Sunday, January 31, 2021
Always, January 31
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4.
“Rejoice in the Lord alway.” Forgetting our own difficulties and troubles, let us praise God for an opportunity to live for the glory of His name. Let the fresh blessings of each new day awaken praise in our hearts for these tokens of His loving care. When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God that He has kept you through the night. Thank Him for His peace in your heart. Morning, noon, and night, let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend to heaven.—The Ministry of Healing, 253.
Again I say, Rejoice in the Lord. Rest in Him. You need His power, and this power you may have. Go forward firmly, valiantly, courageously. You may err in judgment, but do not lose hold on Jesus. He is wisdom, He is light, He is power. He is to you as a great Rock in a weary land. Rest under His shadow. You need wisdom, and Jesus will give it to you. Do not be unbelieving. The more you are jostled, misapprehended, misstated, misrepresented, the more evidence you have that you are doing a work for the Master, and the more closely you must cling to your Saviour. In all your difficulties be calm and undisturbed, patient and forbearing, not rendering evil for evil, but good for evil. Look to the top of the ladder. God is above it. His glory shines on every soul ascending heavenward. Jesus is this ladder. Climb up by Him, cling to Him, and ere long you will step off the ladder into His everlasting kingdom.—Testimonies for the Church 8:130.
Saturday, January 30, 2021
In His Tabernacle, January 30
In His Tabernacle, January 30
Now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in His tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord. Psalm 27:6.
“Whoso offereth praise,” says the Creator, “glorifieth Me.” All the inhabitants of heaven unite in praising God. Let us learn the song of the angels now, that we may sing it when we join their shining ranks. Let us say with the psalmist, “While I live, will I praise the Lord; I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being.” “Let the people praise Thee, O God; let all the people praise Thee.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, 289.
We must carry to every religious gathering a quickened spiritual consciousness that God and His angels are there, co-operating with all true worshipers.... The place of worship may be very humble, but it is no less acknowledged by God. To those who worship God in spirit and in truth and in the beauty of holiness it will be as the gate of heaven.—Testimonies for the Church 6:362.
The temple of God is opened in heaven, and the threshold is flushed with the glory which is for every church that will love God and keep His commandments. We need to study, to meditate, and to pray. Then we shall have spiritual eyesight to discern the inner courts of the celestial temple. We shall catch the themes of song and thanksgiving of the heavenly choir round about the throne. When Zion shall arise and shine, her light will be most penetrating, and precious songs of praise and thanksgiving will be heard in the assemblies of the saints.—Testimonies for the Church 6:368.
“Happy are they who live within Thy house, praising Thee all day long!” “Better a single day within Thy courts than a thousand days outside!” Psalm 84:4, 10, Moffatt.
Friday, January 29, 2021
In Commemoration of His Blessings, January 29
Also in the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when ye have gathered in the fruit of the land, ye shall keep a feast unto the Lord seven days: on the first day shall be a sabbath, and on the eighth day shall be a sabbath. And ye shall take you on the first day the boughs of goodly trees, branches of palm trees, and the boughs of thick trees, and willows of the brook; and ye shall rejoice before the Lord your God seven days. Leviticus 23:39, 40.
Well would it be for the people of God at the present time to have a Feast of Tabernacles,—a joyous commemoration of the blessings of God to them. As the children of Israel celebrated the deliverance that God had wrought for their fathers, and His miraculous preservation of them during their journeyings from Egypt, so should we gratefully call to mind the various ways He has devised for bringing us out from the world, and from the darkness of error, into the precious light of His grace and truth....
The Feast of Tabernacles was not only commemorative, but typical. It not only pointed back to the wilderness sojourn, but, as the feast of harvest, it celebrated the ingathering of the fruits of the earth, and pointed forward to the great day of final ingathering, when the Lord of the harvest shall send forth His reapers to gather the tares together in bundles for the fire, and to gather the wheat into His garner.... When the ransomed of the Lord shall have been safely gathered into the heavenly Canaan,—forever delivered from the bondage of the curse, under which “the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now,”—they will rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 540-542.
Thursday, January 28, 2021
As Expression of Faith, January 28
Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things. Proverbs 23:16.
God has given us the gift of speech that we may recite to others His dealing with us, that His love and compassion may touch other hearts, and that praise may arise from other souls also to Him who has called them out of darkness into His marvelous light.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 243.
The gift of speech has been greatly abused and widely perverted from its intended purpose; but let those who claim to be children of the heavenly King awake to their responsibility, and make the most of this talent.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 245.
It is a law of nature that our thoughts and feelings are encouraged and strengthened as we give them utterance. While words express thoughts, it is also true that thoughts follow words. If we would give more expression to our faith, rejoice more in the blessings that we know we have,—the great mercy and love of God,—we should have more faith and greater joy. No tongue can express, no finite mind can conceive, the blessing that results from appreciating the goodness and love of God. Even on earth we may have joy as a well-spring, never failing, because fed by the streams that flow from the throne of God.—The Ministry of Healing, 251-253.
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
In Prosperity, January 27
In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him. Ecclesiastes 7:14.
God has given in His Word a picture of a prosperous man,—one whose life was in the truest sense a success, a man whom both heaven and earth delighted to honor. Of his experiences Job himself says:—
“In the ripeness of my days,
When the secret of God was upon my tent;
When the Almighty was yet with me,
And my children were about me; ...
The young men saw me and hid themselves,
And the aged rose up and stood; ...
For when the ear heard me, then it blessed me;
And when the eye saw me, it gave witness unto me;
Because I delivered the poor that cried,
The fatherless also, and him that had none to help him.
The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon me;
And I caused the widow’s heart to sing for joy.
I put on righteousness, and it clothed me;
My justice was as a robe and a diadem.”
“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.”—Education, 142.
The Bible condemns no man for being rich, if he has acquired his riches honestly. Not money, but the love of money, is the root of all evil. It is God who gives men power to get wealth; and in the hands of him who acts as God’s steward, using his means unselfishly, wealth is a blessing, both to its possessor and to the world.—The Ministry of Healing, 212.
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Rejoice in Youth, January 26
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. Ecclesiastes 11:9.
Says the wise man, “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” But do not for a moment suppose that religion will make you sad and gloomy and will block up the way to success. The religion of Christ does not obliterate or even weaken a single faculty. It in no way incapacitates you for the enjoyment of any real happiness; it is not designed to lesson your interest in life, or to make you indifferent to the claims of friends and society. It does not mantle the life in sackcloth; it is not expressed in deep-drawn sighs and groans. No, no; those who in everything make God first and last and best, are the happiest people in the world. Smiles and sunshine are not banished from their countenance.—Messages to Young People, 38.
The Lord would have all His sons and daughters happy, peaceful, and obedient. Jesus says, “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.” “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.”—Steps to Christ, 124.
The joy of Christ in the soul is worth everything.—Testimonies to Ministers, 516.
Monday, January 25, 2021
My Name Is Written in Heaven, January 25
Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. Luke 10:20.
Rejoice not in the possession of power, lest you lose sight of your dependence upon God. Be careful lest self-sufficiency come in, and you work in your own strength, rather than in the spirit and strength of your Master. Self is ever ready to take the credit if any measure of success attends the work. Self is flattered and exalted, and the impression is not made upon other minds that God is all and in all....
Rejoice that through Christ you have become connected with God, members of the heavenly family. While you look higher than yourself, you will have a continual sense of the weakness of humanity. The less you cherish self, the more distinct and full will be your comprehension of the excellence of your Saviour. The more closely you connect yourself with the source of light and power, the greater light will be shed upon you, and the greater power will be yours to work for God. Rejoice that you are one with God, one with Christ, and with the whole family of heaven.—The Desire of Ages, 493.
Sunday, January 24, 2021
I Fear Not His Divine Judgment, January 24
Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of Thy judgments, O Lord. Psalm 97:8.
When “the Lord cometh with ten thousands of His saints to execute judgment upon all,” He will also “convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds.” Every sinner will be brought to see and acknowledge the justice of His condemnation.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 393.
Then it will be seen that Satan’s rebellion against God has resulted in ruin to himself, and to all that chose to become his subjects. He has represented that great good would result from transgression; but it will be seen that “the wages of sin is death.” ... Satan, the root of every sin, and all evil workers, who are his branches, shall be utterly cut off. An end will be made of sin, with all the woe and ruin that have resulted from it. Says the psalmist, “Thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name forever and ever. O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end.”
But amid the tempest of divine judgment, the children of God will have no cause for fear. “The Lord will be the hope of His people, and the strength of the children of Israel.” The day that brings terror and destruction to the transgressors of God’s law, will bring to the obedient, “joy unspeakable, and full of glory.” “Gather My saints together unto Me,” saith the Lord, “those that have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice. And the heavens shall declare His righteousness; for God is Judge Himself.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, 341.
Saturday, January 23, 2021
Sabbath School | The 1st Angel's Message, Part 3 - Drugs & Stimulants | 01/23/2021
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1. In this Sabbath School Lesson, we will study what the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy teach about drugs and stimulants and the
negative effects they have on our bodies.
2. Based on Revelation 14:7, we are commanded to give glory to God. What is one meaning of giving glory to God?
1 Corinthians 10:31
Answer: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
3. What are we told in 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17 regarding our bodies? Answer: ________________________________________
4. Drugs & stimulants cover a wide range of substances including pharmaceutical drugs, street drugs, cannabis, tobacco,
cigarettes, caffeinated teas, as well as coffee. Here are four reasons from scripture why we should avoid the use of drugs
and stimulants.
a) Addictive - Romans 6:16; 7:19, 20, 23; Matthew 4:10
b) Waste of God’s money - Isaiah 55:2; 1 Corinthians 4:1, 2
c) Weakens our ability to hear the Holy Spirit - Galatians 5:16, 17; Romans 8:12-14
d) Slow death/murder - Exodus 20:13; Galatians 5:21
5. Many justify the use of substances such as cannabis (marijuana) by using the argument that God provided everything in
nature to be used and if He did not want us to use it, He would not have created it. What was the condition of the earth prior
to sin, and what happened after man sinned? Genesis 1:31; Genesis 3:17, 18
Answer: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
“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.” {2SM 288.2}
6. Note: Let us now transition and deal with the use of pharmaceutical drugs and street drugs.
7. What are we told in 1 Peter 2:11? Answer: _________________________________________________________________
“Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul,” is the language of the apostle Peter. Many regard this warning as
applicable only to the licentious; but it has a broader meaning. It guards against every injurious gratification of appetite
or passion. It is a most forcible warning against the use of such stimulants and narcotics as tea, coffee, tobacco, alcohol,
and morphine. These indulgences may well be classed among the lusts that exert a pernicious influence upon moral
character. The earlier these hurtful habits are formed, the more firmly will they hold their victim in slavery to lust, and the
more certainly will they lower the standard of spirituality”.—The Review and Herald, January 25, 1881 {CD 62.5}
8. ‘Witchcraft’ is mentioned among the works (or lusts) of the flesh in Galatians 5:20. What does the word “witchcraft’ mean?
The number for the word “witchcraft” in the Strong’s Greek Concordance is 5331. The word is φαρµακεία, ας, ἡ
(Pharmakeía), which means the use or the administering of drugs, medicine or spells.
9. What counsel are we given regarding the use of drugs? In most cases, do they cure disease?
Answer: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
“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 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..." {2SM 288.3}
Saved To Serve
Pastor Andrew Henriques
www.prophesyagain.com
The First angel’s Message, Part 3
Drugs and Stimulants
“People need to be taught that drugs do not cure disease. It is true that they sometimes afford present relief, and the patient
appears to recover as the result of their use; this is because nature has sufficient vital force to expel the poison and to correct the
conditions that caused the disease. Health is recovered in spite of the drug. But in most cases the drug only changes the form
and location of the disease. Often the effect of the poison seems to be overcome for a time, but the results remain in the
system and work great harm at some later period." {MH 126.3}
10. What are we told lays the foundation for the use of liquor, opium, and other such destructive substances?
Answer: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
“By the use of poisonous drugs, many bring upon themselves lifelong illness, and many lives are lost that might be saved by
the use of natural methods of healing. The poisons contained in many so-called remedies create habits and appetites that mean
ruin to both soul and body. Many of the popular nostrums called patent medicines, and even some of the drugs dispensed
by physicians, act a part in laying the foundation of the liquor habit, the opium habit, the morphine habit, that are so
terrible a curse to society.” {MH 126.4}
“Drug medication, as it is generally practiced, is a curse. Educate away from drugs. Use them less and less, and depend
more upon hygienic agencies; then nature will respond to God's physicians—pure air, pure water, proper exercise, a clear
conscience. Those who persist in the use of tea, coffee, and flesh meats will feel the need of drugs, but many might
recover without one grain of medicine if they would obey the laws of health. Drugs need seldom be used.” {CH 261.2}
11. Note: Notice that Sister White says that “drugs need seldom be used.” There are times when pharmaceutical drugs can be
used. Surgery is one example. However, the overarching theme is that we should rely upon God’s natural remedies and faith
in Him to preserve our bodies in good physical, mental, and spiritual health.
12. Note: Two of the most commonly used stimulants, even among Seventh-day Adventists, are caffeinated teas and coffee.
Many see no harm in their use, but they are destroying both body and mind. (Disclaimer: the counsels regarding tea are not
referring to the non-caffeinated, herbal teas such as peppermint, ginger, lemongrass, chamomile, etc).
“What power can the tobacco devotee have to stay the progress of intemperance? There must be a revolution upon the
subject of tobacco before the ax will be laid at the root of the tree. Tea, coffee, and tobacco, as well as alcoholic drinks,
are different degrees in the scale of artificial stimulants.” {CTBH 34.1}
“The effect of tea and coffee, as heretofore shown, tends in the same direction as that of wine and cider, liquor and
tobacco.” {CTBH 34.2}
“Tea is a stimulant, and to a certain extent produces intoxication. It gradually impairs the energy of body and mind.
Its first effect is exhilarating, because it quickens the motions of the living machinery; and the tea-drinker thinks that it is
doing him great service. But this is a mistake. When its influence is gone, the unnatural force abates, and the result is
languor and debility corresponding to the artificial vivacity imparted. The second effect of tea drinking is headache,
wakefulness, palpitation of the heart, indigestion, trembling, and many other evils.” {CTBH 34.3}
“Coffee is a hurtful indulgence. It temporarily excites the mind to unwonted action, but the after-effect is
exhaustion, prostration, paralysis of the mental, moral, and physical powers. The mind becomes enervated, and unless
through determined effort the habit is overcome, the activity of the brain is permanently lessened." {CTBH 34.4}
“All these nerve irritants are wearing away the life-forces, and the restlessness caused by shattered nerves, the
impatience, the mental feebleness, become a warring element, antagonizing to spiritual progress. Then should not those
who advocate temperance and reform be awake to counteract the evils of these injurious drinks? In some cases it is as difficult
to break up the tea-and-coffee habit as it is for the inebriate to discontinue the use of liquor. The money expended for tea
and coffee is worse than wasted. They do the user only harm, and that continually. Those who use tea, coffee, opium, and
alcohol, may sometimes live to old age, but this fact is no argument in favor of the use of these stimulants. What these
persons might have accomplished, but failed to do because of their intemperate habits, the great day of God alone will
reveal.” {CTBH 34.5}
For further counsel, read Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, p. 34-40
13. According to science, caffeine is consumed by 80-90% of Americans in some form on a daily basis. Caffeine is categorized in
a group of psychoactive drugs called stimulants. Although it is a lower level stimulant drug, notice what other drugs it is
grouped with.
The Different Types of Psychoactive Drugs
Examples of stimulants include caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines, and cocaine. Examples of the effects of excessive use of
cocaine may include irritability, mood swings, hallucination, heart palpitations, chest pain, and even death.
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-psychoactive-22500
14. In what ways is caffeine consumed?
• Coffea Arabica (used for coffee)
• Thea sinensis (used for tea)
• Cola acuminata (used as a nut, tea or in soft drinks)
• Theobroma cacao (used in cocoa and chocolate)
• Paullinia cupana (used as guarana in snack bars and energy drinks).
Effects of caffeine on Your Body
There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries some risk. It’s important to be careful when taking any type of
drug.
https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/caffeine/
15. Here is another article detailing the list of effects caffeine has on the body.
The Effects of Caffeine on Your Body
• Alert brain
• Decreased suicide risk
• Rapid heartbeat
• Muscle aches
• Diarrhea
• Fertility issues
• Pregnancy issues
• Increased blood pressure
• Confusion
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Decreased risk of oral cancer
• Heartburn
• Nausea and vomiting
• Prevents calcium absorption in the bones
• Increased urination
• Jitters
https://www.healthline.com/health/caffeine-effects-on-body
16. As we close, what hope does God leave with us, and what practical things can someone do to overcome the use of drugs
and their addiction to stimulants? Matthew 17:21; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Mark 10:27; Philippians 4:13
Answer: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
(a) Change your daily routine. In the morning, drink some lemon water to help detoxify your body and give you a boost of
Vitamin C.
(b) For an energy boost, substitute the caffeinated beverages and food products with fruit smoothies.
(c) Uphold God’s 8 Laws of Health
N - nutrition
E - exercise
W - water
S - sunlight
T - temperance
A - air
R - rest
T - trust in God
“Those who have received instruction regarding the evils of the use of flesh foods, tea and coffee, and rich and
unhealthful food preparations, and who are determined to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, will not continue to
indulge their appetite for food that they know to be unhealthful. God demands that the appetites be cleansed, and that
self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before His
people can stand before Him a perfected people.” {CD 36.4}
“…Temptation once resisted will give power to more firmly resist the second time; every new victory gained over self will
smooth the way for higher and nobler triumphs. Every victory is a seed sown to eternal life.” {5T
Chapter 3—Repentance
How shall a man be just with God? How shall the sinner be made righteous? It is only through Christ that we can be brought into harmony with God, with holiness; but how are we to come to Christ? Many are asking the same question as did the multitude on the Day of Pentecost, when, convicted of sin, they cried out, “What shall we do?” The first word of Peter's answer was, “Repent.” Acts 2:37, 38. At another time, shortly after, he said, “Repent, ... and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.” Acts 3:19.
Repentance includes sorrow for sin and a turning away from it. We shall not renounce sin unless we see its sinfulness; until we turn away from it in heart, there will be no real change in the life.
There are many who fail to understand the true nature of repentance. Multitudes sorrow that they have sinned and even make an outward reformation because they fear that their wrongdoing will bring suffering upon themselves. But this is not repentance in the Bible sense. They lament the suffering rather than the sin. Such was the grief of Esau when he saw that the birthright was lost to him forever. Balaam, terrified by the angel standing in his pathway with drawn sword, acknowledged his guilt lest he should lose his life; but there was no genuine repentance for sin, no conversion of purpose, no abhorrence of evil. Judas Iscariot, after betraying his Lord, exclaimed, “I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood.” Matthew 27:4.
The confession was forced from his guilty soul by an awful sense of condemnation and a fearful looking for of judgment. The consequences that were to result to him filled him with terror, but there was no deep, heartbreaking grief in his soul, that he had betrayed the spotless Son of God and denied the Holy One of Israel. Pharaoh, when suffering under the judgments of God, acknowledged his sin in order to escape further punishment, but returned to his defiance of Heaven as soon as the plagues were stayed. These all lamented the results of sin, but did not sorrow for the sin itself.
But when the heart yields to the influence of the Spirit of God, the conscience will be quickened, and the sinner will discern something of the depth and sacredness of God's holy law, the foundation of His government in heaven and on earth. The “Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world,” illumines the secret chambers of the soul, and the hidden things of darkness are made manifest. John 1:9. Conviction takes hold upon the mind and heart. The sinner has a sense of the righteousness of Jehovah and feels the terror of appearing, in his own guilt and uncleanness, before the Searcher of hearts. He sees the love of God, the beauty of holiness, the joy of purity; he longs to be cleansed and to be restored to communion with Heaven.
The prayer of David after his fall, illustrates the nature of true sorrow for sin. His repentance was sincere and deep. There was no effort to palliate his guilt; no desire to escape the judgment threatened, inspired his prayer. David saw the enormity of his transgression; he saw the defilement of his soul; he loathed his sin. It was not for pardon only that he prayed, but for purity of heart. He longed for the joy of holiness—to be restored to harmony and communion with God. This was the language of his soul:
“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.” Psalm 32:1, 2.
“Have mercy upon me, O God, according toThy loving-kindness:According unto the multitude of Thy tendermercies blot out my transgressions....For I acknowledge my transgressions: and mysin is ever before me....Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean:wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow....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....Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, ThouGod of my salvation:And my tongue shall sing aloud of Thyrighteousness.” Psalm 51:1-14.
A repentance such as this, is beyond the reach of our own power to accomplish; it is obtained only from Christ, who ascended up on high and has given gifts unto men.
Just here is a point on which many may err, and hence they fail of receiving the help that Christ desires to give them. They think that they cannot come to Christ unless they first repent, and that repentance prepares for the forgiveness of their sins. It is true that repentance does precede the forgiveness of sins; for it is only the broken and contrite heart that will feel the need of a Saviour. But must the sinner wait till he has repented before he can come to Jesus? Is repentance to be made an obstacle between the sinner and the Saviour?
The Bible does not teach that the sinner must repent before he can heed the invitation of Christ, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. It is the virtue that goes forth from Christ, that leads to genuine repentance. Peter made the matter clear in his statement to the Israelites when he said, “Him hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.” Acts 5:31. We can no more repent without the Spirit of Christ to awaken the conscience than we can be pardoned without Christ.
Christ is the source of every right impulse. He is the only one that can implant in the heart enmity against sin. Every desire for truth and purity, every conviction of our own sinfulness, is an evidence that His Spirit is moving upon our hearts.
Jesus has said, “I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me.” John 12:32. Christ must be revealed to the sinner as the Saviour dying for the sins of the world; and as we behold the Lamb of God upon the cross of Calvary, the mystery of redemption begins to unfold to our minds and the goodness of God leads us to repentance. In dying for sinners, Christ manifested a love that is incomprehensible; and as the sinner beholds this love, it softens the heart, impresses the mind, and inspires contrition in the soul.
It is true that men sometimes become ashamed of their sinful ways, and give up some of their evil habits, before they are conscious that they are being drawn to Christ. But whenever they make an effort to reform, from a sincere desire to do right, it is the power of Christ that is drawing them. An influence of which they are unconscious works upon the soul, and the conscience is quickened, and the outward life is amended. And as Christ draws them to look upon His cross, to behold Him whom their sins have pierced, the commandment comes home to the conscience. The wickedness of their life, the deep-seated sin of the soul, is revealed to them. They begin to comprehend something of the righteousness of Christ, and exclaim, “What is sin, that it should require such a sacrifice for the redemption of its victim? Was all this love, all this suffering, all this humiliation, demanded, that we might not perish, but have everlasting life?”
The sinner may resist this love, may refuse to be drawn to Christ; but if he does not resist he will be drawn to Jesus; a knowledge of the plan of salvation will lead him to the foot of the cross in repentance for his sins, which have caused the sufferings of God's dear Son.
The same divine mind that is working upon the things of nature is speaking to the hearts of men and creating an inexpressible craving for something they have not. The things of the world cannot satisfy their longing. The Spirit of God is pleading with them to seek for those things that alone can give peace and rest—the grace of Christ, the joy of holiness. Through influences seen and unseen, our Saviour is constantly at work to attract the minds of men from the unsatisfying pleasures of sin to the infinite blessings that may be theirs in Him. To all these souls, who are vainly seeking to drink from the broken cisterns of this world, the divine message is addressed, “Let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17.
You who in heart long for something better than this world can give, recognize this longing as the voice of God to your soul. Ask Him to give you repentance, to reveal Christ to you in His infinite love, in His perfect purity. In the Saviour's life the principles of God's law—love to God and man—were perfectly exemplified. Benevolence, unselfish love, was the life of His soul. It is as we behold Him, as the light from our Saviour falls upon us, that we see the sinfulness of our own hearts.
We may have flattered ourselves, as did Nicodemus, that our life has been upright, that our moral character is correct, and think that we need not humble the heart before God, like the common sinner: but when the light from Christ shines into our souls, we shall see how impure we are; we shall discern the selfishness of motive, the enmity against God, that has defiled every act of life. Then we shall know that our own righteousness is indeed as filthy rags, and that the blood of Christ alone can cleanse us from the defilement of sin, and renew our hearts in His own likeness.
One ray of the glory of God, one gleam of the purity of Christ, penetrating the soul, makes every spot of defilement painfully distinct, and lays bare the deformity and defects of the human character. It makes apparent the unhallowed desires, the infidelity of the heart, the impurity of the lips. The sinner's acts of disloyalty in making void the law of God, are exposed to his sight, and his spirit is stricken and afflicted under the searching influence of the Spirit of God. He loathes himself as he views the pure, spotless character of Christ.
When the prophet Daniel beheld the glory surrounding the heavenly messenger that was sent unto him, he was overwhelmed with a sense of his own weakness and imperfection. Describing the effect of the wonderful scene, he says, “There remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength.” Daniel 10:8. The soul thus touched will hate its selfishness, abhor its self-love, and will seek, through Christ's righteousness, for the purity of heart that is in harmony with the law of God and the character of Christ.
Paul says that as “touching the righteousness which is in the law”—as far as outward acts were concerned—he was “blameless” (Philippians 3:6); but when the spiritual character of the law was discerned, he saw himself a sinner. Judged by the letter of the law as men apply it to the outward life, he had abstained from sin; but when he looked into the depths of its holy precepts, and saw himself as God saw him, he bowed in humiliation and confessed his guilt. He says, “I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.” Romans 7:9. When he saw the spiritual nature of the law, sin appeared in its true hideousness, and his self-esteem was gone.
God does not regard all sins as of equal magnitude; there are degrees of guilt in His estimation, as well as in that of man; but however trifling this or that wrong act may seem in the eyes of men, no sin is small in the sight of God. Man's judgment is partial, imperfect; but God estimates all things as they really are. The drunkard is despised and is told that his sin will exclude him from heaven; while pride, selfishness, and covetousness too often go unrebuked. But these are sins that are especially offensive to God; for they are contrary to the benevolence of His character, to that unselfish love which is the very atmosphere of the unfallen universe. He who falls into some of the grosser sins may feel a sense of his shame and poverty and his need of the grace of Christ; but pride feels no need, and so it closes the heart against Christ and the infinite blessings He came to give.
The poor publican who prayed, “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13), regarded himself as a very wicked man, and others looked upon him in the same light; but he felt his need, and with his burden of guilt and shame he came before God, asking for His mercy. His heart was open for the Spirit of God to do its gracious work and set him free from the power of sin. The Pharisee's boastful, self-righteous prayer showed that his heart was closed against the influence of the Holy Spirit. Because of his distance from God, he had no sense of his own defilement, in contrast with the perfection of the divine holiness. He felt no need, and he received nothing.
If you see your sinfulness, do not wait to make yourself better. How many there are who think they are not good enough to come to Christ. Do you expect to become better through your own efforts? “Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil.” Jeremiah 13:23. There is help for us only in God. We must not wait for stronger persuasions, for better opportunities, or for holier tempers. We can do nothing of ourselves. We must come to Christ just as we are.
But let none deceive themselves with the thought that God, in His great love and mercy, will yet save even the rejecters of His grace. The exceeding sinfulness of sin can be estimated only in the light of the cross. When men urge that God is too good to cast off the sinner, let them look to Calvary. It was because there was no other way in which man could be saved, because without this sacrifice it was impossible for the human race to escape from the defiling power of sin, and be restored to communion with holy beings,—impossible for them again to become partakers of spiritual life,—it was because of this that Christ took upon Himself the guilt of the disobedient and suffered in the sinner's stead. The love and suffering and death of the Son of God all testify to the terrible enormity of sin and declare that there is no escape from its power, no hope of the higher life, but through the submission of the soul to Christ.
The impenitent sometimes excuse themselves by saying of professed Christians, “I am as good as they are. They are no more self-denying, sober, or circumspect in their conduct than I am. They love pleasure and self-indulgence as well as I do.” Thus they make the faults of others an excuse for their own neglect of duty. But the sins and defects of others do not excuse anyone, for the Lord has not given us an erring human pattern. The spotless Son of God has been given as our example, and those who complain of the wrong course of professed Christians are the ones who should show better lives and nobler examples. If they have so high a conception of what a Christian should be, is not their own sin so much the greater? They know what is right, and yet refuse to do it.
Beware of procrastination. Do not put off the work of forsaking your sins and seeking purity of heart through Jesus. Here is where thousands upon thousands have erred to their eternal loss. I will not here dwell upon the shortness and uncertainty of life; but there is a terrible danger—a danger not sufficiently understood—in delaying to yield to the pleading voice of God's Holy Spirit, in choosing to live in sin; for such this delay really is. Sin, however small it may be esteemed, can be indulged in only at the peril of infinite loss. What we do not overcome, will overcome us and work out our destruction.
Adam and Eve persuaded themselves that in so small a matter as eating of the forbidden fruit there could not result such terrible consequences as God had declared. But this small matter was the transgression of God's immutable and holy law, and it separated man from God and opened the floodgates of death and untold woe upon our world. Age after age there has gone up from our earth a continual cry of mourning, and the whole creation groaneth and travaileth together in pain as a consequence of man's disobedience. Heaven itself has felt the effects of his rebellion against God. Calvary stands as a memorial of the amazing sacrifice required to atone for the transgression of the divine law. Let us not regard sin as a trivial thing.
Every act of transgression, every neglect or rejection of the grace of Christ, is reacting upon yourself; it is hardening the heart, depraving the will, benumbing the understanding, and not only making you less inclined to yield, but less capable of yielding, to the tender pleading of God's Holy Spirit.
Many are quieting a troubled conscience with the thought that they can change a course of evil when they choose; that they can trifle with the invitations of mercy, and yet be again and again impressed. They think that after doing despite to the Spirit of grace, after casting their influence on the side of Satan, in a moment of terrible extremity they can change their course. But this is not so easily done. The experience, the education, of a lifetime, has so thoroughly molded the character that few then desire to receive the image of Jesus.
Even one wrong trait of character, one sinful desire, persistently cherished, will eventually neutralize all the power of the gospel. Every sinful indulgence strengthens the soul's aversion to God. The man who manifests an infidel hardihood, or a stolid indifference to divine truth, is but reaping the harvest of that which he has himself sown. In all the Bible there is not a more fearful warning against trifling with evil than the words of the wise man that the sinner “shall be holden with the cords of his sins.” Proverbs 5:22.
Christ is ready to set us free from sin, but He does not force the will; and if by persistent transgression the will itself is wholly bent on evil, and we do not desire to be set free, if we will not accept His grace, what more can He do? We have destroyed ourselves by our determined rejection of His love. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” 2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:7, 8.
“Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart”—the human heart, with its conflicting emotions of joy and sorrow; the wandering, wayward heart, which is the abode of so much impurity and deceit. 1 Samuel 16:7. He knows its motives, its very intents and purposes. Go to Him with your soul all stained as it is. Like the psalmist, throw its chambers open to the all-seeing eye, exclaiming, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23, 24.
Many accept an intellectual religion, a form of godliness, when the heart is not cleansed. Let it be your prayer, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. Deal truly with your own soul. Be as earnest, as persistent, as you would be if your mortal life were at stake. This is a matter to be settled between God and your own soul, settled for eternity. A supposed hope, and nothing more, will prove your ruin.
Study God's word prayerfully. That word presents before you, in the law of God and the life of Christ, the great principles of holiness, without which “no man shall see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14. It convinces of sin; it plainly reveals the way of salvation. Give heed to it as the voice of God speaking to your soul.
As you see the enormity of sin, as you see yourself as you really are, do not give up to despair. It was sinners that Christ came to save. We have not to reconcile God to us, but—O wondrous love!—God in Christ is “reconciling the world unto Himself.” 2 Corinthians 5:19. He is wooing by His tender love the hearts of His erring children. No earthly parent could be as patient with the faults and mistakes of his children, as is God with those He seeks to save. No one could plead more tenderly with the transgressor. No human lips ever poured out more tender entreaties to the wanderer than does He. All His promises, His warnings, are but the breathing of unutterable love.
When Satan comes to tell you that you are a great sinner, look up to your Redeemer and talk of His merits. That which will help you is to look to His light. Acknowledge your sin, but tell the enemy that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” and that you may be saved by His matchless love. 1 Timothy 1:15. Jesus asked Simon a question in regard to two debtors. One owed his Lord a small sum, and the other owed him a very large sum; but he forgave them both, and Christ asked Simon which debtor would love his Lord most. Simon answered, “He to whom he forgave most.” Luke 7:43. We have been great sinners, but Christ died that we might be forgiven. The merits of His sacrifice are sufficient to present to the Father in our behalf. Those to whom He has forgiven most will love Him most, and will stand nearest to His throne to praise Him for His great love and infinite sacrifice. It is when we most fully comprehend the love of God that we best realize the sinfulness of sin. When we see the length of the chain that was let down for us, when we understand something of the infinite sacrifice that Christ has made in our behalf, the heart is melted with tenderness and contrition.
He Clothes Me in His Righteousness, January 23
I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10.
By the wedding garment ... is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess. To the church it is given “that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white,” “not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.” The fine linen, says the Scripture, “is the righteousness of saints.” It is the righteousness of Christ, His unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour.... This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising.... When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness.—Christ’s Object Lessons, 310-312.
Friday, January 22, 2021
He Is Merciful, January 22
O satisfy us early with Thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Psalm 90:14.
He understands our weaknesses and our temptations; and when we come to Him with broken hearts and contrite spirits, He accepts our repentance, and promises that, as we take hold of His strength to make peace with Him, we shall make peace with Him. Oh, what gratitude, what joy, should we feel that God is merciful!—Testimonies for the Church 3:239.
It should not be difficult to remember that the Lord desires you to lay your troubles and perplexities at His feet, and leave them there. Go to Him, saying: “Lord, my burdens are too heavy for me to carry. Wilt Thou bear them for me?” And He will answer: “I will take them. With everlasting kindness will I have mercy upon thee. I will take your sins, and will give you peace. Banish no longer your self-respect; for I have bought you with the price of My blood. You are mine. Your weakened will I will strengthen. Your remorse for sin I will remove.” ... Respond to the calls of God’s mercy, and say: “I will trust in the Lord and be comforted. I will praise the Lord; for His anger is turned away. I will rejoice in God, who gives the victory.”—Testimonies to Ministers, 519.
Thursday, January 21, 2021
He Hath Done Great Things for Me, January 21
The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. Psalm 126:3.
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord ...; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” ... Oh, what a relationship is this! higher and holier than any earthly tie.... God adopts you into His family; you become members of the royal household, sons and daughters of the King who rules in the heaven of heavens. Can you desire a more exalted position than is here promised? Is not this enough? Said the angel, “What could God do for the children of men more than He has already done? If such love, such exalted promises are not appreciated, could He devise anything higher, anything richer and more lofty? All that God could do, has been done for the salvation of men.”—Testimonies for the Church 1:510, 511.
The Lord desires us to appreciate the great plan of redemption, to realize our high privilege as the children of God, and to walk before Him in obedience, with grateful thanksgiving.... He longs to see gratitude welling up in our hearts because our names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, because we may cast all our care upon Him who cares for us. He bids us rejoice because we are the heritage of the Lord, because the righteousness of Christ is the white robe of His saints, because we have the blessed hope of the soon coming of our Saviour.—Christ’s Object Lessons, 299.
Wednesday, January 20, 2021
The Lord Is My Strength, January 20
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise Him. Psalm 28:7.
The care of God is over the weakest of His children. No act of cruelty or oppression toward them is unmarked by Heaven. Over all who love and fear Him, His hand extends as a shield.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 300.
Because of the increasing power of Satan’s temptations, the times in which we live are full of peril for the children of God, and we need to learn constantly of the great Teacher, that we may take every step in surety and righteousness.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 322.
Those who walk humbly before God, distrustful of their own wisdom, will realize their danger, and will know God’s keeping care.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 324.
The great God, whose glory shines from the heavens, and whose divine hand upholds millions of worlds, is our Father. We have only to love Him, trust Him, as little children in faith and confidence, and He will accept us as His sons and daughters, and we shall be heirs to all the inexpressible glory of the eternal world. All the meek will He guide in judgment, the meek will He teach His way. If we will walk in obedience to His will, learning cheerfully and diligently the lessons of His providence, by and by He will say, Child, come home to the heavenly mansions I have prepared for you.—Testimonies for the Church 4:653.
Tuesday, January 19, 2021
Be Joyful that God Is My Helper, January 19
Because Thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of Thy wings will I rejoice. Psalm 63:7.
The Christian always has a strong helper in the Lord. The way of the Lord’s helping we may not know; but this we do know: He will never fail those who put their trust in Him. Could Christians realize how many times the Lord has ordered their way, that the purposes of the enemy concerning them might not be accomplished, they would not stumble along complainingly. Their faith would be stayed on God, and no trial would have power to move them. They would acknowledge Him as their wisdom and efficiency, and He would bring to pass that which He desires to work out through them.—Prophets and Kings, 576.
We are to be one with Christ as He is one with the Father, and the Father will love us as He loves His Son. We may have the same help that Christ had, we may have strength for every emergency; for God will be our front guard and our rearward. He will shut us in on every side.—Testimonies to Ministers, 386.
“Happy the man who stays by the Most High in shelter, who lives under the shadow of Almighty God, who calls the Eternal, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust’!” Psalm 91:1, 2, Moffatt.
In his own strength man is strengthless; but in the might of God he may be strong to overcome evil and to help others to overcome. Satan can never gain advantage of him who makes God his defense.—Prophets and Kings, 175.
Then let us not cast away our confidence, but have firm assurance, firmer than ever before. “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,” and He will help us to the end.—Steps to Christ, 125.
Monday, January 18, 2021
Supreme Love to God, January 18
If thou return to the Almighty, thou shalt be built up, thou shalt put away iniquity far from thy tabernacles. For then shalt thou have thy delight in the Almighty, and shalt lift up thy face unto God. Job 22:23, 26.
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment.” The first four commandments allow no separation of the affections from God. Nor is anything allowed to divide, or share, our supreme delight in Him. Whatever divides the affections, and takes away from the soul supreme love to God, assumes the form of an idol. Our carnal hearts would cling to our idols and seek to carry them along; but we cannot advance until we put them away, for they separate us from God.—Testimonies for the Church 1:289.
If we would but think of God as often as we have evidence of His care for us, we should keep Him ever in our thoughts, and should delight to talk of Him and to praise Him. We talk of temporal things because we have an interest in them. We talk of our friends because we love them; our joys and our sorrows are bound up with them. Yet we have infinitely greater reason to love God than to love our earthly friends; and it should be the most natural thing in the world to make Him first in all our thoughts, to talk of His goodness and tell of His power.—Steps to Christ, 102.
Sunday, January 17, 2021
The Source of Every Blessing, January 17
They took strong cities, and a fat land, and possessed houses full of all goods, wells digged, vineyards, and oliveyards, and fruit trees in abundance: so they did eat, and were filled, and became fat, and delighted themselves in Thy great goodness. Nehemiah 9:25.
God is the source of every blessing for His creatures, and ... to Him man’s gratitude is due for the good gifts of His providence.
“He giveth to all life, and breath, and all things.” ... And it is God who gives men power to get wealth. As an acknowledgement that all things came from Him, the Lord directed that a portion of his bounty should be returned to Him in gifts and offerings to sustain His worship.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 525.
The first that ripened of every product of the land, was consecrated to Him.... Thus the people were constantly reminded that God was the true proprietor of their fields, their flocks, and their herds; that He sent them sunshine and rain for their seedtime and harvest, and that everything they possessed was of His creation, and He had made them stewards of His goods.—Patriarchs and Prophets. 526.
In the seventh month came the Feast of Tabernacles, or of ingathering. This feast acknowledged God’s bounty in the products of the orchard, the olive grove, and the vineyard. It was the crowning festal gathering of the year. The land had yielded its increase, the harvests had been gathered into the granaries, the fruits, the oil, and the wine had been stored, the first fruits had been reserved, and now the people came with their tributes of thanksgiving to God, who had thus richly blessed them.
This feast was to be pre-eminently an occasion of rejoicing.... The labors of the harvest being ended, and the toils of the new year not yet begun, the people were free from care, and could give themselves up to the sacred, joyous influences of the hour.—Patriarchs and Prophets. 540.
Saturday, January 16, 2021
Chapter 1—God’s Love for Man (SC)
Nature and the Bible both tell us of God’s love. Our Father in heaven gives us life, wisdom, and joy. Look at the wonderful and beautiful things of nature. Think of the many ways they provide for the needs and happiness of all living creatures.
The sunshine and rain tell of our Creator’s love. The hills, seas, and plains speak of Him. He supplies the daily needs of every creature. In the beautiful Psalms David wrote of God:
“All living things look hopefully to you,and you give them food when they need it.You give them enoughand satisfy the needs of all.” Psalm 145:15, 16.
God made Adam and Eve perfectly holy and happy. The earth was beautiful as it came from the Creator’s hand. Nothing was spoiled or dying. But Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s law—His law of love. Disobedience brought sadness and death. Yet God showed His love even when sin was causing suffering.
The Bible says that God cursed the ground for the good of human beings Genesis 3:17. He permitted thorns and weeds to grow. He allowed trials and troubles to fill people’s lives with work and care. These troubles were to help lift men and women out of the ruin and shame caused by sin. But this sinful world is not all sorrow and pain. Nature itself gives us messages of hope and comfort. Flowers grow on the weeds, and roses cover the thorns.
The fact that “God is love” is shown by every opening flower and blade of grass. Lovely birds singing their happy songs tell us of God’s tender care. The bright flowers that sweeten the air and the tall green trees of the forest remind us that He wants to make His children happy.
The Bible shows us God’s character. God Himself has told us of His everlasting love and pity. When Moses prayed, “Show me thy glory,” the Lord answered, “I will make all my goodness pass before thee.” Exodus 33:18, 19, KJV. God’s goodness is His glory.
The Lord passed before Moses and said, “I, the Lord, am a God who is full of compassion and pity, who is not easily angered and who shows great love and faithfulness. I keep my promise for thousands of generations and forgive evil and sin.” Exodus 34:6, 7. God is “always patient, always kind,” showing us His constant love. Jonah 4:2; Micah 7:18.
God has drawn our hearts to Him through various means. Through nature and the deepest and tenderest love that human hearts can know, He has tried to tell us about Himself. Yet these do not perfectly show His love.
Even though God has given us all these evidences, Satan, the enemy of good, has blinded people’s minds, so that they look upon God with fear, and they think of Him as hard and unforgiving. Satan tries to make people think of God as a severe judge without pity. He says that the Creator is always watching for people to make mistakes so He can punish them. To show them that this is not true, Jesus came to live in this world. He wanted people to see God’s infinite love.
The Son of God came from heaven to give people a clear picture of the Father. “No one has ever seen God. The only Son, who is the same as God and is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.” John 1:18. “No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” Matthew 11:27.
When one of Jesus’ disciples said, “Show us the Father,” Jesus answered, “For a long time I have been with you all; yet you do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. Why, then, do you say, ‘Show us the Father?’” John 14:8, 9.
Jesus talked about His work on this earth. He said the Lord “has chosen me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free the oppressed.” Luke 4:18. This was His work. He went about doing good and healing all who were made sick by Satan. There were whole villages where there was not one cry of pain, for He had gone through and healed all the sick.
The work of Jesus showed that He was sent from heaven. Love, mercy, and pity were shown in every act of His life. His heart was touched with tender love for people.
God’s Son became a human being so that He could help people. The poorest and humblest were not afraid to come to Him. Even little children wanted to be near Him. They loved to climb up on His knees and look into His thoughtful, loving face.
Jesus did not keep back one word of truth, but He always spoke with love. He was gentle, kind, and thoughtful to others. He was never rude and never spoke more severely than necessary. He never hurt anyone. He did not scold people for their weaknesses. He told the truth, but always in love.
He spoke against insincerity, unbelief, and sin, but sadness was in His voice when He had to speak sharply. Jesus cried over the city He loved, because it would not receive Him as the way, the truth, and the life. The people had turned against their Saviour, but He looked on them with tender pity.
Jesus did not live to please Himself, but He had thoughtful care for others. Every person was precious in His sight. He looked with tender love on every member of God’s family. He saw all human beings as people who needed to be saved.
The life Jesus lived shows us His character. His life also shows us God’s character. Rivers of heavenly love flow out from the heart of God to us through His Son. Jesus, the tender, pitying Saviour, was God, who “appeared in human form.” 1 Timothy 3:16.
Jesus lived and suffered and died to save us. He became a “Man of sorrows” so that we could share in everlasting joy. God let His dear Son leave the glory of heaven and come to a world spoiled by sin. He let Him come to a world dark with the shadow of death. He let His precious Son leave His presence and the worship of the angels. He let Him suffer shame, hate, and death. But “we are healed by the punishment he suffered, made whole by the blows he received.” Isaiah 53:5.
See Jesus in the desert, in Gethsemane, and upon the cross! The perfect Son of God took upon Himself the weight of sin. He had been one with God, but on the cross He felt the awful separation sin makes between God and man. It forced from His lips the cry of pain, “My God, my God, why did you abandon me?” Matthew 27:46. It was the weight of sin, its terrible power to separate a sinner from God, that broke His heart.
But the Son of God did not give His life to make His Father love us. He did not die to make God willing to save. No, no! “God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son.” John 3:16.
The Father loves us not because Christ died for us; He gave His Son to die because He loved us. Through Christ God poured out His infinite love upon a sinful world. “God was making all human beings his friends through Christ.” 2 Corinthians 5:19. God suffered with His Son. In the pain of Gethsemane and the death on the cross, God paid the price to save us.
Jesus said, “The Father loves me because I am willing to give up my life, in order that I may receive it back again.” John 10:17. That is, “My Father has loved you so much that He loves Me even more for giving My life to redeem you. I died in your place, taking your sins. Because I did this, I am closer to My Father than before, for now God can be just and still save sinners who believe in Me.”
Only the Son of God could save us. Only He who was one with God the Father could tell us about Him. Only He who knew how high and how deep God’s love was could show it. Nothing but Christ’s great sacrifice for us could make known how much the Father loves sinners.
“God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son.” John 3:16. He gave Christ to live among men, to take their liabilities and their sins, and to die for them. God gave His Son to this world. By becoming a man, Christ would know how human beings felt and what they needed. He was one with God, but He will always be joined to the human race. “Jesus is not ashamed to call them his family.” Hebrews 2:11.
Jesus is our Sacrifice, our Advocate, our Brother, standing in human form before His Father’s throne. In His human form He will forever be one with the race He has saved. He is the Son of man. And He did all this to lift us from the ruin of sin, so that we might reflect the love of God and share the joy of godly living.
In giving His Son to die for us, our heavenly Father made a great sacrifice and paid a high price to redeem us. Such a great price should help us understand what God hopes we may become through Christ.
The apostle John saw how high, deep, and broad is God’s love. John wanted to tell about it, but he could not find the right words to describe it, so he said, “See how much the Father has loved us! His love is so great that we are called God’s children.” 1 John 3:1. What a high value this places upon us!
By sinning, human beings became subjects of Satan. But through faith in Christ and His death, they may become God’s children. By taking human nature, Christ places sinners where, through connection with Him, they may become worthy of the name “children of God.”
There is no other love like His. Children of the heavenly King! Precious promise! How wonderful to think about the great love of God for a world that did not love Him!
Thinking of God’s love makes us feel very humble. This thought, as shown by Jesus’ death, should bring our minds close to God. The more we study the character of God and keep looking at the cross, the more we see God’s mercy, tenderness, and forgiveness. We also see how fair He is and how just. We see His infinite love and a tender pity that is far greater than the sympathy of a mother for her disobedient child.
Every Good Thing, January 16
Thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the Lord thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house, thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that is among you. Deuteronomy 26:11.
God gave directions to the Israelites to assemble before Him at set periods, in the place which He should choose, and observe special days wherein no unnecessary work was to be done, but the time was to be devoted to a consideration of the blessings which He had bestowed upon them. At these special seasons, they were to bring gifts, freewill offerings, and thank offerings, unto the Lord, according as He had blessed them. The manservant and the maidservant, the stranger, the fatherless and widow, were directed to rejoice that God had by His own wonderful power brought them from servile bondage to the enjoyment of freedom.—Testimonies for the Church 2:573.
Shall we not keep holy festivals unto God? Shall we not show that we have some enthusiasm in His service? With the grand, ennobling theme of salvation before us, shall we be as cold as statues of marble? If men can become so excited over a match game of cricket, or a horse race, or over foolish things that bring no good to anyone, shall we be unmoved when the plan of salvation is unfolded before us? Let ... the church henceforth have festivals of rejoicing unto the Lord.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 371.
Friday, January 15, 2021
The Truth, January 15
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth. 1 Corinthians 13:6.
Love “rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.” He whose heart is imbued with love is filled with sorrow at the errors and weaknesses of others; but when truth triumphs, when the cloud that darkened the fair fame of another is removed, or when sins are confessed and wrongs corrected, he rejoices.—Testimonies for the Church 5:169.
“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.” 1 Peter 1:22.
The Word of God—the truth—is the channel through which the Lord manifests His Spirit and power. Obedience to the Word produces fruit of the required quality—“unfeigned love of the brethren.” This love is heaven born, and leads to high motives and unselfish actions.—The Acts of the Apostles, 520.
“Love is never glad when others go wrong, love is gladdened by goodness, always slow to expose, always eager to believe the best.” 1 Corinthians 13:6, 7, Moffatt.
Thursday, January 14, 2021
The Law of God, January 14
I delight in the law of God after the inward man. Romans 7:22.
The psalmist declares of the good man, “His delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night.” He refers to his own experience, and exclaims, “Oh, how love I Thy law! It is my meditation all the day.” “Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in Thy word.”—Testimonies for the Church 4:526.
The will of God is expressed in the precepts of His holy law, and the principles of this law are the principles of heaven. The angels of heaven attain unto no higher knowledge than to know the will of God; and to do His will is the highest service that can engage their powers.
But in heaven, service is not rendered in the spirit of legality. When Satan rebelled against the law of Jehovah, the thought that there was a law came to the angels almost as an awakening to something unthought of. In their ministry the angels are not as servants, but as sons. There is perfect unity between them and their Creator. Obedience is to them no drudgery. Love for God makes their service a joy. So in every soul wherein Christ, the hope of glory, dwells, His words are reechoed, “I delight to do Thy will, O my God; yea, Thy law is within my heart.”—Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 109.
Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Thy Salvation, January 13
We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the Lord fulfil all thy petitions. Psalm 20:5.
All heaven is interested in our salvation. The angels of God, thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand, are commissioned to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. They guard us against evil, and press back the powers of darkness that are seeking our destruction. Have we not reason to be thankful every moment, thankful even when there are apparent difficulties in our pathway?—Testimonies for the Church 6:63.
God desires that the receivers of His grace shall be witnesses to its power. Those whose course has been most offensive to Him He freely accepts; when they repent, He imparts to them His divine Spirit, places them in the highest positions of trust, and sends them forth into the camp of the disloyal to proclaim His boundless mercy. He would have His servants bear testimony to the fact that through His grace men may possess Christlikeness of character, and may rejoice in the assurance of His great love.—The Desire of Ages, 826.
Tuesday, January 12, 2021
Delight in Christ’s Name, January 12
In Thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in Thy righteousness shall they be exalted. Psalm 89:16.
“The name of the Lord” is “merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, ... forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” Of the church of Christ it is written, “This is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord our Righteousness.” This name is put upon every follower of Christ. It is the heritage of the child of God.—Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 106.
The disciples were to carry their work forward in Christ’s name. Their every word and act was to fasten attention on His name, as possessing that vital power by which sinners may be saved. Their faith was to center in Him who is the source of mercy and power. In His name they were to present their petitions to the Father, and they would receive answer. They were to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Christ’s name was to be their watchword, their badge of distinction, their bond of union, the authority for their course of action, and the source of their success.—The Acts of the Apostles, 28.
“They shall walk, O Lord, in the light of Thy countenance. In Thy name shall they rejoice.” Psalm 89:15, 16.
Monday, January 11, 2021
He Whose Helper Is God, January 11
Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord, his God. Psalms 146:5.
When, after his sin in deceiving Esau, Jacob fled from his father’s home, he was weighed down with a sense of guilt. Lonely and outcast as he was, separated from all that had made life dear, the one thought that above all others pressed upon his soul, was the fear that his sin had cut him off from God, that he was forsaken of Heaven. In sadness he lay down to rest on the bare earth, around him only the lonely hills, and above, the heavens bright with stars. As he slept, a strange light broke upon his vision; and lo, from the plain on which he lay, vast shadowy stairs seemed to lead upward to the very gates of heaven, and upon them angels of God were passing up and down; while from the glory above, the divine voice was heard in a message of comfort and hope. Thus was made known to Jacob that which met the need and longing of his soul,—a Saviour. With joy and gratitude he saw revealed a way by which he, a sinner, could be restored to communion with God.—Steps to Christ, 19.
Jacob’s history is an assurance that God will not cast off those who have been betrayed into sin, but who have returned unto Him with repentance.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 202.
“Oh the bliss of him whose guilt is pardoned, and his sin forgiven! Oh the bliss of him whom the Eternal has absolved, whose spirit has made full confession!” Psalm 32:1, Moffatt.
Sunday, January 10, 2021
At Peace with God and Man, January 10
Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy. Proverbs 12:20.
He who is at peace with God and his fellow men cannot be made miserable. Envy will not be in his heart; evil surmisings will find no room there; hatred cannot exist. The heart that is in harmony with God is a partaker of the peace of heaven, and will diffuse its blessed influence on all around. The spirit of peace will rest like dew upon hearts weary and troubled with worldly strife.—Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 27.
“Blessed are the peacemakers.” The peace of Christ is born of truth. It is harmony with God. The world is at enmity with the law of God; sinners are at enmity with their Maker; and as a result they are at enmity with one another. But the psalmist declares, “Great peace have they which love Thy law; and nothing shall offend them.” Men cannot manufacture peace. Human plans for the purification and uplifting of individuals or of society will fail of producing peace, because they do not reach the heart. The only power that can create or perpetuate true peace is the grace of Christ. When this is implanted in the heart, it will cast out the evil passions that cause strife and dissension. “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir-tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree”; and life’s desert “shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.”—The Desire of Ages, 302-305.
Saturday, January 9, 2021
Friday, January 8, 2021
The Meek, January 8
The meek also shall increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. Isaiah 29:19.
Meekness is a precious grace, willing to suffer silently, willing to endure trials. Meekness is patient, and labors to be happy under all circumstances. Meekness is always thankful, and makes its own songs of happiness, making melody in the heart to God. Meekness will suffer disappointment and wrong, and will not retaliate. Meekness is not to be silent and sulky. A morose temper is the opposite of meekness; for this only wounds and gives pain to others, and takes no pleasure to itself.—Testimonies for the Church 3:335.
A meek and quiet spirit will not be ever looking out for happiness for itself, but will seek for self-forgetfulness, and find sweet content and true satisfaction in making others happy.—Testimonies for the Church 3:536.
The world’s Redeemer had a greater than angelic nature, yet united with His divine majesty were meekness and humility that attracted all to Himself.... The meekness of Christ, manifested in the home, will make the inmates happy; it provokes no quarrel, gives back no angry answer, but soothes the irritated temper, and diffuses a gentleness that is felt by all within its charmed circle. Wherever cherished, it makes the families of earth a part of the one great family above.—Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 16.
Thursday, January 7, 2021
He Who Trusts God, January 7
He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he. Proverbs 16:20.
If we will but listen, God’s created works will teach us precious lessons of obedience and trust. From the stars that in their trackless course through space, follow from age to age their appointed path, down to the minutest atom, the things of nature obey the Creator’s will. And God cares for everything and sustains everything that He has created. He who upholds the unnumbered worlds throughout immensity, at the same time cares for the wants of the little brown sparrow that sings its humble song without a fear. When men go forth to their daily toil, as when they engage in prayer; when they lie down at night, and when they rise in the morning; when the rich man feasts in his palace, or when the poor man gathers his children about the scanty board, each is tenderly watched by the heavenly Father. No tears are shed that God does not notice. There is no smile that He does not mark.
If we would but fully believe this, all undue anxieties would be dismissed. Our lives would not be so filled with disappointment as now; for everything, whether great or small, would be left in the hands of God, who is not perplexed by the multiplicity of cares, or overwhelmed by their weight. We should then enjoy a rest of soul to which many have long been strangers.—Steps to Christ, 86.
Wednesday, January 6, 2021
He Who Fears God, January 6
Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief. Proverbs 28:14.
Without the fear of God, no one can be truly happy.—Testimonies for the Church 4:435.
“God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all them that are about Him.” Psalm 89:7.
Those who realize the greatness and majesty of God, will take His name on their lips with holy awe. He dwelleth in light unapproachable; no man can see Him and live.—Early Writings, 122.
“Wherefore ... let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.” Hebrews 12:28.
True reverence for God is inspired by a sense of His infinite greatness and a realization of His presence. With this sense of the Unseen, every heart should be deeply impressed.... “Holy and reverend is His name,” the psalmist declares. Angels, when they speak that name, veil their faces. With what reverence, then, should we, who are fallen and sinful, take it upon our lips!—Gospel Workers, 178.
Tuesday, January 5, 2021
Let the Righteous Be Glad, January 5
Let the Righteous Be Glad, January 5
Let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. Psalm 68:3.
Whatever is done to the glory of God is to be done with cheerfulness, not with sadness and gloom. There is nothing gloomy in the religion of Jesus. If Christians give the impression by a mournful attitude that they have been disappointed in their Lord, they misrepresent His character, and put arguments into the mouth of His enemies. Though in words they may claim God as their Father, yet in gloom and sorrow they present to the world the aspect of orphans.
Christ desires us to make His service appear attractive, as it really is. Let the self-denials and the secret heart trials be revealed to the compassionate Saviour. Let the burdens be left at the foot of the cross, and go on your way rejoicing in His love who first loved you.—Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 88.
Monday, January 4, 2021
Because He Reigns, January 4
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth. 1 Chronicles 16:31 KJV
The world that Satan has claimed and has ruled over with cruel tyranny, the Son of God has, by one vast achievement, encircled in His love, and connected again with the throne of Jehovah. Cherubim and seraphim, and the unnumbered hosts of all the unfallen worlds, sang anthems of praise to God and the Lamb when this triumph was assured. They rejoiced that the way of salvation had been opened to the fallen race, and that the earth would be redeemed from the curse of sin. How much more should those rejoice who are the objects of such amazing love!—Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 104.
With eager desire all heaven had waited for the end of His tarrying in a world marred by the curse of sin. The time had now come for the heavenly universe to receive their King....
With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledged the supremacy of the Prince of life.... Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, “Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever.”
From that scene of heavenly joy, there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ’s own wonderful words, “I ascend to My Father, and your Father; and to My God and your God.” The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives.—The Desire of Ages, 832-835.
Sunday, January 3, 2021
In Trusting and Loving Him, January 3
Let all those that put their trust in Thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because Thou defendest them; let them also that love Thy name be joyful in Thee. Psalm 5:11.
We may rejoice in hope. Our Advocate is in the heavenly sanctuary, pleading in our behalf. Through His merits we have pardon and peace. He died that He might wash away our sins, clothe us with His righteousness, and fit us for the society of heaven, where we may dwell in light forever. Dear brother, dear sister, when Satan would fill your mind with despondency, gloom, and doubt, resist his suggestions. Tell him of the blood “of Jesus, that cleanses from all sin. You cannot save yourself from the tempter’s power; but he trembles and flees when the merits of that precious blood are urged. Then will you not gratefully accept the blessings Jesus bestows? Will you not take the cup of salvation that He presents, and call on the name of the Lord?—Testimonies for the Church 5:316.
All your happiness, peace, joy, and success in this life are dependent upon genuine, trusting faith in God.... Believe in Jesus as one who pardons your sins, one who wants you to be happy in the mansions He has gone to prepare for you. He wants you to live in His presence; to have eternal life and a crown of glory.—Messages to Young People, 410.
Saturday, January 2, 2021
Sunday Blue Laws, on the books of most States and Countries!
Sunday Worship is soon to be forced. God does not force. God says "Remember the Sabbath, the seventh day, to keep it Holy". Who will you obey finally?
https://prophesyagain.org
In Fellowship with Him, January 2
Glory ye in His holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. Psalm 105:3.
Man, created for fellowship with God, can only in such fellowship find his real life and development. Created to find in God his highest joy, he can find in nothing else that which can quiet the cravings of the heart, can satisfy the hunger and thirst of the soul. He who with sincere and teachable spirit studies God’s Word, seeking to comprehend its truths, will be brought in touch with its Author; and, except by his own choice, there is no limit to the possibilities of his development.—Education, 124.
No man can really enjoy life without religion. Love to God purifies and ennobles every taste and desire, intensifies every affection, and brightens every worthy pleasure. It enables men to appreciate and enjoy all that is true, and good, and beautiful.—Messages to Young People, 264.
To have the consciousness that the eye of the Lord is upon us, and that His ear is open to our prayers, is a satisfaction indeed. To know that we have a never-failing Friend to whom we can confide all the secrets of the soul, is a happiness which words can never express.—Counsels on Health, 628.
Friday, January 1, 2021
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