Chap. 60 - Heaven's Highest Attraction
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtainmercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Heb. 4:16. {AG 68.1}
After pointing to Christ, the compassionate intercessor who is "touched withthe feeling of our infirmities," the apostle says: "Let us therefore come boldlyunto the throne of grace. . . ." The throne of grace represents the kingdom ofgrace; for the existence of a throne implies the existence of a kingdom. {AG68.2}
God's appointments and grants in our behalf are without limit. The throne ofgrace is itself the highest attraction because occupied by One who permits us tocall Him Father. But God did not deem the principle of salvation complete whileinvested only with His own love. By His appointment He has placed at His altaran Advocate clothed with our nature. As our Intercessor, His office work is tointroduce us to God as His sons and daughters. Christ intercedes in behalf ofthose who have received Him. To them He gives power, by virtue of His ownmerits, to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.And the Father demonstrates His infinite love for Christ, who paid our ransomwith His blood, by receiving and welcoming Christ's friends as His friends. Heis satisfied with the atonement made. He is glorified by the incarnation, thelife, death, and mediation of His Son. {AG 68.3}
No sooner does the child of God approach the mercy seat than he becomes theclient of the great Advocate. At his first utterance of penitence and appeal forpardon Christ espouses his case and makes it His own, presenting thesupplication before the Father as His own request. {AG 68.4}
As Christ intercedes in our behalf, the Father lays open all the treasures ofHis grace for our appropriation, to be enjoyed and to be communicated to others."Ask in my name," Christ says; "I do not say that I will pray the Father foryou; for the Father Himself loveth you, because you have loved Me. Make use ofMy name. This will give your prayers efficiency, and the Father will give youthe riches of His grace; wherefore, 'ask and ye shall receive, that your joy maybe full' (John 16:24)." {AG 68.5}
Chap. 61 - Christ is Priest Upon the Throne
Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into theheavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. Heb. 4:14. {AG69.1}
In the temple in heaven, the dwelling place of God, His throne is establishedin righteousness and judgment. In the most holy place is His law, the great ruleof right by which all mankind are tested. The ark that enshrines the tables ofthe law is covered with the mercy seat, before which Christ pleads His blood inthe sinner's behalf. Thus is represented the union of justice and mercy in theplan of human redemption. . . . {AG 69.2}
As a priest, Christ is now set down with the Father in His throne. Upon thethrone with the eternal, self-existent One, is He who "hath borne our griefs,and carried our sorrows" (Isa. 53:4), who "was in all points tempted like as weare, yet without sin" (Heb. 4:15).... "If any man sin, we have an Advocate withthe Father" (1 John 2:1). His intercession is that of a pierced and broken body,of a spotless life. The wounded hands, the pierced side, the marred feet, pleadfor fallen man, whose redemption was purchased at such infinite cost. {AG 69.3}
The intercession of Christ in man's behalf in the sanctuary above is asessential to the plan of salvation as was His death upon the cross. . . .Through defects in the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind,and he knows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. Therefore heis constantly seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatalsophistry that it is impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus pleads in theirbehalf His wounded hands, His bruised body; and He declares to all who wouldfollow Him: "My grace is sufficient for thee" (2 Cor. 12:9). . . . Let none,then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace toovercome them. {AG 69.4}
We are now living in the great day of atonement. . . . All who would havetheir names retained in the book of life should now, in the few remaining daysof their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and truerepentance. There must be deep, faithful searching of heart. {AG 69.5}
Chap. 62 - Encircled by a Rainbow
Behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne . . . and therewas a rainbow round about the throne. Rev. 4:2, 3. {AG 70.1}
The rainbow of promise encircling the throne on high is an everlastingtestimony that "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, thatwhosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John3:16). It testifies to the universe that God will never forsake His people intheir struggle with evil. It is an assurance to us of strength and protection aslong as the throne itself shall endure. {AG 70.2}
As the bow in the cloud is formed by the union of the sunlight and theshower, so the rainbow encircling the throne represents the combined power ofmercy and justice. It is not justice alone that is to be maintained; for thiswould eclipse the glory of the rainbow of promise above the throne; man couldsee only the penalty of the law. Were there no justice, no penalty, there wouldbe no stability to the government of God. {AG 70.3}
It is the mingling of judgment and mercy that makes salvation full andcomplete. It is the blending of the two that leads us, as we view the world'sRedeemer and the law of Jehovah, to exclaim, "Thy gentleness hath made me great"(2 Sam. 22:36). We know that the gospel is a perfect and complete system,revealing the immutability of the law of God. . . . Mercy invites us to enterthrough the gates into the city of God, and justice is sacrificed to accord toevery obedient soul full privileges as a member of the royal family, a child ofthe heavenly King. {AG 70.4}
By faith let us look upon the rainbow round about the throne, the cloud ofsins confessed behind it. The rainbow of promise is an assurance to everyhumble, contrite, believing soul, that his life is one with Christ, and thatChrist is one with God. The wrath of God will not fall upon one soul that seeksrefuge in Him. God Himself has declared, "When I see the blood, I will pass overyou." "The bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I mayremember the everlasting covenant" (Ex. 12:13; Gen. 9:16). {AG 70.5}
Chap. 63 - In the Most Holy Place
The Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him.Hab. 2:20. {AG 71.1}
I saw a throne, and on it sat the Father and the Son. I gazed on Jesus'countenance and admired His lovely person. The Father's person I could notbehold, for a cloud of glorious light covered Him. I asked Jesus if His Fatherhad a form like Himself. He said He had, but I could not behold it, for said He,"If you should once behold the glory of His person, you would cease to exist." .. . {AG 71.2}
I saw the Father rise from the throne, and in a flaming chariot go into theholy of holies within the veil, and sit down. . . . Then a cloudy chariot, withwheels like flaming fire, surrounded by angels, came to where Jesus was. Hestepped into the chariot and was borne to the holiest, where the Father sat.There I beheld Jesus, a great High Priest, standing before the Father. {AG 71.3}
Two lovely cherubs, one on each side of the ark, stood with their wingsoutstretched above it, and touching each other above the head of Jesus as Hestood before the mercy seat. Their faces were turned toward each other, and theylooked downward to the ark, representing all the angelic host looking withinterest at the law of God. Between the cherubim was a golden censer, and as theprayers of the saints, offered in faith, came up to Jesus, and He presented themto His Father, a cloud of fragrance arose from the incense, looking like smokeof most beautiful colours. Above the place where Jesus stood, before the ark,was exceedingly bright glory that I could not look upon; it appeared like thethrone of God. {AG 71.4}
Our crucified Lord is pleading for us in the presence of the Father at thethrone of grace. His atoning sacrifice we may plead for our pardon, ourjustification, and our sanctification. The lamb slain is our only hope. Ourfaith looks up to Him, grasps Him as the One who can save to the uttermost, andthe fragrance of the all-sufficient offering is accepted of the Father. . . .Christ's glory is concerned in our success. He has a common interest in allhumanity. He is our sympathizing Saviour. {AG 71.5}
Chap. 64 - Guarded by Seraphim
I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his trainfilled the temple. Isa. 6:1. {AG 72.1}
When God was about to send Isaiah with a message to His people, He firstpermitted the prophet to look in vision into the holy of holies within thesanctuary. Suddenly the gate and the inner veil of the temple seemed to beuplifted or withdrawn, and he was permitted to gaze within, upon the holy ofholies, where even the prophet's feet might not enter. There rose before him avision of Jehovah sitting upon a throne high and lifted up, while the train ofHis glory filled the temple. Around the throne were seraphim, as guards aboutthe great King, and they reflected the glory that surrounded them. As theirsongs of praise resounded in deep notes of adoration, the pillars of the gatetrembled, as if shaken by an earthquake. With lips unpolluted by sin, theseangels poured forth the praises of God. "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord ofhosts," they cried: "the whole earth is full of his glory" (Isa. 6:3). {AG 72.2}
The seraphim around the throne are so filled with reverential awe as theybehold the glory of God, that they do not for an instant look upon themselveswith admiration. Their praise is for the Lord of hosts. As they look into thefuture, when the whole earth shall be filled with His glory, the triumphant songis echoed from one to another in melodious chant, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lordof hosts." They are fully satisfied to glorify God; abiding in His presence,beneath His smile of approbation, they wish for nothing more. {AG 72.3}
The world that Satan has claimed and has ruled over with cruel tyranny, theSon of God has, by one vast achievement, encircled in His love and connectedagain with the throne of Jehovah. Cherubim and seraphim, and the unnumberedhosts of all the unfallen worlds, sang anthems of praise to God and the Lambwhen this triumph was assured. They rejoiced that the way of salvation had beenopened to the fallen race and that the earth would be redeemed from the curse ofsin. How much more should those rejoice who are the objects of such amazinglove! How can we ever be in doubt and uncertainty, and feel that we are orphans?{AG 72.4}
Chap. 65 - Founded on Righteousness
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. Ps. 97:2, N.E.B.{AG 73.1}
In all His dealings with His creatures God has maintained the principles ofrighteousness by revealing sin in its true character--by demonstrating that itssure result is misery and death. The unconditional pardon of sin never has been,and never will be. Such pardon would show the abandonment of the principles ofrighteousness, which are the very foundation of the government of God. It wouldfill the unfallen universe with consternation. God has faithfully pointed outthe results of sin, and if these warnings were not true, how could we be surethat His promises would be fulfilled? That so-called benevolence which would setaside justice, is not benevolence, but weakness. {AG 73.2}
God is the life-giver. From the beginning, all His laws were ordained tolife. But sin broke in upon the order that God had established, and discordfollowed. So long as sin exists, suffering and death are inevitable. It is onlybecause the Redeemer has borne the curse of sin in our behalf, that man can hopeto escape, in his own person, its dire results. {AG 73.3}
We are to accept of Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto usthe righteousness of God in Christ. . . . "Herein is love, not that we lovedGod, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins"(1 John 4:10). {AG 73.4}
In the love of God has been opened the most marvellous vein of precioustruth, and the treasures of the grace of Christ are laid open before the churchand the world.... What love is this, what marvellous, unfathomable love thatwould lead Christ to die for us while we were yet sinners. What a loss it is tothe soul who understands the strong claims of the law, and who yet fails tounderstand the grace of Christ which doth much more abound. . . . Look at thecross of Calvary. It is a standing pledge of the boundless love, the measurelessmercy of the heavenly Father. {AG 73.5}
There is a God in Israel, with whom is deliverance for all that areoppressed. Righteousness is the habitation of His throne. {AG 73.6}
Chap. 66 - Established in Justice and Judgment
Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shallgo before thy face. Ps. 89:14. {AG 74.1}
Through Jesus, God's mercy was manifested to men; but mercy does not setaside justice. The law reveals the attributes of God's character, and not a jotor tittle of it could be changed to meet man in his fallen condition. God didnot change His law, but He sacrificed Himself, in Christ, for man's redemption."God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself" (2 Cor. 5:19). . . . {AG74.2}
God's love has been expressed in His justice no less than in His mercy.Justice is the foundation of His throne, and the fruit of His love. It had beenSatan's purpose to divorce mercy from truth and justice. He sought to prove thatthe righteousness of God's law is an enemy to peace. But Christ shows that inGod's plan they are indissolubly joined together; the one cannot exist withoutthe other. "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace havekissed each other" (Ps. 85:10). {AG 74.3}
By His life and His death, Christ proved that God's justice did not destroyHis mercy, but that sin could be forgiven, and that the law is righteous, andcan be perfectly obeyed. Satan's charges were refuted. {AG 74.4}
The grace of Christ and the law of God are inseparable. In Jesus mercy andtruth are met together.... He was the representative of God and the exemplar ofhumanity. He presented to the world what humanity might become when united byfaith with divinity. The only-begotten Son of God took upon Him the nature ofman, and established His cross between earth and heaven. Through the cross, manwas drawn to God, and God to man. Justice moved from its high and awfulposition, and the heavenly hosts, the armies of holiness, drew near to thecross, bowing with reverence; for at the cross justice was satisfied. Throughthe cross the sinner was drawn from the stronghold of sin, from the confederacyof evil, and at every approach to the cross his heart relents and in penitencehe cries, "It was my sins that crucified the Son of God." At the cross he leaveshis sins, and through the grace of Christ his character is transformed. {AG74.5}
Chap. 67 - Fountain of Life and Power
Every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, andsuch as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, andhonour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and untothe Lamb for ever and ever. Rev. 5:13. {AG 75.1}
God desires His obedient children to claim His blessing and to come beforeHim with praise and thanksgiving. God is the Fountain of life and power. . . .He has done for His chosen people that which should inspire every heart withthanksgiving, and it grieves Him that so little praise is offered. He desires tohave a stronger expression from His people, showing that they know they havereason for joy and gladness. {AG 75.2}
The dealings of God with His people should be often repeated. How frequentlywere the waymarks set up by the Lord in His dealings with ancient Israel! Lestthey should forget the history of the past, He commanded Moses to frame theseevents into song, that parents might teach them to their children. . . . For Hispeople in this generation the Lord has wrought as a wonder-working God. The pasthistory of the cause of God needs to be often brought before the people, youngand old. We need often to recount God's goodness and to praise Him for Hiswonderful works. . . . {AG 75.3}
The church of God below is one with the church of God above. Believers on theearth and the beings in heaven who have never fallen constitute one church.Every heavenly intelligence is interested in the assemblies of the saints who onearth meet to worship God. In the inner court of heaven they listen to thetestimony of the witnesses for Christ in the outer court on earth, and thepraise and thanksgiving from the worshippers below is taken up in the heavenlyanthem, and praise and rejoicing sound through the heavenly courts becauseChrist has not died in vain for the fallen sons of Adam. While angels drink fromthe fountainhead, the saints on earth drink of the pure streams flowing from thethrone, the streams that make glad the city of our God. Oh, that we could allrealize the nearness of heaven to earth! . . . In every assembly of the saintsbelow are angels of God, listening to the testimonies, songs, and prayers. Letus remember that our praises are supplemented by the choirs of the angelic hostabove. {AG 75.4}
Chap. 68 - Centre of Worship
I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thyloving-kindness and for thy truth. Ps. 138:2. {AG 76.1}
The bright and cheerful side of our religion will be represented by all whoare daily consecrated to God. . . . While we review, not the dark chapters inour experience, but the manifestations of God's great mercy and unfailing love,we shall praise far more than complain. We shall talk of the loving faithfulnessof God as the true, tender, compassionate shepherd of His flock, which He hasdeclared that none shall pluck out of His hand. The language of the heart willnot be selfish murmuring and repining. Praise, like clear-flowing streams, willcome from God's truly believing ones. . . . {AG 76.2}
The temple of God is opened in heaven, and the threshold is flushed with theglory of God which is for every church that will love God and keep Hiscommandments. We need to study, to meditate, and to pray. Then we shall havespiritual eyesight to discern the inner courts of the celestial temple. We shallcatch the themes of song and thanksgiving of the heavenly choir round about thethrone. When Zion shall arise and shine, her light will be most penetrating, andprecious songs of praise and thanksgiving will be heard in the assemblies of thesaints. Murmuring and complaining over little disappointments and difficultieswill cease. . . . We shall see our Advocate offering up the incense of His ownmerits in our behalf. . . . {AG 76.3}
God teaches that we should assemble in His house to cultivate the attributesof perfect love. This will fit the dwellers of earth for the mansions thatChrist has gone to prepare for all who love Him. There they will assemble in thesanctuary from Sabbath to Sabbath, from one new moon to another, to unite inloftiest strains of song, in praise and thanksgiving to Him who sits upon thethrone, and to the Lamb for ever and ever. {AG 76.4}
Our God, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, declares: "Whoso offerethpraise glorifieth me" (Ps. 50:23). All heaven unite in praising God. Let uslearn the song of the angels now, that we may sing it when we join their shiningranks. Let us say with the psalmist: "While I live will I praise the Lord: Iwill sing praises unto my God while I have any being" (Ps. 146:2). {AG 76.5}
Chap. 69 - Source of Compassion and Mercy
Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is aright sceptre. Ps. 45:6. {AG 77.1}
Though now He has ascended to the presence of God, and shares the throne ofthe universe, Jesus has lost none of His compassionate nature. Today, the sametender, sympathizing heart is open to all the woes of humanity. Today the handthat was pierced is reached forth to bless more abundantly His people that arein the world. . . . {AG 77.2}
Through all our trials we have a never-failing Helper. He does not leave usalone to struggle with temptation, to battle with evil, and be finally crushedwith burdens and sorrow. Though now He is hidden from mortal sight, the ear offaith can hear His voice saying, Fear not; I am with you. "I am he that liveth,and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore" (Rev. 1:18). {AG 77.3}
Those who put away iniquity from their hearts and stretch out their hands inearnest supplication unto God will have that help which God alone can give them.A ransom has been paid for the souls of men, that they may have an opportunityto escape from the thralldom of sin and obtain pardon, purity, and heaven. . . .Those who frequent the throne of grace, offering up sincere, earnest petitionsfor divine wisdom and power, will not fail to become active, useful servants ofChrist. They may not possess great talents, but with humility of heart and firmreliance upon Jesus they may do a good work in bringing souls to Christ. . . .{AG 77.4}
Thousands have a false conception of God and His attributes. . . . God is aGod of truth. Justice and mercy are the attributes of His throne. He is a God oflove, of pity and tender compassion. Thus He is represented in His Son, ourSaviour. He is a God of patience and long-suffering. If such is the being whomwe adore and to whose character we are seeking to assimilate, we are worshippingthe true God. {AG 77.5}
If we are following Christ, His merits, imputed to us, come up before theFather as sweet odour. And the graces of our Saviour's character, implanted inour hearts, will shed around us a precious fragrance. {AG 77.6}
Chap. 70 - A Sympathizing High Priest
Thou hast maintained my right and my cause; thou satest in the throne judgingright. Ps. 9:4. {AG 78.1}
We do not understand the greatness and majesty of God nor remember theimmeasurable distance between the Creator and the creatures formed by His hand.He who sitteth in the heavens, swaying the sceptre of the universe, does notjudge according to our finite standard, nor reckon according to our computation.We are in error if we think that that which is great to us must be great to God,and that that which is small to us must be small to Him. . . . {AG 78.2}
No sin is small in the sight of God. The sins which man is disposed to lookupon as small may be the very ones which God accounts as great crimes. Thedrunkard is despised and is told that his sin will exclude him from heaven,while pride, selfishness, and covetousness go unrebuked. But these are sins thatare especially offensive to God. . . . We need clear discernment, that we maymeasure sin by the Lord's standard. {AG 78.3}
Now, while probation lingers, it does not become one to pronounce sentenceupon others and look to himself as a model man. Christ is our model; imitateHim, plant your feet in His steps. You may professedly believe every point ofpresent truth, but unless you practice these truths it will avail you nothing.We are not to condemn others; this is not our work; but we should love oneanother and pray for one another. When we see one err from the truth, then wemay weep over him as Christ wept over Jerusalem. Let us see what our heavenlyFather in His word says about the erring: "If a man be overtaken in a fault, yewhich are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; consideringthyself, lest thou also be tempted" (Gal. 6:1). . . . {AG 78.4}
Jesus cares for each one as though there were not another individual on theface of the earth. As Deity He exerts mighty power in our behalf, while as ourElder Brother He feels for all our woes. The Majesty of heaven held not Himselfaloof from degraded, sinful humanity. We have not a high priest who is so high,so lifted up, that He cannot notice us or sympathize with us, but one who was inall points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. {AG 78.5}
Chap. 71 - Christ Shares His Father's Throne
The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thineenemies thy footstool. Ps. 110:1. {AG 79.1}
The love of the Father toward a fallen race is unfathomable, indescribable,without a parallel. This love led Him to consent to give His only begotten Sonto die, that rebellious man might be brought into harmony with the government ofHeaven, and be saved from the penalty of his transgression. The Son of Godstepped down from His royal throne, and for our sakes became poor, that wethrough His poverty might be rich. He became "a Man of sorrows," that we mightbe made partakers of everlasting joy. . . . God permitted His beloved Son, fullof grace and truth, to come from a world of indescribable glory to a worldmarred and blighted with sin, shadowed with the shadow of death and the curse.{AG 79.2}
Since Jesus came to dwell with us, we know that God is acquainted with ourtrials, and sympathizes with our griefs. Every son and daughter of Adam mayunderstand that our Creator is the friend of sinners. For in every doctrine ofgrace, every promise of joy, every deed of love, every divine attractionpresented in the Saviour's life on earth, we see "God with us" (Matt. 1:23). . .. {AG 79.3}
By His humanity, Christ touched humanity; by His divinity, He lays hold uponthe throne of God. As the Son of man, He gave us an example of obedience; as theSon of God, He gives us power to obey. . . . The Child of Bethlehem, the meekand lowly Saviour, is God "manifest in the flesh" (1 Tim. 3:16). . . . "God withus" is the surety of our deliverance from sin, the assurance of our power toobey the law of heaven. . . . {AG 79.4}
In taking our nature, the Saviour has bound Himself to humanity by a tie thatis never to be broken. Through the eternal ages He is linked with us. . . ."Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: . . ." (Isa. 9:6). God hasadopted human nature in the person of His Son, and has carried the same into thehighest heaven. It is the "Son of man" who shares the throne of the universe. .. . In Christ the family of earth and the family of heaven are bound together.Christ glorified is our brother. Heaven is enshrined in humanity, and humanityis enfolded in the bosom of Infinite Love. {AG 79.5}
Chap. 72 - God's Law is Linked with His Throne
Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. Ps.119:18. {AG 80.1}
God has given His holy law to man as His measure of character. By this lawyou may see and overcome every defect in your character. You may sever yourselffrom every idol, and link yourself to the throne of God by the golden chain ofgrace and truth. {AG 80.2}
The moral law was never a type or a shadow. It existed before man's creation,and will endure as long as God's throne remains. God could not change nor alterone precept of His law in order to save man; for the law is the foundation ofHis government. It is unchangeable, unalterable, infinite, and eternal. In orderfor man to be saved, and for the honour of the law to be maintained, it wasnecessary for the Son of God to offer Himself as a sacrifice for sin. He whoknew no sin became sin for us, He died for us on Calvary. His death shows thewonderful love of God for man, and the immutability of His law. . . . {AG 80.3}
The glory of Christ is revealed in the law, which is a transcript of Hischaracter, and His transforming efficacy is felt upon the soul until men becomechanged to His likeness. They are made partakers of the divine nature, and growmore and more like their Saviour, advancing step by step in conformity to thewill of God, till they reach perfection. {AG 80.4}
The law of God was not given to the Jews alone. It is of world-wide andperpetual obligation. . . . Its ten precepts are like a chain of ten links. Ifone is broken, the chain becomes worthless. Not a single precept can be revokedor changed to save the transgressor. {AG 80.5}
Christ designs that heaven's order, heaven's plan of government, heaven'sdivine harmony, shall be represented in His church on earth. Thus in His peopleHe is glorified. Through them the Sun of Righteousness will shine in undimmedlustre to the world. . . . The church, endowed with the righteousness of Christ,is His depositary, in which the riches of His mercy, His grace, and His love,are to appear in full and final display. Christ looks upon His people in theirpurity and perfection, as the reward of His humiliation, and the supplement ofHis glory--Christ, the great Centre, from whom radiates all glory. {AG 80.6}
Chap. 73 - Help in Resisting Temptation
Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee fromthe hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them thatdwell upon the earth. Rev. 3:10. {AG 81.1}
All heaven is interested in the work going on in this world, which is toprepare men and women for the future, immortal life. It is God's plan that humanagencies shall have the high honour of acting as co-workers with Jesus Christ inthe salvation of souls. . . . They should look upon the work of God as sacredand holy, and should bring to Him, every day, offerings of joy and gratitude, inreturn for the power of His grace, by which they are enabled to make advancementin the divine life. . . . {AG 81.2}
It is not necessary that anyone should yield to the temptations of Satan andthus violate his conscience and grieve the Holy Spirit. Every provision has beenmade in the Word of God whereby all may have divine help in their endeavours toovercome. {AG 81.3}
In the religious life of every soul who is finally victorious there will bescenes of terrible perplexity and trial; but his knowledge of the Scriptureswill enable him to bring to mind the encouraging promises of God, which willcomfort his heart and strengthen his faith in the power of the Mighty One. Hereads: . . . . "that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than ofgold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praiseand honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. . . "(1 Peter 1:7). Thetrial of faith is more precious than gold. All should learn that this is a partof the discipline in the school of Christ, which is essential to purify andrefine them from the dross of earthliness. . . . {AG 81.4}
Summon all your powers to look up, not down at your difficulties; then youwill never faint by the way. You will soon see Jesus behind the cloud, reachingout His hand to help you; and all you have to do is to give Him your hand insimple faith and let Him lead you. . . . A great name among men is as letterstraced in sand, but a spotless character will endure to all eternity. God givesyou intelligence and a reasoning mind, whereby you may grasp His promises; andJesus is ready to help you in forming a strong, symmetrical character. {AG 81.5}
Chap. 74 - Where Sins May Be Blotted Out
I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, andwill not remember thy sins. Isa. 43:25. {AG 82.1}
Some seem to feel that they must be on probation, and must prove to the Lordthat they are reformed, before they can claim His blessing. But they may claimthe blessing of God even now. They must have His grace, the spirit of Christ, tohelp their infirmities, or they cannot resist evil. Jesus loves to have us cometo Him just as we are, sinful, helpless, dependent. We may come with all ourweakness, our folly, our sinfulness, and fall at His feet in penitence. It isHis glory to encircle us in the arms of His love and to bind up our wounds, tocleanse us from all impurity. {AG 82.2}
Here is where thousands fail; they do not believe that Jesus pardons thempersonally, individually. They do not take God at His word. It is the privilegeof all who comply with the conditions to know for themselves that pardon isfreely extended for every sin. Put away the suspicion that God's promises arenot meant for you. They are for every repentant transgressor. Strength and gracehave been provided through Christ to be brought by ministering angels to everybelieving soul. None are so sinful that they cannot find strength, purity, andrighteousness in Jesus, who died for them. He is waiting to strip them of theirgarments stained and polluted with sin, and to put upon them the white robes ofrighteousness; He bids them live and not die. . . . {AG 82.3}
With the rich promises of the Bible before you, can you give place to doubt?Can you believe that when the poor sinner longs to return, longs to forsake hissins, the Lord sternly withholds him from coming to His feet in repentance? Awaywith such thoughts! Nothing can hurt your own soul more than to entertain such aconception of our heavenly Father. He hates sin, but He loves the sinner. . . .As you read the promises, remember they are the expression of unutterable loveand pity. The great heart of Infinite Love is drawn toward the sinner withboundless compassion. . . . He wants to restore His moral image in man. As youdraw near to Him with confession and repentance, He will draw near to you withmercy and forgiveness. {AG 82.4}
Chap. 75 - Where We Find Deliverance from Sin
Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us intothe kingdom of his dear Son: in whom we have redemption through his blood, eventhe forgiveness of sins. Col. 1:13, 14. {AG 83.1}
The Prince of heaven has placed man in an exalted position. His life has beenvalued at the cost of Calvary's cross. . . . From the depths of sin'sdegradation, we may be exalted to become heirs with Christ, the sons of God, andkings and priests unto the Most High. . . . {AG 83.2}
When Christ bowed on the banks of Jordan, after His baptism, the heavens,were opened, and the Spirit descended in the form of a dove, like burnishedgold, and encircled Him with its glory; and the voice of God from the highestheaven was heard, saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased"(Matt. 3:17). The prayer of Christ in man's behalf opened the gates of heaven,and the Father had responded, accepting the petition for the fallen race. Jesusprayed as our substitute and surety, and now the human family may find access tothe Father through the merits of His well-beloved Son. . . . Jesus is "the way,the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). The gate of heaven has been left ajar, andthe radiance from the throne of God shines into the hearts of those who loveHim. {AG 83.3}
The word that was spoken to Jesus at the Jordan. . . . embraces humanity. Godspoke to Jesus as our representative. With all our sins and weaknesses, we arenot cast aside as worthless. . . . The glory that rested upon Christ is a pledgeof the love of God for us. It tells us of the power of prayer--how the humanvoice may reach the ear of God, and our petition find acceptance in the courtsof heaven. By sin, earth was cut off from heaven, and alienated from itscommunion; but Jesus has connected it again with the sphere of glory. His lovehas encircled man, and reached the highest heaven. The light which fell from theopen portals upon the head of our Saviour will fall upon us as we pray for helpto resist temptation. The voice which spoke to Jesus says to every believingsoul, This is My beloved child, in whom I am well pleased. . . . Our Redeemerhas opened the way so that the most sinful, the most needy, . . . may findaccess to the Father. All may have a home in the mansions which Jesus has goneto prepare. {AG 83.4}
Chap. 76 - Accessible to All
In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Eph.3:12. {AG 84.1}
Many who are sincerely seeking for holiness of heart and purity of life seemperplexed and discouraged. . . . Darkness and discouragement will sometimes comeupon the soul and threaten to overwhelm us, but we should not cast away ourconfidence. We must keep the eye fixed on Jesus, feeling or no feeling. Weshould seek to faithfully perform every known duty, and then calmly rest in thepromises of God. {AG 84.2}
At times a deep sense of our unworthiness will send a thrill of terrorthrough the soul, but this is no evidence that God has changed toward us, or wetoward God. No effort should be made to rein the mind up to a certain intensityof emotion. We may not feel today the peace and joy which we felt yesterday; butwe should by faith grasp the hand of Christ, and trust Him as fully in thedarkness as in the light. {AG 84.3}
Satan may whisper, "You are too great a sinner for Christ to save." While youacknowledge that you are indeed sinful and unworthy, you may meet the tempterwith the cry, "By virtue of the atonement, I claim Christ as my Saviour. I trustnot to my own merits, but to the precious blood of Jesus, which cleanses me.This moment I hang my helpless soul on Christ." . . . {AG 84.4}
Be not discouraged because your heart seems hard. Every obstacle, everyinternal foe, only increases your need of Christ. He came to take away the heartof stone, and give you a heart of flesh. Look to Him for special grace toovercome your peculiar faults. When assailed by temptation, steadfastly resistthe evil promptings. . . . Cry to the dear Saviour for help to sacrifice everyidol and to put away every darling sin. Let the eye of faith see Jesus standingbefore the Father's throne, presenting His wounded hands as He pleads for you.Believe that strength comes to you through your precious Saviour. . . . {AG84.5}
If we would permit our minds to dwell more upon Christ and the heavenlyworld, we should find a powerful stimulus and support in fighting the battles ofthe Lord. . . . Beside the loveliness of Christ, all earthly attractions willseem of little worth. {AG 84.6}
Chap. 77 - Christ's Name Our Password
Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may beglorified in the Son. John 14:13. {AG 85.1}
Through Christ we may present our petitions at the throne of grace. ThroughHim, unworthy as we are, we may obtain all spiritual blessings. {AG 85.2}
Make your requests known to your Maker. Never is one repulsed who comes toHim with a contrite heart. Not one sincere prayer is lost. Amid the anthems ofthe celestial choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being. We pour outour heart's desire in our closets, we breathe a prayer as we walk by the way,and our words reach the throne of the Monarch of the universe. They may beinaudible to any human ear, but they cannot die away into silence, nor can theybe lost through the activities of business that are going on. Nothing can drownthe soul's desire. It rises above the din of the street, above the confusion ofthe multitude, to the heavenly courts. It is God to whom we are speaking, andour prayer is heard. {AG 85.3}
"Ask in my name," Christ says. . . . Christ is the connecting link betweenGod and man. He has promised His personal intercession. He places the wholevirtue of His righteousness on the side of the suppliant. He pleads for man, andman, in need of divine help, pleads for himself in the presence of God, usingthe influence of the One who gave His life for the life of the world. As weacknowledge before God our appreciation of Christ's merits, fragrance is givento our intercessions. As we approach God through the virtue of the Redeemer'smerits, Christ places us close by His side, encircling us with His human arm,while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. . . . {AG 85.4}
Yes, Christ has become the medium of prayer between man and God. He has alsobecome the medium of blessing between God and man. He has united divinity withhumanity. . . . {AG 85.5}
Pray, yes, pray with unshaken faith and trust. The Angel of the covenant,even our Lord Jesus Christ, is the Mediator who secures the acceptance of theprayers of His believing ones. {AG 85.6}
Chap. 78 - Prayers Like Fragrant Incense
Another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and therewas given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of allthe saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. Rev. 8:3. {AG86.1}
True prayer takes hold upon Omnipotence and gives us the victory. Upon hisknees the Christian obtains strength to resist temptation. . . . The silent,fervent prayer of the soul will rise like holy incense to the throne of graceand will be as acceptable to God as if offered in the sanctuary. To all who thusseek Him, Christ becomes a present help in time of need. They will be strong inthe day of trial. {AG 86.2}
It is a wonderful favour for any man in this life to be commended of God aswas Cornelius. And what was the ground of this approval?--"Thy prayers and thinealms are come up for a memorial before God" (Acts 10:4). {AG 86.3}
Neither prayer nor almsgiving has any virtue in itself to recommend thesinner to God; the grace of Christ, through His atoning sacrifice, can alonerenew the heart and make our service acceptable to God. This grace had movedupon the heart of Cornelius. The Spirit of Christ had spoken to his soul; Jesushad drawn him, and he had yielded to the drawing. His prayers and alms were noturged or extorted from him; they were not a price he was seeking to pay in orderto secure heaven; but they were the fruit of love and gratitude to God. {AG86.4}
Such prayer from a sincere heart ascends as incense before the Lord; andofferings to His cause and gifts to the needy and suffering are a sacrifice wellpleasing to Him. . . . {AG 86.5}
Prayer and almsgiving are closely linked together--the expression of love toGod and to our fellow men. They are the outworking of the two great principlesof the divine law,"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and withall thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength"; and, "Thoushalt love thy neighbour as thyself" (Mark 12:30, 31). Thus while our giftscannot recommend us to God or earn His favour, they are an evidence that we havereceived the grace of Christ. They are a test of the sincerity of our professionof love. {AG 86.6}
Chap. 79 - Press Your Case
I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely. Hosea 14:4. {AG 87.1}
I hope that none will obtain the idea that they are earning the favour of Godby confession of sins or that there is special virtue in confessing to humanbeings. . . . The Lord would have us come to Him daily with all our troubles andconfessions of sin, and He can give us rest. . . . {AG 87.2}
Confess your secret sins alone before your God. Acknowledge your heartwanderings to Him who knows perfectly how to treat your case. If you havewronged your neighbour, acknowledge to him your sin and show fruit of the sameby making restitution. Then claim the blessing. Come to God just as you are, andlet Him heal all your infirmities. Press your case to the throne of grace; letthe work be thorough. Be sincere in dealing with God and your own soul. If youcome to Him with a heart truly contrite, He will give you the victory. . . . Hewill not misapprehend or misjudge you. {AG 87.3}
Your fellow men cannot absolve you from sin or cleanse you from iniquity.Jesus is the only One who can give you peace. He loved you and gave Himself foryou. His great heart of love is "touched with the feeling of our infirmities"(Heb. 4:15). What sins are too great for Him to pardon? what soul too dark andsin-oppressed for Him to save? He is gracious, not looking for merit in us, butof His own boundless goodness healing our backslidings and loving us freely,while we are yet sinners. He is "slow to anger, and of great kindness" (Neh.9:17). {AG 87.4}
There is a remedy for the sin-sick soul. That remedy is in Jesus. PreciousSaviour! His grace is sufficient for the weakest; and the strongest must alsohave His grace or perish. {AG 87.5}
I saw how this grace could be obtained. Go to your closet and there aloneplead with God. "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spiritwithin me" (Ps. 51:10). Be in earnest, be sincere. Fervent prayer availeth much.Jacob-like, wrestle in prayer. Agonize. Jesus in the garden sweat great drops ofblood; you must make an effort. Do not leave your closet until you feel strongin God; then watch, and just as long as you watch and pray, you can keep theseevil besetments under, and the grace of God can, and will, appear in you. {AG87.6}
Chap. 80 - Elijah's Example
Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestlythat it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of threeyears and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and theearth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17, 18. {AG 88.1}
When upon Mount Carmel he [Elijah] offered the prayer for rain (1 Kings18:41-45), his faith was tested, but he persevered in making known his requestunto God. Six times he prayed earnestly, and yet there was no sign that hispetition was granted, but with a strong faith he urged his plea to the throne ofgrace. Had he given up in discouragement at the sixth time, his prayer would nothave been answered, but he persevered till the answer came. We have a God whoseear is not closed to our petitions; and if we prove His Word, He will honour ourfaith. He wants us to have all our interests interwoven with His interests, andthen He can safely bless us; for we shall not then take glory to self when theblessing is ours, but shall render all the praise to God. God does not alwaysanswer our prayers the first time we call upon Him; for should He do this, wemight take it for granted that we had a right to all the blessings and favoursHe bestowed upon us. Instead of searching our hearts to see if any evil wasentertained by us, any sin indulged, we should become careless, and fail torecognize our dependence upon Him, and our need of His help. {AG 88.2}
The servant watched while Elijah prayed. Six times he returned from thewatch, saying, There is nothing, no cloud, no sign of rain. But the prophet didnot give up in discouragement . . . . As he searched his heart, he seemed to beless and less, both in his own estimation and in the sight of God. . . . Andwhen he reached the point of renouncing self, while he clung to the Saviour ashis only strength and righteousness, the answer came. The servant appeared, andsaid, "Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea, like a man's hand."{AG 88.3}
Elijah did not wait for the heavens to gather blackness. In that small cloud,he beheld by faith an abundance of rain; and he acted in harmony with his faith.. . . Faith such as this is needed in the world today--faith that will lay holdon the promises of God's word, and refuse to let go until Heaven hears. {AG88.4}
Chap. 81 - When Affliction Comes
When he was in affliction, he besought the Lord his God, and humbled himselfgreatly before the God of his fathers. 2 Chron. 33:12. {AG 89.1}
"In the world ye shall have tribulation" (John 16:33), says Christ; but in Meye shall have peace. The trials to which Christians are subjected in sorrow,adversity, and reproach are the means appointed of God to separate the chafffrom the wheat. Our pride, selfishness, evil passions, and love of worldlypleasure must all be overcome; therefore God sends us afflictions to test andprove us, and show us that these evils exist in our characters. We must overcomethrough His strength and grace, that we may be partakers of the divine nature,having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. "For our lightaffliction," says Paul, "which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far moreexceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which areseen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen aretemporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal" (2 Cor. 4:17, 18).Afflictions, crosses, temptations, adversity, and our varied trials are God'sworkmen to refine us, sanctify us, and fit us for the heavenly garner. {AG 89.2}
Many of your afflictions have been visited upon you, in the wisdom of God, tobring you closer to the throne of grace. He softens and subdues His children bysorrows and trials. This world is God's workshop, where He fashions us for thecourts of heaven. He uses the planing knife upon our quivering hearts until theroughness and irregularities are removed and we are fitted for our proper placesin the heavenly building. Through tribulation and distress the Christian becomespurified and strengthened, and develops a character after the model that Christhas given. {AG 89.3}
Let the afflictions which pain us so grievously become instructive lessons,teaching us to press forward toward the mark of the prize of our high calling inChrist. Let us be encouraged by the thought that the Lord is soon to come. Letthis hope gladden our hearts. {AG 89.4}
Chap. 82 - Sharing Christ's Suffering
Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when hisglory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4:13.{AG 90.1}
To have strength we must have exercise. To have strong faith, we must beplaced in circumstances where our faith will be exercised. . . . It is throughmuch tribulation that we are to enter the kingdom of God. Our Saviour was triedin every possible way, and yet He triumphed in God continually. It is ourprivilege to be strong in the strength of God under all circumstances and toglory in the cross of Christ. {AG 90.2}
In this life we must meet fiery trials and make costly sacrifices, but thepeace of Christ is the reward. There has been so little self-denial, so littlesuffering for Christ's sake, that the cross is almost entirely forgotten. Wemust be partakers with Christ of His sufferings if we would sit down in triumphwith Him on His throne. {AG 90.3}
Heaven is very near those who suffer for righteousness' sake. Christidentifies His interests with the interests of His faithful people; He suffersin the person of His saints, and whoever touches His chosen ones touches Him.The power that is near to deliver from physical harm or distress is also near tosave from the greater evil, making it possible for the servant of God tomaintain his integrity under all circumstances, and to triumph through divinegrace. {AG 90.4}
Persecution should bring joy to the disciples of Christ, for it is anevidence that they are following in the steps of their Master. {AG 90.5}
While the Lord has not promised His people exemption from trials, He haspromised that which is far better. He has said, "As thy days, so shall thystrength be" (Deut. 33:25). "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength ismade perfect in weakness" (2 Cor. 12:9). If you are called to go through thefiery furnace for His sake, Jesus will be by your side even as He was with thefaithful three in Babylon. Those who love their Redeemer will rejoice at everyopportunity of sharing with Him humiliation and reproach. The love they beartheir Lord makes suffering for His sake sweet. {AG 90.6}
Chap. 83 - Come with Reverence
Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence andgodly fear. Heb. 12:28. {AG 91.1}
There should be an intelligent knowledge of how to come to God in reverenceand godly fear with devotional love. There is a growing lack of reverence forour Maker, a growing disregard of His greatness and His majesty. But God isspeaking to us in these last days. We hear His voice in the storm, in therolling thunder. We hear of calamities He permits in the earthquakes, thebreaking forth of waters, and the destructive elements sweeping all before them.{AG 91.2}
In these perilous times, those who profess to be God's commandment-keepingpeople should guard against the tendency to lose the spirit of reverence andgodly fear. The Scriptures teach men how to approach their Maker--with humilityand awe, through faith in a divine Mediator. Let man come on bended knee, as asubject of grace, a suppliant at the footstool of mercy. Thus he is to testifythat the whole soul, body, and spirit are in subjection to his Creator. {AG91.3}
Both in public and in private worship, it is our duty [THERE ARE INSTANCESWHERE ELLEN WHITE STOOD AT THE DESK WHILE OFFERING PRAYERS OF CONSECRATIONDURING CHURCH SERVICES.] to bow upon our knees before God when we offer ourpetitions to Him. Jesus, our example, "kneeled down, and prayed." And of Hisdisciples it is recorded that they, too, "kneeled down, and prayed." Stephen"kneeled." Paul declared: "I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord JesusChrist" (Eph. 3:14). In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt.Daniel "kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanksbefore his God" (Dan. 6:10). And the invitation of the psalmist is: "O come, letus worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker" (Ps. 95:6). {AG91.4}
"What doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, towalk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with allthy heart and with all thy soul?" (Deut. 10:12). . . . "The eye of the Lord isupon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy" (Ps. 33:18). "Byhumility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life" (Prov.22:4). {AG 91.5}
Chap. 84 - Come in Humility and Holy Fear
God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had inreverence of all them that are about him. Ps. 89:7. {AG 92.1}
Humility and reverence should characterize the deportment of all who comeinto the presence of God. In the name of Jesus we may come before Him withconfidence, but we must not approach Him with the boldness of presumption, asthough He were on a level with ourselves. There are those who address the greatand all-powerful and holy God, who dwelleth in light unapproachable, as theywould address an equal, or even an inferior. There are those who conductthemselves in His house as they would not presume to do in the audience-chamberof an earthly ruler. These should remember that they are in His sight whomseraphim adore, before whom angels veil their faces. God is greatly to bereverenced; all who truly realize His presence will bow in humility before Him.{AG 92.2}
Some think it a mark of humility to pray to God in a common manner, as iftalking with a human being. They profane His name by needlessly and irreverentlymingling with their prayers the words, "God Almighty"--awful, sacred words,which should never pass the lips except in subdued tones and with a feeling ofawe. . . . {AG 92.3}
It is the heartfelt prayer of faith that is heard in heaven and answered onearth. God understands the needs of humanity. He knows what we desire before weask Him. He sees the soul's conflict with doubt and temptation. He marks thesincerity of the suppliant. He will accept the humiliation and affliction of thesoul. "To this man will I look," He declares, "even to him that is poor and of acontrite spirit, and trembleth at my word." {AG 92.4}
It is our privilege to pray with confidence, the Spirit inditing ourpetitions. With simplicity we should state our needs to the Lord, and claim Hispromise. . . . {AG 92.5}
Our prayers should be full of tenderness and love. When we yearn for adeeper, broader realization of the Saviour's love, we shall cry to God for morewisdom. If ever there was a need of soul-stirring prayers and sermons, it isnow. The end of all things is at hand. O that we could see as we should thenecessity of seeking the Lord with all the heart! Then we should find Him. MayGod teach His people how to pray. {AG 92.6}
Chap. 85 - A Sacred Experience
Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world standin awe of him. Ps. 33:8. {AG 93.1}
Holy angels have been displeased and disgusted with the irreverent manner inwhich many have used the name of God, the great Jehovah. Angels mention thatsacred name with the greatest awe, ever veiling their faces when they speak thename of God; and the name of Christ is so sacred to them that they speak it withthe greatest reverence. {AG 93.2}
True reverence for God is inspired by a sense of His infinite greatness and arealization of His presence. With this sense of the Unseen, every heart shouldbe deeply impressed. The hour and place of prayer are sacred, because God isthere. And as reverence is manifested in attitude and demeanor, the feeling thatinspires it will be deepened. "Holy and reverend is his name," the psalmistdeclares. Angels, when they speak that name, veil their faces. With whatreverence, then, should we, who are fallen and sinful, take it upon our lips!{AG 93.3}
Well would it be for young and old to study and ponder and often repeat thosewords of Holy Writ that show how the place marked by God's special presenceshould be regarded. "Put off thy shoes from off thy feet," He commanded Moses atthe burning bush; "for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground" (Ex.3:5). Jacob, after beholding the vision of the angels, exclaimed, "The Lord isin this place; and I knew it not. . . . This is none other but the house of God,and this is the gate of heaven" (Gen. 28:16, 17). "The Lord is in his holytemple: let all the earth keep silence before him" (Hab. 2:20).
"The Lord is a great God,
And a great King above all gods. . . .
O come, let us worship and bow down:
Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker."
"It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving,
And into his courts with praise:
Be thankful unto him, and bless his name."
(Ps. 95:3-6; 100:3, 4). {AG 93.4}
Chap. 86 - A Hallowed Name
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Matt. 6:9. {AG 94.1}
To hallow the name of the Lord requires that the words in which we speak ofthe Supreme Being be uttered with reverence. "Holy and reverend is his name"(Ps. 111:9). We are never in any manner to treat lightly the titles orappellations of the Deity. In prayer we enter the audience chamber of the MostHigh; and we should come before Him with holy awe. The angels veil their facesin His presence. The cherubim and the bright and holy seraphim approach Histhrone with solemn reverence. How much more should we, finite, sinful beings,come in a reverent manner before the Lord, our Maker! {AG 94.2}
But to hallow the name of the Lord means much more than this. We may, likethe Jews in Christ's day, manifest the greatest outward reverence for God, andyet profane His name continually. "The name of the Lord" is "merciful andgracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, . . . forgivinginiquity and transgression and sin" (Ex. 34:5-7). Of the church of Christ it iswritten, "This is the name wherewith she shall be called, The Lord ourRighteousness" (Jer. 33:16). This name is put upon every follower of Christ. Itis the heritage of the child of God. The family are called after the Father. Theprophet Jeremiah, in the time of Israel's sore distress and tribulation, prayed,"We are called by thy name; leave us not" (Jer. 14:9). {AG 94.3}
This name is hallowed by the angels of heaven, by the inhabitants of unfallenworlds. When you pray, "Hallowed be thy name," you ask that it may be hallowedin this world, hallowed in you. God has acknowledged you before men and angelsas His child; pray that you may do no dishonour to the "worthy name by which yeare called" (James 2:7). God sends you into the world as His representatives. Inevery act of life you are to make manifest the name of God. This petition callsupon you to possess His character. You cannot hallow His name, you cannotrepresent Him to the world, unless in life and character you represent the verylife and character of God. This you can do only through the acceptance of thegrace and righteousness of Christ. {AG 94.4}
Chap. 87 - Our Continual Dependence
The Lord sitteth King for ever. The Lord will give strength unto his people.Ps. 29:10, 11. {AG 95.1}
The throne of grace is to be our continual dependence. . . . There isstrength for us in Christ. He is our Advocate before the Father. He dispatchesHis messengers to every part of His dominion to communicate His will to Hispeople. He walks in the midst of His churches. He desires to sanctify, elevate,and ennoble His followers. The influence of those who truly believe in Him willbe a savour of life in the world. He holds the stars in His right hand, and itis His purpose to let His light shine through these to the world. Thus Hedesires to prepare His people for higher service in the church above. He hasgiven us a great work to do. Let us do it with accuracy and determination. Letus show in our lives what the truth has done for us. {AG 95.2}
"Who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks" (Rev. 2:1). ThisScripture shows Christ's relation to the churches. He walks in the midst of Hischurches throughout the length and breadth of the earth. He watches them withintense interest to see whether they are in such a condition spiritually thatthey can advance His kingdom. Christ is present in every assembly of the church.He is acquainted with everyone connected with His service. He knows those whosehearts He can fill with the holy oil, that they may impart it to others. Thosewho faithfully carry forward the work of Christ in our world, representing inword and works the character of God, fulfilling the Lord's purpose for them, arein His sight very precious. Christ takes pleasure in them as a man takespleasure in a well-kept garden and the fragrance of the flowers he has planted.{AG 95.3}
No candlestick, no church, shines of itself. From Christ emanates all itslight. The church in heaven today is only the complement of the church on earth;but it is higher, grander-- perfect. The same divine illumination is to continuethrough eternal ages. The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the light thereof.No church can have light if it fails to diffuse the glory it receives from thethrone of God. {AG 95.4}
Chap. 88 - A Throne in Every Heart
That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith. Eph. 3:17. {AG 96.1}
God has bought us, and He claims a throne in each heart. Our minds and bodiesmust be subordinated to Him, and the natural habits and appetites must be madesubservient to the higher wants of the soul. But we can place no dependence uponourselves in this work. We cannot with safety follow our own guidance. The HolySpirit must renew and sanctify us. In God's service there must be no halfwaywork. {AG 96.2}
When the heart is cleansed from sin, Christ is placed on the throne thatself-indulgence and love of earthly treasure once occupied. The image of Christis seen in the expression of the countenance. The work of sanctification iscarried forward in the soul. Self-righteousness is banished. There is seen theputting on of the new man, which after Christ is created in righteousness andtrue holiness. {AG 96.3}
"But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord,are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of theLord" (2 Cor. 3:18). Beholding Christ means studying His life as given in HisWord. We are to dig for truth as for hidden treasure. We are to fix our eyesupon Christ. When we take Him as our personal Saviour, this gives us boldness toapproach the throne of grace. By beholding we become changed, morallyassimilated to the One who is perfect in character. By receiving His imputedrighteousness, through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, we become likeHim. The image of Christ is cherished, and it captivates the whole being. {AG96.4}
The upward progress of the soul indicates that Jesus bears rule in the heart.That heart through which He diffuses His peace and joy, and the blessed fruitsof His love, becomes His temple and His throne. "Ye are my friends," saysChrist, "if ye do whatsoever I command you" (John 15:14). {AG 96.5}
Give to God the most precious offering that it is possible for you to make;give Him your heart. {AG 96.6}
Chap. 89 - Undivided Occupancy
They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections andlusts. Gal. 5:24. {AG 97.1}
We are commanded to crucify the flesh, with the affections and lusts. Howshall we do it? Shall we inflict pain on the body? No; but put to death thetemptation to sin. The corrupt thought is to be expelled. Every thought is to bebrought into captivity to Jesus Christ. . . . The love of God must reignsupreme; Christ must occupy an undivided throne. Our bodies are to be regardedas His purchased possession. The members of the body are to become theinstruments of righteousness. {AG 97.2}
There are two kingdoms in this world, the kingdom of Christ and the kingdomof Satan. To one of these kingdoms each one of us belongs. In His wonderfulprayer for His disciples, Christ said, "I pray not that thou shouldest take themout of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are notof the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth:thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sentthem into the world" (John 17:15-18). {AG 97.3}
It is not God's will that we should seclude ourselves from the world. Butwhile in the world we should sanctify ourselves to God. We should not patternafter the world. We are to be in the world, as a corrective influence, as saltthat retains its savour. Among an unholy, impure, idolatrous generation, we areto be pure and holy, showing that the grace of Christ has power to restore inman the divine likeness. We are to exert a saving influence upon the world. . .. {AG 97.4}
The world has become a lazar house of sin, a mass of corruption. . . . We arenot to practice its ways or follow its customs. Continually we are to resist itslax principles. . . . {AG 97.5}
The blessing of grace is given to men that the heavenly universe and thefallen world may see as they could not otherwise, the perfection of Christ'scharacter. The Great Physician came to our world to show men and women thatthrough His grace they may so live that in the great day of God they can receivethe precious testimony, "Ye are complete in him" (Col. 2:10). {AG 97.6}
Chap. 90 - Even for Ever
Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon thethrone of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it withjudgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. Isa. 9:7. {AG 98.1}
In this life we can only begin to understand the wonderful theme ofredemption. With our finite comprehension we may consider most earnestly theshame and the glory, the life and the death, the justice and the mercy, thatmeet in the cross; yet with the utmost stretch of our mental powers we fail tograsp its full significance. The length and the breadth, the depth and theheight, of redeeming love are but dimly comprehended. The plan of redemptionwill not be fully understood, even when the ransomed see as they are seen andknow as they are known; but through the eternal ages, new truth will continuallyunfold to the wondering and delighted mind. Though the griefs and pains andtemptations of earth are ended, and the cause removed, the people of God willever have a distinct, intelligent knowledge of what their salvation has cost.{AG 98.2}
The cross of Christ will be the science and the song of the redeemed throughall eternity. In Christ glorified they will behold Christ crucified. Never willit be forgotten that He whose power created and upheld the unnumbered worldsthrough the vast realms of space--the Beloved of God, the Majesty of heaven, Hewhom cherub and shining seraph delighted to adore--humbled Himself to upliftfallen man; that He bore the guilt and shame of sin, and the hiding of HisFather's face, till the woes of a lost world broke His heart, and crushed outHis life on Calvary's cross. That the Maker of all worlds, the Arbiter of alldestinies, should lay aside His glory and humiliate Himself from love to manwill ever excite the wonder and adoration of the universe. As the nations of thesaved look upon their Redeemer and behold the eternal glory of the Fathershining in His countenance; as they behold His throne, which is from everlastingto everlasting, and know that His kingdom is to have no end, they break forth inrapturous song: "Worthy, worthy, is the Lamb that was slain, and hath redeemedus to God, by His own most precious blood!" {AG 98.3}