
[17MR 163.2]         The power of Christ alone can work the transformation in heart and mind that all must experience who would partake with Him of the new life in the kingdom of God. "Except a man be born again," the Saviour said, "he cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven." The religion that comes from God is the only religion that can lead to God. In order to serve Him aright, we must be born of the divine Spirit. This will purify the heart and renew the mind and give us a new capacity for knowing and loving God. It will give us willing obedience to all His requirements. This is true worship.  {17MR 163.2}
[17MR 163.3]                            Privileges and Duties of Believers          Every converted soul should labor for unity of spirit and action with the One who prayed that He and His disciples might be one. The followers of Christ do His cause decided injury when they follow the customs and habits of the world. Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted to others, loses its lifegiving power, its healing virtue. Every one must learn to work, and to stand in his place as a burden bearer. Every addition to the church should be one more agency for the carrying out of the great plan of redemption. The entire church, acting as one, blending in perfect union, is to be a living, active missionary agency, moved and controlled by the Holy Spirit.                                            -164-  {17MR 163.3}
[17MR 164.1]          Having acknowledged Christ as the Saviour of the world, the disciples were charged to prove before men their claims, by representing in their lives the beauty and purity of His character. They had been called to repentance, and had been baptized in His name. In His name they were to call others to repentance. And all who would accept the offer of forgiveness were to be baptized in the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. By this ordinance believers were to be admitted to church fellowship; and from this time of open profession, a divine change was to be revealed in their lives. As members of Christ's church on earth they were to represent the principles of His church in heaven.  {17MR 164.1}
[17MR 164.2]          Speaking to His church Christ said, "Again I say unto you, That 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. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them." The professing Christian who is not a Christian in practice, is not included in this promise. It is only when the voice of the church becomes the voice of Christ, that the promise can be received in its fulness.  {17MR 164.2}
[17MR 164.3]          The upbuilding of the kingdom of God is retarded or urged forward according to the unfaithfulness or fidelity of human agencies. The work is hindered by the failure of the human to cooperate with the divine. Men may pray, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in "heaven"; but if they fail of acting out this prayer in their lives, their petitions will be fruitless.  {17MR 164.3}
[17MR 164.4]                                   Church Discipline          Let none speak lightly of the duty of the church to administer censure and rebuke; neither let them criticize the action of the church when this painful task becomes necessary. Christ has given plain instruction regarding the duty                                           -165-     of the church toward those who, while professing to be loyal members, are bringing dishonor to the cause of God by their course of action. "Every plant, which My heavenly Father hath not planted," He says, "shall be rooted up." God has commanded that those who prove themselves unworthy of church fellowship shall be separated from His body. Those who speak against the exercise of this authority speak against the authority of Christ.  {17MR 164.4}
[17MR 165.1]         The one who first brought temptation into the courts of heaven is constantly working against the peace and prosperity of the church on earth. To those who will listen to His words, Satan represents the authority of the church as harsh and lacking in sympathy, because it seeks to free the members from corrupting influences. It was Satan's purpose in heaven to dethrone God and himself take the place of the Most High. He failed in this purpose and was cast out from the heavenly courts; and since that time he has tried to instill in the hearts of men and women the belief that God is arbitrary and harsh in His dealings with His creatures.  {17MR 165.1}
[17MR 165.2]          The church does injustice to God when it allows to exist as part of itself elements that are bringing dishonor to His cause. In the responsibilities God has laid upon His church, He gives to each individual a part to act, with encouragement to draw upon the wisdom of God for His help. But there are those who depart from the way of the Lord, and who take sides with the tempter and his sympathizers; and there should be those in the church who in the fear of God will act with justice and righteousness and faithfulness in administering reproof.--Manuscript 9, 1908.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. June 4, 1987. Entire Manuscript  {17MR 165.2}
[17MR 166.1]       MR No. 1265 - Minds of Committee Members to be Worked by the Holy Spirit; The Marks of Christlikeness         There are many things that should be conducted in a more serious way. There have been board meetings and council meetings where certain principles have been placed before the board and resolutions voted to be carried out. Elder Olsen has supposed that the matter would be conducted on correct principles, and he trusted matters too much to others to carry out. But there were unfaithful stewards in responsible positions who appeared to sanction the propositions but who had not the least intention of carrying them out. They would do the opposite of that which came before them for their decisions. Therefore wrongs were practiced and evils were carried out in untruthful, deceptive lines.  {17MR 166.1}
[17MR 166.2]          Some minds are not worked by the Holy Spirit. They are so constituted, through following their own human judgment and using common fire in their service as stewards of God, that their ways have been accepted as the Lord's ways, and solemn, sacred matters which relate to the various lines of work have been carried in altogether a different manner than the propositions made. One or more men gave assent to measures laid out before the board or councils, but all the time they decided they would have their own way and carry out the matter as they chose. This was the light presented to me. Elder Olsen's advisers were blinding his eyes so that he should see through the eyes of these men who were preaching under a deception.                                           -167-  {17MR 166.2}
[17MR 167.1]         This is the reason I was obliged to take the position that there was not the voice of God in the General Conference management and decisions. Methods and plans would be devised that God did not sanction, and yet Elder Olsen made it appear that the decisions of the General Conference were as the voice of God. Many of the positions taken, going forth as the voice of the General Conference, have been the voice of one, two, or three men who were misleading the Conference. There were things in regard to Sunday work, in regard to the color line, and in regard to the Sentinel, that better never have been introduced in the Conference. The Lord did not preside in many meetings. There were some loud voices and urgent pressing of things that were backed by a will and determination that savored more of the common fire than the sacred. Plans were made that were all out of line with the unction or the leadings of the Spirit of God.  {17MR 167.1}
[17MR 167.2]          In regard to the Sunday question, we cannot handle it as a Conference. The circumstances that will arise will determine such questions. The Lord gives us light if we will seek for it by humble prayer. Wisdom and knowledge from heaven will come as to just when, how, and where we should work, when this light is needed. I am afraid of the many resolutions framed to come before the Conference, and acted upon without special seeking of the Lord. There have been resolutions brought into the Conference and without due consideration acted upon and made law, and many will pay no regard to these laws for they were found to be a binding about of our work and binding of false principles upon the conferences.  {17MR 167.2}
[17MR 167.3]          Young, inexperienced men who are unprepared rush ahead, not knowing whether they are right or wrong. Their wisdom is exalted above the wisdom of God. The Lord would have His people have real, genuine faith, for                                           -168-     without faith it is impossible to please God. "And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 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 20:27, 28).  {17MR 167.3}
[17MR 168.1]          Ambition for the highest position excluded Satan from heaven, and he means to work upon every human being to lead them to sin as he has sinned. But ambition to do large things wears away the life with a great many perplexities. The invitation of Christ is, "Come unto Me, all ye that labor 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).  {17MR 168.1}
[17MR 168.2]          Ambition in the disciples of Christ, and thirst to be highest, make them represent the men of the world. They are sure to lose Christ out of their hearts and they ［are sure to］ find disappointment following disappointment. Many in this world who are first in privileges and count themselves in many respects talented above others, will in the future great test find themselves far below the humble, meek, and lowly ones. God's estimate is accurate. Man's measurement is deceiving. Humility and the disposition to serve God by serving others are the true marks of Christlikeness, and they will be truly honored in the kingdom of God.  {17MR 168.2}
[17MR 168.3]          It is not enough that man follows the dictates of conscience. The mind must be enlightened as to what is God's will, and then an enlightened conscience will be an enlightened, intelligent will.--Manuscript 33, 1891.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Manuscript.                                         -169-  {17MR 168.3}
[17MR 169.1]                                     EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 169.1}
[17MR 170.1]       MR No. 1266 - Church Leaders to be Humble and Spirit-Filled; Board Members Not to Serve Indefinitely         (Written October 21, 1894, from Ashfield, NSW, "To the Brethren Who Shall Assemble in General Conference" ［Feb. 15 to March 4, 1895］.)            I have a burden upon my mind which I cannot lay off. The home field needs wise men in its councils. "Without Me," said Christ, "ye can do nothing." We can well spare the work of men who are without the imparted wisdom of God, and the sooner this is done the better it will be for the president of the General Conference and for the other members of the Conference, who must carry the work in straight lines, making clean, thorough records and straight laws for the methods and plans of the other conferences. The General Conference needs to consider well whom it places upon its boards as counsellors and planners, for the voice and influence of those whom they select will have much to do in the shaping of the work.  {17MR 170.1}
[17MR 170.2]          Year after year men who are not in touch with the all-wise and unerring Counsellor are placed in leading positions. Too long these men have been entrusted with sacred interests. They have not grown with the advance and development of the truth; they have not waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom and the grace of God. They are selfish and opinionated, and have come to look upon their positions in the cause of God as they would upon common business transactions. They have lost a sense of the sacredness of the work.                                         -171-  {17MR 170.2}
[17MR 171.1]         The General Conference is so arranged as to connect itself with the work in all parts of the world, and in its councils there should not be heard any human opinions or selfish thought. Favoritism and moving from impulse should find no place; but they have ［been］ to a large degree.  {17MR 171.1}
[17MR 171.2]          I have the tenderest sympathy for your president, Elder Olsen. I know his soul is weighed down with burdens; and unless those connected with him have the Holy Spirit's guidance, mistakes of a serious character will be made. Plans mingling the human element with sacred matters will be inaugurated, and men's ideas will be accepted as light when they are detrimental to the progress and success of the cause of God.  {17MR 171.2}
[17MR 171.3]          I have carried these matters upon my soul until they seem to be eating away my courage and life. Now I can refrain no longer. I have spoken. Had I known of one who would have stood by Elder Olsen and given him that wisdom in counsel and that help he so much needs, I would have sent this letter long ago; but after writing it, I have drawn back from sending it.  {17MR 171.3}
[17MR 171.4]          It has been a mystery to me how Elder Olsen could receive and sanction two men of similar religious character, when he has no evidence that they are consecrated to God. They have manifested little of a vital connection with God, and yet he has linked them together and sent them upon distant and important missions, to do important work demanding clear and sanctified agents who could look to heaven and say, "Speak, Lord; for Thy servant heareth."  {17MR 171.4}
[17MR 171.5]          Elder Olsen's proposition to have A. R. Henry come to this country, I could not sanction. I was compelled to say that we did not want him. God had presented his case before me. Since the Minneapolis meeting he has never taken his position in full reception of the light God has so                                        -172-     graciously given for these last days. He has not honored the position he has occupied in the Office, because he has carried the spirit of A. R. Henry in full size. In him there has been no diminution of self. God has revealed to me that the influence given to these men whose hearts are not right with God, who are not in harmony with God, will prove in the end a curse instead of a blessing. The confidence of the people cannot sustain these men if they pursue their course of action.  {17MR 171.5}
[17MR 172.1]          Those who have subdued, contrite hearts are tenderly regarded by the Lord. "For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones" ［Isaiah 57:15］. Thank the Lord! I praise His name that He does not judge unrighteously. "His mercy is on them that fear Him from generation to generation. He hath showed strength with His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich He hath sent empty away" ［Luke 1:50-53］. Read also every verse of the 62nd and 34th Psalms, for they both contain important lessons.  {17MR 172.1}
[17MR 172.2]          ［Jeremiah 2:11-13; 7:3-11; Jeremiah 17:5-10; 18:11-15, quoted.］        These words of the Lord were read in my hearing, and I want that they should be read before the people who need them, especially before the men who have not been walking in the light. I would not urge Elder Olsen personally to take the load upon his shoulders. The men who should stay up his hands are weakening them, and I appeal directly to them. God grant that something shall be done; for I know that the Lord cannot prosper His                                          -173-     ［church］ while such principles as have been practiced are still the rule of action. When the messages sent them are brought before these men, and they make no response, are unaffected, or else ［are］ too proud to admit their wrong course of action, bracing themselves to resist every appeal, their spirit is similar to that of Nadab and Abihu. They are determined to walk in the way they have chosen, and the Lord gives them up to their own perverted imaginations.  {17MR 172.2}
[17MR 173.1]         The Lord has a controversy with them, and yet Elder Olsen treats them as representative men, sending them hither and thither as men of discernment, endorsing them as trustworthy and reliable men, to whom the people shall listen and show respect as the voice of God in the Conference. But when they give unmistakable evidence that they are not taught or led of God, they are not to carry matters as they choose; for they will not work in Christ's lines. Enterprises in this large field of God need much consideration and wisdom from God; but men's ideas, mingled with selfishness, will be enough to drown the voice of God, which will not be heard in the uproar of voices. Thus portions of the field are neglected and mismanaged. No arrangements are to be made to fit the field. We must take them as they are, even though hard and unpromising.  {17MR 173.1}
[17MR 173.2]          The men who are engaged in the work must have a knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, whom He hath sent. They must be men whose hearts are under the discipline and molding of God, giving evidence that they love and fear God and are responsible to Him; men who are humble, conscientiously and faithfully performing the work as God would have it done; men who are not arbitrary and self-exalted, anxious to carry out their own ideas, but who feel that they can and will lean upon the great Counsellor.                                         -174-  {17MR 173.2}
[17MR 174.1]          There is little of the Holy Spirit in your councils. The men composing them do not feel that they must "be still, and know that I am God." The work has been extended, and the churches need the riches of the grace of God, the sanctification of the Spirit of God, that the members, by a proper division of labor, may develop their capabilities in doing good. A more important matter than this cannot occupy the minds of the members of the General Conference in their deliberations.  {17MR 174.1}
[17MR 174.2]          The same men are not to compose your boards year after year. Changes should have been made long ago. God would have the church roll away her reproach, but as long as men who have felt fully competent to work without accepting counsel of God are kept in office year after year, this cannot be done. This state of things is leavening every branch of the work, because men do not feel their need of the guidance of the Holy Spirit. When men feel competent to pronounce judgment and condemn the Holy Spirit, they do a work for themselves which will be difficult to counteract. The whole head becomes sick and the discernment so weak that it is apt to judge unrighteously. The Spirit still calls, but they do not hear nor heed the call of God.  {17MR 174.2}
[17MR 174.3]          ［1 John 2:9, 10, 15, 16, quoted.］ God calls; listen to His call. ［Revelation 3:2-5, 15-18, quoted.］  {17MR 174.3}
[17MR 174.4]          Those who have resisted light and evidence are in a very sad condition, for they walk as blind men, and not knowing at what they stumble. They make crooked paths for their feet, and the lame are turned out of the way. The Holy Spirit has been proffered again and again to the church in Battle Creek. The Holy Spirit has breathed upon the souls there for whom Christ has died. Then was the time to honor God, to praise Him, to respond to His                                          -175-     grace by cultivating a love for heavenly things, by beholding Jesus, that His likeness might be reflected in their cheerful, grateful praise for the manifestation of His love and grace.  {17MR 174.4}
[17MR 175.1]          There is but a step from earth to heaven. Why did the heavenly anointing depart? Why did mischief come in? Because the soul was not trained to the exercise of pity; because faith scarcely had an existence; because the men handling sacred things were sharp, critical, and censorious.--Letter 2, 1894.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. July 9, 1987. Entire Letter.                                           -176-  {17MR 175.1}
[17MR 176.1]                                     EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 176.1}
[17MR 177.1]       MR No. 1267 - Evil Counsels Followed at the Review and Herald and the General Conference         (Written October 12, 1895, at Granville, NSW.)          The reproofs that have been coming to the men who have walked away from God into false paths have not been for anything that has come suddenly. There has been a working of the great deceiver upon human minds, after human methods that God has not sanctioned. Men controlled by the Holy Spirit, familiar with the principles of the law of God, could not engage in it if they had been looking to God and trusting in God. But men, human men, have had a settled determination to carry out their own devisings as if the Lord had authorized them to do this work. Men were working upon principles that God has condemned, which God will not accept, but in the great day of God He will say, "Who has required this work at your hands?"  {17MR 177.1}
[17MR 177.2]          The natural traits of the human heart are always warring against the Spirit. The old man, not dead, will revive and have power to do mischief that will sink souls in ruin. Man has been building up the things he once destroyed. He has permitted himself to increase and Christ to decrease. He exalts his planning and devising as very wise, and Christ is left out of his counsel.  {17MR 177.2}
[17MR 177.3]         These men have had light; they have had the warnings and messages from God sent to them. I have often been aroused at twelve and one o'clock at night and have felt charged by the Spirit of God to write to you, but you have received other counsel, of men, and ignored the counsel of God, else things would have never come to this. Evil counsels have been exalted and                                           -178-     honored. Why have you done this? Much money has been used in the erecting of buildings to make an appearance of prosperity, "to give character to the work," it is said, and to give the impression that the men managing this institution were superior business men. You have voiced their decisions; you have wanted them to be according to their representations; and Christ has decreased, and the men counterworking away from God's plans have increased.  {17MR 177.3}
[17MR 178.1]          I could not entrust the light God has given me to the publishing house at Battle Creek. I would not dare to do this. As for your book committee, under the present administration, with the men who now preside, I would not entrust to them for publication in books the light given me of God, until that publishing house has men of consecrated ability and wisdom. As for the voice of the General Conference, there is no voice from God through that body that is reliable.  {17MR 178.1}
[17MR 178.2]          There is nothing to be depended upon. Everything is diverted into selfish channels. The Conference taking the publishing interest from Review and Herald Publishing Association does not relieve the situation at all, for the very same methods, the very same selfish plans, the very same ideas and devising remain. Enough robbery and dishonesty in deal have been practiced without now spreading to the General Conference this leprosy of cunning and double dealing and turning away men from their rights. I have now no words of sufficient force to describe the situation that has been steadily carried forward, notwithstanding all the warnings, all the messages given of God. When the word of the Lord is respected more highly than the words of men who have given evidence that they have no living connection with God, then the Lord's will and my will ［will］ be done.                                           -179-  {17MR 178.2}
[17MR 179.1]          Oh, how my heart aches, that spiritual wickedness should prevail in high places! The working of minds under the inspiration of Satan has come to a high pass. The men have been listening to the suggestions of Satan, and they know not from what source their wisdom came. They know not that that wisdom was from beneath, and would stop at nothing until they saw that all control was in the power of a set of men who were taking the place of God. The principle has been at work either to control or to crush all that cannot be controlled. There has been a spirit of deep, deep heart opposition to the truth of the gospel. Oh, to what obstinacy can the heart of man be brought! I stood nearly three years in Battle Creek. The power of God was revealed. Evidence was piled upon evidence, and on different occasions I hoped for a thorough work to be done.--Manuscript 57, 1895.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Manuscript.                                           -180-  {17MR 179.1}
[17MR 180.1]                                     EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 180.1}
[17MR 181.1]       MR No. 1268 - Wrong Principles Followed in Battle Creek; Moral Integrity to be Maintained by Each Individual         (Written July 1, 1896, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, "To the men Who Occupy Responsible Positions in the Work.")            I cannot sleep after twelve o'clock, for matters have been laid open before me during the past night that have been presented to me from time to time since the Conference at Minneapolis. Some things which were then shown me, I could not fully comprehend, but I saw that methods were being devised and planned which would bring in corrupt principles. Some matters have been presented to me several times, in order that I might comprehend them.  {17MR 181.1}
[17MR 181.2]          The light which God has been pleased to give me upon matters relating to His work, I cannot now fail to understand too distinctly; for the things which I have been shown have become realities. I presented no false vision before the men in Battle Creek when I said that some were handling responsibilities which they were not fitted to undertake. When men like A. R. Henry and Harmon Lindsay refuse to be worked by the Holy Spirit, and yet consent to accept important responsibilities, Satan takes possession of their minds, and plans and devises for them.  {17MR 181.2}
[17MR 181.3]         When these men entered upon this work, they did not foresee the results, but step by step has been taken under the generalship of satanic agencies, who knew from the beginning what the results would be. Had they kept in touch with the divine Character, they would not have done the work they have done, but while at Minneapolis they both closed their eyes to the                                           -182-     light and padlocked their hearts against evidence, in order that the Holy Spirit might not find entrance; and their course has testified to the result.  {17MR 181.3}
[17MR 182.1]          When Elder Olsen linked himself with these men, he perverted his spiritual eyesight, and saw things in a strange light. He knew that they were resisting the Spirit of God, but thought that by uniting with them he could convert them. The result has been contrary to this; for to a large degree they have converted him. His clear discernment between right and wrong has become injured.  {17MR 182.1}
[17MR 182.2]         From the beginning of his work as president of the General Conference, Elder Olsen's policy has been a mistake. Instead of upholding that which he knew to be according to the law of God, instead of standing firmly as a faithful guardian for those holy trusts which would keep the great heart of the work pure at any apparent expense or financial loss, he has tried to occupy a position on both sides. He has not been altogether in harmony with the men I have referred to, but so much so that Satan has stolen a march upon him. Unconsciously he has been ensnared, and his principles of integrity and purity have been corrupted. God has been dishonored, and His Spirit has been grieved.  {17MR 182.2}
[17MR 182.3]          Christ taught His disciples that the measure of divine attention bestowed on any of God's work is proportionate to the rank which that object occupies in the scale of creation. The little brown sparrow, apparently the most inferior of birds, is watched over by Providence. Not one falls to the ground without the notice of our heavenly Father. The flowers of the field, the grass which clothes the earth with verdure--all share the notice and care of our heavenly Father.                                           -183-  {17MR 182.3}
[17MR 183.1]          "Behold the fowls of the air," Christ said, "for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these" ［Matthew 6:26-29］. If the lilies of the field are objects upon which the great Master Artist has bestowed care, making them so beautiful that they out-rival the glory of Solomon, the greatest king that ever wielded a sceptre; if the grass of the field is made into a beautiful carpet for the earth, can we form any idea of the regard which God bestows upon man, who was formed in His image?  {17MR 183.1}
[17MR 183.2]          God has given man intellect in order that he may comprehend greater things than these beautiful objects in nature. He carries the human agent into a higher department of truth, leading the mind higher and still higher, and opening to him the divine mind. And in the book of God's providence, the volume of life, each one is given a page. That page contains every particular of his history. Even the hairs of his head are numbered. God's children are never absent from His mind.  {17MR 183.2}
[17MR 183.3]          And though sin existed for ages, seeking to counteract the merciful tide of love flowing from God to the human race, yet the love and care that God bestows upon the beings He has created in His own image has not ceased to increase in richness and abundance. "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］. He crowned His benevolence by the inestimable gift of Jesus. By this sacrifice, a healing flood of                                             -184-     life and heavenly grace was poured upon our world. This was God's gift to man--a gift that defies all computation. By giving His Son, God made it impossible for man to say that He could have done more; and the mind of man is put to the utmost stretch in the effort to comprehend this wonderful love.  {17MR 183.3}
[17MR 184.1]          By thus pouring the whole treasury of heaven into this world, by giving us in Christ all heaven itself, God purchased human affection and human ability. By yielding our minds to Him, they will be cleansed from all selfishness and covetousness, and filled with unselfish love. The Lord directs every mind that will be captivated by His love, and reveals to it the mystery of godliness.  {17MR 184.1}
[17MR 184.2]          But when sin entered the world, it corrupted men, so that every imagination of the thought of their hearts was only evil continually. For centuries God looked with patience and forbearance upon the awful presumption of the antediluvian world, and upon His broken law, which a degenerate race was trampling under foot. Then He came forth out of His hiding place, and punished the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity, sweeping them away by a flood.  {17MR 184.2}
[17MR 184.3]          But no sooner was the earth re-peopled than men resumed their hostility to God and heaven. They transmitted their enmity to their posterity, as though the art and device of misleading men and causing them to continue the unnatural warfare, was a sacred legacy.  {17MR 184.3}
[17MR 184.4]          Christ came to announce to our world that He had brought to men the donation of eternal life. "As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name." But so constantly had satanic hatred against the law of God been cherished in the                                                -185-     heart, and so widely had it spread throughout the entire race, that at the time of Christ's advent every human agent who showed friendship to God and advocated the law, was accounted as a traitor to the common cause. A wakeful impiety was exercised by the enemies of God, and those who departed from evil made themselves a prey, and were treated as enemies to the welfare of men. The principles of injustice and fraud were widespread, and a masterly power was constantly at work, seeking to bring into confederacy the forces of evil. This contemptible confederacy boasted of its power in the very face of heaven.  {17MR 184.4}
[17MR 185.1]          The Lord of life and glory is coming the second time, without sin unto salvation; and I present the above picture for your consideration, for it has been presented to me as a representation of the state of things which Satan is seeking shall exist at Battle Creek. I might enlarge upon this subject, for it is deep and broad and high; but other matters must be presented before you.  {17MR 185.1}
[17MR 185.2]          The men who have been connected with the greatest interest upon this earth have tainted and corrupted the work of God. The instrumentalities which He designs shall be used in advancing His cause have been used to forward unlawful schemes, which are in direct opposition to the work which God has specified as His. God has been forsaken by the men who have voiced decisions regarding His work, which has thereby become entangled. Men have seemed determined to place the mold and superscription of their human wisdom upon the work of God. They refused to be worked by the Holy Spirit, and brought in their own wisdom and devising.  {17MR 185.2}
[17MR 185.3]          The result of this has been in various ways. The sacred character of the cause of God is no longer realized at the center of the work. The                                       -186-     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; but it is the voice of--whom? From whence does it come, and where is its vital power? This state of things is maintained by men who should have been disconnected from the work long ago. These men do not scruple to quote the word of God as their authority, but the god who is leading them is a false god.  {17MR 185.3}
[17MR 186.1]          Men whom we had reason to believe would maintain their integrity against all wrong have proved to be unreliable, unable to bear the test of trial. Brother H. W. Kellogg was not proof against the representations of Brother A. R. Henry and some others. Professedly, these men were working for the interests of the publishing institution, and though Brother Henry Kellogg at first declared that he would not adopt certain resolutions or act upon certain methods, which he knew were not fair in business lines or in keeping with the way of the Lord, yet he finally accepted these propositions, which meant act after act of complicated robbery--robbery which was clothed in angels' garments. I say complicated, for everything seemed to have reference to some other line and some other interest. This, if you desire, I can define; but my guide cautioned me in no case to accept propositions coming from the board of directors of the publishing house in Battle Creek; for they meant robbery, robbery of those dependent upon the talents and abilities which God had given them. They meant robbery on the right hand and on the left, even more so than the men who advocated them could discern.  {17MR 186.1}
[17MR 186.2]         I have been brought where I heard conversations which must not remain a secret much longer. Brother Kellogg should have stood firm to principle, listening to no flattering representations, for he had a much longer                                        -187-     experience than many others. But he sanctioned methods that he should never have approved. Had he stood firm in the love and fear of God, had he borne the test, holy angels would have anointed his eyes with eyesalve; he would have seen the cupidity, selfishness, and oppression that were robbing God's servants of their rights. He would have realized that the men who proposed these measures to him were actuated by unholy impulses and devisings, that they were men who did not plan with God.  {17MR 186.2}
[17MR 187.1]          It is impossible to designate to what extent the false has taken the place of the true, or how far deceptive principles have been carried in business deal. But the father of deception has been working through men, and has taken possession of one line after another, working in an underhanded manner to gain control of the whole, and conduct the work on principles which would be carried out at the expense of integrity. Satan has spread his net to entangle souls, in order that religious instruction shall not come to the people in God's way, but through men who would misapply, control, tear down, or exalt, just as they should see best. This deception took with Brother Henry Kellogg, and his approval gave strength to falsehood. The men who had power in their hands could then say, It is done.  {17MR 187.1}
[17MR 187.2]          They met with similar success when it came to my nephew Frank Belden's turn to be tempted. When he went to the office he was not prepared for the temptations which surrounded him, and he too sacrificed right principles. Thus the leaven worked. Others, whom I will not name, when brought into connection with the perverting influence, listened to representations that were not founded upon truth but which were the inventions of human minds. All who adopted these resolutions confederated together to accomplish certain ends. They dismissed the word of God from their counsels in this                                         -188-     thing, and consented to be guided by human influence in their high sphere of action. Thus souls were sacrificed on the altar of mammon.  {17MR 187.2}
[17MR 188.1]          The men who originated these specious inventions nourished and cherished them until they believed them to be truth, and set aside the simplest, plainest, and most decided injunctions in the word of God.  {17MR 188.1}
[17MR 188.2]          Again and again I have been taken by my guide to hear words and assertions which were untrue, but which were spoken with great earnestness in order to captivate the minds of men with reference to authors and their books, and in regard to money and how it should be used. This seemed to be a subject upon which A. R. Henry was crazed, but his enthusiasm was the inspiration of Satan, and by the influence of the tempter the moral depravity has spread till there is danger that it will corrupt every right principle in the life of Brother Henry.  {17MR 188.2}
[17MR 188.3]          Harmon Lindsay is no more pure in his integrity than is A. R. Henry. I have seen different ones come from interviews with them, dazed and bewildered, accepting theories concerning the course to be pursued toward their fellow men, that were in direct contrast to the counsel of God.  {17MR 188.3}
[17MR 188.4]          Those who have gone to Battle Creek for the purpose of attending the General Conference have been leavened by this wrong influence. The mind of Philip Wessels was leavened and corrupted by the false representations made to him when there. He has retained the arguments of some of the men in responsible positions, and the result is seen in his separation from God, and ［in］ his work. The men who were supposed to be trustworthy betrayed their trust, and so corrupted his principles that he can see nothing clearly. I pointed out his danger to him, but he would receive no message                                        -189-     from me. The fact that Sister White received royalties was the stumbling block which was placed before him in Battle Creek.  {17MR 188.4}
[17MR 189.1]          I speak that which I have seen, and which I know to be true. The speculative spirit has been gaining supremacy in the Battle Creek publishing house, and oppression is seen in a marked degree. I must speak plainly; for a power from beneath, a power that works in the children of disobedience, is working in the men who are acting in opposition to the leading of the Holy Spirit.  {17MR 189.1}
[17MR 189.2]          For years speculations have been entered into by some in responsible positions for the purpose of erecting large buildings, which would give the idea of great prosperity. The men who have planned this put forward as their reason that it would give character to the work, but the real reason is pride, selfishness, avarice, and covetousness. These large buildings would not be erected by self-denial and self-sacrifice on the part of the men to whom God has entrusted His work.  {17MR 189.2}
[17MR 189.3]          Some seek to erect large buildings in order to give an impression of the blessing of God, while in their hearts they devise every possible plan to take from their brethren that which is their due. They have evidenced they have no conscientious scruples in regard to receiving all that they can possibly grasp, for Satan gives them the impression that in their cruel business dealing they are doing God a service. Large buildings can give no Christlike character to the work, be they ever so imposing. Correct principles maintained, a righteous character developed by those in God's service, firm resistance against evil--these will do more to honor God than the finest building.                                        -190-  {17MR 189.3}
[17MR 190.1]          "Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the Lord which exercise loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth; for in these things I delight, saith the Lord" ［Jeremiah 9:23, 24］.  {17MR 190.1}
[17MR 190.2]          Not only have these men corrupted minds in Battle Creek, but they have carried their unChristlike principles with them wherever they went. Elder Olsen made them his staff of honor, and as they accompanied him on his journeys, they tainted and corrupted the minds of the people in various cities. The president of the Conference has no right to burden the Conference with a multitude of cares which will endanger the truth of God in his own heart and in the hearts of others. He must not spend his time in trying to assist men who have devised plans and methods of dealing which are unfair; and men that do this should not be paid the highest wages ever paid anyone in the Office. The president of the Conference should learn whether the business transactions are carried on with the strictest integrity; he should know whether they are presided over by men who have pure, clean hands. His indignation should be aroused against the slightest approach to a mean, selfish action. Let one wrong deed be practiced and approved and the second and third will follow in the same line of fraudulent deception.  {17MR 190.2}
[17MR 190.3]          ［Micah 6:1, 6-12, quoted.］        This Scripture is applicable to those who, unwilling that any besides themselves shall have a chance, have been devising and planning to make merchandise of their fellow men.                                         -191-  {17MR 190.3}
[17MR 191.1]          I have been shown that some men worked with Elder Smith, in an underhanded manner, in order to lead him to place the lowest possible royalties on his books. Elder Smith was deceived in the object of these men; he thought that they were really trying to advance the cause of God; and they obtained their desire. Then they came to me and to others, telling us that Brother Smith received only so much for his books, and urging that the canvassers would rather handle books that would sell rapidly.  {17MR 191.1}
[17MR 191.2]          But the night after this plea was made, the matter was opened before me. I saw that they had visited Brother Smith and obtained his consent to a low royalty in order that they might present this as that which I and others should do. This was obtaining terms of royalty by fraud. I was shown the spirit that prompted these men to action.  {17MR 191.2}
[17MR 191.3]          In the days of Nehemiah "there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews. For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many: therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live. Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth. . . . Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children; and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought into bondage already; neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and vineyards." "And," writes Nehemiah, "I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words" ［Nehemiah 5:1-6］.  {17MR 191.3}
[17MR 191.4]          I have heard from many the cry of unjust dealing, and, knowing something of the inward working of these matters, I have been stirred with indignation. For years men have been working contrary to God's word,                                          -192-     ignoring judgment and justice. Shall we be compelled to follow the same course pursued by Nehemiah? We read of him, "I consulted with myself, and I rebuked the nobles, and the rulers, and said unto them, Ye exact usury, every one of his brother. And I set a great assembly against them." "Also I said, It is not good that ye do: ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the heathen our enemies? I likewise, and my brethren, and my servants, might exact of them money and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury." "The former governors that had been before me were chargeable unto the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of silver, . . . . but so did not I, because of the fear of God" ［verses 7, 9, 10, 15］.  {17MR 191.4}
[17MR 192.1]         Shall we call a halt? Shall we present the condition of things to the people? The most inconsistent plans have been devised by men whose minds were not moved by the Holy Spirit. Men have striven to bring their fellow men under their jurisdiction, but we cannot endorse their actions, for God regards not those who practice oppression, who make man an offender for a word, and who lift up and cast down at their pleasure, placing men in close places that they may gain their own unjust ends.  {17MR 192.1}
[17MR 192.2]          Anyone who has had courage, moral courage, to call these things by their right name, and who has refused to be drawn into the net spread for the unwary, who would not be robbed without making a protest, were not looked upon with favor by those with whom they disagreed. Members of councils and boards who would not uphold exaction and double dealing, but who took a firm stand for the right, were not invited to be present at the meetings where these plans were discussed.                                          -193-  {17MR 192.2}
[17MR 193.1]          A great crisis is coming upon us. If men still yield to men, as they have been doing for the last fifteen years, they will lose their own souls, and their example will lead others astray. God's soldiers must put on the whole armor of God. We are not required to put on human armor, but to gird ourselves with God's strength. If we keep God's glory ever in view, our eyes will be anointed with the heavenly eyesalve; we will be able to look deeper, and see afar off what the world is. As we discern its dishonesty, its craftiness, its selfish eye-service, its pretence, and its boasting, its want of fair, honest dealing in the ordinary intercourse of life, and its grasping covetousness, we can take our stand, by precept and example, to represent Christ, and convert souls from the world by our sound principles, our firm integrity, our hatred of all dissembling, and our holy boldness in acknowledging Christ.  {17MR 193.1}
[17MR 193.2]          Do not let the world convert you. Hold fast your profession of faith, maintaining your religious principles firmly but not stubbornly. Your religion cannot be in any other man's keeping. Honor the cross of Christ, and the cross will honor you. Let every man stand in God, not to be bought, not to be sold, but to reveal a Christian fortitude. Serve no man through fear of what that man can do to you that is disagreeable. Christians you cannot be if you depend on any other man's conscience. Christ died to give men moral independence, freedom to exercise their God-given ability. His servants are to be circumscribed by no man or council of men unless they have decided evidence that the men or council of men are worked by the Holy Spirit.  {17MR 193.2}
[17MR 193.3]          God has given us all that we possess. It all belongs to Him, and we are not to sit at the footstool of any man to obey his orders, for God has                                          -194-     made us free moral agents. He requires us to preserve our moral independence, and not be bound by any man. Our consciences are to be controlled by no power on earth. The Holy Spirit will work upon minds if we will hearken to its faintest whispers. It is the voice of your Advocate in the heavenly courts.  {17MR 193.3}
[17MR 194.1]          There has been merchandise carried on in our institutions. Why have my brethren upheld and sanctioned wrong? Why have they allowed their judgments to be controlled by those who neither fear God nor regard man? Why have their principles of right and justice been swayed and guided by another mind in matters of conscience? They may think it a better mind and a better judgment, but they are not to exchange their judgment for that of another man. Place your will and mind where the Holy Spirit can reach it, for it will not work on another man's mind and conscience to reach yours. But those whom it was thought had pure religious principles have shown themselves too ready to give up their own religion for that of another man.  {17MR 194.1}
[17MR 194.2]          God's servants are to resist sternly any deviation from righteous principles. Nehemiah took his stand decidedly against the first encroachment of man's rights. He had his own brother officers to meet, but he separated himself from them, and rebuked their plans to obtain control of everything. He stood as a reprover, frowning down their course which was contrary to the Bible standard of righteousness. When urged to confederate with them in their course of injustice, he gave a decided testimony. "So did not I, because of the fear of God."--Letter 4, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Letter.                                           -195-  {17MR 194.2}
[17MR 195.1]                                     EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 195.1}
[17MR 196.1]       MR No. 1269 - Every Person Has God-Given Talents Which Should Bear Fruit; Church Leaders Not to Exercise Absolute Control Over Others         (Written May 11, 1896, from Granville, Sydney, NSW, "To My Brethren in Battle Creek.")            All secret working is open to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. To handle men as if they were machinery, binding their freedom by methods and terms, is an offense which God will not tolerate. This work cannot be done without imperiling souls. But too often men seek to harness men, and drive them as horses are driven. Right principles are perverted by selfishness and covetousness, which is pronounced by God to be idolatry. It is easy for men who suppose their power to be unlimited, to follow the guidance of their own spirit, and make propositions and decisions that turn the work out of the straightforward channels in which God designs it shall travel, into crooked paths. But because a man is in a position at the heart of the work, where he thinks no one would dare to say to him, "Why do ye so wickedly?" he should not seek to rule as a lord over God's heritage.  {17MR 196.1}
[17MR 196.2]          These words God has been and is still addressing to those who are standing in high places of trust. Many have been corrupted, some more and some less, by your deceptive reasoning. You have thought that whatever your councils decided, would stand as the voice of God; but this supposition must no longer exist. You have the Word of God; you have the message which God has given; but you have turned away from obeying this Word.  {17MR 196.2}
[17MR 196.3]         My brethren, angels of God have veiled their faces at the partiality and hypocrisy which has been shown by some. Deceptions similar to that of Jacob are                                          -197-     practiced, and the time has come to investigate the teachings of Christ to ancient Israel.  {17MR 196.3}
[17MR 197.1]          God will in no case justify any attempt to turn man from his rights. He will not excuse men for grasping all they possibly can, by deceptive reasoning, irrespective of their own agreements or of the result their course will have upon those disappointed and wronged. Do as you have been doing a little longer and the confidence of the people in any voice from Battle Creek will be destroyed.  {17MR 197.1}
[17MR 197.2]          The word of the Lord to you is, Who has made man? Did you, who treat him as your machine, give him flesh and blood, nerve and muscle? Did you create the mind, the intellect, with which he is to serve Me in My appointed way? Who entrusted man with talents, that he might make the best use of them, and return them to God? I, the Lord, have created man. I, the Lord, gave him reasoning powers. I, the Lord, redeemed him with the blood of My only begotten Son. By creation and by redemption he is Mine. I will demand of him the talents which I loaned him to do My service.  {17MR 197.2}
[17MR 197.3]          Those who have sought unjustly to ruin their fellow men, who have taken man, soul and body, under their control, will have an account to render to God. Some in Battle Creek have sought to guide and control God's human instrumentalities. God says, They are Mine, Mine to work, Mine to impress, Mine to imbue with My Spirit, Mine to use to My name's glory. I give to every human being opportunities to use and improve his abilities and talents, to advance My work, to proclaim My righteousness in the earth. How dare you dictate and seek to control My chosen instrumentalities?  {17MR 197.3}
[17MR 197.4]          The buildings that in your pride you have erected do not glorify Me. The salvation of one soul is more to Me than costly mansions, than gold or silver.                                          -198-     But you have made an atom of a world, and a world of an atom. These buildings will soon perish, but they have not a living soul. The souls I have bought at an infinite price--the gift of My only begotten Son--you have failed to appreciate. Some have been treated with partiality and others with indifference, as though they were mere machines. Some have been driven away from Me, and led to despise Me, because of your insincerity and unjust dealing. These souls I will require at your hands. The riches of a world sink into insignificance when compared with the loss of a soul. And yet you have treated those who would not voice your man-made commandments, your human resolutions, as though they did not possess souls capable of living through the eternal ages.  {17MR 197.4}
[17MR 198.1]          Christ died to bring life and immortality to light through the gospel, and therefore man is of value in God's sight. He is to do his part, working where he finds himself best adapted; for God has given him talents and power to use these talents. He is to cultivate his capabilities. He is not to be a machine, a shadow of another man, but is to use his God-given intellect, and with humble, contrite heart ask God for wisdom. He is not to absorb another man's propositions simply because that man is in a high position of trust, but is to remember that there is a fountain of living water from which he may drink, and drink again. The source of divine power is open to all.  {17MR 198.1}
[17MR 198.2]          Man is only finite. At best his sphere is limited. If he is a branch of the living Vine, he must, with other branches, draw nourishment from the parent stock. This makes him of value with God. If men do not draw daily sustenance from the living Vine, they cannot bear the fruit of the Vine, and are cast forth as worthless branches, to be consumed.  {17MR 198.2}
[17MR 198.3]          Let all remember that however flourishing they may appear to be, they do not bear the Vine; the Vine bears them. The power to produce fruit is not in                                           -199-     them, but in the parent stock. As they draw nourishment from the parent stock, they bear abundant fruit.  {17MR 198.3}
[17MR 199.1]          Every branch has a work to do. Christ says: ［John 15:2-8, quoted］.  {17MR 199.1}
[17MR 199.2]          This figure of the vine and the branches is a precious representation of the living Christian and the dead, fruitless professor who claims to be of Christ and yet does not the works of Christ.  {17MR 199.2}
[17MR 199.3]          The character of a man's work is determined by the fruit he bears. Look into his home life. Is he gathering with Christ? Do his spirit, his words, and his actions testify that he has learned in the school of Christ to be meek and lowly, to wear Christ's yoke of perfect obedience?  {17MR 199.3}
[17MR 199.4]          "As the Father hath loved Me," said Christ, "so have I loved you: continue ye in My love. If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love" ［verses 9, 10］. Every soul that has a vital connection with God will reveal the works and ways of God. The doing of the commandments of God is his absorbing interest. He receives light from Christ, and radiates it to others.  {17MR 199.4}
[17MR 199.5]         When men are selected as counsellors, they are looked upon as guardians to protect the rights of those with whom they are connected. To all in this position I would say, When any man, high or low, rich or poor, needs sympathy, advice, or help, bind that man to your heart by wise, compassionate, tender love. Let there be no harshness, no demeaning, for he is Christ's property, beloved of Jesus Christ. Satan has bound him up with sin; he finds sorrow and pain and misery in sin. He is seeking for Jesus. Lift Him up, the man of Calvary, for one soul saved is worth more than the riches of a world.  {17MR 199.5}
[17MR 199.6]          But this work of soul saving has been neglected; personal efforts have not been made. Men in responsible positions, craving large buildings "to make an                                         -200-     appearance and give character to the work," have neglected the only means that can give character to the work. The only way they can do this is to abide in the Vine, and show by their good works that they are vitally connected with it. Thus they can represent Christ in the fruit they bear, and diffuse light to the world. "Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?" ［Isaiah 58:6］. "And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not" ［verse 11］. Christ says of His work: ［Isaiah 61:1-3, quoted］.  {17MR 199.6}
[17MR 200.1]         The further the Pharisees separated from God, the more eager they were to manufacture commandments restricting the freedom of their fellow men. They bound heavy burdens upon them, grievous to be borne. They transgressed the commandments of God, and mingled with them the traditions and maxims of men. These traditions they exalted above the word of God. "In vain they do worship Me," said Christ, "teaching for doctrines the commandments of men."  {17MR 200.1}
[17MR 200.2]          This is true in regard to those who have done a work which God has not authorized them to do. The very work that should be done, brought to view in Isaiah 61:1-3, has been strangely neglected. Some have been very ready to pronounce judgment upon the work of their fellow men, because it did not exactly represent their ideas. But has God pronounced them infallible? The spirit they have manifested in pronouncing judgment upon God's messengers shows their fallibility and their ignorance, both of the Scriptures and of the power of God. These men are counterworking the work of God. They have felt at liberty to make decisions and laws which would bring talent under their jurisdiction. They have placed themselves in the judgment seat, to control their fellow men. But has                                          -201-     God appointed them to do this work? He would say of them, "What doest thou here? Who sent you on this journey? Who gave you this errand to perform? Who made you a critic and judge on matters of doctrine? Who appointed you to pick and to choose the words and expressions which My servants shall use?"  {17MR 200.2}
[17MR 201.1]          God is true. God is trustworthy. He speaks to men, and moves upon human hearts. The very words you would cut out of their articles are, it may be, the very words God has said should be written. God has been imparting light to His people in large measure; and He has not set up an acquisition at Battle Creek to decide questions which should be taken to Him. He does not design that those to whom He has given His Holy Spirit shall be worked by men who need a much larger measure of the grace of God before they can decide what is truth and what is error.  {17MR 201.1}
[17MR 201.2]          It has been the misfortune of some in Battle Creek to be afflicted with a defective eyesight. Like the Jews, they see everything in the light of their own understanding. But does this prove them to be infallible? This spirit, cherished, ruined the Jewish nation, and God will not sanction it in any of His professed people. Men need to pray for the heavenly enlightenment. God calls upon all, high and low, to fasten their eyes upon an uplifted Saviour, and make their souls secure by being clothed in the garments of His righteousness.  {17MR 201.2}
[17MR 201.3]          I have been shown that the ability and talents of every man are entrusted to him by God, and that men are never to be so controlled that they will express and act another man's mind. God has given every man his work. To one He gave five talents, to another two, to another one. To each individual is entrusted some peculiar gift. Every man, woman, and child is in possession of varied talents which may be sanctified to the Master's use, and for which he is responsible to God, the donor.                                           -202-  {17MR 201.3}
[17MR 202.1]          To be talented is not to be applied to a favored class whose privilege it is to look down upon others as being deficient in tact and intellect. The whole family of God is entrusted with talents; they are responsible agents, and are to trade upon the Lord's goods, and learn to acquire more. God will bless all who will use the abilities which He has entrusted to them. If they are faithful and humble, realizing their dependence upon Him to whom they must render an account of their mental and physical endowments, they will receive wisdom from Him, as did Daniel, who looked to God for wisdom and then put into exercise every power that God had given him, until he became a trusted man in the kingdom of Babylon.  {17MR 202.1}
[17MR 202.2]          From the lowest and most obscure to those highest in position, each one has his place in the family of God. Each one has been entrusted with gifts. He is to make the most of his talents, putting them out to the exchangers. The smallest gift should not be ignored or despised. It is not the number of talents that makes men valuable in the sight of God, but the way in which they appreciate and employ their talents. God's gifts are not to be used to glorify self. They must be prized as His gifts, and sacredly consecrated to His glory.  {17MR 202.2}
[17MR 202.3]          While probationary time lasts, men should work the works of God, "for the night cometh, when no man can work." God requires of every one vigilant work, combined with faithful waiting and watching. Working alone will not do. Bustle and continual activity are not enough to satisfy the requirements of God. We must "rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him." We must not move hurriedly. We must work and watch and pray and wait.  {17MR 202.3}
[17MR 202.4]          God's children must cultivate personal piety. With humble, contrite hearts they must cherish the love of God, fearing to walk contrary to His will and way. They must be active in every line of service, "not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord." With unceasing watchfulness and sincere, earnest                                        -203-     prayer, they must keep their lamps trimmed and burning. Every opportunity that presents itself to serve God must be improved. By use our gifts will increase. Christlike virtues are active. The talents are exemplified by representing Christ in every line. This is Christian character, shining in Christian virtues. This is Bible religion. "Take heed to thyself, and to the doctrine." The neglect of personal piety will make the most so-called splendid endowments of no value in the sight of God. The most splendid service so-called is nothing to Him unless soul, body, and spirit are devoted to His service.  {17MR 202.4}
[17MR 203.1]          The responsibility of each soul is measured by the endowment of grace he has received from God. All are to be laborers together with God. Those who feel sure that they have large ability, that they have been entrusted with a great work, must reveal the character of that work. They may engage in many lines, they may lead a very busy life; but this is of no account with God. Are they yoked up with Christ? is the question God asks. Do they work in Christ's lines, or do they reveal their hereditary and cultivated tendencies?  {17MR 203.1}
[17MR 203.2]          "We are laborers together with God: ye are God's husbandry; ye are God's building." All are to labor as Christ labored, increasing in spirituality, and growing in wisdom and knowledge and "in favor with God and man." Growing--how? To the full stature of men and women in Christ.  {17MR 203.2}
[17MR 203.3]          But when a man in a position of responsibility grows in self-sufficiency, and lifts up his soul unto vanity, feeling the inclination to act as ruler toward any member of God's family, wait no longer, relieve him of his trust; for God is not with him. He will hurt souls. He is venturing a warfare at his own charges. He feels capable of doing a great work without Christ's help. He will exalt himself as a man of superior wisdom, who must be highly esteemed. He thinks that his brethren must do as he decides. God is given no                                        -204-     chance to work; for he will tell what this one shall do with his talents and what place that man must occupy, as if he were God. He will take it upon him to lord it over God's heritage. It is not safe to keep any such one in the work in which eternal interests are involved; for he will mingle selfishness, injustice, and unrighteousness with his service. He is a backslider from right principles, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from iniquity.  {17MR 203.3}
[17MR 204.1]          The Lord is now proving every man's fidelity. Some will surrender soul, body, and spirit to the Lord. The church is made up of large and small vessels, and a large revenue is brought to the Lord from the goods He has lent. But God alone can judge the capabilities of His servants. He alone has the power to discern the time and the talents employed for Him. If those entrusted with few talents are faithful in their work, they receive just as large a reward as the one to whom a larger number of talents was entrusted.  {17MR 204.1}
[17MR 204.2]          When men think that they can decide who has accomplished the most good, and treat God's workers accordingly, they often make serious mistakes. The man who is humble, and does his work as unto God and not to man, may not make as great a show as the man who is full of bustle and show; but his work counts for more. Often the one who makes a great parade calls attention to himself, interposing himself between the people and God, and his work proves a dead failure.  {17MR 204.2}
[17MR 204.3]          Those whom God has highly gifted carry a weight of responsibility which they must meet in the judgment. They are responsible for the improvement or the abuse of their talents. If the steward is not faithful, he will be challenged and condemned for corrupting his power and dishonoring his God. We are trading upon God's property. Are we presenting Christ in character? When we seek to reveal the character of Christ, accepting the gift of the Holy Spirit, God will work with us. We will be Christlike. No rebuffs, no harsh, stinging, condemnatory                                        -205-     words will come from our lips. We will not lock the door of our hearts against the Holy Spirit's entrance. When God works, we will not say, "It is fanaticism." No guile will be found on our lips. We will be holy in all manner of conversation, serving God with singleness of purpose. Then we shall be prepared for a pleasant day of reckoning.  {17MR 204.3}
[17MR 205.1]          In the day when God comes to make up His jewels, the works of every soul will stand out clearly and distinctly, not heaped together in an indiscriminate mass. He who bestowed the gift will scrutinize the returns received from every talent. He knows just what men have done, and will reward them accordingly. Happy will be those to whom the words of commendation are spoken, "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."  {17MR 205.1}
[17MR 205.2]          The trouble with those in Battle Creek is that they have forgotten that God is not dependent on their fluency or on their business ability. God could do more for them were their hearts humble and contrite; for He can use such workers, while the self-sufficient He cannot use. God will select whom He will for His work. The Lord Jesus when on earth selected fishermen, whom He knew would be willing to be molded. He did not measure their efficiency by their knowledge of grammar or by their business ability, but He prayed to His Father, "This is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent."  {17MR 205.2}
[17MR 205.3]          There is a diversity of gifts. If those who have received many talents feel the need of keeping proportionately near the Saviour, of keeping closely yoked up with Christ, if they understand that they must live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God, their endowments will be used in such a manner that they will be a rich blessing to their fellow men. But men have been                                         -206-     proved in Battle Creek, and it has been made manifest that they have not all been "diligent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord." They have been ready to tell this man what he must do, and that man what he must not do, and so the ordering and directing has gone on. They have made rules and resolutions and agreements with their fellow men, only to change and break them, to promise and not perform. Yet notwithstanding their failure to practice well-defined, Christian principles, they have been anxious for more power, anxious to take more responsibilities.  {17MR 205.3}
[17MR 206.1]          God has written in the books of heaven, "Weighed in the balances, and found wanting." Many have given abundant evidence of their selfishness. They have placed themselves as judges, to judge their fellow men. Yet their cruelty and injustice have not been sufficiently discerned to enable those connected with them to see to what a pass we are coming. God is displeased. His anger is kindled against the men who have acted as gods. Like the Jews, they have been loading the cloud of vengeance, which must at last break upon them. Unless they shall now understand that the souls of men are not given into their hand, that they cannot act out their selfish, avaricious covetousness under the plea that it is for the cause of God, there will be no remedy for them.  {17MR 206.1}
[17MR 206.2]          Wake up, brethren, wake up, before it is too late for your characters to be changed. "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］.--Letter 7, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Letter.                                    -207-  {17MR 206.2}
[17MR 207.1]                                EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 207.1}
[17MR 208.1]       MR No. 1270 - The Work in England; Leaders to Walk With Fear and Trembling Before God, Leading People to the Cross and the True Shepherd         (Written August 27, 1898, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, to "Dear Brother and Sister Prescott.")            I have been very desirous that you should visit us in Australia again. It would be pleasing to us if for a time you could stand as principal of our school. I have hoped this might be. But again, I have desired that you might stand in the school at Battle Creek. Then Europe with all its necessities has come before me, and I have kept quiet, believing that you are in the place where you are most needed. England has had few enough laborers. It is a place where those who labor need to push at every step. You need to act as if you meant that something should give way and move. Aggressive warfare alone will prove successful. I am really pleased that you are there, and yet I would be so glad could you have carried our school through one term, if no more. God help you, is my most earnest prayer.  {17MR 208.1}
[17MR 208.2]          Present Truth is an important paper, and you are at home in working as best you can with that. The Lord would have advance moves made in England. He desires that a school shall be established there, and this no one can do as well as yourself.  {17MR 208.2}
[17MR 208.3]         Time is short, and that work which is essential must be done quickly. Satan has seen this, and he has worked with his deceptive, intriguing power to entangle everything in America so that the work that you and others could and should have done has been made impossible. And the work which should have been done in England has been blocked by the very same power that has swayed things                                         -209-     in America. The wisdom of men disconnected and out of touch with the wisdom of God, the spirit of arbitrary authority which has manifested itself so decidedly in America, has not been confined to that country but has extended its power to leaven other countries. I am afraid of the men who have moved like blind men. The cause and work of God demands men who will attend to the work God has given them; and had this been the case, men would have listened to the counsel of God, and not to the wisdom of fools, wise only in their own conceits.  {17MR 208.3}
[17MR 209.1]          Morning after morning I awake at 2 a.m., and often at 12 p.m. ［midnight］. During the night season has been presented before me the unfaithfulness of men who have occupied positions of responsibility at the great heart of the work. The councils at this great center, if kept pure and uncorrupted, would have been as the voice of God; but men have worked upon principles that are condemned by the word of God, and they have not heard nor obeyed the voice of God. Like Jehu, they have driven furiously in a course to uproot the confidence of God's people in men who are true to the Master's cause. They have sought to establish their own authority, while betraying the cause of God. While making decisions, and devising and planning, they have tried to make their oppressive human orders as the voice of God to His people.  {17MR 209.1}
[17MR 209.2]         My spirit burns within me as these things are revealed to me, and I cry to God in an agony of remorse, because of those who have pursued this course and who feel no remorse, because of their heedless disregard of right principles. At this time above all others the paths of life are beset with perils that I cannot find language to describe. In a single departure from the path of sanctified principle, Satan obtains an advantage, and he leads on and on, farther and farther from right and truth. God calls every man and women who has any connection with His cause and work at this time to walk with fear and                                         -210-     trembling before Him, lest self become interwoven with His work, and they be led to neglect the very things that require careful, prayerful watching and consideration.  {17MR 209.2}
[17MR 210.1]          With many neglect of the smaller matters leads to unfaithful stewardship, until the highest claims of duty are unrecognized. They want to devise some very wonderful thing, to do something that will astonish but not reform. But if we would attain to the highest education, we must be sure that the smaller matters are not neglected in order that we may grasp and do great things. If in the fear of God we are faithful in the performance of the little things, the larger responsibilities will be light to handle.  {17MR 210.1}
[17MR 210.2]          When those in high places of trust do not consider it essential to be true as steel to principle, true to their fellow men, they will not be true to God, the highest sovereignty. If those who are entrusted with responsibilities in high places take as their guide human beings who have no connection with God, they will make shipwreck of the work in every line they handle. Not for any soul living, be they young or old, is there security from the temptations of Satan, and those who choose to bind up with unholy men will imbibe their spirit and bear similar fruit. The only safety for any one of us is in walking humbly with God, in going where the Master leads the way. There is always safety and protection in obeying a "Thus saith the Lord."  {17MR 210.2}
[17MR 210.3]          Men may err unwittingly. The most conscientious will make mistakes and take missteps, because they do not heed the counsel given; but in every case beware of the men who oppose the spirit of truth and righteousness. Keep close in confidence and friendship to those who have never betrayed the cause of God. They only are safe who wear the yoke of Christ and lift His burdens--not burdens which have been manufactured by themselves or by someone whom they know has no                                     -211-     connection with God and who is working contrary to His way and will, but the burdens of Christ. They only are safe who learn of Christ His meekness, His lowliness of heart.  {17MR 210.3}
[17MR 211.1]         We need to pray without ceasing. Let the heart long after God. Let the heart go out in daily, hourly prayer, believing, trusting, holding on to the promise, saying as did Jacob, "I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me"; ［and saying as did David］, "Hold up my goings in Thy path." O God, "that my footsteps slip not" into the pitfalls which men have dug for my feet. ［Psalms 17:5］  {17MR 211.1}
[17MR 211.2]          The removal of one safeguard from the conscience, the failure to do the very thing that the Lord has marked out, one step in the path of wrong principle, often leads to an entire change of the life and action. It is a terrible thing for men standing in responsible positions not to understand when to say Yea, and when Nay. Satan has used men to deceive, to allure, to betray souls that they may obtain some selfish purpose. God says, "My people have been deceived by men who forget God, who walk contrary to His word, who have felt they have no need of light from above, and who have walked in slippery paths." It is no longer safe for human souls to follow human devisings. We are safe only in following where Christ leads the way. The path will grow clearer, brighter and brighter, unto the perfect day.  {17MR 211.2}
[17MR 211.3]          The apostle Paul says: "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure" ［Philippians 2:12, 13］. Man's business is to work in cooperation with God. Alone, his feet will slip in apparently the safest path. We cannot walk one step safely in mere human wisdom. If we would walk without fear, we must know that the hand of Jesus Christ holds our own firmly. And we can know this                                        -212-     only by searching the Word of the living God. Paul's charge to Timothy is: ［1 Timothy 4:9-16, quoted］.  {17MR 211.3}
[17MR 212.1]          The heart of infinite love pities those who are in perilous places--when He sees men exalt by word, by confidence, by action those who have faith in human law and force, who have no pity and who cannot discern the sufferings of the needy, to whom souls may cry in their agony of distress but whose hearts remain as hard as adamant. We may turn away from this picture, and look to God, and Him alone. God desires that men shall feel their dependence upon Him, and trust to that Hand that can save to the uttermost, that Heart that throbs in response to the appeals of suffering humanity. We must not trust in man, or make flesh our arm. Our trust must be placed in a Hand and a Heart that is warm with life, that throbs with love for the helpless.  {17MR 212.1}
[17MR 212.2]                                                              September 1, 1898        I have just been having some conversation with Elders Daniells, Starr, and W. C. White. We were considering matters relating to our school: Who shall be preceptor the next term. My mind at once referred to you, but W. C. White said, "I wish we could, but we dare not urge him away from Europe. England is almost destitute of workers."  {17MR 212.2}
[17MR 212.3]          I knew the situation, and dared not express anything farther. W. C. White then presented the situation of Europe, and how very much Brother Prescott was needed in England, saying that he could advance the work and the school which is to be established there. The time for this has fully come. The want of means is the objection, but the work must advance. Men must go to England to help there in the work. "We must," said W. C. W., "hold up the hands of Brother Prescott. We must make every effort and see that means is sent to England without delay." Be of good courage in the Lord, my brother. A work is to be                                       -213-     done in England. God will help you and Elder Waggoner to do this work, and others will be added to your number.  {17MR 212.3}
[17MR 213.1]          As I consider the past history of our people in Battle Creek, I suffer intense agony of soul. It seems, if I could, that I would roll back the years that have been, and blot them out from their history. Very recent transactions tell us that those who have not yet learned their lesson, who have not had a depth of experience in the things of God, have come forward with their bold words. They are fluent in words but destitute of true understanding. True education would teach them to listen to the words of wisdom, "Be still, and know that I am God." Their words have been like a brawling brook; lacking depth, it makes the most noise.  {17MR 213.1}
[17MR 213.2]          But the Lord has not left His people. He will work with each heart that turns fully to Him. Many of those who are so ready of speech are not under the inspiration of the Spirit of God. Will these ever learn from the lesson book to be doers of the Word? Striplings who have but a limited experience are coming to the front; and this is well if they have learned the meekness and lowliness of Jesus Christ.  {17MR 213.2}
[17MR 213.3]          The Highest, who was with the Father before the world was, submitted to humiliation; He clothed His divinity with humanity that He might lift up the lowly. Prophecy lifts the veil that we may behold the throne of heaven, that we may see upon that throne, high and lifted up, One who in human form came to our world to suffer, to be lacerated with stripes and bruised for our iniquities. The chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed. He proclaims Himself the Advocate of the sinful human family. Before all the universe of heaven the Lord of glory suffered in human form, that His love, as a mighty Helper, might flow in rich currents to all suffering human beings. He                                          -214-     cried out in His agony. He poured out His life on the cross for the one lost sheep.  {17MR 213.3}
[17MR 214.1]          And all heaven is enlisted in beseeching Christ's laborers to recover the guilty sheep that was lost. The lost sheep must be recovered. All the resources of heaven are at the command of the interested workers, that they may bestow them upon perishing souls. The Word declares that the Father has given all heaven in the great gift of His Son to seek and save that which was lost.        ［Zephaniah 3:16-20, quoted.］  {17MR 214.1}
[17MR 214.2]          The cross! the cross! it is set up that we may understand and know the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. It tells us of the depth and breadth of infinite love, the greatness of the Father's love. It reveals the astonishing truth that God the Father gave Himself in His Son, that He might have the joy of receiving back the sheep that was lost.  {17MR 214.2}
[17MR 214.3]          We will cooperate with God in leading back to His fold the lost sheep. Then, my brother, my sister, work on, I beseech you. By living faith lay hold of the power of divinity, and lead the sheep back to the Shepherd who gave His life for it. "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］.  {17MR 214.3}
[17MR 214.4]          The day is breaking, and I must stop for a little rest. But I want you to know that we sympathize with you and with Brother Waggoner.  {17MR 214.4}
[17MR 214.5]          We have no time to lose. While the day lasts, let us work to turn the wandering ones to the path of life. ［Jude 21-25, quoted］--Letter 71, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Letter.                                          -215-  {17MR 214.5}
[17MR 215.1]                                     EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 215.1}
[17MR 216.1]       MR No. 1271 - Concern Over the Leadership in Battle Creek; Plans for a Medical Institution In Cooranbong; Leaders to be Connected With God         (Written August 26, 1898, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, to "Dear Brother and Sister Waggoner.")            How much pleased I would be to see you and visit with you. I have so much desired that you would visit us in Australia; but it has been some years since I have considered the General Conference as the voice of God, and therefore I feel no desire to write, although again and again I have come to the point of requesting you to make a visit to Australia. Cannot you do this? Please write us whether you can.  {17MR 216.1}
[17MR 216.2]          When I learned that Brother ［H. E.］ Robinson and his wife had been sent to England, I said, It is a mistake. He has not the qualifications that would be of use and benefit in Europe; for unless he can rule, he would ruin. Then his wife's influence would be a very wrong one. There is no light in her. She is a body of darkness, a channel through whom the enemy works, and that continuously. Who placed him in power? Why did they place him in that position? He has left his mark where it has done harm that will not be easily effaced. The Lord help and strengthen you against all such influences.  {17MR 216.2}
[17MR 216.3]         What is Elder Olsen doing in Europe now? I feel very sorry for him. I cannot feel in union with him, as I formerly did. He did not use aright the testimonies given me for him. He gave wrong impressions by selecting portions of the testimonies and making strong use of them, passing over the reproofs given to him and to others. I cannot place confidence in him. He                                           -217-     has oppressed his brethren by bringing in elements to work against those whom God was using to do His work. Will not God judge for these things? I hope that something will take place that will give me stronger faith than I now have in Battle Creek and the working of the cause of God in the institutions there. But as yet, I am in trouble of mind, sending over reproving messages for them. First one thing and then another works to hinder, and not to purify, the work.  {17MR 216.3}
[17MR 217.1]         I write to you now because I want you (and W. C. White is of the same mind) to visit us in Australia. We think Present Truth the best paper published by our people. We enjoyed Elder and Mrs. Prescott's visit here very much, and I was surprised that he did not remain in Battle Creek when he returned. It may be in the providence of God that he is where he is, but I do hope and pray that the Lord will adjust the work so that proper ones will take hold of it in Battle Creek.  {17MR 217.1}
[17MR 217.2]          I would be pleased to have you come here to Australia. This seems to be a new world. Great changes have been made here since we first broke the soil three years ago this coming September. We have had very close work in regard to means, and still have. We are hoping, eagerly hoping, that the Lord will hear our earnest prayers and furnish us means to build a hospital in Cooranbong. We need it so much. The poor people here know not how to take care of themselves. Sara McEnterfer is called out quite frequently to treat the sick. It is a great tax on her, and we can ill afford to have her away so much.  {17MR 217.2}
[17MR 217.3]          I have decided to walk out by faith and secure a site for a hospital. I shall send to America, asking the members of our churches to donate a dime each, and those whose hearts are willing, a larger sum; for this building we                                           -218-     must have, and we shall go to work to erect it just as soon as we can possibly obtain means. We shall build as cheaply as we can, and then this building will be succeeded by a better one. We can do scarcely anything for the sick unless we have a place in which they can be given treatment. We shall wait, and watch, and pray, trusting God's living word. We feel deeply the need of men to work and money to use.  {17MR 217.3}
[17MR 218.1]          Sunday, August 27. Today we are to ride to Wyee, a place about six or seven miles away, to visit the railway workers and speak to those who want to hear the words of truth. I have thought how profitable it would be to have minute men, laborers together with God, who would be instant in season and out of season. The Lord's work is not to stand on ceremony, with a precise time to be observed for every line of work. When a great and decisive work is to be done, God chooses men and women to do this work, and it will feel the loss if the talents of both are not combined.  {17MR 218.1}
[17MR 218.2]          God has divine methods. David expresses the ways of God. "O God, Thou hast taught me from my youth," he says, "and hitherto have I declared Thy wondrous works." He declares that though ［he is］ old and grey headed, his zeal has not diminished. He entreats the Lord not to leave him to his own wisdom, but to remain with him, that he may bear testimony to the youth that are springing up around him.  {17MR 218.2}
[17MR 218.3]          The Lord has a great work to be done, and He will bequeath the most in the future to those who have done the most in the present. The Lord chooses His own agents, and each day under different circumstances gives them a trial in His plan of operations. In each wholehearted, true endeavor to work out His plans, He chooses His agents, not because they are perfect, but                                           -219-     that, they may gain perfection of character through connection with His work.  {17MR 218.3}
[17MR 219.1]          Those in responsible positions who have the least conscientious scruples in reference to their own course of action are the ones who watch most jealously for the mistakes of others. Position does not make the man. Only by a living connection with God is the Holy Spirit implanted in the heart. Those who have this connection are faithful and true and will not betray holy trust.  {17MR 219.1}
[17MR 219.2]          The men whom God has called and chosen may, if they will, learn of Christ to be true. They may work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God that worketh in them to will and to do of His good pleasure. But when young men and young women begin to put on airs of importance, they are not looking to the Lord Jesus. They are not learning from Him to be meek and lowly. They form habits of arbitrary authority, and are full of conceit, full of boasting about what they are going to do, and what wonderful improvements they will make in advancement and growth.  {17MR 219.2}
[17MR 219.3]          They have not learned lessons from Christ, and they become so wise in their own conceit that they think they are on the topmost round of the ladder, but they have not placed their feet on the first round. They show that they cannot guide, with enlightened, sanctified intelligence, their own little bark of self. If they had learned this lesson, they would have learned how to deal with human minds.--Letter 77, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Letter.                                         -220-  {17MR 219.3}
[17MR 220.1]                                   EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 220.1}
[17MR 221.1]       MR No. 1272 - Bible Principles to Govern SDA Institutions; Conscience Accountable to God Alone; Unconverted Men Controlling Councils and Boards         (Written "To the General Conference and Our Publishing Institutions.")        In the General Conference the counsels of God have been set aside, and the counsels and wisdom of men have been relied upon. God has seen this, and He is displeased. The General Conference--what is it? what does it comprehend? Is it a General Conference, or is it something wrapped up and called by that name? With the exception of a limited number, the people who ought to know are not intelligent in regard to its workings. A few have managed matters according to their own judgment, and the people at large know scarcely anything of what is being done at the heart of the work, only as it is represented by the men who have not set the Lord ever before them.  {17MR 221.1}
[17MR 221.2]          As I was made to understand something of the management of the work in this great center, it was all that I could bear. My spirit was pained within me, for I had lost confidence in that which I had ever presented before the people as the voice of God to His children. It has not been the voice of God. There has been a lording power exercised over God's heritage in decisions which were not dictated by the Spirit of God. Unconsecrated men who were brought in connection with the work have exercised their own wisdom, and have woven into the work their own unconverted peculiarities. Their own principles have been counterworking the principles of truth and righteousness. We cannot therefore present before the people that the voice of the General Conference in its decisions must move and control them; for its propositions and decisions cannot                                          -222-     be accepted. They are not in the right line of progress. God is dropped out of their counsels.  {17MR 221.2}
[17MR 222.1]         Those who have questioned the policy of the lines pursued have been in the way of these supposed wise counsellors' accomplishing all that they desired, and some have been instructed that their talents were needed in some other place. They have been recommended to secure a healthful and better climate.  {17MR 222.1}
[17MR 222.2]          The Lord has need of faithful stewards in connection with His work, and this He has not had. There has been much confusion and evil working in the Committee and Board meetings. Suggestions have been made which, if men had not put out their own eyes, they would have easily discerned as wrong. The men who have devised and planned are not the ones who should have been in trust, for they were no more qualified to grasp and manage the large responsibilities than are children to guide the steamships over the broad ocean.  {17MR 222.2}
[17MR 222.3]          The men who are guiding and planning, who carry large responsibilities, have separated themselves from God, and the righteousness of true principles is not in them; and if their plans are not counterworked they will cause ruin. They have been very diligent in attending to matters which they had far better have left for God to handle. In the place of diminishing the cares, they were only increasing them.  {17MR 222.3}
[17MR 222.4]          It was God who gave knowledge to Daniel and his fellows. Those four companions were united in mind and judgment, for they depended on the counsel that was given by Christ as, enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, He led the children of Israel in the wilderness. He gave light in regard to the lessons that must be unwaveringly followed by those who would engage in His service. But at this stage of the work objectionable influences have come in to counterwork the work of God. The work of God has not been done according to His                                        -223-     purpose. The Lord's workmen must have their eyes anointed with the heavenly eyesalve, and then they will see light and truth in its importance and sanctifying character.  {17MR 222.4}
[17MR 223.1]          Many see in the light which God has permitted to shine upon His people nothing but objectionable darkness. Others decide that they will not be untrue to principle, but when temptation comes and the enemy presents methods of working that are entirely contrary to the word of God, they follow his suggestions and counterwork the very work that God would have them do for this time.  {17MR 223.1}
[17MR 223.2]          Thus it was that Satan presented his temptation to our first parents. He led them to believe that in disobeying the command of God a great good would be secured to them. The temptation was gilded with attractions, and our first parents yielded to it. Thus the seed of evil is cast into the soil, and by reasoning upon it the matter which once he regarded as decidedly opposed to the Scriptures, man begins to view in a more favorable light; and the tempter secures the once steadfast soul with the confederacies of evil.  {17MR 223.2}
[17MR 223.3]          Thus the work has gone forward till the tares have appeared. The harvest of corrupting influences does its work, and in the place of the fine gold of character being found in men in positions of trust, there are revealed principles which, if cherished, will bring disaster and defeat, spiritual blindness, nakedness, and despair.  {17MR 223.3}
[17MR 223.4]          Says the True Witness, "Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy. 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 angels." A few even in Sardis held fast their                                        -224-     integrity. Their only hope was in holding fast to God, and in these the promise will be fulfilled, "I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir" ［Isaiah 13:12］.  {17MR 223.4}
[17MR 224.1]          God holds responsible the men whom He has appointed to positions of trust. They are to conduct our institutions upon strictly Bible principles, in every line, in every branch. They are to educate those who are connected with them. They may be surrounded with ever increasing cares, but if they are looking to God in prayer, if they are seeking for the grace of Christ, they will have the help that they so much need. They will not be found unfaithful in their stewardship in large or small responsibilities, in spiritual or business lines.  {17MR 224.1}
[17MR 224.2]          In the early Christian church there were men who were true disciples of Christ. They met often together where prayer was wont to be made. They could only work to advance those principles that bore the signet of heaven. They first talked with God, ascertained what spirit they themselves were of; then they could closely and critically examine every point, every method, every principle in the light reflected from the Sun of Righteousness.  {17MR 224.2}
[17MR 224.3]          They did not accept strange fire. They took their fire from the divine altar. To them holy and just principles were sacred, and by cherishing these they kept themselves unspotted from the world. Ever looking to Jesus, they marked the spirit in which He worked, and followed His example. They gave to others the pure principles of the Word of God. This Word was their counsel, their guide, their close companion. To them the Scriptures were supreme authority. For every question agitated they had one standard to consult. It was not, "What saith men?" but, "What saith the Lord?"  {17MR 224.3}
[17MR 224.4]          Those who are constrained by the love of Christ will be faithful to the work and word of God. They will not be sluggards. They will not be                                         -225-     noncommittal. They will not be divided in their decisions and sentiments. They will be of one mind and one judgment, quick to detect errors and not slow to name them.  {17MR 224.4}
[17MR 225.1]          In order that no cheap, bungling work be brought into the cause of God, the true Christian is ever to feel that he is dependent upon his Maker. And he will not be ashamed to acknowledge his dependence. Like Daniel, he will not take credit to himself. He will give all honor to God, letting worldly men as well as his brethren know that he is depending upon the Lord and weeding out of his life everything that would grieve His Spirit. Like Daniel, he will improve every opportunity of adding to his acquirements. He will trade upon the talents the Lord has given him, after the holy principles laid down in the Word. And this will give him multiplied ability.  {17MR 225.1}
[17MR 225.2]          The man who magnifies his own office in working in any line to bind about the conscience of another, be he president of the General Conference, president of a smaller conference, or the elder or deacon or lay member of a church, he is out of God's line. The Lord has been dishonored by the misrepresentations that have weakened and discouraged some of His servants, and deprived them of the opportunity to employ their talents because they will not sell their conscience or their powers for other men to use. God desires that men shall stand in their own individual responsibility, and while they are consecrated to Him there will be unity in their diversity, as branches of the true Vine. But in the present condition of things, if one stands fast to his integrity, he is by some scorned, scouted, criticised, and dropped out if it can be brought about.  {17MR 225.2}
[17MR 225.3]          Brethren, God has given you no power to work in the lines in which you have worked. The Holy Spirit has not appointed you to any such position. Attend to your own soul's salvation. If you have not that wisdom which will lead you to                                          -226-     provide for your own future eternal good, how can you provide for others? How can you give right instruction to them?  {17MR 225.3}
[17MR 226.1]          If God gives a man wisdom, his course of action will be in harmony with the will of God, and those connected with him will have confidence in his wisdom to devise and plan for the progress and advancement of the work of God in saving souls that are ready to die. The apostle Peter says: ［2 Peter 1:2-9, quoted］.  {17MR 226.1}
[17MR 226.2]          Men who have been standing in stubborn resistance of the teachings of the Spirit of God have been honored as chosen men, as men qualified to run the work of God and to decide questions involving the highest responsibilities. They have been sent from place to place to give judgment in regard to matters which affect the future history of the work. But how can God look upon such a presentation as is now given at the great center of the work?  {17MR 226.2}
[17MR 226.3]          Those in our council meetings who are Christians will be thoughtful, serious, sober-minded, calm, and not easily thrown off their balance by the sweeping assertions and misrepresentations which they will have to meet, though there be one by their side who is led by the spirit of Satan to bring confusion and humiliation and defeat upon those who stand in vindication of the truth. Positive disrespect has been shown to these men as they have advanced their opinions in regard to the work, while those who have stood in opposition have not given an honest answer to prove why the position taken was not right. A sneer goes a long way with some who are very sensitive, but let all remember that loud voiced reiteration of opinion is not evidence. Let all bear in mind that whatever men have said or ever may say is of value only as far as the Word of God can endorse and sustain their opinions. A jingle of words is only as chaff when compared to sound reasoning and sound principles. What is the chaff to the wheat?                                         -227-  {17MR 226.3}
[17MR 227.1]         The spirit of men has striven for the mastery against God. The man who trusts in man will receive the spirit and sentiments of men as wiser and safer than God's. But those who trust in God, who can, like Moses, come into the mount with God, will be kept by the power of God, calm and composed above the influence of the boisterous accusations and the shocks that ruffle and discompose the minds of men. Nothing can sway from right principles the men who will make the Word of God their guide. Ever before their minds is the question, "What is written in the law?" "How readest thou?" "What hath God said?" No word from men or from ministers in the highest position can make them set their feet in questionable paths. In earnest prayer with God they have shod their feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace.  {17MR 227.1}
[17MR 227.2]          The blessing of God can attend only the cleanest, purest work between man and his fellow man. But at the very heart of the work wrongs have been glossed over. Strict integrity has been turned aside, and dishonesty has taken its place. Men have not scrupled to conduct the work after their own defective planning. All this bears only too plainly the impress of human, erring wisdom. These men have no completeness of character in Christ, and nothing could be more unwise than to allow such men to be actively engaged in work that God has not demanded of them. Bible principles are not considered of sufficient consequence to demand forethought, earnest prayer in private. Close investigation of the work and its management is not considered needful.  {17MR 227.2}
[17MR 227.3]          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. Will the men who are handling large responsibilities read the first chapter of Joshua? ［Joshua 1:1, 5, 7, quoted.］                                        -228-  {17MR 227.3}
[17MR 228.1]          Do you think that all these charges would have been given to Joshua if there had been no danger of his being brought under misleading influences? 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. ［Joshua 1:8, 9, quoted.］ 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.  {17MR 228.1}
[17MR 228.2]          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 emergency, a stronger defense under any circumstance. Man cannot act more unwisely than to rely upon human wisdom, to devise and plan when Christ has said, "Without Me ye can do nothing" aright, to venture to unite with men who set aside the wisdom of God as unessential, and enter into plans devised by human agents who are worked by the enemy of righteousness. Human devices that should never have been allowed to come into existence have been adopted to escape from financial embarrassment. These will not help the matter, but make it tenfold worse. We are not to trust to the wisdom of men whose management has helped to bring about the difficulties.  {17MR 228.2}
[17MR 228.3]         God declares, "Them that honor Me, I will honor." God's revealed will has been superseded by the speculations and opinions of finite men who have refused the Holy Spirit's working and called His work fanaticism. How often have you changed the working of the Sentinel? Will you attend to matters in your own line, and let God manage this organ? The Word of God has not been taken into your council meetings; for had this been followed you would have had your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. You would have walked in                                        -229-     straight paths. But men have foolishly trusted to finite wisdom. They have adopted theories and plans that are opposed to the Word of God, and have greatly marred His work. Yet they act like blind men. They work desperately to gather all the responsibilities they can grasp, while they are no more able to manage them than are children.  {17MR 228.3}
[17MR 229.1]          In your conference meetings there were heard pleasant presentations in regard to the consolidation of the Pacific Publishing House with the publishing interests at Battle Creek. This, it was proposed, should not interfere with their independence and rights, but that the General Conference should be to the interests on the Pacific Coast what fathers and mothers are to their children. These were very pleasant presentations; but I was carried into the future and was shown those who sanctioned these principles laying plans to control the work on the Pacific Coast. I was shown that if this plan were adopted, the publishing interests there would be swallowed up by the methods and plans of those who wanted more power, who were contending as to who should be first, who should carry the greatest honors, who should have the supremacy.  {17MR 229.1}
[17MR 229.2]          You cannot relieve your present embarrassment by loading down, but by unloading. The word of the Lord was given, "Attend to your own work faithfully, and take your hands off that which the Lord has appointed for the Pacific Coast." And again, "Warn them upon the Pacific Coast not to entangle themselves in anywise, nor bind upon themselves obligations which will place them in bondage to any man or council."  {17MR 229.2}
[17MR 229.3]          "Come out from among them," God says, "and be ye separate, . . . 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" ［2 Corinthians 6:17, 18］. We all need a Father with whom to consult. The Holy Spirit has been                                        -230-     refused by men who are puffed up with vain conceit and believe themselves capable of managing wonderful responsibilities. The men who have chosen to be a light unto His people have acted as if their lamps, lighted from the divine altar, had gone out.  {17MR 229.3}
[17MR 230.1]          For years the Lord has given light which is unheeded. Men may fast and pray and have every appearance of sanctity, but it will disappear as frost before the sun if they continue to dishonor God as Eli dishonored Him in sanctioning wrong influences and accepting wrong principles, and turning from the light that God has given.  {17MR 230.1}
[17MR 230.2]          To the men who handle God-given responsibilities, the Bible must be more than a collection of syllables and words. The Spirit of God has been grieved from many who have had great light. But is it always to be so? God will not have His word return unto Him void. He will make it a power, a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death.  {17MR 230.2}
[17MR 230.3]          There are men in responsible places who have but a limited knowledge of what the soul demands. Men are placed there who are deficient in many ways. But the most dangerous men in all our ranks are those who do not work righteousness. The Holy Spirit does not work them. They are worked by a power from beneath. And yet these men suppose that they can manufacture laws and rules, build up and tear down, and carry all they can grasp under their own control, without God. They should tremble and be afraid because of their course of action.  {17MR 230.3}
[17MR 230.4]          If our people were not blinded by deception they would see that these men are walking contrary to God. God has been speaking to them by His Word, through His testimonies, by His Spirit. Why do they not take heed? They have closed their eyes that they should not see, and their ears that they should not hear.                                        -231-     They have rushed madly on in their uncontrollable spirit, unsanctified and separated from God; and yet they suppose that they can bring God's people to their terms and under their control.  {17MR 230.4}
[17MR 231.1]          Cannot our people understand that when men's lips speak proudly and they seek to rule their fellow men, when their resolutions and principles are decidedly contrary to the Word, to turn away from justice and equity, and when they treat their fellow men unjustly, they are walking away from God? Brother----, how could you give your sanction to the methods that have had a place in the work, and which have caused God's workers to be treated as inanimate machines? God abhors your practice.  {17MR 231.1}
[17MR 231.2]          When the consolidation was first devised, it was represented as altogether another thing. But the enemy saw that this was his chance to work upon human minds. He prepared a confederation that the Battle Creek institutions might be the power to bring under its control all other lines of work. It cannot be done. God will put a voice in the stones to cry out against it. Unconverted men have had altogether too much to do in molding and fashioning the work at Battle Creek--in erecting large buildings to make a display, to "give character to the work." Piety, true fear and love of God alone, can give stability of character to the cause of truth.  {17MR 231.2}
[17MR 231.3]          Unless they fall on the Rock and are broken, it is impossible for the men who have been under the leavening influence of those who have separated themselves from God to see and work on correct principles. Unless they obtain an experience in how to control their own spirit, they cannot manage any religious interest; for they are unable to judge righteously and unselfishly.  {17MR 231.3}
[17MR 231.4]          The refuge of lies will fail. God will strike a blow to deliver His oppressed people. He will raise up humble men to do His will. He who rules                                     -232-     among the nations calls upon those at the heart of the work to "be still, and know that I am God." Men will find ere long that they cannot trample on God's holy precepts without incurring the punishment. The Lord will not be slow to punish those who have had great light and yet have betrayed Him. His eye has been reading the transactions that have been stealing through the unconsecrated elements in councils and board meetings in our institutions. "Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment," He says, "in meteyard, in weight, and in measure" ［Leviticus 19:35］. "By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honor, and life" ［Proverbs 22:4］. "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" ［Hebrews 13:5］.  {17MR 231.4}
[17MR 232.1]          Men have walked contrary to the light. They have extinguished their light, and yet have dictated with their strong spirit how matters should be, as if God had given the special control over all His heritage, to forbid or sanction, to oppress, to speak proudly, to put forth the finger unto vanity, to walk in a false show as mighty men. Shall not God judge for these things? Is prosperity to come to God's institutions and work by building upon the ruins of truth, of righteousness, of justice, of all that is pure and holy?  {17MR 232.1}
[17MR 232.2]          Do those who know the truth and have a knowledge of God suppose that men who have turned away from truth and righteousness and are filled with a sense of their own importance, can invent safe methods for carrying on the work? This is what it means, and the sooner this bubble blown by Satan is burst, the better it will be for the healthfulness of all our institutions. When the very heart of the work is diseased, its action must be uncertain, fitful, unreliable. It is time we had an investigation before as many people as possible. All who are                                         -233-     helping to sustain the work should get together and understand its inward workings.  {17MR 232.2}
[17MR 233.1]          I must speak plainly. We are reaching a time when a just standard of right and wrong, of honor and dishonor, of truth and error, is becoming a thing of naught. "Truth is fallen in the streets, and equity cannot enter." In the ambitious projects invented, there ［is danger］ of losing all sense of distinction between right and wrong. Those who listen to misrepresentations are supposed to be acting for the cause. For a long time a course has been pursued which has perverted principle and justice. We need men who will not be drawn into secret, underhand confederacy, but who will shun as a sin the least intriguing and underhand work--men who will call things by their right name, men who are barricaded by principle and braced for duty, be it pleasant or unpleasant, men whom neither flattery, pretense, cunning, nor art could induce to swerve one hair from principle or duty.  {17MR 233.1}
[17MR 233.2]          It is a great dishonor to prevaricate, to falsify, to come to terms with men because they have spoken that which is not true, for the love of a little money to degrade the soul. The Word of God condemns all such practice. It is a common thing with some to sacrifice conscience in order to obtain an advantage or to be thought greatest. The man who sits at the feet of Jesus and learns His lessons will say as did one of old, "Unto their assembly, mine honor, be not thou united."  {17MR 233.2}
[17MR 233.3]          Those who in heart are not united to the truth pride themselves upon the great show of buildings in the publishing house. Though habituated to handling divine interests, the sacred has no more virtue to them than the common, and they do many things deceitfully. They do not bring the sacred Word of God to                                         -234-     their lips to feed upon it as upon heavenly manna. They may talk the most pointed truth, but they do not love or practice its principles.  {17MR 233.3}
[17MR 234.1]          The Word of God is to be our teacher. It is the voice of God speaking to our hearts. But the principles that God has given us--principles of strictest integrity--have been discarded. The deceitful heart has been consulted, and the Wonderful, the Counsellor, who alone can keep the soul pure, has been rejected. The transactions of the past years should be presented before those who should know the inward workings. Little by little have the barriers been broken away, showing that the foundation of the structure is built upon the sand. The Bible and the Bible alone must now be laid up in the heart. It must be cherished and regarded as the voice of God, for it alone can make men right and keep them so.  {17MR 234.1}
[17MR 234.2]          Every earthly influence is weak when compared with the wayward heart of man. Unless the truth is cherished, unless it controls the whole man, conscience will be violated. When the Word of God abides in the soul, the heart is kept as a fountain of living water, refreshing and blessing all within the sphere of its influence.  {17MR 234.2}
[17MR 234.3]          The lessons we are to learn from the existing state of things in the publishing institution is that any resistance against the Holy Spirit in any of its workings is dangerous. No one should lose his confidence in the validity of the truth, for the showing at the present time is a positive testimony to the power of the truth in its influence upon human hearts, and proves that truth alone is the bread of life. Truth must be enthroned in the heart and maintained in the conscience as the savor of the whole man and the saviour of many souls.-- Manuscript 66, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Manuscript.                                        -235-  {17MR 234.3}
[17MR 235.1]                                   EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN".--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 235.1}
[17MR 236.1]       MR No. 1273 - Satanic Publications in SDA Publishing Houses; Joshua, the High Priest, Being Accused         "And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication" ［Revelation 14:6-8］.  {17MR 236.1}
[17MR 236.2]          "And the third angel followed them." The first and the second angels' messages are of great importance, and are followed by the third angel's message. All three should be understood and combined. The warning contained in these messages means much more to the whole world than the majority of God's people comprehend. We are in the Lord's great day of preparation.  {17MR 236.2}
[17MR 236.3]         Satan is watching all the outposts to see where he can steal an entrance. For years he has been working with all his deceivableness of unrighteousness to find standing room in the Review and Herald publishing house. And he has found it. He has been allowed to come into the very place that should ever have been regarded as a sacred, holy place, the temple of God, from which the Lord would send forth clear, bright rays of light to all parts of the world. Satan has succeeded in placing in the hands of the employees of our publishing houses a class of literature that is prepared to deceive, if possible, the very elect.                                      -237-     Matter containing dangerous errors has been brought into our office of publication, and these errors have been perpetuated by being printed on our presses and published in book form. These principles of evil have influenced the minds of those who have handled this matter. As a result, souls will be lost to the cause of God. Already some have nearly lost their sense of discernment between truth and error.  {17MR 236.3}
[17MR 237.1]          Even the men who are endeavoring to exalt their own sentiments as wonderful science are astonished that men in positions of responsibility in our office of publication--a printing office set for the defense of the truth of God--have consented to print their books. To do this outside work, the managers of the publishing house have neglected to do the work that they should have been doing. The denominational work has been delayed, while the commercial work, which should ever be regarded as second in importance to our own work, has been made first. The employees have worked on books containing spiritualistic, demoralizing theories. They have spent their time on strange matter, much of which is filled with satanic science. ［VARIANT IN ANDREWS UNIVERSITY FILE COPY FOLLOWS THE WORDS "FILLED WITH SATANIC SCIENCE" ON PAGE 2 OF MS. 124, 1901, AND IS INCLUDED IN MS. RELEASE 390: "THEY HAVE NOT TAKEN THE LESSON OF NADAB AND ABIHU WHO CONFUSED THEIR SENSES BY THE USE OF WINE AND COULD NOT DISCERN BETWEEN THE SACRED AND COMMON FIRE.］  {17MR 237.1}
[17MR 237.2]         God has not appointed us to the work of publishing satanic theories. This class of literature has been represented to me as counterworking the means that should ever be used to meet the foe on his own ground. Books containing false theories have been permitted to come from an office controlled by Seventh-day Adventists, while the very books that the managers                                        -238-     should have been active and zealous in circulating everywhere have been left to lie unused on the shelves. When the pure truth is mingled with the slime of satanic deceptions, how can God work for the advancement of His cause?  {17MR 237.2}
[17MR 238.1]          The very fact that satanic literature has come from the presses of the Review and Herald Office, is a victory for the forces of Satan; for seemingly it bears the endorsement of the Office, and the enemy will use this fact to influence others to accept this objectionable matter. Satan is now working "with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish."  {17MR 238.1}
[17MR 238.2]          In the place of treating the commercial work as something of secondary importance, those in positions of trust have treated it as being of primary importance. Books that should have been circulated in these critical times have been put aside until the worldly work had first been finished. The very class of literature that God has especially condemned has been allowed to come in.  {17MR 238.2}
[17MR 238.3]          The introduction of this class of matter has been distinctly pointed out to me as the most effective way of demoralizing the apprentices. It reveals a decided lack in those who have to do with these questions. Some in responsible positions are not controlled by the Holy Spirit. The Lord regards as unfaithful stewards those who have agreed to take into the Office for publication this class of literature. The apprentices working in the Office have been left unguarded by unfaithful shepherds. Seeds of evil have been sown in the hearts of the apprentices and in the hearts of all who have handled this literature--seeds that will spring up and grow, "first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear." Thus error will continue to grow.  {17MR 238.3}
[17MR 238.4]         Why has this blindness been upon those to whom have been entrusted grave responsibilities in connection with our publishing houses? Why have they walked                                         -239-     like blind men? Because they have disregarded the light that God has given them; because they have heeded neither the Scriptures nor the testimonies of warning sent them. Have they put out their eyes, that they can neither see nor understand the warnings given in the Scriptures in regard to false science? Cannot they see the necessity of having clear spiritual discernment, that they may be able to choose the good and to reject everything that has a tendency to confuse the understanding?  {17MR 238.4}
[17MR 239.1]          Those who have handled these publications have been brought into close connection with unseen, satanic agencies. How many of those working on this pernicious matter put into their hands, have been contaminated! How many, because of their connection with the office of publication, have been injured seriously in their religious faith! In how many has confidence been weakened in the managers of the publishing interests! How many have had their faith undermined by receiving thoughts of infidelity in regard to the truth, instead of having their faith strengthened by receiving an increased knowledge of the last message of mercy to be given to the world!  {17MR 239.1}
[17MR 239.2]          To do the work that has been undertaken, it has been necessary to hire many apprentices. The apprentices received into our offices of publication should be given a careful, thorough education in the trade they desire to learn. And they should also be given instruction from the Word of God. But in the education of the young men and young women who have been brought into the Office there has been shown surprising looseness, carelessness, and inefficiency.  {17MR 239.2}
[17MR 239.3]          By many the Lord has been dismissed from the Office as unnecessary. Every moment devoted to religious instruction has been given grudgingly, and as though a timepiece were held in the hand, that the moments for the continuation of the service might be exactly counted. Some have treated the time thus spent as so                                         -240-     much lost time. Can we be surprised that the Lord is displeased? Can we wonder why there is a dearth of means? The Lord cannot prosper those who do a work such as has been done.  {17MR 239.3}
[17MR 240.1]         Some changes have been made. Last year there was a most remarkable revival meeting at the Pacific Press, in Oakland, in which many were converted. I know that the ministering angels of God were there. But our mind is not at rest. This meeting has been followed up by special work, but unless the workers themselves shall day by day be guarded, Satan will seek to regain his place of control, leading them in false paths and causing them to do a strange work.  {17MR 240.1}
[17MR 240.2]          "It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void Thy law." The law has been made void by those who have followed the wrong principles that have characterized the work for the past twelve years. As these things were presented before me in Australia, the whole of the third chapter of Zechariah was portrayed before me. These words were repeated: "And He showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, 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?"  {17MR 240.2}
[17MR 240.3]          Satan was accusing backsliding Israel. In like manner he purposes to point to the unprincipled proceedings of those who have had great light in these last days. He keenly observes the backsliding of those who have been placed at the head of the work--the very men who through communications have been informed that they were out of place and in error in representing the voice of the General Conference president as being the voice of God. For many years it has not been thus, and it is not thus now; nor will it ever be thus again, unless there is a thorough reformation.                                           -241-  {17MR 240.3}
[17MR 241.1]          After Satan leads men into wrong positions, he stands at the right hand of the angel as the adversary of man, to resist every effort made to save the purchase of the blood of the Lamb of God. The devil persecutes those whom he has caused to sin. He is the accuser of the brethren. Day and night he accuses them before God. This is his special work.  {17MR 241.1}
[17MR 241.2]          A perversion of right principles is a transgression of God's law. Those who in their actions pervert the grand principles of His holy law are under condemnation, for the righteousness of Christ cannot cover one unconfessed sin. The law has been lightly regarded. "Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil." We must obey God's law, if we are loyal to Him and accepted by Him.  {17MR 241.2}
[17MR 241.3]          The first step toward obedience is to examine ourselves in the light of the law, thus discovering the penalty of transgression. Those of God's people who do not purify their souls by coming into clearer and still clearer light are a reproach to His glorious cause. Too often those who should remain true and faithful to principle are obnoxious to God, because in His justice He cannot endure the sins that they cherish--sins that not only lead them into false paths but cause others also to be led astray.  {17MR 241.3}
[17MR 241.4]          Carefully reread these two verses: "And He showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, 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?" Joshua was the representative of an imperfect, sinful people, those who had become contaminated with sin. Satan accused Joshua of being a criminal. What, then, is the only hope of the people of God in their                                        -242-     defection of Christian character? Their only hope is reconversion, repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is made unto us righteousness and sanctification. In heaven Joshua was accounted as a justified sinner.  {17MR 241.4}
[17MR 242.1]          Here, then, comes in the Redeemer's work. Satan stood by the side of the angel as an adversary, to accuse Joshua as a transgressor of the law. This angel, who is our Saviour, was seen by John the Revelator and represented as standing in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the breast with a golden girdle. Christ is represented in actual ministry for His people, as was Joshua in the day of atonement in behalf of the children of Israel.  {17MR 242.1}
[17MR 242.2]          As at that time Satan pointed to the defilement of God's people and triumphed in their discomfiture, so he is doing now. Joshua was accused as a sinner; but Jesus Christ, the Sin-bearer, the Substitute for the offender, to whom all types point, cannot be thus accused. He is the one who takes away the sin of the repentant, believing transgressor. How sad it is that human agencies, by their loss of spirituality, make it possible for Satan to accuse them of being unworthy!--Manuscript 124, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Manuscript.                                           -243-  {17MR 242.2}
[17MR 243.1]                                     EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 243.1}
[17MR 244.1]       MR No. 1274 - God Calls Upon Workers To Be Producers, Not Consumers; Medical Missionary Work To Be Pursued; Study the Word         It should be made a part of gospel labor to help forward promising young men who give evidence that the love of truth and righteousness has a constraining influence upon them, leading them to dedicate themselves to the work of God, as medical missionaries, as canvassers, as evangelists. Let a fund be established to carry this work forward. Then let those who have received help go forth to minister to the sick and suffering. This work will surely open the way for the balm of Gilead to be applied to sin-sick souls.  {17MR 244.1}
[17MR 244.2]          Much instruction is given in the Scriptures regarding the necessity of the work of helping one another. When on earth our Saviour manifested the tenderest pity for physical suffering, and while giving physical relief He never failed to minister to the spiritual necessities. This example is to guide all who shall engage in God's service. His children are to follow in His footsteps.  {17MR 244.2}
[17MR 244.3]         The gospel is the manifestation of the grace of God to fallen man. Those who obey the Word of God will understand that by bearing much fruit they testify to the power of God. The tame, spiritless work which produces no fruit is no evidence of a living connection with God. Without heart religion, a love for God that is all-absorbing, how can men and women labor for souls, doing the work essential for genuine conversion? Until the heart is humble and contrite before God, until the sins which the Word of God denounces are put away, God's blessing cannot be given. Those who work successfully for God must learn the first principles of Christianity. Those who find that they do not love God with                                           -245-     heart, soul, strength, and mind, might better go "apart . . . and rest a while." They might better take up some other work until they breathe a higher, purer atmosphere; for God will not work with them until their hearts are purified through obeying His Word.  {17MR 244.3}
[17MR 245.1]          It is those who have the least evidence of the true working of the Spirit of God in their labors who feel the most self-exaltation. These will repress and count of little esteem those to whom God has given the precious truths for whom His flock is starving--the Bread of life, which will satisfy their soul-hunger.  {17MR 245.1}
[17MR 245.2]          There have been many who have not given encouragement to the principles of health reform. They have not encouraged the medical missionary work. Why? Let them answer this question themselves. They refused to become acquainted with the medical missionary work within their own borders. For no well-defined reason they brought it into disrepute, refusing to give it their sympathy and cooperation. The Lord has marked the motives of those who have bound about the work in its various lines.  {17MR 245.2}
[17MR 245.3]          Evangelistic work has been done by some who have not been regarded as qualified for the ministry. These persons have moved forward as the Lord has made known to them their duty, and have done a noble work. Brother _____ has been doing missionary work for many years. To all intents and purposes he has practiced the gospel. It is not sermonizing that makes a minister. This is where men have failed who from lack of spiritual discernment have failed to judge righteously. Brother _____ has established churches and built meetinghouses in various places. When he has in one place carried the interest as far as he felt warranted, he has passed on to another place to which the truth had never                                            -246-     been carried, leaving behind a large number converted to the truth, with a place of worship in which to meet.  {17MR 245.3}
[17MR 246.1]          Those who audit the accounts of the workers should not settle with such workers as Brother _____ according to the precise time they have spent in preaching sermons. Their practical work is of more value than any number of sermons, for it is the gospel lived, the gospel acted. The manner in which Brother _____ has been treated needs correction. The time he has spent in establishing schools and building meetinghouses is not to be counted out. In his practical work he was preparing minds to understand the truth as it is in Jesus. It is such men as this that God has honored. But the work He has originated and blessed men have passed by with scarcely a word of encouragement. Workers He has sent out have been settled with by the auditing committee in a way not proportionate to the work they have done.  {17MR 246.1}
[17MR 246.2]          The Lord calls for workers, not for sermonizers, for men who will do real work. The time is coming when we shall take a retrospective view of the work we have done in this life. Then every man's work will stand at its true value. Then those who have souls to show as a result of their labor will receive recognition from God.  {17MR 246.2}
[17MR 246.3]          If those who have criticized had gone forth into the dark places of the earth, where the light of truth has never shone, and had worked earnestly for the Master, they would today have been standing on vantage ground. God would have enabled them to do acceptable service for Him.  {17MR 246.3}
[17MR 246.4]          Many today are rejoicing in the truth, full of thankfulness and hope, who would never have been reached if the Lord had not put into the hearts of human instrumentalities a longing desire to save souls for Christ. He enabled them to impart a knowledge of the truth to other souls.                                             -247-  {17MR 246.4}
[17MR 247.1]          The field has been presented to me. Not a few, but many, souls will be saved as a result of men looking to Jesus for their ordination and orders. Such men have taken up work in the hardest parts of the field, and have labored successfully for the Master. What we need is men who will labor for those who know not the truth, who will go out to rescue those who are out of the fold.  {17MR 247.1}
[17MR 247.2]          Let our experienced ministers take young men with them into the field. The camp meeting season is right upon us. At these meetings men are to learn to labor for souls as they that must given an account. There are thousands and thousands dead in trespasses and sins. Thousands are passing into the grave unwarned and unconverted. Who will render an account for the many souls uncared for, without God and without hope in the world?  {17MR 247.2}
[17MR 247.3]          When ministers, teachers, and managers breathe the breath of God, a high and holy consecration will be manifest.  {17MR 247.3}
[17MR 247.4]          Men have lost the life of God by opposing those who have received a message from heaven. God calls for workers who will wrestle earnestly for the prize of eternal life. The Spirit of God must come to every gospel worker, to every church member, if those who are perishing in sin are ［to be］ saved to Christ. The crown of life is gained by those who run with patience the race set before them.  {17MR 247.4}
[17MR 247.5]          Brethren, God forbid that you should lose this prize. God is not pleased with your inefficiency. You are doing nothing to gain a high, noble spirituality. The torpor of spiritual death has been long upon you. It is not your orthodox theories, not your membership in the church, not the diligent performance of a certain round of duties, that gives evidence of life.  {17MR 247.5}
[17MR 247.6]          In an ancient tower in Switzerland I saw the image of a man moved by machinery. It looked like a living man, and I whispered when I came near, as if                                             -248-     it would hear me. But though the image looked lifelike, it had no real life. It was moved by machinery.  {17MR 247.6}
[17MR 248.1]          Motion is not necessarily life. We may go through all the forms and ceremonies of religion, but unless we are alive in Christ, our work is worthless. The Lord calls for living, truth-loving, Bible-believing Christians. There are hundreds who though professedly following the Lord, have no light from heaven to reflect to the dark parts of the earth. Oh, if we realized how the Lord looks upon the attitude in which some have stood for years, we would change at once, and earnestly seek the Lord.  {17MR 248.1}
[17MR 248.2]          I say to you in the name of the Lord, Repent, repent, repent. Humble your hearts as you have not done for years. God knows that you are in need of a power out of and away from yourselves. You should be alarmed at your deficiency and unChristlikeness. Be thankful that it is not too late for wrongs to be righted.  {17MR 248.2}
[17MR 248.3]          There are many in the ministry who are consumers and not producers. All have been bought with a price, and all should use in God's service the energy which they have received from Him. Christ says, "It is My Father's good pleasure that ye bear much fruit."  {17MR 248.3}
[17MR 248.4]          God desires His ministers to deal wisely with all who are connected with His work. He abhors careless dealing, giving faithful workers little reward, while those who produce nothing receive much.        ［Revelation 3:1-5, quoted.］  {17MR 248.4}
[17MR 248.5]          God calls for sincere, earnest, persevering laborers. We have considered the tithe to be a blessing. God forbid that through the perversity of men it should become a snare to those who receive it. It means much for men who are sustained by the tithe to be consumers and not producers, failing to show any                                             -249-     fruit for their labor. The workers must make a better record than they have done in the past. They are not doing justice to themselves or to the cause of God. Work, brethren. Go into the vineyard of the Lord and labor for souls. Consider no work too taxing. God sees that selfishness is being cherished by some who for years have been in the cause as paid workmen. They have wasted the opportunities given them. By inaction they have weakened their spiritual sinews and muscles.  {17MR 248.5}
[17MR 249.1]          Those who would become successful wrestlers must put to the tax brain, bone, and muscle. Improvement is needed in many lines of the work. New lines of work must be organized. New workers must go into the field to labor for souls. These workers are to dig in God's Word for the precious ore of truth. As they search the Word, the truth will appear to them in a new aspect.  {17MR 249.1}
[17MR 249.2]          "Search the Scriptures," said the divine Teacher; "for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me." "It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."  {17MR 249.2}
[17MR 249.3]          The members of the church of God need to be instructed and educated, line upon line, as a Bible class. Nine-tenths of our people, including many of our teachers and ministers, are content with surface truths.  {17MR 249.3}
[17MR 249.4]          In the Bible the truth is compared to "treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." He desires the privilege of searching every part of the field, that he may make himself the possessor of all its treasures. I call upon my brethren in the name of the Lord to sink the shaft deep into the mines of truth.                                             -250-  {17MR 249.4}
[17MR 250.1]          The Lord declares that His church is not to be governed by human rules or precedents. Men are not capable of ruling the church. God is our Ruler. I am oppressed with the thought of the objectionable human management seen in our work. God says, Hands off. Rule yourselves before you attempt to rule others. Strange things have been done, things that God abhors. For men to claim that the voice of their councils in their past management is the voice of God seems to me to be almost blasphemy.--Manuscript 35, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. July 9, 1987. Entire Manuscript.                                           -251-  {17MR 250.1}
[17MR 251.1]                                      EXPLANATORY NOTE          ［THE OPINIONS IN THIS DOCUMENT WERE EXPRESSED BY ELLEN WHITE AT A TIME WHEN ONLY A SMALL GROUP REPRESENTED THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AFTER THE GENERAL CONFERENCE WAS REORGANIZED IN 1901 TO PROVIDE BROAD REPRESENTATION, MRS. WHITE TOOK A DIFFERENT VIEW. AT THE 1909 GENERAL CONFERENCE SHE ENCOURAGED STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE. AT THAT SESSION SHE SAID: "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 AND 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 OF A GENERAL CONFERENCE COMPOSED OF AN ASSEMBLY OF DULY APPOINTED, REPRESENTATIVE MEN FROM ALL PARTS OF THE FIELD SHOULD NOT BE RESPECTED. GOD HAS ORDAINED THAT THE REPRESENTATIVES OF HIS CHURCH FROM ALL PARTS OF THE EARTH, WHEN ASSEMBLED IN A GENERAL CONFERENCE, SHALL HAVE AUTHORITY. . . . LET US GIVE TO THE HIGHEST ORGANIZED AUTHORITY IN THE CHURCH THAT WHICH WE ARE PRONE TO GIVE TO ONE MAN OR TO A SMALL GROUP OF MEN."--TESTIMONIES, VOL. 9, PP. 260, 261. SEE FURTHER THE EARLY ELMSHAVEN YEARS, BY A. L. WHITE, PP. 75-94, 108-110.］  {17MR 251.1}
[17MR 252.1]       MR No. 1275 - Christ Understands Humanity's Need for Food; Health Food Business Has Potential for Helping God's Cause         (Written January 29, 1902, from St. Helena, California, to J. E. White.)          Read carefully the sixth chapter of John. Today Christ is the same compassionate Saviour. He did not overlook the physical needs of the hungry multitude that had followed Him in their eagerness to hear from His lips words of life. How wonderful is this record of the Saviour's ministry! After every one of the multitude had been fed, the Lord Jesus said to the disciples, "Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten."  {17MR 252.1}
[17MR 252.2]          By this the Lord shows us the importance of exercising care not to allow anything to go to waste. By His creative power He increased the five barley loaves and two small fishes so that there was sufficient food for all on that occasion. But although He could provide any quantity of food necessary for His people, yet He gave direction that every fragment should be gathered up.  {17MR 252.2}
[17MR 252.3]         If the Lord Jesus could by increasing the supply of food meet the necessities of five thousand hungry men, besides women and children, on that occasion, He will at the present time impart knowledge to His people in different places, whereby in various ways they will be provided with food. His hand of benevolence is not stayed.  {17MR 252.3}
[17MR 252.4]          By this miracle the Lord Jesus desired to give the people a spiritual lesson. The next morning many who had heard of the miracle went out to search                                           -253-     for Christ. Going to the place where the miracle had been performed, they found neither Jesus nor His disciples.  {17MR 252.4}
[17MR 253.1]          "When the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither His disciples, they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus. And when they had found Him on the other side of the sea they said unto Him, Rabbi, when camest Thou hither? Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek Me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not ［that is, bestow not your chief labor; make it not a matter of anxiety］ for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed.  {17MR 253.1}
[17MR 253.2]          "Then said they unto Him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him whom He hath sent. They said therefore unto Him, What sign showest Thou then, that we may see, and believe Thee? what dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father giveth you the true bread from heaven."  {17MR 253.2}
[17MR 253.3]          Those who had followed Christ referred to the standing miracle of the manna given to the Israelites in the wilderness during the time when, as the psalmist states, "Man did eat angels' food." They are desirous of knowing whether Christ would continue to provide His followers with plenty of palatable food, as He had provided food for the children of Israel in the wilderness.                                           -254-  {17MR 253.3}
[17MR 254.1]          From Christ's answer we may draw a lesson that we should learn. He is not unmindful of the physical wants of His followers. He will provide food to satisfy bodily necessities. But He teaches us that the spiritual food which He provides is of far more consequence to us than is temporal food. He teaches us to have far more anxiety to secure the living bread that endureth unto eternal life, than to secure perishable bread for physical sustenance. He teaches us that the bread from heaven can be obtained from no human agent. Through the gift of Christ, God Himself gives to man this living bread. "For the bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto Him, Lord, evermore give us this bread."  {17MR 254.1}
[17MR 254.2]          To emphasize this lesson, Christ declared: "I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst."  {17MR 254.2}
[17MR 254.3]          All the gifts of God come to us through Jesus Christ. In giving His Son to our world, God gave all heaven. And in everything connected with the health food business, God is the One who is to be honored and glorified. The Lord Jesus Christ desires all to understand His declaration, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth."  {17MR 254.3}
[17MR 254.4]          Concerning the food question in the Southern field: If the committee of the Southern Union Conference desire to handle the manufacturing of health foods for the benefit of the cause in the Southern field, and thus help that field; and if they have the proper men to undertake this work, let the whole union conference take hold of this work with unselfish interest, and let Edson and Brother Palmer keep to the work of publishing the truth. If these brethren can successfully carry forward the work in the publishing line, that is all that it is well for                                           -255-     them to attempt to accomplish, taking into consideration their state of health. Both have been under a great strain.  {17MR 254.4}
[17MR 255.1]          In this movement on the part of the Southern Union Conference to take hold of the manufacture and sale of health foods, I can see the possibility of establishing an industry that would help the cause in the Southern field. I hope that no ill feelings will be created over this matter. All that men as missionaries for God can do for the Southern field, should be done.  {17MR 255.1}
[17MR 255.2]          There must be no misunderstanding, my son, in regard to the words I spoke to you just as I was leaving Nashville. My remarks were in reference to the way the work has been carried on heretofore. I have no special light with reference to particulars in detail, or concerning the point of who should carry the responsibility of manufacturing health foods in the Southern field. But the light given me is that it should not be, and must not be, carried on in the Southern field in the way in which it is now being done. The light I have had is that in every effort made to manufacture health foods in the Southern field, the business should be conducted not as a speculation for personal benefits, but as a business that God has devised whereby a door of hope may be opened for the people.  {17MR 255.2}
[17MR 255.3]          If in connection with providing the common foods, the health foods that Dr. Kellogg is selling could be supplied without the objections I tried to specify in a letter to him, of which you have a copy, then let the Southern field have the benefit of the profits on these productions to sustain the work there. But you will not be able to carry both of these responsibilities--the publishing work, and the manufacture and sale of health foods. Brother Palmer has a feeble hold on life. It is necessary for him to be most careful in regard to his diet,                                          -256-     and he is often in need of special treatment. You yourself are in danger. Your nervous system needs careful guarding. Emma needs great care. But the Lord will be with you, if you will be with Him.--Letter 9, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 255.3}
[17MR 257.1]       MR No. 1276 - Edson White and W. O. Palmer Not to Act Independently of the Conference in Establishing a Health Food Business         (Written January 27, 1902, from "Elmshaven," St. Helena, California, to Elder and Mrs. W. O. Palmer.)            I wish to write you a few words. I am still weak, but my trust is in the Lord, and I shall not worry. I have written a letter to Edson, and have another nearly finished, but it has disappeared. I have looked for it, but cannot find it.  {17MR 257.1}
[17MR 257.2]          There are many things deeply impressed on my mind. In the night season I am conversing with you and Edson, telling you that at this time there is a great necessity for you to show wisdom, to speak chosen words, to talk with God and place yourselves in His hands, to refuse to move hastily in any matter.  {17MR 257.2}
[17MR 257.3]         To you and to Edson I desire to say, Please do not use my name as sustaining you in taking an independent course. I advise you both to unite with those who are bearing responsibilities in the Southern Union Conference. Assist them all you possibly can. You can best advance the work in the Southern field by uniting with your brethren in the conference, by showing them that you do not regard your capabilities as all that is necessary to make the work a success. Let all see that you are gaining spiritual life as you advance step by step.  {17MR 257.3}
[17MR 257.4]         For you to establish a business for the manufacture of health foods would, I fear, be a great mistake. If the Southern Union Conference wishes to take up this work, let them do it. You will thus be relieved of a heavy responsibility. This you ought not to regret, for from the light I have I know that you already have all the burdens that you can carry, especially if you carry out the plans you have laid for the publishing work. You have all the responsibilities you                                          -258-     can bear and at the same time preserve physical soundness and a calm, restful spirit. Unless you have seasons of rest, you will become unbalanced of mind, and this would cause the enemy to rejoice. He would be very glad to see you moving indiscreetly.  {17MR 257.4}
[17MR 258.1]          I am trembling for Edson. I am sure he is passing over the same ground where before he failed to bear the test. Those who have said so much that ought not to be said will make the most of any injudicious movement on his part or on yours. You must both labor unselfishly, showing that you are controlled by the Spirit of an abiding Christ, if you expect your brethren to look upon you as trustworthy men, and if you expect the Lord to work with you.--Letter 23, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 258.1}
[17MR 259.1]       MR No. 1277 - The Health Food Work in Sydney; Improvement in the Spiritual Climate of the St. Helena Sanitarium         (Written July 23, 1902, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California to Elder and Mrs. J. A. Burden.)        I meant to have written to you fully this mail, but I have had so many letters to write to others that you will have to be satisfied with a short letter this time.  {17MR 259.1}
[17MR 259.2]          I have begun letters to you no fewer than four times. But each time I would begin, the mail came, bringing letters demanding an immediate answer, until my mind has been so burdened that I have not been able to sleep past eleven, twelve, and one o'clock. I walk the floor, and ask the Lord to help me, and then after hours of distress I am able to sleep for an hour or two perhaps.  {17MR 259.2}
[17MR 259.3]         I am so glad that you are making a success of the health food work in Sydney. This is a very important work. Hold the position you have gained. Be sure to keep your hearts garrisoned by the Holy Spirit of God.  {17MR 259.3}
[17MR 259.4]          I must tell you that a very marked change has taken place in the sanitarium here. For more than a year I carried a very heavy burden for this institution. We would speak on the Sabbath from the Word with the power of God, and would learn afterward that at the close of the Sabbath a concert had been held, a meeting of the most foolish order, in which the nurses listened to unprofitable songs, and engaged in foolish conversation. Thus the influence of our effort on the Sabbath was counteracted.  {17MR 259.4}
[17MR 259.5]          I felt that those connected with the institution could be of no help to it unless they took hold of true medical missionary work in connection with the gospel message. Medical missionary work is to be carried forward in connection                                          -260-     with the gospel ministry, and is to open doors for the entrance of truth. I feel so sad when I see those who ought to be zealous health reformers 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.  {17MR 259.5}
[17MR 260.1]          We are intensely desirous that the sanitarium shall recover from its spiritual declension. Brother Taylor and Brother A. T. Jones have worked hard to set things right, but this was not an easy matter. As long as Dr. Sanderson and his wife were in the institution, no reforms were made.  {17MR 260.1}
[17MR 260.2]          Sister Sanderson left the sanitarium, and then Dr. Loper came. He is a kind, tenderhearted man. Evangelistic work was done, and the foolish, trifling girls were separated from the sanitarium. There is now a more heavenly atmosphere pervading the institution.  {17MR 260.2}
[17MR 260.3]          Dr. Winegar's presence in the institution is a great blessing. We appreciate her worth, and we hope and pray that she may be given grace to carry forward her work wisely and intelligently.  {17MR 260.3}
[17MR 260.4]          I bore Brother Nelson and his wife a direct, straightforward testimony from the Lord. She is now living in St. Helena. Brother Boeker also received a message from the Lord, and both he and Brother Nelson made a full confession. This has cleared away much fog.  {17MR 260.4}
[17MR 260.5]          I wish to inquire about a man by the name of Ryan, who used to work at the school. I hear that he has given up the truth. Can you tell me what is the matter? I believe that Brother Ryan is a conscientious man, but I am sure that he is set in his ways, and sometimes severe. I have written him a short letter which I will enclose with this, as I do not know his address. I cannot bear to think that he will lose his soul.                                          -261-  {17MR 260.5}
[17MR 261.1]          We are now in the middle of summer, and during the day the heat is almost unendurable. The sun seems to be like an open furnace. Next week I hope to get into the new room that is being put up for me over the kitchen. I like the climate of Cooranbong much better than the climate of this place.  {17MR 261.1}
[17MR 261.2]          I hope and pray that the Lord will bless you abundantly in your work in Sydney. I hope that you will have good health. Be assured that we pray for you and for those connected with you, that you may have wisdom to walk wisely in a perfect way. If ever there was a time when we needed to watch unto prayer, it is now. Sin has cast a dark shadow over the earth. In our work we constantly meet with difficulties, but we can hope in God, for we have the assurance that He is light. He is the fullness of light.  {17MR 261.2}
[17MR 261.3]          Through the clouds that darken our way there shine the precious promises that are the pledge of divine guidance, "I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not"; "I will make darkness light before thee, and crooked things straight"; "I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."  {17MR 261.3}
[17MR 261.4]          The Lord asks us to walk with Him, to cleave constantly to Him. If we follow Him in faithfulness, He will be our wisdom. Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Let our faith grow stronger as we think of the tender watchcare of the Lord, and His lovingkindness toward us. Our faith must pierce the cloud, and reach to the light beyond. However dark the cloud, we should always see the light on the other side. Our love increases as our faith becomes more certain, for we touch the Source of an abiding strength and confidence.  {17MR 261.4}
[17MR 261.5]          Connected with the Word of God there is a key that unlocks the precious casket, to our satisfaction and delight. I feel thankful for every ray of                                          -262-     light. In the future, experiences now to us very mysterious will be explained. Some experiences we may never fully comprehend until this mortal shall put on immortality.  {17MR 261.5}
[17MR 262.1]          I have written many letters for this mail, and am very weary, so I will not try to write you more now. I will write again next mail, if I can.  {17MR 262.1}
[17MR 262.2]          I send love to you all as a family. We miss you. I should be glad were you here. But you are needed where you are. Tell Sister Tuxford that I am glad she is with you in the work.--Letter 114, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 262.2}
[17MR 263.1]       MR No. 1278 - Workers To Be Transformed by God and Reveal Christlike Tenderness         Are you preparing yourselves to do the work that God has given you to do? Let the love of Christ abide in your hearts, my brethren. Let the oil of divine love soften and subdue your words. Seek for the Holy Spirit, humbling yourselves before God. You certainly need to surrender yourselves to Him for purification and sanctification. Pray for the heavenly Power which alone can quell the quick rising passion and check the hasty words. Put away all self-seeking.  {17MR 263.1}
[17MR 263.2]          Give yourselves over to God, and let Him resolder you, that you may not be defective vessels. Indulge no sharp criticism. When you stand in your lot and place, you will realize that you are not able to charm away unhallowed influences. You will feel that you must learn from the Lord Jesus how to be meek and lowly in heart.  {17MR 263.2}
[17MR 263.3]          The knowledge that you both have of the Word of God should be in you a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life for the refreshing of thirsty souls.  {17MR 263.3}
[17MR 263.4]          This is the will of God, even your sanctification. But there are lessons that you need to learn more perfectly from the great Teacher. You need to soften and subdue your natural temperaments, which often gain the supremacy.  {17MR 263.4}
[17MR 263.5]          Some seem to think that they have been appointed to act as detectives, to                                          -264-     watch and accuse their fellow workers. This is dangerous business for those who take it up. It spoils their Christian experience.  {17MR 263.5}
[17MR 264.1]          You both need a gentler touch. Your words are to soothe, not to harass. Let your hearts be filled with love for souls. With a deep, tender interest, work for those around you. If you see one making a mistake, go to him in the way Christ has pointed out in His Word, and see if you cannot talk the matter over with Christlike tenderness. Pray with him, and believe that the Saviour will show you the way out of the difficulty.  {17MR 264.1}
[17MR 264.2]          Ministers need much of the grace of God in order to do their work acceptably. When a minister finds the members of a church arrayed against one another, let him call a halt and endeavor to bring about a harmonious understanding. Let him never give sharp, dictatorial advice or orders. This is not necessary. It is labor worse than wasted.  {17MR 264.2}
[17MR 264.3]          It is only when self, falling on the Rock, is broken, that the Lord has opportunity to remodel. Then the cheerfulness of heavenly peace will sanctify the spirit. All that savors of harshness and envy will be put away. Then the joy of heaven will be an abiding presence in the home. When the Lord Jesus abides in the heart, there is peace with God.  {17MR 264.3}
[17MR 264.4]          My brethren Corliss and Jones, the Lord calls upon you to exert an uplifting influence. Receive into the heart the truths of God's Word. Only thus can you have the mind of God. Place yourselves under the molding influence of the Holy Spirit. Then you will have much greater power for good. Your work is not to deal with minds in business relation, but to proclaim the message of truth in our large gatherings. Your testimonies are needed. It is your work to give these testimonies to those who know not the truth. Yield yourselves to the                                          -265-     heavenly grace that is your power. Be sure to give no reason for unfavorable criticisms of your work.  {17MR 264.4}
[17MR 265.1]          Has the truth been lodged in your hearts? Is the miracle-working power of the grace of God seen in your lives? Do you understand, by personal experience, the joy of heavenly peace, and the power of Christ's gentleness? Christ's commandment is, "Love one another, as I have loved you." Wherever the love of Jesus reigns, there is peace and rest. Where this love is cherished, it is as a refreshing stream in a desert, transforming barrenness into fertility.--Ms 105, 1902, pp. 8-10.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987.  {17MR 265.1}
[17MR 266.1]       MR No. 1279 - Conversations Between Ellen White, A. G. Daniells and Other Church Leaders Regarding the Work in Nashville         CONSIDERATION WAS NEXT GIVEN TO THE WORK IN NASHVILLE. AMONG OTHER THINGS, WAS MENTIONED AN INTERVIEW PUBLISHED IN A NASHVILLE PAPER, IN REGARD TO THE PROPOSED WORK OF THE DIXIE HEALTH FOOD COMPANY, AND THE EFFECT THIS INTERVIEW WOULD NATURALLY HAVE UPON THE LIBERALITIES OF OUR PEOPLE.  {17MR 266.1}
[17MR 266.2]          Mrs. E. G. White: When I saw that sensational article in regard to what the Food Company in Nashville intended to do, I thought, I will say nothing on one side or on the other; this matter is beyond me. No matter what I should say, complaint would be made. God desires me to stand perfectly free from this whole matter, and I will.  {17MR 266.2}
[17MR 266.3]         I desire you to know that I regard the publication of this article in regard to the food work as a great mistake. It is not right.  {17MR 266.3}
[17MR 266.4]          A. G. DANIELLS: IT IS DOING GREAT HARM.  {17MR 266.4}
[17MR 266.5]          Mrs. E. G. White: I have written all about this matter. I have not sent the manuscript yet because, since returning home, I have been sick. I wrote the manuscript while I was away from home.  {17MR 266.5}
[17MR 266.6]          A. G. DANIELLS: YOU SEE, IT HAS BEEN REPEATEDLY PUBLISHED THAT THE BRETHREN IN NASHVILLE WERE NOT GOING INTO DEBT, AND EVERYBODY HAS UNDERSTOOD THAT A NEW ORDER OF THINGS HAD SET IN, AND THAT THEY WERE GOING TO HAVE AN INSTITUTION PUT UP WITHOUT DEBT; AND SO THEY HAVE SENT THEIR MONEY IN. BUT NOW IT IS BECOMING KNOWN THAT THE INSTITUTION IS BADLY IN DEBT. FOR A LONG TIME THE PEOPLE DID NOT KNOW THAT THERE WAS A DOLLAR OF INDEBTEDNESS ON IT. BESIDES, IT HAS BEEN MANAGED SO THAT THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS HAVE BEEN SUNK JUST IN OPERATING                                          -267-     THE BUSINESS. THIS IS BRINGING GREAT DISCOURAGEMENT AND DISTRUST AND LACK OF CONFIDENCE UPON THE PEOPLE.  {17MR 266.6}
[17MR 267.1]          I DO NOT BELIEVE THAT THERE WAS ANY NEED OF HAVING SUCH AN EXPERIENCE AS THIS IN NASHVILLE. I KNOW VERY WELL THAT AT THE BEGINNING THEY HAD INSTRUCTION FROM YOU THAT THEY WERE NOT TO GO INTO DEBT; THAT THEY WERE NOT TO GO ANY FASTER THAN THEY WERE ABLE TO PAY THEIR WAY; AND THAT WHEN THEY WOULD COME TO A PLACE WHERE THEY COULD NOT PAY THEIR WAY, THEY SHOULD STOP UNTIL THEY RECEIVED MEANS WITH WHICH TO CONTINUE THEIR WORK. I DO NOT BELIEVE ANY OF THE RESPONSIBILITY CAN BE THROWN BACK EITHER UPON YOU OR UPON THE LORD.  {17MR 267.1}
[17MR 267.2]          THEY HAVE PRINTED WHAT YOU SAID IN REGARD TO KEEPING FREE FROM DEBT; AND THE PEOPLE HAVE BELIEVED THAT THIS WAS GOING TO BE DONE. NOW WHEN IT TURNS OUT THAT SO MUCH HAS BEEN LOST IN EXPENSIVE MANAGEMENT, AND THAT THEY HAVE GONE INTO DEBT NEARLY $25,000 BESIDES, THIS IS HAVING A VERY BAD EFFECT ON THE MINDS OF OUR PEOPLE. I FEEL THAT WE MUST TAKE HOLD OF THIS THING, AND STOP IT, AND PUT IT RIGHT, AND PLACE THE INSTITUTION IN A POSITION WHERE IT WILL NOT CONTINUE TO LOSE IN ITS OPERATION. I DO NOT BELIEVE THERE IS ANY NEED OF SO HEAVY A LOSS EVERY MONTH.  {17MR 267.2}
[17MR 267.3]          Mrs. E. G. White: If they had done just as they promised to do, they would not have gone so far. The establishment would have been much smaller in size. It would have been a great deal better than it is at present.  {17MR 267.3}
[17MR 267.4]          A. G. DANIELLS: I THINK THAT IT CAN BE ARRANGED SO THAT THEY CAN MEET EXPENSES.  {17MR 267.4}
[17MR 267.5]          Mrs. E. G. White: If it cannot be, it had better be closed.  {17MR 267.5}
[17MR 267.6]          A SHORT DISCUSSION OF THE PUBLISHING WORK IN THE SOUTH, FOLLOWED. REFERENCE WAS MADE TO THE SELLING QUALITIES OF LARGE AND SMALL BOOKS.                                          -268-  {17MR 267.6}
[17MR 268.1]          Mrs. E. G. White: I do not believe it is right to devote so much attention to the sale of the smaller books, to the neglect of the larger ones. It is wrong to leave lying on the shelves the large works that the Lord has revealed should be put into the hands of the people, and to push so vigorously, in the place of these, the sale of small books.                                                    -    {17MR 268.1}
[17MR 268.2]          Mrs. E. G. White: I have come to a point where I must not worry over any of these things. I have in the past worried so that I could not sleep after twelve and one o'clock in the morning. I have had to get up at these hours to relieve my mind by writing in regard to these matters. But I must not permit my mind to be taken up with these things so much that it will be affected. My memory is still good, and I desire to finish some things that I have in preparation.  {17MR 268.2}
[17MR 268.3]          I am writing on the life of Solomon. And I wish to write more on the case that I have so many times brought before Dr. Kellogg as illustrative of his own dangers--the case of Nebuchadnezzar. Over and over again I have warned the doctor not to follow the course of this king, who said, "Is not this great Babylon, that I have built . . . by the might of my power, and for the honor of my majesty?"  {17MR 268.3}
[17MR 268.4]          Dr. Kellogg is now pursuing a similar course in Battle Creek. I am told that he made the remark that he was glad that the old sanitarium buildings burned down. Brethren, those buildings burned down as a reproof to him, but instead of taking it thus, he has given place to self-exaltation.  {17MR 268.4}
[17MR 268.5]          W. C. WHITE: WE HAVE NO DESIRE TO WORRY YOU, MOTHER, WITH THE DETAILS OF                                        -269-     THE WORK IN THE SOUTH; BUT IT LOOKS TO THE BRETHREN AS IF THE TIME HAS FULLY COME FOR A REARRANGEMENT OF THE BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITIES THERE.  {17MR 268.5}
[17MR 269.1]          Mrs. E. G. White: I think this work ought to be done. Edson has never made a success yet in financial matters, and he has had this fact spread before him constantly. He has been repeatedly told that his only success was in the ministry and in preparing books for the people. He has never made a success in finance.  {17MR 269.1}
[17MR 269.2]          W. C. WHITE: WHEN THE BRETHREN GO THERE, THEY WILL BE MET BY THIS PROPOSITION, NAMELY, THAT BROTHER EDSON WHITE AND BROTHER W. O. PALMER HAVE BEEN INSTRUCTED TO STAND TOGETHER. THEY WILL BE TOLD THAT WICKED EFFORTS HAVE BEEN MADE TO SEPARATE THESE TWO MEN AND TO OVERTHROW THE WORK THAT THEY HAVE ORGANIZED THERE; AND THAT THE WORD OF THE LORD HAS FORBIDDEN ANYONE TO ANTAGONIZE THEM IN THEIR WORK.  {17MR 269.2}
[17MR 269.3]          Mrs. E. G. White: Over and over again the word of the Lord has come to them, telling them that neither of them has the physical strength nor the financial ability to carry the food business and the publishing work at one and the same time. If they should attempt this, either one branch or the other would have to suffer.  {17MR 269.3}
[17MR 269.4]          W. C. WHITE: THE QUESTION WITH US IS, SHALL WE WAIT ANOTHER PERIOD OF TIME FOR THINGS TO EVOLVE DOWN THERE, OR HAS THE TIME COME FOR THE GENERAL CONFERENCE AND THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE MEN TO GET TOGETHER AND IN PRAYERFUL, THOUGHTFUL COUNSEL READJUST THOSE MATTERS, AND PUT THE BEST MAN THAT THEY CAN FIND IN CHARGE OF THE PRINTING HOUSE, AND PUT THINGS ON AN ACTUAL PAYING BASIS, AND PLACE UPON THE UNION CONFERENCE THE BURDEN THAT BELONGS TO THE UNION CONFERENCE, AND PLACE UPON INDIVIDUALS THE BURDEN THAT BELONGS TO INDIVIDUALS, AND BRING THE                                          -270-     BUSINESS WHERE IT WILL NOT CONTINUALLY BE GOING INTO DEBT? HAS THE TIME COME FOR THIS ACTION?  {17MR 269.4}
[17MR 270.1]          Mrs. E. G. White: It has; and I say, Go ahead. God's cause must not be left to reproach, no matter who is made sore by arranging matters on a right basis. Edson should give himself to the ministry and to writing, and leave alone the things that he has been forbidden by the Lord to do. Finance is not his forte at all.  {17MR 270.1}
[17MR 270.2]          I want the brethren to feel free to take hold of this matter. I do not want them to make any reference to me. I want them to act just as they would act if my son were not there.  {17MR 270.2}
[17MR 270.3]          When I was in Battle Creek, before the Nashville Office was fully established, this young man Palmer was presented to me in the night season as one whom I was to treat as a son. I was instructed to be a mother to him; that he was in great danger of losing his soul, and that I should do all I could to help him to recover himself from the enemy's snare. It was revealed to me that when he associated with his friends his money went like the wind. He could not have money without spending it freely. I was further instructed that if he would take hold of the Southern work, and labor in the fear of God, he would be greatly blessed, and his soul would be saved.  {17MR 270.3}
[17MR 270.4]          Recently I cautioned our brethren against making a change in the management of the Nashville Office too suddenly. They were to wait until some other man could be found whom the Lord would provide for that work. I do not think it is best for Brother Palmer to be connected with the Nashville Publishing House any longer. Let him go into the food business, if he so chooses. I do not think it is best for him to have the least connection with the office of publication.                                             -271-  {17MR 270.4}
[17MR 271.1]          I must always stand on the right side of every question. I do not want anyone to feel that I am sustaining Edson in a wrong. He has felt that it is terrible for me to write to him in the straight way that I have written. I have presented things to him just as they are presented to me.  {17MR 271.1}
[17MR 271.2]          W. C. WHITE: THERE IS ANOTHER ISSUE THAT WILL COME UP WITH REFERENCE TO EDSON'S WORK. YOU REMEMBER THAT A LITTLE WHILE AGO HE BORE THE BURDEN OF THE HILDEBRAN SCHOOL, AND ALL THE COLORED SCHOOLS IN MISSISSIPPI; AND HE HAS FELT THAT HE MUST GO TO THE PEOPLE FOR MONEY, AND THAT HE MUST HAVE A TREASURY INDEPENDENT FROM THE TREASURY OF THE UNION CONFERENCE, SO THAT HE COULD SPEND MONEY WHERE THE UNION CONFERENCE MIGHT NOT THINK IT ADVISABLE TO SPEND IT.  {17MR 271.2}
[17MR 271.3]          Mrs. E. G. White: I hope that he will never have such a treasury. I do not want the brethren ever to feel it their duty to let him have a fund independent from the union conference fund; for I will not encourage any such arrangement.  {17MR 271.3}
[17MR 271.4]          A. G. DANIELLS: THIS STATEMENT WILL DO OUR BRETHREN IN THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE A WORLD OF GOOD--TO KNOW THAT THIS IS YOUR POSITION.  {17MR 271.4}
[17MR 271.5]          Mrs. E. G. White: This is my position exactly.  {17MR 271.5}
[17MR 271.6]          A. G. DANIELLS: I KNOW THEY WANT TO FOSTER THE WORK THAT EDSON BEGAN AMONG THE COLORED PEOPLE; BUT THEY DO NOT CARE TO HAVE HIM CONTRACT DEBTS FOR THIS WORK AND THEN SEND IN THE BILLS FOR THEM TO SETTLE, IN SOME WAY, FROM THEIR TREASURY. THEY FEEL THAT THEY HAVE A RIGHT TO SAY SOMETHING ABOUT THE DEBTS THAT ARE CONTRACTED IF THEY HAVE TO PAY THEM; AND IF THEY KNOW THAT THIS IS YOUR POSITION TOO, IT WILL DO THEM A WORLD OF GOOD.  {17MR 271.6}
[17MR 271.7]          W. C. WHITE: IF EDSON COULD KNOW THAT THIS IS YOUR POSITION, IT WOULD DO HIM TOO A WORLD OF GOOD; FOR JUST SO LONG AS HE HOLDS TO THE POSITION THAT HE                                            -272-     MUST CONTROL AN ASSOCIATION, AND THAT THIS ASSOCIATION MUST HAVE A TREASURY, AND THAT HE MUST GO TO THE PEOPLE TO RAISE MONEY TO REPLENISH THIS TREASURY-- FIGHTING ALL THE WORLD AS TO THE METHOD OF DOING IT; AND THAT HE HAS THE RIGHT TO EXPEND THIS MONEY AS THE SOUTHERN MISSIONARY SOCIETY THINKS BEST--JUST SO LONG AS THIS IS HIS POSITION HE KEEPS HIMSELF IN A CONFLICT ON THE RIGHT HAND AND ON THE LEFT, AND HE CARRIES THE BURDEN OF THE WORK FOR THE COLORED PEOPLE AS IF HE WERE THEIR ONLY DEFENDER AND CHAMPION.  {17MR 271.7}
[17MR 272.1]          Mrs. E. G. White: So he was at one time, when no one stood ready to take hold of this work with him. But now that there are other people in the South who are helping to do this work, the burden does not rest upon him alone.  {17MR 272.1}
[17MR 272.2]          It is highly proper that the work of the Southern Missionary Society should be under the direction of the Southern Union Conference.  {17MR 272.2}
[17MR 272.3]          Regarding the steamer Morning Star, I have written Edson that I saw no objection to this boat's being used in missionary work if this fellow workers felt clear to advise its use. I told him that if the brethren, in counsel with him, felt that there was a class of people living along the rivers who could be reached only by means of a boat, and that if to reach these they were willing to undertake to put the Morning Star into service once, I had no objections to offer.  {17MR 272.3}
[17MR 272.4]          QUESTION: WOULD YOU THINK IT BEST FOR EDSON TO INSIST ON THE FUTURE EXISTENCE OF THE SOUTHERN MISSIONARY SOCIETY AS AN INDEPENDENT ORGANIZATION IN ORDER THAT THIS KIND OF WORK COULD BE CARRIED ON WITHOUT HINDRANCE?  {17MR 272.4}
[17MR 272.5]          Mrs. E. G. White: I cannot give countenance to Edson's operating independently, because I know that he is not a close financier.                                            -273-  {17MR 272.5}
[17MR 273.1]          QUESTION: IT IS GOD'S WILL FOR HIM TO CARRY THE BURDEN OF AN INDEPENDENT SOCIETY AND AN INDEPENDENT WORK WITHIN THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE, AND TO DO THINGS AND TO CARRY BURDENS THAT THE UNION CONFERENCE DOES NOT FEEL FREE TO DO AND TO CARRY; AND ALSO TO APPEAL FOR MEANS IN WAYS THAT THE UNION CONFERENCE CANNOT APPROVE?  {17MR 273.1}
[17MR 273.2]          Mrs. E. G. White: No. When I saw that interview in regard to the Dixie Health Food Company, as printed in a Nashville paper, I said to myself, My duty is done for the present. Not another plea can I publish asking our people to help to establish the work in the Southern field, until something is done to right this matter. In this sensational article it was claimed that half a million dollars was to be expended in connection with the establishment of the health food business in Nashville. It was a terrible representation, and I determined not to have anything more to say.  {17MR 273.2}
[17MR 273.3]          E. R. PALMER: THAT PAPER HAS BEEN CIRCULATED ALL AROUND WHERE CONDITIONS IN THE NASHVILLE PUBLISHING HOUSE AND THE SOUTHERN MISSIONARY SOCIETY ARE KNOWN.  {17MR 273.3}
[17MR 273.4]          Mrs. E. G. White: With that presentation in circulation, channels through which means should have flowed into the Southern field have been closed.  {17MR 273.4}
[17MR 273.5]          A. G. DANIELLS: BEFORE I KNEW WHAT THE BRETHREN WERE DOING, I REALIZED THAT THE PUBLICATION OF THIS ARTICLE WAS CLOSING UP THE CHANNELS THROUGH WHICH MONEY WOULD HAVE FLOWED INTO THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE TREASURY.  {17MR 273.5}
[17MR 273.6]          Mrs. E. G. White: Things must be put on a different basis. There was a time when the Southern field was being robbed and neglected. At that time it was necessary for appeals to be made for means independently of the organized body. But this time is in the past. Many are now interested in the progress of the cause there. The brethren acknowledge the mistakes that they have made in the past, and are ready to work that field. Let them plan to open new fields in                                             -274-     the South, and carry forward the work on a right basis. Let them not falter in doing the right thing.  {17MR 273.6}
[17MR 274.1]          A. G. DANIELLS: THERE IS A DISPOSITION TO CARRY FORWARD AGGRESSIVE WORK IN THE SOUTHERN FIELD IN RIGHT LINES. THEY HAVE GOOD MEN DOWN THERE TO ACT AS COUNSELORS AND LEADERS.  {17MR 274.1}
[17MR 274.2]          Mrs. E. G. White: I do not desire that any personalities should be brought into this question. I desire to see the business of the Nashville Publishing Association carried on just as it should be carried on--in God's order.  {17MR 274.2}
[17MR 274.3]          A. G. DANIELLS: THAT IS A SENSIBLE POSITION, SISTER WHITE, AND THE PROBLEM CAN BE WORKED OUT ON THAT GROUND.  {17MR 274.3}
[17MR 274.4]          Mrs. E. G. White: My personality is not my own, and I have no right to use it for selfish purposes. I can stand before the throne of God, and be perfectly clear on this point; for I have never used my personality selfishly. My husband used to tell me that I was more in danger of going to the other extreme.                                                    -    {17MR 274.4}
[17MR 274.5]          SISTER WHITE FURTHER STATED THAT SHE WISHED IT DISTINCTLY UNDERSTOOD THAT WHEN SHE HAD SPOKEN ENCOURAGINGLY OF THE FOOD MANUFACTURE BY THE BRETHREN IN NASHVILLE, SHE KNEW NOTHING ABOUT THE LARGE PLANS OF THE DIXIE FOOD COMPANY. SHE SAID THAT SHE HAD ADVISED OUR PEOPLE IN EVERY SECTION OF THE COUNTRY TO EXPERIMENT WITH THE FOOD PRODUCTS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE LOCALITIES, AND HAD ENCOURAGED THEM TO MAKE HEALTHFUL FOODS FROM THESE NATURAL PRODUCTS.  {17MR 274.5}
[17MR 274.6]          WHEN EDSON AND BROTHER PALMER ASKED HER ADVICE ABOUT THEIR MANUFACTURING TWO OR THREE PRODUCTS THAT THEY HAD EXPERIMENTED ON, SHE TOLD THEM THAT SHE SAW NO OBJECTION TO THEIR DOING THIS; BUT AFTERWARD SHE CAUTIONED THEM NOT TO ENTER INTO THE FOOD BUSINESS WHILE HOLDING POSITIONS OF RESPONSIBILITY IN THE PUBLISHING HOUSE. SHE TOLD THEM PLAINLY THAT THEY COULD NOT CARRY BOTH LINES OF                                             -275-     WORK AT THE SAME TIME AND DO JUSTICE TO BOTH. SHE ADVISED THEM TO LET THE SOUTHERN UNION CONFERENCE CONTROL THE MANUFACTURE AND SALE OF HEALTH FOODS FOR THE SOUTHERN FIELD, AND SUGGESTED THAT THE PROFITS COULD BE USED TO ADVANCE MISSIONARY WORK IN THAT FIELD.--MS. 123, 1902, PP. 8-17.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987.  {17MR 274.6}
[17MR 276.1]       MR No. 1280 - The Work in Nashville, Including the Health Food Business; Spiritual Interests To Be Paramount         I have a question to ask of those who are engaged in the health food work in Nashville. You have put your energies into this work, and have planned to get means for it. Was it not your duty, before doing this, to use all your powers in an effort to put on a proper basis the work already started in Nashville? You have lost the opportunity of showing by a wise example how other places are to be worked. Money that should have been used to place on a firm foundation the work already begun in Nashville has been invested in an enterprise which should have received more consideration before being started.  {17MR 276.1}
[17MR 276.2]          As our people come to understand how these things have been managed, will they be encouraged to invest means in the work in Nashville? Those who have put money into the health food work there should have reasoned from cause to effect. They should have asked the Lord for power to see clearly what was most needed to be done. With the present showing, it will be three times more difficult to raise means for the work in Nashville than it would otherwise have been.  {17MR 276.2}
[17MR 276.3]         Angels were hovering about Nashville to lend the human workers power to rise higher in the work of self-sacrifice and to become indeed laborers together with God. The Lord desired these workers to use every jot of their influence to make the work in Nashville an example of the work that may be done in other cities of the South. He desired the work done in the South to be an object lesson for the instruction of those who are building up the work in new places. Had the workers realized this, how carefully they would have weighed every plan                                             -277-     and method. How earnestly they would have striven to honor and glorify God by Christlike work. Had they given their first attention to that which was of first importance, had they been filled with a heaven-born missionary spirit, their zeal for God's work would have been communicated to other souls.  {17MR 276.3}
[17MR 277.1]          My brethren, in the work in the South all should make religious interests their burden. Let no one become so bound up in large speculations that his time and strength are consumed in carrying the burdens of worldly business. Let not all the means available be absorbed in the health food work. The religious lines of our work are to be kept in the foreground.  {17MR 277.1}
[17MR 277.2]          We need a knowledge of our personal powers, and we need to realize that these powers have been bought with a price, that they belong to God and are to be used in His service. God desires us to go forth weighted with the thought of the many places needing to be worked. This is the burden that Christ desires us to carry. The workers in the South must reach the highest spiritual attainments in order for their work in this field to be a success. Private prayer, family prayer, prayer in public gatherings for the worship of God--all are essential. And we are to live our prayers. We are to cooperate with Christ in His work.  {17MR 277.2}
[17MR 277.3]          Every extravagance should be restrained. You cannot afford to spend God's money needlessly, for His cause is suffering for means. Christ left His high command in the heavenly courts, and came to our world in the guise of humanity, to live a life of self-denial. His followers are not to live in accordance with the world's selfish ideas or practices. Look at the life lived by the Majesty of heaven while on this earth. How untiringly and self-sacrificingly He labored for the salvation of the bodies and souls of men and women. He knew the best                                             -278-     way in which to influence aright the minds of those with whom He was brought in contact.  {17MR 277.3}
[17MR 278.1]          Into all your business transactions bring Christ's grace. As you press to the throne of God, you receive power that enables you to see distinctly the needs of the world; and, led by Him, your good works testify to your Christlikeness.  {17MR 278.1}
[17MR 278.2]          Let those who are laboring as God's workmen in the South make decided changes. Appeals have been made for the work in Nashville, and money has come in for this work. Have you used this money wisely? There was aggressive work to be done in many places. Money was greatly needed in New York. There are those who have stinted themselves of food and clothing in order to respond to the call for help. Have you who have entered into the food business done all that you could to make the publishing work a success?  {17MR 278.2}
[17MR 278.3]          There is a time for everything. When the publishing work in Nashville was started, the one purpose of the workers should have been to carry this work forward in straightforward lines. They should have given evidence to their brethren and to the Lord that they understood His work, and that they were trying with all their power to work out His purposes.  {17MR 278.3}
[17MR 278.4]          The buildings erected in Nashville will be needed. But some parts of them were erected before the time, and the promise not to go into debt was not kept. Steps have been taken that have made the opening of the work in Nashville an example that we cannot afford to follow, at any time or in any place. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? God's work is not to bear the mold of the world.                                             -279-  {17MR 278.4}
[17MR 279.1]          Venturesome investments must be strictly avoided. Those that have been made in the past should never have been made. Let the workers in Nashville bind about the edges. Let them guard themselves as with a fence of barbed wire from the inclination to go into debt. Let them say firmly, "Henceforth we will not advance any faster than the Lord shall indicate and the means in hand will allow, even though the good work has to wait for a while. In beginning the work in new places, we will do our work in narrow quarters rather than involve the Lord's work in debt."  {17MR 279.1}
[17MR 279.2]          But let those who took no part in the building up of the work in Nashville, who did not wrestle with the difficulties in the way of its advancement, be very careful how they find fault with the workers there. Let them ask themselves whether, under similar circumstances, they would have done any better. As they have not gone over the ground step by step, they cannot tell what mistakes they would have made. The mistakes that their brethren may have made may appear very grievous in their eyes, but let them remember that from these mistakes wisdom may be learned.  {17MR 279.2}
[17MR 279.3]          Let all do their best to adjust the difficulties in the work at Nashville, and to place this work on a solid basis. Let them refuse to incur needless debt. Let the workers learn from their mistakes to move carefully, following in the footsteps of the self-denying Redeemer.  {17MR 279.3}
[17MR 279.4]          The work in Nashville is important. If the workers labor earnestly and judiciously, there will be conversions to the truth in the schools of learning that have been established in Nashville for the colored people. Let every worker be sure that he has on the gospel shoes, that his feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.--Ms 128, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 279.4}
[17MR 280.1]       MR No. 1281 - Concern for the Wahroonga Sanitarium; The Purpose of Our Institutions; Leaders Should Be Chosen for Their Spirituality         (Written January 5, 1903, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to Elder and Mrs. J. A. Burden.)            I wish to send you a few lines in this mail. I have written to Dr. Caro and his wife, and I will send you copies of these letters, that you may see just how I regard the question of their connection with the Wahroonga Sanitarium. Have you evidence that a radical change has taken place in Dr. Caro's life? If so, this is enough. Has he been converted? If he has not, he would not, if connected with the sanitarium, rightly represent the truth for this time. His influence would stand in the way of bringing the institution to that place where it will meet the mind of God.  {17MR 280.1}
[17MR 280.2]          In my former letters I have spoken in regard to this matter, and now I speak to you again, saying, Be guarded in giving Dr. Caro encouragement to connect with the sanitarium. In his letter to Willie he says, "You know, I have an expensive family." He seems to think that we shall take it for granted that this is something that cannot be changed. To connect such a family with the sanitarium would be to bring in an undercurrent of influence that would undo what you will try to do.  {17MR 280.2}
[17MR 280.3]         Unless all the workers in the sanitarium will stand firm for truth and righteousness, you might just as well not have a sanitarium. The work and influence of unconsecrated workers would cause much trouble and heartache, and create difficulties that you could not handle, difficulties which would exert a strong influence for evil, but which you would not be able to take hold of as                                          -281-     something tangible. Such things would bring into the sanitarium the leaven of evil.  {17MR 280.3}
[17MR 281.1]          Secure, if possible, humble men and women as workers for the sanitarium. At one time I thought that Dr. Kellar would connect with this institution, but neither he nor his wife are obtaining the experience that the physicians connected with this institution should have. Every physician and every helper in other lines in the sanitarium should have a genuine religious experience.  {17MR 281.1}
[17MR 281.2]          Those who are children of God will work the works of God. But he who shuts the Holy Spirit away from his life should not be brought into connection with the sanitarium. The workers are to be carefully chosen and then tried. Those who cannot bear the test should not be encouraged to stay. Workers who are loath to fulfill the requirements of God's Word will be vacillating, sometimes serving the Lord and sometimes serving the wicked one.  {17MR 281.2}
[17MR 281.3]          I see that many difficulties present themselves before you. But you cannot afford to run any risks. Those who are by themselves in families have opportunity to connect with them those who need spiritual help, and to work for them. But it is different in a sanitarium, where so many are brought together.  {17MR 281.3}
[17MR 281.4]          We reason, We must take men as they are, not waiting for them to become as they ought to be; and make them better if we can, remembering their infirmities. But we are not to forget the object for which our sanitariums are established. It is that the light of truth may be shed abroad, that the sick and suffering who come may receive physical and spiritual healing. How carefully, then, should the workers for such an institution be chosen. Every word and act of each worker exerts an influence either for good or for evil.                                          -282-  {17MR 281.4}
[17MR 282.1]          Those who stand at the head of the institution have a strong, molding influence, and the utmost care is to be shown in the selection of these men. There are those who have excellent qualifications but who follow a course of action that robs their influence of all fragrance. They refuse to see that they are not just what they should be. They cannot see that anyone is wiser than they are. Such ones could not be a help in our sanitarium.  {17MR 282.1}
[17MR 282.2]          In regard to moving the food factory from Cooranbong to Sydney, do not do this, Brother Burden, till the matter has received further consideration. I shall not be reconciled to this movement until clearer evidence is presented that it is the best thing to do. I wish that the sanitarium, instead of being nearer Sydney, could have been farther away. When certain points become clearer in my mind in the future, I may be able to speak more definitely in regard to the food factory. I think some health food manufacture should be carried on at Cooranbong. How much is, of course, the question. Make changes slowly.  {17MR 282.2}
[17MR 282.3]          As far as I can see now, Dr. Kress will have to act as physician-in-chief at the Wahroonga Sanitarium. If in the future the burden proves too heavy for him, a change will have to be made.  {17MR 282.3}
[17MR 282.4]          You and your family should be connected with the sanitarium. The institution must have a manager, and I think that you should occupy this position.  {17MR 282.4}
[17MR 282.5]          I fear that I may confuse you by my letters. If I do, please pardon me. I am intensely desirous that the work of the Wahroonga Sanitarium shall be a success. The labor of a faithful minister is to be connected with the labors of the physicians. All the workers are to consecrate their talents to the building up of the institution. If they will reflect the light of heaven, souls will be converted. God is to be made first and last and best in everything. The                                          -283-     proclamation of the truth for this time is to be the one great interest. It was for this that the sanitarium has been established.--Letter 8, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 282.5}
[17MR 284.1]       MR No. 1282 - An Appeal for a Leader to Repent and Reform         Throughout every department of His work God will vindicate His honor, His righteousness. Will you not stop right where you are and consider diligently your ways? The Lord cannot endorse your spirit or your course of action. His hand is on the lever. Your plans are not His plans. Do not make others err by leading them to harmonize with your ideas and carry out your plans for the supremacy. Now is your time to repent. Lose not the opportunity. Cherish principles of the purest integrity. Then your spirit will change. You will be upright in your dealings with your fellow men because you are upright in your dealings with God.  {17MR 284.1}
[17MR 284.2]          My brother, do not feel that it is below your dignity to make a decided change. You must place yourself at the feet of Christ as a learner, else you will surely fail of obtaining the overcomer's reward. Lay off your commanding, kingly authority, and become one of God's little children. Until you are willing to study and obey God's will, you will be overcome by temptations, and led to do strange things, which will disqualify you for filling a position of influence.  {17MR 284.2}
[17MR 284.3]          Will you not repent and be converted? Will you not act every moment with the realization that you are under the divine scrutiny? Will you not make God your companion in all your work? His holiness, His justice, His truth, should purify your words and actions.  {17MR 284.3}
[17MR 284.4]          You need to stop and consider that there is a God. He has spoken good in your behalf, and He will be much displeased if you deal unjustly with His heritage. He calls upon you to turn to Him with full purpose of heart. Pray,                                          -285-     for your soul's sake, pray; for you have been so many times self-deceived and led by deceptive influences that you are tempted to regard with favor those who will flatter and extol you, and with disfavor those who would point out your errors and dangers.  {17MR 284.4}
[17MR 285.1]          Many times you have almost gone over to the wrong side, but before the throne has stood your Saviour, the prints of the nails in His hands, interceding in your behalf. Pray for yourself, in the name of Christ. Pray earnestly, fervently, sincerely. I hope that your life may be spared, and that you may give yourself wholly to repentance. Come to the Lord, and surrender all to Him. You must, or you will be taken captive by the enemy.  {17MR 285.1}
[17MR 285.2]          I cannot but write these words, for One of the highest authority has made this appeal to you.--Letter 55, 1903, pp. 9-11.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987.  {17MR 285.2}
[17MR 286.1]       MR No. 1283 - SDA's Not to Erect Mammoth Institutions; If Economy is Practiced, Needs of World Can be Met; Leaders to Have Upright Characters         ［Matthew 6:19-23; Luke 12:32-36, quoted.］        Now, just now, a great work is to be done without delay. The Lord calls upon His stewards for that which is His own. God's people are not to tie up their money by placing it in banks. They should put it in circulation by investing it in the work in missionary fields. Let those of our people who have money in banks withdraw it and invest it in the great work of God while they have opportunity.  {17MR 286.1}
[17MR 286.2]          No one is to make an urgent appeal for means with which to erect large and expensive buildings for sanitariums, colleges, or publishing houses, so absorbing means that the work in other places is crippled. Let our brethren be careful lest by drawing largely from our people for the erection of buildings in one place they rob other parts of the Lord's vineyard. Unduly to exalt the work in one part of the field is selfishness and covetousness. The Lord specially condemns such a manifestation, for by it His sacred work is misrepresented before the world. He would have His work controlled and guided by equity, justice, and judgment. He does not call for the erection of immense institutions. One corner of the vineyard is not the whole world. In many places throughout the world memorials for God are to be established to represent His truth.  {17MR 286.2}
[17MR 286.3]         Every dollar that we have belongs to God. "The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine, saith the Lord of hosts." Yet some do not recognize His ownership. Though the work in the part of the field where they are laboring already                                         -287-     possesses an abundance of facilities, they continue to draw from the Lord's treasury. They do not think of the needy portions of the field, which require such facilities as they already have. Would they work as zealously to provide for some other place the facilities they think are required in their field?  {17MR 286.3}
[17MR 287.1]          Every worker must labor with an eye single to the glory of God. If the work in all parts of the field bore the signature of heaven, there would be means enough to carry it forward. Those who have the money in God's treasury are to economize in the use of means, and they are to consider carefully the needs of the work in the home field and in the regions beyond. If they did this they would not erect mammoth institutions, contrary to the instruction of God. The Lord has plainly told us that instead of erecting a mammoth institution in any one place, we should establish plants in many places.  {17MR 287.1}
[17MR 287.2]          The question is sometimes asked, "Why build schoolhouses, sanitariums, food stores, or churches, when time is so short?" The Lord's money is to be invested wisely. In many places where the work has been shamefully neglected plants must be established that will be producers as well as consumers. Memorials for God should be established in every place as an aid in the proclamation of the last message of mercy. Missionary work should be done in every city.  {17MR 287.2}
[17MR 287.3]                              Qualifications of Workers        I have repeatedly been given instruction in regard to the characters that should be possessed by the men who occupy responsible positions in the work of God. If those engaged in the work of God cherish evil traits of character, the truths they present will taste too strongly of the dish to be palatable. The great work of redemption is to be carried steadily forward. On every hand are seen covetousness, selfishness, and self-exaltation. Unless our leading men are                                          -288-     freed from these sins, their characters will be warped and they will hinder the work of God.  {17MR 287.3}
[17MR 288.1]          Many of the leading men have dishonored the Lord. They have been false shepherds, and have led the flock of God astray. Teachers and rulers must be disciplined by disappointment, hardship, and affliction. Unless they are willing to learn of Christ His meekness and lowliness, they are not fitted to teach. Their example of self-righteousness will do nothing to advance the work of God.  {17MR 288.1}
[17MR 288.2]          Lest the enemies of God should triumph over backsliding Israel, God bears long with the waywardness of their leaders, who though grown to the stature of men and women have not put away their childish faults and imperfections; who after having had years of experience still reveal that they are deficient in love, in grace, in purity. For the glory of His own name, not because of the righteousness of His church or because of their obedience to His commandments, God has borne long with His people.  {17MR 288.2}
[17MR 288.3]          ［Isaiah 48:9-13, 17, 18, quoted.］        The time will come when all must stand before angels and before men, revealed in their true light. As the artist reproduces upon the polished plate the features of the human countenance, so their characters are being transferred to the books of heaven. The great Master Artist faithfully delineates every phase of the character. Every manifestation of selfishness or greed is noted by Him. In the judgment every man will stand revealed just as he is, either fashioned after the divine similitude or disfigured by the idolatrous sins of selfishness and covetousness. - Ms 53, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 288.3}
[17MR 289.1]      MR No. 1284 - Unity in God's Work; Personal Counsel on Diet and on Becoming Involved in the Health Food Work         (Written May 7, 1903, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to Elder and Mrs. J. A. Burden.)        I have received and read your letters. I can write but a short letter in reply, as I am unable to tax my head or my eyes too severely. I feel very grateful to my heavenly Father that He comes very near to me, and strengthens me by His rich grace.  {17MR 289.1}
[17MR 289.2]          The burdens I carried at the conference taxed my strength severely, but the Lord strengthened me, and I had evidence that He had a work for me there. As I was unable to walk to the meetings, and could not conveniently get the use of a horse and carriage, I was taken to and from the church in a comfortable wheelchair, rented from a secondhand furniture store.  {17MR 289.2}
[17MR 289.3]         I spoke several times before the large congregation gathered in the Oakland church. The second Sabbath I was in doubt as to the advisability of attempting to speak, as I had contracted a severe cold. But I dared not remain at home, so I said, I will place myself in a position to speak, and then, if I am unable, I will be humble enough to refrain from speaking. I found the church crowded. To the praise of God, upheld and sustained by His power, I was enabled to speak for an hour and a quarter. Some who for forty years have frequently heard me speak said they had never before heard me give so powerful a discourse. No one could doubt that the power of God rested upon me.  {17MR 289.3}
[17MR 289.4]         Before I took my seat I asked all to rise to their feet who would seek to meet the mind of the Holy Spirit, and pledge themselves by God's help to put away all murmuring and complaining and all evil speaking; who would cease to                                           -290-     hinder one another by setting a wrong example. Nearly all in the congregation rose, testifying that they would seek to advance the work of God instead of hindering it.  {17MR 289.4}
[17MR 290.1]          Then we knelt, and as my soul was drawn out in earnest prayer the congregation realized that the power of God was upon me. I had much reason to be thankful that the Lord so evidently sustained me. I asked the congregation to sing, "Rock of ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee." This hymn was a prayer to God in which all could join, and I know that angels of God united with the petition that rose from so many hearts and voices.  {17MR 290.1}
[17MR 290.2]          I was sustained during all the time I was at the conference, and a few days before the close of the gathering I returned to St. Helena. The strain upon me had been heavy.  {17MR 290.2}
[17MR 290.3]          Since the conference, the brethren have been in council at Battle Creek. I have been greatly encouraged to hear from the brethren there that unity and love exist among them. This is a great victory.  {17MR 290.3}
[17MR 290.4]          I hope that there may not be a shadow of discord at our sanitarium in Sydney. I would say, Constantly draw near to God, and when you are all one with Christ, you will be united in holy, Christian fellowship.  {17MR 290.4}
[17MR 290.5]          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."  {17MR 290.5}
[17MR 290.6]          I have been instructed to say to our medical missionary workers in America, that the yoke of forms and ceremonies must be broken from their necks. Our medical missionary work has been sick and in need of a physician.                                          -291-  {17MR 290.6}
[17MR 291.1]          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.  {17MR 291.1}
[17MR 291.2]          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.  {17MR 291.2}
[17MR 291.3]          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.  {17MR 291.3}
[17MR 291.4]          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                                          -292-     we may overcome our evil tendencies and so modify our imperfect dispositions that the will of God may be fulfilled in us.  {17MR 291.4}
[17MR 292.1]          We are all God's little children, members of one family. We must each be refreshed by the same living stream, that we may find true elevation of soul. We must all be united when we reach the heavenly courts.  {17MR 292.1}
[17MR 292.2]          We are to be one with Christ. He is our pattern. We are commanded to be "followers of God, as dear children." Our liberty is found in wearing Christ's yoke. "Follow Me," He says, "in humble, practical obedience. If you walk by yourself the obstacles in the road will be insurmountable. Believe in Me. Commit the keeping of your soul to Me."  {17MR 292.2}
[17MR 292.3]          I wish to speak particularly in reference to the establishment of food stores in various places. I have no light that this is your work. It is not clearly defined to me as the work for which you are best qualified.  {17MR 292.3}
[17MR 292.4]          If you can connect with the Doctors Kress, this will be of great benefit both to you and to them. The Lord would have you labor together in unity, even though your ideas and plans are not exactly alike. Men and women of different dispositions must unite in labor, working without contention or strife. Both you and Doctor Kress should stand in a conciliatory position. Remember that no one is free from mistakes. May the Lord help you, my dear friends.  {17MR 292.4}
[17MR 292.5]          Now let me speak as a mother to you both. You ought not to be troubled with dyspepsia if you partake of simply prepared food, and eat nothing between meals. Let your stomach rest when you sleep. A tainted breath and a coated tongue indicate that undigested food is lying in the stomach.  {17MR 292.5}
[17MR 292.6]          Let not your work show the effect of errors in diet. This is not health reform. I am instructed to tell you that the Lord would have you improve your                                          -293-     dietetic habits. You need to study carefully what foods you are best able to digest. For years you have been doing injury to your digestive organs, and you now need to exercise care. Unless by correct habits you place yourself on the list of health reformers, you cannot properly do the work of the Lord. You should stand where you can be of the greatest use in His cause.--Letter 79, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 292.6}
[17MR 294.1]       MR No. 1285 - The Role of Christ's Object Lessons; Concern Over Health Food Companies and Restaurants; Soul Winning to be Emphasized         (Written May 11, 1903, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to Lucinda Hall.)            I have been so busily employed in writing day after day that I have failed to write to you. I have been expecting and hoping that you would soon return to California, to be a member of our family. Your presence is worth much to me. I hope that you will soon be free to come back to us.  {17MR 294.1}
[17MR 294.2]          Marian, Sara, Dores Robinson, Clarence Crisler, Helen Graham, and Maggie attended the General Conference. We rented a furnished house, and all except myself took their meals at the restaurant.  {17MR 294.2}
[17MR 294.3]         We decided not to take a horse and carriage to Oakland, thinking that it would be better to hire a conveyance there. We went out once for a ride of about two hours, and paid two dollars. This I could not consent to do again.  {17MR 294.3}
[17MR 294.4]          In a furniture store Sara found an easy wheelchair with good springs. This she rented, and in it I was taken to and from the meetings. Sometimes I was wheeled by Sara and sometimes by Dores Robinson. The chair was an excellent one, and after the conference we purchased it, paying fourteen dollars for it.  {17MR 294.4}
[17MR 294.5]          Since the conference I have carried very heavy burdens, and this has worn upon me. I am still hoping and praying that the Lord will bring peace and unity into the church. If our church members cannot live in harmony here, how can they live in harmony in heaven?  {17MR 294.5}
[17MR 294.6]          I am writing much in regard to several matters. The suggestion has come from our canvassers that after the Relief of the Schools Campaign is finished,                                            -295-     Christ's Object Lessons be made a subscription book. They are sure that it would have a large sale all over the world.  {17MR 294.6}
[17MR 295.1]          When Willie told me of this suggestion, the thought at once came into my mind that the plan suggested might perhaps be best. If it were carried out, my royalty on the copies sold would help to settle my debts.  {17MR 295.1}
[17MR 295.2]          While these thoughts were passing through my mind, it was distinctly represented to me that Object Lessons was, in the plan of God, given to help our schools to roll away the terrible burden of debt. I saw clearly that the way in which the book had been handled was the Lord's plan, and that it was accomplishing great good.  {17MR 295.2}
[17MR 295.3]          I turned to Willie, and said, "I made of that book an offering to the Lord, and I cannot take it off the altar of sacrifice. As long as I live, that book is to be handled as none of my other books have been handled. And when I am no longer with you, you must see that this book is kept on the altar of sacrifice. I will not change a plan that has already brought to the cause of God, for the relief of our schools, two hundred thousand dollars."  {17MR 295.3}
[17MR 295.4]          Willie's lips quivered. Tears came into his eyes, and he said, "Yes, Mother, the matter is settled now, never to be changed."  {17MR 295.4}
[17MR 295.5]          But I have written fully on this particular subject elsewhere, so I will not give you any more particulars, but will send you a copy of what I have written to our leading brethren.  {17MR 295.5}
[17MR 295.6]          Many schools, large and small, are to be established in country places, and the proceeds from the sale of Object Lessons will be needed in this work. The sale of this book is under the Lord's supervision. He will continue to make it a blessing.                                         -296-  {17MR 295.6}
[17MR 296.1]          I feel an intense desire that more shall be done to warn the world of the coming of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. I want to do all in my power to arouse our brethren to resist the temptation to erect many food factories and food stores for the manufacture and sale of health foods. There is danger that the minds of those engaged in the health food work will become absorbed in commercial interests. The attention of young and old will be given to these interests, and the proclamation of the gospel message will be neglected. At this time we need men who are filled with zeal for the circulation of our larger books.  {17MR 296.1}
[17MR 296.2]          Our young men should enter the field as canvassers, evangelists, and physicians. As they go forth they will gain a knowledge of how to do medical missionary work and of how to present the message of truth. If the talents of men and women and youth are to be bound up in food factories, food stores, and hygienic restaurants, where are the workers for other branches of the cause to come from?  {17MR 296.2}
[17MR 296.3]          We are now to prepare for the marriage supper of the Lamb. We are to give the message everywhere, in the highways and the hedges, to high and low, rich and poor. House-to-house work is to be done. I am becoming afraid as I see how little soul-saving work is done by our restaurants. As I think of these things, I am instructed that unless the restaurant work is managed in such a way as to save souls, the young people engaged in it will be in danger of losing their interest in present truth. God would have us make decided plans to keep as far as possible from the snares that await those who enter largely into food speculations. We must pray, and watch unto prayer, and we must find out the real results of the restaurant work.                                        -297-  {17MR 296.3}
[17MR 297.1]          The Lord calls for men and women to stand on the watchtower and sound the warning, as they see many things coming in to absorb the mind and call the attention from eternal things. We are to be getting ready to move to the better country, to the mansions that Christ is preparing for those who love Him. We have a special message to give. We cannot be silent now. We must arouse from our lethargy and, realizing our danger, prepare for eternity.  {17MR 297.1}
[17MR 297.2]          Tuesday morning. This morning we received an excellent letter from Sister Haskell. I am sure that a good work is being done in New York, and I wish that the work there were a hundredfold stronger than it is.  {17MR 297.2}
[17MR 297.3]          Dr. Kellogg has written me an excellent letter. I wish that he could unload from the many burdens that he should not be carrying, for while he carries these burdens he cannot do justice to himself or to the medical missionary work in which he acts so important a part.  {17MR 297.3}
[17MR 297.4]          I know that God will give us light if we will be humble and contrite. But my soul is greatly troubled for many who are in partial blindness. There are those who refuse to see the meaning of the destruction of two of our largest institutions. God has borne long with these men. When He saw that they were determined to disregard His counsels, He spoke in judgment. He will not be dishonored, and make no sign.  {17MR 297.4}
[17MR 297.5]          We are warned that the Lord will come suddenly, surprising the world in their idolatrous wickedness. But I sincerely hope that our people will see the necessity of drawing near to God. We need at this time clear, decided testimonies, which are right to the point. The end of all things is at hand. I may see it myself. May God help me to do my work faithfully, that I may be ready to meet Him--watching, waiting, and praying. Only a little while longer and we shall see the King in His beauty.--Letter 243, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 297.5}
[17MR 298.1]       MR No. 1286 - W. O. Palmer and the Food Business in the South         (Written January 12, 1904, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to George I. Butler.)            I have received and read your letter of January 1, and will now try to answer it.  {17MR 298.1}
[17MR 298.2]          I cannot advise you to keep anyone on the board of the Publishing Association who does not fill that position faithfully and with consecrated ability. Those who are placed in positions of trust in God's work must be as true as steel to principle, honoring their position. Those who are on the ground will know best what should be done in the case to which you refer.  {17MR 298.2}
[17MR 298.3]          I have feared that Brother W. O. Palmer would not be successful in his business enterprises. You will remember, perhaps, that when I was leaving Nashville, he was there; ［and］ he asked me in regard to the food business. I told him that if this business were entered into for self-profit, it would not have God's commendation. He said, "That settles the matter for me. I will keep out of the food business."  {17MR 298.3}
[17MR 298.4]          Brother Palmer should not enter into large business enterprises, for he is too free with money, and he will always be worsted. I did not expect the Dixie Food Company to prove a success, and I did not want Edson to have any part in it whatever.  {17MR 298.4}
[17MR 298.5]          I feel very, very sorry for Brother Palmer. If he has done wrong in any way, try to help him for Christ's sake. Save him if you can. I hope and pray that he will come out of this experience without losing his hold on God. The light given me regarding him is that his greatest danger is in uniting with                                          -299-     worldly men, and thus losing his interest in the truth. I have a letter written to him that I must send him.  {17MR 298.5}
[17MR 299.1]          Is it not your duty to take up the case of the man who says that Brother Palmer has wronged him, and see that justice is done him? Brother Palmer has excellent abilities. When he is sanctified, body, soul, and spirit, God can use him. But when he loses his hold on God, his natural tendencies to wrong take control, and he deals unjustly.--Letter 15, 1904.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 299.1}
[17MR 300.1]       MR No. 1287 - Workers in Food Business to Emphasize Spiritual Values and Witnessing         I am entrusted with a message. In our food work have we not been walking and working more nearly after the pattern of the world than after the pattern of Christ? What words have we spoken to the large multitudes we have fed? How are we presenting to these souls the Bread of Life? Can Christ say to us, "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"? Can each worker truthfully say, "My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work"?  {17MR 300.1}
[17MR 300.2]          There is great danger that some will devote their entire energies in commercial work, trying to maintain large food factories without financial loss, and thus lose a sense of the necessity of eating that Bread which is life to the soul. For years I have seen that in our food work we have been on the losing side. This work has not been the means it should--to reveal Christ as the One who can give to us eternal life.  {17MR 300.2}
[17MR 300.3]          We cannot afford to keep up a strife for gain, in our ambitious endeavor to manufacture a large variety of foods, losing our time for prayer and for feeding upon the Word. We must, by eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God, perfect a character fitted for the heavenly courts.  {17MR 300.3}
[17MR 300.4]          Said Christ, "My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work." Shall we take up a work of preparing food for multitudes of unbelievers, and yet leave unspoken the words of life? Shall we so busy ourselves in the preparation of many lines of food that we cannot give an example of what it means to receive and to practice the Word of life?--Ms. 79, 1906, pp. 3, 4.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987.  {17MR 300.4}
[17MR 301.1]       MR No. 1288 - Consultation Regarding the Work of G. C. Tenney; Prayer Offered for G. A. Anderson and Others         (Diary entry written April 26, 1893, in Wellington, New Zealand.)          Willie and I have ［had a］ consultation in regard to Elder Tenney. Shall a telegram be sent to Elder Tenney to remain in America, or to return to Australia? We felt--both Willie and myself--that for several reasons it would be wisdom for him to return. The impression has been entertained by some that it was a scheme concocted by our American brethren to have him go to America to the General Conference and then manage to have him remain there. We do not want the brethren in Australia to have this impression--that W.C.W. and I have been working in an underhanded manner, because it is not true. We looked the situation all over and decided that Elder Tenney should attend the General Conference. After being separated so long from the great center of the work he had lost the impressions that are essential for him to have in regard to the management and progress of the work.  {17MR 301.1}
[17MR 301.2]          Nearly everything in Australia was revolving around Brother Tenney, and he was not broadening and his ideas were not enlarging with the increasing progress of the work. He needs so much to grow out of the dwarfed ideas which he has through want of association with the larger workings of the cause and with the brethren who were engaged in the living interests in America. He was becoming narrow and bound about in his ideas, and had not a sense of the greatness and the progress the work must make in this country. He has felt this decidedly, as                                          -302-     I was assured he would after meeting in conference our brethren who were infused with the living interests that were stirring their souls to decided action in doing something. We decided that the telegram must go at once: "Return to this country to engage in the work all over the field as the providence of God may indicate duty."  {17MR 301.2}
[17MR 302.1]         In the after part of the day a telegram came from Napier that Elder Wilson, who contracted the measles from Sister Joseph Hare, has had a relapse, and prayer is solicited in his behalf. Brethren Israel, Starr, W.C.W., and Simpson came into the parlor occupied by me, and we have had a prayer season. We all sent up our requests to the Lord. A letter also was received in regard to Brother Anderson, who was laboring for the Scandinavians in Ormondville. He labored for a while in the bush among the working class, and it was damp and wet. He contracted the rheumatism, and we prayed for Brother Anderson and Brother McCullagh that the Lord would heal these brethren and strengthen them to engage in active labor in His cause. Brother McCullagh is an excellent laborer, and the people all speak highly of his ability.--Ms 80, 1893, pp. 5, 6.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987.  {17MR 302.1}
[17MR 303.1]       MR No. 1289 - Non-Essential Subjects to be Avoided; Soul Winners to Educate and Use All Talents; Baptismal Candidates to be Fully Instructed                  (Written September 12, 1904, in Omaha, Nebraska.)          Those who take upon themselves little responsibility as Christians, become dwarfed in religious growth, and their spiritual dwarfage, unless checked, results in spiritual death. But workers who perform faithfully the duties given them of God receive more and more grace. From their lives the truth shines forth more and more clearly. They are given power to glorify God.  {17MR 303.1}
[17MR 303.2]          All who follow on to know the Lord will have increased knowledge. They will be enabled to help and bless others by setting a Christlike example. The path in which they walk grows brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. Their conversion becomes more and more decided, and they are vessels unto honor. God's purpose for His workers is that they shall grow up unto the full stature of men and women in Christ.  {17MR 303.2}
[17MR 303.3]         There is to be an avoidance of controversy. We are to speak the truth in love. False doctrines of every kind will be brought in to divert the mind from a plain "Thus saith the Lord." Wherever we go, we shall find men ready with some side issue. While I was at Melrose, a man came with a message that the world is flat. I was instructed to present the commission that Christ gave His disciples just before His ascension, as recorded in Matthew 28:16-20. ［Matthew 28:16-20, quoted.］                                           -304-  {17MR 303.3}
[17MR 304.1]         We are not to allow our minds to be occupied by subjects such as that presented by this man. In regard to such subjects, God says to every soul, "What is that to thee? Follow thou Me. I have given you your commission. Dwell upon the great testing truths for this time, not upon matters that have no bearing upon our work."  {17MR 304.1}
[17MR 304.2]          Again and again these non-essential subjects have been agitated, but their discussion has never done a particle of good. We are not to allow our attention to be diverted from the proclamation of the message given us. For years I have been instructed that we are not to give our attention to non-essential questions. There are questions of the highest importance to be considered. "What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?" the lawyer asked Christ. The Saviour answered, "What is written in the law? how readest thou?" "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself."  {17MR 304.2}
[17MR 304.3]          The questions Christ considered essential are the questions that we are to urge home today. We are not bidden to enter into discussion regarding unimportant subjects. Our work is to lead minds to the great principles of the law of God.  {17MR 304.3}
[17MR 304.4]          The Need of a Thorough Preparation for Ministerial Work. During the night many scenes passed before me, and many questions in reference to the work that we are to do for our Master, the Lord Jesus Christ, have been made plain and clear. Words were spoken by One of authority, and I will try to repeat in finite words the instruction given regarding the work to be done. The heavenly messenger said, The ministry is becoming greatly enfeebled because men are                                           -305-     assuming the responsibility of preaching without gaining the needed preparation for this work.  {17MR 304.4}
[17MR 305.1]          Those who give themselves to the ministry of the Word of God enter a most important work. The gospel ministry is a high and sacred calling. Properly done, the work of the gospel minister will add many souls to the fold. Many have made a mistake in receiving credentials. They will have to take up work to which they are better adapted than the preaching of the Word. They are being paid from the tithe, but their efforts are feeble, and they should not continue to be paid from the tithe. In many ways the ministry is losing its sacred character.  {17MR 305.1}
[17MR 305.2]          Those who are called and chosen to the ministry of the Word will be true, self-sacrificing workers together with Christ. "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth," Christ said. "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you." This commission is given to every ordained minister. The minister who is merely a speaker, who does not labor as Christ labored, putting his whole soul intelligently into the work, needs the true conversion.  {17MR 305.2}
[17MR 305.3]          Those who preach the gospel without putting the whole being--heart, mind, soul, and strength--into their work, are consumers and not producers. God calls for men who realize that they must put forth earnest action, men who bring thought, zeal, prudence, capability, and the attributes of Christ's character, into their work. The saving of souls is a vast work, which calls for the employment of every talent, every gift of grace. Those engaged in this work should constantly increase in efficiency. They should have an earnest desire to                                          -306-     strengthen their powers, realizing that they will be weak without a constantly increasing supply of grace. They should seek to attain larger and still larger results in their work.  {17MR 305.3}
[17MR 306.1]          When this is the experience of our workers, fruit will be seen. Many souls will be brought into the truth.  {17MR 306.1}
[17MR 306.2]          Our churches are becoming enfeebled by receiving for doctrines the commandments of men. Many are received into the church who are not converted. Men, women, and children are allowed to take part in the solemn rite of baptism without being fully instructed in regard to the meaning of His ordinance. Participation in this ordinance means much, and our ministers should be careful to give each candidate plain instruction in regard to its meaning and its solemnity. Our church members see that there are differences of opinion among the leading men, and they themselves enter into controversy regarding the subjects under dispute. Christ calls for unity. But He does not call for us to unify on wrong practices. The God of heaven draws a sharp contrast between pure, elevating, ennobling truth and false, misleading doctrines. He calls sin and impenitence by the right name. He does not gloss over wrongdoing with a coat of untempered mortar.  {17MR 306.2}
[17MR 306.3]          I urge our brethren to unify upon a true, Scriptural basis. The Lord calls for intelligent, industrious workers who will do that which needs to be done. Sanitariums are to be established in many places. To the poor and to the rich is to be given the message of healing through Christ.  {17MR 306.3}
[17MR 306.4]          My brethren, work earnestly and seriously. This does not mean that you are not to be cheerful, but that you are to put your whole heart into the work of preparing the way for Christ's coming. He calls for whole-hearted, unselfish                                             -307-     men to sound the note of warning.--Ms 10, 1905. ("Non-Essential Subjects To Be Avoided," Sept. 12, 1904.)     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. August 6, 1987. Entire Ms.  {17MR 306.4}
[17MR 308.1]       MR No. 1290 - God's Counsel to be Sought Before Enlarging Buildings; Means Needed for Opening New Fields         (Written June 14, 1895, from Norfolk Villa, NSW, to Dr. J. H. Kellogg.)          I thank you for the letters you have sent, and will now try to reply to them as best I can. The first American mail for this month was sent off yesterday, but another mail goes by the Vancouver on the 20th, by which you will receive this letter. Brother McCoy wrote me in reference to enlarging some of your buildings, and especially mentioned the enlarging of your bakery, saying that this was very much needed. I must leave you to settle the matter as you think best, for your necessities are known to yourselves and to God. I have given you the light that God has given me in regard to investing means in erecting buildings, and I must have no voice in saying anything further about the matter.  {17MR 308.1}
[17MR 308.2]          I have been much pained because means have been invested in putting up additional school buildings at Battle Creek, when this was uncalled for. The college was large enough to accommodate the students that could be managed successfully in the school. The fact of the matter was that those in charge were not able to manage the students that were already in attendance, as they should be managed, and the money invested in putting up new buildings was greatly needed in planting the standard of truth in cities in America, and in opening new fields to the living minister. We have great need of means in this far off portion of the Lord's vineyard. But I dare not counsel you on the matter of which you have spoken, for I know that much depends on the wise                                             -309-     decisions you will make. All I can say to you is, Go to God, and talk with Him about this matter. Ask Him that the Holy Spirit may work upon you. View the necessities of the field and present your petitions to God, and let Him impress your mind.  {17MR 308.2}
[17MR 309.1]         You know that I have had light to the effect that there are altogether too many interests centered in Battle Creek. Progress ought to be made elsewhere. How many cities there are in America which have been left untouched! Why not let some of your energies be devoted to setting men at work in different localities? Let the influence of truth be far-reaching. Let the knowledge of how to preserve health be widely disseminated. Let work be begun where scarcely anything has been accomplished.--Letter 43, 1895, pp. 1, 2.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Sept. 3, 1987.  {17MR 309.1}
[17MR 310.1]       MR No. 1291 - Counsel Not to Overwork; Present Short Messages; Be Thoroughly Converted         (Written October 13, 1903, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to G. I. Butler.)            I have received two or three letters from you recently, but have not been able to answer them, for I have been very busy preparing matter to be sent to the brethren in council at Washington. I will now try to write you a few lines. Your letters were all most interesting. I wish that I could see you and talk with you, but this cannot be. I say to you, Be of good courage in the Lord. He knows the perplexities that we must meet in our labors, and He will give us strength according to our need.  {17MR 310.1}
[17MR 310.2]          I ask you again not to overwork. We must keep a little strength in reserve to meet the emergencies that will arise. Do not, because you have a deposit in the bank, keep drawing on it until you have overdrawn. You and I both need to heed this caution.  {17MR 310.2}
[17MR 310.3]         I rejoice to know that you realize that our strength is wholly in the Lord. Let us daily offer the most earnest prayer to Him. Yesterday morning I was up at two, and this morning a little after two. I dressed, and then knelt in prayer to ask God for special help. I long to see the salvation of God.  {17MR 310.3}
[17MR 310.4]          I am glad to hear that there is a prospect of Brother Amadon's coming from Battle Creek to help in the publishing house at Nashville. This will be a good move.                                         -311-  {17MR 310.4}
[17MR 311.1]          I am very sorry that Hiland does not come to your help. I realize your loneliness, because I have seen it, and I sympathize with you. If Hiland were with you, you could lay part of your work on him, and then you would not have to carry so heavy a burden. You need him, and he should allow nothing to prevent him from going to you and standing by your side. Do not worry that this has not yet been brought about. The word of the Lord to Hiland was that he was to go to you and help you in your work. This has been signified as his duty, and I am sure that erelong God will bring it about, for He lives and reigns. The wheel of God's providence may turn slowly, but it will turn. I may not live to see this, but I know that it will turn.  {17MR 311.1}
[17MR 311.2]          I am glad that your coming meeting is not to be at Graysville. Nashville is the place for it. Nothing has been revealed that would make the holding of such a meeting at Nashville, wisely conducted, out of harmony with the will of God. We have telegraphed Edson the following message: "Institutes in large cities, accompanied by public effort, greatly needed. Go ahead in Nashville." So feel at rest in regard to this matter. Do not worry, but believe and hope in God. Trust His living word.  {17MR 311.2}
[17MR 311.3]          I wish to speak of another point. In regard to Brother Rogers connecting with the Huntsville school, I thought at first that this might be best, but light has come to me that he can accomplish a much greater work in Vicksburg. In a short time, as the work opens up in the large cities, he will be needed as a man who can be depended upon. At present he is needed in Vicksburg. Let God use the men of capability just where their influence will tell for the most good. Brother Nicola has been placed in charge of the Huntsville school. Give                                         -312-     him another trial, and keep looking for a man to take hold there who is sound and solid in every respect, and who will stand firm for principle.  {17MR 311.3}
[17MR 312.1]          At this time we need, not men who will catch up new, fanciful ideas, but men who will catch the notes that sound from the heavenly courts, and who, without consulting any man, will obey God's orders. We have been warned that the enemy will bring in his deceptive working. In so subtle a way will he work that he will appear to be an angel of light. I am bidden to lift up my voice and say to all our people, Beware, beware. Those who, having had warnings and entreaties and counsels, still follow their own will, are not laborers together with God.  {17MR 312.1}
[17MR 312.2]          There are proud, Pharisaical men who think that it would be a great humiliation to confess that they had sinned. Thus Satan thought. Pride, self-sufficiency, a life of untruth--these things are barring their way to heaven. Could they see themselves as they are looked upon in the heavenly courts, their garments of self-righteousness would fall from them, leaving them ashamed, naked, condemned. For years they have had hardly a glimmer of light from the throne of God, and they have forgotten what it means to have a clear sense of justice and righteousness. They have given place to underhand working to take advantage of others, and they know not what it means to be filled with spiritual life. When the time of test comes, they will find that their refuge of lies will not shield them from the searching eyes of Him who sees every discrepancy, every falsehood.  {17MR 312.2}
[17MR 312.3]          It has been long since such an one has taken a candid view of himself in the divine mirror. So long has he thought that the end justifies the means that                                             -313-     he has scarcely a conviction of sufficient force to work a reformation. If he should in parable have presented to him the difference between the genuine and the false, the eternal contrast between truth and falsehood, if he would see the need of integrity in the everyday life, his heart would be filled with humiliation and sorrow, as he thought of the influence of his departures from righteousness, and of the many who had learned from him how to act under similar circumstances. Would he not strive to break the yoke of habit? Would he not cease to do evil, no longer remaining feeble in moral power, lacking the grace of Christ, feeling no right to claim pardon and to put on the robe of Christ's righteousness?  {17MR 312.3}
[17MR 313.1]          He has sometimes "swept and garnished" his house, and put on the garments of joy and gladness. But he did not surrender himself fully for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit; and after time old habits reasserted their power. He failed, and went back to his evil practices, and his condition became worse than it was before he made the attempt to reform.  {17MR 313.1}
[17MR 313.2]          Christ says, "When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he said, I will return unto my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in, and dwell there."  {17MR 313.2}
[17MR 313.3]          There are those over whom the control of Satan seems for a time to be broken; through the grace of God they are set free from the evil spirit that has held dominion over the soul. But they do not surrender themselves to God daily, that Christ might dwell in the heart; and when the evil spirit returns with                                         -314-     "seven other spirits more wicked than himself," he is wholly dominated by the power of evil.  {17MR 313.3}
[17MR 314.1]          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 working, 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. But unless we do yield ourselves to the control of Christ, we shall be dominated by the wicked one.  {17MR 314.1}
[17MR 314.2]          ［2 Peter 1:2-8, quoted.］ As we work upon the plan of addition, adding these graces to our character, God works for us upon the plan of multiplication.  {17MR 314.2}
[17MR 314.3]         Then comes the warning to those who fail to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God which worketh in them. "He that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins."  {17MR 314.3}
[17MR 314.4]          He has not purified his soul daily by praying and watching unto prayer, and he makes a new record of sin. He drifts with the current of worldliness.  {17MR 314.4}
[17MR 314.5]          "Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fail: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." This is the eternal life insurance policy                                              -315-     granted to those who in this life obey the dictates of the Holy Spirit. Is it not well worth striving for?  {17MR 314.5}
[17MR 315.1]          "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. Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance."  {17MR 315.1}
[17MR 315.2]          I thank God for these words of encouragement. Why should we not all stop grumbling, and putting stones in front of the wheels of the car of progress?  {17MR 315.2}
[17MR 315.3]          ［Verses 16-19, quoted.］        I send you these words that you may be encouraged to press forward when great difficulties arise. Preserve your health. We must be prepared to meet every conceivable form of the working of Satan. I am called upon to lift the danger signal, and I call upon you, Elder Butler, to bear a plain testimony before the people. But do not speak lengthily, for this wearies you, and those who hear cannot remember what is said so well as if the talks were shorter. Let your discourses be short and right to the point. May the Lord help you and me to speak the word of truth plainly and clearly.--Letter 219, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Sept. 3, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 315.3}
[17MR 316.1]      MR No. 1292 - The Importance of Philippians 2 and 3; God's Law To Be Proclaimed and Obeyed         (Written August 17 and 25, 1903, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to W. C. White.)            I am trying to keep up good courage in the Lord. I am beginning to feel sorry that I have not visited Healdsburg before this time. I would go today if I were prepared for the journey. I must look to the Lord every moment. His hand will I hold by faith, and will not let go.  {17MR 316.1}
[17MR 316.2]          I am unable to sleep after two o'clock. Some things trouble me exceedingly, but I must not lay my burdens upon any other soul. When I think of the spiritual blindness of many who profess to believe the truth, my heart is made very sad. Many cannot see afar off, and have forgotten that they were purged from their old sins. How can it be possible for them to forget, and to go back to their old practices wherein they stood condemned before God? How can they afford to go upon the enemy's ground, where they are subject to his temptations?  {17MR 316.2}
[17MR 316.3]         In every city, and in all parts of the world, we hear of "reforms, reforms." But what are the world's reforms? Men seek to bear rule over their fellow men, and the results show that those so-called reforms are instigated by a power from beneath. An intense desire to rule has been taking possession of men's minds. And the rulers themselves are controlled by the princes of the power of the air.                                            -317-  {17MR 316.3}
[17MR 317.1]          I am troubled in regard to the publishing work. I ask if the same men, Brethren Evans and Rhodes, who have occupied responsible positions in the office of publication at Battle Creek, are to be leaders in the publishing work in Washington. In the past, Brother Sisley, with his strong spirit, too often stood on the negative side. He has done many strange things, and his course has been an education to others in the office who were carrying responsibilities. Had he been thoroughly under the guidance of the Lord, he might have exerted an influence that would have molded and fashioned others in accordance with the pure principles of Bible truth. But for many years he refused to yield himself to the will and way of God. The precious grace of Jesus Christ was not revealed through him.  {17MR 317.1}
[17MR 317.2]          August 25, 1903. ［Philippians 2:1-16, quoted.］        This is the best instruction that can be given at this time. Will our leading brethren earnestly take heed, and work to fulfill this instruction? It is so clear that there is no excuse for anyone to walk contrary to the will of God. Who is ready and willing thankfully to obey these words, which at this time are of such great importance to us?  {17MR 317.2}
[17MR 317.3]          Our people need to read and study the whole of this chapter--the second chapter of Philippians--and read also the third chapter. Let not the lessons of these chapters be disregarded.  {17MR 317.3}
[17MR 317.4]          "What things were gain to me," Paul writes, "those I counted loss for Christ." ［Philippians 3:8-15, quoted.］  {17MR 317.4}
[17MR 317.5]          These words came not from a human mind. They are truths that were declared in vision to the apostle Paul, to whom God gave many revelations. They are recorded for the benefit of all who desire to be sincere, earnest, wholehearted                                            -318-     Christians, obedient to all God's requirements. They are the fundamental principles of the law that declares the whole duty of man.  {17MR 317.5}
[17MR 318.1]          Human beings are Christ's property--the purchase of His blood. By creation and redemption they belong to Him; therefore He claims their undivided service. But many are unsanctified, unwilling to submit to God, cherish evil hereditary and cultivated traits of character. So much of self and so little of Christ is cherished in the heart, that they do the will and works of the arch-deceiver. They are not laborers together with God. They need to be converted. Those who would be teachers need first to learn to do the will of God.  {17MR 318.1}
[17MR 318.2]          To everyone who will serve Him, Christ has given his individual task. Each is to discharge with faithfulness the trust committed to him, and all are to help one another. Never are we to forget that as human beings we belong to a common brotherhood.  {17MR 318.2}
[17MR 318.3]          We are to strive daily through the grace of God to discharge every responsibility that rests upon us. We are to study the Word, that we may learn how best to honor and glorify God, who "so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  {17MR 318.3}
[17MR 318.4]          God would have the rulers of the nations know that He is the supreme Ruler. Those who preside over the affairs of nations should realize that there is a King of kings. The man who does not know God as his Father, and Jesus Christ as the only begotten Son of the infinite God, cannot rule wisely. He who has been placed where he has authority over others should seek the Lord for wisdom, that he may govern wisely the subjects of God's kingdom. An earthly ruler cannot exercise authority wisely or set an example that is safe to follow unless he                                            -319-     obtains wisdom from the God who is too wise to err and too good to do injustice to His human subjects.  {17MR 318.4}
[17MR 319.1]          In the law of the kingdom of God who rules the sinless inhabitants of heaven are to be found the principles that should lie at the foundation of the laws of earthly governments. The laws of these governments should be in harmony with the law of Jehovah, the standard by which all created beings are to be judged. No man should be forced to act in harmony with human laws that are in direct opposition to the law that God has given.  {17MR 319.1}
[17MR 319.2]          The law of God, with its binding claims and its solemn injunctions, should be clearly and distinctly set forth just as it is given in the decalogue. We should make efforts to call together large congregations to hear the words of the gospel minister. And those who preach the word of the Lord should speak the truth. They should bring their hearers, as it were, to the foot of Sinai, to listen to the words spoken by God amidst scenes of awful grandeur. These words are as changeless and eternal as the throne of Jehovah.  {17MR 319.2}
[17MR 319.3]          Those who have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit will not fail to urge the claims of the law of God, and to impress upon the rulers and the subjects of earthly nations the importance of obeying the commandments of God. Let all understand that they are working in harmony either with the Lord or with the great rebel, the enemy of God and man.  {17MR 319.3}
[17MR 319.4]          By the repetition of the solemn words spoken by the Monarch of the universe, and the presentation of His claims upon the human family, many will be impressed. While some will refuse to listen and will turn away, many will be aroused as the words of God are spoken through His appointed agencies. Sinners                                            -320-     will tremble. Many will awake to a sense of their duty, and will find from experience that "the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul."  {17MR 319.4}
[17MR 320.1]          The rulers of the nations need to plant their feet upon the platform of eternal truth. They should not be allowed, because of ignorance, to build their houses on the sand. These men are not to be worshiped as gods. They are accountable to God for their course of action. To Him they must answer if they become a savor of death unto death to those who are under their jurisdiction.  {17MR 320.1}
[17MR 320.2]          As men are impressed with the importance of the law of God and the solemnity of the scenes connected with its proclamation, as in imagination they stand in the presence of God and His Son, they will say as did Moses when he beheld the majesty of God and thought of the high and holy principles of the law, and of his own impurity, "I exceedingly fear and quake."  {17MR 320.2}
[17MR 320.3]          Some may turn away, saying, "I am exceedingly afraid. Let not God speak to me any more." And when they are removed from the immediate glory of the mountain, they will begin to criticize the sternness of the requirements of the law. They will say, "Prophesy unto us smooth things. It fills us with terror to look at our lives in the light of that law."  {17MR 320.3}
[17MR 320.4]          The sermon on the mount is an exposition of the law of God. We need to become more familiar with this scripture. We need to study the following words: ［Matthew 5:17-20, quoted］.  {17MR 320.4}
[17MR 320.5]          Here is the gospel message that is to be preached to the world. The grand result at which we are to aim is freedom from sin. Not one dishonest action, in kings or nobles, ministers or teachers, will be overlooked by the Lord. At Sinai God gave His people a solemn, sacred charge. It is of the utmost importance that we faithfully obey the law of God.                                             -321-  {17MR 320.5}
[17MR 321.1]          There are many who profess to be loyal and true to God. But how many of these are keeping every precept of the law of Jehovah?  {17MR 321.1}
[17MR 321.2]          I have a message for the presidents of our schools. Have you exalted the law of Christ's kingdom by giving to it willing obedience? If you are not of yourselves under the control of the Ruler of the universe, how can you obey His law, as required in His Word? We know that it is the determined purpose of some to be obedient to every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Such men and women will be given power of intellect to see the difference between righteousness and unrighteousness. They have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul, and they reveal God to the world.  {17MR 321.2}
[17MR 321.3]          To those in charge of our schools I would say, Are you making God and His law your delight? Are the principles that you follow sound and pure and unadulterated? Are you keeping yourselves, in the life-practice, under the control of God? Do you see the necessity of obeying Him in every particular? If you are tempted to appropriate the money coming into the school, in ways that bring no special benefit to the school, your standard of principle needs to be carefully criticized, that the time may not come when you will have to be criticized and found wanting.  {17MR 321.3}
[17MR 321.4]          Who is your bookkeeper? Who is your treasurer? Who is your business manager? Are they careful and competent? Look to this. It is possible for thousands of dollars to be misappropriated, apparently without anyone understanding how, and the school be losing continually. Those in charge may feel this keenly, supposing they have done their best. But why do debts accumulate? Let those in charge of a school find out each month the true financial standing of the school.                                             -322-            ［James 1:2-7, 19-27, quoted.］--Letter 187, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Sept. 3, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 321.4}
[17MR 323.1]       MR No. 1293 - A Report on Soul Winning Efforts, Office Matters, and Household and Family Items         (Written Nov. 23, 1885, from Basel, Switzerland, to W. C. White.)          I have sent you one letter since coming back to Basel. In regard to Marian's coming I dare not say. If I was sure that we would go to America next May, I would not think it best to disappoint Marian's plans. I just want her to do the things that will be for her health and after-usefulness. If she really wishes to give some time to study, she ought to have the privilege of doing this. I dare not urge her to come to Europe. I will send matters to be published if I am able to write. I shall not write as diligently as I have done.  {17MR 323.1}
[17MR 323.2]          I certainly have never done as much work in the same amount of time as in the last four months, and I am thankful to the Lord for this. How long it will be duty to stay here, I cannot tell, but just as long as it seems to be duty to stay I will do this cheerfully, although expenses are going on of housekeeping at Healdsburg. I have my cow and horse that I have to feed, and my expenses are running on, but this is not of any consideration with me. I want to know my duty and do it cheerfully.  {17MR 323.2}
[17MR 323.3]         Although very weary I spoke to the people assembled on the Sabbath in the afternoon. Several not of our faith were present. There were four students from the theological college. Two came for the first time. The converted Jew has been turned out because he came to our meetings. This, Brother Whitney                                             -324-     thinks, aroused the attention of other students, and two have come quite often to attend the meetings. They are interested. They have not heard a discourse but have come to the Sabbath afternoon meetings, and seemed interested. They have read the papers, and they came of themselves to talk with Brother Whitney and the hands in the office, of the reason for their faith. The name of one of the young men is Zree, and he says he will not be prevented from investigating. They seemed interested in the Sabbath afternoon meetings. Many good testimonies were borne.  {17MR 323.3}
[17MR 324.1]          Edith ［Andrews］ was brought into meeting and she bore her testimony, but I am sorry to say she is not spiritual and does not know how to come to the light. ［IT IS BELIEVED THAT SHE WAS CONVERTED SHORTLY BEFORE SHE DIED.］  {17MR 324.1}
[17MR 324.2]         Sunday morning I attended early meeting with the office workers, prayed with them and talked with them. They seemed interested and, some, deeply affected. Then after the meeting closed I talked with the girls in the office in relation to Edith and the close friendship and attention they were giving her. I told them they had made her an idol and had flattered her and petted her until she was entirely deceived in regard to herself. She was not awake to her needs. She felt not ［that］ she needed a Physician. They had helped her to this state of blindness by their worshiping her, that this extra love was so choice its fragrance could be permitted to go to only a few while others, more devotional, more worthy, were excluded. I told them that this deception would be fatal to Edith if it was kept up to the last. She wanted to be diverted and amused when the hours ［given］ to her ［by God］ were solemn and precious, to be                                             -325-     devoted to preparation of heart to meet her Saviour in the morning of the resurrection.  {17MR 324.2}
[17MR 325.1]          I wished them to review the past and see if in one instance Edith had led their minds and affections heavenward, if they could think of any time she had talked of Jesus and heaven and the truth. I told them she had led their minds away from the truth, away from devotion of God, to human worship. They had an admiration society, seeking to be loved, praised, petted, and this had separated their affection from God so that not one of those who were so sympathetic, so loving, so devoted to Edith, was learning to wear Christ's yoke or to carry His burdens. They were backsliding from God, and in the place of giving Him the heart's best and loveliest affections they were placing confidence and love upon an earthly, erring creature. They did not love Edith because she was devotional, because she lived so near to Jesus, but because they thought her perfection. She pleased them but she did not please Jesus or really love Jesus. I talked to them very plainly and shall not see these young people deceived. I shall talk with Edwin and John Vuilleumier.  {17MR 325.1}
[17MR 325.2]          Brother Whitney has just come into our room and he says the two young men have come again to talk with them. He talked and prayed with them. One has investigated so that he sees now that he must lift the cross. He says he does not hesitate because he will be laughed at or reproached, but he feels keenly at the thought of disappointing his parents who expect him to be educated for a minister. He says he has stated to the principal his convictions and he tells him that if he does keep the Sabbath he must leave the college. Ministers have labored with them, then they bring the arguments to our brethren in the office,                                           -326-     and they show them the difference between the teachings of the Bible and the sayings of men. The one who is convinced says he will write an essay on the Sabbath question and read it in his class. There seems to be quite a stir in the college just now. Oh, that God would move upon hearts, convict and convert souls.  {17MR 325.2}
[17MR 326.1]          Elder Bourdeau is thinking of holding meetings in a hall in Geneva while Ertzenberger and Vuilleumier are working in a place not far from there. Daniel feels like going into the work in earnest. Oh, that God would help His servants to be wise to win souls. Brother Bourdeau says that he can call these brethren in after an interest is awakened.  {17MR 326.1}
[17MR 326.2]          We go to Italy next Thursday. Mary accompanies me. Ella will remain at home with Sarah and Christine. Brother Whitney goes with us to Italy. Sister Bourdeau goes with us, to remain a few weeks. I think it will not be best to remain long now; a few weeks will be enough. If we see occasion for remaining sixty days, the length of our ticket, we can do so. Brother Whitney thinks ［that］ when I shall return here Brother Ertzenberger better commence meetings here and Brother Conradi join him and make a regular effort to bring souls to the knowledge of the truth.  {17MR 326.2}
[17MR 326.3]          We are all well under this roof except Edith, and Ella has had ［a］ cold and is not as well as usual. We see great improvements in Ella. We take great comfort with her.  {17MR 326.3}
[17MR 326.4]          Well, Willie, I hope you are well and that the blessing of the Lord is accompanying you in your meetings. We pray for you all assembled in conference. We shall follow you with our prayers. I now must stop writing, for I must rest. God bless you. May His peace rest upon you is the prayer of your Mother.                                           -327-  {17MR 326.4}
[17MR 327.1]          ［P.S.］ Willie, Mary was pleased with her cloak pattern. Come to see what she had, she had nothing fit to wear. Christine has cut it out and nearly made it. Mary and she are very busy now. Mary has got her an entire outfit from the remnant left of my dress, so we shall both have suits alike. I found Mary had purchased her nice flannel-cloth lined shoes and a beautiful pair of slippers lined with flannel. She thinks much of these comfortable things. Mary speaks from the dining room, "Tell Willie I like the cloak very much. We are really comfortably situated."  {17MR 327.1}
[17MR 327.2]          Today I went down and selected one of those earthen stoves for my room, which is the parlor. I cannot keep warm with the coils, and the iron stove makes me feel continually oppressed. Have had nosebleed nearly every day since I came home. This stove is on the same principle as those white ones in Sweden, but this one we have purchased is about five feet high, brown earthenware. It is a beauty for $20; they asked $22. So you see we shall be nicely fixed here for the winter.  {17MR 327.2}
[17MR 327.3]          Christine is just the one we need, so handy with the needle and willing to do any kind of work. She went into washing Sunday, earnestly, and was down on her knees scouring the tile floor. I think we did well to secure so good help. Brethren Whitney and Kellogg are true and earnest to do all they can for us. Brother Kellogg boards with us. They seem to think I must have everything I need to make me comfortable. But very little has been expended for furniture. Things picked up and borrowed have fitted us out with three good bedsteads and mattresses. Both rooms have carpets, not entirely covered, but ［they］ answer all purposes.                                           -328-  {17MR 327.3}
[17MR 328.1]          Willie, please send Lizzie N. Bangs $20, and charge to my account. Send to Lizzie N. Bangs, West Gorham, Maine. I wish you would see if you can get some pumpkin powder from H. S. Gurney, and get dried corn and small dried fruit if you can. We shall need some books, and I will send in my next ［letter］ what books I want you to bring to me.  {17MR 328.1}
[17MR 328.2]          Ella says, "Tell Papa I want to see him and kiss him. When will he come home?" See Aunt Mary and tell me how she is getting along. No one mentions her. Give her my love, and tell her to write to me and I will answer it.-- Letter 37, 1885.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. September 3, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 328.2}
[17MR 329.1]       MR No. 1294 - Labors in Switzerland; Converts Must be Willing to Carry the Cross; Plans and Techniques for Evangelism         Basel, Switzerland, Nov. 20.--It seems pleasant to be once more in our own temporary home. We find M. K. White much improved in health. She has gained ten pounds. Ella May White is not looking well. I am some anxious about her. She is troubled with catarrhal difficulty. We find the rooms pleasantly furnished with articles lent and picked up, so that we think it looks very homelike. But the stoves are insufficient to warm the rooms. I am cold all the time.  {17MR 329.1}
[17MR 329.2]          I have a conversation with Elder Whitney. He presents before me the necessity of our speedily visiting Italy. They need help at this time. I would have been gratified to have had a week's rest, but I must not consult my own wishes or my pleasure. Jesus did not live to please Himself. He lived to do others good, and He is our example in all things. A stove is placed in my room so that I may kindle a fire when I arise early in the morning. If I had only had this one day earlier I should have escaped this cold which I have contracted.  {17MR 329.2}
[17MR 329.3]         Basel, Nov. 21, 1885. Sabbath. At the close of Sabbath I opened my diary again. Today has been a day of weariness to me. Sabbath school was held in the forenoon. Brother Aufranc spoke to the people in French. In the afternoon I spoke to those assembled from John 3:14, 15. The Lord gave me strength and grace to address the people. Brother John Vuilleumier and an educated German                                           -330-     translated into both languages for the benefit of the French and of the Germans. The Spirit of the Lord seemed to be in our midst. We then had ［a］ social meeting. Many good testimonies were borne. These testimonies were translated to us.  {17MR 329.3}
[17MR 330.1]          A converted Jew spoke well. This Jew was attending the theological college in Basel. He came to our Swiss conference and seemed to be interested. He understands Hebrew. He was desirous that our people should give him employment, but as long as he did not esteem the truth of that value to step out upon it from real conviction of duty, we felt he should not be hired to obey the truth. If the truth was not of that value to him that he could make any and every sacrifice for the truth's sake--moving from principle and not be bribed or bought--the work is between God and his own soul.  {17MR 330.1}
[17MR 330.2]          The question is, What does God say? What does He require? If he has a heart to be obedient to that which he knows to be truth, then his works will be acceptable to God. If he is not conscientious, but would wait to see if he can find a convenient position where it will be no cross to obey the truth, then his obedience is not acceptable to God. He will have a religion of convenience--serve God when it is for his interest to do so, and let it alone and be disobedient when the truth stands in his way of ease or prosperity.  {17MR 330.2}
[17MR 330.3]          We dared not take up this converted Jew. We must pray for him. We must watch with interest to help him if we can, but leave him as much as possible to his conscience and to his God.  {17MR 330.3}
[17MR 330.4]          The transgression of the law is sin, and the true believer in Christ will cease to sin. He will abhor sin, which caused so great sufferings to his Redeemer. He will not continue in sin that grace may abound, but he will cast                                         -331-     away his sin--will war against the inclinations of the natural heart. This faith is not abstract, but attaches itself to actions. He shows the result of faith, which is obedience. He is learning to walk by faith, not by sight. He lives, yet not he, but Christ lives in him by faith. He eats, drinks, and does all things to the glory of God. Christ is to him first and last and best in everything.  {17MR 330.4}
[17MR 331.1]          We left this young man, with all his natural and acquired ability, to think, believe, and act before God conscientiously. We now see that this was the best course. He has continued to attend our meetings and has been turned out from the college. Now will be the time to help him to help himself. This move of the officials in the college has affected other youth. Two young men of the same college have come to our meetings on the Sabbath. They became interested through reading the papers. They have been looking into the reasons of our faith, and although in a school called "The Theological College," having a name to fit men to engage in the holy office of opening the Word of God to the people, our brethren state that they were astonished at such gross ignorance of Bible subjects, both in doctrines and the practical lessons of Christ. These young men have requested repeated interviews, which have been granted to them.  {17MR 331.1}
[17MR 331.2]          Last Sabbath two other intelligent young men came to the meeting and listened with deepest interest. After the meeting the two who have been interested had an interview with our youthful workers in the office, inquiring the meaning of certain scriptures. In the evening I had a long interview with Brother and Sister Whitney in relation to some important matters connected with the workers in the office. We talked until a late hour. I carried the burden on my soul and slept only three hours during the night.                                         -332-  {17MR 331.2}
[17MR 332.1]          Basel, Nov. 22, 1885. I attended the morning meeting of the workers in the office, prayed with them and spoke to them about thirty minutes upon the necessity of faithfulness. I think many felt deeply upon this matter, for I know there have been influences that have drawn their minds from devotion and heart service to God, to having their affection and their interest divided, placing human objects where the Lord alone should rule and reign. A request was made for all who would from this time make most earnest efforts to reach a higher standard, to arise. All arose. We hope this now will have the effect to win them to God and to heavenly reflections and make earnest efforts to be all that God has given them power to be--faithful and true devoted soldiers of the cross of Christ. How my heart is drawn out for these young men.  {17MR 332.1}
[17MR 332.2]          I called together the girls from the office and talked with them seriously and affectionately, trying to have them see that they had enshrined Edith Andrews in their heart as an idol. The worship due to God they had given to a human, erring creature, one who was herself in need of mercy and the pardoning love of God or she would not be saved. May the Lord set the words that I have spoken to them home to the hearts.  {17MR 332.2}
[17MR 332.3]          Again one of the young men mentioned--whose name, I learn, is Zree--came to Brother Whitney much troubled. He knows not what to do. He sees the truth and he sees the cross which he must lift if he accepts it. He can bear, he says, all that he will be called to pass through for the truth's sake--but his parents, who have high hopes of him, and who have sent him at considerable expense to the college! Here comes in the question, Will he forsake all? He sees that the crisis has come. May the Lord give him grace to decide to obey the truth, to forsake all if need be--father, mother, sisters, and brothers--                                         -333-     for the truth's sake. This is a trying point in this young man's experience. May he have strength from above.  {17MR 332.3}
[17MR 333.1]          Basel, Nov. 23, 1885. Devote some time to writing. Have conversation with Elder Whitney. He read letters from Brethren Daniel and A. C. Bourdeau, urging our going to Italy, and Daniel urges we come around through Geneva. But this will cost time and money, and as our tickets take us on that route in returning, we decide to go direct to Italy, leaving Basel next Thursday morning, which will bring us to Torre Pellice about noon.  {17MR 333.1}
[17MR 333.2]          Walked down to the city and made some purchases. Rode down in the afternoon to look at the stoves. Purchased one at a cost of $20. This has advantages over the iron stoves. The head is not heated, the air is not burned. I must have every advantage if I must use my head so continually as I do in writing. Sent to America four pages to Marian Davis and six pages to W. C. White. Review and Herald comes today, and we eagerly devour its contents.  {17MR 333.2}
[17MR 333.3]          Basel, Nov. 24, 1885. I thank my heavenly Father for a precious night's rest. I am still suffering with cold. Write to Elder ［Daniel］ Bourdeau at Geneva four large sheets of writing paper, in regard to his work and the best manner of taking hold of it. He has gathered up notices in papers as far back as when he was in California, and wishes these put into his circulars or notices to go before the public. It is just such things as these that hurt Brother Daniel's influence. The appearance is that he is extolling himself. He wishes to make it very prominent that he is an American sent to Europe as a missionary. This is every word truth, but such notices put before the people are not the best way to reach them, for all notices of this character will arouse national prejudice and close doors to him that might otherwise be opened.                                         -334-  {17MR 333.3}
[17MR 334.1]          The greatest prejudice of the Jewish nation of priests and rulers was stirred up against Christ because the people preferred to listen to Jesus rather than to them. The very same feelings of prejudice will be manifest in the priests and rulers of this time. We can do nothing that would close up the way before us in this country like taking a position of superiority and putting before the people that we consider them heathen. In truth they are worse than heathen, but this we are not to tell them. The clergy consider themselves as teachers, highly religious, and their churches send out missionaries to the work of converting the savages, but to have the implication that a similar work must be done for them they would consider the worst kind of insult.  {17MR 334.1}
[17MR 334.2]          We wrote to Brother Daniel to guard his notices, just humbly to go to work in the fear and love of Jesus, and work temperately, keeping self out of sight, and let Jesus and the truth work their way to men's hearts; that it is not best to hire the largest halls but go to work in a less expensive way, and then if the way opens come up higher, but test the interest first and see what that interest will warrant.  {17MR 334.2}
[17MR 334.3]          Basel, Nov. 25, 1885. I have rested well during the night. We have been blessed with a couple of days of partial sunshine. It now looks like rain. We hoped to have pleasant weather to cross the Alps to Italy, but we must take these things as they come and not be in the least discontented or unhappy.  {17MR 334.3}
[17MR 334.4]          I had a talk with Brother and Sister Whitney. They bring good reports from the sisters with whom I conversed last Sunday in reference to their exalting anyone too highly and thus making them idols. We must inquire, What is the influence of the one I am adoring? Does she reveal in life and in character superior love to Jesus, devotion to the truth? Is it her work to lead minds to                                         -335-     the contemplation of heavenly themes? Is Jesus the theme of conversation? Is her life such that it bears the heavenly credentials? I urged upon them the necessity of their loving God with all their heart. This effort has been blessed to these sisters.  {17MR 334.4}
[17MR 335.1]          I had a conversation with Brother John Vuilleumier, and presented before him the necessity of having his heart free from every idol, that he should honor and adore Jesus, that no human object should come between him and his God. If he made clay his idol, if he thought it was a paragon of perfection, he was deceived. Where he saw gold it was truly only tinsel. I sought to impress upon him the necessity of his loving and serving God as the One supreme.  {17MR 335.1}
[17MR 335.2]          God was working in His providence to bring in close relationship to Him young men that He could mold and fashion as clay is molded in the hands of the potter, that He would make them vessels unto honor. He had a work for them to do which others who were older could not do as well. He wanted their whole heart, their affections, and He claimed them as His right. With those who were older, habits were formed and ideas were not always such that God could use them; but He wanted young men to reach the highest standard of holiness, as did Daniel. I devoted more than one hour in conversation with this young man, who is a youth of great promise. I believe that the Lord has a special work for him to do, and after talking with him we could only commit the case to God for Him to impress the heart.--Ms. 28, 1885.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Sept. 3, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 335.2}
[17MR 336.1]       MR No. 1295 - The Divine and Human Nature of Christ         (This manuscript is composed of extracts from three testimonies, two written in 1890 and one written in 1887. The 1890 testimonies are: No. 16, datelined "Lynn, Massachusetts," and No. 58, entitled, "God's Love for Man." The 1887 testimony is from Ms No. 11, dated "Basle, Switzerland, March 10, 1887.")  {17MR 336.1}
[17MR 336.2]          Christ knows the sinner's trials. He knows his temptations. He has taken upon Himself our nature. He was tempted in ［all］ points like as we are, and He knows how to succor those who shall be tempted. He has wept, and He knows your sorrows, He has witnessed all your griefs. To all who believe and trust in him He will be as a hiding place from the wind and a covert from the tempest.  {17MR 336.2}
[17MR 336.3]          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? In all points He was tempted as we are, and because He successfully resisted temptation under every form, He gave man the perfect example, and through the ample provision Christ has made, we may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption which is in the world through lust.  {17MR 336.3}
[17MR 336.4]          Jesus says, "To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne." Here is the beginning of our confidence which we must hold steadfast unto the end. If Jesus resisted Satan's temptations, He will help us to resist. He came to bring divine power to combine with human effort.                                            -337-  {17MR 336.4}
[17MR 337.1]         Jesus was free from all sin and error; there was not a trace of imperfection in His life or character. He maintained spotless purity under circumstances the most trying. True, He declared, "There is none good but one, that is, God"; but again He said, "I and My Father are one." Jesus speaks of Himself as well as the Father as God, and claims for Himself perfect righteousness.  {17MR 337.1}
[17MR 337.2]          In Christ dwelt the fullness of the Godhead bodily. This is why, although tempted in all points like as we are, He stood before the world, from His first entrance into it, untainted by corruption, though surrounded with it. Are we not also to become partakers of that fullness, and is it not this, and this only, that we can overcome as Christ overcame?  {17MR 337.2}
[17MR 337.3]          Why are we so dull of comprehension? Why do we not cling to Jesus, and draw from Him by faith the strength and perfection of His character as the vine-branch draws the sap from the living vine? We are to look to Jesus, and climb up step by step in the work of overcoming, as the temptations close us about. Abiding in Christ, we become one with Him. Then we are safe, entirely safe, against all the assaults of Satan. Christ living in the soul is revealed in the character. Man is nothing without Christ. But if Christ lives in us, we shall work the works of God. We shall represent Christ in our life. We shall talk of Christ because we meditate upon Him. We shall grow up into Christ to the full stature of men and women in spiritual understanding.  {17MR 337.3}
[17MR 337.4]          The love and justice of God, and also the immutability of His law, are made manifest by the Saviour's life no less than by His death. He assumed human nature, with its infirmities, its liabilities, its temptations. "Himself took our infirmities and bore our sicknesses" ［Matthew 8:17］. "In all things it                                            -338-     behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren" ［Hebrews 2:17］. He was "in all points tempted like as we are" ［Hebrews 2:14］. He exercised in His own behalf no power which man cannot exercise. As man he met temptation, and overcame in the strength given Him of God. He gives us an example of perfect obedience. He has provided that we may become partakers of the divine nature, and assures us that we may overcome as He overcame. His life testified that by the aid of the same divine power which Christ received, it is possible for man to obey God's law.  {17MR 337.4}
[17MR 338.1]          In Christ were united the divine and the human--the Creator and the creature. The nature of God, whose law had been transgressed, and the nature of Adam, the transgressor, meet in Jesus--the Son of God and the Son of man. And having with His own blood paid the price of redemption, having passed through man's experience, having in man's behalf met and conquered temptation, having, though Himself sinless, borne the shame and guilt and burden of sin, He becomes man's Advocate and Intercessor. What an assurance to the witnessing universe, that Christ will be "a merciful and faithful High Priest" ［Hebrews 2:17］.  {17MR 338.1}
[17MR 338.2]          The working out of the great plan of salvation, as manifest in the history of this world, is not only to men but to angels a revelation of the Father. Here is seen the work of Satan in the degradation and ruin of the race by sin, and, on the other hand, the work of God in man's recovery and uplifting through the grace of Christ. Every soul that develops a righteous character and withstands the power of the wicked one is a testimony to the falsehood of Satan's charges against the Divine government. Through the eternal ages the exaltation of the redeemed will be a testimony to God's love and mercy.  {17MR 338.2}
[17MR 338.3]          The apostle would call our attention from ourselves to the Author of our salvation. He presents before us His two natures, divine and human. Here is                                            -339-     the description of the divine: "Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God." He was "the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person." Here is the human: "He was made in the likeness of man"; "found in fashion as a man."  {17MR 338.3}
[17MR 339.1]          He was in all things like unto us. Though He was God, He did not appear as God. He veiled the manifestations of Deity, which had commanded the homage and called forth the admiration of the universe. He divested Himself of the form of God, and in its stead took the form of man. He laid aside His glory, and for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich.  {17MR 339.1}
[17MR 339.2]          As a member of the human family, Jesus was mortal; but as God, He was the Fountain of Life to the world. He could in His divine person have withstood the advances of death, and refused to come under its dominion. He might even in His human nature have withstood the inroads of disease, His divine nature imparting vitality and undecaying vigor to the human. But He voluntarily laid down His life that He might give life, and bring immortality to light. He must bear the sins of the world, and endure the penalty that rolled like a mountain upon His divine soul. The whole treasure of heaven was poured out in one gift to save fallen man. The Saviour brought into His human nature all the life-giving energies that human beings may need and will receive. Wondrous union of man and God!  {17MR 339.2}
[17MR 339.3]          The Son of God entered into the plan for man's salvation, knowing all the steps that He must descend in order to make expiation for the sins of the burdened, groaning world. What humility was this! It amazed the angels. Tongue can never describe it, the imagination cannot take it in--the eternal Word consented to be made flesh; God became man. But He stepped still lower;                                            -340-     the Man must humble Himself to bear insult, reproach, shameful accusations, and abuse.  {17MR 339.3}
[17MR 340.1]          It was not enough that Jesus should die in order to meet the demands of the broken law; it was needful for Him to die a shameful death. He says through the prophet, "I hid not My face from shame and spitting." He stood as the substitute for man, who was under sentence as a traitor, a rebel. Hence Christ died as a malefactor, in the place of the traitors, with all their treasured sins upon His divine soul. "He was numbered with the transgressors.  {17MR 340.1}
[17MR 340.2]          All this He deemed of small account in view of the results that He was working out, in behalf, not only of the inhabitants of this speck of a world, but of the whole universe--every world that God had created. All this humility of the Majesty of Heaven was for guilty, condemned man. He went lower and lower in His humiliation until there was no lower depth that He could reach, in order to lift man up from his moral degradation.--Ms. 141, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Sept. 3, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 340.2}
[17MR 341.1]       MR No. 1296 - The Evil of Gossiping About Fellow Church Members; The Importance of Pressing Together and Maintaining Unity         (Written June 2, 1852, from Rochester, New York, "To the Brethren and Sisters in Jackson.")            ［It has been］ a few nights since the Lord gave me a vision and showed me the state of things in the West. I saw it was dark, dark, dark, and that laborers were needed there.  {17MR 341.1}
[17MR 341.2]          I saw that Brother Bowles had gotten out of his place and thought he had a great work to do when he had not. I also saw that he thought his work was of a great deal more importance than it really was. I saw that some fanciful views, which were of no special importance, had been pressed by Brother Bowles until some who would have received the truth have been pushed off.  {17MR 341.2}
[17MR 341.3]         I was pointed back and saw ［that］ when the trouble arose in Jackson, much of it was caused by not following the Bible rule. There was too much talking over brother's or a sister's faults among the band or church, and the brother that was thought to be in the wrong ［was］ kept in ignorance that any trial was existing in the minds of others concerning him until his ［supposed］ faults had been talked over and over by nearly all the church. He felt the coldness of his brothers and sisters but knew not the cause until it broke out all of a sudden, and he ［was］ made aware of what had been going on. Then the confidence that he had previously had in his brethren was shaken, his love for them was weakened, and a breach was made at once in the band that was previously united.                                          -342-  {17MR 341.3}
[17MR 342.1]          All this trouble can be saved if each of you brethren and sisters is frank and open-hearted, and when you feel any brother errs, ［you will］ go to him and tell him your trials and fears; tell him in love, and perhaps he can make things that you have not understood plain, so that you will be relieved.  {17MR 342.1}
[17MR 342.2]          I saw ［that］ there had been too much noticing little things in Jackson that did not accord with your minds on such and such things, and if Satan can get your minds off the important work in the last days, upon little things that engender strife, his object is accomplished. All he wants is to weaken and overthrow you.  {17MR 342.2}
[17MR 342.3]          (I saw in the trial you had at Jackson ［that］ Brother Bowles saw many things in their true light, but he moved unadvisedly. He had no intention of moving wrong, but he did not look at things on every side and consider sufficiently what was the wisest course to take, but moved too much on the impulse of the moment; and then I saw all things in confusion. I saw that Brother Bowles had not that meek and childlike spirit that he ought to have. He is too much lifted up and exalted, and he must humble himself, or God will humble him.)  {17MR 342.3}
[17MR 342.4]          I saw that Brother Case had been doing what he could, but he had not loved judiciously at all times, and had given the enemies of the truth (and those who believed the truth) some cause to reproach him, and it was impossible for him to reach some. His testimony would do them no good. But I saw that God had worked for Brother Case because he had received the admonitions and advice of his brethren, and had acted upon it, and if he was humble, God would work for him still. Be he must be very careful how he speaks before unbelievers lest he give the enemies of the truth cause to reproach Israel.                                        -343-  {17MR 342.4}
[17MR 343.1]          Dear brethren and sisters, keep self humble, and in all things follow the Bible rule. Satan knows he cannot make us doubt the truth. The arguments of our enemies are powerless and effect nothing against the truth. Satan knows that his only way now is to try to separate very near friends and thereby weaken the children of God. United you'll stand. Divided you'll fall. Oh, press together; grieve not the angels of God who are watching over you. Let them not bear the tidings upward that you are disunited, each one pulling apart. Remember, now is the time that God is gathering His people into the unity of the faith. Will you not be co-workers with God, and press together?  {17MR 343.1}
[17MR 343.2]          I beg of you, to each one of you, humble yourselves before God. Let your brother's faults alone, Go to God and beg of Him not to show you your brother's heart but your own heart and your own wrongs; and when each one of you humbles yourself before God, let self die. There will be no trouble. You can but love one another and be united by strong cords of love and fellowship.  {17MR 343.2}
[17MR 343.3]          Finally, be at peace among yourselves, and may the God of peace sanctify you wholly, and preserve you blameless unto His appearing and kingdom. I would say I have written this to the church because it is public affairs.  {17MR 343.3}
[17MR 343.4]          Brother Bates is with us. He is coming to see you ［in the］ West. His duty is there for ［the］ present. I never saw him as free as now. God is with him. James sends much love to all the church. Accept the same from me. Please write as soon as possible.--Letter 2, 1852.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. Sept. 3, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 343.4}
[17MR 344.1]       MR No. 1297 - The Need to Review Sacred History; the Importance of the Sabbath; The Nearness of the End         (Written June 1, 1903, from Sanitarium, California, to G. I. Butler.)          I received your letter, and read it with deep interest. I should have answered before, but I have been very busy.  {17MR 344.1}
[17MR 344.2]          Recently I have been doing much writing, for I know not how long the Lord may spare my life. As I write you this letter, my heart is filled with gratitude to God for all His goodness to the children of men.  {17MR 344.2}
[17MR 344.3]         I feel deeply over our present situation. We must now do a work that should have been done long ago. We must do as the Lord directed Moses to do when the children of Israel, having crossed the desert, were encamped on the borders of Jordan. Moses was bidden to rehearse to them all the dealings of the Lord to them during their journeyings through the wilderness. The record of this rehearsal is found in the book of Deuteronomy.  {17MR 344.3}
[17MR 344.4]          The record of the experience through which the people of God passed in the early history of our work must be republished. Many of those who have since come into the truth are ignorant of the way in which the Lord wrought. The experience of William Miller and his associates, of Captain Joseph Bates, and of other pioneers in the Advent message, should be kept before our people. Elder Loughborough's book should receive attention. Our leading men should see what can be done for the circulation of this book.                                         -345-  {17MR 344.4}
[17MR 345.1]          We must study to find out the best way in which to take up the review of our experiences from the beginning of our work, when we separated from the churches and went forward step by step in the light that God gave us. We then took the position that the Bible, and the Bible only, was to be our guide; and we are never to depart from this position. We were given wonderful manifestations of the power of God. Miracles were wrought.  {17MR 345.1}
[17MR 345.2]          Again and again, when we were brought into strait places, the power of God was displayed in our behalf. At such times souls were convicted, and amidst the scorn and derision of the opposing churches they bore testimony in favor of the truth. "So mightily grew the word of God, and prevailed." Under the preaching of the truth, men were converted and were "instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the Spirit, . . . ［they］ spake and taught diligently the ［great］ things of the Lord."  {17MR 345.2}
[17MR 345.3]          I was then very young, but I believed the message, and the Spirit of the Lord was upon me. I was guided by the Spirit to act an important part in the work of the Lord for this time.  {17MR 345.3}
[17MR 345.4]          I have lost none of my faith in the message. After the passing of the time in 1844 we were a disappointed people, few in numbers. We sought the Lord most earnestly, and read and re-read His commandments. We saw wherein we had been working and walking contrary to them, and then we thanked the Lord for our disappointment.  {17MR 345.4}
[17MR 345.5]          The fourteenth chapter of Revelation was most diligently studied, and we discerned the meaning of the words, "Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Light was                                          -346-     given us on the claims of the law of God. We were convicted that the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord, and we began to observe it as holy unto Him.  {17MR 345.5}
[17MR 346.1]          The light given in the Word of God regarding the Sabbath is too plain to be misunderstood. God declares: ［Exodus 20:8-11, quoted］.  {17MR 346.1}
[17MR 346.2]          And again He says: "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. . . . The children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever" ［Exodus 31:13, 16, 17］.  {17MR 346.2}
[17MR 346.3]          The world has accepted a false rest day, and has dishonored the Creator of heaven and earth. The false is reverenced in the place of the true. God's Sabbath is trampled under the feet of men. What excuse can those who do this give for placing the first day of the week where the seventh should be, and for making laws compelling its observance? God's condemnation will rest upon all who have thus disregarded His commands.  {17MR 346.3}
[17MR 346.4]          Seventh-day Adventists need to search the Scriptures, that they may know the reasons of their faith. Christ says, "Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me." We are living in the close of this earth's history. Let no one say in his heart, "My Lord delayeth His coming." Prophecy is fulfilling. Soon Christ will come with power and great glory. We have no time to lose. Let the message sound forth in earnest words of warning.                                          -347-  {17MR 346.4}
[17MR 347.1]          We must persuade men everywhere to repent and flee from the wrath to come. They have souls to save or to lose. Let there be no indifference in this matter. The Lord calls for workers who are filled with an earnest, decided purpose. Tell the people to be instant in season and out of season. With the words of life upon your lips, go forth to tell men and women that the end of all things is at hand.  {17MR 347.1}
[17MR 347.2]          Let us keep our souls in the love of God. The note of warning must be given. The truth must not languish upon our lips. We must rouse people to immediate preparation; for we little know what is before us. My faith is as strong as ever that we are living in the last remnant of time. Let every teacher present an open door before all who will come to Jesus, repenting of their sins. We are not only to watch; we are to pray and work and wait.        ［2 Peter 3:10-14, quoted.］--Letter 105, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Sept. 3, 1987. Entire Letter.  {17MR 347.2}
[17MR 348.1]       MR No. 1299 - Locating Sanitariums Away from the Cities; Health-Care Workers to be Deeply Spiritual                 (Written March 14, 1902, at "Elmshaven, California.)          In the visions of the night I have been writing letters, and I dare not put off longer the work to be done. Night after night I am awakened at eleven, twelve, and one o'clock with a message from the Lord, and I arise at once and begin to write, fearing that if I do not, I shall forget the instruction given me.  {17MR 348.1}
[17MR 348.2]          Thus it was when I was at Los Angeles. In the night season I was in a council meeting, and the question under consideration was the establishment of a sanitarium in Southern California. One brother urged that it would be best to have the sanitarium in the city of Los Angeles, and he pointed out the objections to establishing the sanitarium out of the city.  {17MR 348.2}
[17MR 348.3]         There was among us One who presented this matter very clearly and with the utmost simplicity. He told us that it would be a mistake to establish a sanitarium within the city limits. A sanitarium should have the advantage of plenty of land, so that the invalids can work in the open air. For nervous, gloomy, feeble patients, out-of-door work is invaluable. Let them have flowerbeds to care for. In the use of rake and hoe and spade, they will find relief for many of their maladies. Idleness is the cause of many diseases.  {17MR 348.3}
[17MR 348.4]          It need not be thought that there will be any disadvantage in establishing a sanitarium outside of the city. The establishment of a sanitarium ten, twenty, or even thirty miles from a city can not fail to be an advantage in                                          -349-     every way, not a drawback. The patients can visit the city when they wish, but they are not obliged to remain in its smoke and dust and noise.  {17MR 348.4}
[17MR 349.1]          When a sanitarium is established in the country, the sick can breathe the pure air of heaven. As they walk among the flowers and trees, joy and gladness fill their hearts. It is as if the smile of God were upon them, as they look upon the beautiful things He has created to bring joy to their sad hearts.  {17MR 349.1}
[17MR 349.2]          Life in the open air is good for body and mind. It is God's medicine for the restoration of health. Pure air, good water, sunshine, beautiful surroundings--these are His means for restoring the sick to health in natural ways.  {17MR 349.2}
[17MR 349.3]          The fact that in the country all these advantages can be obtained is a powerful incentive to the establishment of a sanitarium in the country. There the institution can be surrounded by flowers and trees, orchards and vineyard. The effect of such surroundings is, as it were, an elixir of life.  {17MR 349.3}
[17MR 349.4]          It is worth more than silver or gold to sick people to lie in the sunshine or in the shade of the trees. And whenever opportunity offers, let those in charge of them draw lessons, teaching the love of God from the things of nature, from the lofty trees, the springing grass, and the beautiful flowers. Every opening bud and blossoming flower is an expression of God's love for His children. Point them upward to Him whose hand has made the beautiful things of nature.  {17MR 349.4}
[17MR 349.5]          Christ points us to the things of nature, saying, "Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not; neither do they spin; and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." From the trees, the running brooks, the stones, there are lessons to be learned.                                          -350-  {17MR 349.5}
[17MR 350.1]          Whenever it is possible parents should have a piece of land connected with the home, that the children may learn to cultivate the soil. How many beautiful and valuable lessons may be drawn from preparing the ground, sowing the seed, and tending the growing plants. In learning these lessons, parents and children are benefited and blessed.  {17MR 350.1}
[17MR 350.2]          The plagues of the last days are to be poured out on the inhabitants of the world who have shown marked contempt for the law of God. God's people should seek to reach the people of the world, proclaiming the truth as it is found in His Word. But the time will come when they will have to move away from the cities, and live in small companies, by themselves.  {17MR 350.2}
[17MR 350.3]          If our people regard God's instruction as of value, they will move away from the city, so that they will not be pained by its revolting sights, and that their children will not be corrupted by its vices. Those who choose to remain in the cities, surrounded by the houses of unbelievers, must share the disaster that will come upon them.  {17MR 350.3}
[17MR 350.4]          When the Lord was about to smite Egypt with hail, He said to Moses, "Behold, tomorrow about this time I will cause it to rain a very grievous hail, such as hath not been seen in Egypt since the foundation thereof until now. Send therefore now, and gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field; for upon every man and beast that shall be found in the field, and shall not be brought home, the hail shall come down upon them, and they shall die" ［Exodus 9:18, 19］.  {17MR 350.4}
[17MR 350.5]          And before the destroying angel was sent to slay the firstborn of Egypt, Moses was told to say to the children of Israel, "Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the passover. And ye shall take a bunch of                                            -351-     hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the bason, and strike the lintel and the two sides posts with the blood that is in the bason; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until morning.  {17MR 350.5}
[17MR 351.1]          "For the Lord will pass through the land to smite the Egyptians; and when He seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two sideposts, the Lord will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you" ［verses 21-33］. The blood on the door was to be the sign that the Israelites were God's people. He who failed to obey would suffer with the Egyptians. The Lord could not spare him.  {17MR 351.1}
[17MR 351.2]         Candid consideration is to be given to the matter of establishing a sanitarium in southern California. One thing is certain: This sanitarium is not to be established in the city. This I have said repeatedly. Establish it where there is ground for cultivation, where the patients can have opportunity for healthful exercise. Outdoor exercise, combined with hygienic treatment, will work miracles in restoring health to the sick. It is not according to the Lord's will to establish our sanitariums in the city. It may sometimes be necessary to begin the work in the city, but in such cases it should be carried on in rented buildings until a suitable location can be found outside the city.  {17MR 351.2}
[17MR 351.3]          In Eden each day's labor brought to Adam and Eve health and gladness, and the happy pair greeted with joy the visits of their Creator, as in the cool of the day He walked and talked with them. Daily God taught them His lessons.  {17MR 351.3}
[17MR 351.4]          The fruit of the tree of life in the garden of Eden possessed supernatural virtue. To eat of it was to live forever. Its fruit was the antidote for death. Its leaves were for the sustaining of life and immortality. But through man's disobedience death entered the world. Adam ate of the tree of the                                           -352-     knowledge of good and evil, the fruit of which he had been forbidden to touch. This was his test. He failed, and his transgression opened the floodgates of woe upon the world.  {17MR 351.4}
[17MR 352.1]          The tree of life was a type of the one great Source of immortality. Of Christ it is written, "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men." He is the fountain of life. Obedience to Him is the life-giving, vivifying power that gladdens the soul. Through sin man shut himself off from access to the tree of life. Now, life and immortality are brought to light through Jesus Christ.  {17MR 352.1}
[17MR 352.2]          Christ declares, "I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst." "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....As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me. . . .The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." "To him that overcometh will I grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God."  {17MR 352.2}
[17MR 352.3]          Why deprive the patients of the health-restoring blessing to be found in out-of-door life? I have been instructed that as the sick are encouraged to leave their rooms and spend time in the open air, tending the flowers or doing some other light, pleasant work, their minds will be called from self to something more health-giving. Open-air exercise should be prescribed as a beneficial, life-giving necessity.  {17MR 352.3}
[17MR 352.4]          The longer patients can be kept out of doors, the less care they will require. The more cheerful their surroundings, the more hopeful they will be.                                              -353-     Surround them with the beautiful things of nature, place them where they can see the flowers growing and hear the birds singing, and their hearts will break into song in harmony with the songs of the birds. Shut them in rooms and, be these rooms ever so elegantly furnished, they will grow fretful and gloomy. Give them the blessing of out-door life; for thus their souls will be uplifted, unconsciously and, in a large sense, consciously. Relief will come to body and mind.  {17MR 352.4}
[17MR 353.1]          This return to God's original design is infinitely better than drug medication. All this was opened before me last night. I was awake from nine o'clock. Finding that I could not sleep, I dressed and asked the Lord to help me write out the instruction He had given me.  {17MR 353.1}
[17MR 353.2]          I was referred to Ezekiel's vision of the mighty river. "These waters issued out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea; which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass that every thing that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live:. . . And the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed; it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary; and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine" ［Ezekiel 48:8, 9, 12］. Let all physicians be wise to learn.  {17MR 353.2}
[17MR 353.3]         Grave mistakes have been made in establishing sanitariums in the city. I was instructed that our sanitariums should be established in the most pleasant surroundings, in places outside the city, where by wise instruction the thoughts                                            -354-     of the patients can be bound up with the mind of God. Again and again I have described such places. But it seems that there has been no ear to hear.  {17MR 353.3}
[17MR 354.1]          Last night in a most clear and convincing manner the mistakes now being made in our sanitarium work were presented to me. Again and again I have been shown the advantage of establishing our institutions, especially sanitariums and schools, outside the city. To place our sanitariums where they are surrounded by ungodliness is to counterwork the efforts made to restore the patients to health. Many times in the past this has been presented to me.  {17MR 354.1}
[17MR 354.2]          Our Redeemer is constantly working to restore in man the moral image of God. And although the whole creation groans under the curse, and fruit and flowers are nothing in comparison with what they will be in the earth made new, yet even today the sick may find health and gladness and joy in field and orchard. What a restorative this is! What a preventive of sickness! The leaves of the tree of life are for the healing of the believing, repenting children of God who avail themselves of the blessing to be found in tree and shrub and flower, even marred as nature is by the curse.  {17MR 354.2}
[17MR 354.3]          Great care should be exercised in regard to the food given to the patients in our sanitariums. Condiments, spices, flesh-meat, destroy the desire for pure, wholesome food, and create an appetite for liquor. By the use of tobacco and strong drink, men are not only destroying themselves, they are robbing God, and they are leading their fellow men to follow their life-destroying practices. They are committing gradual but sure suicide, for the life-forces cannot always bear the strain of such violation of nature's laws. Sinew and muscle and nerve lose their power. The reasoning faculties grow weaker and weaker.                                          -355-  {17MR 354.3}
[17MR 355.1]          The drunkard destroys himself, soul and body, and brings unhappiness and degradation to his family. His perceptions are deadened by self-indulgence, and he cares not that his children are loathsome in the sight of heavenly angels and in the sight of human beings. He cares not that they are unfed, ragged, and ignorant. With a lavish hand the Lord has bestowed His blessings upon human beings. But drunkenness is depriving thousands and thousands of that which the Lord desires them to enjoy.  {17MR 355.1}
[17MR 355.2]          How much suffering would be saved if the highly seasoned food and a great variety of food were changed for a simple diet of grains and nuts and fruits. Such a change could not fail to restore health to those who have made themselves sick by overeating.  {17MR 355.2}
[17MR 355.3]          By returning to the food provided for man by God in the beginning--the fruits and grains produced by the earth--man's mind is made clear, and he is filled with an earnest desire for a knowledge of the Word of God. By eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God, by receiving and believing His words, he grows to the full stature of a man in Christ Jesus.  {17MR 355.3}
[17MR 355.4]          I could say much more on the subject of the location of our sanitariums. We have not yet learned all that is to be learned in regard to the establishment of sanitariums. God calls for a reformation. We are to locate our sanitariums in places more favorable to sanitarium work. So far as possible, medical institutions should be established in quiet, secluded places, where opportunity will be afforded for instructing the patients concerning the love of God and the Eden home of our first parents, which through the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ is to be restored to man. It is the expressed will of God that our sanitariums shall be established as far from cities as is consistent.                                          -356-  {17MR 355.4}
[17MR 356.1]          We should make decided efforts to heed the directions the Lord has given in regard to the care of the sick. They should be given every advantage possible. All the restorative agencies that the Lord has provided should be made use of in our sanitarium work.  {17MR 356.1}
[17MR 356.2]          If we are to go to the expense of building sanitariums in order that we may work for the salvation of the sick and the afflicted, we should locate these institutions where those we desire to help will be favorably situated. They pay their money for the healing of their bodily diseases; but I am instructed that while we are to do all in our power to heal the body, we should make the healing of the soul of far greater importance. Those who come to our sanitariums as patients are in these institutions to be shown the way of salvation, that they may repent and hear the words, "Thy sins are forgiven thee; go in peace, and sin no more."  {17MR 356.2}
[17MR 356.3]          Those in charge of our sanitariums do not show wisdom when they take upon themselves so many responsibilities and engage in so many business enterprises that they neglect to educate and train the helpers in their religious lines. There is danger of the workers carrying about them an impure spiritual atmosphere. In word and in deed they often reveal that their characters are unsanctified, unholy, impure.  {17MR 356.3}
[17MR 356.4]          In the country, the education of patients and nurses can be carried on with far less labor than in the city. The atmosphere surrounding the soul will be more healthful. Through His workers, the Life-giver will present to the sick the leaves from the tree of life. The Lord has not abandoned the guilty, disobedient race. He is long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.                                          -357-     His invitation of mercy is still sounding. The sick and suffering may come to Him and find life.  {17MR 356.4}
[17MR 357.1]          The Lord has presented to me the great advantage to be gained in building our sanitariums outside the cities, in the most favorable locations. The time is not far distant when every city will be visited by the plagues of God. Those who suppose that the patronage to be gained in the congested cities would be of great advantage, do not reason wisely. In this respect their reasoning is not inspired of God. Men should have less confidence in their finite wisdom.  {17MR 357.1}
[17MR 357.2]          The time has come when those who will be most benefited by our institutions understand by experience that a city is not the best place in which to establish a sanitarium. Then again, the outlay for buildings is to be far less than men in their own judgment would decide. Offers of buildings at a low price will be received from men of the world who are favorable to medical missionary work. All these things should be taken into consideration. Take advantage of favorable offers. Often there are offered at a low price country places on which are buildings that could be utilized for sanitarium work. If the grounds are extensive, and if the surroundings are beautified by ornamental and fruit trees, we should secure such places for sanitarium work.  {17MR 357.2}
[17MR 357.3]          In attempting to advance the interests of the sanitarium in Los Angeles, Dr. Moran has recently made unwise movements. He has moved in accordance with his own judgment and the judgment of his immediate friends. But this hasty movement on his part is to be carefully considered, lest others should follow his example.  {17MR 357.3}
[17MR 357.4]          Christ's instruction is to be strictly followed: "Whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after Me, cannot be My disciple. For which of you,                                          -358-     intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand. Or else, while the other is a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace" ［Luke 14:27-32］.  {17MR 357.4}
[17MR 358.1]          Dr. Moran has in view the building of a sanitarium, but he has not taken into consideration where the funds will come from to carry on his building enterprise. It is easy to work on suppositions, but it is not best to do so. It is not wise to launch out so suddenly. The bud must develop gradually into the full-blown flower.  {17MR 358.1}
[17MR 358.2]          In the first place, let all connected with the establishment of this sanitarium make a most thorough study of the object for which it is to be established. Is it to be in every sense a memorial for the Lord? Is it to be a means of awakening conviction in regard to the nature of sin? Is it to be a means of saving souls from death--souls who through conversion will show a reformation in the life-practice, thus answering the question, "What shall I do to be saved?"  {17MR 358.2}
[17MR 358.3]         Our first work is to be converted. We are individually to be born again. We are to be able to represent in character the new life in Christ. The knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He sent is of primary importance, for Christ declares that it is eternal life to the believer. Those in positions of responsibility in our sanitariums should make sure that their lamps are trimmed                                           -359-     and burning. Men and women who are engaged in any line of God's work are to heed Christ words, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." In building up a sanitarium this is the first work to be done. The foundation is to be laid in Jesus Christ.  {17MR 358.3}
[17MR 359.1]          Let all the men in responsibility in our medical institutions search themselves honestly, thoroughly. Let each one inquire, "What is my relation to God? Do I love Him with my whole heart and soul and mind and strength? Can I give substantial evidence that I have entered the fold of Christ?" Let every one dig deep, laying a sure foundation upon the solid Rock. It is not enough to feel now and then a sense of self-satisfaction. Have you the faith that works by love and purifies the soul from every defilement? Can you in word, in practice, in disposition, bear the Bible test of character? Is your influence fragrant? Do you in your association with others in the daily life show that you have been regenerated?  {17MR 359.1}
[17MR 359.2]          In His interview with Nicodemus, an influential member of the Sanhedrin, Christ struck down deep to foundation principles. He said, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." The new birth is the beginning of a new life, a new shining forth of light because of a change in the character. The old life of selfishness has died, and the Christ-life is revealed. This is the first preparation essential for men and women who desire to be laborers together with God in medical missionary work.  {17MR 359.2}
[17MR 359.3]          God has assured us that it is possible to serve Him in holiness: "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for He hath visited and redeemed His people, . . . to perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant; the oath which He sware to our father Abraham that He would grant unto us, that                                       -360-     we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him, all the days of our life" ［Luke 1:68-75］.  {17MR 359.3}
[17MR 360.1]          In Genesis the record is: "The angel of the Lord called unto Abraham out of heaven the second time, and said, By Myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son; that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of heaven, and as the sand which is upon the seashore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed My voice" ［Genesis 22:15-18］.  {17MR 360.1}
[17MR 360.2]          God fulfills His promise in such a way as to bring the highest glory to Himself and the greatest good to His people. In order to be righteous in His sight, we must not only believe in Christ, but we must depend upon Him for the realization of our highest hopes of success and of salvation, observing all His commandments and ordinances, and discharging with fidelity all the duties that devolve upon us as stewards of His grace. We shall be judged by the fruits that we bear. We do not strike deep enough, taking root in the best soil, the Word of the living God, that we may grow in strength and bear the fruits of the Spirit. In spirit, in word, and in action it is our privilege to be rich in good works.  {17MR 360.2}
[17MR 360.3]          We are to remember the exhortation, "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." By creation and by redemption we are the Lord's property. God gave His Son as a sacrifice to save the human family, that they might live--not the life of Satan, but the life of Christ; for in Christ the divine nature was united                                           -361-     with human nature. The Word who "was in the beginning with God," "was made flesh and dwelt among us." Christ was God manifest in the flesh. "Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness; God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."  {17MR 360.3}
[17MR 361.1]          The Lord requires those who stand under His blood-stained banner to be faithful representatives of Him in character. He requires that those who undertake to fill any office in our sanitariums shall be of the number that are designated as His peculiar people. Concerning His children He says: "Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God; which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having your conversation honest among the Gentiles; that whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation" ［1 Peter 2:9-12］.  {17MR 361.1}
[17MR 361.2]          Let those who contemplate the establishment of a sanitarium be subject to the molding and fashioning of the Spirit of God. Such men will not misrepresent Christ in character building. Let all who are in positions of trust use the holy oil of grace in spirit, in word, and in action. Let them do thorough work in purifying the soul temple, that they may have an understanding of the work that they contemplate undertaking, and that they may be able to sow seeds of truth in many hearts. In one hand they are to carry the gospel for the relief of sin-burdened souls, and in the other hand they are to carry remedies for the                                        -362-     relief of physical suffering. Thus they will be true medical missionaries for God.--Ms 41, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Oct. 1, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {17MR 361.2}
[18MR 0.1]         18MR - Manuscript Releases Volume Eighteen ［Nos. 1301-1359］ (1990)      A WORD OF EXPLANATION         WHEN ELLEN WHITE DIED IN 1915, SHE LEFT HER MANUSCRIPTS AND LETTERS IN THE CUSTODY OF A SMALL GROUP OF MINISTERS AND ADMINISTRATORS IN THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH WHOM SHE HAD APPOINTED TO SERVE AS TRUSTEES OF HER ESTATE. AS THE YEARS PASSED, THESE TRUSTEES AND THEIR SUCCESSORS BECAME INCREASINGLY AWARE OF THE POTENTIAL USEFULNESS TO THE CHURCH OF THIS GOLD MINE OF UNPUBLISHED MATERIALS. PROCEDURES WERE DEVELOPED WHEREBY CHURCH ENTITIES, OR EVEN INDIVIDUALS, COULD REQUEST THE "RELEASE" OF SPECIFIED EXCERPTS FROM ELLEN WHITE'S WRITINGS FOR USE IN BOOKS, ARTICLES, CLASS LECTURES, OR SERMONS. FOR DETAILS OF THE RELEASE PROCESS THE READER IS REFERRED TO THE PREFACE TO MANUSCRIPT RELEASES, VOL. 1.       AS IN THE EARLIER VOLUMES, MATERIALS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ELSEWHERE IN PUBLISHED FORM HAVE NOT BEEN INCLUDED IN THE PRESENT VOLUME. IN A FEW CASES MATERIALS UNDER CONSIDERATION AND ASSIGNED A RELEASE NUMBER WERE NOT  PROCESSED. AND THE NUMBER WAS NOT REASSIGNED. UNTIL 1983, ONLY THE EXCERPTS REQUESTED FOR PUBLIC USE WERE "RELEASED." STARTING WITH MANUSCRIPT RELEASE NO. 970, THE WHITE ESTATE BEGAN "RELEASING" ENTIRE LETTERS OR MANUSCRIPTS, SO FAR AS POSSIBLE, EVEN IF ONLY PARTICULAR PARAGRAPHS WERE REQUESTED.       COPY FOR THIS VOLUME HAS BEEN SENT TO THE PUBLISHER CAMERA-READY, WHICH MEANS THAT ANY TYPOGRAPHICAL MISTAKES OR OTHER INACCURACIES WHICH MAY APPEAR ARE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WHITE ESTATE, NOT THE PUBLISHER.       WE TAKE PLEASURE IN MAKING THESE MATERIALS AVAILABLE IN THIS FORM, AND TRUST THAT THE COUNSELS, WARNINGS, AND PRINCIPLES PUT FORTH BY THE AUTHOR WILL BRING A BLESSING TO EVERY READER.                                    THE TRUSTEES OF THE ELLEN G. WHITE ESTATE                                    WASHINGTON, D.C.  {18MR 0.1}
[18MR 0.2]       Table of Contents    A Word of Explanation    Manuscript Release                                                  Page         1301    The Two Great Principles of the Law ................... 1         1302    A Vision Given in  Oswego, New York ................... 10         1303    Heaven and Earth Are Closely Linked; Lessons From               Daniel's Prayer Experience in Daniel 9 and 10 ......... 14         1304    Daniel and Revelation Have Been Unsealed, and Should Be               Studied; Improved Experience Will Result .............. 22         1305    The Message in Revelation ............................. 26         1306    Workers Not to Disparage One Another; To Set a right               Example; Health Reform Important; Counsel on Public               Speaking .............................................. 42         1307    Talk Light, Not Darkness; Separate From Evildoers, and               Do Not Do Not Strengthen Them ......................... 54         1308    Christ is Coming Soon; Proclaim the Three Angels'               Messages; Do Not Sow Seeds of Discord ................. 57         1309    All Kinds of Workers Needed; Leaders To Be Understanding               and Charitable Toward Fellow Workers; Women Workers               To Be Paid ............................................ 65         1310    Christ and the Law .................................... 70         1311    An Appeal To Be Converted Fully to Christ, Enjoy His               Love, and Be a Help to Others ......................... 79         1312    Miscellaneous Writings on Christ's Ministry, Health               Reform, and the Christian Life ........................ 83         1313    Thoughts About the Pre-Flood World, Christ's Love for               Man, Fruit-Bearing Peace, and Surrender to God's Will . 92         1314    Christ Our Example in Every Line of Work; Counsel on               Medical Missionary Work ............................... 101         1315    The Saviour's Characteristics ......................... 112         1316    Words to Parents ...................................... 118         1317    The Home Life ......................................... 121         1318    Blessed Peace, But Not Healing, Received Through               Season of Prayer ...................................... 124         1319    To God Be the Glory; Forsake All Idols ................ 127         1320    E. G. White Material Cited in "Ellen G. White and               Picture Illustrations of 'Heavenly Things,'" by Merlin               Burt. On File at the White Estate.         1321    God's Unchangeable Law ................................ 133         1322    Fragments ............................................. 137         1323    Brief Writings on Short Scriptural Passages and               Practical Christian Living ............................ 146         1324    Speaking Appointments at Camby, Michigan; Transaction               Involving Property .................................... 153         1325    Perplexity Over Proposed Trip to Australia ............ 155         1326    Testimony to Battle Creek Church ...................... 156         1327    The Formation of Character ............................ 162         1328    Words of Counsel ...................................... 168         1329    Miscellaneous Diary Entries ........................... 174         1330    The Need of Earnest Effort; Work the Cities; Heed               the Message to Laodicea ............................... 185         1331    The Sin of Evilspeaking; A Call to Sanctified Living .. 197         1332    God's Church the Light of the World ................... 208         1333    Diary Fragment--February to May, 1902; The Spirit of               Thanksgiving; Importance of Unity ..................... 211         1334    Diary Selections--November, 1902; Evils in the               Publishing House; Christians to Reflect Christ; Not to               Speculate About God ................................... 217         1335    God to Control His Heritage ........................... 223         1336    Workers To Be Educated in the School of Christ ........ 227         1337    To Our Churches in Oakland and Berkeley: An Appeal to               Repent, Be Converted, and Reform ...................... 232         1338    Reform Needed at St. Helena Health Retreat; Identify               With Fellow Christians, Not With Worldlings; An Appeal               to Dr. Burke .......................................... 237         1339    All Gifts of the Spirit To Be Utilized; Christians Not               To Be Controlled by Feelings; Look to Jesus as Example.     248         1340    Living the Christ-Life Amid Corrupt Surroundings ...... 254         1341    The Dangers of Mind-Cure; Neither Husband Nor Wife to               Control the Mind of the Other; An Appeal for Conversion     263         1342    Comments on EGW Staff, Also on O. A. Olsen; Counsel               to Study Daniel and Revelation ........................ 274         1343    Christians To Be Sanctified, and Serve as Lights in               a Dark World .......................................... 276         1344    Work Earnestly for the Unsaved ........................ 281         1345    A Dream About W. C. White and J. H. Kellogg ........... 286         1346    Counsel to Physicians and Medical Students ............ 288         1347    Guidelines for Choosing a Life Companion; How to Have               a Happy Marriage ...................................... 303         1348    Mistakes Made at Health Institution; No One is Without               Failings; Christians Are to Help One Another .......... 321         1349    A Perfect Saviour; God's Love for Us; A New               Commandment; Working with the W.C.T.U.; The               Opportunities of Youth; Developing True Christian               Character; Rejection of Inspired Counsel; Resisting               Temptation; Justice and Grace ......................... 331         1350    God Will Solve Crises  When Men Do His Will; Church in a               Backslidden Condition; Beldens on Norfolk Island ...... 347         1351    Counsel Not to Return to Husband, but to Work in a               Sanitarium ............................................ 350         1352    No Safety in Eating Meat; Diseases Prevalent; Drawing               Nigh to God ........................................... 352         1353    The Great Controversy; Satan's Rebellion in Heaven;               Our Need for God's Spirit ............................. 358         1354    Counsel Against Foolish Talking and Jesting;               Christ Our Example .................................... 368         1355    Previously Unreleased Materials Cited by Dr. Fred               Veltman in The Desire of Ages Study. On File at               the White Estate.         1356    Does Sister White Work Miracles? ...................... 372         1357    Previously Unreleased Materials Cited by Bert Haloviak               in His Paper "Longing for the Pastorate: Ministry in               19th Century Adventism." On File at the White Estate.         1358    Speaking and Visiting the Stick in Boulder, Colorado,               En route to Battle Creek .............................. 374         1359    Christ Provided a Perfect Pattern for True Ministry ... 380  {18MR 0.2}
[18MR 1.1]     MR No. 1301 - The Two Great Principles of the Law           (Written September 16, 1898, at "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW.)          The principle of God's Word most disregarded is that which enjoins upon us the necessity of loving God supremely, and the result is that men find it impossible to obey the second great principle of the law, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." Just in accordance with the seed sown will be the harvest reaped. The test is now upon us. Which shall it be--transgression or loyalty, obedience or disobedience, to these commandments?  {18MR 1.1}
[18MR 1.2]          The Word of God is our standard of character. It is a "form of sound words" from the great Source of light and life. There is nothing that we need to preserve so sacredly as this standard of doctrine, a "Thus saith the Lord." This is the pure fountain from which we are to draw the reasons for our faith. The Bible is our guide and textbook. The law of God is our covenant with our Maker, in life, in death, in the resurrection, and through all eternity. Our loyalty to God in obeying, in spirit and letter, the ten commandments, reveals to the world, to angels, and to men, our covenant relation with Him. Adam and Eve were to glorify God by personal and perpetual obedience to His law, and it is in this way that we are to give God glory for all His entrusted gifts. We are to love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves.  {18MR 1.2}
[18MR 1.3]          "And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted Him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and                                           -2-     with all thy mind, and thy neighbor as thyself. And He said unto him, Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live" ［Luke 10:25-28］.  {18MR 1.3}
[18MR 2.1]          Here are the two great principles--love to God and love to our neighbor. Upon these two principles hang all the law and the prophets. Those who fail in their fulfillment of these vital principles, though they profess a knowledge of the truth, though they preach the Word and understand all mysteries, "shall eat of the fruit of their own doings, and be filled with their own devices." Those who cherish suspicion and imagine evil, reveal that they are not carrying out the principles of this law; and they pursue a course which brings upon themselves the evils which they imagine. God will not be trifled with. His word is to be cherished and obeyed.  {18MR 2.1}
[18MR 2.2]          The educational advantages of our school are to be of a distinct order. This school farm is God's lesson book. Those who till the soil and plant and cultivate the orchard are to make the application of nature's lessons, and bring these lessons learned into their actual spiritual experience. Let every individual bear in mind that "whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." The man who day by day sows objectionable seeds, in words, in deportment, in spirit, is conforming himself to the same character, and this is determining the future harvest he will reap. Then let ministers and their wives, let the teachers of the youth in any line, close the door to jealousy and evil surmising of those whom God uses to do His work.  {18MR 2.2}
[18MR 2.3]          God has given to every man an individual responsibility. "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling," He says. Man is not to work out any other man's salvation. He is not to become the transcript of any man's mind.                                          -3-     He is required to act in his capacity according to the ability God has given him. No man, whatever his experience, whatever his position, is to feel that he accomplishes a wonderful work when he fashions and shapes the mind of any human being after his own mind, and teaches him to voice the sentiments he may express. This has been done again and again to the detriment of human beings.  {18MR 2.3}
[18MR 3.1]          The minds of God's workers must be turned toward the Sun of Righteousness. The impress of the mind of God is not upon the man who will refuse to impart instruction unless he first learns the mind of some minister or someone in whom he has confidence. In this he is leaning upon man and making flesh his arm. Let every intelligent human being lean upon his God. Let him breathe out his soul to God. Let him not consent to wear Saul's armor, but with his own God-given ability, work in the armor that God has provided for him.  {18MR 3.1}
[18MR 3.2]          The man who seeks to pattern after any man's character will make an utter failure. Each person is to look to God for himself, to trade with conscientious fidelity upon the talents God has given him. "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure" ［Philippians 2:12, 13］. It is in you, brother, in you; not in another for you. You  are to have an individual experience. Then you will have rejoicing in yourself, and not in another.  {18MR 3.2}
[18MR 3.3]          No man can grow up to the full stature of a man for another. Each must reach his own individual measurement for himself. Each is to grow up under God's supervision. "Which of you by taking thought," says Christ, "can add one cubit unto his stature?" Thus in the spiritual as in the natural growth, all depends upon the Lord.        ［Matthew 6:24-33, quoted.］                                          -4-  {18MR 3.3}
[18MR 4.1]          These things in the natural world are to be considered and their lessons applied to the spiritual life, the spiritual growth. To every man God, not man, has given his work. This is an individual work--the formation of a character after the divine similitude. The lily is not to strive to be like the rose. There are distinctions in the formation of the flowers and in the fruits, but all derive their peculiar variance from God. All are the Lord's. So it is God's design that even the best of men shall not all be of the same character.  {18MR 4.1}
[18MR 4.2]          A life consecrated to the service of God will be developed and beautified in its individuality. No person can sink his individuality in that of another, but we are all, as individuals, to be grafted into the one parent stock, and there is to be unity in diversity. The great Master Artist has not made two leaves of the same tree precisely alike; so His creative power does not give to all minds the same likeness. They are created to live through ceaseless ages, and there is to be complete unity, mind blending with mind, but none are to be of the same mold.  {18MR 4.2}
[18MR 4.3]          There is abundant room for all in harmonious diversity to act the part assigned them. No one man's mind or judgment is complete. The Word of God is dealing with principles that all must respect. It has been an educator in every age. Divinity speaks through a variety of His human agents.  {18MR 4.3}
[18MR 4.4]          All are to strive for the fragrance of Christ's character; then they can act their part in the world as God designs they shall do. Let us thank God that all characters are to be fashioned not after man's pattern but after the Lord's ideal. Let us allow our fellow workers to grow up in religious experience under the molding and fashioning of the Holy Spirit. Let none feel at liberty to demerit and belittle God's workmanship, the men who do not bear their likeness.                                          -5-     David could not wear Saul's armor, and, dropping it, he took the sling and the stone with which he was familiar, and slew the Philistine who defied Israel.  {18MR 4.4}
[18MR 5.1]          To love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves, means the formation of a symmetrical character. It behoves every soul who is striving for the overcomer's reward to heed the principles enjoined, and bring them into his practical life. Then there will be a precious bond of union, brother with brother. Under the Holy Spirit's working, selfishness, self-sufficiency, and self-esteem will be put away.  {18MR 5.1}
[18MR 5.2]          Not all are given the same work. "And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." Here it is plainly revealed that the saints are to be perfect in the development of their different gifts; and the grace of Christ is to be revealed in bringing all into unity, love, and harmonious action, "till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love" ［Ephesians 4:13-16］.  {18MR 5.2}
[18MR 5.3]          This is the relation church members should sustain to each other. This is to be conscientiously carried out. Each is to live and act individually before                                           -6-     God, and conscientiously give to his fellow laborers a place to work, without jealousy, evil surmising, or evil-speaking. We are to encourage one another. "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil-speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" ［verses 29-32］. This word is to be brought into the practical life.  {18MR 5.3}
[18MR 6.1]         Man may see no place for the working of certain gifts, because they are not his gifts, but let each think of himself as God would have him. Let each bear in mind that his capabilities are only lent him, and that by these God is testing him to see whether he will use these entrusted talents to honor God, and work for the good of his brother and neighbor.  {18MR 6.1}
[18MR 6.2]          Holiness, which means wholeness to God, is wholly acceptable to God. A Paul may plant, and Apollos water, but God giveth the increase. "He that soweth to his flesh, shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit, shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting" ［Galatians 6:8］. As the workers till the soil, they are to reap all the advantages possible by making an application of the lessons they receive. In the natural world unseen agencies are constantly at work to produce the essential results, but the harvest to be reaped depends upon the seed that has been sown. After man faithfully prepares the land, and plants the seed, God must work constantly to cause the seed to germinate.                                          -7-  {18MR 6.2}
[18MR 7.1]          So it is in spiritual things. The word of the living God is the seed, Christ is the sower, and unless He constantly works the soil of the heart, there will be no harvest. "Ye are God's husbandry; ye are God's building." God gave His Son to die, the Just for the unjust, that there might be a glorious harvest of souls. The human heart is God's seed plot, and the righteousness of Christ must be cherished there. Then let no man trust in the arm of flesh, but in God. Let each give evidence that he has faith, that he is not a religious dwarf, but that he grows under the dews and showers of the grace of Christ, that his life of righteousness is not of man's creating, but that it is the righteousness of Christ, which the grace of God has nourished in his heart.  {18MR 7.1}
[18MR 7.2]          To some the Lord has given a special work, in bearing testimonies of warning and reproof, to break down the strongholds of iniquity, to arouse conviction in the human heart, and bring man to repentance. Some messages come as the Lord's hammer, to break down the workings of Satan, and bring men to the living God. But mingled with this decided work of standing in defense of the truth is Christ's consolation, which comes when repentance reveals what sin really is. And while some are called to battle desperately with an evil work, there is another kind of message to be borne to the ones who, while suffering wrong, have endured the temptation to harbor a sense of injustice and cherish it in the mind.  {18MR 7.2}
[18MR 7.3]          Again, some have the gift given them of God to act as organizers. Others fill their place as they work in retirement, feeling themselves little and unknown, with but few to recognize their work, and none to pity their mistakes and praise their victories. But the Lord uses all these elements. No one man can fill every place, and God's great work must go forward. Those who consider                                             -8-     themselves the least, and in their weakness lean upon God, those who walk in humility of mind, as children--these will become first, and the first last. In every age God has His workmen, and at the needed time preparation is made for some man with talent, with some gift, to come in. Thus the Lord reveals that He has the supervision of His work.  {18MR 7.3}
[18MR 8.1]          The most essential work now to be done is to consider the words of Christ, "All ye are brethren." Each must stand in his lot and place to do the work appointed him, in perfect harmony with his brethren. All are to seek to strengthen and build up the waste places, to hold aloft the Bible standard, to voice the third angel's message, to live the truth, to exercise mercy and the love of God, and be ready for any work that may be next in the service of God. They are to bear in mind the teachings of Christ upon the Mount of Olives, and mark the attributes which He calls blessed. "Blessed are the meek," He says, "for they shall inherit the earth." "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled." "Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy." Then let us cultivate the precious attribute of mercy, for it will be reflected back to us again.  {18MR 8.1}
[18MR 8.2]          "Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God." The psalmist says: "Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart." "Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation."                                        -9-  {18MR 8.2}
[18MR 9.1]          Shall we not receive this light shining forth from the Word of God? Shall we not be thankful for His Word, and thank Him for such plain instruction in regard to the duty devolving upon all who desire the blessings specified? Shall we consult human beings when we have the voice of God to speak to us?  {18MR 9.1}
[18MR 9.2]          "Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God." Who calls them so? All the heavenly intelligences. Then do not encourage any tempted soul to tell you the grievances of a brother or a friend. Tell them that you do not want to hear their words of censure and evil speaking, because your Counsellor has told you in His Word that if you cease to stir up strife, and become a peacemaker, you will be blessed. Tell them that this is the blessing you are craving.  {18MR 9.2}
[18MR 9.3]          For Christ's sake do not speak or think evil. May the Lord help us not only to read the Bible but to practice its teachings. The human agent who is faithful in his work, who unites gentleness with his power, justice with his love, causes rejoicing among the heavenly intelligences, and glorifies God. Let us strive earnestly to be good and to do good, and we shall receive the crown of life that fadeth not away.--Ms 116, 1898.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Oct. 1, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 9.3}
[18MR 10.1]       MR No. 1302 - A Vision Given in Oswego, New York         I saw some in Zion that were languishing; they were dormant and unbelieving. I asked the angel if Zion should languish. Said the angel, "She is rising never to fall again. God has stretched out His hand the second time to recover the remnant of His people." I saw that some who meet together at ［the conferences at］ Oswego and vicinity were not right. They do not partake of the spirit of the lovely Jesus; they have not vital godliness, and unless they soon partake of the spirit of Jesus and have their hearts sanctified by the truth they profess to believe, they will be purged out of the camp of Israel.  {18MR 10.1}
[18MR 10.2]          I saw ［that］ there needed to be a searching of heart among them. Said the angel, "Thou art upon the enchanted ground. Dost thou not see it? Awake and arise and put on the strength of the Lord. The powers of darkness are rising. Art thou rising? Is it not getting the victory over thee?"  {18MR 10.2}
[18MR 10.3]          I was pointed back to the children of Israel in Egypt. I saw ［that］ when God worked through Moses before Pharaoh, the magicians came up and said they could do the same--(that they could work the same miracles). I saw that the same work was going on now on the earth that the magicians carried on anciently. The signs and mighty wonders of the devil have increased within a few months tenfold and they will be on the increase and spread, and unless Israel is constantly rising with the message and growing in grace and in the knowledge of the truth, the powers of darkness will get the victory over them.                                            -11-  {18MR 10.3}
[18MR 11.1]          I saw ［that］ we must be daily rising and keep the ascendancy above the powers of darkness. Our God is mighty. I saw ［that］ singing to the glory of God often drove the enemy ［away］, and praising God would beat him back and give us the victory. I saw ［that］ there was too little glorifying God, too little childlike simplicity among the remnant.  {18MR 11.1}
[18MR 11.2]          I asked the angel why there was not more faith and power in Israel. Said he, "Ye let go of the arm of God too quick. Press your petitions to the throne, and hold on by living faith; believe ［that］ ye receive the things ye ask for, and you shall have them." I was then pointed to Elijah. He was subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly. His faith endured the trial. Seven times he prayed before the Lord, and at last the cloud was seen. I saw we had doubted and wounded Jesus by our unbelief.  {18MR 11.2}
[18MR 11.3]          "God's people are rising," said the angel, "never to fall again." "Be careful," said the angel, "lest the branches be cut off and others are raised up in their stead." I saw ［that］ some would bear fruit, and work to the glory of God. I saw we must keep close to Jesus, and fast and pray, if we could not get the victory over the powers of darkness. I then saw that Brother Gorsline had wounded and torn the hearts of God's people. I saw he had been stubborn and rebellious, and unless he changed his course entirely, the church should disfellowship him, for he has been a dead weight to the church.  {18MR 11.3}
[18MR 11.4]          Said the angel, "Jesus has nearly finished His work in the sanctuary. It is no time to be stupid now. A quick work will the Lord do upon the earth. The four angels will soon let go the four winds." Said the angel, "Beware how thou treadest enchanted ground all around the east and west, north and south. If                                           -12-     Satan can get thee to slumber now, he is sure of his prey." I saw ［that］ some in Israel had been half starved for food, and when the present truth was presented to them they ate it with thankfulness and gratitude like half-starved children. Said the angel, "Can ye stand in the battle in the day of the Lord? Ye need to be washed, and live in newness of life." Then I saw ［that］ those whose hands are now engaged in making up the breach and are standing in the gaps, but that have formally since '44 broken the commandments of God and have so far followed the pope as to keep the first day instead of the seventh, would have to go down into the water and be baptized in the faith of the shut door and keeping the commandments of God, and in the faith of Jesus ［who is］ coming to sit on the throne of His father David, and to redeem Israel. I also saw ［that］ those who have been baptized as a door into the professed churches will have to be baptized out of that door again, and into the faith mentioned above; and all who have not been baptized since '44 will have to be baptized before Jesus comes, and some will not gain progress now until that duty is done, and then they must live anew unto God and serve Him faithfully.  {18MR 11.4}
[18MR 12.1]          Said the angel, "Will ye sink and let others take the stars to your crown?" I told the angel that I could not endure to see any in Israel falling back. "Thou Advocate, save the purchase of Thy blood. What more can we do for Thee?" Oh, that we had more to give to the lovely Jesus, more to render to Him for His merciful kindness to us. We will do anything, we will go anywhere, only lend us strength from the Sanctuary.  {18MR 12.1}
[18MR 12.2]          The angel said, "Some tried too hard to believe; faith is so simple ye look above it. Satan has deceived some and got them to looking to their own                                           -13-     unworthiness." I saw ［that］ they must look away from self to the worthiness of Jesus, and throw themselves, just as they are, needy and dependent and unworthy, upon His mercy, and by faith draw strength and nourishment from Him. Said the angel, "The desolations of Zion are accomplished." I saw ［that］ He took away the first and established the second--that is, those who were in the faith would become rebellious and be purged out, and others who had not heard the Advent doctrine and rejected it would embrace the truth and take their places. Said the angel, "Will ye lack faith? Climb up; take hold; never let go of the promises of God, for they are sure. Ye have been discouraged too quick."  {18MR 12.2}
[18MR 13.1]          I begged strength of the angel, as I saw I must come back to this world. I covenanted to live unto God. I begged the angel not to let me feel again the awful anguish of seeing some in Israel sinking. He said ［that］ strength should be given me to endure all that God should lay upon me.  {18MR 13.1}
[18MR 13.2]          I then saw ［that］ Brother Chapin, had been rescued from the jaws of the lion as a bird is rescued from the snare of the fowler. I saw ［that］ God had felt after him when he was in darkness, and he had but just escaped by the skin of his teeth, and all his work at Hamilton must be taken back before he can gain progress. I saw he must make square work for eternity. I saw ［that］ his soul was worth more than ten thousand worlds like this. I did praise and adore God that he had borne with Brother Chapin and finally had stretched out His arm in that dark spot and brought him to the light that he might discover the darkness he had been in. This is written in haste. Excuse bad writing.--Ms 5. 1850.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Oct. 1, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 13.2}
[18MR 14.1]       MR No. 1303 - Heaven and Earth Are Closely Linked; Lessons From Daniel's Prayer Experience in Daniel 9 and10         (Written November 22, 1896, from Ashfield, NSW, to Dr. J. H. Kellogg, Medical Sanitarium, Battle Creek, Michigan.)  {18MR 14.1}
[18MR 14.2]          Yesterday (Sabbath) morning, Willie spoke to the church in Ashfield. At 3 p.m. we hired a horse and carriage to take me to Newtown, four miles from Ashfield. We met in a small hall upstairs where a goodly number were assembled. I spoke to them on the prayer of Daniel, his contrition of soul, and his deep sorrow as he witnessed the desolation of Jerusalem.  {18MR 14.2}
[18MR 14.3]         Daniel identified himself with Israel's sins, and confessed their sins as his own. He prayed, "O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for Thine own sake, O my God: for Thy city and Thy people are called by Thy name" ［Daniel 9:19］. Yet Gabriel, the heavenly messenger, thrice called him a man greatly beloved. ［Verses 20-23, quoted.］ Here is a communication direct from heaven to Daniel.  {18MR 14.3}
[18MR 14.4]         How can we but see how closely the universe of heaven is connected with this fallen world! These communications given to Daniel should fill our souls with awe, with humility, with meekness, and lay our pride low in the dust.  {18MR 14.4}
[18MR 14.5]          I tried to present to the people the short time we have in which to work. I tried to present before them the necessity of prayer, earnest, heart-felt prayer. How little exaltation Daniel had when the Lord condescended to communicate with him. ［Daniel 10:15-21, quoted.］                                          -15-  {18MR 14.5}
[18MR 15.1]          A wonderful connection is here seen between the universe of heaven and this world. The things revealed to Daniel were afterward complemented by the revelation made to John on the isle of Patmos. These two books should be carefully perused. Twice Daniel inquired, How long shall it be to the end of time? "And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. 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. . . . But go thou thy way till the end be: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days" ［Daniel 12:8-10, 13］.  {18MR 15.1}
[18MR 15.2]          It was the Lion of the tribe of Judah who unsealed the book and gave to John the revelation of what should be in these last days. Daniel stood in his lot to bear his testimony, which was sealed until the time of the end, when the first angel's message should be proclaimed to our world. These matters are of infinite importance in these last days, but while "many shall be purified, and made white, and tried," "the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand."  {18MR 15.2}
[18MR 15.3]          How true this is. Sin is the transgression of the law of God, and those in the denominational churches who will not accept the light in regard to the law of God will not understand the proclamation of the first, second, and third angel's messages. The book of Daniel is unsealed in the revelation to John, and carries us forward to the last scenes of this earth's history.  {18MR 15.3}
[18MR 15.4]          The case of Daniel reveals to us the fact that the Lord is always ready to hear the prayers of the contrite soul, and when we seek the Lord with all our                                           -16-     hearts He will answer our petitions. Here is revealed where Daniel obtained his skill and understanding; and if we will only ask of God wisdom, we may be blessed with increased ability, and with power from heaven. If we will come to God just as we are, and pray to Him in faith as did Daniel, we shall see of the salvation of God. We need to pray as we never prayed before. Even our prayers are indited by the Holy Spirit.  {18MR 15.4}
[18MR 16.1]          We are praying for the Lord to open the way for His work to be accomplished in this place. We must first bend all our energies to have our school buildings completed. The Lord will make a way for us to do this. The meetinghouse will have to wait until more money comes in. Then our Health Home must be thoroughly established. A meetinghouse must be built in Sydney also. All these things we shall accomplish as the Lord opens the way. We shall ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally. We have Daniel's prayer and its results to help us in our conceptions of the willingness of God to help all who come unto Him. "Watch and pray," are the words of Christ, "lest ye enter into temptation."  {18MR 16.1}
[18MR 16.2]          I can write but little more now, but my heart is deeply stirred. I am full of the word of the Lord for the churches in different places. I have been unable to sleep full time for several weeks, except about two nights in a week. I am awakened at one and two o'clock. This is the time I can write. My hand goes over the paper rapidly, and my head is clear. I am deeply stirred in spirit. Sometimes I feel that impressions of the truth, and the important events that are opening before us, will deprive me of physical strength and lay me prostrate under a sense of the eternal realities opening before us. And yet many of our own people seem to be paralyzed.                                          -17-  {18MR 16.2}
[18MR 17.1]          When on our way to the Adelaide camp meeting, we stayed here over Sabbath and Sunday. The Lord gave me a message for the people in Ashfield, clear, decided, sharp, and which cut to the soul. Its results were most excellent, and since our conference, which has just been held, closing last Wednesday, there has been an altogether different atmosphere among our people.  {18MR 17.1}
[18MR 17.2]          Nearly all are new in the faith. Those who have been sowing their seeds of doubt and criticism are not here, and we have much to be thankful for, for we know that the Holy Spirit has been operating on human hearts.  {18MR 17.2}
[18MR 17.3]          After speaking on Sabbath, we had a social meeting. Brother Jennett, who has not been long in the faith, and has been halting more or less between two opinions, bore a most decided and excellent testimony. He exhorted all to pray for the Holy Spirit, which alone can melt the proud heart. He said that he felt his heart full of the love of God. These were wonderful words for him. He rejoiced in the truth, and thanked God for the third angel's message.  {18MR 17.3}
[18MR 17.4]          The working of the Holy Spirit was felt in the meeting. A prominent member of the Salvation Army was present. She said this was the first Sabbath she had kept. She had been convicted of the truth, and had been searching for a long time; but the captain and the whole army were interested in her case, and had put so many obstacles in her way that she did not know what to do. "But oh, how thankful I am," she said, "that I was here today. Your words were from God. They have cut away my difficulties. I see everything in a clear and solemn light."  {18MR 17.4}
[18MR 17.5]          She related to me how many objections they had brought up before her, declaring that the first day of the week is the Sabbath; they no longer call it "Sunday." The round of objections which we all know, was repeated. "But," said                                          -18-     she, "you have enlightened me in regard to my work. I shall search the Scriptures until I can give a reason for walking in this new light. I believe that many souls will be converted from this army on the Sabbath question. And that prayer of Daniel! How wonderful, how full, how earnest, how complete! As you presented before us the result, I felt indeed that, through God, you were placing my feet upon solid rock."  {18MR 17.5}
[18MR 18.1]          Then I told her the result of Daniel's humbling himself, and what an experience he had. I referred her to chapter ten of this same book, where Daniel tells of the impression made upon him by the vision: "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."  {18MR 18.1}
[18MR 18.2]          "This, my sister," I said, "will be the impression made upon those who have the greatest manifestation of the Spirit of God. Not one boastful word of self-esteem will be presented by those who have a knowledge of the true God, and of Jesus Christ whom He has sent. No one who has a clear conception of God will be uplifted in himself. This was the impression made upon the man who is thrice called 'greatly beloved,' because he was contrite in spirit, and faithful, and true." She replied, "How hard it is to die to self, and lift the cross of Christ. But I thank the Lord with heart, and soul, and voice for this new victory gained."  {18MR 18.2}
[18MR 18.3]          This woman is an intelligent, noble soul in Christ. She sees now where she has been in transgression, and longs to acknowledge the truth to show her repentance, and be clothed with the righteousness of Christ. I said to her, "The Lord will be by your side when you become a witness for Him. All the day                                            -19-     long you will realize His blessedness in a new and more complete experience; and when you honor God by obedience at every step, God will honor you."  {18MR 18.3}
[18MR 19.1]          On Friday I had written about forty pages, and on Sabbath morning I was weary, but this did not discourage me. I know upon whose arm I am leaning for support, and the Lord did not disappoint me. As I meditate upon the goodness, and mercy, and love of God, I cannot but praise His holy name. "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."  {18MR 19.1}
[18MR 19.2]          If these words will not thrill through every soul as he shall contemplate them, what will? This is the price of our salvation--the most humiliating, agonizing death a human being could suffer. And the Son of God endured this shame as the penalty of guilt, in order that the sinner may stand guiltless and innocent before the throne of God. See what may arise from the height of exaltation from which our Saviour came, and the depth of humiliation to which He reached in order to grasp the sinner and lift him up to become a partaker of His divine nature, and link his life, his soul, with the Infinite God. When we obtain a sight of that cross; when that suffering, agonized cry, "It is finished," pierces our ears, the sacrifice is complete. His love has imprinted the name of every saint upon the palms of His hands.  {18MR 19.2}
[18MR 19.3]          Oh, unbounded grace! What love expressed! Shall we not expel pride from the soul? Can we cherish self-esteem; shall we harbor stubbornness of soul when we see and understand what our redemption has cost? Shall not a view of the cross cause us to humble ourselves in the sight of God, that He may lift us up?  {18MR 19.3}
[18MR 19.4]          But while we are to humble ourselves, we are to have a true sense of our value as God has estimated us, in the price paid for our redemption. We are to                                          -20-     value every capability, every talent entrusted to us, as the Lord's most precious endowment, that we may use them to His name's glory.  {18MR 19.4}
[18MR 20.1]          When we look upon ourselves as purchased at an infinite cost in order that we might have every advantage in the strife for immortality, eternal life, we will make every gift a treasure of influence whereby we may reach perfection, completeness in Jesus Christ. Then let the prayer of Daniel be our prayer, that the Holy Spirit may work in our behalf.  {18MR 20.1}
[18MR 20.2]          Today I, with my workers, am preparing the American mail. I am sending copies of testimonies to California, to Africa, and to Melbourne. Oh, that God would give that impression to the human heart that would humble the pride of the human agent! Then the holiness, the meekness, of Christ will be manifested. If we persevere in maintaining the likeness of Christ, He will write our names, as He did Daniel's for his faithfulness, as children of God, "greatly beloved."  {18MR 20.2}
[18MR 20.3]          Ashfield, Nov. 23, 1896. Sunday was a very busy day with us all. My workers are with me, and they worked hard all day. On that day I had my subject, "The Armor of Jesus Christ," ready to present in the little chapel in Ashfield, which is only a minute's walk from our hired house. But when I stood before the people, I spoke upon a subject that I had not looked at at all--1 Corinthians 9:24-27. When I was preparing for meeting, I said, "I would feel relieved if someone would take my place," for I had been writing all day, and was weary both in body and mind. But I had not been upon my feet one minute when I felt that an angel of God stood by my side and strengthened me. I talked more than one hour, and all listened with interest. The blessing of the Lord was upon me.  {18MR 20.3}
[18MR 20.4]          After the meeting I was warmly greeted. One lady brought me a small but choice bouquet. Then the usher of the house came, bringing a good-sized fancy                                             -21-     basket full of beautiful flowers. Both basket and flowers were a present. The basket was made by the son of one of our sisters. Inside was a tin tank, shaped in the form of a basket, and this was supplied with water, the flowers being arranged in the water. I thought much of this token of regard. It was more than I could carry.  {18MR 20.4}
[18MR 21.1]          All are gathering up flower roots for me to make my wilderness home blossom as the rose. Already we have many flowers, but I have plenty of space, and have set it apart for flowers. I wish that my home shall be made beautiful by the things of nature that God has created. Generally I call the attention of the children to these beautiful flowers, and tell them that these things are an expression of the love of God for them. I direct their mind from nature to nature's God. These lessons always seem to touch the hearts of the parents as well as the children. The pulpit is often festooned with flowers of every variety, and beautiful bouquets are brought me.  {18MR 21.1}
[18MR 21.2]          The Lord blessed me and the people last night. When I had retired to rest for the night, the matter came distinctly before me. I had not spoken from the text I had selected, but I was not sorry, for it must have been the mind of God that I should speak as I did. But the Lord knows all about this.  {18MR 21.2}
[18MR 21.3]          Outsiders are coming in to every meeting to hear the truth. There is now a nice couple interested. The husband has a good business, and this stands in his way; but the Lord will open the way for him. We have been here two weeks on the morrow. I do not know that we shall spend another Sabbath here. --Letter 59, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. October 1, 1987. Entire Letter.  {18MR 21.3}
[18MR 22.1]       MR No. 1304 - Daniel and Revelation Have Been Unsealed, and Should Be Studied; Improved Experience Will Result         (Written Jan. 27, 1900, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, to F. E. Belden, Review and Herald, Battle Creek, Michigan.)  {18MR 22.1}
[18MR 22.2]          I feel a deep sense of the solemnity of the time in which we are now living. The signs of the times testify that the end is nearer than when we first believed. Yet there is not shown by many a faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Oh, this is a solemn time, especially for those who know the truth.  {18MR 22.2}
[18MR 22.3]         In the past teachers have declared Daniel and the Revelation to be sealed books, and the people have turned from them. The veil whose apparent mystery has kept many from lifting it, God's own hand has withdrawn from these portions of His Word. The very name "Revelation" contradicts the statement that it is a sealed book. Revelation means that something of importance is revealed. The truths of this book are addressed to those living in these last days. We are standing with the veil removed in the holy place of sacred things. We are not to stand without, we are to enter; not with careless, irreverent thoughts, not with impetuous footsteps, but with reverence and godly fear. We are nearing the time when the prophecies of the book of Revelation are to be fulfilled.  {18MR 22.3}
[18MR 22.4]          This book opens with the words, "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, to show unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass; and He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John; who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that                                             -23-     he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein; for the time is at hand."  {18MR 22.4}
[18MR 23.1]          This book demands close, prayerful study, lest it be interpreted according to the ideas of men, and false construction be given to the sacred word of the Lord, which in its symbols and figures means so much to us. There is so much that we positively must understand in order that we may shape our course of action so that we shall not receive the plagues which are coming upon the world. In the Revelation the deep things of God are portrayed. Those whose hearts are wholly sanctified to God will be brought nigh to see priceless gems through the telescope of faith. And as they apply the truth to practice, the still deeper mysteries are stamped on the soul. Those thus honored are to communicate to others that which they have received. And as they do this, angels make the impression on hearts.  {18MR 23.1}
[18MR 23.2]          All who understand the Word of God will realize that the things of minor importance which in the past have occupied their time and consumed their strength have deprived them of an experience and knowledge which they might have obtained had they kept the faith untarnished by selfishness. Had they done this, they would have understood the results of possessing that faith which works by love and purifies the soul.  {18MR 23.2}
[18MR 23.3]          Let none think, because they cannot explain the meaning of every symbol in the Revelation, that it is of no use for them to search this book with deep, earnest longing and intense desire to know the meaning of the truth it contains. The One who revealed these mysteries to John can and will give the diligent searcher for truth a foretaste of heavenly things, hereafter to be realized.                                             -24-     Rich blessings will come to him who reads and hears the words of this prophecy, and keeps those things which are written therein.  {18MR 23.3}
[18MR 24.1]          We have the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, which is the Spirit of prophecy. Priceless gems are to be found in the Word of God. Those who search this Word should keep the mind clear. Never should they indulge perverted appetite in eating and drinking. If they do this, the brain will be confused; they will be unable to bear the strain of digging deep to find out the meaning of those things which relate to the closing scenes of this earth's history.  {18MR 24.1}
[18MR 24.2]          When the books of Daniel and Revelation are better understood, believers will have an entirely different religious experience. They will be given such glimpses of the open gates of heaven that heart and mind will be impressed in regard to the character all must develop in order to realize the blessedness which is to be the reward of the pure in heart. The Lord will bless all who will seek humbly and meekly to understand that which is revealed in the Revelation. This book contains so much that is large with immortality and full of glory that all who read and search it earnestly receive the blessing to those "that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein."  {18MR 24.2}
[18MR 24.3]          One thing will certainly be understood from the study of Revelation --that the connection between God and His people is close and decided. John writes, "Grace be unto you, and peace from Him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before His throne: and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from                                             -25-     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."  {18MR 24.3}
[18MR 25.1]          "Kings and priests unto God." What an exaltation this is.--Letter 16, 1900.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Oct. 1, 1987. Entire Letter.  {18MR 25.1}
[18MR 26.1]       MR No. 1305 - The Message in Revelation         I am not able to sleep past one o'clock. Things are presented to me that keep me wide-awake.  {18MR 26.1}
[18MR 26.2]          There are dangers before us that we are to avoid. Christ has laid down for His church great principles that are to be made known to the world in good works. His instruction on this point is given with authority. The principles to be maintained are valid for all time, shedding from age to age a clear, definite, steady light to be regarded by every tempest-tossed church that shall exist in our world. These principles are not to be confused with worldly-policy plans, but are to stand free from any binding about of God's people.  {18MR 26.2}
[18MR 26.3]          In endeavoring to harmonize with worldly sentiments, Dr. Kellogg does not discern the influences that are exercised upon the commandment-keeping people of God. His spiritual eyesight is not clear. Not all of his work is approved by God. No one who has had the light of truth before him for years, and has not yielded to its influence, can be expected to be sensitive to the clear, gospel sentiments of the truth. There is constant danger that the obedient and the disobedient in the world and in the nominal churches will become so amalgamated that the line of demarkation between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not will become confused and indistinct.  {18MR 26.3}
[18MR 26.4]          The exaltation of a so-called medical missionary work, while the character of true medical missionary work has not been understood, has dishonored and displeased God. There is danger that the church, instead of being built upon                                           -27-     the foundation, Jesus Christ, will be marred by the introduction of objectionable, base material; that worldly-policy principles will steal in as a supposed necessity in order to maintain influence with unbelievers; that wood, hay, and stubble will take the place of gold, silver, and precious stones, representations of heavenly principles that abide through time and through eternity.  {18MR 26.4}
[18MR 27.1]         Dr. Kellogg has not magnified the holy principles God would present to His people. The Lord does not acknowledge the methods that he has brought into the medical missionary work. These methods are confusing to the minds of God's people. Let Dr. Kellogg step from between his fellow-physicians and the light of heaven for this time, then they will be able to see with anointed eyes how closely the medical missionary work is to be bound up with the proclamation of the message of this time.  {18MR 27.1}
[18MR 27.2]          The Lord has presented before me the dangers that are threatening His people who have the sacred work of proclaiming the third angel's message with clearness and distinctness. God's people must beware lest they be ensnared by unsanctified propositions. Our young people must not be placed where they will be misled by wrong sentiments. The truth is not to be blanketed. The message for these last days is to be given in no indistinct utterance.  {18MR 27.2}
[18MR 27.3]          "And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with Him an hundred and forty and four thousand, having His Father's name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the                                              -28-     hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits 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 14:1-5］.  {18MR 27.3}
[18MR 28.1]          This Scripture represents the character of the people of God for these last days. The everlasting gospel is to be preached, and it is to be practiced in true missionary work carried forward not after the wisdom that men may devise, but after the wisdom of God. All who walk in safe paths are to understand that the third angel's message is of consequence to the whole world, and must be carried to the world in clear, straight lines, and in its distinctive features, as Christ revealed it to John.  {18MR 28.1}
[18MR 28.2]          ［Revelation 14:6-12, quoted.］ This is the message we have to bear; this is the work we have to do. This is the message God has kept before the Seventh-day Adventist people. The truth of this message will not decrease, but will increase in force and importance as we are brought down to the close of the work of God on earth. We have no time to lose.  {18MR 28.2}
[18MR 28.3]         "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." Since the proclamation of the first, second, and third angel's messages, many standard bearers have fallen asleep in Jesus; they have laid off their armor, but their works do follow them. The work advances, and the faithful ones hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end.                                              -29-  {18MR 28.3}
[18MR 29.1]          This vision that Christ presented to John, presenting the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, is to be definitely proclaimed to all nations, peoples, and tongues. The churches, represented by Babylon, are represented as having fallen from their spiritual state to become a persecuting power against those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. To John this persecuting power is represented as having horns like a lamb, but as speaking like a dragon.  {18MR 29.1}
[18MR 29.2]          "And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And 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 in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in the right hand, or in their foreheads: and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, of the number of his name" ［Revelation 13:11-17］.  {18MR 29.2}
[18MR 29.3]          As we near the close of time, there will be greater and still greater external parade of heathen power; heathen deities will manifest their signal                                            -30-     power, and will exhibit themselves before the cities of the world, and this delineation has already begun to be fulfilled.  {18MR 29.3}
[18MR 30.1]          By a variety of images the Lord Jesus represented to John the wicked character and seductive influence of those who have been distinguished for their persecution of God's people. All need wisdom carefully to search out the mystery of iniquity that figures so largely in the winding up of this earth's history. God's presentation of the detestable works of the inhabitants of the ruling powers of the world who bind themselves into secret societies and confederacies, not honoring the law of God, should enable the people who have the light of truth to keep clear of all these evils. More and more will all false religionists of the world manifest their evil doings; for there are but two parties--those who keep the commandments of God and those who war against God's holy law.  {18MR 30.1}
[18MR 30.2]          One of the marked characteristics of these false religious powers in that while they profess to have the character and features of a lamb, while they profess to be allied to heaven, they reveal by their actions that they have the heart of a dragon, that they are instigated by and united with satanic power, the same power that created war in heaven when Satan sought the supremacy and was expelled from heaven.  {18MR 30.2}
[18MR 30.3]          Now, in these last days of this earth's history, the commandment-keeping people of God by keeping His law are to make earnest efforts to exalt the Lord God of heaven. The Word of God is specific, marking to a certainty the opposing influences against the seventh-day Sabbath, which is the sign of God and by which the loyalty of His people is tested. "And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths                                          -31-     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.  {18MR 30.3}
[18MR 31.1]          "Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed" ［Exodus 31:2-17］.  {18MR 31.1}
[18MR 31.2]         The Sabbath was God's sign between Him and His people, and evidence of His kindness, mercy, and love, a token by which His people are distinguished from all false religionists of the world. And God has pledged Himself that He will bless them in their obedience, showing Himself that He is their God, and has taken them into covenant relation with Himself, and that He will fulfill His promise to all that are obedient. Not upon the first day, but upon the seventh day, God rested and was refreshed--satisfied with His work of creation. Then "the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy," and now man's observance of the Lord's day of rest will again cause joy among the angels of heaven. The time in which we live is a time when the church militant will realize the oppressive power of persecution, because they keep the Sabbath of creation which God has sanctified and blessed.  {18MR 31.2}
[18MR 31.3]          The observance of the Sabbath is a line of demarkation between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. It is God's great memorial of the                                             -32-     fact that in six days He created the heavens and the earth, and "on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed." It is His memorial to preserve among the nations a clear, definite, unmistakable knowledge of the only true God, an evidence that He is a God above all gods. For this reason He set apart the day on which He rested after creating the world, a day in which no common work should be done. God has given men six days in the week in which to labor and do all their work; the one day wherein He rested after creating the world and all things that are therein was to be His own holy day, when men should worship Him, the Creator of the heavens and the earth. This portion of time is especially set apart for rest and for worship, that men may look upon the heavens and the earth, and honor, worship, praise, and exalt the God who created all things by Jesus Christ.  {18MR 31.3}
[18MR 32.1]          By observing the Sabbath day wherein God rested, the knowledge of God would be preserved. It is a "sign between Me and you . . . that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you." Those who keep the Sabbath holy as the Lord has specified, reveal that they are His peculiar people, and that He who made the heavens and the earth is their God.  {18MR 32.1}
[18MR 32.2]          In His ministerial labors Christ declared to the Pharisees and to the Sadducees and to all the Gentile world, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. 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. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven" ［Matthew 5:17-19］. Thus did He                                             -33-     rebuke the pretentious piety of the Pharisees, and thus did He correct their erroneous ideas of the law of God.  {18MR 32.2}
[18MR 33.1]          In the very time in which we live, the Lord has called His people and has given them a message to bear. He has called them to expose the wickedness of the man of sin who has made the Sunday law a distinctive power, who has thought to change times and laws, and to oppress the people of God who stand firmly to honor Him by keeping the only true Sabbath, the Sabbath of creation, as holy unto the Lord. He has called them to bear the sign of God, to exalt the Lord in keeping holy His law; for it is a transcript of His character. No part of the law of God and their covenant obligation to keep that law holy is to lose its binding claims upon all the world. Those who have had the light upon keeping the law of Jehovah are to stand firmly in the faith, and to make that light shine forth in clear, distinct rays.  {18MR 33.1}
[18MR 33.2]          The thirteenth chapter of Revelation presents a power that is to be made prominent in these last days. Let all understand that it is Christ, the Captain of the Lord's host, who gave these visions to John. Christ came in person to the lonely isle of Patmos, and showed John the things that must be, ［things］ that were of the highest importance to His people. (［?］ Through the person of His highest angels. He had veiled His own glory.) This message is to come to God's people, straight, sharp, and clean from all mixture of human wisdom and tradition.  {18MR 33.2}
[18MR 33.3]          The enmity between the seed of the woman and the serpent is clearly defined by the Lord. "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." "And unto Adam He said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife,                                             -34-     and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat of the herb of the field; in the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return."  {18MR 33.3}
[18MR 34.1]          By following his own way, by acting in harmony with Satan's temptations and in opposition to the known will of God, man vainly attempted to elevate and bless himself. Thus he gained an experimental knowledge of disobedience to God's commandments. Thus he knew good and evil; thus he lost his fidelity and loyalty to God and opened the floodgates of evil and suffering to the whole human family. How many today are making the same experiment! When will man learn that the only means for his safety is through a full confidence in a "thus saith the Lord"?  {18MR 34.1}
[18MR 34.2]          Satan is seeking to intrude his own inventions upon the children of God through human methods. He is seeking to be received as God, or even to be placed above God.  {18MR 34.2}
[18MR 34.3]          In changing the Sabbath to the first day of the week, he leads men to disbelieve God's declarations, and so to regard their own ways and plans that they appear exceeding wise in their own eyes and in their perverted judgment. Through human policy he leads men to regard the expressed commandments of God as of less force than human tradition, and to regard a deviation from that law which is always holy and just and good, as of little account. He sees that by thus preventing human agencies from walking as obedient children in harmony with God, he can hinder the accomplishment of God's work in our world.                                              -35-  {18MR 34.3}
[18MR 35.1]          But Satan's connivings with human agencies who stand in responsible positions are just as much to be feared and shunned now after the experiment of sin has been tried, as it was in the case of our first parents. I am instructed to say that the men who are placed in positions of responsibility in the work of God have overestimated their right to control others. The position a man occupies does not change his character. Some have seemed to feel that they must devise for churches and for sanitariums and that there was to be no questioning of their judgment. Let them learn of Jesus at every step. He should be the chief authority for every man.  {18MR 35.1}
[18MR 35.2]          The One who has often been our Instructor says, "How hard it is for man to walk humbly with his God, in a contrite spirit taking God's way and rejecting Satan's propositions which seem to present great worldly advantages." The influence of man's having his own way in the place of firmly standing on the solid foundation that God alone has laid, has been repeated over and over again. Refusing to walk in the straight paths that God has signified will bring them to confusion and will not teach wisdom to others who have the same test and trial. When will man learn that God is God, and not a man that He should change?  {18MR 35.2}
[18MR 35.3]          Some who have departed from the right way have been in a continual fever to grasp responsibilities that God has not laid upon them. God calls upon every minister and every physician to maintain the simplicity of the truth. The Son of God who is revealed in both the Old and New Testaments is the Saviour of our world today. From Him every medical missionary is to receive his training. Unless he shall separate himself from the prince of the power of the air, he will mislead souls who have confidence in him. Let all beware of men who are                                          -36-     so educated and uplifted that their plans cannot be understood by the common people.  {18MR 35.3}
[18MR 36.1]          The intrigues of sin surpass infinite conception. Every calamity, every suffering and death, is an evidence not only of the power of evil but of the truth of the living God. Having known the truth, the word of the living God, which abideth forever, and which through obedience gives life, man's weakness in conforming to Satan's ingenuity is surpassingly strange. All who are taught of God recognize Christ as His Son. All who disbelieve the known declarations of God demonstrate the popularity of sin, and are not working on the side of life and immortality which are brought to light through perfect sanctification of the truth. Unless they make a change in character, in words, and in spirit, souls will be lost.  {18MR 36.1}
[18MR 36.2]          There is no middle path to Paradise restored. The message given to man for these last days is not to become amalgamated with human devising. We are not to lean upon the policy of worldly lawyers. We must be humble men of prayer, not acting like those who are blinded by Satan's agencies.  {18MR 36.2}
[18MR 36.3]          Many have a faith, but not a faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Saving faith is not simply a mere belief of the truth. "The devils also believe, and tremble." The inspiration of the Spirit of God gives to men a faith that is an impelling power that molds character, and leads men higher than mere formal actions. The words, the actions, and the spirit are to bear testimony to the fact that we are followers of Christ.  {18MR 36.3}
[18MR 36.4]          The greatest light and blessing that God has bestowed is not a security against transgression and apostasy in these last days. Those whom God has exalted to high positions of trust may turn from heaven's light to human wisdom.                                          -37-     Their light will then become darkness, their God-entrusted capabilities a snare, their character an offense to God. God will not be mocked. A departure from Him has been and always will be followed by its sure results. The commission of acts that displease God will, unless decidedly repented of and forsaken, instead of seeking to justify them, lead the evildoer on step by step in deception till many sins are committed with impunity. All who would possess a character that would make them laborers together with God and receive the commendation of God, must separate themselves from the enemies of God, and maintain the truth which Christ gave to John to give to the world.  {18MR 36.4}
[18MR 37.1]          ［Revelation 1:10-20, quoted.］        The revelation of Christ to John is a wonderful, dignified, exalted, solemn message. To present this message with decided emphasis demands all the talents of capabilities that God has given to man. When John received it, he was worked by the Holy Spirit, for Christ Himself came from heaven and told him what to write.  {18MR 37.1}
[18MR 37.2]          Those who claim to be disciples of Christ often express hardness of heart and blindness of mind, because they do not choose and practice God's way instead of their own. Selfish motives come in and take possession of mind and character, and in their self-confidence they suppose their own way to be full of wisdom. They are not particular to follow the ways and words of God. Circumstances, they say, alter cases. Worldly policy comes in and they are tempted and drawn away. They move according to their own unsanctified desires, making crooked paths for their own feet and for the feet of others to tread in. The lame and weak suppose them to be led by God, and therefore think that their                                         -38-     judgment must be right. Thus many follow in false paths that are not cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in.  {18MR 37.2}
[18MR 38.1]          The leaders are responsible not only for their own unsanctified mistakes, but for the mistakes of those who follow their example. When reproved for bringing in wrong principles they manifest a perverse spirit, a spirit that will not be corrected or humbled. "Shall I not judge for these things, saith the Lord of hosts?" Their own wisdom and their own judgment they hold fast as a precious possession, and sullenly pursue their own ways. This is the reason that the Holy Spirit of God is not manifest in our churches.  {18MR 38.1}
[18MR 38.2]          If those who have had the blessings of being corrected would humble themselves before God, and gladly take the Lord's way, reforming their own ways, Jesus Christ would bestow upon them rich gifts and grant answers to humble, contrite prayers.  {18MR 38.2}
[18MR 38.3]          By walking in the light given, they would better understand their own individual character. Those who think they can improve upon God's plan, that some other course would be better than that which Christ has laid down in His Word, savor not the things that be of God, but those that be of men. They harden their hearts and close their eyes in regard to the ways of the Lord, and prefer their own ways. Unless these are transformed in every respect--in thought, in word, and in deed--they will be requested to take the lowest seat.  {18MR 38.3}
[18MR 38.4]          If men only knew that their own wisdom exercised without Christ is a dangerous element that will mislead! If those who occupy positions of trust would be benefited by the intercession of Christ, and receive the rich blessings of His commendation, if they would be owned of God in the judgment, they must hear His counsels and be governed by His will; they must hold their confidence                                          -39-     firm unto the end, never deviating from a plain "thus saith the Lord." Prevarication, even in the slightest shadow, must not be seen; every jot and tittle of this must be put away, because no falsehood can honor God.  {18MR 38.4}
[18MR 39.1]          There is no man who works in obedience to Christ's life in this world, who does all in Christ's name and to His glory, but will be honored. Those who hope to gain worldly recognition, who desire to be the highest in authority, and yet refuse to maintain Bible principles, principles of unselfish character in the service of God, however they may be exalted by those who themselves have not wisdom to obey God in keeping all His commandments, such exaltation and honor is of no value, for it is not recognized or endorsed in the heavenly courts. Seeking to stand as supreme in wisdom by securing the approval of men does not exalt them one tittle with God.  {18MR 39.1}
[18MR 39.2]          "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."  {18MR 39.2}
[18MR 39.3]          But few in our churches are true Christians. But few are bright and shining lights amid the moral darkness of this world. Were those who occupy positions as teachers worked by the Holy Spirit, Satan could not take possession of their hearts and minds.  {18MR 39.3}
[18MR 39.4]          We call for a decided, earnest seeking of God. Satan has come down in great power to our world, and is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish.  {18MR 39.4}
[18MR 39.5]          There is hope for our churches if they will heed the message given to the Laodiceans. Sabbath after Sabbath they meet together, and with effort sing the songs that are assigned, but that do not come from the heart. The joy of Christ                                           -40-     in the heart will make songs to come from inspired lips and warm, thankful hearts.  {18MR 39.5}
[18MR 40.1]          The Lord would be much better glorified if His people possessed the spirit of meekness and humility. Personal labor is needed in our churches. Men and women inspired with an evangelistic spirit should go forth and invigorate others with the hope of the gospel.  {18MR 40.1}
[18MR 40.2]          Let all our assemblies be stirred by the old heart-searching truths of the gospel. These truths will bring conviction to souls. Say to those assembled, "'When the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?' Be warned, be entreated to arise from lethargy, and remove this self-complacent spirit." When true faith is exercised, the Spirit of God will mold and fashion the soul that it may become a pure and holy place, a dwelling place for God. When Christ is "formed within, the hope of glory," a new life is imparted.  {18MR 40.2}
[18MR 40.3]          Satan is busily at work in our crowded cities. His working is to be seen in the confusion, the strife, and discord between labor and capital, and the hypocrisy that has come into the churches. That men may not take time to meditate, Satan leads them into a round of gaiety and pleasure-seeking, of eating and drinking. He fills them with ambition to make an exhibition that will exalt self. Step by step the world is reaching the conditions that existed in the days of Noah. Every conceivable crime is committed. 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. This round of crime and folly men call "life."                                           -41-  {18MR 40.3}
[18MR 41.1]          Death, eternal death, will soon be the portion of all who reject Christ. All heaven is looking on to see what is being done by those who know the truth. Many are in the condition that Christ speaks of as "neither cold nor hot." The works of such testify against them that they are not walking, and working, and praying, and teaching the word of life.  {18MR 41.1}
[18MR 41.2]          The world, who act as though there were no God, absorbed in selfish pursuits, will soon experience sudden destruction, and shall not escape. Many continue in the careless gratification of self until they become so disgusted with life that they kill themselves. Dancing and carousing, drinking and smoking, indulging their animal passions, they go as an ox to the slaughter. Satan is working with all his art and enchantments to keep men marching blindly onward, until the Lord arises out of His place to punish the inhabitants of earth for their iniquities, when the earth "shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain." The whole world appears to be in the march to death.  {18MR 41.2}
[18MR 41.3]          Will the message to the Laodicean church now be heeded? Christ represents Himself as being disgusted with the churches of today. He cannot endure their taste; but yet He offers for them a word of hope. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." Let every one heed the words that come to the people of God today, "Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." Shall we by confessing our sins, seek the Lord before the terrible spirit from beneath becomes the sole ruling power in our lives?--Ms 139, 1903.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Oct. 1, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 41.3}
[18MR 42.1]       MR No. 1306 - Workers Not to Disparage One Another; to Set a Right Example; Health Reform Important; Counsel on Public Speaking         (Written March 30, 1896, at "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, NSW, to Brother and Sister McCullagh.)  {18MR 42.1}
[18MR 42.2]          I have been glad to receive encouraging letters from you. I am anxious that in every respect both of you shall meet the approval of God. Bear in mind that in every place which you may visit, your influence needs to be strictly guarded.  {18MR 42.2}
[18MR 42.3]         From the light which God has given me, I see that you need to feel a pure, unselfish interest in your work. Unknown to yourselves, you have exerted an influence which has had a tendency to demerit your fellow laborers. Your words have created disaffection in the churches which you have visited, and you have given the impression that your ability was not appreciated.  {18MR 42.3}
[18MR 42.4]          By mentioning little things which others have done or said, by talking of that which was born of your own imaginings, you have cast suspicion upon others and gathered sympathy to yourselves. Your course of action should have been different from this; for seeds of this kind soon render your labor useless, and deprive the churches of the help which they should receive from the one who is appointed by the Lord to work among them.  {18MR 42.4}
[18MR 42.5]          The Lord has given you talents for His service, and He longs to see you reveal Him to others. You have an influence with people; your speaking is acceptable to them. But you need to give more time and more earnest study to the Bible. I have been shown that you have done too much preaching and have                                           -43-     given too little time to the study of the Word of God, which alone can make you an able and efficient workman. In your speaking you too often wander from the subject, not giving necessary clearness to a few vital points.  {18MR 42.5}
[18MR 43.1]          When you thus rapidly advance, touching here and there, not every thought stands out clearly and distinctly. Before your hearers can see the thought which is of essential importance, you pass on to something else. Because of this sufficient force is not given to each point. The power that would rivet the thoughts in the mind is wanting, and your hearers cannot carry away with them all that they might were the subject presented differently. They do not realize that they have heard the word of God, not the word of man.  {18MR 43.1}
[18MR 43.2]          You need to gather every ray of light that you can find upon the essential points of truth, and then when you are speaking, make the most of these points. Give them all the force you can by presenting them in a clear, concise manner, fastening down the evidence on these points like a nail in a sure place. Make a straight, clear application, and then call for a decision.  {18MR 43.2}
[18MR 43.3]          It is upon this point that Brother Starr makes a decided mistake. You have noticed this error in him, and remarked upon it, but you yourself have needed to reform. I hoped that you would improve the opportunity given the workers in Sydney to learn of these things, that you might present the evidences of our faith in a clear, connected manner, and also teach others to do this. You could have learned many valuable lessons from Elder Corliss on this point.  {18MR 43.3}
[18MR 43.4]          Elder Corliss is a man of power. He has a clear conception of vital truth, and has an influence over others. He was grieved that you did not receive the help in the study of the Bible that he thought you needed. He erred in feeling hurt that you did not manifest a deeper interest in the study of the Word of                                           -44-     God that was conducted in Sydney; but you erred also in withdrawing yourself from needed help. The Lord has not given you, or any other brother or sister, liberty to withdraw from the help and knowledge which Elder Corliss's long experience would have given you. You cannot be his judge; for you are finite, and cannot read the hearts of men.  {18MR 43.4}
[18MR 44.1]          I am sorry that Elder Corliss, by his impetuous spirit has weakened his influence with you and others. But this has not weakened his influence with me. I know that this hastiness of temper is his infirmity. He will always have to guard against this failing. But I rejoice to think that he has made such good use of the time and ability which God has given him. Had Elder Corliss made a tirade against me, whom he calls "Mother," I should have felt sorry because of the injury done to himself and to the cause of God; but I would not have turned away from him. He loves the truth, and the Lord loves him.  {18MR 44.1}
[18MR 44.2]          After these outbursts he feels sorry enough, and at such times he needs the grace of the Lord and the help of his brethren, that he may make decided efforts to overcome. "Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned; behold the judge standeth before the door." "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 space of three years and six months" ［James 5:9, 17］.  {18MR 44.2}
[18MR 44.3]          There is danger that much will be made of the supposed mistakes of Elder Corliss during the progress of the work in Sydney, and that this will be given as a reason for the failure of this effort. But if this is done, it will be doing Elder Corliss great injustice, for it is not true.                                           -45-  {18MR 44.3}
[18MR 45.1]          The hearts and minds of all the workers in Sydney needed to be purified, for the spirit evidenced by them grieved the Holy Spirit of God. Some were covetous, they desired promotion, they sought to be first; they were too ready to accuse their brethren of making mistakes, attributing the failure of the work to these mistakes. But God would have His workers lay down the burden of upholding and sustaining themselves lest they be not properly esteemed. Let them put their trust in the Lord God of Israel. He will keep them by His power, enabling them to do their appointed work acceptably.  {18MR 45.1}
[18MR 45.2]          All who are laborers together with God should regard the salvation of souls as their highest interest. Self must be hid in Christ. The conversation should not take a pitying, self-righteous turn, for when this is done, Christ is eclipsed and self is made prominent. We interpose ourselves between Christ and those whose Christian experience is weak and who need help in many lines. Under this influence, those whom we try to help will in their turn exert a wrong influence, and will hinder the spiritual advancement of other souls.  {18MR 45.2}
[18MR 45.3]          My brother, the Lord loves you, and I am aroused at two o'clock in the morning to write you these things which force themselves upon my mind. By your own choice you may place yourself under influences which will help you to form a character for the kingdom of God and make your work acceptable, or you may receive into your life that which will make your work a failure.  {18MR 45.3}
[18MR 45.4]          It is of the greatest importance that ministers and workers set a right example. If they hold and practice lax, loose principles, their example is quoted by those who love to talk rather than to practice, as a full vindication of their course of action. Every mistake that is made grieves the heart of Jesus and does injury to the influence of the truth, which is the power of God                                          -46-     for the salvation of souls. The whole synagogue of Satan watches for mistakes in the lives of those who are seeking to represent Christ, and the most is made of every defection.  {18MR 45.4}
[18MR 46.1]          Take heed lest by your example you place other souls in peril. It is a terrible thing to lose our own souls, but to pursue a course which will cause the loss of other souls, is still more terrible. That our influence should result in being a savor of death unto death is a terrible thought, and yet it is possible. With what holy jealousy, then, should we keep guard over our thoughts, our words, our habits, our dispositions, and our characters. God requires more deep personal holiness on our part. Only by revealing His character can we cooperate with Him in the work of saving souls.  {18MR 46.1}
[18MR 46.2]          The Lord's workers cannot be too careful that their actions do not contradict their words, for a consistent life alone can command respect. If our practice harmonizes with our teaching, our words will have effect; but a piety which is not based upon conscientious principles is as salt without a savor. To speak and do not, is as sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal. It is of no use for us to strive to inculcate principles which we do not conscientiously practice.  {18MR 46.2}
[18MR 46.3]          Watch unto prayer. In this way alone can you put your whole being into the Lord's work. Self must be put in the background. Those who make self prominent gain an education that soon becomes second nature to them, and they will soon fail to realize that instead of uplifting Jesus, they uplift themselves; instead of being channels through which the living water can flow to refresh others, they absorb the sympathies and affection of those around them. This is not loyalty to our crucified Lord.                                        -47-  {18MR 46.3}
[18MR 47.1]          We are ambassadors for Christ, and we are to live not to save our reputation but to save perishing souls from perdition. Our daily endeavor should be to show them how they may gain truth and righteousness. Instead of trying to elicit sympathy for ourselves by giving others the impression that we are not appreciated, we are to forget self entirely, and if we fail to do this, through want of spiritual discernment and vital piety, God will require at our hands the souls of those for whom we should have labored. He has made provision that every worker is His service may have grace and wisdom, that they may become living epistles, known and read of all men.  {18MR 47.1}
[18MR 47.2]          By watchfulness and prayer we may accomplish just what the Lord designs that we shall. By faithful, painstaking discharge of our duty, by watching for souls as they that must give account, we may remove every stumbling block out of the way of others. By earnest warnings and entreaties, with our own souls drawn out in tender solicitude for those that are ready to perish, we may win souls to Christ.  {18MR 47.2}
[18MR 47.3]          I would that all my brethren and sisters would remember that it is a serious thing to grieve the Holy Spirit; and it is grieved when the human agent seeks to work himself, and refuses to enter the service of the Lord because the cross is too heavy or the self-denial too great. 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; and holy thoughts, heavenly affections, and Christlike actions will take the place of impure thoughts, perverse sentiments, and rebellious acts.  {18MR 47.3}
[18MR 47.4]          The Holy Spirit is a divine Teacher. If we will heed its lessons, we shall become wise unto salvation. But we need to guard well our hearts; for too often                                          -48-     we forget the heavenly instruction we have received, and seek to act out the natural inclinations of our unconsecrated minds. Each one must fight his own battle against self. Heed the teachings of the Holy Spirit. If this is done, they will be repeated again and again until the impressions are as it were lead on the rock forever.  {18MR 47.4}
[18MR 48.1]          God has bought us, and He claims a throne in each heart. Our minds and bodies must be subordinated to Him; and the natural habits and appetites must be made subservient to the higher wants of the soul. But we can place no dependence upon ourselves in this work. We cannot with safety follow our own guidance. The Holy Spirit must renew and sanctify us. And in God's service there must be no halfway work. Those who profess to serve God and yet indulge their natural impulses will mislead other souls. Said Christ, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength." "This do, and thou shalt live."  {18MR 48.1}
[18MR 48.2]          "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. 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."  {18MR 48.2}
[18MR 48.3]          The Lord has given His people a message in regard to health reform. This light has been shining upon their pathway for thirty years, and the Lord cannot sustain His servants in a course which will counteract it. He is displeased when His servants act in opposition to the message upon this point, which He has                                         -49-     given them to give to others. Can He be pleased when half the workers laboring in a place teach that the principles of health reform are as closely allied with the third angel's message as the arm is to the body, while their co-workers, by their practice, teach principles that are entirely opposite? This is regarded as sin in the sight of God, and is one reason why He could not give greater success to the work in Sydney.  {18MR 48.3}
[18MR 49.1]          My brother, you must no longer disparage the messengers and the message God has sent you in regard to the principles of healthful living. Testimony after testimony has been given which should have brought about great reforms, but at home and abroad your life has been a decided witness against the warnings which the Lord has sent. And nothing brings such discouragement upon the Lord's watchmen as to be connected with those who have mental capacity, and who understand the reasons of our faith, but by precept and example manifest indifference to moral obligations.  {18MR 49.1}
[18MR 49.2]          The light which God has given upon health reform cannot be trifled with without injury to those who attempt it; and no man can hope to succeed in the work of God while by precept and example he acts in opposition to the light which God has sent. The voice of duty is the voice of God, an inborn, heaven-sent guide; and the Lord will not be trifled with upon these subjects. He who disregards the light which God has given in regard to the preservation of health revolts against his own good, and refuses to obey the One who is working for his best good.  {18MR 49.2}
[18MR 49.3]          It is the duty of every Christian to follow that course of action which the Lord has designated as right for His servants. He is ever to remember that God and eternity are before him, and he should not disregard his spiritual and                                           -50-     physical health even though tempted by wife, children, or relatives to do so. "If the Lord be God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him."  {18MR 49.3}
[18MR 50.1]          The principles of health reform, right or wrong, which are adopted by him who gives the Word of God to others, will have a molding influence upon his work, and upon those with whom he labors. If his principles are wrong, he can and will misrepresent the truth to others. If he accepts the truth which appeals to reason rather than to perverted appetite, his influence for the right will be decided. The truth will be in his heart as a well of water, springing up into everlasting life.  {18MR 50.1}
[18MR 50.2]          God's instruction is not "Yea and Nay," but "Yea and Amen" in Christ Jesus, and His workers are called upon to remember that they cannot drift along with unsettled principles which are warped and distorted by impulse, without misrepresenting the truth which they profess, and doing a lasting injury to their own souls.  {18MR 50.2}
[18MR 50.3]          My brother and sister, if you would be a savor of life unto life, it is essential that a change be made in your experience and in the experience of your child. Sister McCullagh's management in the home has not pleased the Lord; your daughter has not had proper training; she has not been brought up with the careful restraint that God requires. In the home and in the world the Lord God must occupy the first place. God must be enthroned in each heart. Every rival influence, be it husband, wife, or child, which would take the homage which rightly belongs to Him, must be given up. There must be no mismanagement on the part of the mother in the training of the child, for this example will do injury to other mothers and children.                                          -51-  {18MR 50.3}
[18MR 51.1]          Every true servant of God will guard closely the citadel of the soul, lest the things of earth steal his affections from God. God lays no burden upon His servants that they are not able to bear. "He knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust." "In the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength," and this strength he waits to bestow upon every asking soul.  {18MR 51.1}
[18MR 51.2]          It is a very easy thing to talk of the truth with the lips; but if the heart is not true and loyal to God and His requirements, our preaching does no good. This is Sister McCullagh's danger. She draws nigh to God with her lips, but her heart is far from Him. While professing the truth, she does not practice it. And her influence has done more to darken the mind and experience of Brother McCullagh than all other influences combined.  {18MR 51.2}
[18MR 51.3]          My brother, set your own home in order. If this is not done, you will be more trammeled by the wrong influence felt there than by any other power that can be brought against you. Day by day you are both determining what your soul shall live upon. Will you eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, which is His Word, or will you allow your future to be piloted by influences which are opposed to the truth of God, because the wishes of your natural heart are contrary to the principles given by God to His people?  {18MR 51.3}
[18MR 51.4]          From the light which was given me while in New Zealand, I must advise you to find a home for your wife and child where they may stay while you go out and labor among the people. It is not best that they accompany you where God may call you, for they do not add to your influence, but rather detract from it.  {18MR 51.4}
[18MR 51.5]          As soon as you decide where you wish to go, I will renew the offer which I made to you when you were in Cooranbong. I will help you to get a little home of your own, where your wife and child can be pleasantly located. They can have                                          -52-     a cow, some chickens, and a garden. This would not only be a blessing to them but to you; for you would have a place to which you could go when tired, where you could obtain rest and physical exercise. If this is done, your life may be long spared to do the work of the Lord.  {18MR 51.5}
[18MR 52.1]          I have written many things to you, but have withheld them, knowing that you were not in a condition to hear them. But I fear that you will never be where the Holy Spirit desires you should be unless you receive the testimony which the Lord has given you.  {18MR 52.1}
[18MR 52.2]          God would have you pure and free and happy. Put self out of sight, and keep the glory of God in view. Depend on God for enlightenment in regard to your spiritual growth. Do not neglect to look to Jesus, who is seeking to mold and fashion you after His image. If you will consent, He will lead you on till at length you reach perfection. He will renew you more and more till you are complete in Him. Never depart from your Leader. He alone can lead you in safe paths. He alone can heal all your wounds. In every time of need He will give you comfort and consolation. Will you trust in Him?  {18MR 52.2}
[18MR 52.3]          But if the Lord gives you success in winning souls to Him, never entertain the idea that your own hand has gotten you the victory. Give the praise and honor and glory to Him. And while you may speak the word of God with all fervor to the people, laboring for Christ's sake to save perishing souls, do not forget that you are to take care of yourself. Do not injure your vocal organs by rapid speaking. Educate yourself to speak slowly, using the abdominal muscles. Do not pitch your voice in a high key; for this strains the throat, and the Lord desires that you shall preserve your vocal organs.                                          -53-  {18MR 52.3}
[18MR 53.1]          I know, Brother McCullagh, that you have a very sensitive spirit. These plainly spoken words may displease you, but I offer no apology, for I have only done my duty in laying the truth before you. I write them in the fear of the Lord because I love you both. I have a deep interest in you, not because I think you are perfect, but because the Lord loves you and longs to see you revealing Him to the world.  {18MR 53.1}
[18MR 53.2]          Think me not your enemy because I tell you the truth; let not the words I have written discourage you, but let them restore, strengthen, and uphold you. I respect and love you both, and for this reason I entreat you to heed the message God has given me for you. Do not lightly esteem the voice of the Holy Spirit. God wants you to have liberty in Him, and by placing yourself in His hands you may abound in every good work, and represent Him to the world.  {18MR 53.2}
[18MR 53.3]         In much love, E. G. White.--Letter 67, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Letter.  {18MR 53.3}
[18MR 54.1]       MR No. 1307 - Talk Light, Not Darkness; Separate From Evildoers, and Do Not Strengthen Them         What Christ died to begin in redeeming man, He will carry out. Let us consider ［that］ we have not a Saviour dead in Joseph's new tomb, but a living Saviour, and all who will comply with the conditions prescribed and lay hold upon the help provided, will be overcomers. "Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."  {18MR 54.1}
[18MR 54.2]          We must not talk and think and magnify the power of Satan, but talk of the confidence we have in Jesus Christ. Let the love, the inexpressible love, of Jesus so be presented in our own minds and cherished that we can communicate it to the other minds, and clear away all their distrust, and lay hold of the riches of the grace of Christ, for we "are complete in Him." He has arisen, and over the rent sepulchre of Joseph He proclaims, "I am the resurrection and the life."  {18MR 54.2}
[18MR 54.3]         It was to make an inroad on the territory of Satan, and dispute his usurped authority, and reclaim the kingdom unto Himself, that Christ died. With the shout of a monarch who has clothed himself with zeal as a cloak, will He fight His antagonist, the prince of darkness, and win back the kingdom Satan claims as his own rightful dominion. And Christ will receive and pardon every rebel who returns to his allegiance, as a trophy of the might and glory of this wonderful plan of redemption. Light, light! We will talk light and not darkness any more. If you talk darkness, you will have darkness; if you talk light, you will have light.                                           -55-  {18MR 54.3}
[18MR 55.1]          This meeting bore the imprint of heaven. We were anxious to present, and to leave on every soul, ［the truth］ that feeling is no criterion of our advancement in spirituality. The Word of God must be studied and practiced, and it will be a solid rock under our feet. Some words were spoken by the inexperienced ones. They expected that Sister White would tell all of them of their faults, and in a manner that would strike terror to their souls. I told them that I had such a work to do as the Lord gave me. Some individual cases had been presented before them; but my work was to deal in general principles. I wish I could give more particulars, but my time is narrowing down to a point.  {18MR 55.1}
[18MR 55.2]          We have earnest work to do for the Master. I am so sorry that any of our people should sustain Dr. Burke by giving him their patronage. They should not place themselves in connection with any man that has pursued the course that he has done, whatever may be his calling or apparent success; for in thus doing they make themselves serve with his sins, and the Lord is not pleased with their course of action. The Lord's Spirit has been grieved by the unstable course pursued by some of those who profess to believe the truth. Is Dr. Burke on the Lord's side, or on the enemy's side? Is he working in harmony with the heavenly intelligences? Is he a laborer together with God? No! No!  {18MR 55.2}
[18MR 55.3]          When our people have so little discernment that they will strengthen the hands of him who lies and continues to do evil, they make themselves accountable for his evil course. God is not with him. In the judgment some things will be seen that men do not now discern; then will they be ashamed with linking up with such influences. (When) anyone has a burden of God in love to his soul to try to recover him from the snare of Satan, then they may do this and God will give them grace that they will not endanger their souls. But when men and                                          -56-     women will take the side of those who are working against the truth, the Lord will not keep them.  {18MR 55.3}
[18MR 56.1]          Those who walk through the world trampling upon the laws of God and righteousness, and ［those who］ link up and associate with them, will be partakers with their evil doings. Some will fabricate reasons for welcoming them, as inclination to cover their course of action; but it is not a necessity that God creates. "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 to you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." There is caution to be exercised. Now we cannot come into willing association and intercourse with the workers of evil unless we catch their spirit. They may appear as an angel of light and deceive the very elect; but none need in this particular to be deceived.  {18MR 56.1}
[18MR 56.2]          The words of Paul are appropriate in this case: "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness."--Ms 25, 1891.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {18MR 56.2}
[18MR 57.1]       MR No. 1308 - Christ is Coming Soon; Proclaim the Three Angel's Messages Do Not Sow Seeds of Discord                            (Written circa November, 1986)          A crisis has arrived in the government of God on earth. The enmity to God has struck its roots deep in human hearts. It has become widespread, both in the world and in the professed churches of Christ.  {18MR 57.1}
[18MR 57.2]          The world and the professed people of God are united by the all-pervading principle of aversion to God's government. Their opposition to the law of God is sufficient to bind them together, to bear together the burden of their accumulated guilt. Any indication of returning to loyalty and obedience to God is denounced as treachery against the confederacy of disloyalty. A wakeful impiety is quickened into an instinctive vigilance, and rouses to demonstration of hatred against the testing truth for this time. Whenever the truth shall be proclaimed, it will be opposed in a decided manner, for men possess the attributes which Jesus charged upon the Jews when He said, "Ye are of your father the devil," and "ye do the deeds of your father."  {18MR 57.2}
[18MR 57.3]         Everything has been moving on just as the Lord has revealed in prophecy that it would. Something great and decisive is soon to take place, else no flesh would be saved. The character of God will not be compromised. Under the wrath of God universal desolation will soon reach all parts of the known world. There have been lightnings and earthquakes, fires and floods, calamities by sea and by land; but who reads these warnings? What impression is made upon the world? What change in their attitude is seen?                                          -58-  {18MR 57.3}
[18MR 58.1]          No more than was seen in the inhabitants of the Noachic world. The people are just as ardent today in their games, in the horse racing, in their love of amusement, as were the antediluvians, who "knew not until the flood came, and took them all away." They had heaven-sent warnings, but refused to listen. By their attitude they declared, "We want not Thy way, O God; we want our own way, our own will."  {18MR 58.1}
[18MR 58.2]          Today the world is mad; an insanity is upon them, which is hurrying them on to eternal ruin. Every species of indulgence prevails, and men become so infatuated with vice that they will not listen to warnings or appeals. The Lord declares to the people of the earth, "Choose you this day whom ye will serve. All are now deciding their eternal destiny. Men need to be aroused to realize the solemnity of the time and the nearness of the day when human probation shall be ended.  {18MR 58.2}
[18MR 58.3]          God gives no man a message that it will be ten years or twenty years before this earth's history shall close. If it were forty or one hundred years, the Lord would not authorize men to proclaim it. 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 opportunities and privileges to prepare for that great day. Every soul who claims to be a servant of God is called to do his service as if every day might be the last.  {18MR 58.3}
[18MR 58.4]          Let all who would cooperate with God unite in proclaiming the present truth, the message of the third angel: "If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation, and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in                                           -59-     the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb; and the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever, and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name." Then the eyes of John rest upon God's people, and he exclaims, "Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus."  {18MR 58.4}
[18MR 59.1]          "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." Read the following verses, 16-20; also chapter 15. Let all these things be the subject of meditation.  {18MR 59.1}
[18MR 59.2]          The words of Christ have a direct application to this time. "Watch therefore; for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you. That he shall make him ruler over all his goods" ［Matthew 24:42-47］.  {18MR 59.2}
[18MR 59.3]          Then let everyone to whom the Lord has given light from His Word be sure                                         -60-     that he makes a right use of that light. Let him be guarded that he does not presume to feed the flock of God with food that is not appropriate for the time.  {18MR 59.3}
[18MR 60.1]          "Lift up your voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins." Talk of the speedy appearing of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Put not off that day. God has given no man light to say, "My Lord delayeth His coming." Let the inquiry be made, Shall I stand at the right hand or at the left hand of the Judge at that day? "Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness."  {18MR 60.1}
[18MR 60.2]          "But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, my lord delayeth his coming, and shall begin to smite his fellow servants"; how?--by his words, by expressing suspicion, by his evil thinking and evil speaking. It is thus that confidence is changed to doubt and unbelief--"and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of. And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."  {18MR 60.2}
[18MR 60.3]         It is essential that all shall know what atmosphere surrounds their own souls, whether they are in copartnership with the enemy of righteousness, and unconsciously doing his work, or whether they are linked up with Christ, doing His work, and seeking to establish souls more firmly in the truth.  {18MR 60.3}
[18MR 60.4]          Satan would be pleased to have anyone and everyone become his allies to weaken the confidence of brother in brother, and to sow discord among those who profess to believe the truth. Satan can accomplish his purposes most successfully through professed friends of Christ who are not walking and working in Christ's lines. Those who in mind and heart are turning away from the Lord's                                          -61-     special work for this time, those who do not cooperate with Him in establishing souls in the faith by leading them to heed His words of warning, are doing the work of the enemy of Christ.  {18MR 60.4}
[18MR 61.1]          It is a most serious matter to go from house to house, and under pretense of doing missionary work, cast in the seed of mistrust and suspicion. Each one speedily germinates, and there is created a distrust of God's servants who have His message to bear to the people. When God speaks through His servants, the seed ［of mistrust and suspicion］ sown has developed into a root of bitterness. The word falls upon hearts that will not hear, on hearts that will not respond. No earthly or heavenly power can find access to the soul.  {18MR 61.1}
[18MR 61.2]          Who is accountable for these souls? Who shall eradicate the poisonous root of bitterness that has prevented them from receiving the word of the Lord? A good sister or a brother planted the evil seed, but how can that one restore the soul thus imperiled? The tongue that should have been used to the glory of God in speaking words of hope and faith and confidence in God's workmen has turned away a soul from Jesus Christ. Those who themselves despised the words of Christ, and refused to hear His voice and to be converted, have leavened other minds with the leaven of evil surmisings and evil speaking.  {18MR 61.2}
[18MR 61.3]          This is the day of the Lord's preparation. We have no time now to talk unbelief and to gossip, no time now to do the devil's work. Let everyone beware of unsettling the faith of others by sowing seeds of envy, jealousy, disunion; for God hears the words, and judges, not by assertions, which are yea and nay, but by the fruit one's course of action produces. "By their fruits ye shall know them." The seed sown will determine the character of the harvest.  {18MR 61.3}
[18MR 61.4]          So long as the people of God are in this world they will have to meet conflict and trouble and deception, because men choose the attributes of Satan                                            -62-     instead of the attributes of God. There is a conscience that is not good. There are those whose words are "yea" and "nay" in regard to the same thing. How are we to deal with those who make these false statements? We should not try to deal with them. The Lord God of Israel will deal with minds according to His knowledge, for He reads the heart. The less we have to do with untruthful elements the better it will be for the church.  {18MR 61.4}
[18MR 62.1]          Bear in mind always that the human brotherhood are not sin-bearers. Jesus alone can bear the sins of the transgressor. We are to leave them with Him. The conscience needs to be converted. The heart that is not true needs to be renewed, but we cannot do this work. We must leave the sinner with God. He has borne long with the false tongue. He does not force men to forsake evil, and we must let men falsify if they will. The Lord is our only trust. We are to rest in Him, and be still.  {18MR 62.1}
[18MR 62.2]          We may feel that the Lord's work is in jeopardy through the deceptions of those who deal falsely, but we should not feel thus. We are not to think that the issue of the conflict is in our hands. There will be a glorious victory. Our duty is to walk by faith. In His own time God will deal with the deceiver, and He will reward every man according to his work.  {18MR 62.2}
[18MR 62.3]          Jesus says, "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］. Here is the great burden to be carried away by every individual. Are my sins forgiven? Has Christ, the Burden-bearer, taken away my guilt? Have I a clean heart, the righteousness of Jesus Christ, by faith? Woe be to any soul who is not seeking a refuge in Christ, and conforming the character to the character of Christ. Woe be ［to］ all who shall in anywise divert the mind from this work, and cause any soul to be less vigilant now.                                          -63-  {18MR 62.3}
[18MR 63.1]          The Lord wants all to understand His providential dealings now, just now, in the time in which we live. There must be no long discussions presenting new theories in regard to prophecies which God has already made plain. Now the great work from which the mind should not be diverted is the consideration of our personal safety in the sight of God. Are our feet on the Rock of ages? Are we hiding ourselves in our only Refuge? The storm is coming, relentless in its fury. Are we prepared to meet it? Are we one with Christ as He is one with the Father? Are we heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ? Are we working in copartnership with Christ?  {18MR 63.1}
[18MR 63.2]          Already kingdom is rising against kingdom. There is not now a determined engagement. As yet the four winds are held until the servants of our God shall be sealed in their foreheads. Then the power of earth will marshal their forces for the last great battle. How carefully should we improve the little remaining period of our probation. How earnestly should we examine ourselves. How ［earnestly］ should we consider and cherish faith before God. How ［earnestly］ should we eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, that is, carefully study the Word, eat it, digest it, make it a part of our being. We are to live the Word, not keep it apart from our lives. The character of Christ is to be our individual character. We are to be transformed by the renewing of our hearts. Here is our only safety. Nothing can prevail to separate a living Christian from God.  {18MR 63.2}
[18MR 63.3]          It is discipline of spirit, cleanness of heart and thought, that is wanted. This is of more value than brilliant talent, than tact or knowledge. An ordinary mind, trained to obey a "Thus saith the Lord," is better qualified for the Lord's work in all circumstances than are those who have capabilities and do                                          -64-     not employ them rightly. Christ is truth. He is the truth of ancient types. He is the truth because he is the fulfillment of ancient prophecies.  {18MR 63.3}
[18MR 64.1]          Men may suppose that they shall be saved, and yet they perish. They may take pride in great knowledge in worldly things, but if they have not a knowledge of the true God, of Christ, the Way, the Truth, the Life, they are deplorably ignorant, and their acquired knowledge will perish with them. Secular knowledge is power; but the knowledge of the Word, which has a transforming power upon the human mind, is imperishable; it is knowledge sanctified. It is life and peace and joy forever. The deeper knowledge men may have, sanctified wholly unto God, the more they will appreciate the value of Jesus Christ.--Ms 32a, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {18MR 64.1}
[18MR 65.1]       MR No. 1309 - All Kinds of Workers Needed; Leaders To Be Understanding And Charitable Toward Fellow Workers; Women Workers To Be Paid            (Written Oct. 24, 1899, from "Sunnyside, "Cooranbong, N.S.W.)          I was instructed in America (and have been instructed since coming to this country), that there would be many things to be adjusted in regard to the settlement of accounts in America and Australia. There are those who are so constituted that they should not be placed where they will have to deal with other minds as one in charge. They have traits of character that would place their brethren in difficult positions. Thus pain and suffering would be caused when there was no need of it. They would exercise an arbitrary authority, and manifest an overbearing spirit that would imperil the souls of their fellow men. They lack judgement in dealing with their brethren, and a great positiveness takes possession of them. They do not treat their brethren as they would wish to be treated were they in similar circumstances. They forget that Christian courtesy, forbearance, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, pity, and love are to be exercised. "All ye are brethren." There is need of the Spirit of the Master.  {18MR 65.1}
[18MR 65.2]          I wish to present some matters to those laboring in New Zealand. There is need of a clearer light in regard to dealing with brethren. Not all minds are constituted alike, and we may thank God that this is the case. Each person is at liberty to freely state his convictions, and there is to be no lording it over the children of God. No man is to take another man's mind and mold it over to meet his mind and his ideas; for the molding might be for worse instead of for better.                                          -66-  {18MR 65.2}
[18MR 66.1]         When one of those whom the Lord has chosen shows blindness of mind and makes mistakes, let his brethren remember that they also have made mistakes. Their way has not been perfect before God. Let them show the Spirit and mind of Christ.  {18MR 66.1}
[18MR 66.2]          When a man takes control of any other man's conscience, he is entirely out of his place. The Lord has not delegated to any man the work of ruling his brother. There are times when workers pass through strait places. They are depressed. They want to do the will of God, and they long to clasp a friendly hand. Brethren differ in ideas; for their temperaments are unlike. One is more speculative then practical; another thinks his position gives him authority to say what the next man should and must do, without any argument on the point. "All ye are brethren." Let each resolve that he will not, under any provocation, show a cheapness and littleness of spirit, that he will speak no words in bitterness.  {18MR 66.2}
[18MR 66.3]          Under the working of the Spirit, the disciples were made of one heart and one mind. But today different opinions are entertained in regard to the value of the work done. One estimates his work as of the most value. Another supposes his own work to be far more valuable than that of his brother. But men cannot judge one another's work. The Lord alone understands the heart. It is the motive which decides the value of the action. Let all cease to measure the work of other men by their own standard.  {18MR 66.3}
[18MR 66.4]         Women, as well as men, are needed in the work that must be done. Those women who give themselves to the service of the Lord, who labor for the salvation of others by doing house-to-house work, which is as taxing as and more taxing, than standing before a congregation, should receive payment for their labor. If a man is worthy of his hire, so also is a woman.                                           -67-  {18MR 66.4}
[18MR 67.1]          God has entrusted talents to His servants, and He expects them to see that mistakes can be readily made. Make no mistake in neglecting to correct the error of giving ministers less than they should receive. When you see persons in necessity who have been placed in positions of trust, let God move upon your heart to set things right. The tithe should go to those who labor in word and doctrine, be they men or women.  {18MR 67.1}
[18MR 67.2]          It is not right to leave persons unacknowledged who are doing a good work because they do not work just exactly in accordance with other men's ideas. It is not right for men to fold their hands in quietude, and see injustice done to any in the Lord's work. There is an open field for industry in cultivating the talents lent by God for the accomplishment of His work. Those whom men call strong are not to be allowed to oppress in the least a brother who is thought not to have the merits of the stronger. God says of those who are pushed and crowded, "If they cry unto Me in their distress, I will hear their cry, and deliver them." There is no reward for cowardice, no reward for oppression, for partiality in God's service.  {18MR 67.2}
[18MR 67.3]          Some receive credit for that which they have not done. Others are demerited for doing that which is just and right. There is a prudence which is stretched beyond measure, which shuns the work of lifting up and vindicating those who are wronged. But principle is to be maintained. Over and over again the persons misjudged are to be vindicated. Shortsighted ambition requires brick without straw, but God would have His work done with all careful regard for one another's feelings. A false estimate may be placed upon the work of a favored few, who have facilities, conveniences, and influence, but who have not obtained these favors by patient labor, practical self-denial, and cross-bearing.                                          -68-  {18MR 67.3}
[18MR 68.1]         God wants men of clear discernment, men whose eyes have been anointed with the golden oil from the golden tubes, which empty themselves, according to the order of God, into the vessels prepared for the reception of the sacred oil. Talent is best developed where it is most needed. At this time in our history God has a place for every worker, and reward will be given to those who have respect for the laws of demand and supply. Every pure, sincere worker sees that there is something better than mere wages.  {18MR 68.1}
[18MR 68.2]          I cannot at this time say all that might be said on this point. There is to be no criticism upon such things as are mentioned in Brother Mountain's letter. I see nothing at all to condemn in the action of Brother Hickox on the points referred to. Enough of this kind of work has had a natural growth in New Zealand, and it needs now to be weeded out by the roots.  {18MR 68.2}
[18MR 68.3]          God help us to have an education in the line of thinking no evil and speaking no evil, to watch closely every tendency of the human heart, that it may be softened and subdued, and bear the fruit of kindness, love, patience, and longsuffering. Oh, that we all might look to Jesus, and say, "Thy gentleness hath made me great." We want to be above all disposition to carp, to make the service of God disagreeable because of human ideas and suppositions. God is too wise to err, too good to do us harm.  {18MR 68.3}
[18MR 68.4]          When a man is having a hard time on every side, heaven beholds with pleasure the one who, moved by the spirit of infinite love, takes hold of him with a firm hand, and lifts him up that his feet may not slide. Workers are few, and are too much needed to be turned into rebels because of things which are interpreted to be not exactly straight. We may criticize ourselves and humble ourselves and have a humble opinion of our own merits, but God save us                                              -69-     from educating ourselves to pass judgment and act out our own ideas in regard to others.  {18MR 68.4}
[18MR 69.1]          The fields are spread out all around us, and any man who has a desire to do service for Christ need not remain where his efforts are misinterpreted. We need money badly enough, but not enough to hurt souls in order to obtain it; for this God cannot approve. The Macedonian cry is heard from every quarter, Send us laborers. We want sound men. --Ms 149, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Manuscript.  {18MR 69.1}
[18MR 70.1]       MR No. 1310 - Christ and the Law         By the crucifixion of Christ the immutability of the law of God was forever established. He was the Son of God, and had it been possible, God would have changed the law to meet man in his fallen state. But the law of God is unalterable, and the only way that man could be saved was for a Substitute to be provided, who would bear the penalty of transgression, and thus give man an opportunity to return to his loyalty.  {18MR 70.1}
[18MR 70.2]          Behold the spectators who reviled Christ while He hung on the cross. Were they the abandoned class, the heathen who knew not God? "And they that passed by reviled Him, wagging their heads, and saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save Thyself. If Thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross. Likewise also the chief priests mocking Him, with the scribes and elders, said, He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He be the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him. He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now, if He will have Him: for He said, I am the Son of God" ［Matthew 27:39-43］.  {18MR 70.2}
[18MR 70.3]          The principalities and powers of darkness were assembled round the throne, engaged in casting the hellish shadow of unbelief into mind and heart. This was the work in which they were engaged. When the Lord created these beings to stand before His throne, they were beautiful and glorious. Their loveliness and holiness were equal to their exalted station. They were enriched with the wisdom of God, and girded with the panoply of heaven. They were Jehovah's                                          -71-     ministers. But who could recognize in the fallen angels the glorious seraphims that once ministered in the heavenly courts?  {18MR 70.3}
[18MR 71.1]          The arch-apostate, who still retained his lofty stature, led the apostate host, who were leagued with human beings in the strife against God. Satanic agencies confederated with evil men to lead the people to believe that Christ was the chief of sinners, and to make Him an object of detestation. But the priests and rulers failed to realize that in Christ divinity was enthroned in humanity. The humanity of Christ could not be separated from His divinity.  {18MR 71.1}
[18MR 71.2]          Hanging on the cross, the Son of God bore the insults of Satan and his agencies. Those that Christ had declared were whited sepulchers, who deceived the people by an outward appearance of sanctity, were now reviling One who came from heaven to save a perishing world, and in whose heart a zeal for right and justice and for the glory of God was the highest object. Those who chose Barabbas, thus yoking up with Satan, gave evidence that a profession of piety and of love for God, and a claim to know the Scriptures, neither made them the sons of God nor led them to represent His character. To those who had true religion--and there were such among the spectators--it must indeed have appeared as if Satan were linked up with the men triumphantly shouting in blasphemy against One who was Commander of all heaven.  {18MR 71.2}
[18MR 71.3]          Heavenly angels were not far away. They heard the mocking taunts and saw the wagging of heads. Gladly would they have broken their ranks and gone to the Son of God in His humiliation and bodily anguish, but this they were not permitted to do. It must be demonstrated before the universe what men will do when under the control of Satan. "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same, that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil."                                         -72-  {18MR 71.3}
[18MR 72.1]          Obedience to every word that proceeds from the mouth of God is required. Had Christ conceded one jot or tittle of this, the hostility of Satan and his army would not have burst upon Him with irrepressible fury. He was able to perform marvelous works, and had He but allowed some license to sin, had He permitted evil passions to go unrebuked, men would have given Him their homage. But He rebuked all sin and hypocrisy, and they said, He is an impostor. Satan and his angels united with the priests and rulers in mocking and deriding the Son of God. Thus were the words fulfilled. "Thou shalt bruise His heel."  {18MR 72.1}
[18MR 72.2]          By those who mocked Christ as He hung on the cross, Satan and his angels were personified. He filled them with vile and loathsome speeches. He inspired their taunts. But by all this he gained nothing. He was permitted to bruise Christ's heel, but Christ was bruising his head. By working through the priests against Christ, Satan was effecting his own discomfiture and downfall.  {18MR 72.2}
[18MR 72.3]          Could one sin have been found in Christ, the world would have been plunged into blackness and ruin. If Satan could have so bruised Christ's heel that He would have yielded to the physical torture, his triumph would have been complete. He could have shouted victory. The world would have been his kingdom. But Satan could only cause pain. He could not touch Christ's head unless Christ proved false to God.  {18MR 72.3}
[18MR 72.4]          As the prince of darkness inspired the priests to join the rebellion against the will of God, so he will again inspire men. He will persuade them to apostatize from the service of God, and make their religion as a weapon with which to fight against God. They may profess great zeal in God's service, but, poor souls, they are serving the prince of darkness, and as their general, Satan leads them.                                         -73-  {18MR 72.4}
[18MR 73.1]          "And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is being interpreted, My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" The wrath of God fell upon Christ. This was the hiding of the Father's countenance. Though innocent, Christ was treated as a sinner, that through His merits sinners, though guilty, might be treated as the loyal and obedient children of God. Christ died with the sins of the world imputed to Him, that His righteousness might be imputed to the sinner. When the sense of the loss of His Father's favor was withdrawn, Christ had drained the last dregs in the cup of bitterness.  {18MR 73.1}
[18MR 73.2]          "Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to His mouth. When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, He said, It is finished." There was a shriek, shrill and agonizing, and the Son of God expired. He died of a broken heart. When the spear was thrust into His side, there flowed forth blood and water. His heart was broken by His mental agony. The hearts of those who seek the Lord and find Him will be broken as they see the result of sin.  {18MR 73.2}
[18MR 73.3]          What great and wonderful effects have come from the crucifixion of Christ! What a view of the character of God ［and］ His sacrifice has opened to the universe! His love for man, far surpassing all human love, has lifted the law of God to its own eternal dignity. The attributes of God have been revealed, and the holy requirements of His law have been vindicated. The effects of the sacrifice on the cross are still felt; but all who would be saved must themselves have an interest in the crucified One.  {18MR 73.3}
[18MR 73.4]          In His great suffering, Christ felt no pang of bitterness against His persecutors. He felt no remorse for His own sins ［for He had none］, but for the sins of the fallen race. Those who refuse the gift of Christ will one day feel                                        -74-     the sting of remorse. Entire obedience to the law of God is the condition of salvation. Those who refuse this, who refuse to accept Christ, will become embittered against God. When punished for transgression, they will feel remorse, despair, and hatred. This will be the experience of all who do not enter into Christ's sufferings. It is the sure consequence of sin.  {18MR 73.4}
[18MR 74.1]          We read of chains of darkness for the transgressor of God's law. We read of the worm that dieth not and of the fire that is not quenched. Thus is represented the experience of everyone that has permitted himself to be grafted into the stalk of Satan, who has cherished sinful attributes. When too late he will see that sin is the transgression of God's law. He will realize that because of transgression, his soul is cut off from God, and that God's wrath abides upon him. This is fire unquenchable. Thus the soul and body of every unrepentant sinner will be destroyed. Satan, the first transgressor, strives constantly to lead men into sin, and he who is willing to be led, who refuses to forsake his sins and receive forgiveness and grace unto salvation, will suffer the results of his course.  {18MR 74.1}
[18MR 74.2]          Charged with an embassage of mercy, love, and pardon, Christ came to His own, but His own received Him not. He was buffeted by temptation, and bruised and lacerated by the cruel lash. He was crowned with thorns, and His hands and feet pierced by nails. In His dying agony on the cross He was scorned by the people who claimed to be waiting for the Messiah, but who by their actions showed the value of their spirituality. Surely Christ has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows. Surely He was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities. But did not Satan understand that while he was bruising the heel of the Son of God, the Son of God was bruising his head?                                         -75-  {18MR 74.2}
[18MR 75.1]         By dying on the cross Christ gave His life as an offering for sin, that through His power man might turn from his sins, become converted, and be a laborer together with God. Greater love than this can never be shown. More could not be done than has been done to demonstrate the immutability of the law of God. Christ did not die to abolish the law or to detract in the slightest degree from its influence or power. He died to exalt the law and make it honorable. Full of goodness, compassion, and love, He hated only one thing--sin, "the transgression of the law." In the very act of dying to save that which was lost, Christ reached the perfect standard of obedience as our Substitute and Surety. His death exemplified the curse of sin.  {18MR 75.1}
[18MR 75.2]          "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul." Obedience to this law is required; for it is the transcript of the character of God. Obedience is the proof of love. "If ye love Me," Christ said, "keep My commandments." In order to escape from obedience to the moral law, the teachers of today deceive poor, bewildered souls by saying that Christ's commandments and the precepts of the moral law are not the same thing. But this is not so.  {18MR 75.2}
[18MR 75.3]          "He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him. . . . If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and we will come unto him and make our abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings, and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father's which sent Me" ［John 14:21, 23, 24］. This is the truth in regard to the plan of salvation. No other foundation can be laid than that which is laid.  {18MR 75.3}
[18MR 75.4]          While enduring the contradiction of sinners against Himself, Christ bore insult, abuse, and mockery. This was part of the great plan. The result of                                          -76-     Satan's working through professedly pious men must be shown. No pang of anguish that Christ endured was in vain. Thus the ransom was paid for all who accept Christ as their personal Saviour. From the Word of God they receive their title to freedom. "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 kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ" ［1 Peter 1:10, 11］.  {18MR 75.4}
[18MR 76.1]          If we obey the commandments of God, we receive our emancipation from sin. "Whatsoever we ask of Him, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. And this is His commandment, That we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as He gave us commandment. And he that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him. And hereby we know that He abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us" ［1 John 3:22-24］.  {18MR 76.1}
[18MR 76.2]          "If Christ be not risen," wrote the apostle Paul, "Then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ: whom He raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: and if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain: ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished" ［1 Corinthians 15:14-18］. "And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus" ［Acts 4:33］.  {18MR 76.2}
[18MR 76.3]          The Roman guard saw the resurrection of Christ, and testified to it. John's testimony in regard to the life, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Christ is clear and forcible. After Christ had ascended, John's testimony concerning Christ disturbed those in power. With power he bore witness that                                           -77-     Christ was a risen Saviour. To please the Jews the Romans had crucified Christ, and now they sought still further to please them by placing John where his voice would not be heard by Jew or Gentile. He was banished to the Isle of Patmos.  {18MR 76.3}
[18MR 77.1]          Apparently the Lord permitted his enemies to triumph, as far as outward appearance was concerned. But God's hand was moving unseen in the darkness. He permitted His faithful servant to be placed where Christ could give him a more wonderful revelation of Himself to give to the world. The Lord was preparing John to endure hatred and scorn for the sake of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. He was hidden as it were on a desert island, and here Christ visited him, giving him a most wonderful view of His glory, and making known to him what was to come upon the earth. The man who exiled John was not released from his responsibility. He was the instrument used by Jehovah to carry out His eternal purpose, and the very effort to extinguish the light, placed the truth in bold relief.  {18MR 77.1}
[18MR 77.2]          John was deprived of the society of his brethren and of the pleasure of association. But no man could deprive him of the light and revelation of Christ. A great light was to shine from Christ to His servant. Richly favored was this beloved disciple. With the other disciples he had traveled with Jesus, learning of Him and feasting on His word. His head had often rested on his Saviour's bosom. But he must see Him also in Patmos. On the holy Sabbath day, the risen Saviour made His presence known to John; and the testimony then given him is given also to us. God would have us search the Scriptures, that we may know what will be in the last days of this earth's history.  {18MR 77.2}
[18MR 77.3]          ［Revelation 1:4-7, 10-13, 17, 18, quoted.］                                        -78-  {18MR 77.3}
[18MR 78.1]          This is a most powerful testimony, but its true significance is but dimly discerned. Let the student of Scripture carefully ponder every word in the first chapter of Revelation, for every sentence and every word is of weight and consequence.  {18MR 78.1}
[18MR 78.2]          The appearance of Christ to John should be to all, believers and unbelievers, an evidence that we have a risen Christ. It should give living power to the church. At times dark clouds surround God's people. It seems as though oppression and persecution would extinguish them. But at such times the most instructive lessons are given. As in the darkest night the stars shine the brightest, so the most brilliant beams of God's glory are revealed in the deepest gloom. The darker the sky, the more clear and impressive are the beams of the Sun of Righteousness, the risen Saviour. Christ often enters prisons, and reveals Himself to His chosen ones. He is in the fire with them at the stake.  {18MR 78.2}
[18MR 78.3]          The Lord has wonderful truth to make known through human instrumentalities. He permits those who turn from light and despise His warnings to show on which side they stand by oppressing His people. This will not destroy God's servants if they will hold fast to their faith. It will keep them contrite and humble, preventing them from being exalted above measure by the abundance of light given them.--Ms 106, 1897.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 78.3}
[18MR 79.1]       MR No. 1311 - An Appeal To Be Converted Fully to Christ, Enjoy His Love, and Be a Help to Others         (Written September 18, 1901, from Healdsburg, California, to "Dear Brother and Sister Sanderson.")  {18MR 79.1}
[18MR 79.2]          Your letters have been received and carefully read. I will now write a few lines in reply. I thank you for writing, for your letters have taken a heavy weight off my heart. I greatly desire that you shall both so will and so do that God will be honored and glorified by your service in the sanitarium. I know that changes must be made, and we shall help you in every way possible.  {18MR 79.2}
[18MR 79.3]         I felt like weeping when I read Sister Sanderson's letter. I thank the Lord, my sister, that you are resolved to open your heart to the Saviour. I would not speak one word to discourage you. I will try to help you in every way that I can. My heart is drawn out to pray for you, not to depress you. My prayer is, "Lord, increase Sister Sanderson's faith. Let the operation of the Holy Spirit be felt on her mind. Take her into a sacred nearness to Thine heart of infinite love."  {18MR 79.3}
[18MR 79.4]          God alone can lead you to so recognize His mercy, love, and forbearance that you will have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. This is the gift of God. It is the opening of the heart to receive the Word which is as the leaves of the tree of life. May God fill your heart with His love so that it may be said that you, my sister, have purified your soul by obeying the truth. Believing in Christ and receiving His transforming grace is not guesswork, but a work which causes Christ's virtues to be reflected in mind and                                         -80-     character. When you gain this experience you will say, "I have tasted and seen that the Lord is good. The Lord Jesus shall be my portion forever."  {18MR 79.4}
[18MR 80.1]          The power of the cross will move in you the mysterious springs of hope and fear, adoration and love. Angels are watching and waiting and will witness to the fact that the world has you not. Jesus has found you sitting at His feet to learn from Him, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Henceforth, surrendering your will to the will of Christ, you are drawn into a region where the cross is the central object. The world fades from your view. The glory shining from the threshold of heaven is the all-attractive influence. The riches of the grace of Christ hold you in willing obedience. You delight in the precious blessings of your allegiance. You are only too glad to impart to others the gift you have received.  {18MR 80.1}
[18MR 80.2]          I long to see you improving the capabilities given you by God so that you can respond to the inquiry, "What must I do to be saved?" Let the words fall from sanctified lips, "Be saved by accepting Christ by faith as your personal Saviour." God is love. The sinner need not perish if he will exercise faith in the wonderful efficacy of the cross of Christ. The cross is the stupendous expedient by which is harmonized the love and justice of God. It is the sinner's only means of salvation.  {18MR 80.2}
[18MR 80.3]          "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." The image of His love may be so stamped upon the mind that it can never be effaced. Then Jesus Christ will be so evidently set forth crucified before you that you will be a partaker of the dignity of His suffering. I have such an intense longing that you may look into the heart of this great mystery and find that its interpretation is Love.        ［1 John 2:24-29, quoted.］                                          -81-  {18MR 80.3}
[18MR 81.1]          I want to see Sister Sanderson standing on vantage ground as one who has spiritual dominion over the powers of darkness. Cultivate love. ［1 John 4:7-14;  5:2-5, quoted.］  {18MR 81.1}
[18MR 81.2]          Sister Sanderson, I am pleading with God for your soul's salvation. I feel an intense desire to see you free and happy in Christ Jesus, your heart full of the grace of God. I cannot endure the thought that you shall remain where you are. I cannot let you go. I long for your soul in Jesus Christ. I want to see you obtaining victory after victory. I have been conversing with you in the visions of the night. I saw your countenance changed by the reflection of the Spirit of God, and I was made joyful in the Lord.  {18MR 81.2}
[18MR 81.3]          What you expressed in your letter gave me hope and courage to believe that you will be truly converted and be a help to your husband. Your letter was an encouragement to me, and though the enemy may tell you that I do not care for you, do not believe him. I do care for your soul. I have spoken plainly to you by letter because I wished to tell you the truth and arouse you to make the determined effort you can make if you will. I want to see you and your husband free in God right here in the sanitarium. Then you will not move under false impressions.  {18MR 81.3}
[18MR 81.4]          Never was there a time in your experience when you were so much in need of a wholehearted conversion as you are now. You have not yet sufficiently touched the vital springs of happiness. When you know your Saviour, when you realize that He is precious to your soul, you will have found your way to the wellspring of life and will be able to rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.  {18MR 81.4}
[18MR 81.5]          Let your mind come fully and habitually under the belief that Christ loves you. As you make a full surrender of your will to God's will, your way to God's way, you will learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart, and will find rest                                          -82-     unto your soul. (Matthew 11:29). A calm confidence will preside over you. Your heart will possess a dignity to which before it was a stranger. You will experience more and more clearly the sense of an ever-present, all-pervading Saviour. This will give the soul power to hold its stability, power which the changing circumstances of earth cannot undermine. It plants the feet upon a solid rock.  {18MR 81.5}
[18MR 82.1]          Then you can sing with the spirit and with the understanding also. Under all discouraging circumstances your heart will rejoice in your Saviour. You will find opportunity to speak words of hope to the weary and the desponding.  {18MR 82.1}
[18MR 82.2]          When you are converted you can give instruction to many disheartened souls. As you contemplate God and heaven, you will love to minister, and you will feel a sacred, solemn awe as you realize that you are ministering in connection with the hand of God, which opens only to do good.--Letter 123, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Letter.  {18MR 82.2}
[18MR 83.1]       MR No. 1312 - Miscellaneous Writings on Christ's Ministry, Health Reform, and the Christian Life         The Sermon on the Mount. Often before break of day, while the disciples were still sleeping, Christ arose to meditate and pray. He refreshed His spiritual strength by communion with God. On the morning of the day when He delivered the Sermon on the Mount, He was on the shores of Lake Gennesaret, near Capernaum. Long before daybreak He was engaged in meditation and prayer.  {18MR 83.1}
[18MR 83.2]          Although Christ loved retirement, He could not remain alone very long at a time. As soon as it was day, many people could be seen hastening to the lakeside. Why were they going there so early in the morning? They had learned where Jesus was. They were anxious to hear the word of truth.  {18MR 83.2}
[18MR 83.3]         Health Reform. Seventh-day Adventists are handling momentous truths. On the subject of temperance they should be in advance of any other people.  {18MR 83.3}
[18MR 83.4]          None can be fully aroused to see the evils resulting from an improper diet, until they have an intelligent understanding of the principles of health reform. And even if, after seeing their mistakes, they have courage to change their habits, they will find that the reformatory process requires a struggle and much perseverance. But when correct tastes are formed, men will realize that the articles of food concerning which they once said, "Oh, those things do not hurt me," were establishing in the stomach a condition that was laying the foundation for dyspepsia and other diseases.  {18MR 83.4}
[18MR 83.5]          Parents, in giving food to children, should use good, common sense. It is usually in the early years that the appetite is perverted. Children fail on the                                          -84-     same point on which Adam and Eve failed in Eden. Many have educated their taste to relish certain foods that are injurious and that cannot make the best quality of blood.  {18MR 83.5}
[18MR 84.1]          Too great a variety of food at one meal causes a disturbance in the digestive organs. Weakly children who eat vegetables and fruit at the same meal often become fretful and peevish. These children are regarded as having a very bad disposition, when the real cause of their irritability is the food that is provided for them by their parents.  {18MR 84.1}
[18MR 84.2]          Soul-culture, and Service for Others. We should be careful in regard to soul-culture. If we use all the provisions made for us by heavenly agencies, we shall be co-laborers with God.  {18MR 84.2}
[18MR 84.3]          The Lord has given us moral susceptibilities. He has given us Jesus, who came into the world to show us in His life what our lives should be. He has given to us the same principles of truth that He gave to ancient Israel. These principles we are to follow in the formation of character.  {18MR 84.3}
[18MR 84.4]          In order to be made whole, we must connect with the Source of our strength. If the Lord in His mercy heals our infirmities and diseases, we are not to be presumptuous or to think that we can indulge perverted appetite, heedless of His message to abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. Let us not mock God by perversity of spirit. When He works a miracle in our behalf to give us health, it is that we may devote our restored powers to His service.  {18MR 84.4}
[18MR 84.5]          Christ lived not to please Himself, but to glorify His Father. And this was God's purpose in delivering the Israelites. Moses declared: "For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God, and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto Himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth" ［Deuteronomy 14:2］. If the Lord's ways had always been kept by His ancient people, in                                          -85-     the history of nations there would never have been a record of the destruction of Jerusalem.  {18MR 84.5}
[18MR 85.1]          The Lord has a message for us at this time. The truths that have been given to us, we are to receive into the heart and reveal in the life-practice. We are to be indeed channels of light to the world. The Lord has appointed us as His agencies to carry out His beneficent designs. His bounty has been lavished upon this world for the satisfaction and supply of all in need.  {18MR 85.1}
[18MR 85.2]          Gratitude to God. Men and women, by their ingratitude to God, reveal that their attachment and devotion to Him, in acknowledgment of His goodness and mercy, is less than that of the beasts of the field. The dumb animals possess more gratitude to God than do many of the beings who have been endowed with reason and capabilities. What a reproach to man is the superiority of the service of the beasts over the service of men!  {18MR 85.2}
[18MR 85.3]          Through Jeremiah the prophet the Lord says: "Yea, the stork in heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the swallow observe the time of their coming; but My people know not the judgment of the Lord. How do ye say, We are wise, and the law of the Lord is with us? Lo, certainly in vain made He it; the pen of the scribes is in vain. The wise men are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the Lord; and what wisdom is in them?" ［Jeremiah 8:7-9］. The entire chapter is a presentation of things as they are.  {18MR 85.3}
[18MR 85.4]          "Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord" ［Jeremiah 9:23, 24］.                                          -86-  {18MR 85.4}
[18MR 86.1]          Idolatry. Satan's work is to destroy. Idolatry is the masterful, powerful working of Satan against truth and righteousness, and therefore against God.  {18MR 86.1}
[18MR 86.2]          Satan's last temptation of Christ at the beginning of the Saviour's ministry, was on the point of idolatry. Taking Jesus to an eminence, Satan caused the kingdoms of the world, in all their glory, to pass in panoramic view before Him. The traces of evil were hidden. Christ's eyes, so lately greeted by gloom and desolation, now gazed upon a scene of unsurpassed loveliness and prosperity. Then the tempter's voice was heard: "All this power will I give Thee, and the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will give it. If Thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be Thine" ［Luke 4:6, 7］.  {18MR 86.2}
[18MR 86.3]          This was the most subtle and overpowering temptation that Satan could bring against Christ in His human nature to unsettle His faith in His heavenly Father and to separate Him from God.  {18MR 86.3}
[18MR 86.4]          Christ an Abiding Presence. The life of the true believer reveals an indwelling Saviour. The follower of Jesus is Christlike in spirit, in temper, in his meekness and humility. His faith works by love and purifies the soul. His whole life is a testimony to the world to the power of the grace of Christ. The pure doctrines of the gospel never degrade the receiver, never make him coarse, or rough, or uncourteous. The gospel refines, ennobles, and elevates, sanctifying the judgment and influencing the whole life. In true believers of the gospel, Christ is revealed as an abiding Presence.  {18MR 86.4}
[18MR 86.5]          "Spare Thy People." "Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and given not Thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them:                                         -87-     wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?" ［Joel 2:17］. This is the prospect threatening us now.  {18MR 86.5}
[18MR 87.1]          "Then will the Lord be jealous for His land, and pity His people. Yea, the Lord will answer and say unto His people. Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen" ［verses 18, 19］.  {18MR 87.1}
[18MR 87.2]         The Lord will work for His people, if they will work with Him in His way, and not in the way of their unsanctified hearts. "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" The word to us is, Everything will be shaken that can be shaken.  {18MR 87.2}
[18MR 87.3]          Justice in Dealing with Others. "The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, "Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy. Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep My Sabbaths: I am the Lord your God. "Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the Lord your God" ［Leviticus 19:1-4］.  {18MR 87.3}
[18MR 87.4]          The children of Israel were instructed not to oppress their brethren in any wise. They were to bear in mind that God's gifts are to be shared. The gleanings of harvest-field, orchard, and vineyard were to be regarded as the Lord's portion, to relieve the necessities of the poor and the stranger.  {18MR 87.4}
[18MR 87.5]          ［Verses 9-18, 30, 35-37, quoted.］        Our Responsibility in the Time of the End. On Calvary an infinite sacrifice was made to connect finite man with the infinite God, and to unite earth with heaven. Christ, in coming to the earth, irradiated light sufficient to enlighten the whole earth. But, sad to contemplate, only a few have chosen to walk in this light.                                         -88-  {18MR 87.5}
[18MR 88.1]         Never before has there been a time when the responsibility resting upon men was so great, never before has the position of Christ's followers been so solemn, as at the present time. God's messengers are now bearing a testimony that condemns those who refuse to accept it. We are rapidly approaching the close of this dispensation. "When the Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?" As the end approaches, we look for sin and violence to increase. The present state of the world answers to the terrible word-picture Inspiration has given through the apostles.  {18MR 88.1}
[18MR 88.2]          In the time of the end, the world will be divided into two classes --those who follow Christ fully, and those who are on the side of Satan.  {18MR 88.2}
[18MR 88.3]          We, as a people, profess to believe sacred truths. Are we happier and holier, more earnest, self-denying, and fervent, because of our belief in these truths, than are the people of other denominations? What evidence do we give to the world that our faith is above that of the ordinary religionist of the day? We can estimate the influence that advanced truth and increased light have on us, by the work that we do. "By their fruits," Christ declares, "ye shall know them." Our words, our works, are the fruit we bear. Do our works correspond to the sacredness of our faith?  {18MR 88.3}
[18MR 88.4]          We have no time to allow indifference or carelessness to mark our actions. Satan is an untiring foe. Peter says, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." The fullest consecration, the most earnest devotion, is required of us. The world is to be warned. The masses will not heed God's solemn warning, nevertheless His message must be proclaimed to "every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people."                                         -89-  {18MR 88.4}
[18MR 89.1]          Living Water. At the Feast of Tabernacles, the most impressive ceremony, one that called forth greatest rejoicing, was one commemorating an event in the wilderness sojourn. At the first dawn of day the priest, in a most imposing manner, dipped from the flowing waters of the Kedron a flagon of water, and, lifting it on high in the presence of the people, ascended the broad steps of the temple and entered the court of the priests, where he poured the water out before the altar.  {18MR 89.1}
[18MR 89.2]          In the last year of His ministry Christ witnessed this ceremony commemorating the smiting of the rock in the wilderness. That rock was a symbol of Him who by His death would cause living streams to flow to all who are athirst. There in the presence of the assembled multitude He set Himself apart to be smitten, that the water of life might flow to the world. He declared that He was the living Rock, of whom the rock in the wilderness was a symbol.  {18MR 89.2}
[18MR 89.3]          Not long since, Christ had pointed a Samaritan to the water of life. "Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give Him," He had said, "shall never thirst." But now it was not merely one whom He was inviting. The temple courts were crowded as Jesus suddenly lifted up His voice on "that great day of the feast," and said: "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water."  {18MR 89.3}
[18MR 89.4]          The condition of the people made this appeal very forcible. Many of those who heard Jesus were mourners over disappointed hopes; many were crushed and trembling in spirit; many were seeking to satisfy their restless longing with the things of the world and the praise of men; but when all was gained, they found that they had toiled only to reach a broken cistern, from which they could not quench their thirst.                                          -90-  {18MR 89.4}
[18MR 90.1]          Christ could read the hearts of those before Him. He knew that notwithstanding the apparent joy of the throng, there had been nothing in the round of ceremonies to meet the want of the soul, nothing to satisfy its thirst for that which perishes not. He knew that many parched souls panted for something more satisfactory. The people were in need of spiritual food and drink.  {18MR 90.1}
[18MR 90.2]          Christ's Steadfastness. No threat could intimate Him, no peril awaken His fears, no hardship exhaust His endurance, no temptation allure Him from duty.  {18MR 90.2}
[18MR 90.3]          The First Cleansing of the Temple. "After this He went down to Capernaum, He and His mother, and His brethren, and His disciples; and they continued there not many days. And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem" ［John 2:12, 13］.  {18MR 90.3}
[18MR 90.4]          The Passover was the most impressive and important of the Jewish feasts. The Jewish leaders had instructed the people that at Jerusalem they were to be taught to worship God. Here during the Passover week large numbers assembled, coming from all parts of Palestine, and even from distant lands. The temple courts were filled with a promiscuous throng. Many were unable to bring with them the sacrifices that were to be offered up as typifying the one great Sacrifice. For the convenience of these, animals were bought and sold in the outer courts of the temple. Here all classes of people assembled to purchase their offerings. Here all foreign money was exchanged for the coin of the sanctuary.  {18MR 90.4}
[18MR 90.5]          The money-changing gave opportunity for fraud and extortion, and it had grown into a disgraceful traffic, which was a source of revenue to the priests.                                          -91-     And the traders bought at low prices the animals and doves that were used for sacrificial offerings, and sold them at exorbitant prices.  {18MR 90.5}
[18MR 91.1]          The morning before the Passover supper was to be eaten, Jesus mingled with the throng that filled the outer courts of the temple. His righteous indignation was aroused when He found that within the enclosure, voices of praise and prayer were mingled with voices engaged in the contention of traffic.  {18MR 91.1}
[18MR 91.2]          With a voice of authority, Christ commanded: "Take these things hence; make not My Father's house an house of merchandise." He overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and cleansed the temple-courts from unholy traffic.  {18MR 91.2}
[18MR 91.3]          Nicodemus was a witness of this scene. He greatly desired an interview with Jesus, but shrank from seeking Him openly. Learning by special inquiry the Saviour's place of retirement in the Mount of Olives, he waited until night, and then went to Jesus to learn more fully in regard to His mission, and to seek for evidences that would prove that Christ was indeed the promised One. This night interview was productive of rays of light that have had a powerful influence upon the world.--Ms 60, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 91.3}
[18MR 92.1]       MR No. 1313 - Thoughts About the Pre-Flood World, Christ's Love for Man, Fruit-Bearing, Peace, and Surrender to God's Will         "As It Was In the Days of Noah." We are living in the very last days of this earth's history. The terrible calamities that have recently visited our country show that the judgments of the Lord are falling on the world. The destruction of these cities is a warning to us to prepare for what is coming upon the earth. In the future there will be broken thrones and great distress of nations, with perplexity. Satan will work with intense activity. The earth will be filled with the shrieks of suffering, expiring nations. There will be war, war. The places of the earth will be in confusion, as from its bowels pours forth its burning contents, to destroy the inhabitants of the world who, in their wickedness, resemble the inhabitants of the antediluvian world.  {18MR 92.1}
[18MR 92.2]          In that time, as in this, there were two classes, the righteous and the wicked. Enoch and others walked with God in uprightness. But the great majority of the inhabitants of the earth were given over to iniquity, and their wickedness rose before God. The earth "was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence." "The wickedness of man was great in the earth, and . . . every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually." "And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth." "And it repented the Lord that He had made man on the earth, and it grieved Him at His heart. And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and                                         -93-     beast, and creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth Me that I have made them." "And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before Me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth" ［Genesis 6:5-13, passim］.  {18MR 92.2}
[18MR 93.1]         God gave direction that an ark was to be built for those who desired to be saved from the coming destruction. He was about to speak in determined language against the wickedness that had grown to fearful proportions. He was about to clothe Himself with vengeance, and execute His judgment against the transgressors of His law. He would arise out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity and bold transgression.  {18MR 93.1}
[18MR 93.2]          Christ declared that as it was in the days of Noah, so it would be in the day of His coming. And the war, the bloodshed, the wicked deeds of the old world, fill the world today.  {18MR 93.2}
[18MR 93.3]          Those who keep the law of God will, like Enoch and Noah, give to the world a message of warning. In Jude we read: "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, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him" ［verses 14, 15］.  {18MR 93.3}
[18MR 93.4]         This whole chapter is a warning of the feeling that will exist in the world, and that will increase in intensity to the close of time.  {18MR 93.4}
[18MR 93.5]          ［Jude 10-13, 16, quoted.］ These words will be fulfilled. Selfish plans for the uplifting of self will be made and carried out. Men will strive, as did Nebuchadnezzar, to glorify self. ［Jude 20-25, quoted.］                                         -94-  {18MR 93.5}
[18MR 94.1]          The combat of wrong against right will be fierce and terrible. The forms of evil, nursed by rebellion against God, and strong with the growth of centuries, will show what lawless transgressors can do in connection with their leader.  {18MR 94.1}
[18MR 94.2]          Let Seventh-day Adventists remember that they are now to stand as men and women prepared for the issue.  {18MR 94.2}
[18MR 94.3]          The Love of Our Redeemer. Clothing His divinity with humanity, Christ came to this world to seek and save the lost. In every deed and word He was unselfish. His only motive was the love that He bore to the race, a love unsurpassed by any other love that has ever been shown. He came to show what human beings may become if they will unite their weakness with His strength.  {18MR 94.3}
[18MR 94.4]          Satan has declared to His synagogue that man could not keep God's commandments. One soul saved would prove this statement false. One soul saved would demonstrate the righteousness of God's law. Christ came to this earth and by a life of obedience showed that man could obey. He canceled the guilt resting on the sinner. That the sinner might stand before God clothed with the robe of righteousness, Jesus clothed Himself with the robe of sorrow.  {18MR 94.4}
[18MR 94.5]          Satan in heaven had hated Christ for His position in the courts of God. He hated Him the more when he himself was dethroned. He hated Him who pledged Himself to redeem a race of sinners. From the manger to the cross he followed Him, striving constantly to gain the mastery over Him. He filled the hearts of the priests and rulers with hatred toward Him, till at last the Saviour stood in Pilate's judgment hall in the hands of a lawless mob, whose hearts were filled with the violence that Satan only can inspire. His agents, disguised in the robes of priests and rulers, joined hands with the lowest and most degraded, in an effort to take the life of the Son of God. How could the beings He had                                         -95-     created, the beings He loved so well that He left His heavenly home to come to this earth in their behalf, sink to such depths of wickedness that they would personate Satan in fighting against Him!  {18MR 94.5}
[18MR 95.1]          Stand before the cross, and learn from it the cost of redemption. With breaking heart, the holy Sufferer looks up to God, and cries, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" His heart was breaking under the thought of the woe that was to come upon the actors, under a sense of their ingratitude, under the weight of the sin He Himself must carry for them. No heart save His own could approach unto such sin-bearing. Amidst His agony there came from heart and lips the wonderful prayer, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."  {18MR 95.1}
[18MR 95.2]         The angels of heaven sympathized with their loved Commander. Gladly would they have broken their ranks and gone to His assistance. But this was not God's plan. Our Saviour trod the winepress alone, and of the people there was none with Him.  {18MR 95.2}
[18MR 95.3]          "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God." "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins"; "and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world."  {18MR 95.3}
[18MR 95.4]          Trees of Righteousness. Man is a tree planted by the hand of God in His own garden, brought under His own culture. It is His purpose that His people shall be trees of righteousness, bearing much fruit for Him. Of those who cooperate with Him in carrying out this purpose, it is written, "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" ［Psalms 1:3］.                                          -96-  {18MR 95.4}
[18MR 96.1]          Christ declared, "I am the true vine, and My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. . . . Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples. As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love. If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full" ［John 15:1, 2, 8-11］.  {18MR 96.1}
[18MR 96.2]          What fruit does Christ expect from His disciples? The exerting of an influence like the influence exerted by the Redeemer. He expects us to follow His example of perfect goodness, living in obedience to all His commandments. Thus it is that we become Christlike. Only thus can we bear much fruit.  {18MR 96.2}
[18MR 96.3]          Justification is the reward of faith in the righteousness of Christ. His imputed righteousness brings everyone who accepts Him as a personal Saviour into conformity to the will of God. His righteousness goes before them. He leads the way, bidding us follow Him. He who follows Christ must live in obedience to the law of God. Sin and holiness cannot unite.  {18MR 96.3}
[18MR 96.4]          Christ's Legacy of Peace. "The same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when He had so said, He showed unto them His hands and His side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as My Father hath sent Me, even so send I you. And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the                                         -97-     Holy Ghost: whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained" ［John 20:19-23］.  {18MR 96.4}
[18MR 97.1]          Christ has left His peace as His legacy to His church. "These things have I spoken unto you," He said, "being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. 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 14:25-27］. The comfort that Christ gave to His disciples in that trying hour was that they should be under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  {18MR 97.1}
[18MR 97.2]          To those who accept Christ by living faith, He gives power to become sons of God. They enter His school; they are His students. They need not be troubled or anxious, for He will ratify His promise to them. He will not restrict His word, but will fulfill all His promises.  {18MR 97.2}
[18MR 97.3]          Christ came to this earth and suffered the sorrows, disappointments, and griefs of humanity, that man might stand on vantage ground before angels and before men, revealing to the world the attributes of God. Let us put self out of sight, and think more of Christ. People are longing to hear of the Saviour from those who have learned of Him His meekness and His lowliness, and who can therefore speak words of sincere experience. Such ones inspire faith and confidence. They show no coarseness of speech, no carelessness of attitude; for they realize that they are representatives of Christ.  {18MR 97.3}
[18MR 97.4]          By loving one another as He has loved them, they bear witness of Him to the world. They eat His flesh and drink His blood, and this is to them eternal life. They are like Him in character, in manner, in dealing. They rely upon Him as their efficiency, realizing that their power for usefulness is derived                                          -98-     from Him. Self is dead, because Christ's life is their life. In all their daily perplexities and conflicts they show a firm, unwavering confidence in His power. They have proved the truthfulness of the words, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee, because he trusteth in Thee."  {18MR 97.4}
[18MR 98.1]          God's Will, Not Ours, To Control. The Bible is the Word of God to man. In this Word God has revealed His will. Let us study this Word, that we may gain a fuller understanding of God's will.  {18MR 98.1}
[18MR 98.2]          God has expressed His will. This will is not to be ignored, as has so often been done. God's servants are not to present for signature by their brethren agreements that will give one man the least authority for ruling over his fellow men. No such documents must be signed. No yoke that Christ has not framed is to be bound upon the necks of God's people. Let those who have been wearing yokes of human devising cast them aside at any cost, and take the yoke of Christ. This is the instruction that God has been given me for the past years and has been repeating the past few days.  {18MR 98.2}
[18MR 98.3]          This day, June 3, 1902, I am instructed by the Lord to say that our great need now is to know that we are wearing Christ's yoke. His service brings rest to the soul. Are we, in the fullest sense of the word, heeding the invitation, "Come unto Me, all ye that labor 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 11:29-30］. By accepting this invitation, you commit your soul to God as unto a faithful Creator.  {18MR 98.3}
[18MR 98.4]          Our heavenly Father knows how weak we are. He understands our necessities and our capacities. He has not left us to be guided or controlled by any human                                          -99-     will. We are to follow the word, "It is written." We gain purity of soul through the blood of Jesus, which is efficacious to cleanse us from all sin.  {18MR 98.4}
[18MR 99.1]          "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." "He that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." Let us conform our wills to the will of God.  {18MR 99.1}
[18MR 99.2]          Remember that however great the wisdom a man may appear to have, if Christ does not abide in his soul, if he is not sustained by the life-giving power of the leaves of the tree of life, he will lead your feet into false paths. However great the capabilities and talents entrusted to a man, unless he is breathed upon by the Lord Jesus, unless the life-giving current from Christ circulates through his soul, unless he receives nourishment from Christ as the branches of the vine receive the sap from the parent-stock, he is not, with all his endowments and intelligence, to be trusted as a safe guide for the people of God.  {18MR 99.2}
[18MR 99.3]          Each human being has a soul to save or a soul to lose. He must remember that under all circumstances he must be a conscientious Christian. If a man misappropriates his wisdom, as did the one who was once covering cherub in the heavenly courts, and places his judgment as supreme, be afraid of him, and turn from him to the living God.  {18MR 99.3}
[18MR 99.4]          Let every man now study the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. What is the great work before us? The proclamation of the gospel, with its life-saving principles, to every nation and kindred and tongue and people. Let no one remain in idleness because he cannot do the same class of work that the most experienced of God's servants are doing. Because you cannot be in the highest place, will you do nothing? Because you cannot trade upon pounds, will you refuse to trade upon the one pound? Because you have not five talents, will you                                        -100-     put your one talent in a napkin and hide it in the earth? Because you cannot work for the multitude, will you refuse to work for individuals?  {18MR 99.4}
[18MR 100.1]          Do the smaller duties waiting for you. Thus you will help those who are bearing heavy responsibilities. Use your talents, be they ever so few. God has certainly given you a work to do for Him. And in all you do, keep the Lord Jesus ever before you. Do all to the glory of His name. You belong to God, and you must do His work. Your life is sustained by the Giver of life. Your every capability, therefore, is to be put to use in His service. By using your talents faithfully and wisely, you are gaining power to do better work, to bear heavier responsibilities.  {18MR 100.1}
[18MR 100.2]          Whatever you accomplish, be it little or much, leave it with God, remembering that it is not left for man to measure the work or the reward of his fellow men. The Lord Jesus will give you the wages that are your due. Your reward will be in accordance with the spirit in which your work was done. Purity of motive, an earnest desire to glorify God, will bring to the earnest worker the same reward that comes to the one who accomplishes more. It is the principles by which the worker is governed that determine the reward.  {18MR 100.2}
[18MR 100.3]          It is not alone by the men in high places of responsibility in the ministry or in any other lines of work, not alone by men holding positions on boards or committees or by the managers of our sanitariums and publishing houses, that the work is to be done that will cause the earth to be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. This work can be done only by the whole church acting their part under the guidance and in the power of Jesus Christ.--Ms 72, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Nov. 5, Entire Ms.  {18MR 100.3}
[18MR 101.1]       MR No. 1314 - Christ Our Example in Every Line of Work; Counsel on Medical Missionary Work         (Diary entry written October 27, 1902, at "Elmshaven," St. Helena, Ca.)  {18MR 101.1}
[18MR 101.2]          I retired last night at seven o'clock. I could not sleep past twelve o'clock. My mind is burdened with many matters.  {18MR 101.2}
[18MR 101.3]         We should understandingly present to God the prayer that Christ taught His disciples. In it is mentioned all that we need. We are not to think that we should always limit our petitions by simply repeating this prayer, but it is short and embraces everything.  {18MR 101.3}
[18MR 101.4]          In His Sermon on the Mount, Christ said, "When thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward" ［Matthew 6:5］. The hypocrites, while praying, are seen of men, but their pretended prayers bring no returns from above.  {18MR 101.4}
[18MR 101.5]          Christ continued: "But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him" ［verses 7, 8］.  {18MR 101.5}
[18MR 101.6]         By the expression "vain repetitions" the Saviour meant words without meaning, words oft repeated without corresponding thought or proper                                        -102-     understanding, words spoken without true and earnest desire. God is not pleased with a careless, unmeaning repetition of many words. This is what makes many prayers long and tiresome. Short, heartfelt prayers, right to the point, offered with an earnestness corresponding to the soul-hunger for the Holy Spirit, are not wearisome to God or to the people; for they reveal a longing desire for needed strength--strength which can be obtained only from the Source of all strength. An effectual, fervent prayer avails much to the one who seeks God for the wisdom that is promised to those who ask in faith. Our heavenly Father is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him than earthly parents are to give bread to their hungry children.  {18MR 101.6}
[18MR 102.1]          Having cautioned His disciples not to use vain repetitions in their prayers, Christ gave them a model prayer. "After this manner therefore pray ye," He said:  {18MR 102.1}
[18MR 102.2]          "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen."  {18MR 102.2}
[18MR 102.3]          I am instructed to say to all our churches, Pray the prayer that Christ taught to His disciples. Study this prayer; live it; and you will win a crown of life everlasting.  {18MR 102.3}
[18MR 102.4]          "Hallowed be Thy name." The name of God is always to be spoken with thoughtful reverence and love.  {18MR 102.4}
[18MR 102.5]          "Thy kingdom come." Let us pray the Father to help us receive the kingdom of heaven into our hearts. Christ is to be enthroned within, as the source of all power and supremacy. Let us look to God in faith, saying, "Lead us, strengthen us, inspire us by Thy Holy Spirit to do Thy will on earth as it is                                         -103-     done in heaven." This will necessitate our receiving into the heart an abundance of grace from Christ Jesus day by day, hour by hour.  {18MR 102.5}
[18MR 103.1]          Shall we not include in our prayers the words, "Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done," and then understandingly answer our own petitions by keeping the human will in subjection to God's will, in order that the unsanctified desires and ambitious devisings of the human mind may not become a controlling power? Shall we not receive the Holy Spirit as a welcome Guest into the soul-temple, that the will and the purposes of Christ may be worked out in and through us to God's glory? Shall we not, in word and deed, carry out the expressed will of the One who cannot err or make a mistake?  {18MR 103.1}
[18MR 103.2]          We cannot afford to consult fallible minds, or to depend on human judgment, so often unsanctified and perverse. This is why true followers of Christ have such a great soul-hunger for the Holy Spirit; for the Holy Spirit so works through human agents that God's will is done on the earth as it is in heaven.  {18MR 103.2}
[18MR 103.3]          Those who, in cooperation with heavenly intelligences, endeavor to answer the prayer that Christ has given us, will be enabled to do the will of God on the earth as it is done in heaven. The Master will take possession of, and use in fulfilling His will, every mind that is entirely surrendered to Him. This is the higher education which every Christian should most earnestly strive to obtain.  {18MR 103.3}
[18MR 103.4]          The world's plan, the world's policy, the will and the suggestion of unsanctified hearts, are striving for recognition. Of many, the world, and not the Lord Jesus Christ, is master. Selfishness is strengthened by the unsanctified desires and will of the human agent. Christians in name, many are practicing a fraud upon the world, for into the life-practice they bring worldly principles. In dealing with their fellow men, they use the hasty, sharp                                         -104-     words that worldlings use. Revealing the same nature as the unconverted, while claiming to be converted, they are false witnesses against the meek and lowly Saviour.  {18MR 103.4}
[18MR 104.1]          The world has no claim to our service, for by a solemn, holy covenant we accepted God's badge of services at the time of our baptism. On that occasion we pledged ourselves, in the presence of the three great heavenly Powers, to come out from the world and be separate.  {18MR 104.1}
[18MR 104.2]          In the third of Colossians we read: "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 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 3:1-4］.  {18MR 104.2}
[18MR 104.3]         This whole chapter should be carefully studied. What is the charge given us? "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: in the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ［after pledging yourself to serve Christ in truth and verify］ ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth" ［verses 5-8］.  {18MR 104.3}
[18MR 104.5]         Notice the next verse: "Lie not one to another." If you have solemnly covenanted with God, in the presence of Christ and the Holy Spirit, to act as a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King, you will not in your life lie against the truth you profess to believe. You will not reveal by your works that you are a sinner, while professing to be a saint. If you are sincere in making this pledge, you will not be found nullifying your prayer. "Thy                                         -105-     kingdom come; Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven," by acting as sinners act whenever it best suits your convenience to act thus, and when you can advantage yourself and at your neighbor's disadvantage.  {18MR 104.5}
[18MR 105.1]         Those who choose to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, must reveal their choice by bringing their words and actions into harmony with the principles they advocate. My brother, my sister, is the kingdom of God enthroned in your heart by Christ's presence abiding there? Or is self still a controlling power within? Whose subject are you? If a selfish spirit continues to keep you out of Christ's service, pray, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.  {18MR 105.1}
[18MR 105.2]          Pray, oh, pray most earnestly, "Put Thy Spirit, Lord, Thy Holy Spirit, within my heart, that I may be sincere in keeping my baptismal vow." Pray that the intercession of Christ in your behalf shall not be in vain. Pray that unbelief shall no longer lead you to live a life that bears witness against the truth; no longer lead you to claim to be in God's service while in the life-practice, because of a perverted will, you reveal that you are not bearing the fruits of the Spirit. Pray for power to demonstrate to the world that you are dead to sin, and that your life is indeed hid with Christ in God.  {18MR 105.2}
[18MR 105.3]          Christ Our Example in Medical Missionary Work. Of His disciples Christ says, "They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world." In doing medical missionary work, we can have efficiency and power only by working as Christ worked. And we can be Christlike in word and deed only when His will is perfected in us. Then shall His righteousness go before us, and the glory of the Lord shall be our rearward.  {18MR 105.3}
[18MR 105.4]          The life of Christ must become our life, our light, our exceeding great reward. Then our words will bear a living testimony that in our lives we are not                                         -106-     lying against the truth we claim to believe. If Christ is indeed formed within, the hope of glory, the soul will be filled with Christlike joy. As true believers we shall sit together with Christ in heavenly places. Our hearts will be humble, our spirits contrite. We will have fervent love one for another, and the preparedness for heaven will begin with us here on earth, and the world will believe that God has sent His Son into the world to save sinners. The proof that we are not of the world will be the manifestation of Christ's glory--His character--in the life-practice. When He dwells in the heart, we shall manifest that tenderness, that love, that fervency of spirit, which reveals His character formed within. Many will acknowledge that Christ's followers can with truthfulness say, "Thy gentleness hath made me great."  {18MR 105.4}
[18MR 106.1]          We can walk as Christ walked only when we abide in Him. We can do medical missionary work in a Christlike manner only when we are one with Him, only when we wear His yoke. To those who bear His yoke He promises rest. He urges all to come to Him with their burdens. "Learn of Me," He pleads; "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."  {18MR 106.1}
[18MR 106.2]          Yoked up with Christ, we receive spiritual life and power, for then we are "laborers together with God," and of us as church-members it can be said, "Ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building." Through sanctified cooperation with Christ, every one of us can form a life-character that will be accepted in the heavenly kingdom. Thus we can cooperate with God in answering the prayer, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven."  {18MR 106.2}
[18MR 106.3]          When we become true followers of the meek and lowly Saviour, we shall do the will of God on the earth as it is done in heaven. The will of man's unrenewed, unsanctified nature can no longer exercise a ruling, kingly power                                         -107-     over the human agent. No longer can the leaven of unrighteousness--professing Christians who in their lives lie against the truth--leaven the whole church and prevent the divine will from being carried out on the earth as it is in heaven.  {18MR 106.3}
[18MR 107.1]          The Saviour lived on this earth a life that love for God will constrain every true believer in Christ to live. Following His example, in our medical missionary work we shall reveal to the world that our credentials are from above, that as representatives of the kingdom of heaven we are fulfilling the words of the Lord's prayer, "Thy kingdom come." United with Christ in God, we shall reveal to the world that as God chose His Son to be His representative on the earth, even so has Christ chosen us to represent His character. Everyone who has genuine faith in Christ Jesus will represent Him in character.  {18MR 107.1}
[18MR 107.2]          Christ knew that His Father had chosen Him to carry out the great plan of redemption by coming to the fallen world to die for sinners. And when He came to fulfill His mission, He was, in every sense of the term, a medical missionary. Those who yoke up with Him and learn of Him, will also be true medical missionaries. Receiving the Spirit of Christ, every one of His followers will fulfill a divinely appointed mission not merely to be an influence among influences, but to be an influence for God in every sense of the term.  {18MR 107.2}
[18MR 107.3]          Our medical missionary workers must arise to heights that can be reached only by a living, working faith. At this time in our history the men at the head of the work are to allow no confusion of sentiment to prevail in regard to what should really be expected of medical missionaries sent of God. There should be a more clear, definite understanding of what medical missionary work comprehends. It must be defined as standing on an altogether higher plane, and                                         -108-     as accomplishing results of a much more sanctified order, before God can endorse it as genuine. Those who desire to honor God will not mingle worldly policy plans with His plans in attempting to accomplish the results that this work is ordained of God to accomplish.  {18MR 107.3}
[18MR 108.1]          The people of God, those who claim to love Him and keep His commandments, are to reflect a much clearer, purer light than they now reflect. Even Christ desired men to know that He was not acting independently, but in behalf of Another, who had sent Him. He never for a moment lost sight of the greatness of His mission. He was always conscious of the fact that He was the Sent of God. And to His Father He declared concerning His disciples, "As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world."  {18MR 108.1}
[18MR 108.2]          Our work is clearly defined. As the Father sent His only begotten Son into our world, even so Christ sends us, His disciples, as His medical missionary workers. In fulfilling this high and holy mission, we are to do the will of God. No one man's mind or judgment is to be our criterion of what constitutes genuine medical missionary work. Altogether too much has been introduced in connection with this work. That which is attached to it largely destroys its sanctity and its power to fulfill the purpose which it is ordained of God to accomplish.  {18MR 108.2}
[18MR 108.3]          True medical missionary work is of heavenly origin. It was not originated by any person who lives. But in connection with this work we see so much which dishonors God that I am instructed to say, The medical missionary work is of divine origin, and has a most glorious mission to fulfill. Make no mistake in this matter. In all its bearings it is to be in conformity with Christ's work. Those who are workers together with God will just as surely represent the                                        -109-     character of Christ as Christ represented the character of His Father while in this world.  {18MR 108.3}
[18MR 109.1]          I am instructed to say that God will have the medical missionary work cleansed from the tarnish of earthliness, and elevated to stand in its true position before the world. When schemes that imperil souls are brought into connection with this work, its influence is destroyed. This is why there have arisen in the carrying forward of medical missionary work many perplexities that demand our careful consideration.  {18MR 109.1}
[18MR 109.2]          When Christ was about to ascend to heaven, He committed to His disciples the mission that His Father had committed to Him. And He instructed them how to fulfill this mission. He declared that as He had represented His Father to the world, so they were to represent Him. Although He would be invisible to the natural eye, yet all who believed on Him would be able to behold Him by faith. He told His followers to work as He had worked. They were to be a spectacle to worlds unfallen, to angels, and to men, revealing the Father through the Son.  {18MR 109.2}
[18MR 109.3]          Nothing will help us more at this stage of our work than to understand and to fulfill the mission of the greatest Medical Missionary that ever trod the earth. Nothing will help us more than to realize how sacred is this kind of work and how perfectly it must correspond with the lifework of the Great Missionary. The object of our mission is the same as the object of Christ's mission. Why did God send His Son to the fallen world? To make known and to demonstrate to mankind His love for them. Christ came as a Redeemer. Throughout His ministry He was to keep prominent His mission to save sinners.  {18MR 109.3}
[18MR 109.4]          Clothed with humanity, Christ performed a work that revealed the invisible Father in order that His disciples might understand the meaning of the prayer, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven." But how many                                         -110-     who claim to be His followers concede to a worldly policy! This is because their hearts are not filled with a love for the truth. They are not pursuing uncorrupted principles. God's purpose in committing to men and women the mission that He committed to Christ is to disentangle His followers from all worldly connivings and policy, and to give them a work identical with the work that Christ did, that they might continually be Christ's representatives in character (John 17:18, 20, 23).  {18MR 109.4}
[18MR 110.1]          Christians should bear in mind that God has a personality as verily as has Christ. They should so represent Christ's person and conduct that by doing His work they will manifest the character and spirit of the Father. Christ is the express image of His Father's person and character. Those who are imbued with His Spirit will have an intense love for everyone for whom He died, and will work earnestly to bring into the heavenly garner a harvest of souls. Filled with His Spirit, men and women will be animated with the same desire to save sinners that animated Christ in His lifework as a missionary sent of God.  {18MR 110.1}
[18MR 110.2]          To those who receive Christ He gives power to become the sons of God, in order that they may be transformed into His likeness. His followers must reveal Him in speech, in spirit, in obedience to His law, in long patience, in love, in conformity to His will in all things. They are to show forth His character in love and patience toward those who are faulty. They are to seek to restore, and not to destroy, ever manifesting a heavenly love toward every erring fellow being. Their own personality is to be submerged in the personality of Christ, as revealed in their words and actions.  {18MR 110.2}
[18MR 110.3]          Let us remember that it is not by word and precept alone that we are to reveal Christ's character. Our works must bear witness to His indwelling presence in the heart. His disposition, His kindness, His compassion,                                         -111-     manifested in our actions, will inspire hope in the minds and hearts of the most hopeless. Thus in act, as well as in word, we shall reveal to the world the character of the Unseen.--Manuscript 130, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Nov. 5, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 110.3}
[18MR 112.1]       MR No. 1315 - The Saviour's Characteristics         The plan of redemption, by which the merciful, divine-human Redeemer rescued man from the thraldom of sin, is beyond the comprehension of men or of angels. It is indeed a mystery so surpassing, so grand, so sublime, that we can never hope fully to understand it.  {18MR 112.1}
[18MR 112.2]          Christ's sacrifice for fallen man has no parallel. It is the most exalted, sacred theme on which we can meditate. Every heart that is enlightened by the grace of God is constrained to bow with inexpressible gratitude and adoration before the Redeemer for His infinite sacrifice.  {18MR 112.2}
[18MR 112.3]          In His life Jesus of Nazareth differed from all other men. His entire life was characterized by disinterested benevolence and the beauty of holiness. In His bosom existed the purest love, free from every taint of selfishness and sin. His life was perfectly harmonious. He is the only true model of goodness and perfection. From the beginning of His ministry men began more clearly to comprehend the character of God.  {18MR 112.3}
[18MR 112.4]          Up to the time of Christ's first advent, men worshiped cruel, despotic gods. Even the Jewish mind was reached through fear, and not love. Christ's mission on the earth was to reveal to men that God was not a despot, but a heavenly Father, full of love and mercy for His children. He spoke of God by the endearing title of "My Father." In answer to the anxious questionings of Joseph and Mary after they had found Him in the temple, He said, "Wist ye not that I must be about My Father's business?" He did not refer to Joseph, His                                         -113-     earthly father. It was not Joseph's business in which He was engaged with the doctors of the law.  {18MR 112.4}
[18MR 113.1]          The first Adam was a free moral agent. But he abused His freedom. He allowed himself to be overcome by appetite. By disobedience he lost his innocence. By his own free will he became a sinner, separating himself from the favor of God.  {18MR 113.1}
[18MR 113.2]          The second Adam was also a free moral agent, held responsible for His conduct. Surrounded by intensely subtle and misleading influences, He was much less favorably situated than was the first Adam to lead a sinless life. Yet in the midst of sinners He resisted every temptation to sin, and maintained His innocency. He was ever sinless.  {18MR 113.2}
[18MR 113.3]          Satan sought to tempt Christ not only to indulge the grosser passions and to yield to appetite, but he appealed to His ambition. Notwithstanding the enemy's determined efforts, Christ did not manifest a grasping spirit to gain possession of the kingdoms of this world. He did not worship Satan to gain worldly wealth. Integrity should never be yielded to obtain any earthly advantage. Power and riches obtained at the expense of honesty and principle will prove a terrible curse. Yet the masses worship Satan instead of God, because such a course gives them more freedom to engage in satanic practices in their business transactions, that they may add to their riches.  {18MR 113.3}
[18MR 113.4]          Although the great truths uttered by our Lord were given in simple language, they were clothed with such beauty that they interested and charmed the greatest intellects. And these truths were illustrated so simply and so clearly by the scenes of common life, that children understood them.  {18MR 113.4}
[18MR 113.5]          To give a true representation of the tender, loving, pitying care exercised by His Father, Jesus gave the parable of the prodigal son. Though His children                                         -114-     err and stray from Him, if they repent and return, He will receive them with the joy manifested by an earthly father in receiving a long-lost son who in penitence returns, saying, "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants." How earnestly should men cooperate with God in seeking the lost sheep, in seeking to win back the prodigal!  {18MR 113.5}
[18MR 114.1]          In all the sufferings and afflictions of man, there is an Eye to pity, a Heart to love. "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him." God's tenderest care is exercised over us. He pities us in our weakness and in our sorrow. We may be despondent, even despairing; the heavy clouds of affliction may be over us; but there is light ahead. Beyond the gloom is a sympathetic, compassionate Friend, One who does not willingly grieve or afflict the children of men.  {18MR 114.1}
[18MR 114.2]          "All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them." The Saviour taught this principle to make mankind happy, not unhappy, for in no other way can happiness come. God desires men and women to live the higher life. He gives them the boon of life not to enable them merely to gain wealth, but to improve their higher powers by doing the work He has entrusted to mankind--the work of searching out and relieving the necessities of their fellow men. Man should not work for his selfish interest, but for the interest of everyone about him, blessing others by his influence and kindly deeds. This purpose of God is exemplified in Christ's life.  {18MR 114.2}
[18MR 114.3]          The Saviour declares, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me." The incident of the good Samaritan is given as an illustration of our duty to those in need of sympathy and help. The Jews had been instructed by their leaders to despise the Samaritans; but                                          -115-     Jesus showed that one of this hated class was far in advance of the priests in performing deeds of compassion, mercy, and benevolence. The Levites, chosen to fill sacred, holy offices among God's favored people, did not improve this opportunity to do good, and thus to place on record an example that all should follow in treating such cases.  {18MR 114.3}
[18MR 115.1]          The Samaritan, scorned by priest and Levite, despised by the Jews as a member of a despised people, has been pointed out by Christ as one who obeyed the law of human kindness, as one who showed true mercy. His compassionate act the Saviour extols, and stamps with the seal of divine approval. The merciful deed of this Samaritan has been recorded as an exemplification of man's duty to his fellow man.  {18MR 115.1}
[18MR 115.2]          Christ carried out in His life His own divine teachings. His zeal never led Him to become passionate. He manifested consistency without obstinacy, benevolence without weakness, tenderness and sympathy without sentimentalism. He was highly social, yet He possessed a reserved dignity that did not encourage undue familiarity. His temperance never led to bigotry or austerity. He was not conformed to this world, yet He was not indifferent to the wants of the least among men. He was awake to the needs of all.  {18MR 115.2}
[18MR 115.3]          The feeding of the multitude is an illustration of Christ's tender solicitude. After thousands, forgetting the wants of nature, had listened with deepest interest to His ministry of truth, He, like a pitying father, was mindful of their wants. Often hungry Himself, He was awake to the necessities of others. Calling His disciples to Him, He said, "I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with Me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way." He remembered that after His long fast in the wilderness of temptation, He had                                         -116-     fainted, and that angels had ministered to Him. Without hesitation He wrought a miracle to feed the thousands who had followed Him in order that they might hear the gracious words proceeding from His lips.  {18MR 115.3}
[18MR 116.1]          The miracles of Christ are called His works. They were performed with a quiet dignity, and yet as easily as we perform our daily duties, for they were natural to His character.  {18MR 116.1}
[18MR 116.2]          Christ came to fulfill every letter of God's law, and to observe even the precepts and the ceremonies of the Mosaic institutions. At the same time, He came to bring about a transformation and to make all things new. God's law had been perverted by the Jewish teachers. The most zealous advocates of the law were themselves transgressors.  {18MR 116.2}
[18MR 116.3]          The Saviour's own brothers did not believe on Him. They were zealous and impatient to have a temporal kingdom, in which they hoped to obtain special honor. Even Christ's own disciples were slow to learn and to understand. Notwithstanding their love for Him and their reverence of His character, their faith in His being the Son of God wavered. Their frequent reference to the traditions of the fathers, and their continual misunderstanding of His discourses, show how difficult it was for them to free themselves from superstition.  {18MR 116.3}
[18MR 116.4]          Christ was absorbed in the work that He came to perform. His devotion to the work of saving the lost race was manifest on all occasions; for He ever showed tender love for the sinner, and rebuked sin with severity. In Him was blended the wisdom of the serpent and the harmlessness of the dove. He calmly and deliberately affirmed His royal character, and spoke of His coming in glory in the clouds of heaven. In the hour of deepest humiliation, when the powers of darkness seemed triumphant, He proclaimed Himself as the Life- giver. Although                                         -117-     apparently the humblest and the lowliest of men, He declared that those who had seen Him had seen the Father--thus identifying Himself with God.--Ms 132, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 116.4}
[18MR 118.1]       MR No. 1316 - Words to Parents         God demands from parents and children the service of the whole being --heart, mind, soul, and strength. Parents, God gave His Son that you and your children might have eternal life. Will you despise His sacrifice, and make it of none effect?  {18MR 118.1}
[18MR 118.2]          I beseech you to take up the work waiting for you--the education of your children. Teach them from their earliest years to obey. Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; then they will form characters that God can approve.  {18MR 118.2}
[18MR 118.3]          Direct their minds to high and holy objects. Point them to God as their sufficiency. Guard well every word you speak in the home. Say nothing that you will regret. At best, life is short.  {18MR 118.3}
[18MR 118.4]          Mothers, teach your children to refuse to injure their bodies by obedience to fashion's mandates. Dress them in plain, simple clothing, and thus gain time to give them needed lessons regarding the formation of character.  {18MR 118.4}
[18MR 118.5]          The Word of God is explicit regarding the preparation required for the future life. No one need make a mistake in regard to his duty. Every family may know what God expects it to be. He has given His Word as a guide, to point us to the only safe path, to show us the only terms upon which we can gain immortal life.  {18MR 118.5}
[18MR 118.6]          Fathers and mothers, think earnestly of the importance of your work. It rests with you to decide whether good or evil thoughts shall occupy the minds of your children. Daily sanctify yourselves to God. In all your plans and                                         -119-     purposes let your first question be, How can I best minister to the present and future good of my children? To prepare them to inherit eternal life requires patient, untiring effort. Let not your perseverance fail.  {18MR 118.6}
[18MR 119.1]          Study with your children. Remember that you are God's little children, and that you must first learn of Him before you can teach your children aright. Make the Word of God your lesson book. The faithful instruction that Timothy received from his mother and grandmother was the foundation of his piety. Of another the Word of God declares, "He did evil, because he prepared not his heart to fear the Lord."  {18MR 119.1}
[18MR 119.2]          Do not fail to give your children instruction in the everyday duties of life. Teach them while they are still young the simpler principles of physiology, showing them how best to preserve their physical, mental, and spiritual powers, and how to use their gifts to the glory of God. He desires that every part of the being shall be kept in healthy action. Every muscle, every sinew, every nerve, has its work.  {18MR 119.2}
[18MR 119.3]          From their babyhood train your children for God. If in their earlier years the foundations of a righteous character are laid, their lives, as they grow into manhood and womanhood, will develop into beautiful temples for the Lord.  {18MR 119.3}
[18MR 119.4]          Parents who, with the law of kindness ever on their lips, train their children wisely, lovingly, patiently, are preparing them for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love Him. The children grow up obedient and respectful, prepared to bear the burdens that will come to them.  {18MR 119.4}
[18MR 119.5]          The heart is the citadel of the being. Fathers and mothers, by faithful instruction guard the hearts of your children against evil. Forget not the subtlety of the enemy, who seeks to gain entrance into the heart, that he may                                        -120-     take possession of the whole being. Once firmly seated on the throne of the heart, no human power can cast him from his stronghold.  {18MR 119.5}
[18MR 120.1]          The Heart-searcher knows the cruel power of the enemy and the weakness of the human heart. He knows how untiringly the enemy seeks to gain control of children and youth, and how often he is aided in his efforts by the neglect of fathers and mothers. Oh, how many families there are where the children, their temporal needs abundantly supplied, are allowed to grow up without a knowledge of the Saviour. Their spiritual needs are neglected. God is not in the home. His place is filled by the enemy.  {18MR 120.1}
[18MR 120.2]          Oh, parents, give your children wise, patient care, that they may grow up to be noble men and women, and then, when they end this life they may lie down to rest, knowing that in the morning of the resurrection they will rise to newness of life.--Ms 160, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 120.2}
[18MR 121.1]       MR No. 1317 - The Home Life         Husband and wife are to be faithful to each other so long as life shall last, ever revealing the self-sacrifice that leads to the truest happiness and the highest perfection of character. The husband is to be the houseband of the family, the priest of his home. The wife is to respect and love her husband, and he is to love and cherish his wife.  {18MR 121.1}
[18MR 121.2]          ［Ephesians 5:15-21, quoted.］        This is the only way in which husband and wife can glorify God in their united life. ［Ephesians 5:22-29, quoted.］  {18MR 121.2}
[18MR 121.3]          The gospel--how precious it is! How important that it be presented to all! Rightly received, rightly understood, it makes all who receive it children of God, members of one family, giving them free access to Him as their Father. Those who receive the gospel are not self-centered. They love one another with an unselfish love. They allow nothing to bring in contention and strife. All heaven is pleased to aid them in their effort "to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord" ［Ephesians 3:9-11］.  {18MR 121.3}
[18MR 121.4]          This is the standard that men and women are to reach in the home life. Husband and wife are to be one in Christ, and as children are born to them they                                          -122-     are to be regarded as a sacred trust, to be carefully trained for the Lord, taught to live pure, holy lives.  {18MR 121.4}
[18MR 122.1]          Parents can be ministers for Christ in the training of their children. The education of a child begins in its earliest years. From its babyhood it is to be taught to obey. To teach their children this lesson, parents must themselves live in obedience to the Word of God. Parents, teach your children to do what you tell them. And from the grief you experience when they disregard your wishes, learn how you grieve and disappoint Christ when you disobey Him. The effort to bring your children up in the right way will teach you many valuable lessons in regard to your duty to obey the Word of God.  {18MR 122.1}
[18MR 122.2]          Teach your children to repeat the commandment, "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." Tell them that to honor their parents means to love them, to listen to their teachings, and obey their requirements. Be sure that what you ask of your children is in accordance with God's will.  {18MR 122.2}
[18MR 122.3]          The Lord's command to children to obey their parents holds its force until the parents require of the children something that is not in harmony with His commands. The children are then to obey God rather than their parents. The Lord does not ask children to obey their parents when obedience to them would mean disobedience to Him.  {18MR 122.3}
[18MR 122.4]          Parents, do not keep money-making before your children as the great object of life. Tell them that the formation of a Christlike character is worth more than all else. Tell them that they are Christ's blood-bought heritage, and that He desires them to live happy, useful lives, honoring the Lord and helping those around them.                                          -123-  {18MR 122.4}
[18MR 123.1]          Always treat your children with respect. You will find that they are most easily and successfully governed by gentleness. Do not allow them to disobey, but repress all harshness in yourself; for harshness always arouses stubbornness and resistance. Do not deal with them in a way that will make them more perverse. Treat them as you would wish to be treated were you in their place. How can parents expect their children to be won to Christ when they themselves, claiming to be His followers, are harsh and severe?  {18MR 123.1}
[18MR 123.2]          All heaven is interested in your home. God and Christ and the heavenly angels are intensely desirous that you shall so train your children that they will be prepared to enter the family of the redeemed. Are you teaching them to be loyal to Christ? Remember that they are the younger members of God's family.  {18MR 123.2}
[18MR 123.3]          Are you bringing into the home the transforming power of the grace of Christ? Are you making the church in your home an object lesson that will help other parents to fulfill God's purpose for them? Are you teaching your children to live Christlike lives, so that they will know how to conduct themselves in the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those who have prepared themselves to receive a welcome into the courts above?--Ms 161, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 123.3}
[18MR 124.1]       MR No. 1318 - Blessed Peace, But Not Healing, Received Through Season of Prayer            (Diary entry January 1, 1902, written in Nashville, Tennessee.)          I thank my heavenly Father the first day of this New Year that in His merciful kindness He has graciously spared my life that has been in apparent peril. Many prayers have ascended to God in my behalf. There have been several periods of such severe affliction that I thought I could not live through the day. I have been gaining in strength for several days. I have not dared to tax my strength, fearing the result. If the Lord gives me His grace I may be able to communicate some things I greatly desire to those who shall assemble at this gathering of the Southern Union Conference. But I am afraid to move unadvisedly. I have had such strong intimations of sudden death I will not be presumptuous.  {18MR 124.1}
[18MR 124.2]          But I must say unto you that trials will come to me and to others, for I have been instructed ［that］ there will be men and women who are not always wise because they are not sanctified through the truth, and they will not behave judiciously. They will walk and work unwisely, and there will be those who will corrupt the doctrines we now hold. If reproved they will falsify and misstate the words spoken. Publications will be multiplied, and the world will be warned. But dangers are before us all now in the field. Not one third of the working force of men and women we have in the field are rooted and grounded in the faith, and to be trusted.                                          -125-  {18MR 124.2}
[18MR 125.1]          I felt in my soul it would be a great privilege for me to call together a few of the old tried servants of God and engage in united prayer for the help and strength I so much needed. I followed out the earnest wish of my heart. All present, ministering brethren, united in prayer. The Lord indited those prayers. We were so glad Brother Butler was present to engage with us in prayer. I realized it was a most precious season, and I felt that Christ was present. A sweet fragrance was sensibly realized by me, and I am sure those present must have felt the deep influence of the Holy Spirit. I felt that the canopy of God was over me. I could say fully, Whether I live or die it is well, it is well, with my soul. My life is hid with Christ in God.  {18MR 125.1}
[18MR 125.2]          Sweet peace pervaded my soul, and my heart was at rest in the hope and faith of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I had taken hold of His strength, and my peace was as a river, and yet I was not healed of my suffering. But I could rest in perfect security, for Christ was my hope, my Redeemer, my life, and the crown of my rejoicing. I had a most grateful feeling to my Saviour, a sense of His love and protection, as though I could trust in Him without one misgiving in regard to the much dreaded homeward journey. The face of my loved Saviour was so clearly manifested to me, looking upon me in sympathy and saying, with His hands outspread, "Peace be unto you."  {18MR 125.2}
[18MR 125.3]          My fear left me, and Christ seemed close by my side, giving me His assurance of His sustaining grace. My whole source of help was in Christ Jesus. How sweet was the peace that flowed into my soul, the comfort of repeating the scriptures when suffering much pain in the wakeful hours of the night! I could appreciate and repeat the promises, the comforting, hopeful words, over and over again. Oh, I have felt so secure since that season of prayer! The Word of God alone is my sufficiency. My hope is in God.                                         -126-  {18MR 125.3}
[18MR 126.1]          We all have one chart to guide us in the way to heaven. We need to learn that we must practice our prayers in order to realize the virtue of prayer and of pure speech. In the practical work before us, around us on every side, we have by faith in Christ's strength to do our best for ourselves in drawing nigh to God, for have we not the promise that God will respond and draw nigh unto us? And then we have the blessed assurance ［that］ we may be a help to all those who are brought within the sphere of our influence.  {18MR 126.1}
[18MR 126.2]          The Lord has given us His grace to be developed in good works. We are to be so closely in the companionship of Christ that by beholding His image through His word we may represent Christ. In manifesting His tenderness and His love to all with whom we associate, we set forth Jesus Christ in practical good words and works, and are saying, This is the way, walk ye in it." We are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men."--Ms 220, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 126.2}
[18MR 127.1]       MR No. 1319 - To God Be the Glory; Forsake All Idols         "God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God" (Psalms 62:11). God hath manifested His truth after speaking it from Sinai. He hath again spoken by His Son, and by a most wonderful experiment --by a living representation in Jesus Christ--hath made known the grand truth that "power belongeth unto God."  {18MR 127.1}
[18MR 127.2]          The world accepts the theories of men, the science that is put forth. A vast number are skeptical when God speaks from His Word, but there is in this period of history great credulity when some learned man speaks. The power of human minds giving explanations of science is so marvelously increasing in these last days that man is seeking to find a natural cause for everything he sees and hears. This false science is termed higher education, and men are lifted up in their own human importance, extolling their own natural abilities, full of all they see and hear.  {18MR 127.2}
[18MR 127.3]          There is no such thing as a miracle, ［they say］. The men chosen of God and precious will let God speak for Himself in regard to miracles, for the Lord will not work miracles to gratify human curiosity. Let the truth of God convert the man and he becomes as a little child, and bows in humble submission to the divine will--heart, mind, strength, and soul--in humble reverence for Jesus Christ and the Omnipotent Power. He is as a man born again. Mercy and the love of God are a controlling power. The beholding of the grace and glory of the Lord Jesus and his own littleness in contrast does not overwhelm him, for he                                        -128-     becomes changed as he is beholding and the impress is made upon his mind, "He is my salvation; He is my covering." Christ's glory is transforming his character.  {18MR 127.3}
[18MR 128.1]          This is the highest miracle that can be wrought. This is a specimen case. The Holy Ghost working in mind and heart and will is for the observance and example of what God can do for all who will submit themselves earnestly to be worked, availing themselves of any and every opportunity to learn God's will, and to ponder and do His will. The fruits appear--real fruits--to bear witness of the divine life, the genuine instincts of the newborn soul. These are not ashamed to wait on the Lord.  {18MR 128.1}
[18MR 128.2]          The words of light, of inspiration, shine from the Word weighty with heavenly assurance. God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. When God works to prepare a soul, it is brought in connection with those who are reconciled to God. "As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God" ［John 1:12］. No longer is it a dreadful thought that "He doeth according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth" ［Daniel 4:35］.  {18MR 128.2}
[18MR 128.3]          It is not God's will that we stumble over one another or that we be deficient in understanding the Lord's mighty works. Because of limited spiritual experience we cannot take in His marvelous works. We must be content to do our best and ［be］ determined to work upward to be overcomers, not downward to be defeated and overcome of Satan's devices.  {18MR 128.3}
[18MR 128.4]          All power belongeth to God. He "so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." None are so happy and entirely safe as those who have that                                         -129-     faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Christ's hands were pierced for our sakes. He loves us, and He means that we shall have a better estimate of His work if we will only be teachable.  {18MR 128.4}
[18MR 129.1]          Every heart emptied of self will have the quickening energy of the Holy Spirit. It is now that some are being worked by satanic agencies. Mark the fruit. The whole life is one of ambitious determination to carry out their own plans and purposes, to do a special work to exalt themselves. God puts to them the challenge, "Choose ye this day whom ye will serve. If it be God, serve Him; if Baal, serve him." But some have been fixing themselves for a long time by a species of deception and misrepresentation and prevarication, because they have not turned from their idols to serve the living and true God.  {18MR 129.1}
[18MR 129.2]          It is not necessary to bow down to a stock or a stone to serve idols. Whatever takes possession of the heart, commanding its service, that is not the dictation of the Holy Spirit, assumes the form of an idol. How many hearts through a wrong course of allowing the mind to become concentrated upon a certain course of action to distinguish self, will come under the head of covetousness, which is idolatry!  {18MR 129.2}
[18MR 129.3]          In order to obtain money, or to be first, some will betray the most precious cause of truth. There is an intense spirit that takes possession of mind and character. A man turns his whole being into accomplishing some great thing; an unquenchable thirst takes possession of the whole man to obtain money and spread himself as did Nebuchadnezzar. He wants glory to himself. He will bind up with worldly men and forsake the fountain of living waters. Nothing but the humbling of his soul to the light of the Word of God, and the Sun of                                        -130-     Righteousness penetrating every chamber of his moral being, will break the fog and the dense darkness he has gathered about his soul.  {18MR 129.3}
[18MR 130.1]          There is a lack with some men of thorough decision and defined positions as to what is truth. Nothing but most earnest, clear, determined decision, and full surrender to God, will break the spell. With some their own course of action in thought and purpose is deciding their eternal destiny. Some have become confused by a continued course of action of men in responsible positions, because they know them not to be true and decided for truth and righteousness. Do they turn from idols which they have created? No, no. Old habits come in and are invited to stay and rule the heart.  {18MR 130.1}
[18MR 130.2]          The tempter presents matters in such a very seducing way that men love the presentation. Satan says, as he did to Adam and Eve, "Ye shall be as gods," and the poor souls come under Satan's mesmeric influence, and they are among the number of those who depart from the faith and begin to weave them beautiful allurements to charm the senses. They love and adore nature, talk science, and all is a fine gossamer picture, pleasing to the fancy of the worldly but an abomination in the sight of the Lord. Each heart has its own idol unless that heart is cleansed. It loves, adores, and worships the beautiful theories spun, but there is death in these things.  {18MR 130.2}
[18MR 130.3]         I ask men here in this congregation. What are you worshiping? Are you converted? Do you profess to believe the truth of Daniel and Revelation? Have you become nearly insane over your own specious theories? Has the living God taken possession of heart, mind, and soul? Have you been critically examining your own life by the Word of God, and has it had its influence to break you                                         -131-     from the idolatry and imagery you have framed to make of none effect the Word of the living God?  {18MR 130.3}
[18MR 131.1]          We are now come to the point where we have to make a decision as to who shall be entrusted with our sanitariums, to educate our youth in Bible doctrines. We are painfully conscious of the fact that the present truth for this time is being made of none effect by specious words and deceiving illusions.  {18MR 131.1}
[18MR 131.2]          I tell you in the name of the Lord God of Israel, while He has in great mercy and love tried to call men to repentance, the temper, the style of words, and the actions emphasize distinctly that old habits are retained. Former lusts and objects fill the heart. The tenor of action shows ［that］ the Lord Jesus is not molding and fashioning the character. There is want of Christlikeness. The stamp of the world is upon the man in precept and example. It cannot be said intelligently and truly that from them sounded the word of the Lord so that we need not to speak anything. The whole appearance of the man is bearing the worldly stamp. There is a vagueness, an undefined expression, a turning, an uncertainty. It cannot be said in answer full and clear, distinct and comprehensive, Ye turned away from your idols to God.  {18MR 131.2}
[18MR 131.3]          In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, we now call upon all who have been in this position to consider and inquire, Am I working for Christ or the devil? God would have every man so thoroughly identified with the Word of the living God--which means true faith in the last message of mercy, the last call to sinners given to our world--that we shall demonstrate in character that we are one with Christ, that we share in the very same love that Christ expressed, that the Father loves the believing ones even as He loves His Son. He has become a                                        -132-     partaker of His peace, His joy, His glory. This determines our true loyalty to God. It involves the highest possible measurement of character, of Christlikeness. ［Ephesians 1:3-7, quoted.］  {18MR 131.3}
[18MR 132.1]          It is the purpose of God to glorify Himself through His representatives. In this present world and throughout the eternal ages God will reveal what He will do through His believing children. He will display His glory as He acknowledges them before the whole universe of heaven and all created intelligences. The Lord will give us all the exaltation that we deserve.--Ms 224, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 132.1}
[18MR 133.1]       MR No. 1321 - God's Unchangeable Law         Throughout the ages God's law will endure. In His Sermon on the Mount Christ said, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. 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."  {18MR 133.1}
[18MR 133.2]          ［In essence Jesus was saying］, "I have not come to destroy the law, but to show its immutability, and the holiness of its claims. God could not change His law to meet man in his fallen condition. By suffering the penalty of transgression, I will redeem the race. I have become man's Substitute and Surety. I have taken human nature, and have come to this earth to pass over the ground where Adam stumbled and fell. In humanity I will bear the test and proving of God.  {18MR 133.2}
[18MR 133.3]          "Satan has declared that man cannot keep the law. I will show that his statement is false, that man can keep the law. I have come to remove deception from the minds of men, to make plain that which Satan is trying to make obscure. I have come to establish the law that Satan is seeking to make void, to show how far-reaching are the principles of this law. I have come to strip from it the burdensome exactions with which man has loaded it down. I have come to show its length and breadth, its dignity and nobility. I will open before men the purity and spirituality of God's commandments. Not to introduce a new law have I come,                                        -134-     but to establish the law which to all eternity will be the standard of obedience."  {18MR 133.3}
[18MR 134.1]          For the benefit of future generations, Christ made plain the meaning of the precepts of God's law. Himself the author of this law, He proclaimed its immutability, declaring that while God's throne remained, His law would also remain. Not the least part of it would ever be annulled. "One jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." In these positive terms Christ declares the immutability of the law. His words leave no room for doubt or evasion.  {18MR 134.1}
[18MR 134.2]          Some claim that the  commandments are not binding on those who are led by the Spirit. "What spirit?" we inquire. Certainly not the Spirit of Christ; for He declared, "I came not to destroy the law." "Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments," He said, "and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven." He is a rebel against God's government. He is sinning himself, and is leading others in the path of disobedience. "He shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven." For him there will be no place in God's kingdom. He is a transgressor of God's law, and into the holy city no transgressors are admitted.  {18MR 134.2}
[18MR 134.3]          "But whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."  {18MR 134.3}
[18MR 134.4]          God has given us a test by which all may be tried. "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］.  {18MR 134.4}
[18MR 134.5]         In the clear light of the Word of God, we may read plainly the meaning of sin. John declares that sin is "the transgression of the law." Paul tells us that he had not known sin but by the law; when the commandment came home to his                                        -135-     conscience, he saw sin in its true character, and he died to sin to live unto Christ.  {18MR 134.5}
[18MR 135.1]          Those who belittle the claims of the law are warring against Jehovah. Unless they repent, they will be dealt with as were the inhabitants of the old world. Those who array themselves against the law, array themselves against Christ, giving the lie to His positive declarations. They betray the Son of man while professing to exalt the gospel.  {18MR 135.1}
[18MR 135.2]          Cannot men see that to belittle the law of God is to reproach Christ? Why did He come to this world to suffer and die if the law is not binding on men and women? Who could have spoken more plainly than He did regarding the immutability of the law? He came to bring light and immortality to light by exalting the law and making it honorable. Where can be found those who preach the binding claims of God's law more plainly and decidedly than did Christ when He was upon the earth?  {18MR 135.2}
[18MR 135.3]          False teachers are trying to lead men away from obedience to the law of God. Let all beware of whose voice they heed. God is calling His people into the path of His commandments.  {18MR 135.3}
[18MR 135.4]          Those who claim to be light-bearers, and yet take sides with Satan in putting human laws in the place of God's law, are the most dangerous of all rebels against God's government. They are Satan's most useful agents in leading souls into darkness. In their deception they carry with them a multitude of souls.  {18MR 135.4}
[18MR 135.5]          There are those who hold up the difference between the law and the gospel. But between the law and the gospel there is no contradiction, but the closest union. They are in perfect harmony. One does not supersede the other. The law points to the gospel, while the gospel reflects its glory on the law and on the                                        -136-     whole Jewish economy, revealing Christ in every offering. The animals daily slain at the tabernacle--the victims of sin--pointed to the Lamb of God, who was to be slain for the sin of the world, not to save sinners in their sin, but from sin, and to lead them to loyalty to God's law.  {18MR 135.5}
[18MR 136.1]          One who has authority has borne testimony regarding the law of God. It is the word of Him who spake as never man spake. Throughout the universe His word is law. It is the end of all controversy in heaven and earth. Let God be true, and every man a liar.  {18MR 136.1}
[18MR 136.2]          From everyone God demands perfect obedience. Of himself, man cannot obey God's law. Never could he have paid the debt incurred by transgression. The Redeemer came to the world to bring man power to obey. He came in human nature that He might know the temptations and trials to which man is subjected. He who accepts Christ as a personal Saviour will receive divine aid in the struggle against sin. Through the merits of the Saviour he will become an obedient subject of God's kingdom. In the strength of Christ he will overcome every temptation of the enemy.  {18MR 136.2}
[18MR 136.3]          In the day of judgment ［when］ those who are now uniting with the enemy in an effort to destroy the foundation of God's government are brought face to face with the false statements they have made, with what remorse they will look upon their work. They will see what a fearful mistake they have made. God will ask, "Who hath required this at your hands? Why have you placed this affront upon the Majesty of heaven? Why have you thrown down My memorial of creation, exalting in its stead a day I have not sanctified?" What can they say in excuse for cooperating with the enemy to break the law of Jehovah?--Ms 51, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 136.3}
[18MR 137.1]       MR No. 1322 - Fragments         The Work of God's Servants. God's true servants will not be ashamed of the banner of truth, however unpopular it may be. They will not hold their peace from proclaiming the truth in all places. Throughout the world they will herald the glad tidings of salvation. They will be missionaries for God, for the truth's sake facing danger, enduring privation, suffering reproach.  {18MR 137.1}
[18MR 137.2]          The third angel is represented as flying swiftly through the midst of heaven, proclaiming his message with a loud voice. This representation symbolizes the work of God's agencies near the end of time. With joyful countenances and uplifted heads, with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shining upon them, with rejoicing that their redemption draweth nigh, they go forth as soldiers of the cross.  {18MR 137.2}
[18MR 137.3]          They make it manifested that they have tasted the power of the world to come, that they are not standing on sliding sand, but on the solid Rock, that they cannot be easily moved away from the faith once delivered to the saints. They are strengthened by their Leader to cope with difficulty, and are messengers of righteousness, representing Christ and revealing the triumphs of His grace.  {18MR 137.3}
[18MR 137.4]          There are men and women of refinement and education who will throw the whole weight of their influence on the Lord's side, who, ignoring worldly interests and parting with friends, will go forth to proclaim the unsearchable riches of Christ. Their lives show the world that in Christianity there is a                                          -138-     power that exalts the character in righteousness and true holiness. Through them the gospel is seen to be the power of God unto salvation.  {18MR 137.4}
[18MR 138.1]          Heroes of Faith. From age to age, the heroes of faith have been marked by their fidelity to God. They have been brought conspicuously before the world in order that their light might shine forth to those in darkness.  {18MR 138.1}
[18MR 138.2]          Bending the Mind. You may bend a twig to almost any form you desire. Bend it, and let it grow bent, and soon it will resist all effort to straighten it. So it is with the mind. In childhood easily bent in the right direction or the wrong, it is in manhood almost proof against change. The habits formed in childhood grow with the growth and strengthen with the strength.  {18MR 138.2}
[18MR 138.3]          The Christian's Winter. If we had perpetual summer, we should not value as we do now its bright days and beautiful flowers. Through the winter months we look forward to the time when summer with its beauty will once more gladden the earth.  {18MR 138.3}
[18MR 138.4]          So it is with the Christian life. We are pilgrims and strangers on the earth. Our sojourn here is as it were the Christian's winter. But our faith and hope reach forward and upward to the better life, to the home that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love Him. "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."  {18MR 138.4}
[18MR 138.5]          "To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne." There are many things to be overcome. Day by day the battle goes on. The struggle is lifelong; for Satan watches every opportunity to take advantage of us, that he may ensnare us to our ruin.                                        -139-  {18MR 138.5}
[18MR 139.1]          "Resist the devil." Be not seduced by his flattering presentations. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. All the good resolutions we make in our own strength are as ropes of sand. But when we come to God in sincerity, and give ourselves to Him, He will strengthen us to stand against the wiles of the enemy. In the power of Jesus Christ, resist the enemy, and he will flee from you.  {18MR 139.1}
[18MR 139.2]          In humble, trustful dependence make known your wants to your heavenly Father. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Every step you take toward God is taken in response to the drawing of the Holy Spirit.  {18MR 139.2}
[18MR 139.3]          We are on test and trial. Satan is playing the game of life for our souls. No matter what may be our inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong, we can overcome through the power that God gives. The Holy Spirit is our Helper. "As He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation, because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy."  {18MR 139.3}
[18MR 139.4]          The Scriptures declare, "Ye cannot serve God and mammon." He who tries to serve God and the world is unstable in all his ways. He cannot be trusted. His words may be fair, he may be professedly righteous, but in heart he is deceptive and deceitful, a rebel against God.  {18MR 139.4}
[18MR 139.5]          "Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness." It is right to be cheerful and joyful. But words of jesting and joking, of lightness and trifling, show that the profession of Christianity is not genuine. The hearts of those who speak such words need to be purified. They need to show genuine sorrow for sin. What virtue is there in the religion that leads to the words, "Christ has pardoned my sins, and there is no need for me to resist temptation"? John declares, "Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure."                                        -140-  {18MR 139.5}
[18MR 140.1]          Can a human being remove from his heart one stain of sin? No. Looking into the law of God, he sees himself a sinner; but he has no power to cleanse himself from sin. Only by faith in Christ can he be purified. He is the one who takes away the sin 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."  {18MR 140.1}
[18MR 140.2]          Talents. The slothful servant hid in the earth the talent given him for wise improvement. Just what he did many today are doing. He gave back to the Lord the talent he had received. But with this the Lord was not satisfied. He required more than this. He held the slothful servant accountable for the talents he might have possessed. Every provision had been made for him to increase in knowledge. But he did not recognize God's claim on his time, his influence, his capabilities.  {18MR 140.2}
[18MR 140.3]          It is God's purpose that the soul shall continually progress in knowledge and virtue. For this Christ clothed His divinity with humanity. For this He came to the earth and lived a life filled with suffering and privation.  {18MR 140.3}
[18MR 140.4]          The denunciation of God is not confined to the most revolting sins. So far is this from being the case that in the day of judgment reference will  not be especially made to the actual transgressions, but to the neglect of doing what might have been done but was not done because of a lack of the qualifications that Christ died to place within the reach of everyone.  {18MR 140.4}
[18MR 140.5]          The servants and the talents belong to God. "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." Your capabilities and powers are a purchased possession. You are to train the mind to think right thoughts, the tongue to speak right words,                                         -141-     the eye to see right things. The heart is to be cleansed and purified, that it may be an abiding place for Christ.  {18MR 140.5}
[18MR 141.1]          Remember that God has given to every man according to his several ability. Whether his powers be few or many, they are to be devoted to God's service. The Lord expects everyone to use his ability in doing good. He who does not improve his talents is regarded by the Lord as a slothful, untrustworthy servant, unworthy of admittance into the heavenly courts. The good he might have done, the good that Christ gave His life to make it possible for him to do, he did not do. He has disappointed the Master. Upon him must fall the penalty of failing to fulfill God's purpose. Busied during his lifetime with the things of self, he forgot God.  {18MR 141.1}
[18MR 141.2]          Take the case of a man who claims to know the truth, but who neglects the duty plainly specified in the Word of God. He does not watch and pray. He does not make the Lord his Counsellor. He becomes self-sufficient, acting as if his wisdom and strength and knowledge were sufficient for his needs. He fails to improve his talents, disqualifying himself for the sphere of usefulness he might have filled in the Lord's work.  {18MR 141.2}
[18MR 141.3]          From him will be required the good he might have done, but did not do. Through his unfaithfulness, souls are lost. God holds him responsible for the evil resulting from his neglect, for the souls he might have saved had he been faithful to his trust.  {18MR 141.3}
[18MR 141.4]          "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." The harvest is sure. No frost shall blight it, no palmerworm destroy it. The truth rejected becomes a savor of death unto death. Every hour spent in careless inaction, in indifference to God's claims, is an                                         -142-     hour lost forever. Every opportunity allowed to pass unimproved means an eternal loss.  {18MR 141.4}
[18MR 142.1]          "Go forward. Act your part as My stewards to prepare a people to stand in the great crisis just before us." Should not the man to whom the Lord speaks thus, strive to make his words and deeds correspond with the trust laid upon him? Should he not strive constantly to reach the standard God has set before him, steadily advancing in the path of holiness and unswerving fidelity?  {18MR 142.1}
[18MR 142.2]          The Result of True Conversion. ［1 John 2:1-6, quoted.］ When true conversion takes place, there is a transformation of character. Christlikeness is seen. Pride no longer rules the heart.  {18MR 142.2}
[18MR 142.3]          To every son and every daughter of God some work has been assigned, some part of the Lord's vineyard to cultivate. Growth in grace is shown by an increased ability to work for God. He who learns in the school of Christ will know how to pray and speak for the Master. Realizing that he lacks wisdom and experience, he places himself under the training of the great Teacher, knowing that only thus can he attain perfection in God's service. And daily he becomes better able to comprehend spiritual things. Every day of diligent labor finds him at its close better fitted to help others. Abiding in Christ, he bears much fruit.  {18MR 142.3}
[18MR 142.4]          Jesus is a risen Saviour. He is our Advocate in the heavenly courts. As soon as the sinner sees his sin in the light of God's Word, and repents, seeking with contrition of soul for pardon, the Lord hears and answers. The clearer our view of Jesus, the clearer is our view of our own weakness. Those who behold Him realize their inability to do anything good without His help. They say, "In my hands no price I bring; simply to Thy cross I cling." They bow in adoration                                          -143-     before God at the thought of the wonderful provision made to take away the sin of the world.  {18MR 142.4}
[18MR 143.1]          There is only one way to heaven. Christ declares, "I am the Way." When the Saviour spoke these words, He declared that the gulf between heaven and earth had been bridged, and that man, though he had wandered far from God, could return and be accepted in the Beloved.  {18MR 143.1}
[18MR 143.2]          Achan's Sin. The standard of piety has been allowed to trail in the dust. Those who claim to be followers of God are following their own way instead of the way of God. They are false signboards, pointing in the wrong direction.  {18MR 143.2}
[18MR 143.3]          Achan thought it a very small matter to take the wedge of gold and the Babylonish garment--part of the spoil that the Lord had declared was to be utterly consumed. But what was to him a very small matter was in sight of the Lord a very serious matter. He had sinned against the Lord, and because of his sin the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel. The presence of the Lord was withdrawn from their armies; for God would not serve with sin. He permitted the enemy to triumph over them.  {18MR 143.3}
[18MR 143.4]          ［Joshua 7:5-13, quoted.］        The Lord desired to give Israel a lesson that they should never forget. ［Verses 14, 15-18, quoted.］  {18MR 143.4}
[18MR 143.5]         "And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confession unto Him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide it not from me."  {18MR 143.5}
[18MR 143.6]          Had Achan been punished without making a confession of his guilt, the people, ever ready to rebel, would have charged God with being unmerciful and severe. They would have reproached Joshua with harshness and severity.                                         -144-  {18MR 143.6}
[18MR 144.1]          "And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel. . . . When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they are hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it."  {18MR 144.1}
[18MR 144.2]          Let no one excuse his sin by saying, "It will not matter; it is only a little thing." That sin, small though it may seem to you, may cause the loss of a soul.  {18MR 144.2}
[18MR 144.3]          "They have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled." Let not the people of God today covet the things He has appointed to destruction. These things are a snare to the soul. They are cursed of God; for they lead to vanity and pride and self-exaltation.  {18MR 144.3}
[18MR 144.4]          The Need of Greater Earnestness. The work ought to have moved forward with a hundredfold more power than it has. Believers have themselves barred the way against its advancement by their lack of faith. They have limited the Lord God of heaven. Where there is now one at work, there should be hundreds, and there would be if men would trust God and obey His Word.  {18MR 144.4}
[18MR 144.5]          If all had been doers of the Word, a great work would have been done for the Master, zealously, faithfully, untiringly. Light has been given me that if the Lord's people do not strive more earnestly to make the truth of the Word of God more widely known, the Lord will raise up other instruments, who, in the spirit of John the Baptist, will do His work. Darkness has covered the earth, and gross darkness the people. But the Holy Spirit can speak and will speak to the hearts and minds of men. Those God chooses are taught of Him.  {18MR 144.5}
[18MR 144.6]          The Bible Our Guide. The Bible is our Guidebook, showing the way to heaven. It is the revelation of God's will. The value of this Word is beyond                                         -145-     estimate. It is the bread of life and the water of salvation to all who make it their study. What it means to be a Christian can be understood only by a careful and prayerful study of the Word of God.  {18MR 144.6}
[18MR 145.1]          In Christ's day the Gentiles had not the Word of God. Paul speaks of the Jews as having unmeasured advantage over the Gentiles, because to them had been committed the oracles of God.  {18MR 145.1}
[18MR 145.2]          Those who believe the Word of God as it reads are walking in the light; for the Bible is its own interpreter.  {18MR 145.2}
[18MR 145.3]          Many, without the help of any human being, will be converted by the teaching of God's Word. The great Teacher will impress their minds.  {18MR 145.3}
[18MR 145.4]          Even men who profess to be infidels, who will not admit the inspiration of the Bible, admire the beauty of its teaching.  {18MR 145.4}
[18MR 145.5]          The only means of purification is a knowledge of God. But how can we know Him if we do not study His Word?--Ms 53, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 145.5}
[18MR 146.1]       MR No. 1323 - Brief Writings on Short Scriptural Passages and Practical Christian Living         Go Forward. "Go forward" was the word given by God to give to the children of Israel as they stood before the Red Sea, hedged in by inaccessible mountains and pursued by Pharaoh. In obedience to the command they moved forward. Then the Lord worked for them. The waters of the sea parted and stood on one side of them like a mighty wall, leaving before them an open path. "And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground," and were safe. The enemy attempted to follow, but the arm that held back the waters was removed, and with resistless force the sea flowed on. "The waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen, and all the host of Pharaoh."  {18MR 146.1}
[18MR 146.2]          Trial. Christians must not be discouraged by trial and hardship. These they will surely have. They are a part of their legacy. If the Master left His heavenly home to come to a world where He was despised and rejected, shall we complain when trial comes to us in so many ways? Let us cheerfully partake with Christ of His suffering. Then we shall be partakers with Him of His glory.  {18MR 146.2}
[18MR 146.3]         "Be Pitiful, Be Courteous." He who is successful in His work for God must be courteous. Courtesy gains access to hearts. The worker for Christ must be to principle as firm as a rock, but at the same time he is to reveal the Saviour's gentleness. He is to be kind as well as true. He is to observe the weightier matters of the law, and he is also to observe the little proprieties of life. Christ desires our lives to be fragrant and refreshing, a blessing to                                          -147-     others. The Christian is to be true and honest, and yet kind and forbearing, pitiful and courteous.  {18MR 146.3}
[18MR 147.1]          Sanctification. What does it mean to be sanctified? It means an unreserved surrender to God, to know and do His will. It means to be heavenly minded, pure, unselfish, without spot or blemish.  {18MR 147.1}
[18MR 147.2]         "By their fruits ye shall know them." "Thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just." "All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits." There is not a motive in the depths of the heart, not a secret in the recesses of the soul, that He does not read.  {18MR 147.2}
[18MR 147.3]          Think of the years we have passed in careless indifference, without thought of service to God--years of self-seeking, when life was one long struggle against God's will and God's way.  {18MR 147.3}
[18MR 147.4]          In one scale is the perfect, changeless law of God, demanding obedience; in the other, sin, disobedience, departure from righteousness. Shall it be said of us, Weighed in the balances, and found wanting?  {18MR 147.4}
[18MR 147.5]          Backbiting. There are those who cherish a spirit of envy and hatred against their brethren, calling it the Spirit of God. There are those who go up and down as talebearers, accusing and condemning, blackening character, inspiring hearts with maliciousness. They carry false reports to the doors of their neighbors, who, as they listen to the slander, lose the Spirit of God. Not even the messenger of God, who bears to the people His truth, is spared.  {18MR 147.5}
[18MR 147.6]          This sin is worse than the sin of Achan. Its influence is not confined to those who cherish it. It is a root of bitterness, whereby many are defiled. God cannot bless the church till it is purged of this evil that corrupts minds and spirits, the souls of those who do not repent and change their course of action.                                         -148-  {18MR 147.6}
[18MR 148.1]          He who is renewed after the Spirit of Christ will not only love God, he will love his brethren also. Those who make mistakes are to be dealt with according to the directions given in the Word of God. "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" ［Galatians 6:1］.  {18MR 148.1}
[18MR 148.2]          Plainly and faithfully evil is to be reproved. But let the one who takes up this work first be sure that he is not himself separated from Christ by evil works. He must be able to restore the erring in the spirit of meekness. Unless he can do this, he should not attempt to correct or reprove his brethren, for he will make two evils in the place of curing one.  {18MR 148.2}
[18MR 148.3]          Let men be careful how they treat the purchase of the blood of Christ. Let them not forget the prayer offered by the Saviour just before He left His disciples for the long struggle in the Garden of Gethsemane. Let them not forget the high estimate He has placed on human beings by purchasing them at the sacrifice of His life.  {18MR 148.3}
[18MR 148.4]          There are many who seem willing to wound and bruise the hearts of their brethren. Are they following the example Christ has left them? Where in the record of His dealing with men do they find themselves sustained in showing so little forbearance and patience in dealing with their brethren? Have they forgotten the words, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another" ［John 13:34, 35］? That which distinguishes Christians from worldlings is the manifestation of Christlikeness, which by its pure influence cleanses the heart from selfishness.  {18MR 148.4}
[18MR 148.5]          Christ hates sin. From Him evil met with stern rebuke. But while He hates                                         -149-     sin, He loves the sinner. Laying aside His riches and glory, He came to this earth to seek after us, sinful, erring, unhappy, that He might lead us to heed His words, and, through obedience, heaven. He humbled Himself, and took upon Him our nature, that He might make us like Himself, pure and upright, free from the defilement of sin. He suffered more than any of us will be called to suffer. He gave His all for you. What have you given Him?  {18MR 148.5}
[18MR 149.1]          The knowledge of God's truth has been committed to you, not for you to quarrel over, but to fit you to be light-bearers to the world. According to the ability given you will be the returns required by the Master. What have you done to persuade men to accept the precious truth? All around you are those for whom Christ has died, that they might be pure, holy, sinless. Has your life been filled with good works? Have you in meekness and faith sowed in the hearts of those with whom you are brought in contact, seeds that will bring forth fruit unto righteousness?  {18MR 149.1}
[18MR 149.2]         How much more strength the Lord's people would have if they loved Him supremely and their neighbor as themselves! On how much higher ground they would stand if they followed on to know the Lord! They have many lessons to learn in the school of Christ before they will be prepared to enter heaven. Many are through practice educating themselves to be oppressive where they should be kind. Their sharpness makes them unskillful in dealing with human minds.  {18MR 149.2}
[18MR 149.3]          Christ's life on earth was an expression of pure religion. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Those who believe in Him receive power to become the sons of God. They are no more of the world; they have come out from the world. The world knows them not, because it knew not their Master.  {18MR 149.3}
[18MR 149.4]          By blameless lives they show that they are sons of God. They are living                                      -150-     examples of Christlikeness. They are Christians, because they are like Christ, because they abide in Him. They are light-bearers to the world. Because they are willing and obedient, they are led into all truth.  {18MR 149.4}
[18MR 150.1]          Our words and works are to be channels through which the principles of truth are conveyed to the world. Those who do not cultivate personal piety can not be lights in the world, but bodies of darkness. Those who allow themselves to be dictatorial, who accuse and judge their brethren, seeking with unsanctified heart and unholy temper to mend their wrongs, drive souls from God. Such believers are a source of weakness to the Lord's work, for they are not abiding in Christ.  {18MR 150.1}
[18MR 150.2]          Do not think that you show love for one another by allowing that which God condemns. Do not let sin strengthen in the church. God requires His servants to exercise faithful watchcare. But be sure to manifest Christ's love. Go to the erring one, and pray with him. Draw him to Jesus. Press together, heart bound to heart in the love of Christ. Then will be seen in the church the mighty power of God. Then many souls will be brought to the truth. There is to be a decided work done of purification of leading men who need to be true as steel to principle. God would not justify any man to place himself as dictator ［over］ what others must do when ［he］ himself needs the converting grace of Christ, else he will place many souls in false paths.  {18MR 150.2}
[18MR 150.3]         Asking Help From God. When men in their human wisdom frame something new and strange to present to the churches, they show that they need to learn of Christ and obtain the knowledge that is according to the faith which is in Jesus Christ. What is the chaff to the wheat? Of what value are the theories of human production when compared with the truths of God's Word? Of what value are the words falling from lips untouched by a living coal from God's altar?                                         -151-  {18MR 150.3}
[18MR 151.1]          There are those who present to the people of God fables and suppositions which they declare they must accept or perish in their sins. Let God's people pray to Him for clear spiritual discernment, that they may distinguish the theories of men from the Word of the living God. Let them study the Scriptures. Why do they not, with Bible in hand and on bended knee, ask for the presence of the Holy Spirit, that they may have wisdom and understanding? Precious will be the experience thus gained.  {18MR 151.1}
[18MR 151.2]          It is the right of every soul to ask much of God. Do not make the words of men your standard. "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. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed."  {18MR 151.2}
[18MR 151.3]          He who asks help from God, and then, forgetting the Lord's promise, asks for human help, puts a slight on the Saviour. He shows that he is not willing to trust himself in God's hands, that he does not believe that God will do as He has promised. He is like the restless waves, driven with the wind and tossed.  {18MR 151.3}
[18MR 151.4]          With the rich assurances of God's Word before us, let us ask in childlike faith, believing that we shall receive, because God's word is Yea and Amen in Christ Jesus. Are you a child of God? Then trust your heavenly Father. Believe that God means what He says. "Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say rejoice." "Let your moderation be known unto all men."  {18MR 151.4}
[18MR 151.5]          Do not doubt the Lord's word because an answer is not immediately returned. Doubt not the promise, "The Lord is at hand." "Be careful for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God," remembering the word, "The Lord is at hand." "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds                                         -152-     through Christ Jesus."  {18MR 151.5}
[18MR 152.1]          "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." Will those who have been tossed about by temptation and doubt remember these words? ［Colossians 3:12-15, 17, 23, 24, quoted.］--Ms 52. 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 152.1}
[18MR 153.1]       MR No. 1324 - Speaking Appointments At Camby, Michigan; Transaction Involving Property         (Written July 13, 1891, from Petoskey, Michigan, to W. C. White.)          Last Sabbath and Sunday I spent in Camby about thirty miles from here. Brother Huitt has been having meetings for about five weeks, and two members of the Methodist Church have become fully persuaded to keep the Sabbath, and other members of the same church are nearly decided.  {18MR 153.1}
[18MR 153.2]          Brother and Sister Matthews are worthy people who are about my age. They have children who are deeply convicted.  {18MR 153.2}
[18MR 153.3]         I spoke Sabbath afternoon with much freedom. Sunday afternoon the schoolhouse was crowded with intelligent men and women who listened with the deepest interest. I spoke thirty-five minutes Sunday evening to a houseful, and the prejudice that has existed is all gone.  {18MR 153.3}
[18MR 153.4]          Canright's books have been circulated freely, and there has been much talk; falsehood has been flourishing freely. Methodists and Baptists have worked earnestly, warned and threatened their people not to go and hear the Adventists, that it was at the peril of their souls if they should go and hear them. But they came from six to ten miles and manifested great interest.  {18MR 153.4}
[18MR 153.5]          I am glad I went. The trip did me good and I am feeling much better since I returned. Found your letter had been received, on my return, and have been to the same attorney and send you back deed signed, and all that is required.  {18MR 153.5}
[18MR 153.6]          The lawyer refused to take anything except the twenty-five cents he paid for certificate. I will not write all I would like to write. The question you                                         -154-     ask in reference to giving Miller possession, I do not now recollect what I had in mind. As nothing has been said to him about possession, I will not now say anything. Let him handle the matter as he chooses. I have no intentions that I know of; I have made no suggestions to Miller since the last agreement which was that I would give him $1300 (?) difference in trade.--Letter 84, 1891.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Letter.  {18MR 153.6}
[18MR 155.1]       MR No. 1325 - Perplexity Over Proposed Trip to Australia       (Portion of diary entry written at Harbor Springs, Mich., Aug. 5, 1891.)            This morning my mind is anxious and troubled in regard to my duty. Can it be the will of God that I go to Australia? This involves a great deal with me. I have not special light to leave America for this far-off country. Nevertheless if I knew it was the voice of God I would go. But I cannot understand this matter.  {18MR 155.1}
[18MR 155.2]          Some who are bearing responsibilities in America seem to be very persistent that my special work should be to go to Europe and to Australia. I finally did go to Europe and worked there in that new field with all the power of influence God had given me. My home and my goods in America became scattered, and I sustained much loss in this line. I offered my home for sale, and Dr. Kellogg purchased it. The price I received I needed, and it was a small price. I did wish it could have been double, for I had, with W. C. White, to open new fields, and I invested this means in school homes, in meeting- houses, and in opening new fields.  {18MR 155.2}
[18MR 155.3]         Marian Davis has been reading a chapter upon the Sabbath. The scribes and Pharisees were charging the Lord who made the Sabbath with transgression of the Sabbath. Oh, how blindly people will work! They acted as if they had put out their eyes. There were those who wished to carry the work in America in their own way, and these lost their bearings.--Ms 44, 1891.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 155.3}
[18MR 156.1]       MR No. 1326 - Testimony to Battle Creek Church         I am deeply concerned for our people in Battle Creek who are exalted to heaven in point of privileges, as was Capernaum in the days of Christ. While receiving from many sources great light, what must be their accountability before God to make the right use of the light given, to shine as lights in the world! How few are receiving educational advantages with a purpose before them to use the knowledge they obtain for the glory of God, to educate and enlighten others. The truth will triumph, but who of those that have had such great advantages to know the truth will triumph with it?  {18MR 156.1}
[18MR 156.2]          My heart burns within me as I see, as the Lord has shown me, what even one person may do who has given himself to God to be molded, to be fashioned, and to have the superscription of Christ upon him. Come out from the world and be separate and stand as God's peculiar people, in the world, but not of the world, pilgrims and strangers, seeking a better country, even an heavenly.  {18MR 156.2}
[18MR 156.3]          I want to say to the church in Battle Creek, there is much work to be done in missionary fields. This work men and women can engage in, bringing all their capabilities and all their education with them to do honor to God. Every ray of light, every important truth, is to be imparted to others; for not one child of God will live to himself. All the light God has given is to be diffused.  {18MR 156.3}
[18MR 156.4]          Why are there so few who feel any burden for the salvation of others? Because the professed Christians have not connected themselves with God. They have not walked in the light. They have not been doers of the words of Christ. There is pride of dress, pride of spirit, self-esteem, self-importance, that exclude them from the missionary field. It is a sad thing that where the most                                         -157-     light is given, as in Battle Creek, there should be marked departure from Bible simplicity in dress. Why is it? Should the missionaries go to foreign fields with all the objectionable features in dress, in want of piety, how would the religion of Christ appear?  {18MR 156.4}
[18MR 157.1]          There needs to be a thorough reformation in our churches. The converting power of God upon the heart would mold the life and would make a wonderful transformation in the line of dress. Oh, that every believer in the truth would have the mold and superscription of Christ. Oh, that all would represent the character of Christ in meekness and lowliness of heart. If indeed they have the truth abiding in the heart how can they be silent and not tell that which they know of the love of Jesus? The trouble is that many do not have Christ abiding in their hearts; they have not a saving faith, therefore light does not shine forth from them.  {18MR 157.1}
[18MR 157.2]          With such solemn truths as we are handling, with the signs fulfilling everywhere in our world to show that the end is near, the great crisis right upon us, the stupor, the lethargy, the pride and conformity to the world in dress and in spirit, is most astonishing. Famines, pestilences, earthquakes, storms by land and sea, are putting out the life of thousands, and this is only the beginning of that which is to come. How important that every church becomes a working force; especially should this be the case in Battle Creek at the great heart of the work. Here there should be maintained an example in modern, simple apparel.  {18MR 157.2}
[18MR 157.3]          All that go forth as missionaries should have the principle firmly established to keep clean off idolatry of dress; for dress is an idol; dress has established its sway over sensible human minds, and held its power so that it separates the soul from God. All these things are reasons why we do not have                                          -158-     more devoted, converted missionaries in our churches. They have suffered the world to set up its hellish banner between them and Jesus, so that it is impossible for them to represent Christ in self-denial.  {18MR 157.3}
[18MR 158.1]          Why do not those who claim to believe the truth show by their actions that they are sanctified through the truth, and not conformed to the world? Why do they not come out from the world and be separate? The time for us to represent the self-denial, the purity, and holiness of our religion is today. The time will soon pass when we can individually deny self daily, and take up the cross and follow Jesus.  {18MR 158.1}
[18MR 158.2]          Oh, when I think what the church in Battle Creek might be if they were only Christians, what good influences they might exert if they only followed the Lord Jesus fully, I am bowed to the earth with a weight of sorrow I cannot express, because I know that the large number who expend all their earnings in dress, in attending concerts, in administering to their own pleasure, are not Christians. They have not the mark of God's people. They have not the meekness and lowliness of Christ, thus cannot shine as lights in the world. They conform to the world, and their influence is of the same character as that of the world.  {18MR 158.2}
[18MR 158.3]          Whenever persons are truly converted, their moral taste is changed. In all the expenditures they will have a single purpose--to keep the glory of God in view, to have a right influence in the church, and in all their actions to testify to worldlings that they are children of God, that through faith they have been made partakers of Christ's self-denial, of His great love for perishing souls. They will constantly be afraid that they will lift a worldly standard in the place of the banner of Jesus Christ.  {18MR 158.3}
[18MR 158.4]          What an account will those in Battle Creek have to give who have the Bible to guide them as to the spirit and action they must have in order to lead souls                                           -159-     out of darkness to the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in! How much money is expended in order to follow the promptings and desires of a carnal heart, to please and glorify self! How much means might flow into the Lord's treasury that is employed upon self! And in the judgment those poor, tempted souls who have lived to please themselves will see these things as God has estimated them. They will see how they might have saved and helped if they had not been so absorbed with self.  {18MR 158.4}
[18MR 159.1]          Everyone who has a knowledge of the truth has a work to do to come into sympathy with Christ. "Ye are laborers together with God." The salvation of the soul is above every other interest; how much higher than every other enterprise is measured by the cross of Calvary. Christ's servants will work the works of Christ.  {18MR 159.1}
[18MR 159.2]          Now missionaries are wanted, and if the many in the church at Battle Creek had expended less money and less time in the outward adorning, and in many trivial things, their minds might have been enriched with the grace of Christ, and they, growing up into Christ, could have enriched others. The truth would burn like holy fire upon the altar of the heart, a light to shine amid the darkness. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  {18MR 159.2}
[18MR 159.3]          The Satanic agencies are a living, persevering power, at work to bar the way so that the kingdom of Christ may not come and the will of God be done in the earth. The church is asleep while Satan is sowing his tares. While so many of the church members refuse to shine, how shall the world be lightened? There is work given of God for every one to do; there are to be no idle ones. Not one is to be selfish and self-centered. It is very easy to become thus, and Satan                                                                              160  is constantly working that this selfish spirit shall be manifested by professed Christians.  {18MR 159.3}
[18MR 160.1]          I wish I could make the church understand how terrible a thing it is to profess to be Christians while, in the place of leading heavenward, their thoughts, their actions, are of a character that suits the plans of Satan, for he can use them as decoys to lead others away from true piety and earnest Christian work. Salt that has lost its savor can never benefit the world. It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men.  {18MR 160.1}
[18MR 160.2]          Professed believers who see no work to call them from thinking and planning and working for themselves will not have the rich treasures of truth opened to them, and the truth will not be a savor of life unto them or to others through their influence. Who wears the armor of Jesus Christ? Who are marshalled under the banner to work as faithful, well-disciplined soldiers? God has made us stewards, and it is expected of a steward that he be found faithful.  {18MR 160.2}
[18MR 160.3]          Let those who have long professed to believe the truth consider carefully what ground they occupy. Are they trying to serve God and mammon? It will not pay to do this. God requires the whole heart.  {18MR 160.3}
[18MR 160.4]          Suppose a call should be made in Battle Creek for missionaries to go forth to establish themselves in cities and in villages, and even to go to foreign countries to do all that they possibly can in the name of Jesus. How many would respond? How many of those who should respond would have their character so molded by Jesus Christ that they would be chosen as those who could be trusted? How many who have listened to the appeals made in regard to the plainness of dress have heeded the appeals and admonitions of God, conforming to the light given of God? Should those who profess to believe the truth go into places                                         -161-     where the truth has never been represented, would their outward appearance plainly contradict the truth? Those who have not been brought into harmony with the self-denial and self-sacrifice of Christ Jesus are not the ones to attempt this work, for they are not ready to labor for the salvation of others.  {18MR 160.4}
[18MR 161.1]          We want missionaries, but where shall we find them? Those who have had every spiritual advantage, who should have been increasing their talents that they may have more talents to use, that they may return to the Lord His own with usury, have dwarfed intellects and sacrificed their spirituality on the altar of lust. Their discernment is perverted; they know not that they are without a genuine conversion. But what will these have to say in the day of God? Let them consider before it shall be forever too late.--Ms 10, 1892.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 161.1}
[18MR 162.1]       MR No. 1327 - The Formation of Character         (Diary entry written at "Elmshaven." St. Helena, Cal., July 7, 1902.)          I am enjoying much better health now than I recollect having ever enjoyed in the past. I am so grateful to the Lord Jesus for His grace given me.  {18MR 162.1}
[18MR 162.2]          The Lord is giving me the most precious presentations of what He desires to do for those who will to do the will of God. "Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods. But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth" ［Matthew 24:45-51］. We have a most sacred commission.  {18MR 162.2}
[18MR 162.3]          Those who are in any way connected with the church of God must be humble, revealing the meekness of Christ. All are invited to come to Christ in their great need, and to take His yoke upon them. "Learn of Me," says the divine Teacher, Christ, "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." If ［only］ all would heed the invitation!                                        -163-  {18MR 162.3}
[18MR 163.1]          It greatly dishonors God for anyone in any way to disregard the great salvation brought to mankind at so great a cost, even the life of the only begotten Son of God. Men and women have no right to refuse the invitation of Him who has died for their redemption. Christ offers life eternal to those who choose to be obedient and submissive to God's will in this life. By bearing the yoke of willing obedience, they testify to worlds unfallen, to angels, and to men, that they have accepted Christ as their Ruler, and are conforming their lives in accordance with His will. The Lord calls souls to repent and be converted.  {18MR 163.1}
[18MR 163.2]         Those who refuse to accept Christ's invitation to wear His yoke of obedience and to learn of Him His meekness and lowliness, will not form characters that fit them to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. Before the universe such persons bear a direct testimony against Christ. They do their Saviour a great wrong. By their choice they reveal that they despise the great salvation which the heavenly Father has placed within their reach. They do not properly estimate the value that Christ has placed upon them. They fail of realizing that Christ has purchased them at an infinite cost. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  {18MR 163.2}
[18MR 163.3]          Christ took upon Himself the nature of humanity, to make it possible for Him to suffer and to die as a propitiation for the sins of the fallen race. Through His merits repentant sinners may unite with divinity. His they are by creation and by redemption. "As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name."  {18MR 163.3}
[18MR 163.4]          The Lord is doing a great work in the earth. With intense interest He is examining every man's fitness of character to associate with the sinless angels                                       -164-     and with the redeemed family in heaven. Not one of the ransomed host will be disposed to begin a rebellion similar to the one that Satan began before the creation of our race. The Lord gives men and women probationary time in which to acquaint themselves with His terms of salvation. They are given opportunity to unite with Him, as "laborers together with God," to mold their characters after the similitude of the Divine. Thus they heed His words of counsel, "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure." They profit by the words of warning: "Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth."  {18MR 163.4}
[18MR 164.1]          All who are careless and indifferent, all who have given themselves to the world body, soul, and spirit, to deceptive practices to accomplish their own ends, will find themselves, whatever their position, unready for His appearing. "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" without fault and blameless.  {18MR 164.1}
[18MR 164.2]          Christ is made the Judge of every man's character. All judgment is given by the Father into His hands. Daily this examination of every man's character is being carried on. God is particular in requiring everyone to be truthful in speech, without the least prevarication and deception, after the world's way, and thus denying the righteousness of Christ. "By their words thou shall be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned."  {18MR 164.2}
[18MR 164.3]          Many, many are trusting to their own righteousness. They set up a standard for themselves and do not submit to the will of Christ and allow Him to clothe                                        -165-     them with the robe of His righteousness. They form characters according to their own will and pleasure. Satan is well pleased with their false religion. They misrepresent the perfect character--the righteousness--of Christ. How sad it is. Themselves deceived, they deceive others. They are not accepted of God. They are liable to lead other souls into false paths. They will at last receive their reward with the great deceiver--Satan.  {18MR 164.3}
[18MR 165.1]          There are a large number of professing Christians who do not really follow Jesus. They do not bear the cross by proper self-denial and self-sacrifice. Although making a great profession of being most earnest Christians, they weave into the fabric of their characters so many of the threads of their own imperfections that the beautiful pattern is spoiled. Of them Christ says: "You boast of being rich and increased with supposed spiritual attainments. In reality you are neither cold nor hot, but are filled with vain conceit. Your life is a deception. Unless converted, you cannot be saved, for you would mar heaven with your unsanctified wisdom. I cannot endorse your spirit and your work. You do not act according to the divine Example. You are following a pattern merely of your own invention. Because you are lukewarm, I must spue you out of My mouth."  {18MR 165.1}
[18MR 165.2]          Let us thank the Lord that while this class is so numerous, there is still time for repentance. Jesus says, "I, your Redeemer, know your works. I am familiar with the motives that prompt you to declare boastingly in regard to your spiritual condition, 'I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.' Thou 'knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked."  {18MR 165.2}
[18MR 165.3]          Those who are in this condition are willfully ignorant. They do not discern the real character of sin. By their wrong-doing they constantly                                         -166-     misrepresent the character of Christ and put Him to open shame. Professing to have a knowledge of the truth, they act in spirit as novices. They do not seem to understand the truth that must be expressed in word and deed to show a decided difference between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. They are false claimants of every Christian blessing and privilege, when, as Christ's representatives, they are not rich in spiritual grace or in good works. They are wretched, poor, blind, maimed. What a position to be in! They stand in their own light.  {18MR 165.3}
[18MR 166.1]          But notwithstanding their willful ignorance, they are not left by the Lord without added warning and counsel. "I counsel thee," He pleads, "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. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcome, and am set down with My Father in His throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" ［Revelation 3:18-22］.  {18MR 166.1}
[18MR 166.2]          There are some who will not hear. So long have they chosen to follow their own way and their own wisdom, so long have they cherished defective hereditary and cultivated tendencies of character, that they are blind, and cannot see afar off. By them, principles are perverted; false standards are raised; tests are made that bear not the signature of heaven. Thus many of God's professed people are assimilating worldly ideas and forming characters that will exclude them from heaven. And yet some of these very ones make their boasts in the Lord                                         -167-     as a people who do righteousness, and forsake not the ordinances of their God.--Ms 138, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 166.2}
[18MR 168.1]       MR No. 1328 - Words of Counsel             (Written September 15, 1902, at Los Angeles, California.)          Renunciation of Self. I thank the Lord this morning for His keeping power. I awake very early, unable to sleep. During the past night my mind has been greatly burdened. I am charged to bear to those in Los Angeles and all who shall assemble in these meetings who minister in word and doctrine, the message that they need to be reconverted, for they do not understand the philosophy of the genuine missionary work that should be done by those who are acquainted with present truth. In the thirteenth, fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth chapters of John, God's will is plainly outlined before them. It is their privilege to understandingly watch unto prayer, ［and］ believe that God means just what He says. The Lord charges them to stand faithfully, to believe every verse in these chapters, and to live them out before their brother ministers.  {18MR 168.1}
[18MR 168.2]          To every one God has given His work. Not all have the same line of work, but all are to be workers together with God, laboring in perfect unity and love with one another, bearing fruit to the glory of God. God's servants are branches of the true Vine, and they should produce the best quality of fruit. They are distinct branches, but they draw their sustenance from one Source-- the parent stock, Christ Jesus.  {18MR 168.2}
[18MR 168.3]          Those who work for God are daily to empty the heart of self, that they may be cleansed of their hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. They are to                                        -169-     depend wholly upon Him who taught as never man taught. Unless the soul temple is daily emptied of self, and prepared for the reception of the Holy Spirit, self will rule the entire being. The words and acts will be tarnished with selfishness. Christ will not appear in the life. There will be seen a self-confidence that is wholly inappropriate.  {18MR 168.3}
[18MR 169.1]          In order to be a co-laborer with Christ, man must put away his supposed wisdom. Then he will be humble enough to wear Christ's yoke and to receive His Spirit, the gift that brings to the soul rest and peace. Christ's invitation is, "'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.' In learning the lessons I teach, in cherishing the grace of patience and forbearance, in striving to control the thoughts and words, in revealing Christlike love for one another, you will learn to be meek and lowly, and you will find the peace and rest that is more precious than gold."  {18MR 169.1}
[18MR 169.2]         How to Deal With Temptation. As God's chosen ministers assemble for council, those who have been living tried and tempted lives will be tempted to give expression to their feelings. They have been severely tried; difficulties have arisen before them as they try to advance. But if they keep Christ enthroned in the heart, ever looking to Him who has bought them with a price, they will not give expression to sentiments that would leave upon the minds of their brethren a disagreeable impression of unChristlikeness. They will discern spiritual things. They will follow Christ's way of managing difficulties, remembering that He is the Finisher of their faith as well as the Author of their faith. They will remember that if they wear Christ's yoke, they must do as He did. They will leave in God's hands the things to be done and the things to be suffered, remembering that they are not under the control of self, but                                        -170-     that they have given themselves up to be laborers together with Christ, forming characters for eternal life, and that they are to learn from Him the way to overcome evil with good in all that they are called upon to suffer. We have a heaven to win, and precious victories to gain.  {18MR 169.2}
[18MR 170.1]          The words spoken by our Instructors impressed me deeply. Of those who lead tried and tempted lives the question was asked, "How do you deal with your difficulties? Do you harness yourself for an encounter with trial and temptation? And then do you lay hold on these temptations, as you suppose you must, while your spirit is hot within you, and wrestle with them, quite sure that this is what you ought to do? As you battle with your covetousness and uncharitableness on their own ground, do you come out victor? No; you come out discouraged, bruised, and wounded, bound and enfeebled spiritually.  {18MR 170.1}
[18MR 170.2]          "What should you do? Simply put your whole trust in the One who understands your temptations and trials, the One who alone can master temptation. If you had not been premature in your efforts, you need not have fought so terrible a battle; for the Captain of your salvation was at work for you, ready to do for you that which you cannot do for yourself, and to leave you free to do that which He has told you to do--learn of Him His meekness and lowliness. He has been tempted in all points 'like as we are,' and He knows how to succor those that are tempted. Had you first talked humbly with God in prayer, by faith grasping His promises, you would have received strength for the conflict."  {18MR 170.2}
[18MR 170.3]         When we believe the promise, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world," we shall be strong to endure. We need a constant sense of the abiding presence of Christ. He is our righteousness.  {18MR 170.3}
[18MR 170.4]          Laborers Together With God. The Lord has given me these words to speak and write over and over again, until a decided adherence to the principles of truth                                         -171-     shows that men have been called to repentance. A grand side of the work of God is revealed by the words, "medical missionary." To be a medical missionary means to be a laborer together with God. Medical missionary work, a work that is to be a great help and strength to the cause, is to be carried forward in all carefulness and wisdom. Into this work not one thread is to be drawn that will spoil the beautiful pattern that God designs shall be worked out.  {18MR 170.4}
[18MR 171.1]          The medical missionary work is God's own work, and it is to be controlled by no human power. Human agencies are to act as the Lord's helping hand, guided and controlled by the power of the Holy Spirit. Not one act is to be done that will dishonor the work.  {18MR 171.1}
[18MR 171.2]          Mistakes will be made, but let men be very careful how they bear down upon those who have made mistakes. Sometimes the one who treats the erring with little mercy has made mistakes far more grievous in the sight of God than those made by the one whom he so unsparingly condemns.  {18MR 171.2}
[18MR 171.3]          Under the Lord's special guidance, some things have been done that are contrary to the specified directions laid down by men. Unseen agencies were guiding in another way than that marked out by human wisdom. Then let men be careful how they call their brethren to account, as though they were in God's place.  {18MR 171.3}
[18MR 171.4]          The Lord has heard the humiliating censure that has been given to those who had not rebellion in their hearts, who thought they were doing just what they were told to do. The Lord saw that His work would be marred if the directions given by men were followed, and He guided the minds of the workers to do the work in the very way that He wished it done. The workers did not follow the plan laid out by men, because God had a better plan for them. The divine guiding produced the right result.                                        -172-  {18MR 171.4}
[18MR 172.1]          If the Lord is the great, unseen Medical Missionary, and men are laborers together with Him, who are you condemning in blaming His sincere workers? Against whom are your sarcastic words spoken? The Lord Jesus would have His work done according to His way. If men could see Him guiding and controlling His servants, helping them to do His work in His way with far better results than if they followed the directions given in human wisdom, how ashamed they would be of the condemnation they give these workers!  {18MR 172.1}
[18MR 172.2]          I am instructed to say to our ministers and medical missionary workers, Be careful what spirit you manifest to one another. Men are having their own way in many places, and if there is not a change, they will soon see that human wisdom has placed them where they cannot do the work in such a way as to make the most advancement. For man to control means that the work of God will not rise to the high elevation that God designs it to reach.  {18MR 172.2}
[18MR 172.3]          God's ways are not men's ways, nor are His thoughts men's thoughts. The Lord has seen best to permit men to have their own way, but it will be to the sadness of their own souls and the souls of those whom they control. God's name will not be honored as it should be.  {18MR 172.3}
[18MR 172.4]          The Source of Power. To His servants who shall be assembled in council at any time and in any place, the Lord says, Remember that prayer is the source of power. Remember that it is through dependence upon God, by looking to Him in faith, that you gain the victory. He never disappoints His people.  {18MR 172.4}
[18MR 172.5]          We are in danger of getting above the simplicity of pure Christlikeness. We need to receive and act upon the prayer that Christ offered to His Father just before His crucifixion. In this prayer He said, ［John 17:18-26, quoted］.  {18MR 172.5}
[18MR 172.6]          God loves us even as He loves His Son, and Christ has given us the assurance, "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." Let us have                                         -173-     many, many love feasts over this assurance, knowing that Christ is ever beside us, to strengthen and to bless.--Ms 139, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 172.6}
[18MR 174.1]       MR No. 1329 - Miscellaneous Diary Entries                    "Elmshaven," St. Helena, California, Aug. 31, 1902          The Christ-Life. This morning I am grateful to my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, that I slept well during the night and that the peace of the Saviour abides in my heart. I awoke at three o'clock with peace of mind and with the assurance that my talk on the Sabbath was just what our people needed. Everyone should understand the Scriptures. "What saith the law?" Christ inquires. "How readest thou?"  {18MR 174.1}
[18MR 174.2]          The Lord blessed me in speaking. I had not the least sense of weariness. I felt so grateful to my heavenly Father for the assurance that I could give to others from a "Thus saith the Lord" and "It is written" that, while speaking, my own soul was refreshed. No one spoke an encouraging word to me. I did not need any. I was refreshed and deeply impressed that we should dwell more upon the sacred claims of the Lord. He expects from us entire obedience to His commandments. His law, written with His own finger upon tables of stone, is the foundation of all truth.  {18MR 174.2}
[18MR 174.3]          Our world, wicked as it is, seared and marred by the curse, has been trodden by the Son of God, the Majesty of heaven. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  {18MR 174.3}
[18MR 174.4]          Christ came to do the will of His heavenly Father, and He fulfilled His mission. He came in perfect love, as the full expression of the heart and mind of God. He was the brightness of the Father's glory, the express image of His                                         -175-     person; and yet in personal appearance He was as a humble man, meek and lowly. Day after day, from childhood to manhood, He might have been seen going to and from His daily toil. He worked with Joseph at the carpenter's bench, sharing the burdens of the family.  {18MR 174.4}
[18MR 175.1]          In His trade He was perfect. By His hands no sham work was ever done. In perfection of workmanship He is an example to every carpenter. From His lips there never fell a word that should not have been uttered. While laboring, He observed the work done by His fellow workers, and encouraged everyone to do his best.  {18MR 175.1}
[18MR 175.2]          Jesus was always kind and tender toward children, even when but a child Himself. Never was a child repulsed by Him. Little children were drawn to Him, for His face and eyes lighted up with smiles for them. He loved little children, and soothed their childish griefs and disappointments and injuries.  {18MR 175.2}
[18MR 175.3]          Christ went about doing good, feeding the hungry, healing the sick, comforting the downcast. None in need of succor went from Him without finding sympathy--sympathy shown not only in word but in deed. In His presence every stricken, sorrowing heart was soothed and lightened. He did not think of Himself or seek His own interests. He lived to benefit others, to bring relief to the suffering and oppressed. The unwearied servant of man's necessity, He was blessed Himself in relieving others. His heart of love was a fountain of blessings that ever flowed forth to gladden hearts.  {18MR 175.3}
[18MR 175.4]          The sons and daughters of woe were the subjects of the Great Physician's ministry, and He always smiled in acknowledgment of expressions of gratitude for relief from pain, however rough and uncouth these expressions might be. It was His joy to lift the burdens of the sin-stricken, suffering world.                                         -176-  {18MR 175.4}
[18MR 176.1]          Every heart should be filled with gratitude for such a Saviour. My heart is stirred. I love Jesus. I contemplate His matchless charms, and desire to practice His virtues day by day. Let us lose sight of self by looking to Him. My heart longs to see the men and women of the world--without God, without hope--becoming hungry for that which will inspire them with hope in regard to the future life.  {18MR 176.1}
[18MR 176.2]          How great a mistake is being made by those who claim to believe that the Lord is soon coming, in that they feel but little burden for the many souls around them in need of spiritual help--souls to whom they speak no word in season. Kind, sympathetic words should be spoken to those so much in need of the right instruction.  {18MR 176.2}
[18MR 176.3]          Are you individually able to say, "I am laboring together with Jesus Christ; I have chosen to do His will, not mine. He declares: "Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." This is the condition of discipleship. What are you doing to save souls from ruin, to restore God's moral image in man?  {18MR 176.3}
[18MR 176.4]          The joy of the Lord is our strength. Shall we remember these words? We know that God is true, and that all His ways are just and right. All God expects of us is to live each day as if it were our last on earth, surrendering ourselves to Him to do His will. As He is perfect in knowledge, so is He perfect in wisdom. The best use and improvement of knowledge is to heed the instruction of Christ, "Come unto Me, all ye that labor 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."                                                    -                                           -177-  {18MR 176.4}
[18MR 177.1]                                                          September 1, 1902          The Time of the End. My mind is deeply stirred. I cannot sleep after eleven o'clock. I long for the gift of the Holy Spirit. My soul panteth after God as the hart panteth after water-brooks. The present condition of our world shows us what we may expect to see in the future. Everything is to be shaken that can be shaken. Men will be placed in positions where they will reveal what human beings will do and what the world will be when God's law is no longer respected.  {18MR 177.1}
[18MR 177.2]          In the time of the end every ambitious project will appear fascinating. The farther God's people separate from those aspiring for the supremacy, the more security they will find in His protection.  {18MR 177.2}
[18MR 177.3]          Soon the four winds of heaven will be loosed, and in every part of the globe there will be dissension, strife, war, bloodshed. Satan is stirred with intensity from beneath. The power of God will be the defense of His people until their warning message will have been proclaimed to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.  {18MR 177.3}
[18MR 177.4]          The Lord has pointed out the way in which everyone should travel. Light is shining upon the pathway of the righteous. Ample light is given, but many do not walk in this light. A spirit takes possession of many men and women that causes them to think they must do something unusual in order to call attention to the great things that they can do. The Lord leaves them to themselves to do their wonderful works. And what a farce is the building up of their towers!  {18MR 177.4}
[18MR 177.5]          The Lord has opened before me many things that I must write out. I am using my pen early and late, and yet it seems as if I can make but a beginning in writing out the matters that need to be impressed upon the minds of God's people.                                                    -                                            -178-  {18MR 177.5}
[18MR 178.1]            "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., Australia, February 18, 1899.          Preparation of a Pamphlet on Daniel and the Revelation. I awoke at three a.m. I sent an earnest petition to my gracious heavenly Father for His keeping power today; for we are kept by the power of God through faith. And faith is not of ourselves; it is the gift of God.  {18MR 178.1}
[18MR 178.2]          I spoke in the chapel at eleven o'clock, using as my text Matthew 24:14-31. All along the path of the many years that have passed since the Saviour foretold His second coming, waymarks are set to show the inhabitants of the world that the things prophesied in the twenty-fourth of Matthew will surely come to pass. "Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." This is the time when men and women should make determined efforts to keep wide-awake spiritually because of the prevalence of iniquity. Those who preserve their first love will be saved. The promise is, "He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Those who have genuine faith in God's Word will, when tested, stand firm for principle. They have a definite message to proclaim in the time of the end. "This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."  {18MR 178.2}
[18MR 178.3]          We must awake! God calls upon His church to put on her beautiful garments--the robe of Christ's righteousness.  {18MR 178.3}
[18MR 178.4]          We do not dwell sufficiently upon the Revelation and the book of Daniel. These books should be published together in pamphlet form, with a few explanations added, and they should be circulated everywhere. The words of inspiration will do their appointed work; for the Holy Spirit will impress hearts in regard to the prophecies given.                                        -179-  {18MR 178.4}
[18MR 179.1]          In this pamphlet it should be made plain that a revelation is not a mystery which cannot be understood, but rather a mystery revealed. These two books may be prepared for publication in a pamphlet bound inexpensively, costing but a trifle, and small enough to be carried in the pocket. Printed together, the books of Daniel and the Revelation will speak to the people and tell their own story.                                                    -    {18MR 179.1}
[18MR 179.2]           "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., Australia, August 18 (?), 1899.          The Work of Elder W. C. White. I awoke as the clock struck eleven. I desire to write out some things that the Lord has given me for my instruction.  {18MR 179.2}
[18MR 179.3]          Friday I talked with my son, W. C. White, in regard to the necessity of giving his whole time to the work of preparing my writings for publication. My mind was much troubled, and after going to rest I could not sleep. But I fell asleep after a time.  {18MR 179.3}
[18MR 179.4]          In the night season, light came to me that W. C. White had from his childhood been trained for the Lord's work. Before his birth he was dedicated to God; and after his birth he was chosen of God to serve Him with singleness of purpose. He is to stand ready to serve where necessity requires. It is not possible to separate him from the general work in which he is so intensely interested. I am instructed that if he will trust wholly in God, the Lord will work with him and through him, giving him judgment to do the Master's service aright.  {18MR 179.4}
[18MR 179.5]          It is essential also that he shall be connected with his mother's work. The preparation of my writings for publication in book form should receive his attention. And there are other responsibilities that he must bear in this country. He is better prepared than some others to see the needs of God's                                         -180-     cause and to present these needs before the people in a way that will arouse them to give these matters proper attention. Through his connection with the work of his mother, whom the Lord has instructed, W. C. White can give to the people the light that is essential in regard to plans and methods. The Spirit of the Lord will impress upon his mind the deep import of the matters laid out before him. I can communicate to him matters that the Lord has seen fit to present to me for many years--even before my son's birth--in regard to the principles upon which God's people should act.  {18MR 179.5}
[18MR 180.1]          W. C. White has a special work to do. He cannot disconnect himself from this work, for it is his lifeblood. It is his inheritance from the Lord. For this work he was born. He cannot be at rest in spirit when there are so many important matters needing adjustment; for at such times the developments in the Lord's cause lay upon him a proportionately increased responsibility to discharge faithfully his duties--duties as important and sacred as those of any other man who is called upon to deal with the mental and spiritual interests of his fellow men.  {18MR 180.1}
[18MR 180.2]          As this is the light given me, I now renewedly dedicate my son, W. C. White, to the Lord's work--a work that includes the preparation, with as little delay as possible, of the matter which the Lord has given me to present to the world, to our churches, and to individuals.                                                                   -    {18MR 180.2}
[18MR 180.3]              "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., Australia, March 1, 1899.          The Southern Field; Principles That Should Actuate God's Workers. There is a heavy burden resting upon my mind much of the time. We are not doing all that we should do for the Southern field. The work must be established in this                                         -181-     neglected field. What shall be done? If missionary effort is not put forth in this field, God will hold His people in America accountable.  {18MR 180.3}
[18MR 181.1]          We cannot do God's will by investing means in large buildings that are unnecessary for the advancement of His work. No sure follower of Christ will waste his God-given talent of means in selfish gratification and display. The time will come when those who now spend money needlessly will deeply regret their mistake.  {18MR 181.1}
[18MR 181.2]          Souls are perishing, and the Lord calls for earnest effort. The Christian religion never makes a man self-centered. Jesus came from heaven to the earth to teach man how to live an unselfish life. He was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, the Commander of the heavenly host; yet He laid aside His kingly crown and royal robe, and clothed His divinity with humanity, in order that He might stand at the head of humanity, suffering the afflictions of the fallen race. He understands the inconveniences to which mankind is subject. He became poor, that through His poverty we might become rich in the possession of the overcomer's reward.  {18MR 181.2}
[18MR 181.3]          Living in the world among an apostate race, Christ's obedience to God's law showed that man, though fallen, can keep this law by being a partaker of the divine nature, overcoming the corruption that is in the world through lust.  {18MR 181.3}
[18MR 181.4]          Jesus says, "Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." This is the condition of discipleship. As the Saviour went about doing good, He showed the power of a holy temper and unselfish deeds.  {18MR 181.4}
[18MR 181.5]          God calls for a consecrated ministry. In Zechariah we read: "Lo, I will raise up a shepherd in the land, which shall not visit those that be cut off, neither shall seek the young ones, nor heal that that is broken, nor feed that                                          -182-     that standeth still: but he shall eat the flesh of the fat, and tear their claws in pieces. Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall utterly darkened" ［Zechariah 11:16, 17］.  {18MR 181.5}
[18MR 182.1]          Notice the spelling of the word idol. It is not idle, but idol. This refers to the minister who makes an idol of himself--to the minister who carries on his heart no burden for souls. Let the ministers consider this scripture. The Lord has no use for idol shepherds.  {18MR 182.1}
[18MR 182.2]          God has begun a work of reformation among His people in America. He requires that thorough work be done, for the great day of the Lord is almost upon us. He calls for men of steadfast integrity and wise judgment, men who will improve their talents by using them in His service.  {18MR 182.2}
[18MR 182.3]          The men who are standing in positions of responsibility are not to be lords. They are not to think that they can rule as kings. They are to be men of wisdom, able to give counsel that will protect and strengthen the people of God. They should carry out the instruction given in the eighteenth of Matthew. The men standing in positions of trust are to hate every vestige of selfishness. They are to show that they are not narrow-minded. They are to set an example that may be safely followed.  {18MR 182.3}
[18MR 182.4]          Those who are bearing responsibilities in our institutions are not to think that their position gives them liberty to speak impatiently or boastingly, or to act in an overbearing manner. Those who fail in these respects are imperiling the progress of the cause. They set a misleading example before all within the sphere of their influence. Let everyone honor the standard that Christ has uplifted. Allow it not to trail in the dust. Never dishonor our Leader by scolding, fretting, and acting like spoiled children.                                         -183-  {18MR 182.4}
[18MR 183.1]          In perfect harmony the laborers in every line of God's service are to do their appointed work, uniting in helping one another, each one performing faithfully his allotted task as if under the personal oversight of a heaven-sent Director.  {18MR 183.1}
[18MR 183.2]          When all, as men and women in Christ Jesus, unite in works of beneficence, the Lord will prosper them, enabling them to render the highest service. A wise division of labor will effectually advance the Lord's work. Let everyone be assigned his duties, according to his ability; and let him be honored as one of God's workmen. This will bind heart to heart.  {18MR 183.2}
[18MR 183.3]          Let no one regard it as his right to scold or condemn others, for this causes them to feel discouraged, and does not make them any more faithful or trustworthy. He who is an overseer should be in word and deed an example of humility, patience, kindness, faithfulness, and unselfishness.  {18MR 183.3}
[18MR 183.4]          My brethren in positions of responsibility, remember that you are not to keep in suspense the men and women who signify their desire to work for the Master. Express your pleasure that they are willing to enter the work; give them something to do. God is stirring the minds of men and women to do much more than they have done. In all our institutions--our sanitariums, publishing houses, and schools--we need fathers and mothers in Israel, men and women quick to discern the needs of those who for a time require help and encouragement, in order that they may develop into useful workers.  {18MR 183.4}
[18MR 183.5]          In the ninth chapter of Ezekiel is portrayed the fate of the men of responsibility who have not glorified God by faithfulness and integrity. Read this chapter. Notice especially verses four to six: ［quoted］. At the appointed time, the Lord God of Israel will do His work most thoroughly.                                         -184-  {18MR 183.5}
[18MR 184.1]          The thirty-third chapter of Ezekiel is an outline of the work that God approves. Those in positions of sacred trust, those honored of God by being appointed to stand as watchmen on the walls of Zion, are in every respect to be all that is embraced in the meaning of the word watchmen. They are to be ever on guard against the dangers threatening the spiritual life and health and prosperity of God's heritage.  {18MR 184.1}
[18MR 184.2]          Upon us as ministers God has placed a burden of solemn responsibility. Realizing that we are His chosen watchmen, we should have constant concern and forethought in regard to the state of the church. We should give much time to earnest prayer for divine wisdom and guidance in order that we may know how best to promote God's honor and glory. He has commissioned us to honor Him, the Omnipotent One, in every word and act. From Him comes our maintenance. We are wholly dependent upon His sufficiency, His bounty, for our support.  {18MR 184.2}
[18MR 184.3]          God has declared to us, "Ye are the salt of the earth." The preserving influence that we may exert in the world is bestowed upon us by the Lord. The bounties that we constantly receive from Him are to flow through hand and heart to those around us who have not yet become connected with the Fountainhead.  {18MR 184.3}
[18MR 184.4]          When we see God dishonored, we ought not to remain quiet, but should do and say all that we can to lead others to see that the God of heaven is not to be thought of as a common man, but as the Infinite One, the One worthy of man's highest reverence. Let us present God's Word in its purity, and lift up the voice in warning against everything that would dishonor our heavenly Father.--Ms 165, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 184.4}
[18MR 185.1]       MR No. 1330 - The Need of Earnest Effort; Work the Cities;  Heed the Message to Laodicea         We are living in the time of the end. Thrones and churches have united to oppose God's purposes. The association of man with man, which God designed should be a means of strengthening goodness and happiness, has been a means of strengthening evil and of developing tendencies to rebellion. Men have assumed despotic power, and human laws have been put in the place of the law of God.  {18MR 185.1}
[18MR 185.2]          It is the reign of anti-Christ. God's law is set aside. The Scriptures are exchanged for the traditions of men. Satan has become the ruler of the world, and in his hands temptation has become a science. He rules over a vast, well-organized empire. Sin has stimulated his followers into fearful activity. Men have combined to perpetuate evil. The sale of intoxicating liquor, destructive alike to soul and body, is legalized by Christian governments. And those who authorize the sale of that which makes men demons make Sunday laws, which they give to the world under the solemn name of religion.  {18MR 185.2}
[18MR 185.3]         God's people are to show their loyalty to Him by keeping holy the day of His rest. They are to work earnestly to set in operation influences that will counterwork the efforts that Satan is making. The light of truth is to be shed abroad in the earth. God's law is to be proclaimed. An intense interest in the message of present truth is to be awakened.  {18MR 185.3}
[18MR 185.4]          The establishment of sanitariums is one means by which this is done. Thus men and women are to learn of the character of the work of Seventh-day Adventists.                                         -186-     It is the Lord's design that in many places sanitariums shall be established.  {18MR 185.4}
[18MR 186.1]          In the future some of our sanitariums will be moved from their present locations to more favorable places. It has been presented to me that properties will be offered to us for sale on which there are buildings in which our work can be carried forward. I have recently received a letter saying that such a place has been purchased not far from Boston. I recognize in the offer of this place the providence of God. With a sanitarium established there, much can be done to enlighten the city of Boston. Now as never before this city is to be worked.  {18MR 186.1}
[18MR 186.2]          God's people are to have clear spiritual eyesight, else they will fail of securing advantages that God desires them to secure. We have plain evidence that God's hand is upon the wheel of His providence. The great crisis is before us. Now is the time for us to warn the world by the distribution of our publications and by the establishment of sanitariums and schools. And let us never lose sight of the great object for which these interests are established--the advancement of God's work.  {18MR 186.2}
[18MR 186.3]          Hygienic restaurants are to be started in our cities. Thus a good work may be done. God will give His people skill and wisdom to make wholesome, palatable foods. He who in the wilderness gave manna to the children of Israel, is our God, ready to give light and knowledge to those whose desire it is to glorify Him. Those in charge of our restaurants should take a firm stand to close them on the Sabbath. Thus they proclaim the Sabbath truth.  {18MR 186.3}
[18MR 186.4]         Let God's work go forward. Let plants be made in many places. Let the cities of America be warned. There are many cities in which nothing has been done to proclaim the message of warning. What does it mean that so many fields                                         -187-     are left unworked? To God you must give the answer. He will call to account those upon whom the light of truth is shining, if they pass by these needy fields.  {18MR 186.4}
[18MR 187.1]          The light given me is that if, instead of having immense medical institutions such as the Battle Creek Sanitarium, many smaller sanitariums were established in many places, a strong influence for good would be exerted on those who are strangers from the covenant of promise.  {18MR 187.1}
[18MR 187.2]          Influences are to be set in motion that will proclaim to the world the first, second, and third angels' messages. The time has come of which John writes, "The temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in His temple the ark of His testament, and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail" ［Revelation 11:19］. "The ark of His testament"--［this ark contains］ the two tables of stone upon which are written, with the finger of God, the ten commandments. The ark is a symbol of the presence of God. In clear, steady rays, the light shines from it to the world.  {18MR 187.2}
[18MR 187.3]         The time has come when the law of God is to be proclaimed with strong, decided utterance. The world is to be warned, and I beseech those who know the truth to do all in their power to sound the warning, "Prepare to meet thy God." The temple of God was opened in heaven in answer to the prayers of His people, and by terrible things in righteousness will He reveal His power.  {18MR 187.3}
[18MR 187.4]          "It is time for Thee, Lord, to work," David said, "for they have made void Thy law." "They have made void Thy law," he says. The well-nigh universal scorn thrown on God's law did not change his sentiments in regard to it. "Therefore I love Thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold."  {18MR 187.4}
[18MR 187.5]          David lived many hundreds of years ago, and he thought then that the time had come for God to interfere to vindicate His honor and repress the swelling                                         -188-     unrighteousness. Today men have almost filled the cup of their iniquity. The Lord does not execute the death penalty on the transgressors of His law until they have heard the warning and have been given opportunity to see the fallacy of the doctrines they believe. How wonderful is His forbearance and patience! He is putting a constraint on His own attributes. Omnipotence is exerted over Omnipotence.  {18MR 187.5}
[18MR 188.1]          "The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power," "plenteous in mercy and forgiveness"; but He "will not at all acquit the wicked: the Lord hath His way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of His feet." Soon there is to be an awakening of His displeasure, and who then can stay His wrath?  {18MR 188.1}
[18MR 188.2]          A Call to Repentance. There is work to be done in our cities, work to be done in every place. God will take men from the plough, from the sheepfold, from the vineyard, and will put them in the place of those who think that they must have the highest wages. Those who grasp high wages will find in the money they get all the reward they will ever receive. Such ones cannot be expected to feel a burden for the salvation of perishing souls. The Lord wants no such workers. Until they banish selfishness from their hearts, their efforts are worthless. The Lord will take out of the way those workers who are not moving forward in His lines.  {18MR 188.2}
[18MR 188.3]          "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." Those addressed in these words had lost their first love--the love of which Christ declared, "By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another." They had done that for which God had highly commended them. "I know thy works,                                         -189-     and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and how thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars; and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name's sake hast labored, and hast not fainted." But in spite of these good works, the leaving of their first love made their efforts unacceptable to God.  {18MR 188.3}
[18MR 189.1]          God says to His people today, "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." Will they heed the reproof? Will they dare to trifle with so direct and decided a statement, and keep their commended excellencies blasted as with a mildew because they allow Satan to steal in among them? "Thou hast left thy first love," and therefore there is no steadfastness of purpose. Without this love, all knowledge, all capabilities, all outward zeal and service, are worthless. You do not receive from Christ grace to impart to others. And while you do not reveal the love that Christ has commanded you to reveal, your light is not shining forth to the world.  {18MR 189.1}
[18MR 189.2]          How does your love for sinners compare with the love that Christ has manifested? He died a shameful death to save human beings from perishing. His love is expressed in the prayer that He offered just before His crucifixion, and in this prayer also is shown the power of Christlike love as it is revealed among human beings.  {18MR 189.2}
[18MR 189.3]          "Neither pray I for these alone," Christ says; "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                                          -190-     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. Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me, be with me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world."  {18MR 189.3}
[18MR 190.1]          "By their reception of Me as their Saviour, I am glorified in them, and their lives reveal the power of the truth to purify and ennoble. Through belief and practice of the truth they are sanctified. My Spirit molds and fashions their characters after the divine similitude. I manifest Myself to them, giving them correct views of truth, and their obedience to the truth sanctifies them."  {18MR 190.1}
[18MR 190.2]          "That they all may be one." Christ brings His disciples into an inward, living union with one another and with God. And under the influence of His Spirit they live lives that bear incontrovertible evidence to the power of the truth. In Christian love they are bound up with the Father and the Son, and their unity is a convincing proof that God has sent His Son into the world to save sinners. And the glory that God gave Christ as His obedient Son, Christ gives to them, by His participation with them in humanity and by the promises that He makes to them.  {18MR 190.2}
[18MR 190.3]          Through the love that the church at Ephesus had dropped out of their practice, the knowledge of God and Christ is to be revealed to the world. Let those who today are living without this love remember that their eternal salvation depends on their heartfelt repentance. God says to them, "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."                                         -191-  {18MR 190.3}
[18MR 191.1]          Obedience to this word is the first work. They are in positive danger. No one who continues to cherish a stubborn, querulous spirit will ever pass through the strait gate into the glorious beyond. Let the converting power of truth set the heart right with God. Let the fretful, complaining disposition be changed for Christlikeness of spirit and word and action.  {18MR 191.1}
[18MR 191.2]          There are among us ministers and church members who are not courteous and kind, who seem to have forgotten that in all they do or say they are either following a righteous or an unrighteous course, gathering with Christ or scattering from Him. Self is idolized. The burning ambition of the heart is to exalt self. Whether or not they are fitted for positions of trust in our institutions, they want to be first. They seek to grasp responsibilities that they have neither tact nor ability to carry. They have lost a sense of what is due from man to his fellow man, and in God's sight they are novices. By the spirit they cherish, by the words they speak and the deeds they do, they show that they have lost their first love.  {18MR 191.2}
[18MR 191.3]          They have not the love of Christ in their hearts. They do not love God or their fellow beings; if they did, they would follow a course that would surround their souls with a sweet, pleasant atmosphere. Into their work they bring harshness and self exaltation, and unless they repent their candlestick will be removed, and their hearts will be as a dark room. The light of the Sun of Righteousness has shone on them, but they would not walk in the light, and it has become darkness to them. They walk in accordance with impulse, like a family of unruly children. They are not kind and considerate, but harsh and unChristlike.  {18MR 191.3}
[18MR 191.4]          Christ delights in no such workers. Those who truly receive the glorious truth of the gospel will show forth in their lives the saving, uplifting,                                         -192-     sanctifying power of the truth. The heavenly bears no resemblance to the earthly. Those who are indeed in the truth, those who eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, will daily gain increased knowledge and wider-experience. Daily they will become more skilled workmen, as they cooperate with Christ, making the best possible use of their talents. They are members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.  {18MR 191.4}
[18MR 192.1]          Leaving the first love represents a spiritual fall. Many have fallen thus. In every church in our land, there is needed confession, repentance, and reconversion. The disappointment of Christ is beyond description. Unless those who have fallen repent speedily, the deceptions of the last days will overtake them. Some, though they do not realize it, are preparing to be overtaken. Temptation comes suddenly, and the light is quenched. Henceforth light is to them darkness, and darkness light. God calls for repentance without delay. So long have many trifled with salvation that their spiritual eyesight is dimmed, and they cannot discern between light and darkness. Christ is humiliated in His people. The first love is gone; the faith is weak, there is need of a thorough transformation.  {18MR 192.1}
[18MR 192.2]          My brethren, seek the Lord; humble your hearts before Him. I have an intense desire to see you walking in the light, as Christ is in the light. I pray most earnestly for you. But I cannot fail to see that the light God has given me is not favorable to our ministers or our churches. You have left your first love. Self-righteousness is not the wedding garment. A failure to follow the clear light of truth is our fearful danger. The message to the Laodicean church reveals our condition as a people.  {18MR 192.2}
[18MR 192.3]          Give heed to this message. "These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou                                         -193-     art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of My mouth. Because 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; 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."  {18MR 192.3}
[18MR 193.1]          Oh, what a description! How many there are in this fearful condition. I earnestly entreat every minister to study diligently the third chapter of Revelation, for in it is portrayed the condition of things existing in the last days. Study carefully every verse in this chapter, for through these words Jesus is speaking to you.  {18MR 193.1}
[18MR 193.2]          If ever a people were represented by the Laodicean message, it is the people who have had great light, the revelation of the Scriptures, that Seventh-day Adventists have received. In the place of exalting self by manifesting pride, self-reliance, and self-importance; in the place of revealing personal weakness of character by remaining proud, boastful, and unconverted; God's professed people should realize their need of the graces of the Spirit of truth and righteousness. They should come to Jesus in childlike trustfulness, the melting love of God filling every heart. Never should they cherish thoughts of self-exaltation or dependence on human capabilities. Never should they think that they can exercise the power that comes from God alone.  {18MR 193.2}
[18MR 193.3]          There are souls who are striving to keep themselves in the love of God. In the third of Revelation two classes of church members are brought to view. Christ Himself declared to His servant John, "Thou hast a few names even in                                         -194-     Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white; for they are worthy. 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 angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches."  {18MR 193.3}
[18MR 194.1]         The manifestation of genuine humility is the evidence that we are guarding against the mastery of self. Satan is seeking with all his subtlety to corrupt mind and heart. And oh, how successful he is in leading men and women to depart from the simplicity of the gospel of Christ. Hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong are roused into activity. Ministers and church members are in danger of allowing self to take the throne.  {18MR 194.1}
[18MR 194.2]          Human wisdom, human ability, is nothingness in God's sight. He who supposes that he is superior to his fellow men in wisdom, will sooner or later reveal traits of character that do not possess the fragrance of Christlikeness. In the church today there are many of this stamp--men and women in whom the loveliness of Christ is hidden by the traits of character that unfit the possessor for membership in the Lord's family in the heavenly courts.  {18MR 194.2}
[18MR 194.3]          A Failure to Understand. When these matters are revealed to me, I cannot sleep. Night after night I am in deep distress of mind. Our people, both ministers and lay members, are not prepared to understand Matthew. When the disciples came to Jesus with the question, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He "called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."                                         -195-  {18MR 194.3}
[18MR 195.1]          There are many who are not Bible Christians. They are following a standard of their own devising. If they would see their defective, distorted characters as they are accurately reflected in the mirror of God's Word, they would be so alarmed that they would fall upon their faces before God in contrition of soul, and tear away the rags of their self-righteousness.  {18MR 195.1}
[18MR 195.2]          The church members are not Christians who fail of representing Christ's character; who receive His blessings, not in a spirit of thankfulness, gratitude, and joy, but in a spirit of complaint and faultfinding, manifested in criticizing those who are indeed members of the royal family. They heed not the lessons that Christ had given them.  {18MR 195.2}
[18MR 195.3]          The Saviour's instruction is unmistakably plain. He says: "If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift."  {18MR 195.3}
[18MR 195.4]          "What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any; that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses." But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses" ［Mark 11:24-26］.  {18MR 195.4}
[18MR 195.5]          To cherish resentful feelings and to feed upon them, gives one a very poor appetite for reading the Scriptures, for God's Word condemns the one who permits the enemy so to control the feelings that resentment is harbored. The Lord cannot answer the prayers of anyone who cherishes an unforgiving spirit.  {18MR 195.5}
[18MR 195.6]          My brethren, I feel great sorrow of heart. I shall not appear before you again in our general gatherings unless I am impressed by the Spirit of God that I should. The last General Conference that I attended gave you all the evidence                                         -196-     that you will ever have in any meeting that shall be convened. If that meeting did not convince you that God is working by His Spirit through His humble servant, it is because the candlestick has been removed out of its place. I thought that after the last General Conference there would be a change of heart, but during that meeting the work was not done that ought to have been done that God might come in, nor has this work been done since that time. God is knocking at the door of the heart; but as yet the door has not opened to let Him enter and take full possession of the soul-temple.  {18MR 195.6}
[18MR 196.1]          My brethren in the ministry, you ought to be reaching higher and still higher in Christian experience--higher not by self-assertion, self- assumption, and self-confidence, but by growth in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Press forward toward the mark of the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus. How much we need to be faithful watchmen over self, to make sure that we have not the spirit which leads us to hurt and destroy in the place of using our God-given talents in awakening the inhabitants of our world to a realization of their lost and undone condition. Let us not be content to be as men who have left their first love.--Ms 166, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 196.1}
[18MR 197.1]       MR No. 1331 - The Sin of Evilspeaking; A Call to Sanctified Living         It is not God's plan that reports regarding the work of His servants shall be passed from one to another. My brethren, when someone comes to you with an accusation against a fellow worker say to him, "Have you gone to the one you are accusing, in the way in which Christ has told you to go? If you have not done this, I am not at liberty to listen to what you have to say about him."  {18MR 197.1}
[18MR 197.2]          Hear what Christ has said regarding this matter: "If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift." And He says again, "Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 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. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and publican."  {18MR 197.2}
[18MR 197.3]          Those who are Bible Christians will do as Christ has directed. If His directions were followed, many wounds would be cured that are now left to fester and break out until they are incurable. To follow the course laid down by the great Teacher, who never errs in counsel, is the only way to stop the false tongue, and cause criticism and accusing to cease. The abiding love of Christ in the soul leads to the manifestation of His meekness and lowliness.                                         -198-  {18MR 197.3}
[18MR 198.1]          Oh, how much time is worse than wasted by evilspeaking. Because of this sin, not half is accomplished that might be accomplished. Men and women become mischief makers for Satan, and, going to this one and that one, place in their minds the leaven of evil, prejudicing them against a brother or a sister who, they say, has done wrong. The thoughts of those thus influenced are disturbed, their peace is destroyed, and their confidence in their brethren is weakened.  {18MR 198.1}
[18MR 198.2]          Those who do this evil work are departing from Christ to follow one who is teaching them to love and make a lie. Whatever their position in the service of God, they are dishonoring Him, and Christ says to them, "I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love." All their qualifications and capabilities, however commendable they may apparently be, will not supply the deficiency resulting from the lack of Christlike love.  {18MR 198.2}
[18MR 198.3]          I feel so saddened, so discouraged, by the thought that my brethren are willing to listen to and circulate hearsay. I know that the Spirit of God will not cooperate with those who, by their criticisms, their evil-surmising, and their hardheartedness are helping Satan. God says to them, "Thou hast left thy first love. . . . Repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly," that is, "I will not bear long with your perverse spirit, which leads you to cherish envy and evil-surmising."  {18MR 198.3}
[18MR 198.4]          "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." Do not these words, so plain and decided, call for serious thought and earnest study on the part of everyone who claims to believe the word of God? "Thou hast left thy first love." And the dryness and coldness of the heart are revealed by a lack of that Christian                                          -199-     courtesy, that fragrance of kindness and tenderness, that is seen in the life of the true Christian.  {18MR 198.4}
[18MR 199.1]          A cruel spirit of selfishness is entertained and cherished by the members of the family of God on earth, and too often they act like quarrelsome children. Christ cannot cooperate with them. He invites His people to come to Him, and to gain from His strength that will enable them to grow up "unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." Those who refuse to grow up into men and women in Christ will ever be quarrelsome, overbearing, criticizing, denunciatory.  {18MR 199.1}
[18MR 199.2]          Those who think and speak evil of their fellow laborers, opening the mind to false reports and taking up a reproach against their neighbor, grieve the Spirit of God and put Christ to open shame. Shall those who minister in the word of God grow away from Christ, into uncomeliness and coarseness, becoming boastful and hardhearted? This is the picture that the lives of many now present. Shall not the picture be changed? When we allow spiritual moisture to fall constantly on the soul, we shall thrive as trees of the Lord's planting.  {18MR 199.2}
[18MR 199.3]          If those who know the truth will return to their first love, if they will draw their supplies from Christ, self will not assume such large proportions that the Saviour cannot work with them. When the life of Christ is our life, we shall be like fresh foliage, sweet and fragrant.  {18MR 199.3}
[18MR 199.4]          Christ is as hungry for fruit from ministers and people as when, on His way from Bethany to Jerusalem, He came to a fig tree covered with foliage and presenting an appearance of fruitfulness. But upon searching its branches, from the lowest bough to the topmost twig, Jesus found "nothing but leaves." It was a mass of pretentious foliage, nothing more. Today Christ comes to His people, hungering to find in them the fruits of righteousness. But many, many have                                         -200-     nothing but leaves to offer Him. They have left their first love, and upon them has fallen spiritual blindness, hardness of heart, stubbornness of mind. They pray to God and present Bible truth to the people, for they are in the habit of doing so; but they have lost that which would make their service acceptable.  {18MR 199.4}
[18MR 200.1]          How blind they are, how deficient their service. Boastingly they say, "I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing." But God says to them, "Thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 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."  {18MR 200.1}
[18MR 200.2]          These words are a true representation of the condition of the churches. Will God's people accept His reproof? Let them not remain in their present condition, for time is passing and the work that ought to be done is not done. Where are the trees of the Lord's planting? Are they bearing fruit to His glory? Where are the men who walk softly before God?  {18MR 200.2}
[18MR 200.3]          The Lord bids me say to His people, "Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils." "Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me."  {18MR 200.3}
[18MR 200.4]          How unlike Christ we are in word and spirit and in our attitude toward one another. His gentleness should make us rejoice in the Lord. It should make us "kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another." As a people who have had great light, we stand before God under condemnation unless we fulfill the Saviour's expectation for us, holding fast to Him, and allowing Him to send through our religious experience a warm current of unselfish love. When we do this, our spiritual strength will show that we are                                         -201-     living in close connection with the Life-giver. We shall give life for the life that we receive.  {18MR 200.4}
[18MR 201.1]          A thoroughgoing Christian draws his motives of action from his deep heart-love for his Master. Up through the roots of his affection for Christ come faith and an unselfish interest in his brethren. The selfish desire to be first is quenched. There is no hatred in his thoughts, because there is no hatred in his heart. He has the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. The refining influence of Christ's love refreshes and invigorates his spiritual life. By his loyalty to his brethren he shows that he realizes the value of souls. He can pray with the spirit and with the understanding also. His zeal, his staunch principles, his true devotion to that which is pure, honest, just, and of good report, make him companionable.  {18MR 201.1}
[18MR 201.2]          Such men are of value with God. If they continue to put their trust in Christ, they will grow more and more like Him, and one day they will see God, who declares, "I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir."  {18MR 201.2}
[18MR 201.3]          Christ's Jewels. I cannot sleep after half past two. I rise and dress, and then commit myself to the Lord. To Him alone can I look for help. We are His workmanship, the great apostle to the Gentiles declares, "created in Christ Jesus unto good works." I would not trust in the wisdom of the most learned man that lives, unless his life--his spirit and words and deportment--revealed the righteousness of Christ.  {18MR 201.3}
[18MR 201.4]          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.                                        -202-  {18MR 201.4}
[18MR 202.1]          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.  {18MR 202.1}
[18MR 202.2]          The Lord is dishonored when, because His people do not live in the light of the Sun of Righteousness, they reflect no more light than common pebbles. He is dishonored when their service is tarnished with the leprosy of selfishness.  {18MR 202.2}
[18MR 202.3]          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.  {18MR 202.3}
[18MR 202.4]          Blessed be the experience, however severe, that gives new value to the stone, enabling it to shine with living brightness.  {18MR 202.4}
[18MR 202.5]          The Lord will call young men from the humble walks of life into His service, just as He did when, living in person on this earth, He passed by the learned rabbis to choose as His first disciples humble, unlearned fisherman. He has workers whom He will call forth from poverty and obscurity. Engaged in the                                        -203-     common duties of life, and clothed with coarse raiment, they are looked upon by men as of little value. But Christ sees in them, through His grace, 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 hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels" (Malachi 3:17).  {18MR 202.5}
[18MR 203.1]          Christ's perfect knowledge of human character fits Him to deal with minds. He 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. He will give wisdom and knowledge to those who are willing to be worked by the Holy Spirit, willing to be doers of the word and not hearers only, willing to uplift Christ before the world.  {18MR 203.1}
[18MR 203.2]          Christ is the rightful owner of man. He says to him, "You are Mine. I have bought you with a price. I gave My life for you, that your life might be made harmonious and symmetrical. If you will surrender yourself willingly to Me, I will guide you aright. You are a rough stone, but if you will place yourself in My hands, I will polish you. I will put you in the place that I have chosen for you, that after My plans and methods you may work out My purposes for you. I will so imbue you with My grace that by the luster with which you shine you will bring honor to My name. No man shall pluck you out of My hand. I will make you My peculiar treasure. In the day of My appearing and My triumph, you will be a jewel in My crown of rejoicing."  {18MR 203.2}
[18MR 203.3]          On Christ's coronation day He will not acknowledge as His any who bear spot or wrinkle or any such thing. But to His faithful ones He will give crowns of immortal glory. Those who will not that He should reign over them will see Him surrounded by the army of the redeemed, each of whom bears the sign, The Lord                                         -204-     Our Righteousness. They will see the head once crowned with thorns crowned with a diadem of glory.  {18MR 203.3}
[18MR 204.1]          In that day the redeemed will shine forth in the glory of the Father and the Son. The angels of heaven, touching their golden harps, will welcome the King and His trophies of victory, those who have been washed and made white and tried. 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 self-sacrifice has not been in vain.  {18MR 204.1}
[18MR 204.2]          A Call to Greater Consecration. Can you marvel, my brethren and sisters, that I am bowed down with inexpressible agony, as again and again I am made to realize that few among our people understand their weakness. The characters of many of those who have received such wonderful truth are a jumble of opposites. Christ has promised to make them harmonious on every point, not pleasant and agreeable and kind today, and tomorrow harsh and disagreeable and unkind, falsifying their profession of faith. But many refuse to place themselves where He can help them. They are breaking the commandments of God, for they have left their first love.  {18MR 204.2}
[18MR 204.3]         Oh, how many now teaching others need themselves to learn what it means to be redeemed by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony! They need to feel the power of saving grace. Self and Satan are spoiling many souls, making them so unchristlike in spirit, in word, and in action, and so harmful in influence, that God will separate them from His work. There is danger that by their unchristlikeness they will spoil the experience of those who have any connection with them, ［those］ whom God desires to polish as living stones for His temple.                                         -205-  {18MR 204.3}
[18MR 205.1]          To all who have been harsh and discourteous, as hard as flint in their speech and dealing with their brethren, who are not touched by the strivings of God's Spirit, who desire to be first, to grasp supreme authority, God says, "Thou has left thy first love." He will give them another trial, but if they refuse to repent He will come unto them quickly and will remove their candlestick out of his place.  {18MR 205.1}
[18MR 205.2]          Unless men possess the love of Christ, the qualifications that otherwise would be of value in God's work will be controlled by the natural selfishness of the human heart. Christ desires every man's character to be a harmonious whole. If it is not this, deformity exists. God and man must cooperate to make the character beautiful and symmetrical.  {18MR 205.2}
[18MR 205.3]          Self must be wholly surrendered to Christ. "Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God." You are to surrender your ownership of self to God's ownership.  {18MR 205.3}
[18MR 205.4]          Sanctification is a progressive work. It is a continuous work, leading human beings higher and still higher. It brings perfection. It does not leave love behind, but brings it constantly into the life as the very essence of Christlikeness.  {18MR 205.4}
[18MR 205.5]          Day by day we are building characters, and we are building for eternity. God desires us in our lives to give the people of the world an example of what they should be and can be through obedience to the gospel of Christ. Let us place ourselves in God's hands, to be dealt with as He sees best. "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." "Ye are God's husbandry; ye are God's building." If we build in cooperation with Him, the structure that we rear will                                         -206-     day by day grow more beautiful and more symmetrical, under the hand of the Master-builder, and through all eternity it will endure.  {18MR 205.5}
[18MR 206.1]          Christ says to us, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." He is our Example. During His life on earth, He was ever kind and gentle. His influence was ever fragrant, for in Him dwelt perfect love. He was never sour and unapproachable, and He never compromised with wrong to obtain favor. If we have His righteousness, we shall be like Him in gentleness, in forbearance, in unselfish love. Shall we not, by dwelling in the sunshine of His presence, become mellowed by His grace?  {18MR 206.1}
[18MR 206.2]          Let us honor our profession of faith. Let us adorn our lives with beautiful traits of character. Harshness of speech and action is not of Christ, but of Satan. Shall we by clinging to our imperfections and deformities make Christ ashamed of us? His grace is promised to us. If we will receive it, it will adorn our lives. Then, in the place of disparaging our fellow workers, we shall help them to climb the ladder of progression. Deformity will be exchanged for practical godliness. Our lives will be adorned with the Christian graces.  {18MR 206.2}
[18MR 206.3]          God calls for our cooperation. His requirements are just and reasonable. Shall we not strive to be Christians in life as well as in profession? Shall we not ennoble our lives by the dignity of a steadfast purpose? When we take the name of Christ, we pledge ourselves to be true representatives of Him. We are not to bring into the Christian life our natural and cultivated tendencies to wrong. Christ must be formed within, the hope of glory. Our daily life must become more like the Christ-life. We must be Christians in deed and in truth if we ever see the kingdom of heaven.  {18MR 206.3}
[18MR 206.4]          Christ will have nothing to do with pretense. He will welcome to the heavenly courts only those whose Christianity is genuine. The lives of those                                         -207-     professing Christians who do not live the life of Christ are a mockery to religion.  {18MR 206.4}
[18MR 207.1]          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 our people bring Christ's righteousness into the daily life, sinners will be converted, and victories over the enemy will be gained.  {18MR 207.1}
[18MR 207.2]          "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."--Ms 168, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 207.2}
[18MR 208.1]       MR No. 1332 - God's Church the Light of the World         Matthew 5:13-16. "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." The aggressive power of the gospel is in proportion to the genuine faith and piety and example of the believers. The church is to be the Lord's light bearer to shine amid the moral darkness of a corrupt and sinful generation. There can be nothing in the world that is so dear to God as His church. Nothing is guarded by Him with such jealous care. Nothing offends God more than for the church to be in a disunited state, because it bears to the world a very bad testimony and example.  {18MR 208.1}
[18MR 208.2]          The Lord Jesus is the Maker of the mind which man has debased and enfeebled by sin. The central power of the earth's fallen subjects is a demon. He has set up his throne in the world. Christ proposes the means of recovery through the great work of redemption. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." The Lord Jesus, through sacrificing His life upon the cross, purposed by the agency of the Holy Spirit to bring man to see his position as a sinner and surrender his will to God's will. He will sanctify every soul that will receive the gracious gift, and ［will］ give him power to become a son of God. He takes away the destructive tendencies of the sinful nature and brings the human agency into His service.  {18MR 208.2}
[18MR 208.3]          Working through His Holy Spirit He sanctifies and cleanses the soul temple. Thus, though his whole powers had become deranged, man may be brought back restored to his original relationship to God, and become an agent of good to                                         -209-     every other man. In place of the diseased, soul-and-body-destroying principles of evil, he follows heavenly principles. Sanctified by the agency of the Holy Spirit, his influence upon his fellow man becomes aggressive to expel from the earth the evils produced through the satanic perversion of that which God designed should be only good. All these perverted powers the Lord Jesus will turn to His service, and man becomes the human channel to work the will of God to redeem and bring back the people that have broken away from their allegiance to God, and to unite them to their proper Center.  {18MR 208.3}
[18MR 209.1]          These restoring agencies are not to be confined to a few places but extended to the ends of the earth. Oh, the depths of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! The perfect unity for which Christ prayed would be exemplified when his disciples should be one in heart, in belief of the truth, in sympathy, in true courtesy, in compassion and grace, exemplifying the union existing between the Father and the Son. John 17:16-23. This unity is the power of the truth sanctifying the soul.  {18MR 209.1}
[18MR 209.2]          We feel deeply the need of the human agency accepting all the grace of Christ, which will be expressed in that love for one another which existed between the Father and the Son. Men and women must take themselves to task, and in speech, in spirit, and in Christian forbearance manifest the miracle of grace in true conversion, which bears the credentials of Christ to the world. We are His by creation and by His redeeming power which evidences that God has sent His Son into the world to take away the sin of the world. The virtue of truth and of temperance in all things must be brought into daily practice, for this is the Lord's plan for our growth in grace and righteousness. We are very near the end of time, and our testimony to the world is to bear divine, vitalizing influence of the power of truth.                                         -210-  {18MR 209.2}
[18MR 210.1]          The medical missionary work is the right hand of the body, and I write that this shall not be ［involved in］ the drawing of means away from the needy places where it should go, to create in any place a large, mammoth institution that will tend to continue the dearth of establishing the memorials of God in many places. I speak to my brethren that this must not be. Small centers will be made in many places because many places will need them. Invest means carefully. The work must become established in places where there is nothing.  {18MR 210.1}
[18MR 210.2]          Not every church in every conference may have their minds made clear and distinct as to where the work shall be established. There may be restaurants to be set in operation. Let not men have charge of these matters who will begin to enlarge when in doing some great thing they will accumulate debts that will crush out their life and their courage to do a good work. The truth is that our position is constantly changing, and we know not what sort of experience is before us. Our past and present light will not answer in all respects for the future necessities. We must have fresh food every day. Of the future we know not what shall be, except that which the Word of God maps out before us. We know not unless the matter is mapped out before us by the Holy Spirit.--Ms 176, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 210.2}
[18MR 211.1]       MR No. 1333 - Diary Fragment - February to May, 1902; The Spirit of Thanksgiving; Importance of Unity         St. Helena, Calif., Feb. 2, 1902. I have much that I should be thankful for this day. I am at home and I praise the Lord for His great goodness in keeping me from harm. Again I am in my own home. We are having some cold weather, but no blizzards; some fog a portion of the day. It is not really fog, but the sky is hazy. I am not sleeping well. I am speaking before congregations in my visions in the night season. Many are represented to me as all ready to hear in new places where the truth has not been. What shall we answer in that day to our Redeemer, for our neglect is made apparent. Wherever there is a church organized in any place, the members are to be educated by men of God's appointment to win others to the truth.  {18MR 211.1}
[18MR 211.2]          St. Helena, Feb. 3, 1902. I thank the Lord I am in my own home. I am still suffering with throat and lungs and heart difficulty. I have an urgent invitation to occupy rooms in the house I built and sold to the sanitarium on the hillside. The rooms I occupied as my own are now to be used by me if I will accept them and take treatment at the sanitarium. But this is not an easy thing to do. Here are my workers in the office I have built to accommodate them. Should I leave, the work could not be carried on successfully. I appreciate the favor so kindly presented to me. I shall make every effort that I think in my weak condition I can bear. I have decided to remain in my own home, if I can do                                         -212-     so, until I am strong enough to ride in my carriage to the sanitarium and take treatment, which I cannot possibly do just now.  {18MR 211.2}
[18MR 212.1]         I have at the present time an indistinct voice. I can talk but a few words, then no sound comes. This is singular for me, but my workers need me where they are at work that I can, even in my feebleness, prepare work for them. I have much written. I dare not give myself up to receive thorough treatment, for this could not be and I continue my writing.  {18MR 212.1}
[18MR 212.2]          There is such a thing as overdoing the personal treatment given to sick persons. Quietude, rest, sleep, careful diet, cheerful surroundings, and plenty of sleep will be essential. Sleep I cannot obtain as I would. I carry far too intense an interest for souls that know the truth and are out of the way. I am deeply moved by the consideration that there are many cases who need words of counsel, reproof, exhortation; many are not growing up into Christ, seeking His favor and strength from His strength, and many need encouragement. Often I am unable to sleep past twelve o'clock. I retire between seven o'clock and eight. My heart is drawn out in deep, earnest desire to see and understand what is my lot and place for me to occupy. Next November 26 I shall be 75 years old. I praise God for my memory and my reason, even in my infirmities.  {18MR 212.2}
[18MR 212.3]          St. Helena, Feb. 3 ［4?］, 1902. Slept until half past twelve o'clock. My mind is constantly exercised upon subjects which concern our spiritual welfare, preparatory for uniting with the royal family above. Solemn and weighty facts are to be considered by Seventh-day Adventist as a people.  {18MR 212.3}
[18MR 212.4]          St. Helena, Feb. 9, 1902. I cannot sleep after half past twelve o'clock.  {18MR 212.4}
[18MR 212.5]          St. Helena, March 1, 1902. I am this morning unable to sleep after two o'clock. I am very much exercised upon the subject of unity of heart and of soul, one with another. When Christ has given us so much instruction upon this                                          -213-     point, what can the human agent say that can make an impression if the Great Teacher's lesson are disregarded? What can they mean to practice in their spirit and service, contrary to the teachings of Christ, to break up and not unify?  {18MR 212.5}
[18MR 213.1]          I am pained at heart when I consider how much Christ is dishonored by this disregard of His teachings. The Lord Jesus hath spoken, and in His prayer to His Father presented the result of unity and love of brethren in the impression made upon the unbelieving world. Shall we then repent and be doers of the words of Christ, and cultivate love, true courtesy, and gentleness, giving respect to the Lord's purchased possession, and demonstrating the truthfulness of the words of Christ? John 17:20-24.  {18MR 213.1}
[18MR 213.2]          I would be pleased if I could attend the meeting in the sanitarium chapel, but as yet I dare not venture to speak to the people. I am trusting faith to be confirmed in my health that I may yet bear my testimony as I have done in the past. I am waiting, praying, watching thereunto. We are admonished, "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. . . . Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man" ［Colossians 4:2, 5, 6］.  {18MR 213.2}
[18MR 213.3]          Salvation through Jesus Christ is an individual experience. We are not to make the mistake ［of thinking］ that we are Christians unless we are daily practicing Christlikeness in character. If we have Christ abiding in the soul by faith, the experience is of a character that speech will be after the pattern of Christ. If we have brought along into the religious profession the sharp speeches, the quick temper in unsanctified speech, we misrepresent Christ and                                          -214-     put Him to shame, and we need to be converted, for we dishonor the name of Christian.  {18MR 213.3}
[18MR 214.1]          The words of those who speak unadvisedly corrupt themselves and others. Such men and women cannot carry their wicked, unsanctified characters into heaven. Then shall we not cut away everything of the kind? Shall we not realize we must be converted?  {18MR 214.1}
[18MR 214.2]          "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul. "Faith may claim complete cleansing, growing into the likeness and beauty of Christ's character.  {18MR 214.2}
[18MR 214.3]          Elmshaven, St. Helena, March 30, 1902. I praise the Lord this morning. I have awakened at two o'clock, the usual hour of awaking for some time, and now I thought I must change this order of things, for I cannot keep up this way, writing so early. I become sleepy in the daytime and yet cannot sleep usually, but I did sleep yesterday afternoon. Psalm 103, this is the language of my heart: ［Verses 1-5, quoted］.  {18MR 214.3}
[18MR 214.4]         I have a thankful heart that my heavenly Father is attentive to the wants of those who seek Him. I want my mind stayed upon God. I want His Holy Spirit to rest upon me. I want to honor the Lord daily. We need a deeper sense of the grace of God. All our ministers need deep searching of heart. They need to seek the Lord in humility of soul. The work of grace carried forward intelligently reveals itself in works that are righteous.  {18MR 214.4}
[18MR 214.5]          I have a message that the Lord has given me for His people: Let every family solemnly seek the Lord. Let every family consider Psalm 100. Let fathers and mothers awaken to a sense of their individual responsibility. "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. . . . Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless                                         -215     His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations."  {18MR 214.5}
[18MR 215.1]         How simple is all this instruction! Psalm 101. We need to work diligently. We have no time to squander foolishly.  We have a heaven to win and eternal life to gain.  {18MR 215.1}
[18MR 215.2]         I know not how long my life may be spared, but this is a matter over which I have not a control. I long for Christ's appearing.  {18MR 215.2}
[18MR 215.3]          St. Helena, April 1, 1902. I have not slept after two o'clock. I am praying to my heavenly Father that He would arouse the church members that they may understand their accountability and responsibility to God. Medical missionary work is mingled with so much that is selfish and not true according to the appellation, that I am seriously burdened.                                                    -    {18MR 215.3}
[18MR 215.4]          We are having some showers--misting rain that is good for the land. I cannot sleep after twelve p.m. I have improved in strength. My voice is not hopelessly lost. It is coming to me again gradually, thank the Lord. O my soul, praise His holy name. I am encouraged. I shall yet have speech before the great congregation.  {18MR 215.4}
[18MR 215.5]          St. Helena, April 19, 1902. Spoke in the sanitarium chapel. Colossians 3:1-16; 4. ［This entry from Journal No. 24, p. 206.］  {18MR 215.5}
[18MR 215.6]         Elmshaven, St. Helena, May 10, 1902. Sabbath morning. I awoke at half past three. I thank my heavenly Father for rest and sleep. I want my heart stayed upon God today. Good is the Lord and greatly to be praised. Yes, the birds are singing their songs of thanksgiving to God their Creator. One songster commences his song of praise and another unites his musical talent of                                          -216-     song with his mate; then there are other voices of praise that join the choir, and they fill my office room with their cheerful, happy music.--Ms 221, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 215.6}
[18MR 217.1]       MR No. 1334 - Diary Selections - November, 1902; Evils in the Publishing House; Christians to Reflect Christ; Not to Speculate About God         St. Helena, Calif., Nov. 12, 1902. This morning ［I］ have written many pages to be copied. I slept until half past four o'clock. Last evening Edson and Emma White came upon evening train, and it must be that I met them and welcomed them to my home. I thank the Lord I can say my rest was undisturbed until half past four in the morning.  {18MR 217.1}
[18MR 217.2]          We were so thankful that my children came through from Nashville in safety. They took tourist sleeper but report the jostling and shaking about was quite wearisome.  {18MR 217.2}
[18MR 217.3]         I cannot converse with them, for my soul is bowed down with grief and sorrows that cannot be expressed to anyone. They cannot understand the many things that are presented before me in the visions of the night. I am conversing with wise instructors in the night season. Last night there were some things I was listening to of great interest to me. The subject was being canvassed in regard to the character of books to be used in our schools. The One of authority was speaking. The statements were that the character of the books and their study was an index of the standard of the mind of those who used them. There are too many books perused or run through which are of very little profit but are doing the minds positive injury. There is too much poured into the mind from too many books, while there are too few books of real advantage studied.                                          -218-  {18MR 217.3}
[18MR 218.1]          Elmshaven, St. Helena, Calif., Nov. 26, 1902. I now write in the early morning hours in one of my old diaries I find close at hand. Cannot sleep after 12:00 p.m. Commence writing. I have things presented to me by revelation, and under the most discouraging burden pressing me as a cart beneath sheaves I am in an agony of distress.  {18MR 218.1}
[18MR 218.2]          I have had representation that the Lord's Holy Spirit has not been working upon the minds of the leading men in the Review and Herald office. I seemed to be passing through the office days in succession, in different rooms. There is a condition of things represented that justice and integrity and the love of God are not teaching and guiding the managers. How long will God continue to bear with the perversity and unsanctified working of the men who should be afraid, terribly afraid, because they are far from working in straightforward, righteous lines? The Lord will soon cleanse that publishing house as He cleansed the temple courts of its defilement. Iniquity is practiced, and the more it is practiced the harder and more unimpressible are the hearts of the actors. Every unfair scheme that is planned that savors of the least selfish grasping is the same that God has reproved over and over again.  {18MR 218.2}
[18MR 218.3]          This is one of the reasons, as I see it, that the Lord has declared there shall be publishing plants in other places. It shall be that I am not to be dependent longer on Battle Creek. There is unprincipled work done. God looks upon it and His wrath is kindled, and God is soon to rise out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity, and the earth shall disclose her blood and no more cover her slain.  {18MR 218.3}
[18MR 218.4]          Elmshaven, Nov. 26, 1902. This day I am 75 years old. I thank my heavenly Father that I have the use of all my faculties. I can occupy the room fitted up for me and ascend and descend the stairs with quickness and ease, requiring no                                          -219-     assistance. I have every reason to praise the Lord that my right hand has not lost its cunning. I can trace the writings upon paper with ease; for this I am thankful. My mind in regard to the Scriptures is clear, and the comfort I receive from writing on Scriptural subjects is a source of continual gratitude. For one month I am awakened at twelve o'clock, and matters have been opened before me and deeply impressed upon my mind in regard to the cause and work of God to be carried forward at this important period of time when all the signs Christ has foretold should come are taking place as He predicted.  {18MR 218.4}
[18MR 219.1]          Elmshaven, Nov. 27, 1902. I am spending hours of the night, while others are asleep, in prayer. The past life is woven into your future. We must individually make every failure that appears thus a success, because we learned how to guard our minds, our words, our deportment. By looking unto Jesus, by beholding Him in His ministry, we shall become changed into His likeness in character, and then when imbued with His Holy Spirit we give glory to God in reflecting to others the grace bestowed upon us. Thus we declare the glory of God, by copying His character which we highly esteem and by being intensely in earnest to declare His excellencies in our own life character.  {18MR 219.1}
[18MR 219.2]          My prayer is daily that I may speak with a sanctified tongue. Every Christian is to declare the attributes of the character of Christ. He looks upon Christ, His goodness, His patience, His compassion, and His love, and he cheerfully employs all his powers and all his faculties in His service. False motives and spurious principles decidedly lead away from Christ. Their seeming good works cannot bear the test and trial, and when brought into strait places self breaks forth in words of criticism and harsh words of condemnation of that which he should approve.                                          -220-  {18MR 219.2}
[18MR 220.1]          It is the love and fear of God and respect to all His commandments which is an influence to provoke to love and good works. Every human agency that loves Jesus Christ will take care of the disposition of the mind in that he will not sin in thought, in tongue and voice, or in expression. By our words we shall be justified or by our words we shall be condemned.        ［Two entries above from Journal No. 43, pp. 1, 2.］  {18MR 220.1}
[18MR 220.2]          Elmshaven, Nov. 27, 1902. I have been deeply impressed by the Spirit of God that we are to pass through severe trials. Everyone's faith will be tested. We must study carefully the old waymarks. These experiences in the past are to be revived. Daniel is to stand out conspicuously with the Revelation given to John on the Isle of Patmos.  {18MR 220.2}
[18MR 220.3]          Daniel 12. Read attentively this chapter. Hosea 4:1. ［Verses 1-6, quoted.］ There is work to be done. Who will take it up?  {18MR 220.3}
[18MR 220.4]         In our experience in these last days we shall meet every conceivable thing that Satan can invent to make of none effect the established points of our faith that have been, in the providence of God, so greatly blessed. These foundation principles are to be held fast unto the end. Read the Word of God.  {18MR 220.4}
[18MR 220.5]          ［This entry from Journal No. 20, pp. 351, 352.］        Elmshaven, Nov. 28, 1902. I am deeply troubled in mind. I rose from my bed at twelve o'clock. During the night in the visions God has given me I have been in one company assembled together in Battle Creek, another in New York City, another at Nashville. I cannot clearly write out all these things this day; my strength is not sufficient. Oh, how sad it is that men will permit the enemy to deceive their souls, and they will be wrought upon by the enemy ［to the extent］ that they will dare venture to exalt their own finite judgment and express word and devise plans and methods which I have been instructed are                                         -221-     decidedly contrary to the expressions and plans of God in behalf of His people. In thus doing they compel me to stand under the load of refuting the banner under which they stand and declaring that plan and that course of action that the Lord has been laying out distinctly before me again and still again, in advancing the work, that His truth shall not be leavened with men's diseased ideas of truth.  {18MR 220.5}
[18MR 221.1]          How much care, anxiety, and wearing of the physical and mental powers they might save me in my old age, and the souls who are being deceived, when I am still in the field of battle discharging the very duties the Lord has laid upon them, to correct the wrong course of their own action. They are doing the very work Satan would have them do, which labor comes upon me, which will have to be undone if I act conscientiously, because they do not understand what is truth through which they must be sanctified. I esteem all the Lord's precepts concerning His work as being the right way, and that His plans are not to be broken up by human wisdom and human devising.  {18MR 221.1}
[18MR 221.2]          Elmshaven, Nov. 29, 1902. I awakened this morning having passed a good night. Slept until three o'clock. I lay in bed until nearly four o'clock, meditating and praying the Lord to give me clearness of perception to understand the truth as it is in Jesus, and then, by appropriating the truth daily, it will be to me the bread of life; the parable will be understood and acted, for is it not of weighty consequence? Eternal life is the result of our humanity availing itself of the privilege of being partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. Watchfulness over our individual self means everything to us.  {18MR 221.2}
[18MR 221.3]          ［Two entries above from Journal No. 43, pp. 3 and 25.］                                       -222-  {18MR 221.3}
[18MR 222.1]          Elmshaven, Nov. 30, 1902. The subject of speculation regarding God's personality we will not venture to express, except in the language of the Word which represents His personality. There is to be no discussion over this question lest God would give unmistakable revelation of what He is that would extinguish the one who dares venture on the holy ground in his speculative theories, as some ventured to do in opening the ark to see what was in it as its power and how God was manifested. The men were slain for their curiosity science.  {18MR 222.1}
[18MR 222.2]          Let human beings consider that by all their searching they can never interpret God. When the redeemed shall be pure and clean to come into His presence, they will understand that all that has reference to the eternal God, the unapproachable God, cannot be represented in figures. It is safe to contemplate God, the great and wonderful God, and Jesus Christ, the express image of God. God gave His only begotten Son to our world, that we might through His righteous character behold the character of God. In heaven we shall be in the eternal presence of God.  {18MR 222.2}
[18MR 222.3]          In this life ever remember, "Thou God seest me." Do nothing you would not like God to see. Speak nothing you would not like God to hear. ［Write nothing］ you would not like God to read. Your time is precious. Read no books of which you would not like God to say, Show it to me. Spend not your time in any foolish action that would bring condemnation to your soul if you considered, The Lord is looking upon me. ［This entry from Journal No. 51, p. 9.］--Ms 223, 1902.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 222.3}
[18MR 223.1]       MR No. 1335 - God to Control His Heritage            (Written August 1, 1895, at Granville, N.S.W., Australia.)          I am unable to put away the anxious thoughts that fill my mind in regard to the work of God. I feel that to weep would be a relief. I am sure that a work must be done for those in positions of trust in Battle Creek. They will never be safe, trustworthy men until they are laborers together with God. The question often comes to me, "Has God chosen these men to devise and plan and execute in behalf of His work, when they have not a vital connection with Him?" The men God chooses to bear burdens in His work are to sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn from Him how to repress their unChristlike desires and inclinations. God has not given men power to interfere between a human being and his conscience.  {18MR 223.1}
[18MR 223.2]          The question of religious liberty needs to be clearly comprehended by our people in more ways than one. With outstretched arms men are seeking to steady the ark, and the anger of the Lord is kindled against them because they think that their position entitles them to say what the Lord's servants shall do and what they shall not do. They think themselves competent to decide what shall be brought before God's people, and what shall be repressed. The Lord inquires of them, "Who has required this at your hand? Who has given you the burden of being conscience for My people? By what spirit are you guided and controlled when you seek to restrict their liberty? I have not chosen you as I chose Moses--as men through whom I can communicate divine instruction to My people. I have not placed the lines of control in your hands. The responsibility that                                           -224-     rested on Moses--of voicing the words of God to the people--has never been delegated to you."  {18MR 223.2}
[18MR 224.1]          Moses was specially chosen to be the visible leader of the children of Israel. Through long years of discipline he learned the lesson of humility, and he became a man whom God could teach and guide. He endured as seeing Him who is invisible. God trusted him--a daily learner in the school of Christ --with the leadership of the host of Israel. God talked with him face to face, as a man talketh with his friend. He was the meekest of all men. He did not seek to control the Holy Spirit, but was himself controlled by the Spirit.  {18MR 224.1}
[18MR 224.2]          Do the men who are today swaying and molding the work of God give evidence that they are swayed and molded by divine power? Do they give evidence that they have received the Spirit of God? Is truth enthroned in their hearts? Is Christ revealed in their daily experience? Is the law of kindness on their lips?  {18MR 224.2}
[18MR 224.3]          There is an evil, a great evil, that is to be rooted out of all council meetings and board meetings. We are living in perilous times. Men are striving for the control over their fellow men. God is displeased and dishonored. Man is led to fear man rather than God. My brethren, has not the word of God been dismissed from your councils? Have not the words of men had too much power? Has not religious freedom been excluded from your assemblies? Have you not censured your fellow men, when you yourselves were standing under the censure of God? Take your hands off your brethren. They are not to be under the control of any man or set of men. Men are not to league together to bind their fellow men by rules and restrictions. God knows the characters of men. He sees their weakness, and He has not put into their hands the power that belongs alone to                                           -225-     Him. He has not given them the right to say what their fellow men shall do and what they shall not do.  {18MR 224.3}
[18MR 225.1]          It is the greatest presumption for man to assume the right of dictation and control over his fellow men. God is the owner of man. To his Maker, man stands or falls. To God he is responsible, not to his fellow men. Every man has an individuality of his own, which is not to be submerged in any other human being. The life of each one must be hid with Christ in God. Men are under God's control, not under the control of weak, erring human beings. They are to be left free to be guided by the Holy Spirit, not by the fitful, perverse spirit of unsanctified men.  {18MR 225.1}
[18MR 225.2]          The encroachments made by men on the liberty of their fellow men are condemned by God. These encroachments, which are not seen in their true bearing, are inspired by the enemy of God, to cut off the opportunity for God to work on minds by His Spirit. Those who do not know God, who refuse to hear His voice or to be ruled by Him, will stand with cord in hand, ready to bind the Lord's workers and trammel them in their efforts.  {18MR 225.2}
[18MR 225.3]          Let God be recognized as the supreme Ruler of His heritage. Let every man place himself under His control. Let Him be recognized in all our assemblies, in every business meeting, every council, every committee. He sees all that is done, and hears all that is said. "Thou God seest me." Let these words be kept ever in mind. They will be a safeguard against imprudent, passionate speeches, against all desire to domineer. They will repress words that should never be spoken, and resolutions that men have no right to make --resolutions that restrict the liberty of human beings.  {18MR 225.3}
[18MR 225.4]          Let God place restrictions on His workers, but let man beware how he places restrictions where God places none. If men are permitted to control the                                         -226-     judgment of their fellow men, oppression will result. The cause of God will be bound about. Scheme after scheme that is unjust will be planned. Let not men take on themselves the responsibility of controlling the words and actions of their fellow men. Let our institutions give place to the working of God on human minds. Let God have opportunity to control. Should the principle obtain sway that in speaking and writing, men are to be under the control of human beings, deadly evils would be the result.  {18MR 225.4}
[18MR 226.1]          God calls upon men to act under His supervision, to accept His standard, to take all their decisions and plans to Him for approval. His holiness, His justice, is to keep them from unprincipled actions.  {18MR 226.1}
[18MR 226.2]          "Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?" (Isaiah 2:22). ［Psalms 146:3-10, quoted.］--Ms. 51, 1895.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Ms.  {18MR 226.2}
[18MR 227.1]      MR No. 1336 - Workers to be Educated in the School of Christ         (Written February 2, 1905, from "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, California, to "Dear Brethren Ballenger and Palmer.")  {18MR 227.1}
[18MR 227.2]          We were very much pleased to receive a letter from Brother Ballenger, full of hope and telling of the good results of the work of our sanitarium in Paradise Valley. This is just as we have expected it would be, and we thank the Lord for such a good, encouraging record. The Lord be praised.  {18MR 227.2}
[18MR 227.3]          I am pleased, Brother Ballenger, that you and your wife are at the sanitarium. This is as it should be. If you possibly can, fit up more bathrooms without delay. As soon as you can, finish the bathrooms as they should be finished. Get this sanitarium in full running order as soon as possible.  {18MR 227.3}
[18MR 227.4]          Oh, how much we need experienced workers as matrons and helpers in our institutions! I cannot encourage you to employ as matron the one mentioned in your letter.  {18MR 227.4}
[18MR 227.5]          The Lord will have helpers prepared for the fulfillment of their duties, if the men and women who are thirsting for the knowledge that will qualify them to labor in our medical institutions will follow His directions, not going into such long preparations, but taking right hold, and putting the whole soul into their work in the fear of the Lord and with love for the souls for whom Christ has given His life.  {18MR 227.5}
[18MR 227.6]          We felt a little disappointed, Brother Ballenger, that you could not accompany Brother Palmer to the meeting at Mountain View. But you were in the place where the Lord wanted you to be. Good is the Lord, and greatly to be                                        -228-     praised. If only souls will be converted from the error of their ways, and seek the Lord, and learn the science of preserving the health of the body and the soul! And where can they learn these much needed lessons as well as at our sanitariums, which the Lord has said should be established in many places. Lectures might be given to the multitudes, but while the words spoken would enlighten many minds, how can people understand fully without a practical knowledge? One patient, successfully treated, will have a testimony to bear of the virtue of the simple methods of treatment--the simple, healthful remedies that nature has provided without the use of any drugs.  {18MR 227.6}
[18MR 228.1]          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 said 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). 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.  {18MR 228.1}
[18MR 228.2]          It was at the very beginning of His ministry that Christ began to gather in His helpers. This is a lesson to all ministers. They should constantly be looking for and training those who they think could help them in their work.                                        -229-     They should not stand alone, trying to do by themselves all that needs to be done.  {18MR 228.2}
[18MR 229.1]         Christ would make these humble fishermen, in connection with Himself, the means of taking men out of the service of Satan, and making them believers in Christ, teaching them in regard to the kingdom of God. In this work they would become His ministers, fishers of men. They were to be His prime ministers. But He did not tell them to go to worldly schools, to obtain the advantages of worldly cultivation. He did not tell them to go to the Jewish synagogues, to learn of the rabbis their customs and traditions, in order that they might be prepared for the work He had for them to do as His evangelists. He said, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."  {18MR 229.1}
[18MR 229.2]         Just as soon as Christ began to preach, He began to gather disciples, who were to hear all His words, and learn of Him, the great Teacher, and, afterward, preach the gospel. These disciples, supposed to be ignorant fishermen, were not to become teachers after the manner of the Jewish educators. They were to be Christ's witnesses, bearing to the world his truth, unmingled with the traditions and sophistries of men. By practicing His virtues, by walking and working with Him, they were to be qualified to be His representatives.  {18MR 229.2}
[18MR 229.3]         Christ's call, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men," and the power of His grace, manifested to them, was indeed their ordination, their appointment to the work of the gospel ministry. The Saviour's work as a teacher, His example, His opening of the Scriptures to the multitude, His works of healing, were preparing the disciples to carry on the work that He began. Through His words and through His sanctifying influence, He gave gifts unto men, preparing the members of this early church to be His messengers. His treasure of knowledge was put into earthen vessels. He did not advise His                                         -230-     disciples to learn of the Jewish teachers. By the simplicity of faith, by clean, pure, humble service, the disciples were being educated in His school, to carry responsibilities of the same kind that He was bearing.  {18MR 229.3}
[18MR 230.1]          Certainly 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.  {18MR 230.1}
[18MR 230.2]          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 had died. They must bring with them nothing like spiritual pride or self-indulgence. In speech, in voice, in every phrase of character, they must reveal the spiritual refinement, the Christlike courtesy, that connection with the Saviour gives. His tender love and compassion must constantly be revealed.  {18MR 230.2}
[18MR 230.3]         "Follow Me," were the words of the great Teacher, "and I will make you fishers of men." They must do this work with hearts filled with Christ's love for souls. They must pattern after Him in all things, sharing His tender compassion and His sternness against all evil working. Christ is the great Example for all. We are to be workers together with Him. Those who are in His service need to separate from all business entanglements that would tarnish their Christlikeness of character. The fishermen that the Saviour called straightway left their nets. Those who give themselves to the work of the ministry must not entangle themselves in business lines that will bring a                                         -231-     coarseness into their lives, and will be a detriment to their spiritual advancement in the work the Lord has given them to do.  {18MR 230.3}
[18MR 231.1]          All through my Christian experience I have been presented with the neglect of our churches to show that care and wisdom that Christ would have them show in looking not only on their own things, but also on the things of others. We are to be kind and attentive to those around us, helping in every necessity, relieving the oppressed, and giving them every encouragement. To love God supremely and to love our neighbor as ourselves--these are the two great principles of the law of God. If the Lord has placed means in our hands so that we can relieve those who are in need, there should not be a question in our minds as to the part we should act toward these unfortunate ones.  {18MR 231.1}
[18MR 231.2]          But I am stretching out my letter lengthily. I shall now close by saying that I am of your mind regarding the well. Before any more money is expended on it, prove that which you have already obtained. Let the blessing of success lead all who are interested in this work to be thankful and praise the Lord. We desire that everything shall be done economically, but not in a niggardly way.  {18MR 231.2}
[18MR 231.3]          We feel grateful to God that Brother Palmer has been able to connect with the work for a time. He can now thank God that the efforts put forth have been a success. Those who have been interested in this institution, and have given of their means to set it in operation, should be encouraged.-- Letter 53, 1905.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. Dec. 17 1987. Entire Letter.  {18MR 231.3}
[18MR 232.1]       MR No. 1337 - To Our Churches in Oakland and Berkeley: An Appeal to Repent, Be Converted, and Reform              (Written September 26, 1909, from Sanitarium, California.)          I have been instructed to give a message of warning to our churches in Oakland and Berkeley. Many who profess to believe the truth for this time are unconverted in heart. I have been shown that many whose names are on the church books are unprepared for the coming of Christ. There are whole families who are deceived in regard to their spiritual fitness to stand the test of the judgment.  {18MR 232.1}
[18MR 232.2]          Many who love self-indulgence and who murmur at the straight testimony of the Laodicean message, are ignorant of how sinful their actions really are; but in the judgment they will be ashamed of their course of ingratitude and rebellion against the One who has borne so long with them, and who has not cut them off in their sins. No confession, no weeping, will then avail for those who have spoiled their record. Many who now claim to be the disciples of Christ will be numbered among those who would not repent, but who have deceived their souls unto their eternal ruin. The evasion of truth will not give courage to any soul in the day of judgment to open his lips in self-defense. Then the books will be opened that bear the record of the works of every individual.  {18MR 232.2}
[18MR 232.3]         I am instructed to say that the Lord regards false professors as rebels against Him, for their actions bring reproach to His name. Oh, that their                                                                              233  murmurings might be turned to self-reproach, and their complainings to repentance!  {18MR 232.3}
[18MR 233.1]          God has sent messages from His Word to the souls who are living careless lives, and who are unashamed of their wrong course of action. I heard the words spoken: "Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the Lord, and my judgment is passed over from my God? Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of His understanding" ［Isaiah 40:27, 28］. If the careless, self- indulgent souls would seek the Lord and confess their sins, they would see how their unconverted lives lead others astray, and they would repent and be converted.  {18MR 233.1}
[18MR 233.2]          Many parents conclude that because their children have been baptized, that they are therefore quite safe. But baptism is not necessarily an evidence that the converting power of God is constantly at work in the daily life of the individual.  {18MR 233.2}
[18MR 233.3]          I am bidden to lift up my voice like a trumpet, and to speak plainly concerning the perils that surround our children and youth. Satan is actively at work, laying stumbling blocks in the way of their Christian advancement. He has many schemes by which to deceive souls and to destroy the spiritual discernment, that evil may be interpreted as righteousness. One of his most successful schemes is to place within their reach the foolish storybook to read, when they need the convicting power of the Word of the living God to impress mind and heart how to develop a Christlike character.  {18MR 233.3}
[18MR 233.4]          God is constantly appealing to the human heart, bidding it recognize His love and mercy, and accept His righteousness in the place of the principles of evil. Thus He has pleaded with mankind in all ages. In Noah's day Christ spoke                                          -234-     to men through a human agency and preached to those who were in bondage to sin. He came to Israel enshrouded in a pillar of cloud by day and in a pillar of fire by night. He it was who educated that vast multitude in their wilderness wandering.  {18MR 233.4}
[18MR 234.1]          Israel needed just the experience that God gave to them, and there was no other power that could deal with them as Christ did through all that long journey in the wilderness. The education  of Israel was not entrusted to any human agency; they were taught by One who was infinite in wisdom. They were daily learners of what God required His church on earth to be.  {18MR 234.1}
[18MR 234.2]          There are many who do not weigh these things sufficiently. The instruction given to Israel should be understood today by every soul living. Man may claim great intelligence, but he needs more than human intelligence in order to grasp the revelations of the gospel, which the Lord declares has been hidden for ages. The deceiving works of Satan beguile the conscience in regard to individual weaknesses and sins, and hundreds are caught in his snares.  {18MR 234.2}
[18MR 234.3]          In Oakland there has been for years a strong influence against the principles of health reform, which has counterworked the messages the Lord has given concerning the use of flesh meats and the use of drugs.  {18MR 234.3}
[18MR 234.4]          When the Lord sent instruction regarding the principles of health reform and the dangers attending the use of flesh meats and the use of drugs, there were physicians standing in our sanitariums who chose to hold to their own ideas, to carry out their own plans for the table. They were opposed to the reforms that were called for, and indulgence of appetite was permitted in the rooms of the patients which was contrary to the principles for the maintenance of which our sanitariums were established.                                           -235-  {18MR 234.4}
[18MR 235.1]          The Lord gave light outlining a different order of things, but His messages were disregarded, and opposing principles were allowed for a time to rule. Sanitarium work which is carried on under the name Seventh-day Adventist should stand clearly for the true principles of health reform, otherwise a complicated condition of things will follow, and the work will be made severely hard for the genuine reformers.  {18MR 235.1}
[18MR 235.2]          The men chosen by our churches to stand as leaders and burden-bearers, should be those who are sound in the faith, and not men whose general influence has been to counterwork the messages the Lord has given to the church to point out the dangers of His people. In our churches in Oakland and Berkeley there has been exercised an unbecoming jurisdiction which the Lord does not approve.  {18MR 235.2}
[18MR 235.3]          My brethren and sisters, the end is nearer than when we first believed. I would say to the believers who have met at Berkeley, You are a mixed company. I might mention the names of some whom I have been shown stand in a wrong relation to God and His work, but this would not be best at this time. If things continue as they have been, I shall have to do this. There are others who will understand when the converting power of truth shall take hold of them. Those who have seen and heard so much to confirm their faith, and yet have not manifested genuine repentance, need to experience a true conversion. If their repentance is not thorough, they will work out the same plans in the future that they have carried in the past. There is a decided work to be done in the Berkeley church. If they will receive the messages of God, and will humble their hearts and be converted, then the union of the two companies will result in lasting good.  {18MR 235.3}
[18MR 235.4]          Marvelous blessings may be expected by the faithful, humble followers of Jesus Christ who follow on to know the Lord. "God so loved the world that He                                          -236-     gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." "The world by wisdom knew not God, but it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. As it is written, 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. But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God" ［1 Corinthians 2:9, 10］.  {18MR 235.4}
[18MR 236.1]          The Lord has light and wisdom for His people, which they should expect, receive, and cherish. Let there be decided changes made. Let those who have been accusers, and who have stood ready to take offense at any word or move that seemed to them to be ill-advised, humble their hearts, and pray that the spirit of division and dissension may be taken away. The Lord has a work for all to do who will submit to be worked by His Holy Spirit.  {18MR 236.1}
[18MR 236.2]          Study the ninth chapter of Ezekiel. These words will be literally fulfilled; yet the time is passing, and the people are asleep. They refuse to humble their souls and to be converted. Not a great while longer will the Lord bear with the people who have such great and important truths revealed to them, but who refuse to bring these truths into their individual experience. The time is short. God is calling. Will you hear? Will you receive His message? Will you be converted before it is too late? Soon, very soon, every case will be decided for eternity.--Letter 106, 1909.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Dec. 17, 1987. Entire Letter.  {18MR 236.2}
[18MR 237.1]       MR No. 1338 - Reform Needed at St. Helena Health Retreat; Identify with Fellow Christians, not with Worldlings; an Appeal to Dr. Burke         I have learned of Dr. Burke's resignation. I am sorry indeed for this, for he is repeating his first experience. I see now, as ever I have, the danger of binding up in connection with, or in association in labor, with worldlings, professors or nonprofessors, who are in opposition to our faith, and who have no faith in the testimonies of reproof which the Lord sends. Not the least good can come of such a combination, or marriage, in business, believers with unbelievers. There can be in this our work no more combination than oil can mix with water. Here is where the delusion and deception have come in. The world has been placed in front to carry out the workings of the enemy by his own subjects, the children of disobedience, and the children of God have been belittled, suspicioned, accused, and defamed by the agents of the wicked one.  {18MR 237.1}
[18MR 237.2]          It is time our people who profess to love God heed the voice of the Spirit of God. Press together, press together. In unity there is strength; in dissension and drawing apart there is weakness. God would not have the soldiers in His army give away their fellow soldiers to the enemy, while they are overflowing with sympathy for the enemies of Christ and the truth. Oh, consistency, thou art a jewel! God's people who have for many years been engaged in the work of God are set aside for a complaint coming from the enemies of God and the truth, and these enemies of Christ take their place. Where all of one faith                                          -238-     should stand true as steel to the interests of each other, there is watching as spies, there are testimonies drawn out from persons, and an educating school is formed through this process of surmising and reporting evil that will separate the souls from God and open the door wide for the polluting, corrupting power of Satan to have full sway over the minds of the workers. There will be a suspicion created against one who is entirely innocent of any wrong, but who was simply discharging his duties as best he knew how. God is not at all in this business of those of the same faith thinking the worst of believers in the truth, while the mantle of sympathy and love covers those who are full of bitterness against Jesus, who is the Truth, the Way, and the Life.  {18MR 237.2}
[18MR 238.1]         God calls for all who claim to be His followers to show their faith by their works. We are not to enter into secret confidences with those who love not God nor keep His commandments. We are to seek most earnestly to keep in sympathy and harmony with those of like faith, and we will do this if we are indeed a living branch of the true Vine. They will be one in Christ, brought into practical sympathy with Christ in His mission and in His work, to save the souls for whom Christ has died, not in their sins but from their sins. But these sinners are not in any case to have the supremacy over the children of obedience and light.  {18MR 238.1}
[18MR 238.2]          The children of God are to appreciate and love that which Christ loves, and His saints are to be one in sympathy, as He, Christ, is one with the Father. They are not to draw apart from one another and work away from the prayer of Christ, and associate with worldlings, willing to be divided and stand apart from God's chosen ones, while they link up in bonds with unbelievers. In this they are showing what manner of spirit they are of, speaking bitterness to one another, thinking evil of one another, yet expiating largely on the sympathies                                          -239-     to be bestowed on those who hate God and the truth. All uncharitableness is to be excluded, and God's people are to be bound together in the holy bonds of unselfish love.  {18MR 238.2}
[18MR 239.1]          ［John 17:14-22, quoted.］        Here are truths deep, broad, and eternal to govern every church in our land that accepts the truth of heavenly origin. "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 17:23］. Here are the principles to be acted upon in the church and in all our institutions. To take any other course of action is not to keep the way of the Lord but to walk in the sparks of one's own kindling, and bringing in principles after the fashion and order of the world, which will take the strength and vital Godliness from the church, however much they may claim to be the followers of Christ.  {18MR 239.1}
[18MR 239.2]          Listen to Him who spake as never man spake to His children who believe in Him: "If ye shall ask any thing in My name, I will do it. If ye love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the 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 14:14-17］.  {18MR 239.2}
[18MR 239.3]          Then I ask, How can it be possible that those who love God and the truth will be truly estimated and kindly received by the world, who seeth not the truth because they see not and love not the Author of truth? "He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto Him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that Thou wilt manifest Thyself unto us, and not unto the world?" Let everyone mark the answer, "Jesus                                          -240-     answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings: and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father's which sent Me" ［Verses 21-24］.  {18MR 239.3}
[18MR 240.1]         Here is presented the line of demarkation clear and distinct between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not. Will those who are associated together in our important institutions see the difference Christ has placed between the believers and unbelievers? Then let them not advocate by precept and example that the disobedient, unbelieving element possess so much of the grace of Christ that they will appreciate the spirit and the work of those who love God and keep His commandments. Christ says they will not know the truth, because they see not Christ and the Father. Satan is well pleased if he can so impose upon inexperienced minds that they shall believe that all is good of the disobedient, all is virtue and truth in the words of those who are of the world, agents of the wicked one, while they must regard with suspicion those who love God and keep His commandments, and believe all is bad of them which the disobedient may arraign and forge against them.  {18MR 240.1}
[18MR 240.2]          There has come in a wonderful blindness in consequence of the perverted experience of men who have joined in bonds of affinity with the world. These men have not a vital connection with Christ. They see not Jesus as He is, and see not the beauty, loveliness, and exalted character of the truth. They put darkness for light and light for darkness.  {18MR 240.2}
[18MR 240.3]          Dr. Burke has placed himself on the world's side, and I feel very sorry for him, for his moral and spiritual eyesight is blinded. He sees nothing clearly, and after every effort shall be made to open these blind eyes, and if he refuses to see, then by all means accept his resignation. God would have men in                                           -241-     responsible positions who are praying for uncorrupted, unstained, pure religious discernment, that they may educate correctly in our health institutions. There must be no betrayal of sacred trusts, for this would be the traitor's work.  {18MR 240.3}
[18MR 241.1]          The institutions for health should not be a school where surface work is done and the heart uninstructed, but where there shall be education after the Divine mind and will; for, in order for our medical institutions to be what God would have them ［be］, there must come into them a regenerating power, a spiritual life, that each worker must strive to live by every word that proceedeth from the mouth of God. Not one of the workers are to receive their inspiration from those who are bitter against the truth, to institute a criticizing judging against their own brethren and sisters, whom they are taught by Christ to respect, to love, to esteem better than themselves. The workers at the Health Retreat need to unlearn many things. Those who are in positions as teachers need indeed that one teach them the first principles of Christianity, which is to love one another as Christ has loved them.  {18MR 241.1}
[18MR 241.2]          Whatever moral power any of us possess, it does not come by inheritance; it is attained only by ［a］ minute-by-minute fight of faith. This is the only way anyone can come into possession of the higher wisdom, which is first pure, then peaceable, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits. These words are to be carefully pondered. Unless they are practiced, souls will be lost. "Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another" ［Ephesians 4:25］. These words need to be acted upon, for the Lord looketh upon the heart, and He cannot be in any way deceived by pretense and by hypocrisy.  {18MR 241.2}
[18MR 241.3]          "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of                                            -242-     them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is" ［Ephesians 5:11-17］. These scriptures were presented to me as applicable to the situation at the institution at St. Helena, and much more has been opened before me, but I hope and pray that God will give them hearts of flesh and take away their hearts of stone, that they may be converted and saved unto eternal life.  {18MR 241.3}
[18MR 242.1]          God will not be trifled with. There needs to be a complete renovation in the Health Retreat, a working from Christlike principles; then the cloud resting upon that institution will be rolled back. Never, never will the Lord vindicate the work that has been going on for some time in the institution at St. Helena, where there is no distinction made between the precious and the vile. "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" ［Ephesians 4:29-32］.  {18MR 242.1}
[18MR 242.2]          We have the fullest faith in laboring for sinners to be converted, but we have not a particle of light from God to regard sinners as saints, and those who love God, our brethren, regard as sinners because sinners mistrust them and complain and murmur against them. "Be ye therefore followers of God as dear                                            -243-     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 savor. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks" ［Ephesians 5:1-4］.  {18MR 242.2}
[18MR 243.1]          Here is where there is something that is essential to be set right. If Jesus should stand in the gentlemen's bath-room, He would purge it from its uncleanness, and unholy conversation, and its low, cheap sentiments that proceed from unsanctified lips and impure hearts--"neither filthiness, nor foolish talking." Oh, what examples in words and deportment have been given unbelievers! Educating needs to be carried on through the departments of the various branches of the work, of an entirely different kind than has been given in times past.  {18MR 243.1}
[18MR 243.2]          Read the words found in Ephesians 5:5. Then read verses 6-10. "Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of the light: (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth); proving what is acceptable unto the Lord."  {18MR 243.2}
[18MR 243.3]         This work of close investigation has been strangely neglected, while there has been a seeking spot and stain, or catching up some little, supposed mistake, in those who were far nearer the kingdom of God than those that accused them. This mold that has been given to the institution must be changed. "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them."  {18MR 243.3}
[18MR 243.4]          Oh, there is need of the grace of Jesus Christ passing into the heart of every worker in the institution, from the highest to the least, if you meet the                                            -244-     condition of the heavenly Father's blessings. The question is asked by Dr. Burke, "What do you care for right or wrong?" A great deal, Dr. Burke. If I did not, I would have held my peace. I would not have given the exhortations and reproofs that I have given to bring sinners to repentance who think themselves just. Jesus loves these deceived souls, although they are blinded, deluded by Satan and his agents.  {18MR 243.4}
[18MR 244.1]          Jesus loves His children, even if they err. They belong to Jesus, and we are to treat them as the purchase of the blood of Jesus Christ. Any unreasonable course pursued toward them is written in the books as against Jesus Christ. He keeps His eye upon them, and when they do their best, calling upon God for His help, be assured the service will be accepted, although imperfect.  {18MR 244.1}
[18MR 244.2]          Jesus is perfect. Christ's righteousness is imputed unto them, and He will say, "Take away the filthy garments from him, and clothe him with change of raiment." Jesus makes up for our unavoidable deficiencies. Where Christians are faithful to each other, true and loyal to the Captain of the Lord's host, never betraying trusts into the enemy's hands, they will be transformed into Christ's character. Jesus will abide in their hearts by faith.  {18MR 244.2}
[18MR 244.3]          All this spirit of picking flaws in a person's words or deportment, setting one and another on their track to think evil and to communicate evil, is of Satan. Dr. Burke accuses me of having the spirit of the evil one. Dr. Burke, the Lord be judge between thee and me. I present this charge before the Lord. When Ahab met Elijah after he had been doing wicked actions, and when his apostasy affected all Israel, he said to the man whom God had given a message to the king, "Art thou he that troubleth Israel?" Elijah answered, "I have not troubled Israel; but thou, and thy father's house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of the Lord, and thou hast followed Balaam." God has given me my                                            -245-     work, and that message He gives me I shall bear whatever the consequences may be.  {18MR 244.3}
[18MR 245.1]          I expect to meet in the judgment the words spoken to Sister Gates. Whatever report she has made which inspired Dr. Burke to speak with pen, words to me as no man or woman has ever addressed to me by pen or voice, reveals the spirit that has been fast becoming a controlling power in the Health Retreat. Now, all the words I uttered I did because I could not endure the wrong practices which were perverting souls, as is evidenced in the spirit and the manner of working that Sister Gates has been engaged in. The rebuke of God is upon her and upon those who have inspired her to engage in a work that God has never set her to do--to judge and accuse and condemn, while the one in error was left unwarned, uncorrected. This is the manner of Satan's working, but the rebuke of God is upon all who participate in this kind of work from the greatest to the least.  {18MR 245.1}
[18MR 245.2]          The precious children of God, whom Satan and his angels are seeking to destroy, are to be strengthened and encouraged, and not to be torn in pieces. The best missionary work that can be done is to help and strengthen her sisters in the faith, all seeking to be faithful and true in a humble way, never stabbing in the dark, and neglecting the plainest duties marked out in the Word of God, to deal faithfully with those she thinks in error.  {18MR 245.2}
[18MR 245.3]          I have done only the work God has given me to do, the very work I have been doing for the last fifty years. What means this spirit of denunciation, because I have not shunned to declare the counsel of God? And I have other things to say at the right time. When God says speak, I shall do this. But I feel great pity for Dr. Burke, because he is departing from the living God, and for what? Oh, let him answer, For what? Dr. Burke, For what? A mess of pottage. Selling                                           -246-     your eternal interest for a cheap price. Will he yet see? I ask myself, Will he repent? Will he be converted? Will he renew his covenant at the cross of Calvary? "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Will he now cleanse the soul-temple of its moral defilement, and let the Spirit of God supply the vacuum?  {18MR 245.3}
[18MR 246.1]          He has so fully established the idol self in the heart and worshiped at its shrine, there has been no room for Jesus, no room for light, for love, for meekness, and lowliness of heart. Self is magnified into wonderful proportions. His only hope is to die to self, crucify self. If not, he loses that life which measures with the life of God. It is life or death that is set before Dr. Burke. "Choose you this day whom ye will serve"; "If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him." I would give my own life if such a gift would save his soul, but it would not. Though Noah, Daniel, and Job were in the land, as I live, saith the Lord God, "they shall deliver neither sons nor daughters; . . . they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness," which is the imputed righteousness of Christ.  {18MR 246.1}
[18MR 246.2]          The end is near. It is not long before the passions of the carnal, selfish heart will be revealed, and every secret thing brought to light. Oh, that angels of heaven would impress upon human hearts the peril of choosing to walk in the sparks of their own kindling, and refusing to walk in the way of the Lord! Now, Dr. Burke, in the judgment you cannot say you received not the warning the Lord has sent you. I have told you that unless you turn from every evil way, separate from sin and sinners, and no longer make them your confidence, and you come out from them and be separate, you will become darker and darker until you will not hesitate to do very many things you now think it impossible for you to do.                                           -247-  {18MR 246.2}
[18MR 247.1]          The Lord is still gracious; the Lord will still pardon, but your character must be transformed. There must be no guile found in the mouth of those who stand on the sea of glass. All this exaggeration, all misstatements, everything untrue, must be put away from you, and you stand forth out of every secret work, open as the day, and you living as seeing Him who is invisible. This is the last appeal I expect to make to you. I still have a letter packed away by mistake, ［which］ I shall send you if the Lord bids me; then our communication ends, if you remain of the same mind.  {18MR 247.1}
[18MR 247.2]         ［Note in margin］: Will you please read and return to me, as I have not another copy. Reserve a copy if please, but return this and oblige. E.G.W.-- Letter 17a, 1891.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D.C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 247.2}
[18MR 248.1]       MR No. 1339 - All Gifts of the Spirit to be Utilized; Christians not to be Controlled by Feelings; Look to Jesus as Example                      (Written in 1851 to "Dear Brother Pierce.")          Duty compels me to write a few lines. In vision the Lord has shown me some things of late which I feel duty to write you. I saw that all was not right with you, that you are in a place where your influence can tell but little; you are in too narrow a compass. I saw that Brethren Pierce and Phillips can be of use in the cause of God. Both their gifts are needed where they have not yet been, where their gifts are new and can affect more. The King's business is important, and requires haste. Jesus is coming, and there is no time to dally. With energy and zeal souls must be pulled out of the fire.  {18MR 248.1}
[18MR 248.2]          The past was opened before me. I was shown that there was a lingering of that spirit that Bennet and Libby had that has not been sufficiently shaken off by Bro. and Sr. Phillips, and as long as this spirit, the last of it, is not shaken off, it tells, and it has its influence. It is foreign to the Spirit of God.  {18MR 248.2}
[18MR 248.3]         I saw that the spirit that both Bennet and Libby possessed while Brother and Sister Phillips were in union with them, was an unclean spirit and an unholy spirit, and Brother and Sister O have not as yet realized and admitted and shaken it off. The spirit moved strongly on the feelings, and these feelings--many of them--are yet cherished as sacred, as ［indited by］ the Holy Ghost.                                           -249-  {18MR 248.3}
[18MR 249.1]          But many times when it was upon Brother and Sister Phillips, they knew not what the spirit they were of. At the time these men were professing so much of the Holy Ghost, especially Bennet, his life was corrupt, his heart vile. I was shown that a great many have been entirely thrown off their balance by not understanding the spirit that some of these ［seemingly］ very good and professedly holy men possessed; that they have felt the influence of and received great blessings through the influence of their prayers and apparent faith. It has stumbled many an honest soul, and here they have run aground and made shipwreck of faith. They trusted to feeling, to an influence or power that was brought to bear upon their feelings.  {18MR 249.1}
[18MR 249.2]          I saw that many, very many, had been truly converted through the influence of persons who were living in open violation of the commandments of God, their lives vile and corrupt. Others, I saw, were very sick. A case was held up before me of one of my relatives, a Methodist minister. Eighty miles he was sent for to pray for a sick sister in compliance with the teaching of James who sent for him. He went and prayed in earnest, and she prayed. She believed the minister to be a man of God, a man of faith. Physicians had given her up to die of consumption. She was healed immediately. She arose and prepared supper, a thing she had not done for ten years. Now, the minister was vile, his life was corrupt, and yet here was a great work. He took the glory all to himself.  {18MR 249.2}
[18MR 249.3]          Then again the scene mentioned above passed before me. I saw ［that］ the woman was a true disciple of Christ; her faith was that she should be healed. I saw their prayers: One was misty, dark fell downward; the other prayer was mixed with light or specks which looked to me like diamonds, and arose upward to Jesus and He sent it up to His Father like sweet incense, and a beam of light                                           -250-     was immediately sent to the afflicted one and she revived and strengthened under the influence.  {18MR 249.3}
[18MR 250.1]          Said the angel, God will gather every particle of true, sincere faith; like diamonds shall they be gathered up and will surely bring a return or answer; and God will separate the precious from the vile. Although He bears long with the hypocrite and sinner, yet he will be searched out. Though he may flourish with the honest a while like the green bay tree, yet the time will come when his folly will be made manifest, and he be brought to confusion.  {18MR 250.1}
[18MR 250.2]          Said the angel, Shall He leave the poor, suffering saints, who are deceived, destitute entirely of His Spirit? Oh no! I saw He would win and woo them, that if they clave to Him and if they would listen to His voice, He would say to them, "This is the way; walk ye in it."  {18MR 250.2}
[18MR 250.3]          But I saw there is great danger always of those who are brought so close, so near, this unclean spirit as you have been, Brother and Sister Phillips. I saw that God would separate the precious from the vile. There would be truth or something from God to call for a decision, and the corrupt would have no disposition to receive that call for a decision, but are separated from the precious by the precious receiving this truth ［that］ by the others ［was］ neglected. Here is the separation made. God will work in mysterious ways to save the true, honest ones.  {18MR 250.3}
[18MR 250.4]          I saw the great danger of those who have been connected with this spirit setting down this or that as the power of God, and, knowing this to be His power, if they yield this or that they give up their whole Christian experience. I saw, Brother and Sister P, ［that］ this was your case, and the only safe course for you was to shake off entirely that spirit, ［get］ out from it entirely, call it a deception you were under, as it really was, and then feast upon the truth,                                           -251-     the present truth. I saw there is among you a spirit of linking up with a few, making everything of this one or that one who has any leading out to pray for the sick; and others who do not engaged in it as zealously as you, are of but little account or have but little influence.  {18MR 250.4}
[18MR 251.1]          Oh, I saw that this was not all of the requirements of Jesus, and those who pray for the sick are not all who have faith in Jesus. The faith of Jesus takes in the whole life and divine character of Christ. I saw that you are too exclusive; also Brother Pierce. You are leaning too much on Sister Phillips. Sister P has too much confidence in herself, and you have too much confidence in her judgment, in her feelings. God is willing to teach Brother Pierce his duty that he may know it for himself. You all go too much by feeling.  {18MR 251.1}
[18MR 251.2]          I saw Brother Pierce would often try to talk the truth; if he did not have that liberty and success, that freedom he anticipated, he settled down, ［thinking］ that God did not call him to that work. Now, if it had not been for this, Brother Pierce might have been more useful than he has been. All, every one of God's called and chosen servants, have had just such times, and if they had followed their feelings, would have given up, ［thinking］ that that was not the work God had given them to do. But the servants of God will always have obstacles to surmount. But do not yield up readily; keep trying, and plow your way through the darkness. Look away to Jesus; depend on Him entirely.  {18MR 251.2}
[18MR 251.3]          You follow feelings too much, and if you feel clouds come over you, you let it influence you too much. Feeling is as unsafe a guide as you can follow. You make altogether too much of a happy flight of feeling or a shouting time. These times will come, but they are not always an undoubted evidence that we are right. You have made too much of these seasons, and in some of them there has been a fanatical spirit not in accordance with the spirit of truth. I saw that                                          -252-     there was a more useful place for your gifts to be occupied where they can move and stir souls.  {18MR 251.3}
[18MR 252.1]          Now is the time for God's people not to be in a corner, not where they have been over and over, but where their gifts are new. Brother Phillips' gift of exhortation is needed. God calls for it. He calls Brother and Sister P to shake themselves from the last and least particle of that spirit that is mentioned above, for it is against the Spirit of God. God is about to work for His people; a great work is being done. I saw that this call to the Laodicean church will affect souls. A becoming zeal is called for by God on our part. We must repent, throw away our whole feelings, feel our destitution, buy gold that we may be rich, eye salve that we may see, white raiment that we may be clothed.  {18MR 252.1}
[18MR 252.2]          Sister P, I saw that you had a too high opinion of your own judgment, too much exalted. Brother Pierce has listened and looked up to you as though your judgment was unerring. Just so long as you are all so closely shut in with yourselves, your usefulness is comparatively nothing. Your linking together is too close for your own good. Said the angel, Each one strike out on your own individual responsibility as to each other, yet relying wholly upon God for victory. Look away from each other; measure not yourselves by yourselves. Jesus is the Pattern; look to Him as the Example, not to each other. Lean wholly upon God.  {18MR 252.2}
[18MR 252.3]          Brother Pierce, you have been silent too much; too much shut up with yourself. In the paper you could speak to hundreds, but you have a few of you contented yourselves together. Your talent, Brother P, has been almost buried up; it must be brought into use. But you have so little confidence in your own success that if you do not have that freedom that you expect, you sink down and give it up. Arouse, arouse, let not feelings guide you; but a sense of your                                           -253-     duty, a sense of the truth, the important truth, let that influence you and move. Brother Pierce, your gift is needed. Brother Phillips, your gift is needed in exhortation.  {18MR 252.3}
[18MR 253.1]          I saw there had been considerable feeling with you and others in Vermont about the brethren coming West. You have not felt right about the matter. I saw that the greater work would be West. Many fields have not yet been visited that should be. It is true that many of those that have moved have not answered the design of God. God directed them to go, but not to do as they have done. After they were West, they should have lived out their faith; but they have acted like drunken men. But God is working for them. They see their sin and error, and are laying their possessions upon the altar, and preparing to labor for God.--Letter 2, 1851.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 253.1}
[18MR 254.1]       MR No. 1340 - Living The Christ-Life Amid Corrupt Surroundings          (Written February 10, 1887, from Basel, Switzerland, to Henri Frey.)          I am burdened in regard to your case. I view you as in a perilous condition. You have not as yet seen your true standing before God. You are not closely connected with God. My text this morning was for yourself and a few others who are in the same condition spiritually as you are. You cannot do justice to the work in which you are engaged because you do not bring the wisdom of God into your labor.  {18MR 254.1}
[18MR 254.2]          Your hands are not clean; your heart is defiled; your practices are not right. You need a thorough conversion, and your moral taste needs to be entirely renovated. You need to cultivate the idea that you are handling sacred things, because you are connected with the work of God. Your heart will not be made better while the light of truth is shining all about you and you keep its pure principles out of your life and apart from your character.  {18MR 254.2}
[18MR 254.3]          Unless you feel the need of a thorough transformation, you will erelong be separated from the work of God; you will not, you cannot, do justice to the work of God. There will have to be a decided change in the moral atmosphere that surrounds your soul. You are not being sanctified through the truth; your thoughts are not elevated, ennobled, refined. You seek a low level, low and common; your influence is not good. Your associations are of that character to tarnish the moral atmosphere. Evil angels are around you, pressing their darkness upon you. You are not helping those with whom you associate to a pure, elevated, holy life, but you are becoming more like them in character. You                                           -255-     profess to believe the truth, but are you practicing the truth? Are you becoming better acquainted with the reasons of our faith?  {18MR 254.3}
[18MR 255.1]          I have a deep interest for your soul, but I dare not withhold the truth from you. You might have been much farther advanced than you are now in genuine religious experience. Angels of God are looking upon the most secret actions of your life. I tell you in the fear of God, you are not a Christian. To be a Christian is to be Christlike. You are not practicing truth. You are not open; you are not frank. You are not exerting a correct influence. You are not pure in thought or in actions.  {18MR 255.1}
[18MR 255.2]          "How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him" (1 Kings 18:21). Religious principles in you are weak; you need to be a thoroughly converted man. But your low principles are constantly dragging you down to a low standard. You need now to turn square about. Take time to consider. You are to decide for yourself. Will you follow bad examples or good? Ask yourself, Am I working in such a manner that my character building will stand storm and tempest? Is Christ Jesus my foundation? Is my soul hid with Christ in God?  {18MR 255.2}
[18MR 255.3]          You need to act now to break the power of Satan that holds you before you can place your feet in the footprints of Jesus, to be self-denying, pure, and uncorrupted even with bad examples on all sides. While the worldlings would be glad to see you adopting their habits and their ways, you have not moral courage enough to say, I am a Christian, trying to be a child of God.  {18MR 255.3}
[18MR 255.4]          Oh, that I could impress upon you, as well as upon every young man, to take heed what kind of timber you put into your character building. It is essential that you thoroughly comprehend the importance of starting in your lifework with correct principles and a proper theory of life. Let young men burst from the                                         -256-     bondage of all unmanly, selfish indulgences and unscholarly habits, and like a brave, high-toned spirit resolve to stand in their God-given manhood as masters of themselves. Let them constantly ascend to meet a higher level. Let their eyes be single to God's glory, and let them closely examine every habit, every practice, in the light of God's Word, scorning to be deceived by the devil. Let them bring every motive and every habit and phase of their character to God's holy standard of righteousness, for they will all be brought into judgment.  {18MR 255.4}
[18MR 256.1]          Let your heart be examined. Do justice to yourself. What are you doing with the light and privileges that God has given you? Are the youth degrading the dignity of the mind as well as of the body? With eternity in view, with God before your eyes, will you let Satan take possession of your thoughts and your affections? I call upon you, my brother, to have regard for your own well-being for time and for eternity. You must choose for yourself. It is life or death with you. Just as long as you are intemperate you will be unable to appreciate eternal things. The principle you adopt becomes a living, molding influence; it will enter and will dwell in the depths of your nature.  {18MR 256.1}
[18MR 256.2]          You are determining what kind of food your soul shall have, what shall be the complexion of your future life and character. Let not one taint of deception be cherished by you. Do you consider, young man, in choosing your principles of action and subjecting your mind to influences, you are forming your character for eternity? You can hide nothing from God. You may practice evil habits in secret, but it is not hid from God and angels. They view these things, and you must meet them again.  {18MR 256.2}
[18MR 256.3]          God is not pleased with you; you are required to be far in advance of what you are now in spiritual knowledge. With all the privileges and opportunities that God has granted you, you do not have corresponding works. You owe a duty                                            -257-     to others, and a duty imperfectly understood will be imperfectly performed. There will be mistakes and errors that will not only be injurious to yourself but will help to fasten wrong practices upon others. You have habits of appetite that you indulge to the detriment of the health of the body as well as the soul. Your habits have been intemperate, after the habits and customs of the world, and your health has been injured by your indulgence of appetite. The brain has been beclouded, and you will never have clear, pure thoughts until your habits and practices are in accordance with the laws of God in nature.  {18MR 256.3}
[18MR 257.1]          Make it the law of your life to touch not, taste not, handle not, beer, fermented wine, tea, coffee, or tobacco. Having deliberately decided to be a man, free yourself from every lust which wars against the soul, adopt a right principle of action in all things, reverence and obey God. Make it the purpose of your life to be all that God designed you should be. Let no temptation be of sufficient attraction to you to swerve you from principle. Then God will be to you a present help. He will give you His wisdom as a lamp to your feet.  {18MR 257.1}
[18MR 257.2]          You know scarcely the first principles of true godliness, but you may know; you may arise from this grossness, from this earthliness, and repress all sensuality. Firmness and sanctified decisions are what you need to turn square about, to repent of your sins, to be converted and make it the law of your life to be true to yourself and true to your God. Then, while you work out your salvation with fear and trembling, it is God that worketh in you to will and to do of His own good pleasure. No halfway purpose will do. For you it must be a thorough decision. A conscientious surrender of your entire life to God is essential for you.  {18MR 257.2}
[18MR 257.3]          You have not been standing in such a relation to God that heavenly angels could be round about you. You need a power brought into your mind to elevate                                            -258-     it, for it has been allowed to be tarnished. The Bible alone presents a standard for human character and a perfect guide under all circumstances. The Christian soldier is to look to his Captain for orders, and to obey promptly. The intelligent mind is one of God's most precious gifts to man, and He demands of us the full improvement of it. Every person is under obligation to live so that he can look upon his own conduct and character with feelings of respect, and not with shame and mortification.  {18MR 257.3}
[18MR 258.1]          Has Christ been woven into your life experience? It is your privilege to be a partaker of the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world through lust. You have too often been listening to the temptations of Satan, and he has had such influence over you that the grace of Christ has not been a controlling power in your life. The apostle exhorts, "Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul." You must aim high. Let your language be, "I study, I work for eternity." You have no time to lose. Both the understanding and the heart need to constantly maintain the most intimate and conscious connection with the pure, sacred springs from which they will derive their light and inspiration.  {18MR 258.1}
[18MR 258.2]          You are living in hourly contact and conscious communion with the principles of truth and righteousness, and if there is not a corresponding rising in moral and intellectual power, if you do not cooperate with the divine influences, you will become hard and unimpressible. The light will become darkness to you. Your heart must be changed, its principles elevated, and your heart beat and your eye flash in response to the deep, holy principles which your own strenuous efforts may combine with the grace of God implanted in your nature. Your morals then will be sound, your principles firm. In this aim you may be ambitious, for you are drinking from the true source of wisdom and virtue.                                         -259-     Behold in the cross of Christ the only safe and sure path for you to reach true elevation in this life, and the great reward of eternal life.  {18MR 258.2}
[18MR 259.1]          You have infirmities which you ought not to have, if your habits were in accordance with the laws of life and health. You must stand on the foundation of temperance in all things. The taste is to be brought under the control of reason, the appetite subdued, and the passions controlled in order for you to secure a well-balanced mind to cooperate with all your efforts and purposes to secure the life which is to come.  {18MR 259.1}
[18MR 259.2]          You cannot with safety pursue the course you have done. There is conniving at sin, a covering up of sin. They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh, with the affections and lusts, and those seeking for heaven are endowed with whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are lovely and of good report. There is an unseen witness in your meetings and your association with those who are corrupted and corrupting. The Word of God forbids our attaching undue importance to our works, but it nowhere forbids self-respect. There is a conscious dignity of character which is not pride or self-esteem, but is the safeguard of youth. He is impressed that he has a reputation to sustain, a character to lose or to keep. In God's inspired book you will have a faultless instructor, an unerring counsellor, an unfailing guide.  {18MR 259.2}
[18MR 259.3]          Let the youth consider that they can serve God by a consistent Christian life in any place and amid any surroundings, if it is their duty to be in such a place. If God calls them in His providence, as He did Daniel, to positions of trust where temptations would be constantly assailing them, in the place of thinking it impossible to serve God they would know that the grace of God would brace them to meet and resist temptation in every form. They must not limit the                                         -260-     power of God. The great and all-wise God who has given ability and powers to man will give him work corresponding to his ability.  {18MR 259.3}
[18MR 260.1]          Imagine the temptations found in such a court as Babylon, and at a period of life when temptations have a peculiar power to tarnish and pollute morals. It was just such a situation as we would consider favorable for a man to lose his soul in. Certainly it would not be chosen by a man who wanted to save his soul. Daniel and his associates feared God. They determined not to yield their faith or their principles. They were young, and these four youth in God's own providence were placed in this perilous position that through them God's power might be revealed. These men were not God-fearing and God- loving because circumstances favored it; the godliness was within themselves, and they clung to it and held it fast. Circumstances were continually of that nature to subvert, to attract, to lead to self-indulgence, to crush out godliness. But it was not crushed. Genuine purity and God-fearing principles were interwoven with their life and character.  {18MR 260.1}
[18MR 260.2]          Many blame their circumstances, and plead an excuse for their condition that they are unfavorably situated, being thrown into the society of the irreligious and self-indulgent and intemperate. But do not let yourself be deceived. You can shape your surroundings, in the place of bending and being molded in character by circumstances. Godliness will stand the test, because it has a living root to sustain it, a well-spring from which it draws its nourishment.  {18MR 260.2}
[18MR 260.3]          The corruption of the human heart is that which leads it to love the society of the careless and unholy. The true secret of every true follower of Jesus, and his continued, unsullied integrity is that he loves truth, he loves righteousness. His moral taste is not depraved, and although surrounded by evil                                         -261-     the deep work of the truth wrought in his heart keeps the soul true and steadfast to God even in very bad circumstances. This is the fruit that grows on the Christian tree, the faith that realizes the presence and help of God at all times. There is a constant dread of incurring the displeasure of God, whom they reverence and whom they love. It was this principle that preserved Joseph amid temptation. You must cultivate real faith in God, in His gracious goodness, faith in His presence. You must pray as you have never prayed before.  {18MR 260.3}
[18MR 261.1]          Albert Dietschy is no help to you and you are no help to him, because you do not exercise the power of influence for good. Your influence is to strengthen the temptations of Satan, to lead each other away from truth, purity, and holiness. Angels blush over your words and your actions. You have become tempters to one another. You both need to greatly humble your souls at the foot of the cross, and learn meekness and lowliness of heart. It is genuine godliness woven into the character that will make young men a light in the world.  {18MR 261.1}
[18MR 261.2]          Albert Dietschy has no excuse for his course of irreligion, his proving a tempter to others. He has had instruction from his youth, and unless he is thoroughly converted from his ways he will become weaker and still weaker in moral power, and the Spirit of God will leave him to carry out his own self-will, to his own ruin.  {18MR 261.2}
[18MR 261.3]          Fearing God--how little of it there is! There are those connected with this establishment who may grow in grace and the knowledge of the truth and become fitted for a holy heaven. There are those who will be like the men who helped to build the ark. They hear the truth; they have every advantage to become men of moral worth; yet they will not choose the good society, but the corrupt. If there is an influence that is not heavenly, they will gather to their side and unite with them, and although they act a part in the preparation                                          -262-     of the truth which is to fit a people to stand in the day of the Lord, they will perish in the general ruin like Noah's carpenters who helped to build the ark. God help you that you may not be of that class.--Letter 36, 1887.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 261.3}
[18MR 263.1]      MR No. 1341 - The Dangers of Mind-Cure; Neither Husband nor Wife to Control the Mind of the Other; an Appeal for Conversion         (Written Oct. 6, 1901, from St. Helena, California, to Dr. Sanderson.)          I beseech you by the mercies of God that you take your position for the right without reference to the will or judgment of your wife. You have allowed her mind to be a controlling power in your life. Yet you do not see this or many other things you ought to see because you are not prepared to see them in the light of the Spirit of God. For years your wife has refused to submit herself to the influence of the Holy Spirit. She has never been transformed in character. She has a strong mind and a powerful influence over you which confuses your judgment, making you in some respects a weak man. While you allow her to lead you on, while you consent to merge your individuality in hers, anything I may say to you or write to you will be as idle tales.  {18MR 263.1}
[18MR 263.2]          I have some things to say to you which I shall say when I am at liberty to say them, when your mind is capable of understanding them. At the present time I know that you could not possibly comprehend them, for spiritual things are spiritually discerned.  {18MR 263.2}
[18MR 263.3]         No one could take the position you have taken in regard to the mind-cure science without becoming confused and dazed, unable to see things in a true light, for this science is Satan's masterpiece. At present you are strongly tempted; the enemy is guiding your imagination, and you do not understand your own mind. Unless you take your position as a man, unless you consent to be entirely subordinate to the will of God, this spell which the enemy has cast over you will leave its mark on mind and character, and especially on your                                           -264-     physical powers. I entreat you not to partake of the dish of fables which Satan is offering you. Cherish the practical godliness which leads you to sanctify the Lord God of hosts in your heart, and be ready always to give to everyone that asks, a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.  {18MR 263.3}
[18MR 264.1]          You stand in an undecided position, allowing your mind to be molded and guided by your own ideas and the unsanctified counsel of those who have separated themselves from God, who are not sanctified by the Holy Spirit. A spell is upon you. You are dazed. Of what use would be anything I could say to you until you see the truth of what I have already said?  {18MR 264.1}
[18MR 264.2]          The less conversation you have with your wife about the science of mind-cure, the better it will be for you both. The only hope for your wife's salvation is for you to refuse to let her influence you for the wrong. She has not the mind of Christ, and you should not allow her to lead or rule you. If she does this, both her soul and yours will be lost. Her religion has never been what it should be. Her life has not been what the life of a Christian should be. This has nearly been your ruin. Your only safety is in realizing that your identity cannot be submerged in hers. For years you have walked uncertainly. Will you not now take a correct position and maintain it firmly, in righteousness working out a character that God can approve? Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.  {18MR 264.2}
[18MR 264.3]          Had you and your wife humbled yourselves before the Lord as I hoped you would, the light would have shone into your minds. When you and she make that entire surrender that God requires you to make, you will both see things in an entirely different light. Consistency will then be seen in your lives.  {18MR 264.3}
[18MR 264.4]          While your wife is making up her mind what she will do, Satan has decided what he will do in order to carry out his purposes. He is seeking a door by                                           -265-     which he can enter your mind and take possession of it, to make of it a workshop for himself. If your wife repents and is converted, if in contrition of heart she asks for pardon for her estrangement from God, and as a little child bows in submission before Him, He will receive her and bless her. But repentance must come before conversion can take place. I tremble for her and for you. Unless she is converted, soul, body, and spirit, Satan will use her as his helping hand to mislead others.  {18MR 264.4}
[18MR 265.1]          If your wife were converted to God, she would be a great blessing in humbly denying herself. But her past experience is misleading. Unless she changes and determines to make a business of serving the Lord, she is not qualified to act as a medical missionary for the Lord in any place. She has not led the nurses away from selfishness and the attractions of the world. If she had any real knowledge of herself, she would know that she is a friend of the world. Her influence leads into false paths. Can we mingle in entertainments, amusements, parties and suppers with those who have no thought of God or heaven, without slighting God? Is not His Spirit grieved by the worldly, frivolous entertainments to which Christ cannot be invited, to which He would not go unless it were to seek and save the lost?  {18MR 265.1}
[18MR 265.2]          I have no accusing to do, but I shall make a determined effort for your soul. The whole matter has been laid out before you for your benefit, and it is your privilege to heed the warning, break Satan's snare, and take your position with your brethren, determined to serve on the Lord's side. In the past you have desired to stand as the chief one in the sanitarium. God has not appointed you to this place. You are wanting in the qualifications essential to success in bearing these responsibilities. You have been unwilling that another                                           -266-     experienced physician should stand by your side. But it would have been highly appropriate for you to have had someone with whom to consult and cooperate.  {18MR 265.2}
[18MR 266.1]          Before I returned to America I was given instruction regarding the condition of things in the sanitarium here. I need not that any man tell me. No human being has the faintest conception of the masterly efforts by satanic agencies to prevent the doing of the good that should have been done.  {18MR 266.1}
[18MR 266.2]          Jesus says, "My son, My daughter, give Me thine heart, that I may mold and fashion the character." This is all He asks. My dear Sister Sanderson, is it not time for you to be disgusted with yourself? Is it not time that you came to your best Friend, your Counselor? Will you any longer dare to run the fearful risk of losing your soul? The day of God is right upon us. What preparation are you making for it? Do you realize that you are building for time and for eternity? Will you allow the love of amusement and your stubborn self-will to divorce you from God? Will you become married to another instead of being the bride of Christ?  {18MR 266.2}
[18MR 266.3]         My sister, God pities and loves you. But He does not love your sinful course of action which is leading others astray. Eating and drinking is the order of the age in which we live. Thousands are sacrificing health and life to the indulgence of lustful appetites and sinful practices. Just as far as you associate with such persons, you give evidence that you are not walking in fellowship with Christ.  {18MR 266.3}
[18MR 266.4]          Dr. Sanderson has known what it means to have an abiding Christ. And had he received from you the help he should have received, you might both now be ascending the ladder which reaches to heaven. God is above the ladder, and His brightness would have guided you heavenward. Had your course been in harmony with the great truths of the gospel, your husband would not have been content                                           -267-     with his present spiritual condition. You have qualifications which, if refined, sanctified, and rightly employed, would do much in the Master's service. You might have been a channel for the communication of light for the saving of souls. You might have been a great help to your husband and to those around you. But you have chosen your own way. You have not followed on to know the Lord that you may know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. Your selfishness works against truth and righteousness. Your interest in gatherings for pleasure has been sufficient to eclipse the light of heaven and to separate your soul from God.  {18MR 266.4}
[18MR 267.1]          Had you followed the example of Jesus, you would have set a saving example before those with whom you have been associated. But God has been greatly dishonored by your course of action. The truth has not been exalted by your worldly representation of religion, and the Lord has given me His word to speak to you. He desires you to exemplify in your life the truths of the gospel. What you need is personal communion with God. The restlessness you feel cannot be cured by mechanical operations.  {18MR 267.1}
[18MR 267.2]          Should you connect with any sanitarium as you now are, you would dishonor God by your irreligious, worldly aspirations. Self is determined to rule in your life. Your only hope is to crucify self. When the heart is once given unreservedly to God, it will be softened and subdued. You are not your own, for you have been bought with a price. Will you not die to self and consecrate your life to Christ? This will mean a severe struggle, but God will be your helper as you seek to do His will.  {18MR 267.2}
[18MR 267.3]          When you and your husband left the sanitarium, it was because you were not willing to humble yourselves before God. In leaving the sanitarium you acted very unwisely. What influence will this have on the patients and nurses who as                                           -268-     yet know nothing of the matter? What interpretation will they place on your actions except that you thought yourself abused? But it is not true that you have been abused. God has been dealing with you, and you have been kicking against the pricks. It is not you who has been wronged, but the Lord Jesus. He has been dishonored by your course of action. Are you willing to meet your record in the judgment?  {18MR 267.3}
[18MR 268.1]          I have no evidence that it is best for either of you to place yourselves once more where the trial will come more severely than it has in the past, unless a thorough reformation takes place in you both. Your success has not accomplished what it might have accomplished if you had realized that you were connected with the sanitarium not to please and glorify yourselves, but to please and glorify God. Had you worked as Christians ought to work, with the fear and love of God ever before you, it would have been seen that God was working with you, and His name would have been glorified.  {18MR 268.1}
[18MR 268.2]          It is not best for you to use your gifts in teaching, in molding and fashioning the characters of children, because you have not the patience or longsuffering necessary to deal with children or youth, who are to be treated as the younger members of the Lord's family. Your temperament forbids your dealing with children. They are sometimes provoking, and there is cruelty in your manner of administering punishment. You show severity which grieves the Holy Spirit and greatly injures your own soul. But when you are converted, decidedly changed in character, there is a field of labor for you in sanitarium work. In this work you will forget yourself. If you will turn your attention from self to Christ, you can use your capabilities to good purpose. It is not too late for you to repent and be converted. Up then, and be doing! The Master calls for you to work the works of righteousness.                                           -269-  {18MR 268.2}
[18MR 269.1]          In the name of the Lord I ask you to awaken to your responsibilities and take up your work in the right way, with honest, earnest endeavor. Use your talents for good, and not for evil. Christ invites you, "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］. All the Lord asks is a faithful discharge of the duties revealed in His holy Word. From the lowliest to those occupying the highest positions, each one is required to fill his appointed place. The interest the Lord expects is proportionate to the capital entrusted.  {18MR 269.1}
[18MR 269.2]          Has not Christ a right to your service? What relation have you sustained to Him during the years of your life? You have supposed that you must be waited on, that every attention must be shown you, when, had you exercised yourself judiciously, nerve and muscle would have done excellent work. You have been bought with a price, and you are living in this world on trial, to be tried as gold is tried in the fire. God will strictly examine you to see what use you have made of His goods. What of your stewardship? Have you faithfully improved the opportunities which have come to you to win souls to Christ? Do you realize that you have not been a faithful steward of your Lord's goods?  {18MR 269.2}
[18MR 269.3]          Is the matter of gaining eternal life one to be trifled with? With His own life Christ paid the price of our redemption. He died to secure our love and willing obedience. All the blessings we enjoy come from Him. He calls upon us to remember that the humblest opportunity to serve Him is a consecrated gift. You need to become acquainted with your Bible. You will then see that age after age Jesus has been delivering His goods to men and women. Each generation has its special trust. Your future welfare depends on the use you make of your entrusted talents.                                           -270-  {18MR 269.3}
[18MR 270.1]          You can do for yourself that which no one else can do for you, if you will give yourself to Christ in loving service. If your husband should spend more of his time with you to please you, it would not remedy the evil of your thoughts and disposition. He is a physician and he must attend to his work. When you study the precious truths of the Bible, you will drink from the fountain of living water to which Jesus invited every thirsty soul with the same unchanging words of welcome, "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink." "The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely."  {18MR 270.1}
[18MR 270.2]          Will you listen to the voice of Christ? Will you break away from self and respond, "We come, Lord, we come. With joy shall we draw water out of the wells of salvation"? Then shall your life henceforth be a continual Feast of Tabernacles, a continual thank offering for unnumbered and unmerited blessings.  {18MR 270.2}
[18MR 270.3]          Of all the destructive errors which are entering religious bodies, none is so fatal a deception, none so sure to separate man from God, as the one with which you have ventured to experiment. You are not in the right way. I present to you the guide for Christian service--the pure, unadulterated Word of God. This is a treasure house of knowledge. Practical religion rests upon the principles found in this Word. Vague ideas and suppositions have no part nor lot in the matter. In the Word of God there is definiteness, clearness, and beautiful symmetry. Its proportions are harmonious.  {18MR 270.3}
[18MR 270.4]          God's way, not man's way, is to be taken as the guide of action. He has a plan, well and wisely ordered. He has revealed this plan to us in His Word, and He expects us to take it as our guide in all things, great and small. Man is not to make plans according to his finite judgment. He is to search for and                                         -271-     find God's plan. Walk in the way of the Lord. It is plainly defined. A disregard of God's way leads to fruitless efforts. Following unscriptural plans leads to false theories and a false piety.  {18MR 270.4}
[18MR 271.1]          It is God's design that His name shall be honored before the heavenly universe. The whole earth is to show forth His infinite glory. He is gathering from this earth a people for Himself. His will is the law of the universe. He calls upon every human being to cooperate with Him. But He forces no one. He has placed man's destiny in His own hands, telling him that his future welfare depends on his choice. To be saved, he must cooperate with God in His work of restoration.  {18MR 271.1}
[18MR 271.2]          The religion of self makes easy conversions. Scripture is perverted, God dethroned, and self deified. The operation of the Holy Spirit on hearts is denied. This is the new, broad way, substituted as an improvement on the strait gate and the narrow way. When self becomes thus prominent, God is lost sight of and the work cannot prosper. The Lord is misrepresented and misjudged. The importance of the truth is lost to view while human opinions rise to vast importance. Thus the experience is cheapened. Zeal for self takes the place of the higher aims which should mold the life. Egotism develops and strengthens. Religion is used as a means for carrying out selfish purposes. The solemn claims of God are treated as a farce, spoken of with levity and irreverence. A man with such an experience has lost his anchorage, and is drifting without guide or compass.  {18MR 271.2}
[18MR 271.3]          My sister, the Lord has sent me with a special message to you. In the past your aspirations have been marred by defects. Your efforts to please self have not in any sense honored the truth. You are a woman in years, but I tell you in the name of the Lord that in character you are as a stubborn child. You want to                                          -272-     follow your own ideas of what constitutes Christianity. By your influence on your husband you have nearly destroyed his sense of what he is and what he should be. You have almost ruined his spirituality. He is as a man lost in the woods, unable to find the way. He has lost his bearings, and how to lead him to safe paths seems to be a mystery.  {18MR 271.3}
[18MR 272.1]          I will not burden you with many more words, but I entreat you to make right decisions, for you are working for time and for eternity. Redeem the time because the days are evil. You know that what I tell you is true. Will you stand any longer in peril of losing eternal life?  {18MR 272.1}
[18MR 272.2]          You have erred. By your self-sufficiency you have lost time and wasted precious opportunities. If, when the message came to you, you had humbled yourself under the mighty hand of God, you would have found life and hope and power in His grace. The crisis in your life has come. Will you not fall on the Rock and be broken, to be rebuilt upon the divine plan?  {18MR 272.2}
[18MR 272.3]          Do not, because I tell you the truth, abandon yourselves to discouragement and despair. Satan may come to you with the cruel suggestion, "It is a hopeless case. You are irredeemable." But this is a lie which he has originated. There is hope for you in Christ. There is no need of your turning away from the Saviour, for He is making every effort to lead you to Him. There is no need of your remaining in the condition that you are now in. You can be free in Christ if you will refuse to allow the enemy to make you a stumbling block to others. God does not tell you that you must overcome your love of yourself and of the world in your own strength. He asks you to come close to His side. He will be your helper. Will you not lay hold of His power that your influence may be a blessing, not a curse?                                          -273-  {18MR 272.3}
[18MR 273.1]          Have I made you my enemy because I have told you the truth? I wish to be your sister, your friend, your helper. But encourage you in wrongdoing, I never shall. I must lay before you that which God has presented to me concerning you. Take heed to the instruction He has given. Doing this, you will find peace and comfort and hope, and a happiness you have never yet experienced. Which will you choose? God asks you to draw near to Him. As you do this, He will draw near to you.  {18MR 273.1}
[18MR 273.2]          You may wish me to let you alone, to cease to labor for you. But this I cannot do. I must entreat you to heed the voice of the Lord. I want you to see that it is best for you to be an overcomer. I want you and your husband to stand with the redeemed on Mount Zion. My heart yearns after you. I cannot consent to give you up. Though you are now content to be without God and His grace, it may be that you will not delay to become wise unto eternal life.  {18MR 273.2}
[18MR 273.3]          All the influence you are capable of exerting is now required on the Lord's side. It has been exerted long enough on Satan's side. God asks you to live no longer for self. You may wish to consult your own inclinations, but do not, I beg of you, do this work now. God is calling for your service. Today, if you will hear His voice, harden not your heart. Now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation. Do not say to the Spirit, "Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for Thee." Give yourself to the Lord while mercy's sweet voice still invites you. God bless you, is my most earnest prayer.--Letter 133, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 273.3}
[18MR 274.1]       MR No. 1342 - Comments on EGW Staff, Also on O. A. Olsen; Counsel to Study Daniel and Revelation         (Written Jan. 16, 1896, from Avondale, Cooranbong, N.S.W., to "Dear Children.")  {18MR 274.1}
[18MR 274.2]          I had written you a letter for you to seek the Lord most earnestly to know your duty in regard to connecting with me in my work in bookmaking. I cannot have help from Willie. That is not to be expected, now nor ［at］ any future time. You could help me, and we could counsel together. But I have little courage to attempt to do anything while I have only Marian to help me. Fannie will never handle anything of the writings I have to bring before the people. I regard her as a traitor of sacred trusts. If the Lord indicates my duty, I shall go forward.  {18MR 274.2}
[18MR 274.3]         I have no light to go to America. I have expected that Elder Olsen would feel the necessity of W.C.W. to help him, and might signify the same in a positive manner, to come to his help; but if he does not signify this, the time has not come. O. A. Olsen has linked himself and the cause up so fully with A. R. Henry and ［Harmon］ Lindsay, while at the same time he knows these men have not evidenced they have a connection with God, that he has made them think by his thus doing that he does not receive the warnings and the reproof God has given of their course. If Brother Olsen believed the light and truth God has given of these men, would they be kept in responsible positions year after year? I scarcely know what to think of these things. I know not what to make of these things. But there are perilous times before us.                                          -275-  {18MR 274.3}
[18MR 275.1]          I am very anxious to get out Testimony No. 24 now. I have secured Eliza's help. I will undertake that work which ought to have been done years ago. I have things that should come to the people. Time is short. The end of all things is at hand. We are to give more diligent searching to Revelation. Here is a book opened for those who shall live in these last days of time. Daniel and Revelation are the books applicable to us, and should be carefully studied, with much prayer. Read the first three verses: ［Revelation 1:1-3, quoted］.  {18MR 275.1}
[18MR 275.2]          There is not that attention given to Revelation ［that］ there should be. Much more should be said in regard to the coming of our Lord. There should be most earnest attention given to the Word.  {18MR 275.2}
[18MR 275.3]          I have no persuasion, no urging. Let the Lord make the matter plain before your mind. You are in the service of God. Wherever you can serve Him best, I will be reconciled, but I set the matter before you and leave the decision to yourself. May the Lord abundantly bless you and commune with you and teach and guide you, is the prayer of your mother.--Letter 139, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 275.3}
[18MR 276.1]       MR No. 1343 - Christians to be Sanctified, and Serve as Lights in a Dark World         (Written March 23, 1899, from "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W., to Mr. and Mrs. Peter Wessels.)  {18MR 276.1}
[18MR 276.2]          I have only a little time to write to you. I have been writing hours before daylight. I may not be able to get this copied, but I want to say, We thank you that you assisted us in our time of necessity. We did need help so much, and we thank the members of your mother's family that they sent relief in our time of need, so that we were enabled to build our meetinghouse without a debt upon it. Thank the Lord, O my soul, and praise Him for all His benefits!  {18MR 276.2}
[18MR 276.3]         I think of you all because peculiar temptations come to every soul upon the weakest point in their character. That weak point needs to be strengthened and conformed in righteousness. Following Jesus Christ means that you are doing the very same works of righteousness which Christ would do were He in your place. Following always implies obedience. No soldier can follow his commander unless he obeys orders. Following means imitation. In every case of action you are to do just as Christ would do in your place. "Learn of Me," says the great Teacher. Then keep your eye on the copy. Christ is our model. We are to do all things to His name's glory, and in the love that Christ has for us individually.  {18MR 276.3}
[18MR 276.4]          Christ came to our world to teach every man for whom he died how to practice His virtues in his daily life. "I," said Christ, "sanctify Myself that they also may be sanctified through the truth." Christ was exalted above His associates because He loved righteousness and hated iniquity. The Lord Jesus in His life was without sin, doing that which was just and right in all                                          -277-     things. We are to do as He did. Iniquity signifies whatever is crooked, whatever is twisted out of the right line. Oh, how important that we love sound principles, sound doctrine!  {18MR 276.4}
[18MR 277.1]          The eye of God is in every place. He knows all our temptations, and He expects us to resist them as He resisted the devil. We must have sound principles, pure, elevated, ennobling; these we can take with us into the eternal world. As a divine Saviour, Jesus died for us that we might live His life of purity, truth, and righteousness. He teaches us how to live. Our prayer should be, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."  {18MR 277.1}
[18MR 277.2]          Out of the heart are the issues of life. The inward fountain of life must be cleansed, purified. The will must yield its helm to the command of Christ. Paul, the great apostle, describes this as putting "on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness" ［Ephesians 4:24］. The evidence we bear of this new creation in Christ Jesus is to love righteousness and to hate iniquity.  {18MR 277.2}
[18MR 277.3]         My brother, may the Lord God sanctify you wholly, body, soul, and spirit, because you are a diligent student in the school of Christ. As you educate yourself, you are prepared to educate others. True religion is simply to follow Christ. A religion expressing selfishness is worthless; for the sinful heart is the real citadel. Until the heart is surrendered unconditionally, the blessing of God cannot flow into the soul; the sunshine of His righteousness does not illuminate the chambers of the mind or the soul temple, and a new life does not begin.  {18MR 277.3}
[18MR 277.4]          No compromise with sin can ever be accepted by a pure and holy God. No conversion is genuine which does not radically change the heart, the character,                                          -278-     and every line of conduct. "If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature." The gift of the Lord Jesus is a new character, a new creature in Christ Jesus. Not a moment should be wasted on a patchwork religion. We must shine as lights in the world. May the Lord bless you and your family, that you may reveal Christ in a life of faith, purity, true godliness and holiness. Thus it must be with every soul who is a citizen of heaven. Our citizenship is above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. This present life is only our training school; it is to purify us, that we may be without spot, wrinkle, or any such thing--meet for the inheritance of the saints in light.  {18MR 277.4}
[18MR 278.1]          We are individually to be true and loyal to higher laws. Our Redeemer, who paid His life as a ransom for us, has said, "If ye love Me, keep My commandments." The world around us sets its standard of customs and fashions to suit the inclination of unsanctified hearts; but they are not the rules for those who love Jesus Christ. Christ has chosen us out of the world, and has given us His own life to be our standard and our pattern. Everyone whom God loves will say, I must live in this world and yet not be of it. I must be as Christ has appointed. He says, "Ye are the light of the world. . . . Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Keep the windows of the soul open toward heaven, and let the pure, holy atmosphere of heaven flow into the chambers of your mind and into the soul-temple. Then the windows that open earthward will close of themselves.  {18MR 278.1}
[18MR 278.2]         The world will never be converted by conformity to its evil practices. But what an influence will be exerted upon the world by a people who live and speak and acts as sons and daughters of God, as citizens of heaven itself! We should be as salt with all its saving properties. Oh, what witnesses we would be for Christ! What a power would be our example to the world. We could lift up our                                          -279-     voice like a trumpet, and show "My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins."  {18MR 278.2}
[18MR 279.1]          As souls born again, as our high and exalted birthright, we are never to venture to stoop to anything low, cheap, or questionable, never to be found in suspicious places, never to let our good be evil spoken of. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so much higher, purer, nobler, should be a Christian's ways above those of the sinner. Never need he apologize to the world because he dares to do righteousness.  {18MR 279.1}
[18MR 279.2]          Christ describes His people as a city set on a hill; they cannot be hid. His eyes were directed to the city of Saphat set upon a hill. The city was in full sight, and could be seen from a great distance catching the beams of the morning sun and flashing back its evening glories from its bright battlements.  {18MR 279.2}
[18MR 279.3]          The Bible Christian is a man of principle, sober, watchful, prayerful, a man full of faith and good works. He is not seeking the prominence of the hill, but is firm, established, strengthened, settled. It requires a sound conscience to do the works of Christ. It requires consistent and holy living. By much prayer, watching unto prayer, self-denial, the true Christian lifts the cross of Christ and follows in His footsteps. He walks with God, not with Satan. A Christian is the world's light, and the only Bible that many in Africa can read.  {18MR 279.3}
[18MR 279.4]          God help you, my brother, to be a true Christian, consistent today, consistent tomorrow, always solid in speech, with no frivolity, no lifeless or trifling words. He is reaching up unto Christ, and does not fall into spiritual declension. "Walk as wise men, not as fools." My brother, seek to be a well built Christian, having a character symmetrical in all its parts. Be always inquiring. "Is my name written there, on the books bright and fair?"                                          -280-  {18MR 279.4}
[18MR 280.1]          God grant that you may have an abundant entrance into His kingdom, that Christ shall not be ashamed to own you, your wife, and your children. Be Christ's representatives, pure, holy, undefiled, sanctified to God in body, soul, and spirit. The Lord bless you and keep you sound, clean, pure in mind and practice. Then will rest upon you the heavenly benediction, "Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."--Letter 51, 1899.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 280.1}
[18MR 281.1]       MR No. 1344 - Work Earnestly for the Unsaved         When we engage with all our hearts in the work, we are closely allied to the angels; we are co-workers with the angels and with Christ, and there is sympathy with heaven and with us, a holy, elevated sympathy. We are brought a little closer to heaven, a little closer to the angelic hosts, a little closer to Jesus.  {18MR 281.1}
[18MR 281.2]          Then let us engage in this work with all our energies. Do not become weary in the work. God will help us. Angels will help us; because it is their work, and the very work they are seeking to inspire us with. If we can engage in it, can you not see that the angelic host will be all around us, and the excellent glory will drop upon us just as naturally as the dew falls upon the grass?  {18MR 281.2}
[18MR 281.3]          Do not be influenced by what others may say about you. I have had persons come to me, wanting to tell me what this one or that one for whom I was laboring had been saying about me. Said I: "Away with these reports. What has that to do with their salvation? My work is to bring them back to the fold."  {18MR 281.3}
[18MR 281.4]          This is a work you must take hold of earnestly; and when you find a wandering sheep, call him to the fold; and leave him not until you see him safely enfolded there. May heaven let the Spirit that was in our divine Lord rest upon us. This is what we want. He tells us, "Love one another, as I have loved you."  {18MR 281.4}
[18MR 281.5]          Go out for the lost sheep of the house of Israel. If there is any point on which you have committed one wrong, although they may have committed one hundred, take that which you have done out of the way, and open the way for them                                         -282-     to come back again. Perhaps that was the very thing that was keeping a soul away. In your humility confess your one wrong, and perhaps it may touch him and lead him with weeping to confess his hundred wrongs, and to take them out of the way. Thus a soul for whom Christ died will be saved.  {18MR 281.5}
[18MR 282.1]          Our Lord was rich and exalted in heaven, but He left the glory that He had with the Father before the world was, and came down to this earth to become a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief, to be mocked at by the very ones He came to save, and at last to give His life for them.  {18MR 282.1}
[18MR 282.2]          In your experience perhaps you may say, "I have tried to save this one and that one, and they have only wounded me, and I am not going to try to help them any more." But do not become discouraged if they do not at once return to the fold. Reach out still for your fellow mortals around you. You shall reap if you faint not. Remember that the reaping time is coming, and you will have an abundant and precious harvest. But if you faint before the harvest time shall come, you will lose all the reward.  {18MR 282.2}
[18MR 282.3]          I want you to remember Jesus, the suffering Son of God. He came to die for the fallen race; and how did they receive Him? They met Him with scorn and indignity, and at last hung Him upon the cross. Such was their treatment of Him who came to save them and to exalt them to the throne of God.  {18MR 282.3}
[18MR 282.4]          Ought you then to become weary? Should you faint, who are partakers of the heavenly benefit? Or will you say, "Let me drink of the cup; let me be baptized with the baptism; let me be a co-worker with God and the heavenly angels, and act some part in the salvation of mortals around me"? Let this be your work.  {18MR 282.4}
[18MR 282.5]          There is a great work before us. There are men and women straying from the fold of Christ, and as they become cold and indifferent, and lose all disposition to return, they will not run after you. You must take them where they are.                                          -283-     You must place the straying one on your shoulder and carry him back to the fold, and there let him remain.  {18MR 282.5}
[18MR 283.1]          Some years ago I had a dream. I dreamed we were out upon the water. There were several in the boat besides myself, and there were other boats about us. The other boats were watching to see what course our boat would take. We had, every one of us, oars, and were rowing with all our might. While we were thus urging our boat along, I saw two or three of the other boats capsize, and the persons thrown from them began to sink. They had no power to save themselves or to get hold of the boat again.  {18MR 283.1}
[18MR 283.2]          I said, "Let us put about the boat and pick up these souls." The answer was, "Let them come to the boat; they can see the boat; let them come to us." I looked and saw them sinking and rising and struggling for life. I said, "We must put the boat about and pick them up." The answer again was, "Let them come to the boat, and then we will pull them in." After waiting a few minutes more, I said, "Give me the oars," and I began to row with all my might. Said I: "Help me; we must go to those individuals and save them where they are."  {18MR 283.2}
[18MR 283.3]          With that, the others took hold of the oars again and rowed with me to get to these individuals. "Now," said I, "take hold of me." Then I would reach down, even to the bottom, it seemed to me, exerting all my strength, and would pull one out of the water. Others followed the example. This we did repeatedly, taking them to the shore and leaving them there for others to work over, as some of them were nearly lifeless. Said I: "Work over them; every one will live." Then we would cry out to those in the boats, "Reach down your arms to them, and bring them up."  {18MR 283.3}
[18MR 283.4]         I then went to examine those who had been brought to the shore, and as I turned them over to look at their faces I recognized the face of my brother, my                                        -284-     sister, and my near friends. I kneeled down, and such thanksgiving as I raised to heaven that God had given us strength to save them, I cannot express.  {18MR 283.4}
[18MR 284.1]          I do not know whether this means that these were my natural brothers and sisters; I think it means those connected to us by still closer ties in the church. Said Jesus, "Whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister, and mother."  {18MR 284.1}
[18MR 284.2]          I want to say, brethren and sisters, that we must labor for the wandering where they are. You need not expect those who have the chilling influence of the world upon them to manifest anxiety for their own souls. We must manifest it for them.  {18MR 284.2}
[18MR 284.3]          Do you appreciate salvation? Do you appreciate the great sacrifice that has been made for you? If you do, God help you to deny yourselves, and make this sacrifice for your fellow men. "Love one another, as I have loved you," said Christ. He left the glory and splendor which He enjoyed on high. None of these were sufficient to hold him there and prevent Him from coming down to elevate you. And now are you willing to engage in the work with all your energies, and help your fellow mortal around you? God give you a spirit of self-denial.  {18MR 284.3}
[18MR 284.4]          Love--how sweet it is! It is the bond of perfectness. What is the gold which the True Witness counsels us to buy of Him? It is faith and love combined. Faith leads us to act. And what is love? A tender care and solicitude for perishing souls. Faith and love go hand in hand. And, as a general thing, the church is almost entirely destitute of this love. And now shall we earnestly labor to win back this grace?  {18MR 284.4}
[18MR 284.5]          We have lost disinterested benevolence. As you enter into the houses of your brethren and sisters, do not be afraid to manifest your feeling of love and                                         -285-     sympathy. It is the little things of life that make up the sum of life's happiness or misery. It is the little things, if they are right, that are of the greatest service.--Ms 3, 1877 (formerly Undated Ms 141).     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Ms.  {18MR 284.5}
[18MR 286.1]       MR No. 1345 - A Dream About W. C. White and J. H. Kellogg            (Written Dec. 30, 1896, at "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W.)          On Wednesday night I had a dream. In my dream I was preparing to attend an important meeting where we were expecting to meet Dr. Kellogg and W. C. White. Willie came into the room unexpectedly, and I was surprised and glad to greet him. There was altogether a changed look on his countenance. He said, "Mother, I have it; I have found peace and rest and fullness in Jesus Christ. I know now, as never before, what it means to abide in Christ. My heart, my mind, my flesh, are all the Lord's. My will is to do the will of God. I feel a new and spiritual life, and all who have this spiritual life are 'alive unto God.' Christ is the very substance, the fountain of life, to every believing heart."  {18MR 286.1}
[18MR 286.2]         "I feel the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shining in my heart. I realize that I am in the presence of God, under the protection of One who never slumbers nor sleeps. I know that in God I live, and that every step I take, every beat of my heart, every motion of my pulse, is the action of His power. As never before I am alive to a sense of His preserving care."  {18MR 286.2}
[18MR 286.3]          Then the door opened, and Dr. Kellogg came in, the very same light shining in his countenance. Willie linked his arm in that of the doctor's, and said, "The Lord has given us both an advanced and rich experience. We have been learning that we ourselves cannot help soul or body, try as hard as we may. But now we can say, 'I will therefore lay me down, and take quiet sleep; and I will awake, for the Lord sustaineth me.' Being alive to a sense of God's presence, we are alive to His favor. It is more precious to us than the praise or honor of the greatest men of the earth."                                           -287-  {18MR 286.3}
[18MR 287.1]         "The Lord has lifted upon us the light of His countenance. Now we will make known God as never before. Our conversation will be in heaven, and we will draw souls to His attractive loveliness. Our hope of success is in the truth we bring before the people, presenting it in every line in prophetic history, leading step by step to the close of time with the simple exhibitions of the wonders of the cross of Calvary. Truth is a continually increasing power. The love displayed by the Saviour on Calvary's cross vindicates the immutability of the law of God. There is seen the law magnified. And His grace, His peace, His pardon, and eternal life are for all who are obedient. That sacrifice on the cross purchased the crown of immortality for all who will look unto Christ and live."  {18MR 287.1}
[18MR 287.2]          I have two more pages but I cannot stop to find them. I will send them if I can. But let me tell you, the power of God was upon you both, and expressed in your countenances. You kept saying, "We are one in Christ Jesus."--Ms 42, 1896.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Ms.  {18MR 287.2}
[18MR 288.1]       MR No. 1346 - Counsel to Physicians and Medical Students     The Necessity of Delegating Responsibility and Training Assistants            The truth, God's truth, must be cherished in the heart, and held in the strength of God, or the powers of Satan will wrench it from you. You need to be self-reliant and yet teachable, then you can have strength to be faithful to duty. To trust to your own resources, your own wisdom or strength, is folly. You will be brought to confusion if you do this. You can walk securely only when you follow the counsel of God.  {18MR 288.1}
[18MR 288.2]          Dr. Kellogg has felt afraid to trust responsibility with some of the physicians, because he saw in them inefficiency in some respects. They were not thorough and care-taking. Men of reasoning powers are greatly to blame if they continually make mistakes. These involve serious consequences. While Dr. Kellogg carries the greatest, heaviest responsibilities, he should have men by his side who will do as he instructs them. He should not do so much himself; for he is only a mortal man, and his powers have been taxed to the utmost limit again and again. He should lay upon others responsibilities which they should carry.  {18MR 288.2}
[18MR 288.3]          There are some who are ready to undertake the most difficult work, and feel competent to do it justice, who have not shown tact and wise discrimination in the simplest duties devolving upon them. This makes Dr. Kellogg afraid to trust them. They are ready to grasp the highest round of the ladder without beginning at the lowest round and climbing as he has done. Dr. Kellogg has gained his scientific knowledge by agonizing effort, and he has devoted many hours to                                              -289-     devising, planning, and making improvements, while others have been sleeping. He has taxed every power in obtaining an experience, while many would have carried out plans to enjoy themselves.  {18MR 288.3}
[18MR 289.1]          He should not have sacrificed health and strength in order to meet the pressing demands. While these improvements have been going forward, talent has not been brought in to correspond with the enlarging of the institution to accommodate larger numbers. While the students should be willing to learn of Dr. Kellogg as children, he should feel the affection of a father for the students. He should not become discouraged because they are so slow to learn, and should not discourage them if they make mistakes. We are all mortal and liable to err. He should kindly point out their errors, and they should feel grateful for any instruction he can give them.  {18MR 289.1}
[18MR 289.2]          A haughty spirit should not be countenanced, but all should be willing to learn, and the doctor ［should be］ willing to teach and educate, so that, should he be called away to recruit his health, or should disease lay him low, there would be those who could work intelligently, and the sanitarium not become demoralized. It will be difficult for Dr. Kellogg to lay off even a portion of the burden he has so long carried, but health and life and the salvation of his soul require a change. He should now save himself before he is a complete wreck.  {18MR 289.2}
[18MR 289.3]          Similar advice was given to my husband, that he should let others bear the burdens, while he could aid them by his advice, counsel, and experience. But he saw that others made mistakes and were not far-seeing and judicious, that elements of character were wanting in them, which he possessed to a large degree; therefore he waited for somebody fully competent to take his place, and kept on and on in much the same way as he had done, until he finally dropped                                         -290-     into the grave, and those men upon whom he did not dare to leave the burdens had to take them, and that without his advice, his words of counsel, and his experience, to help them. His voice might have been heard today if he had heeded the words of warning given.  {18MR 289.3}
[18MR 290.1]          He was disgusted and distressed because there were so few who would be discerning and who would be burden-bearers, and thought that in order to save blunders he must do all that he could himself. In his clear foresight he could see what needed to be done, and his brethren were content to let him be brains for them, and execute for them while, instead of becoming more efficient, they were growing less and less self-reliant. The simple, common business matters were brought before him by those connected with him in the work, until he became so accustomed to it that he felt it must be so; and if he was not consulted about even minor matters, he felt that it was not just right.  {18MR 290.1}
[18MR 290.2]          Dr. Kellogg is acting over the same experience, and Brother Murphy, Brother Hall, and others suffer him to do this. They are in many respects machine men. They have powers of mind, but these are becoming weakened because they do not exercise their reasoning faculties, but prefer to use Dr. Kellogg's mind in simple matters. Brother Hall has his position but the doctor, as far as thinking and planning are concerned, has the work to do himself.  {18MR 290.2}
[18MR 290.3]          Dr. Kellogg should never have encouraged these men to depend upon him to be mind and brains for them. He has served tables too much. There should be a superintendent who possesses breadth of thought and independence of judgment, that will use the powers of his own brain and grow in capacity and judgment, becoming every year more and more capable of bearing responsibilities. It is a sin and a shame to call the mind of Dr. Kellogg to so many little matters, and he does these men a wrong in allowing it. He cannot grasp his arms around the                                       -291-     entire institution. He must train his helpers to be self-reliant, independent, wise generals, in place of acting as general over everything himself.  {18MR 290.3}
[18MR 291.1]          These men have important faculties given them of God, to be used and to be strengthened by use. Dr. Kellogg has larger responsibilities to take his time and engage his powers, and every ounce of burden should be lifted from him that can be. There ought to be, today, self-reliant men of enduring energy, thinking and planning and working at all the common matters without bringing one of them to the notice of the doctor.  {18MR 291.1}
[18MR 291.2]          I regret that these men have been so dependent upon Dr. Kellogg. I am sorry that, as a wise general, he has not trained them to be self-reliant, and has not refused to do their thinking and brain work, that they might have obtained an experience which today would be more valuable to them then gold. God does not demand of Dr. Kellogg such taxing service, even in the most important enterprises. He has been successful in his plans, because he would not be defeated. If the brethren connected with him had faced stubborn difficulties, and seen them give way before them because their courage would not be daunted nor their energy wearied, they might have thus obtained an experience that would be of value to them through all time and through eternity. There is no need that there should be so many helpless souls who will sink before difficulties.  {18MR 291.2}
[18MR 291.3]          Elder Andrews might have lived had he encouraged and trained others to share the burdens he loaded himself down with. He deprived others of an education they might have had, because he did so much himself and allowed them to rely upon his brain, in place of doing their own thinking. Every man can be a man, a whole man, by patient continuance in well-doing, by resolutely                                        -292-     overcoming cowardice and ignorance and inefficiency, with thoughtful energy and zeal.  {18MR 291.3}
[18MR 292.1]          There should be an entirely different order of things. Men should not be shadows of Dr. Kellogg, that, should the substance be removed, there would be nothing to make the shadow. They should never consent to be merely machines, run by another man's brain. God has given them ability to think and act. He would have men connected with the institution--strong, firm, whole-souled, well-balanced men--who are diligent in cultivating their own powers of thought, and who do not feel that they must have their minds trained to run in exactly the same channel that Dr. Kellogg's mind runs in, but to think independently and help him in planning. His plans are not always infallible; and a wise counselor might see failure where he would see only success.  {18MR 292.1}
[18MR 292.2]          A good, strong mind to propose and counsel would be the greatest blessing the doctor could have. No one man's mind and judgment are sufficient to be a controlling power in any of our institutions; therefore, councils need to be held. But there are those who, when they come into council, no sooner hear a proposition than they take it for granted it is infallible, and stand ready to say, "Yes," and vote for it without carefully weighing the matter, probing it, sifting it, testing it, and giving it the benefit of deliberate thought. Such persons are mere ciphers. You should be men of force of character and depth of thought, seeing the judicious enterprises and laying hold of them, but bringing all your plans to the divine Counselor.  {18MR 292.2}
[18MR 292.3]          In order for men to be depended upon, there must be growth of powers, the exercise of every faculty, even in little things; then power is acquired to engage in larger responsibilities. Individual responsibility and accountability are essential. Do not shrink from bearing your share of responsibilities                                        -293-     because there are risks to run and something to be ventured. Do not leave others to be brains for you. You must train your powers to put forth strength and vigor; then the entrusted talents will grow, as a steady, uniform, unyielding energy is exercised in bearing individual responsibility. God would have man add, day by day, little by little, to his stock of ideas, acting as if the moments were jewels, to be carefully gathered and discreetly cherished. He will thus acquire breadth of thought and strength of intellect. . . .  {18MR 292.3}
[18MR 293.1]         Guarding Against Licentiousness. It is the spirit of the age to despise restraint, to desire to follow inclination, to jest and joke and be jolly in amusement with young ladies; and the result has been wrecks of character, encouragement to impurity, licentiousness, immorality, and marriages which have ruined the usefulness and efficiency of men and women who had ability and talents but who have been unable to rise to any noble heights after their unwise marriages. Thus the wheels of progress have been blocked, the powers of the mind dwarfed.  {18MR 293.1}
[18MR 293.2]          I utter my earnest warning and protest against the familiar association of young men and women who intend to connect with our sanitarium. If they want to be men of God, let them deny their inclination, and devote their God-given powers to doing good and being a blessing to society. Let them consecrate themselves unreservedly to God, to save perishing souls.  {18MR 293.2}
[18MR 293.3]          Dr. Sprague might have been an efficient and useful physician had he not wrecked his bark in a matrimonial alliance with one who could have no sympathy with his faith and could be no help to him in the Christian life. Dr. Fairfield might have proved a man of usefulness, a man of elevated, noble character, but he married a selfish, heartless, cold, icy-hearted woman. A                                         -294-     good, noble Christian woman might have helped him in character building; but Mrs. Fairfield was his evil angel to accomplish his ruin. She was one to tear down, and not to build up. She idolized herself, and had no wealth of affection for anyone but herself; and ruin is the result of this connection.  {18MR 293.3}
[18MR 294.1]          It is not a time when marriage should be regarded in the light of felicity. It is uncertain business. More misery than happiness is the result; and yet marrying and giving in marriage is as it was in the days of Noah. There seems to be no restraint; but passion and impulse have controlling power, and youth seem to be bewitched with love-sick sentimentalism. For this reason rules and regulations are highly essential to guard those connected with the Sanitarium, the college, and the office of publication; and anyone who regards these restrictions as unnecessary has not spiritual discernment, and will prove a hindrance rather than a help.  {18MR 294.1}
[18MR 294.2]          Many seem to think these precautions are not essential, and their deportment pleads for greater liberty than the law of God allows them. It is an imperative duty to preserve the soul from impure thoughts and unholy actions. Iniquity abounds, and our Saviour lifted His voice in warning, "As the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away."  {18MR 294.2}
[18MR 294.3]          Sensuality is the sin of the age. But the religion of Jesus Christ will hold the lines of control over every species of unlawful liberty; the moral powers will hold the lines of control over every thought, word, and action. Guile will not be found in the lips of the true Christian. Not an impure                                        -295-     thought will be indulged in, not a word spoken that is approaching to sensuality, not an action that has the least appearance of evil.  {18MR 294.3}
[18MR 295.1]          The senses will be guarded. The soul that has Jesus abiding in it will develop into true greatness. The intelligent soul who has respect unto all of God's commandments, through the grace of Christ will say to the passions of the heart as they point to God's great moral standard of righteousness, "Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed"; and the grace of Christ shall be as a wall of fire round about the soul.  {18MR 295.1}
[18MR 295.2]          There are those who will say, "Oh, you need not be so particular. A little harmless flirtation will do no injury." And the carnal heart urges on to temptation, and to the practical sanctioning of indulgences which end in sin. This is a low cast of morality, not meeting the high standard of the law of God.  {18MR 295.2}
[18MR 295.3]          The vileness of the human heart is not understood. There are always individuals connected with our institutions whose characters are cast in an inferior mold, and they need but a word of encouragement from those in higher positions to take liberty to gratify the unholy heart. There are those at the sanitarium that are not open sinners; they hide their sins from human eyes; they have a fair outward morality; but the Lord's eye sees them. They find means to gratify the low, sensual propensities; their lives are tarnished, and they are tarnishing others by their example.  {18MR 295.3}
[18MR 295.4]          These very ones carry a pretense of piety; they offer prayers, bear testimony in meetings, and are apparently serving the Lord; but their hearts are corrupt, their conduct is condemned by the law of Jehovah which they profess to keep. There are those who are not guilty of these gross transgressions, but who do not have spiritual discernment, and see not the necessity of putting up the                                         -296-     bars, and of guarding every point lest iniquity should be practiced in our institutions. They cannot see any harm in the young people's being in one another's society, paying attention to each other, flirting, courting, marrying, and giving marriage. This is the main engrossment of this time with the worldlings, and genuine Christians will not follow their example, but will come out from all these things and be separate.  {18MR 295.4}
[18MR 296.1]          In our sanitarium, our college, our offices of publication, and in every mission the strictest rules must be enforced. Nothing can so effectually demoralize these institutions and our missions, as the want of prudence and watchful reserve in the association of young men and young women. Give them freedom to go and come as they will in each other's company, and they will regard it as a restriction of their rights to be bound about with rules and regulations. Those who plead for the liberty to associate together are soon spoiled with lovesick sentimentalism; the enervating influence of this much-to-be-dreaded disease unfits them for their duties, and they cannot fill any position of trust. The ever-increasing potency of vicious indulgences is so great and so strong that there is little room to hope for the recovery of souls who are thus afflicted, unless they can see the matter as God sees it, and become so thoroughly disgusted, as well as agonized, over their course of action, that they will have that repentance that needeth not to be repented of.  {18MR 296.1}
[18MR 296.2]          Satan is making determined efforts to overcome those who advocate the commandments of God, that their principles shall become tarnished, and their lives corrupt. It is a pitiful sight to see young men who are bound by no marriage ties, pursuing a foolish course, exhibiting the disease of lovesick                                          -297-     sentimentalism. They are unbalanced in mind, and have lost their sense of proprietary of conduct so essential for a noble, virtuous character.  {18MR 296.2}
[18MR 297.1]          But that which is the most to be deplored is to see married men who have companions and children, fanning around the girls, and the girls making advances to them or encouraging their attentions. These attentions becloud the mind, benumb the senses, as to the line that distinguishes right from wrong. Impure thoughts, indiscreet actions, unholy conduct, and next the seventh commandment transgressed.  {18MR 297.1}
[18MR 297.2]          Indolence and gratification of unholy passions enslave the soul, and hold the victim in chains of steel. There are agonizing struggles after his lost moral freedom, but he seldom is again a free man; he has stepped on Satan's ground, and becomes the object of Satan's temptations. The standard must be the holy law of God, and every approach toward familiarity or attention of married men with young girls or with married women should be positively condemned.  {18MR 297.2}
[18MR 297.3]          The plea of these liberty-loving young men and married men is for a little amusement, a hungering of sympathy, a little self-indulgence. They do not think of such a thing as weakening moral character or their power to resist temptation, nor of becoming vicious and impure; but they are tempting the devil to tempt them. The only safe course is to keep free from all these things. 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                                         -298-     of familiarity, one indiscretion, may jeopardize the soul, in opening the door to temptation, and the power of resistance becomes weakened.  {18MR 297.3}
[18MR 298.1]          The Psalmist, when viewing the many snares and temptations to vice, inquires, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?" This question is appropriate for everyone connected with our missions and every instrumentality of God. At this stage of our work, the answer comes, "By taking heed thereto according to Thy word." It is necessary to maintain a living connection with Heaven, seeking as often as did Daniel--three times a day--for divine grace to resist appetite and passion. Wrestling with appetite and passion, unaided by divine power, will be unsuccessful; but make Christ your stronghold, and the language of your soul will be, "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us." Said the apostle Paul, "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."  {18MR 298.1}
[18MR 298.2]          Let no one think he can overcome without the help of God. You must have the energy, the strength, the power, of an inner life developed within you. You will then bear fruit unto godliness, and will have an intense loathing of vice. You need to constantly strive to work away from earthliness, from cheap conversation, from everything sensual, and aim for nobility of soul and a pure and unspotted character. Your name may be kept so pure that it cannot justly be connected with anything dishonest or unrighteous, but will be respected by all the good and pure; and it may be written in the Lamb's book of life, to be immortalized among the holy angels.  {18MR 298.2}
[18MR 298.3]          I have been shown that Satan's specious temptations will come to the workers in every mission, to the workers in every institution in our land, to                                          -299-     encourage familiarity, the men with the women. I write with a distressed heart, that the women in this age, both married and unmarried, too frequently do not maintain the reserve that is necessary. They act like coquettes. They encourage the attentions of single and married men, and those who are weak in moral power will be ensnared.  {18MR 298.3}
[18MR 299.1]          These things, if allowed, deaden the moral senses and blind the mind so that crime does not appear sinful. Thoughts are awakened that would not have been if woman had kept her place in all modesty and sobriety. She may have had no unlawful purpose or motive herself, but she has given encouragement to men who are tempted, and who need all the help they can get from those associated with them. By being circumspect, reserved, taking no liberties, receiving no unwarrantable attentions, but preserving a high moral tone and become dignity, much evil might be avoided.  {18MR 299.1}
[18MR 299.2]          A woman who will allow an unchaste word or hint to be uttered in her presence is not as God would have her; one that will permit any undue familiarity or impure suggestion does not preserve her God-like womanhood. Some may think these warnings unnecessary; but God has shown me that they are necessary in every mission, in every college, in every institution that we have established.  {18MR 299.2}
[18MR 299.3]          The wise man has said, "Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment. Therefore, . . . put away evil from thy flesh."  {18MR 299.3}
[18MR 299.4]          We are in a day when iniquity abounds. There are those who have but little moral sense; self-pollution has been practiced, and the moral powers are                                          -300-     benumbed. Such have no just sense of holiness or purity. They are corrupt, and will corrupt others. Miserable wrecks of humanity are everywhere. Some put on a religious garb; but the soul is defiled, and they corrupt other minds. They call evil good, and good evil. They are Satan's most efficient agents, and individuals of this stamp will connect with our institutions and with God's instrumentalities, masking their evil ways under pretention of godliness. Can we then be too particular, too circumspect? Safety lies in close adherence to rules and regulations in harmony with God's great moral standard of righteousness.  {18MR 299.4}
[18MR 300.1]          And then there are those who, if so disposed, will find ways to secretly carry out their own inclinations, and pursue a course of deception to avoid the censure of those they deem so particular. Some who have influence, who are apparently working for the interest of the sanitarium, encourage by their own course of action a disregard of rules and of order; and the influence of such persons goes a long way toward encouraging insubordination, especially in the direction of courtship and marriage. The parties are unfitted for their duties; they live an unreal life, indulge in too high and romantic visions of bliss, and in their desire to please each other, they become unfaithful.  {18MR 300.1}
[18MR 300.2]          The ideas of courtship have their foundation in erroneous ideas concerning marriage. They follow impulse and blind passion. The courtship is carried on in a spirit of flirtation. The parties frequently violate the rules of modesty and reserve, and are guilty of indiscretion, if they do not break the law of God. The high, noble, lofty design of God in the institution of marriage is not discerned; therefore the purest affections of the heart, the noblest traits of character, are not developed.                                          -301-  {18MR 300.2}
[18MR 301.1]          Not one word should be spoken, not one action performed, that you would not be willing the holy angels should look upon and register in the books above. You should have an eye single to the glory of God. The heart should have only pure, sanctified affection, worthy of the followers of Jesus Christ, exalted in its nature, and more heavenly than earthly. Anything different from this is debasing, degrading in courtship; and marriage cannot be holy and honorable in the sight of a pure and holy God unless it is after the exalted Scriptural principle.  {18MR 301.1}
[18MR 301.2]          These precautions may be regarded as unnecessary. But those who will plead for greater liberty are not worthy to be connected with these institutions. Mild license is termed liberty and freedom. But those who are professedly sons and daughters of God should elevate the standard, and have no fellowship with the unruly who would have rules and regulations made to meet the cases of the disobedient.  {18MR 301.2}
[18MR 301.3]          The sanitarium, unless hedged about with vigilant rules and regulations, would soon become a hotbed of iniquity. There are those who would entrap and mislead souls; they have a spirit to revile, instead of showing respect for those who carry the burden and seek to keep up the standard. The fewer of such persons employed, the safer and purer will be the moral atmosphere of the sanitarium. There always will be persons who will find entrance to such an institution, whose influence will be for evil. They are of that class who are continually putting bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter. There are professed Christians who will warp the conscience and becloud the mind, under the pretense of godliness; and those who do not see nor sense the danger are already the dupes or victims of Satan.                                          -302-  {18MR 301.3}
[18MR 302.1]          Let every youth take heed to his ways. Let every medical student build his foundations on the eternal rock.--Ms 4a. 1885, pp. 17-22; 30-39.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988.  {18MR 302.1}
[18MR 303.1]       MR No. 1347 - Guidelines for Choosing a Life Companion; How to Have a Happy Marriage             (Written sometime in 1886 while Ellen White was in Europe.)          Some of your letters to Brother Whitney have been read to me by himself, and I am more than ever convinced that you are not aware of your real state of feeling before God. You are in great need of divine enlightenment.  {18MR 303.1}
[18MR 303.2]          The question is asked, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to Thy word." In these days of peril and corruption the young are exposed to many trials and temptations. They need an infallible guide, an unerring counsellor. This they will find in the Word of God. Unless they are diligent students of that Word they will make grave mistakes, which will mar their own happiness and that of others, not only in the present but in the future life.  {18MR 303.2}
[18MR 303.3]         There is a disposition with many to be impetuous, headstrong, willful. They have not heeded the unerring counsel of the Word of God. They have not battled with self, and obtained precious victories. Their proud, unbending will has driven them from the path of duty and obedience to wander about in the wilderness of disappointment.  {18MR 303.3}
[18MR 303.4]          My brother, you are sailing in a dangerous harbor. You need a Pilot. Will you scorn to accept the much-needed help, feeling that you are competent to guide your own vessel? Are you not afraid that it will strike some hidden rock, and that you will make shipwreck of faith? The present I regard as the most important period of your life. If you are indeed the young man that was shown                                          -304-     me, your picture flatters you. Your features are sharper than the picture represents, but in other respects it correctly represents the young man presented before me who was, with other youth, infatuated with the subject of courtship and marriage, and whose principal burden was to have his own way.  {18MR 303.4}
[18MR 304.1]          Please look back over your past life and faithfully consider your course in the light of God's Word. Have you made your past wrongs right? You have not cherished that strict conscientiousness in regard to your obligations to your parents that the Bible enjoins. The mother that gave you birth and cared for you in your infancy, you have treated with neglect. You have not regarded her wishes, but have brought pain and sadness to her heart by carrying out your own desires and plans. You have been far from happy. Has the truth you profess sanctified your heart, and softened and subdued your soul? I was shown that the young man of whom I write has a close work to do for himself before he will be fitted to teach the truth to others.  {18MR 304.1}
[18MR 304.2]          The Bible presents a perfect standard of human character. This sacred book, inspired by God and written by holy men, is a perfect guide for man under all circumstances of life. It lays out with great distinctness the duties and obligations of both old and young. If made the guide of life, its teachings will lead the soul upward. It will elevate the mind, improve the character, and give peace and joy to the heart.  {18MR 304.2}
[18MR 304.3]          But you, my brother, have in many respects been your own counsellor and guide, and have taken your case in your own hands. As you have not respected and honored the mother who bore you, you have not respected and honored the judgment of men of experience.  {18MR 304.3}
[18MR 304.4]          You need to study more closely the teachings of the Bible. You will find                                        -305-     revealed in its pages your duty to your kindred and to your brethren in the faith. The fifth commandment reads, "Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee." Again we read, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right."  {18MR 304.4}
[18MR 305.1]          One of the signs that we are living in the last days is that children are disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy. The Word of God abounds in precepts and counsels enjoining respect for our aged parents who have guided us through infancy, childhood, and youth up to manhood and womanhood. It impresses upon us a sacred duty to love and cherish those who are in a great degree dependent upon us for happiness, peace, and health. The Bible gives no uncertain sound on this subject; nevertheless, its teachings have been greatly disregarded.  {18MR 305.1}
[18MR 305.2]          My brother, had you had that high regard for the Bible that you should have had, you would have acted altogether differently toward your own relatives and toward those with whom you are connected in church relationship. I was shown a man like yourself who had many lessons to learn, and the most important one was to learn to know himself. If you have anything to do with the cause and work of God, you should have correct ideas of the obligations and duties of children to their parents, and should yourself be constantly learning in the school of Christ to be meek and lowly of heart.  {18MR 305.2}
[18MR 305.3]          While you have been exacting and critical with others, you have not been acting a noble, Christian part toward Brother and Sister Vuilleumier. You have done many things in secret which have had a controlling influence over their daughter. She was not your property, although you have acted as though she was. If having secret communications and meetings is the example you are to give to others, the Lord has no use for you in His work. You have not loved and guarded                                         -306-     the interest of your brother, neither have you shown that nobility and integrity of soul that everyone who is a child of God will possess.  {18MR 305.3}
[18MR 306.1]          This is true of many of the youth of today. In order to compass their ends, they will work in secrecy, acting a part that is not frank and open and according to the Bible standard. By this course they educate themselves to be untrue to those who love them most and who are trying to be faithful guardians over them. The marriages contracted under such influences are not according to the order of God. Any young man 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. Ingratitude is one of the greatest sins of the age.  {18MR 306.1}
[18MR 306.2]          The young man who makes the Bible his guide need not mistake the path of duty and safety. That blessed Book will teach him to preserve his integrity of character, to be truthful, and to practice no deception. "Thou shalt not steal" was written by the finger of God upon the tables of stone, yet how much underhanded stealing of affections is done and excused by finite beings! A deceptive courtship is maintained, private communications are kept up, until the affections of the daughter, who is inexperienced and knows not whereunto these things may grow, are fastened upon the one who shows by the very course he pursues that he is unworthy of her love.  {18MR 306.2}
[18MR 306.3]          The Bible condemns every species of dishonesty and demands right-doing in all things. He who makes the Bible the guide of his youth, the light of his path, will obey its teachings in all things. He will not transgress one jot or tittle of the law in order to carry out his will or accomplish his object, even if he has to make any and every sacrifice in consequence. If he believes the Bible, he knows the blessing of God will not rest upon him if he departs from                                         -307-     the strict path of rectitude. Although he appears for a time to prosper, he will surely reap the fruit of his doings.  {18MR 306.3}
[18MR 307.1]          The curse of God rests upon many of the ill-timed, inappropriate connections that are made in this age of the world. If the Bible left these questions in a vague, uncertain light, then the course that many of the youth of today are pursuing in their attachments for one another would be more excusable. But the requirements of the Bible are not half-way injunctions. They demand perfect purity of thought, of word, and of deed. We are grateful to God that His Word is a light to the feet, and none need mistake the path of duty. The young should make it a business to consult its pages and to heed its counsels, for sad mistakes are always made when its precepts are departed from.  {18MR 307.1}
[18MR 307.2]          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 counsellor, 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 has taken the helm and guided the bark to certain ruin. It is here that the youth refuse to be reasoned with. It is here that they show less intelligence than on any other subject. The question of marriage seems to have a bewitching power over many. 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.  {18MR 307.2}
[18MR 307.3]          It is this underhanded way that courtships and marriages are carried on that causes a great amount of misery, the full extent of which is known only to God. On this rock thousands have made shipwreck of their souls. Professed Christians, whose lives are marked with integrity and who seem sensible upon                                         -308-     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 to come in close relationship with God.  {18MR 307.3}
[18MR 308.1]          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 in these matters, and he has many suggestions to make; and these suggestions are more often followed than the counsels of God's Word. As the result, we see wrecks of humanity everywhere. When will our youth be wise? The Bible, if carefully studied and obeyed, would prove a safeguard against the delusive snares of Satan.  {18MR 308.1}
[18MR 308.2]          My brother, had you had elevated and correct views in regard to the obligations of children to their parents, you would not have pressed your attentions upon the daughter against the known wishes of her God-fearing parents. You would have seen that by urging her to disregard their counsels and to link her destinies with yours, you were influencing her to break the fifth commandment. When she looks at this matter in the light of the Bible, she feels forbidden to dishonor her parents and bring sorrow to their hearts; but when you urge your claims and set matters before her in a perverted light, she is unsettled and feels that she will be miserable if she does not marry you.  {18MR 308.2}
[18MR 308.3]          The position of Christians will be to keep God's glory in view in this matter. They will not urge their views with a persistency that shows pride and self-will. The spirit of truth and righteousness in the heart will not lead to a course directly contrary to the wishes of God-fearing parents. You should both say, even if your affections do go out to each other, "We will not bring                                         -309-     unhappiness upon our parents in order to please ourselves. We will never venture another step in this direction, unless these barriers are removed and we have the free consent of our parents." This is the way all such engagements should be regarded.  {18MR 308.3}
[18MR 309.1]          I cannot see anything unkind or unreasonable in the letter of Brother Vuilleumier to you. The enemy has perverted this matter to your mind. I see in his letter only that which is consistent for a father to write when the interest and happiness of his daughter are concerned. As you have been instrumental in making this matter known to quite a number, and as your feelings toward Brother Vuilleumier have not been as they should have been, and as some in the church have unwisely given you their sympathy and support, this matter has become quite serious, and demands careful consideration.  {18MR 309.1}
[18MR 309.2]          Shall this kind of work go on? Small children consult only their own desires and inclinations irrespective of their parents' advice and judgment? Some seem never to bestow a thought upon their parents' wishes or preferences, nor to regard their matured experience. Selfishness has closed the door of their hearts to filial affection. This is not the case with the daughter of Brother Vuilleumier, but another mind is influencing her, and she is being molded to another's will, not in any way to improve her character or to give her a valuable experience.  {18MR 309.2}
[18MR 309.3]          There needs to be an awakening in regard to the matter of courtship and marriage. The fifth commandment is held lightly and even positively ignored by the lover's claim. This commandment is the only one to which is annexed a promise. To slight a mother's love, to dishonor a father's care, is a sin which stands registered against many youth. While there are weighty responsibilities devolving upon the parents to guard carefully the future happiness and interest                                         -310-     of their children, it is also their duty to make home as attractive as possible. This is of far greater consequence than to acquire estates and money. Home must not lack sunshine. The home feeling should be kept alive in the hearts of the children, that home will be looked upon by them as a place of peace and happiness next to heaven. Then as they come to maturity they should in their turn try to be a comfort and blessing to their parents. They should not be too ready to leave their parental roof and give their affections and services to a stranger at the very time when they are most needed at home.  {18MR 309.3}
[18MR 310.1]          Parents are entitled to the love of their children, and if the children would manifest more affection in words and acts, it would be a blessing to both. Every kind attention is appreciated by parents. Before a marriage contract is made, every young person should look carefully to see how his or her absence from the home would affect the happiness of the parents. Do they in their feebleness need the help that you alone can give them? Think carefully in regard to who has the strongest claims upon you. Study diligently the character of the one who asks your love. The step you are about to take is one of the most important in your life. It should not be taken hastily. While youth may love, let them not love blindly.  {18MR 310.1}
[18MR 310.2]          Courtship as carried on in this age is a scheme of deception and hypocrisy. It has a bewitching influence upon the minds. I have been shown that had the purposes of many young persons been carried out, there would have been disappointments, estrangements, separation. The enemy of souls has far more to do with match-making than has the Lord, whose property they are. Many youth seem to think that marriage is the attainment of perfect bliss; but if these could see one quarter of the heart-aching letters that I have received from men                                          -311-     and women who are bound by the marriage vow in chains that they cannot and dare not break, they would not be surprised that I trace these lines.  {18MR 310.2}
[18MR 311.1]          Marriage to thousands is the most galling yoke that can be worn. There are thousands that are mated but not matched. The books of heaven are burdened with the woes, the wickedness, and the abuse that are hid under the marriage mantle. This is why I warn the young who are of a marriageable age to make haste slowly in the choice of a companion. The path of marriage life may appear beautiful and full of happiness, but you may be disappointed, as thousands of others have been.  {18MR 311.1}
[18MR 311.2]          One of the greatest errors connected with this subject is that idea that the young and inexperienced must not have their affections disturbed, that there must be no interference in this love experience. If there ever was a subject that needed to be viewed from every standpoint, it is this subject. The aid of the experience of others, and a calm, careful weighing of the matter on both sides, is positively essential. It is a subject that is treated altogether too lightly by the great majority of people. Take God into your counsel, young friends. Pray over the matter. Weigh every sentiment, and watch every development of character in the one with whom you think to link your life interest. Examine carefully to see if your married life will 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 for usefulness in this life?  {18MR 311.2}
[18MR 311.3]          If these reflections present no drawbacks, then in the fear of God move forward. But even if an engagement has been entered into without a full understanding of the character of the one with whom you think to link your destiny, do not think that the engagement makes it a positive necessity for you                                          -312-     to pronounce the marriage vow, and link yourself for life to one whom you cannot love or respect. Be very careful how you enter into unconditional engagements, but better, far better, break the engagement before marriage than separate after marriage, as many do.  {18MR 311.3}
[18MR 312.1]          Few have correct views of marriage. They make light of this Heaven-appointed institution, and after it has been entered into thoughtlessly, without a true sense of its sacredness, the obligations it imposes are often shamefully disregarded. Ignoring the personal rights of women, the husband becomes unkind and authoritative. The individuality of the wife is submerged in that of the husband. She becomes the slave of his caprice and passions, as though she had naught to do but to obey his whims. He quotes texts of scripture to show that he is the head, and that he must be obeyed in all things, claiming that his wife must have no will separate from his. He acts the tyrant. But the same Bible that prescribes the duty of the wife prescribes also the duty of the husband. He is to be kind and affectionate, to love his wife as a part of himself, and to cherish her as Christ does His church.  {18MR 312.1}
[18MR 312.2]          This question of marriage should be a study of both parties instead of a matter of impulse. Obedience to the last six commandments requires this. Crimes of every kind may be traced to unwise marriages. Then should they be entered into blindly, by ignorant and inexperienced children? Should not the parents feel their responsibility to guard the interest of their daughter when their own mature experience teaches them that should she marry the one who solicits her affections it would only result in lifelong unhappiness?  {18MR 312.2}
[18MR 312.3]          True love is a plant that needs culture. 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                                        -313-     character? Does he recognize his filial obligations to her? Is he mindful of her wishes and happiness? If he does not respect and honor his parents, he will not manifest respect and love and kindness and attention towards 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.  {18MR 312.3}
[18MR 313.1]         The youth trust altogether too much to impulse. They should not give themselves away too easily, and be captivated too readily by the winning exterior of the lover. Good common sense is needed here if anywhere; but the facts in the case are ［that］ it has little to do with courtship and marriage nowadays. There is serious, earnest reflection to be done before marriage, if you would not have the most miserable, unhappy reflections after marriage. This step, taken unwisely, is one of the most effective means of ruining the usefulness of men and women. Life becomes a burden, a curse.  {18MR 313.1}
[18MR 313.2]          No one can so effectually ruin a woman's happiness and usefulness as her own husband. Heaven has registered the words and actions of men who have tyrannized over their wives. And no one can do one hundredth part as much to chill the hopes and aspirations of a man, no one can paralyze his energies and make life a heart-sickening burden as ［can］ his own wife; and she may ruin his influence and his prospects. From the marriage hour many men can date their success or their failure.  {18MR 313.2}
[18MR 313.3]          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. They devote time and money and much careful study to the subject, lest                                          -314-     they shall make a failure. How much greater caution should be exercised in entering the marriage relation, a relation which affects future generations and future life? But this holy relation is entered upon with jest and levity, with impulse and passion, with blindness and want of calm consideration.  {18MR 313.3}
[18MR 314.1]          The only explanation of this is that Satan weaves this net to entangle souls. He loves to see misery and ruin in the world. He rejoices to have these inconsiderate souls lose their enjoyment of this world and of the one to come. Often a man who is entirely ignorant of the wants of woman, and of the treatment she should receive, takes her under his proposed protection when his influence and his temperament are to her as a desolating hail, beating down her will and her aspirations, and leaving her no freedom of mind or judgment. She is his slave to do just as he may decide. While women want men of strong and noble characters whom they can respect and love, these qualities need to be mingled with tenderness and affection and patience and forbearance.  {18MR 314.1}
[18MR 314.2]          The wife should in her turn be cheerful, kind, and devoted, assimilating her taste to that of her husband as far as it is possible to do without losing her identity, her individuality, in her husband. Both parties should cultivate patience and kindness and that tender love for each other that will make their married life pleasant and enjoyable. Those who have such high ideas of the marriage life, whose imagination has wrought out an air-castle picture that has naught to do with life's perplexities and troubles, will find themselves sadly disappointed in the reality. When real life comes with its troubles and cares they are wholly unprepared to meet them. They expect in each other perfection, and find weakness and defects, for finite men and women are not faultless. Then, in the place of helping each other, they begin to find fault and express their disappointment. We all need practical godliness to help us to fight the                                           -315-     battle of life valiantly. Our daily prayer should be, Help us to help each other, Lord, each other's woes to bear.  {18MR 314.2}
[18MR 315.1]         My heart is drawn out for you, my brother, because God has given you talents to be improved; but you will need to overcome the defects in your character in order to use your ability with success. You have not seen and understood that the inconsistencies in your character were great drawbacks to your usefulness, and that unless you war against these tendencies, which have thus far controlled you to a greater or less degree, they will surely stand in the way of your attaining the future life. There must be with you and with many others the right discipline of the mind. This is the way to true happiness, faith, and confidence in God.  {18MR 315.1}
[18MR 315.2]          Those who have not taken themselves in hand to control impulse, to subdue self and bring themselves in obedience to the principles of the law of God, will not, can not, be happy or at peace and rest. They need the meekness and lowliness of Christ. They need to learn daily in His school, to wear His yoke, to lift His burdens, to deny inclination, to sacrifice a seeming present good to a future good, a personal advantage for a general advantage.  {18MR 315.2}
[18MR 315.3]          The fountain of content must spring up in the soul. He who seeks happiness by changing his outward surroundings without changing his own disposition, will find that his efforts will only produce fresh disappointments. He carries himself with him. His unrest, his impatience, his uncontrollable thoughts and impulses, are ever present. The great trouble is in himself. He has never learned of Christ the lesson of meekness and lowliness of heart. He has never fallen upon the Rock and been broken. Self has been cherished. The will has never been trained to submit. The unyielding spirit has never been brought into subjection to the will of God.                                            -316-  {18MR 315.3}
[18MR 316.1]          There are many youth who, because they cannot find happiness in plans of their own devising, will not accept it in God's appointed way. They wonder over their unhappiness, and count their best friends--those who discern their difficulties--their enemies. They cling with tenacious grasp to their impressions and their ideas of just what they must have and what they must do in order to be happy, but they lose sight of the fact that the Lord rules alone, and that He is shaping circumstances.  {18MR 316.1}
[18MR 316.2]          God says, "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." Then let finite beings be humble and submissive in their desires, realizing that God uses many influences which it is beyond their power to control. We must take self in hand; we must do our duty faithfully; and in this work peace and rest and happiness will come. We must discipline self, seeking to bring it under the control of intelligent reason. We must have a true sense of what the last six commandments mean. There are opportunities daily of practicing forgetfulness of self, and being a blessing to those around us.  {18MR 316.2}
[18MR 316.3]          We will surely find the peace and rest that Jesus has promised, if we learn to wear His yoke and bear His burdens. "Learn of Me," says 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."  {18MR 316.3}
[18MR 316.4]         Now is our probation; now is your probation. Time is valuable. You have an eternity of bliss to gain, a perdition to shun. Do not fritter away your God-given opportunities by trying to accomplish your own desires. Up to duty and to work for the Master. You have lessons to learn that you have not yet dreamed of. The books of heaven now reveal many things that you can have                                            -317-     blotted from its pages by coming to God with a truly repentant heart and faith in the blood of Christ as the atoning sacrifice. The life that was once lived to the flesh must now be lived by faith in the Son of God.  {18MR 316.4}
[18MR 317.1]          The question now is, What education are you receiving at the present time? What advancement are you making in the divine life? The education of all is now going on. Some are educating themselves for lofty positions where they may receive the praise and honor of men. Some are training in the school of vice and deception, receiving an education that will unfit them for this life and the future immortal life. Some are educating themselves in Christ's school, seeking goodness and truth, aiming to meet God's great moral standard of righteousness, and fitting for the high school above.  {18MR 317.1}
[18MR 317.2]          In the books of heaven are kept an accurate record of the manner of our education and what use we have made of our probationary golden moments. Every day we are learning lessons for time and eternity. Every thought cherished, every impulse indulged, leaves its impressions on the mind. We are under obligation to God to be constantly learning of Christ how to guide and control our thoughts, our feelings and passions. Oh, how fearfully lax we are in our duty to ourselves to let ourselves be molded by our own ideas and our own faulty will. We are running great risks in allowing ourselves to be thus controlled by circumstances.  {18MR 317.2}
[18MR 317.3]          We must study the Pattern, Jesus Christ. Self-culture and divine grace will strengthen us in moral power. Every faculty should be employed to make of us all that Christ has made provision that we should become. How many are losing the balance of their mind for want of heart culture. All goodness commences in the heart. God has entrusted you with abilities. With these entrusted talents you may do a good work for the Master, if they are consecrated                                         -318-     wholly to His service. But there must first be an overcoming of obstinacy and self-sufficiency. There must be a cultivation of kindness and affection. This will have a transforming influence on the character.  {18MR 317.3}
[18MR 318.1]          The critical and censorious spirit that is ever ready to find occasion for reproof and condemnation in others, shows a narrow mind, and plainly reveals a man who has never carefully studied and correctly read the pages of his own heart. God is in earnest with us. We should come in such close connection with Jesus Christ as is represented by the branch that is grafted into the living vine. Then we shall be partakers of the sap and nourishment from the vine, and shall bear fruit to the glory of God.  {18MR 318.1}
[18MR 318.2]          You are now passing through a critical experience. I entreat of you not to be hasty, not to be discouraged, but to submit your case to God. Wait upon the Lord and do His will, and in this hour of trial He will work for you and you will obtain a precious experience. Give God a chance to work. Lay low at the foot of the cross, and God will teach you precious lessons.  {18MR 318.2}
[18MR 318.3]          Self-denial must be practiced in the home. Every member of the family should be kind and courteous, and should studiously seek in all their words and actions to bring peace, contentment, and happiness. Not all members of the family have the same disposition, the same stamp of character, but through self-discipline one can help another, bringing them near, binding them together by words of love and forbearance.  {18MR 318.3}
[18MR 318.4]          But, my brother, in your family there has not been that cultivation of courtesy, Christian politeness, and deference and respect for one another that would prepare its members to marry and make happy families of their own. The lessons that should have been learned in tender sympathy and in patience, kindness, and respect for the members of the family, have not been learned. In                                              -319-     the place of tenderness, courtesy, and love there have been sharp words, clashing of ideas, the combative spirit, the criticizing, dictatorial spirit. There has been a great want of the spirit of Christ.  {18MR 318.4}
[18MR 319.1]          In every family there should be, and will be, if Christ is abiding in the heart, affection and love for one another; not a spasmodic love expressed in fond caresses, but a love that is abiding. It is an abiding principle which distinguishes the grace of love, a principle high and elevated, sacred and holy, of altogether a different character than that love awakened by impulse, a passion that is fitful and that dies suddenly when tested and tried.  {18MR 319.1}
[18MR 319.2]          The home is a place where we are to prepare for the home above. If there are such temperaments in the family that they cannot live in harmony here, they would not, unless converted, be in harmony in the heavenly family. There is altogether too much careless talking, censuring, faultfinding, in families that profess to love and serve God. The unkind words, the irreverence and disrespect in many families, make angels weep. What a record is made upon the books of heaven of unkind looks and words that sting and bite like an adder, and it is not the record of one day only in the year, but of day after day.  {18MR 319.2}
[18MR 319.3]          Oh, that these families would consider that angels of God are taking a daguerreotype of the character just as accurate as the artist takes the likeness of the human features; and it is by our deeds that we will be judged, whether they be good or whether they be evil. We should cultivate patience by practicing patience. We should be kind and forbearing, that we may keep love warm in our hearts and thus develop qualities that Heaven shall approve. Those who go forth from such families to stand at the head of other families will know how to advance the happiness of the one whom they have selected as a companion for                                           -320-     life. There will be mutual love, mutual forbearance. Marriage, in the place of being the end of love, will then be the very beginning of love.  {18MR 319.3}
[18MR 320.1]         We have but one life to live, and nothing should be considered of sufficient value to lead to unhappy words or deeds. We must come into close relationship and be partakers of the divine nature in this life, if we would be a member of the holy family in heaven above.--Letter 3, 1886.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 320.1}
[18MR 321.1]       MR No. 1348 - Mistakes Made at Health Institution; No One is Without Failings; Christians are to Help One Another         (Written March 1, 1888, from St. Helena, California, to Brother and Sister Butcher.)  {18MR 321.1}
[18MR 321.2]          We have had a long, rather hard time getting home. We left Brother Daniells at 9 o'clock. He gave us the directions how to go, but we were lost. As we advanced, the road was impassable, so we decided to take the directions given us to go through Pope Valley, which brought us on Mountain ascent. It took us till night to cross the mountains, bringing us into Pope Valley after dark. The moon was shrouded in clouds, and we were apparently lost on the mountains, for there was not one signboard anywhere to show us our way. A man, Major Selwell, holding the office of postmaster in Montecello, appeared, going the same way as ourselves to Pope Valley. He took Sister Lockwood into his carriage, and we drove on. In many places it was very dangerous. This man seemed to us as an angel of God. He guided us and found a place for us to stay overnight at a farmhouse.  {18MR 321.2}
[18MR 321.3]         We were glad to shelter with Mr. Sweitzer, who kindly entertained us. We paid him $1.50 for our lodgings and feed for the horses. We found that both these persons knew Dr. Burke, and they did not express much confidence in his large boasting of doing such wonderful things. He reported that he had taken off half of a man's kidney, and that the man recovered. This is simply false, for no such thing could be done, and all who know anything of the human organism know this to be the case. These wonderfully exaggerated statements are really                                           -322-     working to his own injury, and skepticism is taking possession of minds in regard to the truthfulness of these marvelous cures reported.  {18MR 321.3}
[18MR 322.1]          We did not, of, course say anything of the existing state of things between the Health Retreat and Dr. Burke. We chose to keep still. I have less and less faith in the Christianity and honesty of the man. I believe him to be a fraud by applying the test that our Saviour has given, "By their fruits ye shall know them." We cannot see how any can have discernment and not see and sense the true spirit of the man. Well, we think Mr. Sweitzer will come to the Health Retreat, and see for himself.  {18MR 322.1}
[18MR 322.2]          We find the Health Retreat is quite well filled up with patients. There are also patients in the house of Sister Foelhurst. I remained so short a time at the Health Retreat, being delayed nearly an entire day on the journey, that I am not well informed as to its conveniences. If you feel like having Alice go there, I think they will do their utmost for her. I find no place where she could have two rooms and cook for themselves. There are so many who have children that they dread to have an additional child in the family. Brother and Sister Harris were not retained at the Health Retreat. I have no doubt ［that］ if you were willing to take the means, you would expend it wisely in sending Alice to Battle Creek. She might be placed in the institution or in a cottage, and have all things convenient and favorable. She could take treatment, and would be helped and made quite comfortable, and we hope quite well. But if you do not do this, send her as soon as possible to St. Helena.  {18MR 322.2}
[18MR 322.3]          I know that some things have transpired at the Health Retreat and there will be, in all probability, things of an unpleasant character that she will have to meet wherever she goes, at whatever institution she may be. But unless                                         -323-     we make up our minds to endure some things, not exactly to our mind, we will find constant difficulty.  {18MR 322.3}
[18MR 323.1]          We have had to labor just as hard to set things in order at the sanitarium at Battle Creek, as we have had to labor here. Where persons of different stamp of character associate together, there must be some things transpire of an unpleasant character; but if all are striving to be a help and a blessing to each other, these apparently objectionable features will be overcome. This earth is not heaven. We are not associating with angels but with failing human beings. There are all kinds of characters and temperaments to be dealt with in the invalids that come to our health institutions.  {18MR 323.1}
[18MR 323.2]          Those who are discerning must and will see the trying position many of those in responsible places are occupying. They are obliged to deal with all kinds of persons, diseased in both body and mind, and those who are Christlike will sympathize with and give them their support.  {18MR 323.2}
[18MR 323.3]          We know that great wrongs have existed, which has been displeasing to God, and those who have in the name of Christ borne the burden of patiently and kindly investigating these errors and mistakes have been trying to correct them. They deserve at least the help of all those of like precious faith. From a Bible standpoint they have a right to expect the support of all those who are light bearers in the cause of God. They have a right to expect of all the true believers solid help in their efforts to set things in order. All who are laborers together with God should be of one mind, of one judgment.  {18MR 323.3}
[18MR 323.4]          We should not rest easy and be content to be carried by this institution while others of the brethren are lifting the heaviest load, planning and praying and working and counseling to make a success of the work which God has said should be done for the good of His people. While Satan works to                                          -324-     demoralize, by taking the control of minds, leading them to make mistakes in their plans, in their management, in their deportment, and trying to take advantage of every opportunity to reproach Jesus and cause the enemies of our faith by their unwise course to blaspheme, shall Christians stand back as spectators, acting only as critics, and be found on the side of Satan as accusers and yet make no truly interested efforts to bring in a better state of affairs? Shall Satan have everything as he pleases, because he has obtained some advantage over those who should have been proof to his temptations, resisting the first approach to wrong?  {18MR 323.4}
[18MR 324.1]          Shall we stand back and make no efforts to expel the enemy, to resist him steadfast in the faith? Some are doing this work, seeking to correct the evils that have existed and that still exist. Then, I inquire, why not come to the help of those who are laboring very hard in the fear of God to point out the mistakes, the errors, and the sins which, if left unreproved, will taint and corrupt many souls, and bring the institution under divine displeasure?  {18MR 324.1}
[18MR 324.2]          The erring ones who have their sins laid open before them--many of them, not all, thank God--will feel that they are misjudged. They will vindicate their own course, justifying themselves, and will become alienated from those who, in the fear of God, tried to do the very work the Lord had given them to do; namely, to reprove, to rebuke, to exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. The reproved ones, who do not humble their hearts before God, will not confess their sins, which are not all specified, but will cover them up and make light of their errors and grievous transgressions, which have been a stumbling block to saints and sinners, and have corrupted souls.  {18MR 324.2}
[18MR 324.3]          They will place the matter in a false light before their friends and relatives. The very thing that gained for Satan the sympathy of one-third of                                           -325-     the angels in heaven, was this spirit of self-justification. The angels were deceived by Satan's misrepresentations and by his artful power of accusing those who would not unite with him. Satan has kept up this work ever since his fall, and he has large numbers of men and women who follow in the very steps he has taken, until they fall from the truth, give up their steadfastness, and stand on Satan's side, as accusers, criticizing others, while they seem to think their own ways are hid from the Lord, that God doth not know, that He doth not take knowledge of their ways or their crooked works.  {18MR 324.3}
[18MR 325.1]          Now, this very work has been going on at the Health Retreat, and shall a few carry the heavy load and all else be spectators? Shall there be none who will feel an interest in every part of God's plans and His instrumentalities, because there have been men and women who by their want of devotion and piety have imperiled the cause and work of God--men and women who have been so circumstanced that they have developed character and revealed that all was not gold but dross and tin? Shall not this be the time when all who are in connection with God shall come to the front and show their colors? Shall it be seen that men and women step back and show no interest, no zeal, no earnest effort, when help is needed? When the car drags heavily, then is the time for everyone to push, put shoulders to the wheels, and not stand back giving orders, or accusing the ones who are trying to push the load, or criticizing everything they do, because it is not done in their way and after their ideas.  {18MR 325.1}
[18MR 325.2]          One thinks things should be done after his way; another shouts out his orders to do things after his way; and there is not concerted action. Let everyone do his level best to move the load with might and strength. It is the duty of all to do this. If the Lord should treat us as some that claim to be Christians treat one another, we should have a sore, hard time. If he should                                         -326-     look upon the selfish, the erring, or crooked ones as they look upon one another and deal with one another, what would become of us? But I am glad the Lord is not man. He bears with our crooked ways, our selfishness, our separation from Him, our defects of character, and seeks to inform us, sending message after message of mercy, encouragement, warning, reproof, and correction, to bring us into a right position before Him, that we may have His love, His care, His blessing, abiding upon us. But if we choose our own selfish, perverse ways, then the Lord, after every means is exhausted, says, "Let them alone; they are joined to their idols."  {18MR 325.2}
[18MR 326.1]          Each of us has a work to do for the Master. Will we do this work? Will we labor with unselfish, self-sacrificing interest to build up His cause, to advance His work? I am determined to do the will of God, to make straight paths for my feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. There are halting, lame ones enough to be stumbled by the unchristian doings of many who name the name of Christ. But God forbid that any of those who have had a knowledge of and an experience in the workings of God and His ways, should themselves be halting and need to be carried. Let them come up to help; let them become spiritually strong by doing the will of our heavenly Father; and then they can help the halting, lame ones.  {18MR 326.1}
[18MR 326.2]          But I want to impress upon you that you should hurt not the oil and the wine because some have proved to be more dross (than) gold. I will not give them up; I will cling to them; and because these are unfaithful to large responsibilities, shall we be a dead weight, a drag on those instrumentalities ordained of God? Those reproved will, some of them, be corrected. Some will not, but will have a spirit of revenge. They will try to injure the work                                          -327-     and the workers because their unfaithfulness has been discovered and faithfully reproved.  {18MR 326.2}
[18MR 327.1]          There will be those who will accept their misrepresentations, who will drink in of their spirit, who will not only imperil the souls of those to whom God has in mercy sent messages of warning, but by representing them as innocent, abused, mistreated, they will make naught of the counsels of God, giving unsanctifying sympathy to those who were wholly undeserving of it, all because they put confidence in erring mortals more than in God and the working of His Spirit through His appointed agencies who correct wrongs and errors in His people. They put out their own eyes, and cannot discern the workings of the enemy any more than they could discern the workings of the Spirit of God to set things in order. They make impressions upon other minds that have not a knowledge of the real workings of evil or the positive workings of the Spirit of God. Therefore, they call good evil, and evil good.  {18MR 327.1}
[18MR 327.2]          Now, this is a condition of things we have had to meet from time to time all through our experience of the last forty years. And it requires faith and patience to meet all the wily workings of the enemy in all His windings and turnings. But very few can appreciate the difficulties under which a health institute has to labor, especially where there is but little capital. Everyone connected with such an institution needs the preciousness of pure and undefiled religion; and the solemn truth of God sanctifying the heart, the life, and the character of the followers of Christ will make men and women discreet, level headed to take in the situation of the instrumentalities of God, and they will do their level best to sustain these institutions.  {18MR 327.2}
[18MR 327.3]          There is so little sympathy even among our people, so little true backbone, to lift when God would have them lift. If all had personal religion, a living                                          -328-     faith in Jesus for themselves, then we would see solid, unselfish work done under a pressure of difficulties. My heart is often almost broken with sadness and grief as I see the little real harmony cultivated among believers. We have a solemn work before us. Ye are laborers together with God, and may we work intelligently, heartily, with decision and positiveness, that we may be blessed and may bless others.  {18MR 327.3}
[18MR 328.1]          The greatest service we can render to the cause of God, and which will reflect steady beams of light upon the pathway of others, is to be patient, kind, steadfast as a rock to principle, God-fearing. This will constitute us the salt of the earth, the light of the world. We shall be often disappointed, for we shall not find perfection in those who are connected with us, and they will not see perfection in us. It is only by agonizing effort on our part that we shall become unselfish, humble, childlike, teachable, meek and lowly of heart, like our divine Lord. We must bring our hearts and minds up to a high point of education on spiritual and heavenly things.  {18MR 328.1}
[18MR 328.2]          This world is not heaven, but it is the workshop of God for the fitting up of His people for a pure and holy paradise. And while each one of us is to feel that he is a part of the great web of humanity, he must not expect that others in that web will be without a flaw any more than himself.  {18MR 328.2}
[18MR 328.3]          Mistakes will be made, and if the erring are willing to be corrected, a valuable experience is gained, so that their defeat is turned to victory. You should consider that while many of our own errors are not brought to light, ［we should］ be careful not to make the mistakes and imperfections of others appear in their worst light either to yourself or to others. No man is perfect, and unjust criticism indulged towards others is not wise or Christlike. All of us                                           -329-     must learn, and then in a Christlike manner impart that knowledge to those who really need it.  {18MR 328.3}
[18MR 329.1]          We have a serious, solemn work to do for ourselves to cleanse our own souls from spot and stain if we will stand before the Son of man when He shall appear, acquitted of Him. We must be educators as well as reformers. To cut loose from everyone who errs and does not follow our own ideas is not doing as Christ is doing for us. We are all fallible, and need pity, forbearance, kindly consideration, and sympathetic love for those with whom we are connected. We are all unworthy of the love and confidence of God. If one errs, then after doing our whole duty to him or her in a Christlike manner, we are not to keep the disagreeable and objectionable things before our mind's eye, but to see what there is good and praiseworthy in them that we can think of and ponder over and speak of.  {18MR 329.1}
[18MR 329.2]          Let me tell you that there is no work that will tend to the upbuilding of the kingdom of Christ in this world that will not receive the deadly assaults of the enemy. There will be a continual wrestling. Walls of difficulty will arise, and objectionable things will appear to discourage those who can be discouraged, so that they will not fight on the side of truth, but unite their forces on the enemy's side, to question, to find fault, and to let unbelief come in, and then they will be of no help to push when every help is needed, at the very time when discouragement is likely to take the place of faith.  {18MR 329.2}
[18MR 329.3]          To rejoice in success when everything seems to be flourishing is an easy thing; but to act as did the builders of the walls of Jerusalem, building with one hand and fighting with the other to preserve their lives and ward off the enemies of truth, is a more difficult matter. You will have to obtain just such an experience in the work of God. We are laborers together with God, and if we sit down with the suffering Man of Calvary                                          -330-     upon His throne, we must be partakers of His sufferings in this life.  {18MR 329.3}
[18MR 330.1]          Did Jesus meet with no discouragement? Was He never disappointed in men? Oh yes, again and again and again! He kept steadfastly to the work of saving humanity. We must do as Christ did, with confidence and love for those for whom He died. All coldness and indifference in regard to the souls of our fellow men is a condemning sin. We must connect with Jesus Christ, and be like Him in character, unselfish, pure, holy, undefiled. We must be wide-awake to the interest and advancement of Christ's work.  {18MR 330.1}
[18MR 330.2]          I write these things to you because I cannot rest. I feel that you are in danger of losing eternal life through the many perplexities and cares that overwhelm you in this life. Arise and shine, I beseech you, before your light shall go out in darkness. I shall meet these warnings given to you in the day of God, and you also will meet them again.--Letter 30, 1888.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 330.2}
[18MR 331.1]       MR No. 1349 - A Perfect Saviour; God's Love for Us; A New Commandment; Working with the W.C.T.U.; The Opportunities of Youth; Developing True Christian Character; Rejection of Inspired Counsel; Resisting Temptation; Justice and Grace         Jan. 2, 1890. Praising God. Have we tasted and seen that the Lord is good? Then let us tell of His goodness. Let praise to God come from human lips. We owe it to God to reflect the light given us. Let no thought of complaint be entertained. Today is mine. How shall I conduct myself today? This is the question that each one must settle for himself.  {18MR 331.1}
[18MR 331.2]          "This is life eternal, that they might know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou has sent." ［John 17:23-26, quoted.］  {18MR 331.2}
[18MR 331.3]         What breadth and depth and height these words reveal. Christ came to this earth to reveal the Father, to place Him in a correct light before men. Satan had aroused the enmity and prejudice of the race against God. He had pointed to Him as exacting, overbearing, and condemnatory, the author of suffering, misery, and death. He charged upon God the attributes of his own character. Jesus came to declare the name of God, to reveal Him to the world. To Moses God had revealed the meaning of His name. ［Exodus 34:5-9; Deuteronomy 7:6-9, quoted.］                                                    -    {18MR 331.3}
[18MR 331.4]          Jan. 3, 1890. A Perfect Saviour. Christ unites in His person the fullness and perfection of the Godhead and the fullness and perfection of sinless                                            -332-     humanity. He met all the temptations by which Adam was assailed, and overcame these temptations, because in His humanity He relied upon divine power. This subject demands far more contemplation than it receives. Christians strike too low. They are content with a superficial spiritual experience, and therefore they have only the glimmerings of light, when they might have far greater knowledge, when they might discern more clearly the wonderful perfection of Christ's humanity, which rises far above all human greatness, all human power. Christ's life is a revelation of what fallen human beings may become through union and fellowship with the divine nature. The more deeply we study the life and character of our Redeemer, the more clearly shall we see the Father as He is, full of goodness and mercy, love and truth.  {18MR 331.4}
[18MR 332.1]          Men and women frame many excuses for their proneness to sin. Sin is represented as a necessity, an evil that cannot be overcome. But sin is not a necessity. Christ lived in this world from infancy to manhood, and during that time He met and resisted all the temptations by which man is beset. He is a perfect pattern of childhood, of youth, of manhood.  {18MR 332.1}
[18MR 332.2]          God's Love For Us. ［John 17:15-23, quoted.］ It seems almost too good to believe that the Father can and does love any member of the human family as He loves His Son. But we have the assurance that He does, and this assurance should bring joy to every heart, awakening the highest reverence, and calling forth unspeakable gratitude. God's love is not uncertain and unreal, but a living reality.  {18MR 332.2}
[18MR 332.3]          Jesus says, "I have manifested Thy name unto the men which Thou gavest Me." How did He do this? By His spotless perfection of character and a life of unselfish service for an unchanging companion. "Therefore doth My Father love                                            -333-     Me," He declares, "because I lay down My life for the sheep." My Father loves you with a love so great that He loves Me the more for dying for you.                                                    -    {18MR 332.3}
[18MR 333.1]          June 3, 1888. Faith--What Is It? In regard to the matter of prayer for the sick, many confusing ideas are advanced. One says, "He who has been prayed for must walk out in faith, giving God the glory, and making use of no remedies. If he is at a health institute, he should leave it at once."  {18MR 333.1}
[18MR 333.2]          I know that these ideas are wrong, and that if accepted they would lead to many evils.  {18MR 333.2}
[18MR 333.3]          On the other hand, I do not wish to say anything that might be interpreted to mean a lack of belief in the efficacy of prayer.  {18MR 333.3}
[18MR 333.4]          The path of faith lies close beside the path of presumption. Satan is ever seeking to lead us into false paths. He sees that a misunderstanding of what constitutes faith will confuse and disappoint. He is pleased when he can persuade men and women to reason from false premises.  {18MR 333.4}
[18MR 333.5]          I can pray for the sick only in one way--"Lord, if it be in accordance with Thy will, for Thy glory and the good of the one who is sick, heal the sufferer, we pray. Not our will, but Thine be done."  {18MR 333.5}
[18MR 333.6]          Nehemiah did not regard his duty as done when he had mourned and wept and prayed before the Lord. He did not only pray, he worked, mingling petition and endeavor.  {18MR 333.6}
[18MR 333.7]          It is no denial of faith to use rational remedies judiciously. Water, air, and sunshine, these are God's healing agents. The use of certain herbs that the Lord has made to grow for the good of man, is in harmony with the exercise of faith.                                            -334-  {18MR 333.7}
[18MR 334.1]          The Power of the Gospel. Human knowledge, human philosophy, cannot transform character. But the Lord can take fallen man, and by grace transform him. He says, "I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir"--fitted, like Enoch, to walk with God, to be the companion of angels. In Christianity there is a wonder-working power.                                                    -    {18MR 334.1}
[18MR 334.2]          Sept. 1, 1899. A New Commandment. Christ says, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." Paul says, "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."  {18MR 334.2}
[18MR 334.3]          "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."  {18MR 334.3}
[18MR 334.4]          These words are the injunctions of heaven, and they are to be brought into the daily practice. If one is at fault, instead of telling someone else of this, go to the one you think to be in error, and tenderly and respectfully, as you would wish to be treated were you in his place, tell him of his mistake. If he is not told of his fault, but instead there are surmisings among others, and no effort is made to save the erring one by telling him of his danger, how will God look upon those who do this cruel work?  {18MR 334.4}
[18MR 334.5]          God declares, "There is none righteousness, no, not one" ［Romans 3:10］. All have the same sinful nature. All are liable to make mistakes. No one is                                            -335-     perfect. The Lord Jesus died for the erring, that they might be forgiven. It is not our work to condemn. Christ did not come to condemn, but to save.  {18MR 334.5}
[18MR 335.1]          "Above all things," the apostle writes, "have fervent charity among yourselves." Do not listen to reports against a brother or a sister. Be very cautious how you take up a reproach against your neighbor. Ask the one who brings the accusation if he has obeyed the word of God in regard to this matter. Christ has left explicit directions as to what should be done. Go to your brother, and tell him his fault between him and you alone. Do not excuse yourself from this, saying, There is no personal grievance between the one who is accused and myself. The rules given by Christ are so definite, so explicit, that this excuse is not valid. Whether or not the grievance is between you and the one accused, the injunction of Christ is the same. Your brother needs help. Tell him, not someone else, that reports are being circulated about him. Give him opportunity to explain. It is possible that the reports are false, and that the difficulties may be adjusted by some simple explanation. This treatment is due everyone supposed to be in error.                                                    -    {18MR 335.1}
[18MR 335.2]          Sept. 12, 1891. God's Love for Us. "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Jesus took the sinner's place. He became "sin for us, who knew no sin." The God of justice did not spare His Son. In the secret place of the Most High a voice was heard: "Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the Lord of hosts." The whole debt for the transgressor of God's law was demanded from our Mediator. A full atonement was required. How appropriate are the words of Isaiah, "It pleased the Lord to                                          -336-     bruise Him; He hath put Him to grief." His soul was made "an offering for sin." "He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities."  {18MR 335.2}
[18MR 336.1]          Jesus suffered the extreme penalty of the law for our transgressions, and justice was fully satisfied. The law is not abrogated; it has lost not one jot of its force. Instead, it stands forth in holy dignity, Christ's death on the cross testifying to its immutability. Its demands have been met, its authority maintained. God spared not His only begotten Son. To show the depth of His love for man, He delivered Him up for us all. "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." Behold Him dying on the cross. Behold Him who was equal with God, mocked and derided by the mob. Behold Him in Gethsemane, bowed under the burden of the sins of the whole world.  {18MR 336.1}
[18MR 336.2]          Was the penalty remitted because He was the Son of God? Were the vials of wrath withheld from Him who was made sin for us? Without abatement the penalty fell upon our divine-human Substitute.  {18MR 336.2}
[18MR 336.3]          Hear His cry, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" He was treated as a sinner that we might be treated as righteous, that God might be just and yet the justifier of the sinner.  {18MR 336.3}
[18MR 336.4]          I ask the impenitent, What greater evidence do you want that God is a God of justice? If the sword of justice woke in its might against the Fellow of the Almighty, and was not sheathed until bathed in the blood of God's only begotten Son, what will be the punishment of those who refuse to accept the atoning sacrifice? When the Son of God interposed in man's behalf, and humbled Himself on Calvary, angels drew back in amazement. Can those for whom this great sacrifice was made escape the wrath of God if they are indifferent to this great salvation? Those who choose to continue in sin will be without a shadow of excuse. Calvary is the only argument that will be used against them.                                          -337-  {18MR 336.4}
[18MR 337.1]          The love existing between the Father and His Son cannot be portrayed. It is measureless. In Christ God saw the beauty and perfection of excellence that dwells in Himself. Wonder, O heavens, and be astonished. O earth, for God spared not His own Son, but gave Him up to be made sin for us, that those who believe may be made the righteousness of God in Him. "God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."  {18MR 337.1}
[18MR 337.2]          Language is too feeble for us to attempt to portray the love of God. We believe it, we rejoice in it, but we cannot comprehend it.  {18MR 337.2}
[18MR 337.3]          Giving Christ, God has given everything. Nothing greater, nothing more costly, could He bestow. In giving His Son, He gave all heaven, not because of any goodness or righteousness that we possess, but because He loved us.  {18MR 337.3}
[18MR 337.4]          Faithfulness in the Christian Life. Many are included in the Saviour's message to the church at Laodicea. No man should keep his foot on the brake to hinder the advancement of the Lord's work. The time has come for the people of God to take their light from under the bushel, and place it where it will shine forth in clear, distinct rays. Let the Lord's workers go forward, and let those who would hinder, stand out of the way.  {18MR 337.4}
[18MR 337.5]          In our social relations with one another, we are to work on Christ's principles. Honesty, true courtesy, kindness, and gentleness are to be seen in our dealings with one another. But there is more than this. We are to exhort one another daily, while it is called today. True faith is not narrow or selfish. We need to be actuated by a strong, living piety, which draws us to God and leads us to work earnestly to correct our errors.  {18MR 337.5}
[18MR 337.6]          Let all Christians take Christ's yoke upon them. The wearing of this yoke means the doing of the duties that Christ has enjoined. If we refuse to perform these duties, we are not Christians.                                          -338-  {18MR 337.6}
[18MR 338.1]          The Work Before Us. There is a great work to be done in our cities, towns, and villages. Some earnest work has been done, and this has been blessed by God. But there is a higher, broader work to be carried on under the Holy Spirit's guidance. And in the doing of this work we are to live the lessons that the Lord has given us in His Word.  {18MR 338.1}
[18MR 338.2]          The Lord's workers in the home and in the foreign field are to remember that they are to exercise good judgment and ever seek counsel from God. There is to be thoughtful planning, and life is not to be imperiled by working without taking time to rest and recuperate.  {18MR 338.2}
[18MR 338.3]          When those who are preaching the truth practice the truth in every deed, heavenly messengers will be in the assemblies that they address, impressing on the hearts of the hearers the words spoken. The shadow that Satan throws across the pathway to eclipse the light of heaven will be pierced by the bright shining of the Sun of Righteousness. How sad it is that the faith of ministers and church members falls so far short of what it might be. If their eyes could be opened, they would see light from heaven shining, the clouds of doubt dispersing, and truth finding entrance to hearts.  {18MR 338.3}
[18MR 338.4]          Prayer is the key that unlocks the storehouse of heaven. The churches have been losing their power. We must have faith in God. We must have a firmer dependence on Him who is the Owner of the universe. The cause of God needs consecrated workers, and it needs money. What shall we do? Pray in faith, believing that as we advance, the means and the workers will come. Let us lay the whole situation before God, because He alone can supply that which we must have in order to enter new fields. He says, Advance, and we are not to wait till the money is in sight. There is to be no failure on our part.                                          -339-  {18MR 338.4}
[18MR 339.1]          A Willingness to Yield. 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 persist in doing as they please.  {18MR 339.1}
[18MR 339.2]          Working With the W.C.T.U. The question has been asked me, When asked by the W.C.T.U. to speak in their meetings, shall we accept the invitation?  {18MR 339.2}
[18MR 339.3]          In answer I reply, When asked to speak in such meetings, never refuse. This is the rule that I have always followed. When asked to speak on temperance, I have never hesitated. Among those who are working for the spread of temperance, the Lord has souls to whom the truth for this time is to be presented. We are to bear a message to the W.C.T.U.  {18MR 339.3}
[18MR 339.4]          Christ's one purpose when upon this earth was to reflect the light of His righteousness to those in darkness. The W.C.T.U. workers have not the whole truth on all points, but they are doing a good work. From those who are Sabbathkeepers the light of truth shines forth to them.  {18MR 339.4}
[18MR 339.5]          Christ's work on this earth was a continual campaign against evil. A man of sorrows and the Friend of sinners, it was His work to point men and women to the Father. He allowed nothing to turn Him aside from the fulfilling of His Heaven-appointed task.  {18MR 339.5}
[18MR 339.6]          The Opportunities of Youth. Those who do not improve the golden opportunities of youth, those who do not when young lay the foundation for a well-balanced, symmetrical character, allow opportunities to pass by that they can never recover. It is in youth that the mind is most expansive, the memory most retentive, habits most easily formed.                                          -340-  {18MR 339.6}
[18MR 340.1]          Developing True Christian Character. The virtue in the character of the true Christian will help those for whom he labors. His acts of kindness and mercy will write their lessons on many minds.  {18MR 340.1}
[18MR 340.2]          Those who are engaged in the work of God will not become rich in houses and/or lands, but they may be assured that godliness has the promise of the life that now is, as well as of that which is to come.  {18MR 340.2}
[18MR 340.3]          The work of God needs men and women who have learned of Christ. The moment God's workmen see Him as He is, that moment they will see themselves as they are, and will ask Him to make them what they ought to be. Selfishness makes men hindrances instead of helps. In God's light we can see our defects, and in His strength we can remedy them.  {18MR 340.3}
[18MR 340.4]          Rejection of Inspired Counsel. For the past twenty years the work of God has been bound about. Had God's directions been followed, its spread might have been a hundred greater than it has been.  {18MR 340.4}
[18MR 340.5]          Men have passed judgment on the messages I have borne, as if they were appointed by God to make of no effect the words given me by the Lord to give to His people. Some have felt at liberty to say which part of the message was from the Lord, and which part was merely the judgment of Sister White. They have done this till they have put out their own spiritual eyesight. They are blinded and deceived by the enemy.  {18MR 340.5}
[18MR 340.6]          The Lord has truth for His people, grand, beautiful, harmonious truth. How long will men and women think that they can measure the Scriptures and the messages sent them to perfect their experience, by their own finite ideas?  {18MR 340.6}
[18MR 340.7]          Christ the Light. Christ is the light of the world. Those who follow Him shall not walk in darkness. He has satisfied the claims of the law, has borne the curse for us, has made His life an offering for us, and has brought in                                             -341-     everlasting righteousness. Walking in the light as Christ is in the light means to trust in Him, to hold fast to Him by faith.  {18MR 340.7}
[18MR 341.1]          The spiritual life of those who make Jesus their example will be a help to those about them. The love, the forbearance, the patience, the longsuffering and self-denial of the Saviour characterize their experience.  {18MR 341.1}
[18MR 341.2]          He who seeks to get to heaven by his own righteousness is forever doing, but never making progress. But he who follows where Christ leads the way, goes from strength to strength, from light to greater light. Walking in the path of faith and obedience, he wins others to the new and living way, which is consecrated by the blood of Christ. The light of truth illuminates his footsteps, and the thought of Christ's life inspires his efforts, enabling him to go on from strength to strength, gaining continually in grace and the knowledge of Christ, until at last he is complete in Him, not having his own righteousness, but the righteousness of Christ.  {18MR 341.2}
[18MR 341.3]          Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. His life stands out in contrast with and in opposition to all error. From this great source of light all truth radiates, and all truth that goes forth from Him returns to Him again in increased splendor.                                                                   -    {18MR 341.3}
[18MR 341.4]          Dec. 10, 1889. Resisting Temptation. "Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, . . . might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ." "Count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."                                             -342-  {18MR 341.4}
[18MR 342.1]          The temptations that assail the children of God are to be regarded as the outworking of the wrath of Satan against Christ, who gave Himself as a sacrifice for our sins, and redeemed us by His blood. Satan is filled with wrath against Jesus. But he cannot hurt the Saviour except by conquering those for whom Christ died. He knows that when through his devices souls are ruined, the Saviour is wounded.  {18MR 342.1}
[18MR 342.2]          The heavenly universe is watching with the deepest interest the conflict between Christ in the person of His saints, and the great deceiver. Those who recognize and resist temptation are fighting the Lord's battles. To such are given the commendation, "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation." Endurance of temptation means the cultivation of patience. The tempted, harassed soul cannot trust in his own strength of purpose. Feeling his utter helplessness, he flees to the stronghold, saying, "My Saviour, I cast my helpless soul upon Thee." The fiercer the temptation, the more strongly he clings to the Mighty One.  {18MR 342.2}
[18MR 342.3]          By faith he passes the temptation over to Christ, and leaves it there. Faith in the Saviour's strength makes him more than a conqueror. It is the miracle-working power of Jesus that arms the Christian with strength to overcome as Christ overcame.  {18MR 342.3}
[18MR 342.4]          Temptation is not sin unless it is cherished. Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, will fill the soul with peace and abiding trust. "When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him."  {18MR 342.4}
[18MR 342.5]          A few hours ago I listened to the complaint of a distressed soul. Satan came to her in an unexpected way. She thought that she had blasphemed the Saviour because the tempter kept putting into her mind the thought that Christ                                          -343-     was only a man, no more than a good man. She thought that Satan's whisperings were the sentiments of her own heart, and this horrified her. She thought that she was denying Christ, and her soul was in an agony of distress.  {18MR 342.5}
[18MR 343.1]          I assured her that these suggestions of the enemy were not her own thoughts, that Christ understood and accepted her; that she must treat these suggestions as wholly from Satan, and that her courage must rise with the strength of the temptation. She must say, "I am a child of God. I commit myself, body and soul, to Jesus. I hate these vain thoughts." I told her not to admit for a moment that they originated with her; not to allow Satan to wound Christ by plunging her into unbelief and discouragement.  {18MR 343.1}
[18MR 343.2]          To those who are tempted, I would say, Do not for a moment acknowledge Satan's temptations as being in harmony with your own mind. Turn from them as you would from the adversary himself. Satan's work is to discourage the soul. Christ's work is to inspire the heart with faith and hope. Satan seeks to unsettle our confidence. He tells us that our hopes are built upon false premises, rather than upon the sure, immutable word of Him who cannot lie.  {18MR 343.2}
[18MR 343.3]          The oldest, most experienced Christians have been assailed by Satan's temptations, but through trust in Jesus they have conquered. So may every soul who looks in faith to Christ.  {18MR 343.3}
[18MR 343.4]          A man cannot put his feet in the path of holiness without evil men and evil angels uniting against him. Evil angels will conspire with evil men to destroy the servants of God. Those who are rebuked for their evil thoughts will hate the reprover of sin and will try to wrench him from the service of Christ. The conflict may be long and painful, but we have the pledged word of the Eternal that Satan cannot conquer us unless we submit to his control.                                           -344-  {18MR 343.4}
[18MR 344.1]          Christ was crucified as a deceiver, yet He was the light and life of the world. He endured the contradiction of sinners against Himself.  {18MR 344.1}
[18MR 344.2]          "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."  {18MR 344.2}
[18MR 344.3]          Can we measure the love of God? Paul declares that "it passeth knowledge." Then shall we who have been made partakers of the heavenly gift be careless and indifferent, neglecting the great salvation wrought out for us? Shall we allow ourselves to be separated from Christ, and thus lose the eternal reward, the great gift of everlasting life? Shall we not accept the enmity which Christ has placed between man and the serpent? Shall we not eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, which means to live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God? Or shall we become earthly, eating the serpent's meat, which is selfishness, hypocrisy, evil-surmising, envy, and covetousness? We have a right to say, "In the strength of Jesus Christ I will be a conqueror. I will not be overcome by Satan's devices."                                                                   -    {18MR 344.3}
[18MR 344.4]          Dec. 13, 1889. The Love of God. Christ came to this world to reveal the Father's love for fallen man. In the heavens above and in the earth beneath, in everything that is beautiful and lovely, in the lofty tree, the opening bud, the blossoming flower, we see an expression of the love of God. There is no measurement by which the love of God can be computed.  {18MR 344.4}
[18MR 344.5]          Standing before the cross of Calvary, we can gain some idea of the love of the heavenly Father. Behold Christ, the Son of the infinite God, dying on the cross for sinners. He clothed His divinity with humanity, that human beings might become partakers of the divine nature. In Christ we have a manifestation of the Father.                                          -345-  {18MR 344.5}
[18MR 345.1]          There is a narrowness in human comprehension that is dishonoring to God. Let not him who claims Christ as his Saviour entertain the thought that God's mercies are confined to him and to the few in whom he is interested. The love and mercy of God are for everyone. Let us gather up the divine tokens of His favor, and return praise and thanksgiving to Him for His goodness, which is bestowed upon us not to be hoarded but to be passed along to others.  {18MR 345.1}
[18MR 345.2]         We are altogether too selfish, too exclusive. The rays of light shining upon us we are to reflect to others. God expects everyone who enjoys His grace to diffuse this grace as freely as Christ bestows His mercies. As the sun shines upon the just and the unjust, so the Sun of Righteousness reflects light to the whole world. Why should those who have been made partakers of the heavenly gift be so exclusive? Why men should try to keep their light to themselves, instead of letting it shine forth to the world, is a marvel to the heavenly universe.                                                                   -    {18MR 345.2}
[18MR 345.3]          Dec. 19, 1889. Justice and Grace. Justice and grace are essentially different but they work in perfect harmony. Every man will receive justice from the hand of God. Every soul that God has created will eventually acknowledge that he has received a reward or punishment in accordance with his work. Man reaps what he has sown.  {18MR 345.3}
[18MR 345.4]          The grace of God is of priceless value. It is through the goodness and mercy of God that it is conferred.  {18MR 345.4}
[18MR 345.5]          The wonderful plan of redemption, which human beings cannot fully understand, shows that the Creator deals justly and loves mercy. Because He loved man, He gave His Son as a sacrifice for sin. The plan of salvation was laid open before the foundation of the world was formed. In counsel together, the                                           -346-     Father and the Son determined that Satan should not be left unchecked to exercise his cruel power upon man. It is God's will that all shall be saved, that not one shall perish; but He does not compel obedience. He leaves all free to say whether or not they will take advantage of His offer of mercy. In giving Jesus, He poured out all heaven in one gift, making it possible for man to come into possession of eternal riches.  {18MR 345.5}
[18MR 346.1]          The love of God, as shown in the gift of His Son, should be talked of and dwelt upon. Why are our lips so silent? Why do we not praise the Lord? Every hour of our Saviour's life was spent in praising God.--Ms 31, 1911.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Ms.  {18MR 346.1}
[18MR 347.1]       MR No. 1350 - God will Solve Crises When Men Do His Will; Church in a Backslidden Condition; Beldens on Norfolk Island         (Written July 29, 1901, from Elmshaven, St. Helena, California, to Brother and Sister Burden.)            I did not think it possible for me to write you anything this mail, but I have a few moments and will begin and write until the mail goes, which is at 2:00 p.m., and it is now nearly dinner time.  {18MR 347.1}
[18MR 347.2]          We are always glad to hear from you and how the work is progressing. We feel sad that so many distressing necessities are pressed in upon us, as the big sinking institutions in Scandinavia and the great necessity of the work in the Southern field; and everything seems to come in a great rush crying, "Send us money, send us money." We will have to meet the demand as soon as possible, but the comfort is that the Lord is our bank; He can furnish us means. "I will not fail nor be discouraged," must oft be repeated.  {18MR 347.2}
[18MR 347.3]         The Lord will work in our behalf when all connected with the institutions and the medical missionary work will consent to drop their own way and take up the Lord's plans. When men begin to weave in the human threads to compose the pattern of the web, the Lord is in no hurry. He waits until men shall lay down their own human inventions, and will accept the Lord's way and the Lord's will.  {18MR 347.3}
[18MR 347.4]          I have written matters for the churches and sent them to Elder Farnsworth. You will probably see it.  {18MR 347.4}
[18MR 347.5]          I can't get this copied--have no time--but if you read without perplexity letters from my own hand, I can do as I am doing now. While my editors are preparing the matters to send, I will drop a few words to you with my pen. I                                           -348-     would give you a relation of an experience Sarah and I had in going to the top of Howell Mountain, but I can't do it for this mail. Will try to prepare it for next mail. I am straining every nerve and muscle to meet the many varieties of difficult problems which must be met.  {18MR 347.5}
[18MR 348.1]          This is the time that all we do in the cause and work of God must be "without spot or wrinkle or any such thing." The present state of the church is far behind the correct standard, and the backsliding has been so gradual and so imperceptible that it is a hard matter to represent its true, lamentable condition. The members of the church seem to settle in so low a grade that no power but the Lord God of Heaven can place her where the evil shall be seen and corrected. There are existing evils in the church which no human power can heal. We must hold the standard high, and then in our own words and attitude and actions represent "the One altogether lovely." All misapprehension produces unkindness consciously or unconsciously, and then unkindness provokes retaliations, and strife propagates itself. I am thankful that Christ has given us such a clear, definite expression of His will that if we will to do the will of God, we shall not fail to know of the doctrine whether it be of God. We need the divine virtues brought into our life constantly.  {18MR 348.1}
[18MR 348.2]          It is well for us to dwell often upon the words of Christ in Matthew 5. I was reading in Proverbs 18, "He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is a folly and a shame unto him." I feel deeply ［that］ we must give most earnest labor through the grace of Christ to work to break up in the church the many words that tend to separate very friends. Let us represent this evil as it is.  {18MR 348.2}
[18MR 348.3]          I have to stop now. E.G.W.                                          -349-  {18MR 348.3}
[18MR 349.1]          I must say a few words more. I send these few words to you regarding Stephen Belden in Norfolk Island. He was sustained there by the conference. I thought it best for him to be near us in Sunnyside, and therefore was at the expense to have him leave his island home. After a time Elder Nobbs urged him so persistently to come back to the island, stating that they needed him there as a counselor and as one who could enlighten them in many ways and act a part in their meetings. I read these letters and finally gave my consent, saying that I would see that the N.S.W. Conference would help him to about two or three dollars per week. I think it should be three at least. Brother Nobbs is now sick, and upon Stephen Belden falls the burden of holding the fort until there can be some man sent.  {18MR 349.1}
[18MR 349.2]          I left, I supposed, explicit orders with Brother Hindson to this work of sending at least that which would in money be two or three dollars per week, and a box of flour, oil, and such things as they have to buy and pay very high for on the island. But I judge from Brother Belden's letter that nothing has been sent. I feel very sad over this. I gave $1,400 from my own resources at one time for the Health Retreat. Now, this matter should be as just and right without any of the reasons I have written, but the matter for some reason has fallen through, and now, understanding the situation, I say, Send three dollars per week and let Brother Belden live and not be pressed for want of food. This is due them by the conference.  {18MR 349.2}
[18MR 349.3]          I will now close this, for the mail goes in about half an hour, and I have fourteen pages of manuscript to read.--Letter 181, 1901.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 349.3}
[18MR 350.1]       MR No. 1351 - Counsel Not to Return to Husband, But to Work in a Sanitarium                   (Written April 6, 1907, to Mrs. Walter Harper.)          I have received your letter, and in reply to it I would say, I cannot advise you to return to Walter Harper unless you see decided changes in him. The Lord is not pleased with the ideas he has had in the past of what is due to a wife. At one time I spoke very plainly to Walter in regard to his responsibilities to his wife. It is very clear to me that it would be a mistake for you to be united again while your love for him is quenched. He cannot make you happy unless his views are changed.  {18MR 350.1}
[18MR 350.2]          You have a duty to perform to your mother. You should not place yourself in a position where you would be miserable and unhappy; and if Brother Harper holds to his former views, the future would be no better for you than the past has been. He does not know how to treat a wife.  {18MR 350.2}
[18MR 350.3]          I feel very sad about this matter. I feel indeed sorry for Walter, but I cannot advise you to go to him against your judgment. I speak to you as candidly as I spoke to him; it would be perilous for you to again place yourself under his dictation. I had hoped that he would change.  {18MR 350.3}
[18MR 350.4]          Brother Harper can place his father in one of our sanitariums, where he will have good care. Your experience of the past is not to be repeated. When you are released from the care of your mother, you can act a part in one of our sanitariums.                                            -351-  {18MR 350.4}
[18MR 351.1]          The Lord understands all about your experiences, Sister Harper. Be of good courage in the Lord; He will not leave you nor forsake you. My heart goes out in tenderest sympathy for you. Hang your helpless soul on Christ.  {18MR 351.1}
[18MR 351.2]          You know that not one word passed between you and me in regard to your going to Battle Creek, neither have you spoken to me concerning your life with Brother Harper in the past. Not a word of complaint have you made to me. The course you took in going to Battle Creek you took on your own responsibility, because you deemed it just and right; and this I do not condemn.  {18MR 351.2}
[18MR 351.3]          Now, my dear sister, you have obtained a knowledge of how to treat the sick, and your help is needed in our sanitarium work. When you write, please tell me in regard to your mother's health.  {18MR 351.3}
[18MR 351.4]          What are you doing? We need faithful workers in our sanitariums that can give treatment.--Letter 148, 1907.     Ellen G. White Estate Washington, D. C. Jan. 22, 1988. Entire Letter.  {18MR 351.4}
[18MR 352.1]       MR No. 1352 - No Safety in Eating Meat; Diseases Prevalent; Drawing Nigh to God         (Written July 26, 1898, from Sydney, Australia, to Dr. J. H. Kellogg.)        What a satisfaction it would be to me to see and talk with you. We are at Stanmore, where our N. S. W. conference convened.  {18MR 352.1}
[18MR 352.2]          As far as we have knowledge, the sanitarium is doing good work. We have just come to the point of the vexed meat question: Should not those who come to the sanitarium have meat on their tables and be instructed to leave it off gradually? One physician, Dr. Caro, and another, Dr. Silas Rand, as in the case of Dr. Maxson, have prescribed a meat diet for the patients, and in one case the large use of butter, even as high as three pounds per week. I knew that these prescriptions were not in the order of God, but that if a change should take place, and we meet one difficulty, a worse state of things might be created.  {18MR 352.2}
[18MR 352.3]          Years ago the light was given me that the position should not be taken to discard all meat, because in some cases it was better than the desserts and dishes composed of sweets. These are sure to create disturbances. It is the variety and mixture of meat, vegetables, fruit, wines, tea, coffee, sweet cakes, and rich pies that ruin the stomach and place human beings in the position where they become invalids, with all the disagreeable effects of sickness upon the disposition. The character becomes perverted, a depraved appetite is established, and a diseased religious experience is the result. The words of the apostle to the Romans should be repeated to all the churches and to all                                            -353-     families: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And 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 12:1, 2］.  {18MR 352.3}
[18MR 353.1]         The perfection of Christian character is attainable. As we approach the close of this earth's history, we will find that the whole world is becoming a lazar house of disease, and transgression of the law of God is bringing the sure result.  {18MR 353.1}
[18MR 353.2]          ［Deuteronomy 4:1-9, quoted.］        In the fifth chapter of this book, the commandments of God are repeated. (Verses 6-21.) The whole chapter is very definite. Read verses 29-33. Again, the requirements of God are given in the eighth chapter, verses 1-15.  {18MR 353.2}
[18MR 353.3]         These requirements were to be framed into song, and sung in the congregations of Israel, lest they should forget them. (Chapters 10:12-22; and 11:26-32.) The entire chapter contains the expressed will of God.  {18MR 353.3}
[18MR 353.4]         I present the word of the Lord God of Israel. Because of transgression, the curse of God has come upon the earth itself, upon the cattle, and upon all flesh. Human beings are suffering the result of their own course of action in departing from the commandments of God. The beasts also suffer under the curse.  {18MR 353.4}
[18MR 353.5]          Meat eating should not come into prescriptions for any invalids from any physician from among those who understand things. Disease in cattle is making meat eating a dangerous matter. The Lord's curse is upon the earth, upon man, upon beasts, upon fish in the sea; and as transgression becomes almost universal, the curse will be permitted to become as broad and as deep as the                                            -354-     transgression. Disease is contracted by the use of meat. The diseased flesh of these dead carcasses are sold in the market places, and disease among men is the sure result.  {18MR 353.5}
[18MR 354.1]          The Lord would bring His people into a position where they will not touch nor taste the flesh of dead animals. Then let not these things be prescribed by any physician who has a knowledge of the truth for this time. There is no safety in eating the flesh of dead animals, and in a short time the milk of the cow will also be excluded from the diet of God's commandment- keeping people. In a short time it will not be safe to use anything that comes from the animal creation. Those who take God at His word and obey His commandments with the whole heart will be blessed. He will be their shield of protection. But the Lord will not be trifled with. Distrust, disobedience, and alienation from God's will and way will place the sinner in a position where the Lord cannot give him His divine favor.  {18MR 354.1}
[18MR 354.2]          All heaven is working to resist Satan's power, to bind the strong man. The angels of God are working to put restrictions upon the power of the enemy until man shall be fully tested and tried. Hear the gracious invitation made to every soul: "He that cometh unto Me I will in no wise cast out." This is not a bodily movement, but the submitting of the human will to the will of supreme wisdom. The human agent does not have to go into heaven to bring God down, or into the deep to bring Him up. He is not far from every one of us. "In Him we live, move, and have our being."  {18MR 354.2}
[18MR 354.3]          No bodily movement is required to bring us near to God. Neither is a violent exercise of the mind necessary. But the Lord invites every human agent to meet Him on the ground of the great atoning Sacrifice. A man is required to                                            -355-     give a cordial assent to the terms of salvation, and be reconciled to the will of God, to do all His commandments, and walk in obedience and fellowship with God. The word of God gives the conditions, testifying. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  {18MR 354.3}
[18MR 355.1]          The invitation is gracious, full, and free to all who receive Christ as their personal Saviour. To all such He gives power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in His name. Christ's dying love is the pledge we bring to the Father for reconciliation with Him, and to all who advance toward Him He gives a hearty welcome. We may take God at His word. There is a oneness between man and his God. Christ is an all-sufficient Saviour. Fallen man may place himself under his Father's protection. The prodigal may be covered with the robe of Christ's righteousness, and given a place at His table.  {18MR 355.1}
