Some Important Personal Questions

What am I?

 

Am I a Christian, or am I not?

Is my heart renewed?

Has the transforming grace of God moulded my character?

Are my sins repented of? Are they confessed? Are they forgiven?

 

Am I one with Christ as He is one with the Father?

 

Do I hate what I once loved? Do I now love what I once hated?

 

Do I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus?

 

Do I feel I am the purchased possession of Jesus Christ, and that every hour I must consecrate myself to His service?

SpTA01b 37

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.

2 Corinthians 13:5

Under The Cover Of Darkness

John 3:1-15

Nicodemus was being drawn to Christ. As the Saviour explained to him concerning the new birth, he longed to have this change wrought in himself. By what means could it be accomplished? Jesus answered the unspoken question: “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”…The symbol of the uplifted serpent made plain to him the Saviour's mission. When the people of Israel were dying from the sting of the fiery serpents, God directed Moses to make a serpent of brass, and place it on high in the midst of the congregation. Then the word was sounded throughout the encampment that all who would look upon the serpent should live. The people well knew that in itself the serpent had no power to help them. It was a symbol of Christ…Whether for the healing of their wounds or the pardon of their sins, they could do nothing for themselves but show their faith in the Gift of God. They were to look and live…To refuse to look was to perish. 

Not through controversy and discussion is the soul enlightened. We must look and live. 

Nicodemus received the lesson, and carried it with him. He searched the Scriptures in a new way, not for the discussion of a theory, but in order to receive life for the soul. He began to see the kingdom of heaven as he submitted himself to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

There are thousands today who need to learn the same truth that was taught to Nicodemus by the uplifted serpent…Like Nicodemus, we must be willing to enter into life in the same way as the chief of sinners. Than Christ, “there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12…

In the interview with Nicodemus, Jesus unfolded the plan of salvation, and His mission to the world…Nicodemus hid the truth in his heart, and for three years there was little apparent fruit. But Jesus was acquainted with the soil into which He cast the seed. The words spoken at night to one listener in the lonely mountain were not lost…When at last Jesus was lifted up on the cross, Nicodemus remembered the teaching upon Olivet: “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” The light from that secret interview illumined the cross upon Calvary, and Nicodemus saw in Jesus the world's Redeemer.

After the Lord's ascension, when the disciples were scattered by persecution, Nicodemus came boldly to the front…He was scorned and persecuted by those who had paid him reverence in other days. He became poor in this world's goods; yet he faltered not in the faith which had its beginning in that night conference with Jesus…The truths there taught are as important today as they were on that solemn night in the shadowy mountain, when the Jewish ruler came to learn the way of life from the lowly Teacher of Galilee. DA 174-177

Invincible?

When we have been stung by the “sting of death”, sin, our minds are changed. We even begin to think we are invincible, that we are independent, and as Christians we can do anything, believe anything that appeals, and that everything that we believe and do is good, or even perfect and righteous. This independence instantly places us a very long way from our Creator’s plan, in fact, it is the complete opposite. The more that s-I-n is indulged in, the bolder the “I” in us becomes. Eventually it is strengthened even more by associating with others who have also been stung, “receiving honour one of another and comparing ourselves among ourselves”, it reaches the state where we can actually feel no apparent guilt, and a comfortable complacency sets in. This would be impossible to recover from if it were not for our Saviour’s redemptive ability as the only One who can lead us to repentance and save us from our sins. It is Christ’s ability to create that measures His power. The “everlasting gospel” tells us that the same power He used to speak worlds into existence, is now exerted for the salvation of men. He is God. The rightful place of Christ is set forth in order that His power to redeem might be better appreciated. Redemption is creation, the same power is used.

Commit the keeping of your soul to Him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. 1 Peter 4:19.

When Christ willingly subordinated Himself for our salvation and came to demonstrate the way we are to live, He was absolutely dependent on His Father, for everything, yes, even every thought, word, deed and place to go.

When we realise our desperate need to be freed from this frightening state, and choose to be absolutely dependent on Christ for everything, allowing Him to live His life in us, we can then truely rest in Him and recover from all of the many and varied affects of sin in our life. With His righteousness, we now no longer have to try to justify everything that we do, what a relief that is - we have His rest and can safely wait on Him to unfold each day, moment by moment.

As we then thoughtfully consider “the works of His hands” in all of His creation, we observe that everything is absolutely dependant on Him for all that they need. 

How could we ever have believed that we were the only exception to this rule in all of the universe? 

Who is it that gives us our next heartbeat? 

Such is this insidious, masterful deception of independence that has been so successfully sold to this world, even to  Christians, by “the enemy of souls”. This has been especially so, and with greater intensity, during these closing scenes, just before our Saviour comes again to take His faithful ones to Himself.

It is truely a complete salvation that Christ offers, by which He fully restores us back into “the image of God”, for eternity.

Absolute dependence on Christ, for everything!

Blessed be His Name.

Doctrine

And they were astonished at His doctrine: for He taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes. Mark 1:22

Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but His that sent Me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of Myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. John 7:16-18

Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ. Ephesians 4:13-15

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 2 Timothy 4:2-4

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. Titus 1:9

Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. 2 John 9-11

Drawn to Him

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me. John 12:32

Christ does not drive but draws men unto Him. The only compulsion which He employs is the constraint of love. When the church begins to seek for the support of secular power, it is evident that she is devoid of the power of Christ—the constraint of divine love. MB 126,127

The story of Christ's love will touch a chord in their hearts. Christ draws human beings to Himself with the cord which God has let down from heaven to save the race. The love of Christ can be measured only when this cord is measured. CH 534

Christ draws the sinner by the exhibition of His love upon the cross, and this softens the heart, impresses the mind, and inspires contrition and repentance in the soul. 6BC 1056

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…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. SC 27

Christ draws them to Himself by an unseen power. He is the light of life, and He imbues them with His own Spirit. As they are drawn into the spiritual atmosphere…By beholding Jesus, by obeying His requirements, they increase in the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. Thus they become changed into His image from character to character until they are distinguished from the world. AG 52

What Doth The LORD Require Of Thee?

And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, 

but to fear the Lord thy God, 

to walk in all His ways, 

and to love Him, 

and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, 

To keep the commandments of the Lord, and His statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? Deuteronomy 10:12,13

He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee,

but to do justly, 

and to love mercy, 

and to walk humbly with thy God?

Micah 6:8

Moses, A Type Of Christ

By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. Hebrews 11:24, 25.

While he was sitting under the very shadow of the throne, the Spirit of the Lord stirred his heart to lift the crushing weight that was pressing his brethren into the lowest degradation and slavery. His heart ached with sorrow, as if he himself were in slavery, laboring in the brick kiln, and sharing their degradation. They were slaves, suffering under the cruel lash. They were a reproach and a hissing to all the Egyptians, from Pharaoh down to the lowest serf. 

But the Lord had singled out Moses as the one to deliver the oppressed race, and by forty years of exile, under the discipline of God, he was prepared for the work. Understanding the evil disposition of his own countrymen, knowing how many would be perverse and unreasonable, understanding that they might betray him, he was yet considering ways and means to accomplish their deliverance, though supposing that he himself had forfeited all right to be the instrument. But God, in the bush which though burning was yet unconsumed by the fire, presented Himself, and selected Moses as His agent...Moses was accepted as a co-worker with God. He knew that scorn, hatred, persecution, and maybe death would be his portion if he should act any part in espousing the cause of the Hebrew captives...He had stood in great popularity as the general of Pharaoh’s armies, and he knew that now his name would be bandied round and falsified, but he esteemed “the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt” (Hebrews 11:26). He laid down the prospect of a kingly crown, and took up the burdens of his oppressed and afflicted people.

Moses was chosen of God to break the yoke of bondage upon the children of Israel, and...in his work he prefigured Christ’s first advent to break Satan’s power over the human family and deliver those who were made captives by his power. TMK 22

Moses was a type of Christ, the great Intercessor, whom the Father heareth always. How earnest he is as he pleads for God’s presence with him in his work. His experience has led him to place little confidence in human fidelity. His entreaties for the pledge of God’s presence with him during the remainder of the journey to Canaan prevailed. Ms 13, 1906

Today, God is preparing a people, like Moses, who are very concerned about their brethren in Israel, God’s denominated people, who are still in slavery to sin, when all the while Christ is waiting, ready and willing to deliver them from this bondage. This unique group are being raised up to give the final demonstration of what Christ, the Deliverer from sin, can accomplish in and through anyone who is absolutely dependent on Him -

Entering the temple, the one hundred and forty-four thousand sing a new song before the throne and before the four beasts and before the four and twenty elders. Song, with the redeemed, is not only the repetition of words, but the pouring forth of the inmost soul. Only he who knows of soul-development can tune his voice to the melody of heaven. And of all the choirs which make heaven’s arches ring, none compare with the music which issues from this little company. No other voice can join their song. Heaven is silent as they lift their voices, and tell the story of their redemption. Their song is called the song of Moses and the Lamb. SSP 252

A Relative’s Wedding Invitation

John 2:1-11

It was to honor Mary's trust, and to strengthen the faith of His disciples, that the first miracle was performed…

The gift of Christ to the marriage feast was a symbol. The water represented baptism into His death; the wine, the shedding of His blood for the sins of the world. The water to fill the jars was brought by human hands, but the word of Christ alone could impart to it life-giving virtue. So with the rites which point to the Saviour's death. It is only by the power of Christ, working through faith, that they have efficacy to nourish the soul.

The word of Christ supplied ample provision for the feast. So abundant is the provision of His grace to blot out the iniquities of men, and to renew and sustain the soul.

At the first feast He attended with His disciples, Jesus gave them the cup that symbolized His work for their salvation. At the last supper He gave it again, in the institution of that sacred rite by which His death was to be shown forth “till He come.” 1 Corinthians 11:26. And the sorrow of the disciples at parting from their Lord was comforted with the promise of reunion, as He said, “I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.” Matthew 26:29.

The wine which Christ provided for the feast, and that which He gave to the disciples as a symbol of His own blood, was the pure juice of the grape…The unfermented wine which He provided for the wedding guests was a wholesome and refreshing drink…

In both the Old and the New Testament, the marriage relation is employed to represent the tender and sacred union that exists between Christ and His people. To the mind of Jesus the gladness of the wedding festivities pointed forward to the rejoicing of that day when He shall bring home His bride to the Father's house, and the redeemed with the Redeemer shall sit down to the marriage supper of the Lamb.  DA 147-151

The Final Church

The final church in the Christian Era will have, running at the same time, all of the positive and negative characteristics of all of the previous six churches, and then unique problems of their own. The final remnant of the final church will have avoided all of the negative pitfalls and receive all of the rewards for faithfulness that are recorded in the seven and will be translated at the coming of Christ, without using the crutch of death to close their probation. They will also have to live without a Mediator in the Heavenly Sanctuary during the darkest hours of this world’s history. How they live then will be exactly the same as they have lived every day prior; with absolute trust in, and dependance on, Christ.

I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.

And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks One like unto the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and His hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and His eyes were as a flame of fire; And His feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and His voice as the sound of many waters. And He had in His right hand seven stars: and out of His mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and His countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. And He laid His right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in My right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.

Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; 

I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the First and the Last, which was dead, and is alive; 

I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith He which hath the sharp sword with two edges; 

I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast My name, and hast not denied My faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath His eyes like unto a flame of fire, and His feet are like fine brass; 

I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce My servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am He which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.

But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth My works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of My Father. And I will give him the morning star.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; 

I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith He that is holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David, He that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; 

I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My word, and hast not denied My name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of My patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from My God: and I will write upon him My new name.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God; 

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

You can avoid all of the negative aspects as He abides and lives in you and He has called you to be one of this faithful and triumphant remnant who will receive all of the positive rewards!

Choose You This Day Whom Ye Will Serve

Just before his death, Joshua called the children of Israel together, and said to them, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” The choice that Israel was that day called to make is one that today all are called to make; for there are still rival powers in the world. Let us consider the character of the powers that claim the homage of men.

Christ, the Commander of the heavenly hosts, left the honor and glory that He had with the Father, and came to this world to live as a man among men, that He might rescue human beings from destruction. He might have come attended by ten thousand times ten thousand angels; but this He did not do. He came in lowliness and poverty, without honor or rank. He humbled Himself, taking the nature of the fallen race. He came to help the needy and the distressed; to heal the sick; to speak peace to the suffering; to deliver those whom Satan was afflicting; to bring redemption to all who would accept the Heaven-sent blessing. Such is the character of Him who says, “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” 

There is another who claims the homage of men, but very different is he from the Prince of life. He was once a covering cherub in the heavenly courts, and of him it is written, “Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty.” But envy entered his heart, and he was cast out of heaven. His work is now the destruction of the children of men; the ruin of souls is his delight, and his only employment. His step is noiseless, his movements are stealthy, his batteries are masked. He has so concealed himself from view that many can hardly believe that he exists, much less can they be convinced of his amazing malignity, activity, and power. If he were to show himself openly, in his true character, he would arouse the Christian’s dormant energies, and send him to God in prayer. 

Under the enemy’s specious, bewitching influence, many obey the worst impulses of the human heart, and yet believe that God is leading them. Could their eyes be opened to distinguish their Captain, they would see that they are not serving God, but the enemy of all righteousness.
When Christ was in the world, the battle between Him and Satan was unceasing...But Jesus repulsed the enemy, and forced him to depart, a conquered foe. Today Satan comes with his temptations to the children of men, and here he has better success...When we least suspect his presence, he is gaining an advantage over us. I feel alarmed as I see so many yielding to his power, while they know it not. Did they but see their danger, they would flee to Christ, the sinner’s refuge. 

The tempter often whispers that the Christian life is one of exaction, of rigorous duty; that it is hard to be on the watch continually, that there is no need of being so particular. Thus he deceived Eve in Eden, telling her that God’s commands were arbitrary and unjust, given to prevent man from becoming free and exalted.
It is true that our Saviour represents His service as a yoke, and the Christian life is one of burden-bearing; yet contrasting these with the cruel power of Satan and the burdens imposed by sin, He exclaims, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” If we try to meet the responsibilities of the Christian life and to perform its duties, without Jesus as a helper, we shall find the yoke galling, and the burden intolerably heavy. But we are not asked to bear the burden alone. Christ will bear the burden of our care and sorrow. He invites us to cast all our care upon Him; for He carries us on His heart. He looks upon every soul who is turning his face toward Him as the Saviour. He knows by experience what are the weaknesses of humanity, what are our needs, and where lies the strength of our temptations; for He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 

True happiness is found, not in self-indulgence and self-pleasing, but in learning of Christ. Those who trust to their own wisdom and follow their own way complain at every step. But those who take Christ at His word, and surrender the soul to His keeping, their lives to His ordering, will find peace and quietude. Nothing of the world can make them sad when Jesus makes them glad by His presence. The Lord says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee; because he trusteth in Thee.” 

Those who choose Christ as their leader, grow daily more like Him. “Strengthened with all might by His Spirit,” they form characters that will win for them entrance into the holy city.
We now have the opportunity of deciding whether we shall be numbered with the servants of Christ or the servants of Satan. Day by day, in word and act, we show what choice we are making. Shall we not decide as did Joshua, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord?” ST January 13, 1904 

Christ’s Way To Perfect Health

The following brief summary of the God given plan for your health, which is easily implemented and available to every person on the planet, will prove to be of enormous value to you and your family, not only at this time, but as a permanent lifestyle guide for you. There has been much research undertaken into these eight natural “doctors”, so, you will be easily able to search for more information on any or all of them, if you so desire.

This is the way Christ reintroduced His Biblical health plan to His church in the modern era: 

Pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, the use of water, trust in divine power—these are the true remedies. Every person should have a knowledge of nature's remedial agencies and how to apply them. MH 127

DR HEALTH:

Diet: The Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy promote the totally vegetarian diet of — fruits, grains, nuts and vegetables — which was the diet originally given by the Creator. This diet provides protection from disease and also ensures optimal physical and intellectual strength. Not only is the quality of what we eat important but also how we eat it, how much we eat and at what times i.e. time, type and amount. 

Rest: Adequate nightly rest prepares us for the next day as well as allowing our body time to repair. Christ gave us the Sabbath, a weekly reminder of how He would like us to rest in Him every moment of every day.

H2O: Our body is approximately 70% water. Internally we need a minimum of 6-8 glasses/day (A guide for quantity of water needed/day/person = Weight in kg x 2.2 x 17ml). Externally, water is used not only for washing regularly but also for hydrotherapy to fight & treat disease and for rapid recovery from injury when used in its liquid, vapour (steam) and solid (ice) forms. 

Exercise: Regularly in fresh air to promote circulation and all body functions. The best form is useful manual labour. Brisk walking can also be very beneficial.

Air: Deep breathing rejuvenates all cells and is essential for the cardio-vascular system. It assists the lungs in fighting off infection & can also be helpful for relaxation from stress. 

Light from the Sun: Safe sun exposure is important for both maintenance of good health and as a remedy for illness. It helps to control our body weight, hormone levels and the manufacture of Vitamin D.

Trust in Divine Power: Knowing God's love for me personally, I can be perfectly content to trust to His will in every aspect of my life. His forgiveness removes guilt, which has a positive effect on the immune system. An attitude of gratitude and praise will assist in the fight against disease and infection. His righteousness brings health.

Harmony: A balanced, temperate lifestyle, free from all harmful substances, with moderation of  even the healthful, is required to both maintain health and to fight disease. 

Christ anointed the eyes of a blind man with clay and bade him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam....He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.” John 9:7. The cure could be wrought only by the power of the Great Healer, yet Christ made use of the simple agencies of nature….He sanctioned the use of simple and natural remedies. MH 233

It is very important to note at this stage, that only Christ, the Creator, can heal our illnesses of both body and mind. If attempted in our own strength, any relief will be superficial and short-lived at best. He has given the above remedies to assist in this work, but it is only the Name that is above every name, as He continually lives His life in and through us, that can bring true and lasting health.

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. 3 John 2

Mercy

And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. Exodus 34:6,7

To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against Him; Daniel 9:9

He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? Micah 6:8

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Matthew 5:7

Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. Luke 6:36

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering. Colossians 3:12

And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let us fall now into the hand of the Lord; for His mercies are great: and let me not fall into the hand of man. 2 Samuel 24:14

Yet Thou in Thy manifold mercies forsookest them not in the wilderness: the pillar of the cloud departed not from them by day, to lead them in the way; neither the pillar of fire by night, to shew them light, and the way wherein they should go. Nehemiah 9:19

Remember, O Lord, Thy tender mercies and Thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old. Psalms 25:6

I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the Lord, and the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which He hath bestowed on them according to His mercies, and according to the multitude of His lovingkindnesses. Isaiah 63:7

For His merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. Psalms 117:2

Go and proclaim these words toward the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the Lord; and I will not cause Mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, saith the Lord, and I will not keep anger for ever. Jeremiah 3:12

(For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) He will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which He sware unto them. Deuteronomy 4:31

It is of the Lord 's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22,23

Wherefore in all things it behoved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:17

But I will sing of Thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of Thy mercy in the morning: for Thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble. Psalms 59:16

Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Psalms 85:10

For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee..But Thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. Psalms 86:5,15

For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations. Psalms 100:5

Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever. Psalms 106:1

But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved.) Ephesians 2:4,5

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Titus 3:5

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 

1 Peter 1:3

Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Jude 21

Complacent?

In an attempt to have effective stewardship a Christian family decided to buy a quality, European vehicle. So good was it that they bought another one, and for 25 years these vehicles served perfectly, not requiring the replacement of any broken part, but only the usual tyres, batteries, oil, etc. In fact, the mechanic, who had been one of the leading technicians in the company and had just started his own business, stated that the engine in this model was the best motor that they had ever produced. It was a good choice and it was also evident that the vehicles at that stage were very reliable and being built to last. The company went on producing further models until one day, a few years later, a leading motoring journal ran their usual comparison of five vehicles from different manufacturers in the same class as the ones mentioned above. In summarising the performance of each vehicle, following the intensive tests, they wrote these words, concerning the company which had manufactured the above vehicles -

“_______’s once unassailable hold on the…executive class has fallen prey to complacency”.

Complacency - a feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements (Oxford Dict).

There is danger that in the Christian life we too can fall prey to this insidious, life-threatening, deceptive condition.

Many live for themselves alone. They look upon their lives with great complacency, flattering themselves that they are blameless, when in fact they are doing nothing for God and are living in direct opposition to His expressed word…A profession of Christ is not enough to enable one to stand the test of the day of judgment. There should be a perfect trust in God, a childlike dependence upon His promises, and an entire consecration to His will. 4T 18

The less you meditate upon Christ and His matchless love and the less you are assimilated to His image, the better will you appear in your own eyes, and the more self-confidence and self-complacency will you possess. A correct knowledge of Christ, a constant looking unto the Author and Finisher of our faith, will give you such a view of the character of a true Christian that you cannot fail to make a right estimate of your own life and character in contrast with those of the great Exemplar. You will then see your own weakness, your ignorance, your love of ease, and your unwillingness to deny self. 4T 375

Many who complacently listen to the truths from God's word are dead spiritually, while they profess to live. For years they have come and gone in our congregations, but they seem only less and less sensible of the value of revealed truth. They do not hunger and thirst after righteousness. They have no relish for spiritual or divine things. They assent to the truth, but are not sanctified through it. Neither the word of God nor the testimonies of His Spirit make any lasting impression upon them. Just according to the light, the privileges, and opportunities which they have slighted will be their condemnation. Many who preach the truth to others are themselves cherishing iniquity. The entreaties of the Spirit of God, like divine melody, the promises of His word so rich and abundant, its threatenings against idolatry and disobedience—all are powerless to melt the world-hardened heart. 5T 76

The Faithful and True Witness has the following loving words of warning to those of His alleged people who are caught up in this spiritually dangerous condition:

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne. Revelation 3:14-21