Daily Living

Walking with Jesus

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In a very confused and crooked world our beloved church is in the Omega of Apostasy. Dear brothers and sisters in the faith, many times in the Spirit of Prophecy and the Scriptures are references to the soon coming of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The evidence is now overwhelming that we are the final generation. As we look at Scripture referring to this hour of crisis, we are told of the awesome events.

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.” II Timothy 3:1–4.

This is a picture of the confusion that exists in our world—every television news broadcast and every headline of newspapers reveal the fulfillment of these Scriptures. There is confusion in the political world. There is also confusion in the financial world. We have seen some of the great leading institutions go bankrupt, and the government is doing everything it can to put business operations on a better foundation again.

“We are living in the time of the end. The fast-fulfilling signs of the times declare that the coming of Christ is near at hand. The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. Plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The calamities by land and sea, the unsettled state of society, the alarms of war, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude.

“The agencies of evil are combining their forces and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. Great changes are soon to take place in our world, and the final movements will be rapid ones.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 11.

“There are not many, even among educators and statesmen, who comprehend the causes that underlie the present state of society. Those who hold the reins of government are not able to solve the problem of moral corruption, poverty, pauperism, and increasing crime. They are struggling in vain to place business operations on a more secure basis. If men would give more heed to the teaching of God’s word, they would find a solution of the problems that perplex them.” Ibid., 13.

As we look at the financial picture of our world, the 2 million foreclosures of homes and businesses is shocking. People are losing their homes and losing their jobs. The American dollar was the leading of all our monetary systems of the world, but today, some nations are refusing to accept dollars in the monetary exchanges.

Money Depreciates Suddenly

Money will soon depreciate in value very suddenly when the reality of eternal scenes opens to the senses of man.

“God will have men who will venture anything and everything to save souls. Those who will not move until they can see every step of the way clearly before them will not be of advantage at this time to forward the truth of God.” Evangelism, 62, 63.

God’s Final Warning To The World And The Seventh-day Remnant Church Of God

“God cannot forbear much longer. Already His judgments are beginning to fall on some places, and soon His signal displeasure will be felt in other places.

“There will be a series of events revealing that God is master of the situation. The truth will be proclaimed in clear, unmistakable language. As a people we must prepare the way of the Lord under the overruling guidance of the Holy Spirit. The gospel is to be given in its purity. The stream of living water is to deepen and widen in its course. In all fields, nigh and afar off, men will be called from the plow and from the more common commercial business vocations that largely occupy the mind, and will be educated in connection with men of experience. As they learn to labor effectively they will proclaim the truth with power. Through most wonderful workings of divine providence, mountains of difficulty will be removed and cast into the sea. The message that means so much to the dwellers upon the earth will be heard and understood. Men will know what is truth. Onward and still onward the work will advance until the whole earth shall have been warned, and then shall the end come.

“A Present-Day Work—More and more, as the days go by, it is becoming apparent that God’s judgments are in the world. In fire and flood and earthquake He is warning the inhabitants of this earth of His near approach. The time is nearing when the great crisis in the history of the world will have come, when every movement in the government of God will be watched with intense interest and inexpressible apprehension. In quick succession the judgments of God will follow one another—fire and flood and earthquake, with war and bloodshed.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 96–97.

September 11, 2001—the world was awakened in that great tragedy. That great tragedy has changed the living; it changed the business world and complicated travel. We were reminded that we are living in a very dangerous time.

The curtain is now going up on the last act of the drama of the ages. “The world is a theater; the actors, its inhabitants, are preparing to act their part in the last great drama. With the great masses of mankind there is no unity, except as men confederate to accomplish their selfish purposes. God is looking on. His purposes in regard to His rebellious subjects will be fulfilled.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 27.

What is the responsibility of the Seventh-day Adventist people and their leaders and pastors in this final world crisis? The Seventh-day Adventist Church was raised up by God soon after 1844 to do a special work.

The Law Of God

We were ordained by God to present to the world the law of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice, the Sanctuary message, the Three Angels’ Messages, the 2,300–day prophecy, the Seventh-day Sabbath, and the state of the dead, which separates us from the Protestant churches. The gift of prophecy was restored to the Seventh-day Adventist people soon after 1844.

The True Gospel Of Jesus Christ

The real gospel of Jesus Christ is portrayed in the following inspired words: “The last rays of merciful light, the last message of mercy to be given to the world, is a revelation of His character of love. The children of God are to manifest His glory. In their own life and character they are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 415, 416.

So we see that the true gospel of Jesus Christ is to reveal His love, His holy law and justice. The true gospel of Jesus is power in the life to be a perfect overcomer; not by what we do, but what we want and let God do in us. This true gospel of Jesus gives men, women, and children the understanding of victory over sin by the power of the Holy Spirit. Any gospel that does not reveal the love of God in daily living is a false gospel.

The Purified Heart From Sin Creates Obedience To All Known Truth

“To the heart that has become purified, all is changed. Transformation of character is the testimony to the world of an indwelling Christ. The Spirit of God produces a new life in the soul, bringing the thoughts and desires into obedience to the will of Christ; and the inward man is renewed in the image of God. Weak and erring men and women show to the world that the redeeming power of grace can cause the faulty character to develop into symmetry and abundant fruitfulness.” Lift Him Up, 286.

“The Christian’s life is not a modification or improvement of the old, but a transformation of nature. There is a death to self and sin, and a new life altogether. This change can be brought about only by the effectual working of the Holy Spirit.” The Desire of Ages, 172.

We Can Be Perfect Overcomers Here

“The warfare against self is the greatest battle that was ever fought. The yielding of self, surrendering all to the will of God and being clothed with humility, possessing that love that is pure, peaceable, and easy to be entreated, full of gentleness and good fruits, is not an easy attainment. And yet it is his privilege and his duty to be a perfect overcomer here. The soul must submit to God before it can be renewed in knowledge and true holiness. The holy life and character of Christ is a faithful example.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 106, 107.

“We can overcome. Yes; fully, entirely. Jesus died to make a way of escape for us, that we might overcome every evil temper, every sin, every temptation, and sit down at last with Him.” Ibid., vol. 1, 144.

Every Seventh-day Adventist is to be an ambassador for Christ, revealing how God has transformed us by the renewing of our minds.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1,2.

Walking With Jesus Is Abiding In Christ

“Walk continually in the light of God. Meditate day and night upon His character. Then you will see His beauty and rejoice in His goodness. Your heart will glow with a sense of His love. You will be uplifted as if borne by everlasting arms. With the power and light that God imparts, you can comprehend more and accomplish more than you ever before deemed possible.” The Ministry of Healing, 514.

Abiding in Christ is walking with Christ and revealing the character of Christ in every thought, word, and action by the power of the Holy Spirit.

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” John 15:4–8.

“Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” I John 3:6–9.

When we abide in Christ, we have the power of the Holy Spirit to keep us from sinning. Those who will not yield their will, thoughts, and mind to God cannot abide in Christ. Therefore, they cannot be overcomers in Christ; they cannot be saved in God’s kingdom. According to the sixth verse of John fifteen, those who will not yield their mind and will to God will end up in the lake of fire. Only those who abide in Christ, walking with Him in this sin-cursed world as overcomers, will walk with Jesus in life eternal.

Dear friends, we have talked about the coming of the Lord and the final events that will lead us into the time of trouble; it is now before us.

God’ Last Call To His Remnant People In This Remnant Of Time

“ ‘The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly. That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of the trumpet and alarm against the fenced cities, and against the high towers. And I will bring distress upon men, that they shall walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the Lord: and their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their flesh as the dung. Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the Lord’s wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of His jealousy: for He shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land.’ Zephaniah 1:2, 3, 8–18.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 94, 95.

“And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” Romans 13:11, 12.

“(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” II Corinthians 6:2.

Dear friends, let us remember what Jesus said, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:14.

And again, our prophet, Ellen White, wrote:

“To stand in defense of truth and righteousness when the majority forsake us, to fight the battles of the Lord when champions are few—this will be our test.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 136.

Only a few are to be chosen. Who are they?—The loyal, true, and obedient to the law of God; keeping the Sabbath fully; revealing the character of Christ in daily living.

“The Holy Spirit never leaves unassisted the soul who is looking unto Jesus. He takes of the things of Christ and shows them unto him. If the eye is kept fixed on Christ, the work of the Spirit ceases not until the soul is conformed to His image.” The Desire of Ages, 302.

Let us remember that the only treasure we take from this world to the next is our character.

“A character formed according to the divine likeness is the only treasure that we can take from this world to the next. … To everyone engaged in this work Christ says, I am at your right hand to help you.

“As the will of man co-operates with the will of God, it becomes omnipotent.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 332, 333.

Perfect Obedience Is Possible And Mandated By God

“By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness.” Ibid., 312.

Elder Ron Spear served as field secretary for the Review and Herald, working at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. In the early 1980s, Ron Spear felt impressed that God was calling him to begin publishing a magazine that would feature the fundamental truths of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He has been and continues to be a leader in holding up the banner of Christ to help prepare a people for the soon coming of Jesus. He can be contacted by email at: landmarks@stepstolife.org.

Daily Christianity

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Christianity: what does the term mean? Although we have a superficial understanding of the word, we seldom spend time contemplating what the word “Christian” really means. The term, in the most basic definition, means to be Christ-like, a very high calling indeed. What an honor it is that we humans are invited to be like the king of the universe. And what a humiliating experience it was for the God who holds the world in His hand and is the sustainer of all things to come down to this earth of sin and be one of a broken and vile race. The best way for us to truly understand the power of living Christianity is to study Christ and His life among us.

We were created to have the wonderful privilege of being in the likeness of God. The great Creator said, “Let us make man in our image …” Genesis 1:26. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” Genesis 1:27. However, when sin entered, man cut himself off from God, the source of life, and thus accepted another leader, the source of death. Sin is a terrible offender. It is the exact opposite of the love of God, and has no place in His kingdom, and, unfortunately, sin carries a heavy price. God loved man so much that He was willing to pay that price for sin. He died so that eternal life, that we forfeited, could be reversed, to free us from the tyrannical rule of Satan. Our debt for sin paid, we now have the opportunity to accept the gift and live in such a manner. The plan of salvation has been explained for us in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Christian life demands action. Christ came and lived among us to show us how we are to fashion our lives. Jesus had to learn from infanthood just as we have to. He developed habits and skills just as we have to. Each country has its own traditions, customs, skills, and habits that are developed. In China, for example, people eat with chop sticks; in other countries, with their fingers; in the United States, a fork, knife, and spoon are traditional. We learn by watching and listening to others; we combine what we see and hear with our inherited tendencies and capabilities, and thus form our habits of living. Jesus did the same while He was with us.

God created man not just to go about daily life robotically, but to think, and choose, and feel as he meets different situations in life. What we choose is governed by what we think, and our thoughts are gathered by what we take in from what is around us, what we read, and from experiences and situations that have come to us in our lives. Practical Godliness is doing things that need to be done in a way that is pleasing to God. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” I Corinthians 10:31. In order that we may know what is pleasing to God, we must look to the life of Jesus when He was on earth, and study God’s word.

To glorify God physically, our health must be carefully tended to. Every individual must eat, drink, sleep, exercise, etc. But Christians are asked to make wise choices in these areas, choices that are against what most people do. We are asked to be responsible with the foods and drinks that we consume so that our bodies may be in optimum health. We need to balance exercise and rest for the maximum strength and stamina. We must also responsibly manage time for ourselves and time designated to others and their well-being. Living with these things as priorities is one form of practical Christianity.

Clean and healthy bodies are one part of Godliness; another is environmental cleanliness. Therefore, sweeping the floor, washing the dishes, and dusting, if done in a cheerful manner with a prayer in your heart, are also forms of practical Godliness. All such things as mowing the lawn, trimming the trees, and cleaning the sidewalks are included, if done with a sweet and pleasant spirit. Cleanliness is very important to God. “Order and cleanliness is the law of heaven; and in order to come into harmony with the divine arrangement, it is our duty to be neat.” The Adventist Home, 224. “Home duties should be performed with the consciousness that if they are done in the right spirit, they give an experience that will enable us to work for Christ in the most permanent and thorough manner. Oh, what might not a living Christian do in missionary lines by performing faithfully the daily duties, cheerfully lifting the cross, not neglecting any work, however disagreeable to the natural feelings!” The Adventist Home, 35.

Living a practical Christian life is not just about keeping oneself healthy and tidy. Matthew 7:12 reads, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” In other words, we should practice courtesy, kindness, thoughtfulness, and compassion. Jesus explained this further in a parable that describes the experience of Him coming back to earth; “The golden rule is the principle of true courtesy, and its truest illustration is seen in the life and character of Jesus. Oh, what rays of softness and beauty shone forth in the daily life of our Saviour! What sweetness flowed from His very presence! The same spirit will be revealed in His children. Those with whom Christ dwells will be surrounded with a divine atmosphere. Their white robes of purity will be fragrant with perfume from the garden of the Lord. Their faces will reflect light from His, brightening the path for stumbling and weary feet.” The Adventist Home, 424.

“When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:31–40. These verses in Matthew describe the core of Godliness. When we see someone in need, we are to help them in whatever way we are capable. Our actions to one another are counted as having been done to the Savior Himself. He so identifies Himself with the human race that He feels and understands every act of kindness or brutality.

Godliness encompasses more than just human relationships and habits. We must have an intimate knowledge of someone to take on his or her thought patterns, behaviors, and values. We need to know God intimately. When we study Christ’s life, there are several things that are quite striking, the first of which is that He was intimately acquainted with Scripture. In His teachings, Christ told the people, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39. He told the Sadducees, “And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?” Mark 12:24. When Jesus was suffering great agony, He said to His disciples, “But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?” Matthew 26:54. Jesus knew His Bible, and in knowing it, He was able to resist the devil and live according to God’s will. Secondly, He spent much time in prayer and fasting. Jesus was able to resist Satan in the wilderness in His dilapidated state because God the Father and the Scriptures were imbedded in His heart. Luke 6:12 gives us a picture of His dedication to speaking with God the Father; “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.” It is recorded that when His disciples heard Him praying, they were impressed, and asked to be taught to pray as Jesus did. “And it came to pass, that as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of His disciples said unto him, Lord teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” Luke 11:1. In response to their request, Jesus gave them what we now call The Lord’s Prayer; “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” Matthew 6:9–11. We can read about Jesus fasting in Matthew, chapter 4. His church attendance is evident in Luke 4:16: “And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up for to read.”

If one was to sum up a life of practical Christianity, it could be said that it is living a life guided by the principles laid down in the word of God, which gives us a divine pattern to follow. In doing so, our lives will be filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

“A living faith in Christ is demonstrated by good deeds in our families, and our neighborhoods, by thoughtful, and practical consideration of the poor, by visiting and comforting the widows and the fatherless in their affliction, by keeping ourselves unspotted from the world, and by using our means and influence for the advancement of the cause of God. This must not be done grudgingly or murmuringly, but freely and cheerfully as Jesus gave all for us.” The Signs of the Times, August 22, 1878.

Ruth Grosboll works at Steps to Life. She can be contacted by email at: landmarks@stepstolife.org.

The Self-Recrimination of a Mother

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My daughters often give me tokens of their love and appreciation. As I write this article I have a lovingly-made, hand-crafted piece of art hanging on my refrigerator that says, “Mom, you are the best mother in the whole world!” My two-year-old son has a multi-sensory approach to sharing his love—smiles, giggles and kisses.

Not only do I have devoted admirers in my children, but my husband has told me that I am the best wife and mother in the world. Being the honest soul that he is, he did qualify his statement. He said that it is theoretically possible that there could be a better wife and mother somewhere in the world, but he certainly did not know who it would be. And if there were someone, or even a few women who might be better, I would certainly be in a very select group.

Imperfect and Inadequate

One would expect that with such affection from my loving family (who clearly wear rose-colored glasses), I would be quite confident of my abilities to be a successful wife and mother. But often I find myself painfully aware of my inadequacies and defects.

Likely, not a day goes by that I do not wish I were better able to fulfill my duties as a wife and mother. My thoughts run along the lines of: “If only I could better organize our home. If only I had more time for Bible study. If only I were more patient. If only I could be a better example for my children. If only I would bring a more cheerful atmosphere into the home. If only I were more efficient. If only. Yes, if only I could be a better wife and mother.”

There are days I do not experience feelings of accomplishment or success. Survival seems to be the sought-after achievement of these “if only” days. Endeavoring to train my children for the service of God; trying to keep up with feeding, clothing, bathing, educating, and loving my children; as well as managing our money, trying to be a good wife, helping at church, trying to be a good neighbor and witnessing in the community sometimes feels like plugging the leaks in a breaking dam! Why is it that I cannot seem to do it all and do it well? Is this really what Christian motherhood is supposed to be like? Why do I never feel good enough no matter what my children and husband say?

The Cause of Self-recrimination

Recently, I read from a chapter about teachers out of the treasured volume, Education. I thought I should read it, due to the fact that I homeschool our children; because I am not only their mother, but also their teacher. After reading about the qualities and characteristics of the ideal teacher, my heart sank. It presented such a high ideal, one that I do not come close to reaching. At the end of the chapter, however, I read an insight that helped me understand why I struggle with self-recrimination. It is written for teachers, but it is just as applicable to mothers, who, after all, are a child’s first teacher.

“The deeper the sense of responsibility, and the more earnest the effort for self-improvement, the more clearly will the teacher perceive and the more keenly regret the defects that hinder his usefulness. As he beholds the magnitude of his work, its difficulties and possibilities, often will his heart cry out, ‘Who is sufficient for these things?’ ” Education, 281, 282.

Why are we, as mothers, so acutely sensitive of our faults and imperfections? The answer is that we feel so keenly because we care so deeply. We crave to be the best for our children.

My fellow mother, if you are intensely aware of your shortcomings, if you struggle with self-recrimination, take heart. God knows the desires of your heart. He knows how much you want to please Him. He knows how you long to do better work and how you want to lead your children into a saving relationship with Him.

The Cure for Self-recrimination

I continued reading in Education and found that God not only understands the cause of my feelings of inadequacy, but He also longs to give me His power to look past those feelings. He wants me to continue my earnest endeavor for self-improvement, but He wants me to look outside of myself, beyond my faultiness, to Him and the power in His promises.

“… As you consider your need of strength and guidance,—need that no human source can supply … consider the promises of Him who is the wonderful Counselor.” Education, 282.

I have found the most valuable and practical instruction regarding motherhood in the Spirit of Prophecy. I believe in studying Bible prophecy and Bible doctrines. I enjoy reading from devotionals. But as mothers, we should regularly be studying what the inspired writings teach about motherhood. God knows the challenges of mothers. The role of mothers is the most important in the world. And because it is so important, God has left specific counsel just for mothers. From that counsel, we should glean the precious promises. They will cheer our hearts and give us courage.

There is power in God’s promises. It is real power. It is physical power to accomplish a day’s work. It is mental power to think and work efficiently. It is spiritual power to overcome our character defects. It is transferable power that works through us to mold and shape the hearts and minds of our children. In short, it is power to reflect the character of Jesus.

Results of Using the Cure

The chapter in Education that gave me insight into the cause of self-recrimination, as well as the cure, closes with a wonderful promise of secret power to those who implement the sure remedy.

“… As the highest preparation for your work, I point you to the words, the life, the methods, of the Prince of teachers. I bid you consider Him. Here is your true ideal. Behold it, dwell upon it, until the Spirit of the divine Teacher shall take possession of your heart and life.

“ ‘Reflecting as a mirror the glory of the Lord,’ you will be ‘transformed into the same image.’ II Corinthians 3:18, R.V.

“This is the secret of power over your pupils [children]. Reflect Him. …” Education, 282.

Mothers, I challenge you to implement the cure for self-recrimination. In the daily struggle of motherhood, take time to focus on the promises of God and less on your defects and unworthiness. Claim God’s promises as your own. Trust Him with all your shortcomings. Dwell on Jesus’ perfect character. As you trust Him, as you dwell on His character, your children will see Jesus’ power working through you. A secret power will come over them—a power that will work to fulfill your greatest desire—the salvation of your children.

Teresa Grosboll writes from her home in Camas, Washington, where she lives with her supportive husband, their two loving daughters and energetic two-year-old son. She may be contacted via e-mail at grosbolls@yahoo.com.

A Christian Spirit

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In contemplating the love of God, it must be understood as an indispensable element in the Christian’s life. Fundamentally, it is also the prerequisite to possessing the graces of the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul makes this very clear. He affirms that the fruit of the Spirit is love. Essentially, the believer must be controlled and driven by the Holy Spirit in order for him/her to have this divine attribute, this heavenly principle! That’s why the apostle Paul says, “Walk in the spirit,” for when the believer agrees with the Holy Spirit to “walk in the spirit,” the Holy Spirit brings Christ into the life of the person; thus Christ’s love is shed abroad in the life, and it becomes the ruling principle by which all actions are determined.

When the motive power in the life of the Christian is the love of Jesus, it will henceforth bring about the fruit of joy! It is on this basis that Paul speaks, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy,” etc.

Joy is one of the graces of the Holy Spirit which dominates the life of the Christian as a result of possessing the love of Jesus Christ! But the question I would endeavor to answer is, What is joy? Webster’s Dictionary states that it is the emotion of gladness; happiness; gaiety; contentment; satisfaction.

In defining joy, the Holy Scripture declares, “… the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10, last part. The Hebrew word chedvah or khed-vaw means “rejoicing, gladness, joy.”

The word strength as used in Nehemiah 8:10, in association with the joy of the Lord, is the Hebrew word maw-ooz which means a fortified place; a defense, fort, rock, “a stronghold.” So the joy, rejoicing, and gladness that the Lord gives is the Christian’s defense, fortified place, his/her stronghold. The New Testament word joy, as used in Galatians 5:22, is chara and comes from chairo, meaning “to be cheerful, calmly happy or well-off.” Joyfulness is the invigorating tonic of the Christian character. The thing that makes you a strong Christian or a weak one is your possession or deprivation of the joy of the Lord.

On hearing the words of the book of the law, all the people wept. Nehemiah exhorts them to prepare themselves for serving the God of their fathers with a cheerful mind. Nehemiah 8:10: “Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for [this] day [is] holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” These words contain this important truth: to the nature of true religion there belongs an inward joy which animates, strengthens, and supports virtue.

In both Old Testament and New Testament, joy is consistently the mark both individually of the believer and corporately of the church. It is a quality, and not simply an emotion, that is grounded upon God Himself and indeed derived from Him. Psalm 16:11 says, “Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore.” Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.” Romans 15:13, “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost,” which characterizes the Christian’s life on earth. I Peter 1:8 reinforces this in saying, “Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see [him] not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory,” and also anticipates eschatologically the joy of being with Christ forever in the kingdom of heaven, e.g., Revelation 19:7, “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.”

In the Old Testament and the New Testament God Himself is the ground and object of the believers’ “joy.” Psalm 35:9, “And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord: it shall rejoice in his salvation”; Psalm 43:4, “Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.” Isaiah 61:10, “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh [himself] with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth [herself] with her jewels.” Luke 1:47, “And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.” Romans 5:11, “And not only [so], but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.” Philippians 3:1, “Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed [is] not grievous, but for you [it is] safe.” Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.”

In his book, Conquering the Kill-Joys, 13, Bill Weber made the following remark: “God made each of us with the capacity for greatness and joy, but many people go through life never achieving their full potential. He intends for us to live happy, joyful lives, but so often we are too weighted down with the ‘kill-joys’ of life to even think about being happy. … We were never promised that we would be exempt from problems, but we were assured that our personal faith would be adequate for whatever problems we might face.”

He states further, “It is tragic that so many are missing out on God’s best—even Christians—because they have accepted failure, negative thinking, inferiority feelings, bad habits, and shallow faith as their way of life. They are not receiving all the good things that God has planned for them.

“Jesus wants us to win at life. He promised that if we would follow Him, He would give us abundant life. I believe that abundant life is a life full of joy, full of success and satisfaction—a contagiously happy life. He really wants us to reach our highest potential and maximize every opportunity that He gives us.” Ibid., 13, 14.

Dr. Weber lists eleven negative emotions or forces that definitely kill our joy; they are rejection, anger, resentment, stress, poor self-image, frustration, mediocrity, poor values, isolation, discouragement, and loneliness.

Then there is what I call a counterfeit joy that Satan gives. The servant of the Lord penned the following, “Those who indulge in chaffing, mirth, levity, and vanity of spirit, which arise from a superficial, cheap experience, have no real, solid foundation for hope and joy in the love of God and belief of the truth. The giddy, the heedless, the gay, the jovial spirit is not the joy which Paul is anxious that Christ’s followers shall have. This class spends their time in frivolity and excessive levity.” In Heavenly Places, 245.

Speaking to the Battle Creek Church, Ellen White outlined to them what God had revealed to her. Commenting on what she was given, she said, “But there has been a class of social gatherings in Battle Creek of an entirely different character, parties of pleasure that have been a disgrace to our institutions and to the church. They encourage pride of dress, pride of appearance, self-gratification, hilarity, and trifling. Satan is entertained as an honored guest, and he takes possession of those who patronize these gatherings. A view of one such company was presented to me, where were assembled those who profess to believe the truth. One was seated at the instrument of music, and such songs were poured forth as made the watching angels weep. There was mirth, there was coarse laughter, there was abundance of enthusiasm, and a kind of inspiration; but the joy was such as Satan only is able to create. This is an enthusiasm and infatuation of which all who love God will be ashamed. It prepares the participants for unholy thought and action. I have reason to think that some who were engaged in that scene heartily repented of the shameful performance.” Testimonies to Ministers, 82, 83.

It is indeed true that we live in a world that is entrenched and saturated with these negative emotions and counterfeit joy that do not and cannot bring about real joy, real happiness. People are very sad, unhappy, frustrated, depressed, discouraged, lonely, stressed and distressed, isolated—needing someone who cares. Every day they pass us by, on the street, in church, at the work place and even at home. Their eyes speak to us of their lack; our eyes speak to people of our lack. There is no joy in the Lord. For years many of us as humans, including professed Christians, have not truly smiled or laughed; we are purely artificial, and we do so much to cover up our deficiency. Many are looking for happiness in the wrong places, wrong things, and wrong persons. The youth are being drawn away from the true source of joy and happiness because of their hunger for true joy.

At least one out of every ten people in America today experiences some form of depression and discouragement.

“Hi, how are you?”

It is a standard greeting, said quickly with a smile and slight nod as two acquaintances pass hurriedly along their way. But those words, although usually well-intentioned, ring hollow; void of genuine care about how you really are. The words are superficial, said simply to acknowledge another. Any response other than “fine” would be socially unacceptable. In saying it, one is being friendly—but not a friend.

In his collection of essays, Sir Francis Bacon described this societal solitude in a work entitled, On Friendship:

Little do men perceive what solitude is, and how far it extendeth.

For a crowd is not a company, and faces are but a gallery of

pictures and talk but a tinkling cymbal, where there is no love.

“Meaningful friends are so needed today. We all need friends who care enough to dip beneath the surface, to truly care how we are inside.” Conquering the Kill-Joys, 114.

“Today, the vast majority of people are frustrated because they feel they have been turned into ‘machines’ that have to be turned on at eight and then turned off at five. Just flip the switch! As one writer lamented:

“I work, work, work without end.

Why and for whom, I know not.

I care not. I ask not.

I am a machine.

“In the modern-day age there is a prevalent sense of desperation about the future of our society that also is creating a deep sense of frustration. Many people hold jobs that are so tightly connected to the economic health of the nation that the slightest fluctuation can either cause great despair or bring needed financial relief.” Ibid., 82, 83.

Americans are more prone to tenseness and stress than any other people on the earth. Americans wear too much expression on their faces. They are living with all their nerves in action, according to one author.

“A visiting nineteenth-century French author once wrote and told his countrymen that an American had ‘invented a chair called a rocking chair, in which he can move while he sits.’ We have been called the ‘uptight generation,’ and rightly so. This is indeed,

“The age of the half-read page

And the quick hash and the mad dash.

The bright night and the nerves tight,

The plane hop, and the brief stop,

The brain strain and the heart pain.

The cat naps till the spring snaps,

And the fun’s done.” Ibid., 56.

There is but little joy left on this earth and the sad fact is that so many professed Christians are not truly joyful or happy. They do not have the anchor that keeps the soul steadfast and sure while the billows roll.

But we all need to remember that we have an anchor that keeps the soul steadfast and sure while the billows of anger, rejection, resentment, stress, frustration, discouragement, grief, loneliness, sadness, etc., roll, fastened to the rock which cannot move, grounded firm and deep in our Savior’s love. The joy of the Lord is our strength, our stronghold, our defense, our fortress. David said it right, “God [is] our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1.

“John Wesley, a great Methodist preacher, arose at four o’clock every morning and often preached up to five times a day. In fifty years of ministry, he preached more than forty thousand times, which averages fifteen sermons a week! He traveled more than 250 thousand miles to spread the gospel. Yet, he never hurried, he never worried, and he never suffered the wear and tear of stress.” Conquering the Kill-Joys, 59.

How could this preacher do this? He made the Lord his trust, and today he says to us in his beautiful hymn,

“Give to the winds thy fears; hope and be undismayed.

God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears, God shall lift up thy head.

Through waves and clouds and storms, God gently clears thy way;

wait thou God’s time; so shall this night soon end in joyous day.

Leave to God’s sovereign sway to choose and to command;

so shalt thou, wondering, own that way, how wise, how strong this hand.

Let us in life, in death, thy steadfast truth declare,

and publish with our latest breath thy love and guardian care.”

Paul Gerhardt, 1653. Translated by John Wesley, 1739.

How can we receive this joy that keeps the soul under all circumstances? Jesus invites us, “Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

“The love which Christ diffuses through the whole being is a vitalizing power. Every vital part—the brain, the heart, the nerves—it touches with healing. By it the highest energies of the being are roused to activity. It frees the soul from the guilt and sorrow, the anxiety and care, that crush the life forces. With it come serenity and composure. It implants in the soul, joy that nothing earthly can destroy,—joy in the Holy Spirit,—health-giving, life-giving joy.

“Our Saviour’s words, ‘Come unto Me … and I will give you rest’ (Matthew 11:28,) are a prescription for the healing of physical, mental, and spiritual ills. Though men have brought suffering upon themselves by their own wrongdoing, He regards them with pity. In Him they may find help. He will do great things for those who trust in Him.” The Ministry of Healing, 115.

“Believing brings peace, and trusting in God brings joy.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 319, 320.

“The only way to gain peace and joy is to have a living connection with Him who gave His life for us, who died that we might live, and who lives to unite His power with the efforts of those who are striving to overcome.” In Heavenly Places, 33.

“In Christ is fullness of joy forevermore. The desires and pleasures and amusements of the world are never satisfying nor healing to the soul.” Testimonies to Ministers, 390.

“We should never give to the world the false impression that Christians are a gloomy, unhappy people. If our eyes are fixed on Jesus, we shall see a compassionate Redeemer, and shall catch light from His countenance. Wherever His Spirit reigns, there peace abides. And there will be joy also, for there is a calm, holy trust in God.” The Desire of Ages, 153.

“Is it possible to have joy in obeying Christ? It is the only real joy that any soul can have.” Sons and Daughters of God, 195.

“He [Christ] says, ‘If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.’ John 15:10, 11. In Him there is joy that is not uncertain and unsatisfying. If the light that flows from Jesus has come to you, and you are reflecting it upon others, you show that you have joy that is pure, elevating, and ennobling. Why should not the religion of Christ be represented as it really is, as full of attractiveness and power? Why should we not present before the world the loveliness of Christ? Why do we not show that we have a living Saviour, one who can walk with us in the darkness as well as in the light, and that we can trust in Him?” That I May Know Him, 142.

“The life in which the fear of the Lord is cherished will not be a life of sadness and gloom. It is the absence of Christ that makes the countenance sad and the life a pilgrimage of sighs. … But Christ dwelling in the soul is a wellspring of joy. For all who receive Him, the keynote of the Word of God is ‘rejoicing.’

“Why should not our joy be full—full, lacking nothing? We have the assurance that Jesus is our Saviour, and that we may freely partake of the rich provision He has made for us. … It is our privilege to seek constantly the joy of His presence. He desires us to be cheerful and to be filled with praise to His name. He wants us to carry light in our countenances and joy in our hearts.” Ibid.

For many, many Christians there is something that has been and is destroying their joy, and that something is trial.

The book, The Upward Look, 252, records for our benefit the following: “When trials come to us, let us not dwell upon the greatness of the difficulties and feel that we cannot have joy in the Lord. It is true we will have changes of feelings. There will come to us times of discouragement and depression. But shall we live by feeling or by faith? When our brethren and friends speak unadvisedly, and cause us grief, let us not be cast down. Let us remember that we are in a world of trial and grief, of sorrow and disappointment. When these experiences come to us, they should drive us to Christ. If they do not, we meet with loss.

“When tempted to give up under discouragement and difficulty, let us study the life and experiences of Christ. He had to contend against the powers of darkness that He might not be overcome. We have the same battle to fight, the same victories to win. ‘God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.’ John 3:16. It is our privilege to lay hold on the strength of One who is able to save unto the uttermost all that come unto God by Him. He invites you to present your case at the throne of grace, and cast your helpless soul on Him.

“The purging is not pleasant, but let us remember that Christ came to our world and took humanity that He might bear the afflictions that humanity must bear and be an example of faithful endurance under every form of trial. God wants us to realize that we are a part of the great human family, and that we must bear its tests. …

“Let your humanity lay hold of divinity. Go to the footstool of God’s grace, and say, ‘Lord, I hang my helpless soul on Thee. Help me to control my speech. Teach me to overcome.’ Christ will give you a spirit of overcoming. ‘They overcame him,’ we read, ‘by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.’ Revelation 12:11.”

Listen to the reason why we should not sink under trials, “Trials are Christ’s workmen to perfect the Christian graces. … These tests are not to sink the believers’ faith, but raise it equal to the occasion, that unto all it may be made to appear more precious than gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire. Every trial permitted is designed to exalt the truth to a higher appreciation, that praise to God alone shall be upon the lips of the true disciple of Christ. And the growth in grace is to the honor and glory of God at the appearing of Jesus Christ, ‘whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you.’ I Peter 1:8–10.” The Upward Look, 324.

“We grieve the Spirit of Christ by our complaints and murmurings and repinings. We should not dishonor God by the mournful relation of trials that appear grievous. All trials that are received as educators will produce joy. The whole religious life will be uplifting, elevating, ennobling, fragrant with good words and works.” God’s Amazing Grace, 325.

“So far from causing grief, persecution should bring joy to the disciples of Christ, for it is an evidence that they are following in the steps of their Master.

“While the Lord has not promised His people exemption from trials, He has promised that which is far better. He has said, ‘As thy days, so shall thy strength be.’ ‘My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Deuteronomy 33:25; II Corinthians 12:9. If you are called to go through the fiery furnace for His sake, Jesus will be by your side even as He was with the faithful three in Babylon. Those who love their Redeemer will rejoice at every opportunity of sharing with Him humiliation and reproach. The love they bear their Lord makes suffering for His sake sweet.” Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 30.

No real joy can be found in disobedience. “Man is doing the greatest injury and injustice to his own soul when he thinks and acts contrary to the will of God. No real joy can be found in the path forbidden by Him who knows what is best, and who plans for the good of His creatures. The path of transgression leads to misery and destruction; but wisdom’s ‘ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.’ Proverbs 3:17.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 600.

When king David sinned his great sin, he prayed a prayer that we all need to pray. “Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me [with thy] free spirit.” Psalm 51:12.

In Testimonies, vol. 3, 481, is recorded these wonderful words, “The sweetest joy comes to man through his sincere repentance toward God because of the transgression of His law, and faith in Christ as the sinner’s Redeemer and Advocate.”

There are three things that constitute the greatest joy, namely, “To honor Christ, to become like Him, to work for Him, is the life’s highest ambition and its greatest joy.” Education, 297.

So why is it so necessary that we experience this joy that comes from knowing Christ? Because we are planning to make heaven our home and, “Heaven is full of joy. It resounds with the praises of Him who made so wonderful a sacrifice for the redemption of the human race. Should not the church on earth be full of praise? Should not Christians publish throughout the world the joy of serving Christ? Those who in heaven join with the angelic choir in their anthem of praise must learn on earth the song of heaven, the keynote of which is thanksgiving.” Testimonies, vol. 7, 244.

The chorus goes like this,

I have a joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, down in my heart, down in my heart.

I have a joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, down in my heart to stay.

I know the devil doesn’t like it but it’s down in my heart, down in my heart, down in my heart.

I know the devil doesn’t like it but it’s down in my heart, down in my heart to stay.

(By George Willis Cooke)

Is the joy of the Lord your strength? Do you have the joy of the Lord down in your heart?

Pastor Ivan Plummer ministers at the Emmanuel Seventh Day Church Ministries in Bronx, New York. He may be contacted by e-mail at: landmarks@stepstolife.org.

Thankful

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“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

It is an unqualified command, and it is a command just as surely as are the words, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).

“It is a very difficult commandment to obey,” do you say? No: “His commandments are not grievous.” It is impossible, however, to obey any commandment of God, when it is regarded from the human side, merely as a commandment; we must know it as a promise, and then it becomes a delight. Obedience to the commandment, “In everything give thanks,” not only brings, but is the highest happiness that human hearts can know.

What have we to be thankful for?—Everything. Listen: “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things” (Romans 8:32)? Now the very thought of God’s free gift must awaken love, “and we know that all things work together for good to them that love God” (Romans 8:28). Since God cannot but give us all things in Christ, and in Him all things are for our good, how can we be otherwise than thankful in everything?

“How can I be thankful when I know that I am a sinner, and that I am lost?” Easily enough, when you know that “the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). If you feel lost, that should remind you that the Lord Jesus Christ is good at finding.

“Ah, but you don’t know how great a sinner I am; you would feel depressed if you felt yourself to be the greatest sinner in the world.”

Not by any means; so much the more for joy. “Faithful is the saying, of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief; howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me as chief might Jesus Christ show forth all longsuffering” (1 Timothy 1:15, 16, R.V.). “Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound” (Romans 5:20). The greater the sin, the greater the saving grace bestowed. Then thank God.

“But I have so many temptations; how can I give thanks in the midst of them?”

“My brethren, count it all joy, when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:2–4). How can one help being thankful for that which makes him perfect, and brings him everything good?

“Oh, but I have more trials and trouble than anybody else in the world.”

Good! then you have more to be thankful for than anybody else in the world; for have you never read: “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:3–5). The greater the trial, the greater the comfort.

“I am so very poor and needy, I lack everything; how can I give thanks?” Your great need should simply remind you of the promise, “My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory” (Philippians 4:19). The more needy you are, the more you get. “I am poor and needy, yet the Lord thinketh upon me” (Psalm 40:17). “Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which He hath promised to them that love Him” (James 2:5)? Your poverty is your wealth.

“But I am so vacillating, so easily swayed; the slightest breath moves me, and I cannot stand.”

Then thank God doubly for that, “because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4); and if you are so easily swayed by the Holy Spirit. Only let the breath of Christ blow upon you, and it will always carry you in the right direction with the force of “a rushing mighty wind”(Acts 2:2).

The fact is, Christ has so completely identified Himself with humanity, that there is not any circumstance in life, no condition of the soul or body, no need or frailty, that does not in itself suggest the fullness of God in Him. Whatever poverty or temptation or suffering we have, whether as the direct result of our own folly, or from causes of which we are not personally responsible, we may know that they are the sufferings of Christ, and find the joy of deliverance in the knowledge. “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.”

“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16, last part). It seems to a great many that these words drive off the thought of effectual prayer further than ever, for they would not presume to say that they were righteous. But how does anyone become righteous? “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us” (Titus 3:5). “Being justified freely by His grace,” we obtain righteousness, “even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe” (Romans 3:22).

Therefore the man who is righteous becomes so by believing the glad tidings which God declares to all, “concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord.” He has learned how to take what God gives, and having learned how to take the greatest gift of all, he knows how simple a matter it is to receive all things else.

For to the man who receives Jesus Christ, everything else is given. It can not be otherwise. “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things” (Romans 8:32)? And Jesus, speaking of food and drink and clothing, says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).

God does not force allegiance. He waits for it. The crown of our own individual love and loyalty must be offered by our own hands.

The Present Truth (UK) 80. February 2, 1899.

Secret Prayer

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“Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” Mark 13:35-37

The warning of Jesus is to be diligent and watch. He is referring here to the close of probation, the time when there will be no more interceding on our behalf in the heavenly sanctuary before our Father. This time will come on the world unawares and if we are not watching, then we will be found wanting.

Jesus said, “Watch and pray.” Matthew 26:41. It is in the secret prayer, the quiet times spent alone with God, that God is able to communicate with you. “The Lord speaks, enter into your closet and in silence commune with your own heart. Listen to the voice of truth and conscience. Nothing will give such clear views of self as secret prayer.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 163. It is secret prayer that keeps a soul alive. Mrs. White says, “Family prayer, public prayer, have their place, but it is secret communion with God that sustains the soul life.” Education, 258.

Jesus understood the value in communicating with His Father, and we are told in the Scriptures that He got up a long time before morning and He went out into a solitary place and there He prayed, often spending long hours and sometimes nights in prayer.

In the book Steps to Christ, 98, we are told that we should pray in the family circle and above all we must not neglect secret prayer, for this is the life of the soul. God’s servant says in this little book, “It is impossible for the soul,” your soul and my soul, spiritually speaking, “to flourish while prayer is neglected.” Now what we are talking about here, contextually, is while you and I disregard or neglect secret communion with God it is impossible for us to live a Christian life. Impossible! And that’s the reason why we see so many good Christians slowly fall away, leave the church, leave the message. It has not much to do with years in the church; it has to do with our connection with Jesus, whether I am spending time with God in prayer, in communion with Him.

The issue of secret prayer carries a certain quality and purpose. The purpose is that God would reveal to me, myself, which is something that many of us do not want to discover, our true self. We live in an age of accolades. In other words, we live in a time when we only want to be patted on the shoulder, but do not want to be rebuked or to be corrected, so staying away from secret prayer allows us to truly misunderstand who we really are. God is struggling with us to bring us to the point where He can sit us down and say, look, you have this problem and you need to work on it. I am here to help you, and give you the power to overcome all of these problems. When our spouses or our relatives or when our friends or church members tell us that we have a certain problem, we become offended and we don’t want to hear. Maybe we think that it is because they don’t like us, or they are jealous of us. But God sits us down and God says, “Look, you may not want to hear what I’m saying, but I’m telling you, this is your problem. Work on it. I’m here to help you. I’m telling you this in love with no one else around.” You see, the Lord loves us so much that He wants to polish us, rub us down, use the hammer and the chisel to get the rough edges off us, so that we can make heaven our home. That is what the real issue is, but it will never happen until we get into our closets and pray. “It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is neglected.” Family or public prayer alone is not sufficient. Did you get that? Not sufficient! Did you take time out, alone? Charlie Pride, who sang this song many years ago, “E’re you left your room this morning,”—I’m sure you know that song.—“Did you think to pray?”

There is a story of a Christian who got up out of bed and was so busy that he didn’t pray. The day was chaos, and as he retraced his steps he agreed that the reason why things went the way they did is because he just did not have time to pray. Satan is working to get us so busy with daily cares that we neglect secret prayer. Now, more than any human being, Satan knows the value of one on one communion with God. Therefore, what he does is put forth extra effort to devalue prayer in the life of the Christian. He makes us become so absorbed in worldly affairs that we neglect that special time with God.

He makes us become so absorbed in business transactions, educational pursuits, family life, money making—all at the expense of spending time with God in secret prayer. He makes us overwork ourselves. It amazes me sometimes when I see people come to church and they fall asleep. And I understand being tired, doing two, and sometimes three jobs, to barely hold on. Sometimes we become so tied up in the Lord’s work as ministers and Bible workers and elders and whatever our capacity may be in the work of the Lord, we become so absorbed, so busy doing the work of the Lord, that we neglect secret prayer, that time with God that is so critical.

The devil knows that in secret prayer we will see ourselves through God’s eye, our defects of character, our secret sins, and sins which do so easily beset us. The devil knows that. Satan knows that in secret prayer, the Christian will confess his or her sins and will receive strength to forsake them. Thus we’ll be in a state of constant watchfulness and readiness as we are reminded that “Satan well knows that all whom he can lead to neglect prayer and the searching of the scriptures will be overcome by his attacks.” Colporteur Ministry, 82. Satan not only just knows, but he well knows—my dear sister, my dear brother, young people, Satan knows who we are. He has been working on us for over 6,000 years—he knows who we are. He knows the material we are made of and what button to press to get us so mad, so angry, to fall away from the Lord, to give up. Satan well knows that his key is to get us to neglect prayer, because once you and I neglect prayer, we have no strength. There’s a statement that says, seven prayerless days makes one weak. Not w-e-e-k, but w-e-a-k.

The devil does not want you to hear this. He knows that if we neglect prayer, and the searching of the Scriptures, we’ll be overcome by his attacks. He knows that, so listen to what he does; “He invents every possible device to engross the mind.” Great Controversy, 519. And we have all kinds of excuses why we have no time to pray and have no time to study the word of God, why we have no time to commune with God. Let me ask you something. What is most important in your life? Is heaven on your mind? Then do you really think you’re going to get there just like that? “It will serve his [Satan’s] purpose well if we neglect the exercise of prayer. For then his lying wonders are more readily received.” Messages to Young People, 59.

“Neglect of prayer causes the Christian to become weak, to lose self control.” Don’t we see this happening? “To give rein to impure thoughts and impulses.” Pamphlet 066, 36.

“There is a mighty power in prayer. Our great adversary is constantly seeking to keep the troubled soul away from God.

“An appeal to heaven, by the humblest saint, is more to be dreaded by Satan than the decrees of cabinets or the mandates of kings.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

When you and I, in trouble, fall on our knees, it doesn’t matter what the issues may be in our lives; when we fall on our knees and telephone glory and call upon our Lord for power, for deliverance, for strength, God regards it more than decisions of cabinet and earthly kings. Yes, more, and Satan dreads it, for he knows the power of secret communion with God.

Now, considering all that Satan is doing to keep us from a sweet communion with God, we should readily heed the following counsel: “Let no one in these days of peril neglect prayer.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 8, 403. Don’t neglect it! Jesus, while He was on earth, understood the value of secret prayer, and that it is the life of the soul, and He knew the effort of His enemy, Satan. Consequently, He placed secret prayer as the priority in His life; it became the bulwark against the devil, and that is precisely how Jesus won the victory—secret communion with His Father.

Ellen White tells us that a storm is coming. She says that pen cannot describe what is coming on God’s people. God’s people need to be prepared. Before Jesus went to the cross, He prepared Himself every day through private communion with His Father, and when that ultimate test came, He had self control. His body was kept under subjection so that even when He stood before Pilate, who was being motivated by Satan to cause Him to become irritated, He stood erect, completely self possessed. This control takes a constant connection with Jesus Christ. By beholding we become changed, and self is lost sight of. Let us pray that we may say, “I am completely lost to myself, and Jesus Christ and His wonderful character has been reproduced in me, so that under the most trying circumstances I can reflect my Lord.” It is coming, dear brothers and sisters. We must ask God to reveal any self—“Lord, I don’t want to be a surprise to anyone.”

The test is coming for all of us. We are so easily annoyed and we are so easily affected. One of the easiest statements that comes out of the mouth of Adventists today is, I’m going to leave the church—simply because something doesn’t go your way, or you are not satisfied about something. It is as if to say that being in the church you were doing God a favor, but the Christian who has been seeking the Lord and spending time with Jesus has learned to forget self, and has learned to endure hardship, as a good soldier. So whatever comes, let it come. You will only be kept as our Saviour was kept—by secret prayer.

There is a difference between public prayer and private or secret prayer. Often times when people are called upon to pray in public, their prayers are either very long or inappropriate. This action reflects a lack of secret prayer in the life of the individual, or a lack of understanding. Speaking concerning this matter, God’s servant states that prayers should be short and to the point, and that even angels are weary with long public prayers. When you are in your private devotion with God, you can spend one hour or you can spend two if you have the time. It is no problem with God.

“Tell the Lord just what you want without going all over the world. In private prayer all have the privilege of praying as long as they desire, and of being as explicit as they please. They can pray for all their relatives and friends. The closet is the place to tell all their private difficulties and trials, and temptations.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 578.

The worship service is not the place to talk to the Lord about Grandma and Auntie and cousin and the dog, and the cat, and to talk about the private issues that are affecting us in our lives. The closet is for that purpose. When we come together to worship and we are going to pray in public, we should address that which pertains to the worship. “A common meeting to worship God is not the place to open the privacies of the heart. What is the object of assembling together? Is it to inform God, to instruct Him by telling Him all we know in prayer?” Ibid.

Peter and the disciples’ experience illustrates how important it is to watch and pray. Upon entering Gethsemane Jesus counseled them to watch and pray. “At first they had been much troubled to see their Master, usually so calm and dignified, wrestling with a sorrow that was beyond comprehension. They had prayed as they heard the strong cries of the sufferer. They did not intend to forsake their Lord. But they seemed paralyzed by a stupor which they might have shaken off if they had continued pleading with God. They did not realize the necessity of watchfulness and earnest prayer in order to withstand the temptation.” The Desire of Ages, 688.

When Jesus said, watch with Me, just watch with Me. I’m going to go yonder to pray, but watch with Me, please. Now, that wasn’t too important to them. Their eyes were heavy. They fell asleep. Just before He bent His footsteps to the garden, Jesus said to the disciples, “All ye shall be offended because of Me this night.” Matthew 26:31. They had given Him the strongest assurance that they would go with Him to prison and to death. And poor self-sufficient Peter added, “Although all shall be offended, yet will not I.” Matthew 26:33. So even if the other disciples should turn their backs upon you, Lord, I am promising You, I will not leave You.

But the disciples trusted to themselves. They did not look to the mighty Helper as Christ had counseled them to do, and this problem of self-sufficiency in the church needs to go. We are no match for Satan and as long as we depend upon ourselves we will be defeated. Thus when the Savior was most in need of their sympathy and prayers, they were found asleep.

Are you sleeping? In your spiritual life, are you asleep? Even Peter was asleep, the one who promised that he would be with the Lord, no matter what. We may want to reflect and ponder the following questions. I ask you, and this is a question I ask myself, and I need you to ask yourself; Am I like Peter and the other disciples, trusting to myself? Am I unwilling to follow God’s counsels? Am I willing to know my true spiritual condition? Am I? Am I so engrossed in worldly affairs that I have no time for secret prayer? Do I truly love the time of prayer alone with my Savior, or am I self-deceived like Peter and the other disciples in believing that I am watchful and ready while probation may very well be closed or is closing, and possibly I may be forever locked out?

It is due to this awareness that the apostle Paul counseled the Thessalonian Christians, “Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Pray! In your bathroom, lift up a prayer. While driving along the freeway or the highway, you can commune with God. While you’re on the job at the desk, wherever you are, take a moment to send up a little prayer. When you are faced with temptations, just remember, a little prayer coming from a sincere heart, seeking for strength, will not be turned back.

Why are we failing as Christians? Why are we apostatizing? Why is it that our hearts are saying something different from our lips? Why is it that there is envy, jealousy, selfishness, resentment, hatred, and an unforgiving spirit in our hearts? You see, this is what Jesus wants us to come to Him to deal with. When you kneel before the Lord in the closet, ask that He will reveal self to you. And then He has the remedy to uproot that unforgiving spirit. Oh yes, you may be in church every Sabbath singing and praying. Nobody knows what you are struggling with, but God knows. Maybe I have a resentful spirit or a malicious spirit, but I do not portray that publicly. Jesus knows, and because He knows, He pleads with you and me, “Come into the closet.”

I like what He says in Isaiah: “Come now and let us reason together.” Isaiah 1:18. You know, let’s talk it over. You don’t have to feel bad about the situation if it is plaguing your life, because we serve a Saviour who understands. He understands our situation and He wants to help us, but the only way we can be helped from our maladies is as we spend time with Him alone.

“Christ came to our world to engage in single-handed combat with this enemy of man, and thus to wrest the race from Satan’s grasp. In the accomplishment of this object He withheld not His own life. Now in the strength that Christ will give, man must stand for himself a faithful sentinel against the wily plotting foe. Says, the great apostle, ‘Walk circumspectly.’ [Ephesians 5:15.] Guard every avenue of the soul. Look constantly to Jesus the true and the perfect pattern and seek to imitate His example. Not in one or two points merely, but in all things. We shall then be prepared for any and every emergency.” That I May Know Him, 240.

Unceasing watchfulness, and not of the brother or sister in the church. Far too often we spend too much time looking at other people in church. What the Lord is asking us to do is to watch ourselves.

“Unceasing watchfulness is a great help to prayer. It keeps the mind from drifting away from right principles. It shuts out that vanity and trifling which prevails in the world everywhere and to an alarming extent among professed Christians. He whose mind loves to dwell upon God has a strong defense. He will be quick to perceive the dangers that threaten his spiritual life, and a sense of danger will lead him to call upon God for help and for protection.” The Review and Herald, October 11, 1881.

Just as our Jesus prepared Himself daily through secret prayer for the ultimate test and succeeded, so we are to daily prepare ourselves through spending quality time with Him in deep self-examination, confession, repentance, reconciliation, because our ultimate test is coming. Each and every one of us will be tested. Every one of us will be tested individually. It is coming. It is coming, so watch unto prayer; only as we keep that daily intimate connection with Jesus will we succeed and finally triumph. We have no time to lose, for we know not how soon our probation may close. Eternity stretches before us. The curtain is about to be lifted and Christ is soon to come. The angels of God are seeking to attract us from ourselves and from earthly things, so let us not labor in vain, ladies and gentlemen.

“A storm is coming, relentless in its fury.” Reflecting Christ, 311.

Are we prepared to meet that storm? Are we prepared? May God help us to make heaven our first goal; may God help us to value the time for prayer. May God help us, even if we have to shift up our program, our daily schedule, shift it up, but put some time in it for God. Do not become so busy that Jesus is left out of your program. I can tell you if we allow that to happen, as prominent as we are, as committed as we say we are, we are going to slowly, slowly, slowly move ourselves away from the source of life. And one day, we will die spiritually. Jesus admonishes us, He says, “Come now and let us reason together.” “Though your sins be as scarlet,” [Isaiah 1:18] whatever it may be, it doesn’t matter how dark or how crimson, whatever it might be, we have a Savior who understands. He wants to do something for you and me that only He can do so, why not give Him the chance? Take time to pray, and if we take time to pray, He has promised to listen. Victory will be our experience, and we will become a united force, such that Satan, when he thinks about us, will tremble. What a wonderful, loving God we serve. Praise and honor all go to Him!

Pastor Ivan Plummer ministers through the Emmanuel Seventh Day Church Ministries in Bronx, New York. He may be contacted by telephone at: 718-822-3900.

Youth to Youth: Just Wait

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Through our youth, we are faced with many different decisions—some with long-lasting effects and some with a lot less. The decision of a life partner is one of the biggest decisions we will ever make. This, sadly, may give us the most heartache we will ever experience. So what is the best way to sail around the rocks into the sunshine? I am certainly no expert in this, but I do have a few guidelines to offer.

Just wait!

When we are young, we always think that we are ready to make our own decisions, ready to go out into life, find our true love, and start things off. When I was 16, this is what I wanted to do, but I thank God He allowed things not to work out as I intended.

It is best to wait for God’s timing. But what is God’s timing? Obviously, this depends on the person, but we do have two areas of counsel to follow.

  1. Are we old enough? A decision as important as marriage should be postponed until we have fully developed both physically and mentally.

“A youth not out of his teens is a poor judge of the fitness of a person as young as himself to be his companion for life.” The Adventist Home, 79.

  1. Have we finished our education? This may be a weird question, but we do not want to divert brainpower from our studies for something that requires so much emotional and psychological energy.

“Young people are sent to school by their parents to obtain an education, not to flirt with the opposite sex. The good of society, as well as the highest interest of the students, demands that they shall not attempt to select a life partner while their own character is yet undeveloped, their judgment immature, and while they are at the same time deprived of parental care and guidance.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 62.

“Gather all the efficiency you can, making the most of your opportunities for the education and training of the character to fill any position which the Lord may assign you. You need so much a balance-wheel in judicious counsel. Do not despise advice. Bear in mind that the school is not a place to form attachments for courting or entering into marriage relations.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 10, 74.

Even when we are old enough and out of our studies, we may want to rush on before God, but my first instruction is to wait. Consider whether the person with whom you want to unite your life has the traits that are worthy of your attention. Take time to analyze this person to see if he or she has what you really need in a life partner as per the instruction we have been given in The Adventist Home, 211–224 and 231–273. I would encourage you to read this first from the angle of how should I be, and then read it from the angle of for what should I be looking.

Ask yourself, Am I ready to play my part in the family role? Have I come close to God? Am I willing to take up my fair share of life’s burdens? Am I willing to be that perfect husband or wife? Am I willing to work at a relationship, accept someone for who they are, and, with God’s help, have a happy home? Or will I be the sort who will want everything my way? These are hard questions, if you answer them honestly.

Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to wait upon the Lord, but if we will trust God, then He will work things out for us—maybe not in the way we think we want them to be, but in the way that He knows is best for us. When we learn this lesson and let God rule supremely in our lives, then we are ready to progress in finding a life partner.

Let us make sure we wait for the right time in our lives and also that we do the preparation work before we enter into such a relationship.

Jeff Samuels is a pseudonym

Commitment to the Marriage Covenant

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Week of Prayer for Wednesday

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This [is] now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Genesis 2:21–24.

“God celebrated the first marriage. Thus the institution has for its originator the Creator of the universe. ‘Marriage is honorable’ (Hebrews 13:4); it was one of the first gifts of God to man, and it is one of the two institutions that, after the Fall, Adam brought with him beyond the gates of Paradise. When the divine principles are recognized and obeyed in this relation, marriage is a blessing; it guards the purity and happiness of the race, it provides for man’s social needs, it elevates the physical, the intellectual, and the moral nature.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 46.

The following quote comes from an editorial published in the Bowling Green Daily News, July 28, 2002 [Bowling Green, Kentucky]. “Mayor Rudy Giuliani and his estranged wife Donna Hanover are not the only ones finding out how messy divorce can be. While a majority of divorce settlements don’t involve one party getting $6.8 million plus child support and legal fees, divorce in most cases sets in motion events over which individuals have little control.

“The research is deafening: Even strained marriages often are better than divorce. Also studies show that the benefits of divorce have been oversold. Researchers at the University of Chicago have followed up on some of the more than 5,000 married adults interviewed several years ago about their relationships. What they found is worthy of note: A good marriage takes much attention and effort.

“Commitment to a spouse and perseverance to face hurdles is the key to any marriage, whether the couple has lived together or not. While the number of marriages ending in divorce is staggering, there are still plenty of people who have found that most conflict, whether it is money, depression and even infidelity, can be resolved with communication and time.

“The effect that commitment can have on future generations is staggering. Wednesday’s [July 24, 2002] report indicating that children of divorce are more likely to end up being divorced themselves should be a strong influence on whether to break up a marriage.”

The Spirit of Prophecy has this to say about divorce: “A woman may be legally divorced from her husband by the laws of the land and yet not divorced in the sight of God and according to the higher law. There is only one sin, which is adultery, which can place the husband or wife in a position where they can be free from the marriage vow in the sight of God. Although the laws of the land may grant a divorce, yet they are husband and wife still in the Bible light, according to the laws of God.” The Adventist Home, 344.

The Commitment Factor

Though all of the following factors have contributed to the divorce rate, there is yet another—a missing preventive factor. However much these factors may predispose our society to an epidemic of divorces, such an epidemic can still be prevented if one key element is present. What element could this be? True commitment!

Problems That Lead to Divorce

What is wrong here? Probably a great many things. Divorce did not become a significant problem in the United States until after the mid-1900s. Many things have changed, which may be contributing to this problem.

The Impact of Dating

Interactions between young men and women have changed a lot since the 1800s. The role of parents, both in protecting their children from premarital intimacy and in influencing marriage decisions, is almost nonexistent today. The majority of modern Christians follow modern dating practices, which are not known to result in excellent marriages. Consider how many young people enter marriage with a background of prior romantic relationships and even fornication. How many relationships are founded on selfishness, physical attraction, and infatuation? How many marriages are entered into with serious misconceptions about the other person’s character, beliefs, and values? Certainly many Christian marriages start badly because of these things.

The Ease and Acceptance of Divorce

In prior times, divorce was only permitted when there was adultery. In the last few generations, many children have grown up in single parent homes. Thus a much smaller percentage of young people marrying have had good marriage role models in their own parents. Also, few have had much good teaching on Christian marriage.

Working Women and Temptation

In the 1800s, and even through most of the first half of the 1900s, the majority of married women were in the home, not in the workplace. Since that time, the majority of women, even of married women, have come to work outside the home, usually right alongside of men. Married women working outside the home are more financially independent of their husbands. Though we usually think of financial independence as a good thing, in marriage it makes the wife less reluctant to leave her husband and removes the husband’s guilt over leaving his wife unsupported. The prevalence of women in the workplace, including married women, has brought more temptation to infidelity to both men and women. Work often brings men and women into close working relationships and friendships that exclude their spouses. This makes fertile ground for infatuations and relationships that result in adultery.

Cultural Influences

Today, we live in a culture steeped in immorality, pornography, alcohol and drug abuse, and selfishness. This culture and its influences have strongly invaded Christian homes. It is no longer just through neighbors, coworkers, acquaintances, and books that we have been bombarded, but now it is also through radio, television, movies, and the Internet. The godless culture around us offers many new and highly effective tools with which to saturate us with temptations and godless influences.

The Marriage Commitment

Our ancestors viewed marriage as a vow before God, a vow to be taken very seriously. To break a solemn vow before God was to invite divine punishment. Churches taught that God hated divorce and that marriage was meant to be for life. Churches, schools, and the leaders of society all stressed the importance of integrity and honor and of keeping one’s promises. Men and women of honor kept their promises, even to their own hurt.

“The grace of Christ, and this alone, can make this institution what God designed it should be—an agent for the blessing and uplifting of humanity. And thus the families of earth, in their unity and peace and love, may represent the family of heaven.” Ibid., 100.

Should we not keep our vows? As modern Christians, should we regard marriage vows more lightly than did our ancestors? I think not! God does not base the marriage commitment on your feelings or on how well your partner treats you. You made a commitment—a vow—without conditions. You committed yourself to another’s care whatever the circumstances or however things might change.

God does not mince words about divorce. In Malachi 2:14–16, He states that He hates divorce, and speaks of those men who divorce as having dealt “treacherously” with their wives. How would you like to be described by God as being treacherous? In Matthew 5:32 and Luke 16:18, Jesus says that anyone who divorces his wife commits adultery and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery. Jesus further explains that Moses only permitted divorce because of the hardness of men’s hearts—divorce was not God’s intention. What God has joined together, let no man put asunder! (Matthew 19:6.)

Husbands

Where are the men of character and integrity today? Where are those who will give their word and stand by it, even to their own hurt? What about you? Husbands, as God’s appointed head of your family, you are expected to set the example for your wife and children. Are you a man on whom others can count? Do you keep your commitments?

You have vowed to love and care for your wife, whatever the situation, as long as you both shall live. Be true to your vow! Excuses, such as being unhappy in marriage, no longer feeling in love, or not being loved by your wife, do not cut it with God. Devote yourself to pleasing God in your role as a husband. Fulfill your responsibilities and, with patience, depend upon God. Often, this will transform your marriage in a way that brings glory to God. However, even if it does not, your obligation is the same. Your endurance and steadfast commitment to your vow will bring glory to God. Breaking your vow of marriage will bring dishonor on God’s name, giving “occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme.” 11 Samuel 12:14.

Wives

Some of you face very hard circumstances. Some of your marriages are difficult, at best. Do you feel unloved by your husband? Have you been left lonely and unfulfilled? Have you suffered much neglect and even cruelty from your husband? Hold on to God. He sees your situation, and He cares.

Be faithful to your vows, living with your husband as a godly wife, respecting and honoring him, remaining loyal to him even when he is not loyal to you. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve, whom you live to please. Fulfill your responsibilities as a woman of God, obeying all of the Bible’s instructions concerning marriage.

Do not lose heart. Do not allow your emotions to take control and lead you to dishonor God by abandoning your marriage. I know there are some situations where true physical harm is threatened, when it may be wise for you to depart from your husband for a time—but with the hope that you may soon be able to return and resume your duties as a loyal wife. Do all that is within your power to stand by your vow.

Husbands and Wives

Duty comes before happiness. You have a duty to God and to your marriage partner. Honor God by doing what is right, whatever your spouse chooses to do. You are responsible to God for what you do. Leave your spouse in God’s hands.

“The family tie is the closest, the most tender and sacred, of any on earth. It was designed to be a blessing to mankind. And it is a blessing wherever the marriage covenant is entered into intelligently, in the fear of God, and with due consideration for its responsibilities.

“Every home should be a place of love, a place where the angels of God abide, working with softening, subduing influence upon the hearts of parents and children.

“Our homes must be made a Bethel, our hearts a shrine. Wherever the love of God is cherished in the soul, there will be peace, there will be light and joy. Spread out the word of God before your families in love, and ask, ‘What hath God spoken?’ ” Ibid., 18, 19.

“He who gave Eve to Adam as a helpmeet performed His first miracle at a marriage festival. In the festal hall where friends and kindred rejoiced together, Christ began His public ministry. Thus He sanctioned marriage, recognizing it as an institution that He Himself had established. . . .

“Christ honored the marriage relation by making it also a symbol of the union between Him and His redeemed ones. He Himself is the Bridegroom; the bride is the church, of which, as His chosen one, He says, ‘Thou art all fair, My love; there is no spot in thee.’ [Song of Solomon 4:7.]” Ibid. 26.

“A Happy or Unhappy Marriage?—If those who are contemplating marriage would not have miserable, unhappy reflections after marriage, they must make it a subject of serious, earnest reflection now. This step taken unwisely is one of the most effective means of ruining the usefulness of young men and women. Life becomes a burden, a curse. No one can so effectually ruin a woman’s happiness and usefulness, and make life a heartsickening burden, as her own husband; and no one can do one hundredth part as much to chill the hopes and aspirations of a man, to paralyze his energies and ruin his influence and prospects, as his own wife. It is from the marriage hour that many men and women date their success or failure in this life, and their hopes of the future life.” Ibid., 43.

“Most men and women have acted in entering the marriage relation as though the only question for them to settle was whether they loved each other. But they should realize that a responsibility rests upon them in the marriage relation farther than this. They should consider whether their offspring will possess physical health and mental and moral strength. But few have moved with high motives and with elevated considerations which they could not lightly throw off—that society had claims upon them, that the weight of their family’s influence would tell in the upward or downward scale.

“The choice of a life companion should be such as best to secure physical, mental, and spiritual well-being for parents and for their children—such as will enable both parents and children to bless their fellow men and to honor their Creator.

“Qualities to Be Sought in a Prospective Wife.—Let a young man seek one to stand by his side who is fitted to bear her share of life’s burdens, one whose influence will ennoble and refine him, and who will make him happy in her love.

“ ‘A prudent wife is from the Lord.’ ‘The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her. . . . She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.’ ‘She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her,’ saying, ‘Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.’ He who gains such a wife ‘findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord.’ [Proverbs 19:14; 31:11, 12, 26–29; 18:22.]

“Here are things which should be considered: Will the one you marry bring happiness to your home? Is [she] an economist, or will she, if married, not only use all her own earnings, but all of yours to gratify a vanity, a love of appearance? Are her principles correct in this direction? Has she anything now to depend upon? . . . I know that to the mind of a man infatuated with love and thoughts of marriage these questions will be brushed away as though they were of no consequence. But these things should be duly considered, for they have a bearing upon your future life. . . .

“In your choice of a wife study her character. Will she be one who will be patient and painstaking? Or will she cease to care for your mother and father at the very time when they need a strong son to lean upon? And will she withdraw him from their society to carry out her plans and to suit her own pleasure, and leave the father and mother who, instead of gaining an affectionate daughter, will have lost a son?

“Qualities to Be Sought in a Prospective Husband.—Before giving her hand in marriage, every woman should inquire whether he with whom she is about to unite her destiny is worthy. What has been his past record? Is his life pure? Is the love which he expresses of a noble, elevated character, or is it a mere emotional fondness? Has he the traits of character that will make her happy? Can she find true peace and joy in his affection? Will she be allowed to preserve her individuality, or must her judgment and conscience be surrendered to the control of her husband? . . . Can she honor the Saviour’s claims as supreme? Will body and soul, thoughts and purposes, be preserved pure and holy? These questions have a vital bearing upon the well-being of every woman who enters the marriage relation.

“Let the woman who desires a peaceful, happy union, who would escape future misery and sorrow, inquire before she yields her affections, Has my lover a mother? What is the stamp of her character? Does he recognize his obligations to her? Is he mindful of her wishes and happiness? If he does not respect and honor his mother, will he manifest respect and love, kindness and attention, toward his wife? When the novelty of marriage is over, will he love me still? Will he be patient with my mistakes, or will he be critical, overbearing, and dictatorial? True affection will overlook many mistakes; love will not discern them.

“Accept Only Pure, Manly Traits.—Let a young woman accept as a life companion only one who possesses pure, manly traits of character, one who is diligent, aspiring, and honest, one who loves and fears God.

“Shun those who are irreverent. Shun one who is a lover of idleness; shun the one who is a scoffer of hallowed things. Avoid the society of one who uses profane language, or is addicted to the use of even one glass of liquor. Listen not to the proposals of a man who has no realization of his responsibility to God. The pure truth which sanctifies the soul will give you courage to cut yourself loose from the most pleasing acquaintance whom you know does not love and fear God, and knows nothing of the principles of true righteousness. We may always bear with a friend’s infirmities and with his ignorance, but never with his vices.” Ibid., 45–48.

“Marriage of Christians With Unbelievers.—There is in the Christian world an astonishing, alarming indifference to the teaching of God’s word in regard to the marriage of Christians with unbelievers. Many who profess to love and fear God choose to follow the bent of their own minds rather than take counsel of Infinite Wisdom. In a matter which vitally concerns the happiness and well-being of both parties for this world and the next, reason, judgment, and the fear of God are set aside; and blind impulse, stubborn determination are allowed to control.

“Men and women who are otherwise sensible and conscientious close their ears to counsel; they are deaf to the appeals and entreaties of friends and kindred and of the servants of God. The expression of a caution or warning is regarded as impertinent meddling, and the friend who is faithful enough to utter a remonstrance is treated as an enemy. All this is as Satan would have it. He weaves his spell about the soul, and it becomes bewitched, infatuated. Reason lets fall the reins of self-control upon the neck of lust; unsanctified passion bears sway, until, too late, the victim awakens to a life of misery and bondage. This is not a picture drawn by the imagination, but a recital of facts. God’s sanction is not given to unions which He has expressly forbidden.

“God’s Commands Are Plain.—The Lord commanded ancient Israel not to intermarry with the idolatrous nations around them: ‘Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.’ The reason is given. Infinite Wisdom, foreseeing the result of such unions, declares: ‘For they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.’ ‘For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto Himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.’ [Deuteronomy 7:3, 4, 6.]” Ibid., 61, 62.

“Risking the Enjoyments of Heaven.—‘Can two walk together, except they be agreed?’ ‘If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.’ [Amos 3:3; Matthew 18:19.] But how strange the sight! While one of those so closely united is engaged in devotion, the other is indifferent and careless; while one is seeking the way to everlasting life, the other is in the broad road to death.

“Hundreds have sacrificed Christ and heaven in consequence of marrying unconverted persons. Can it be that the love and fellowship of Christ are of so little value to them that they prefer the companionship of poor mortals? Is heaven so little esteemed that they are willing to risk its enjoyments for one who has no love for the precious Saviour?” Ibid., 66, 67.

Overview

Are you having problems? Are you wavering in commitment? Are you thinking that your marriage may have been a big mistake? Are you becoming friendly with a member of the opposite sex? Perhaps even attracted and a little infatuated? Have you “had it” with the way your spouse treats you? Are you dying inside from loneliness, lack of love, affection, acceptance, respect, or understanding? Are you now finding your mate to be totally unattractive? Is your mate not meeting your basic needs and making no effort to do so?

Seek help for your marriage problems, first from God and second from a wise Christian counselor. Stay committed to your marriage and trust God to work. Put your duty to God and the interests of your children before your own happiness. God did not promise that our lives would be easy and our circumstances always wonderful. Sometimes we must suffer for Christ; yet, relying on Him, we can give thanks in all things and rejoice always. Do not allow your commitment to your marriage to waiver. May you be found by God to be a faithful servant—one who will be more concerned about God’s glory than your own happiness, and one who will obey God and do your duty as a husband or wife, however difficult it may become.

An Unshakable Commitment

We should all enter into marriage taking our vows very seriously and seeking to please God with our marriage. Divorce should not be seen as a possible means of escape. No matter what the problems may be, how bad the relationship may become, or how strongly you may be attracted to another, purpose that you will keep your commitment to a lifelong marriage, that you will not give up, and that you will continue to work at your marriage, weathering whatever storms may come.

For the sake of God’s name, your Christian testimony, your children, and your honor and integrity, determine that you will keep this commitment and do all you can to please God regarding your marriage.

What sort of commitment should you make to your marriage? I would suggest one that includes the following elements:

  1. You will not seek to escape from your marriage.
  2. You will not look for another, and you will run from any temptation towards infidelity. You will be very careful about any interactions with the opposite sex that could possibly lead you into temptation or provoke the jealousy of your spouse.
  3. You will work at your marriage to make it as good as you can, for your children, for your wife or husband, and lastly for yourself.
  4. You will not give up on your marriage, knowing God can change both you and your spouse.
  5. If you do not feel love, you nevertheless, by conscious decision, will decide to love, whatever you may feel. Your actions and words will be loving.
  6. You will confess past wrongs and work to make amends and to restore any broken areas of your marriage relationship.

Conclusion

Christian marriage needs to be stable and permanent; it needs to be built upon the foundation of an unconditional, mutual covenant commitment that will not allow anything or anyone “to put asunder” the marital union established by God. To accept this Biblical view of marriage as a sacred covenant means to be willing to make total, exclusive, continuing, and growing commitments to our marriage partners. Such commitments are not easy or trouble free. Just as our covenantal commitments to God require obedience to the principles embodied in the Ten Commandments, so our covenantal commitments to our marriage partners demand obedience to the principles of the Ten Commandments that are applicable to our marriage relationships.

There is no other way to enter into the joys of Christian marriage than by assuming its covenantal obligations. When we commit ourselves to honor our marriage covenants of mutual faithfulness “till death do us part,” then we experience how God is mysteriously able to unite two lives into “one flesh.” Honoring our marriage covenant is fundamental to the stability of our family, church, and society.

Domingo Nunez is Director of Outreach Ministry for Steps to Life.

Commitment to Your Lifework

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Week of Prayer for Monday

One of the first questions many of us ask, when meeting someone new, is, “What do you do?” The response often details the job where the person is working or a career path he or she is pursuing. As small talk, this is simply a time filler, yet the question begs a more comprehensive, in-depth answer. The larger answer includes what we do and who we are before God, ourselves, and others. These are listed in order of priority and importance. When they are shifted out of order, they tend to cause confusion and problems in the life. For a term to describe this, we will use the word lifework. This word quite readily brings to mind a great work, accomplishment, fame, or fortune that many may not ever experience in their lifetimes. However, let us look at what it is from God’s perspective and what we are called to as a lifework.

God’s Purpose

“Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called [thee] by thy name; thou [art] mine.” “[Even] every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.” Isaiah 43:1, 7. These verses remind us that we are precious; we are called by God. He knows our names and uses them, and He has a purpose for each one of us for His glory.

God’s call on the life includes the entrusting of abilities, aptitudes, capabilities, gifts, and talents. “The specific place appointed us in life is determined by our capabilities. Not all reach the same development or do with equal efficiency the same work. God does not expect the hyssop to attain the proportions of the cedar, or the olive the height of the stately palm. But each should aim just as high as the union of human with divine power makes it possible for him to reach.” Education, 267.

God gives as He requires. He does not ask us to do something for which He has not fitted us or given us the opportunity to learn or to become. However, to follow Him requires the sacrifice of our wills, our plans, and our desires for His glory and, ultimately, for our good. “Many do not become what they might, because they do not put forth the power that is in them. They do not, as they might, lay hold on divine strength. Many are diverted from the line in which they might reach the truest success. Seeking greater honor or a more pleasing task, they attempt something for which they are not fitted. Many a man whose talents are adapted for some other calling, is ambitious to enter a profession; and he who might have been successful as a farmer, an artisan, or a nurse, fills inadequately the position of a minister, a lawyer, or a physician. There are others, again, who might have filled a responsible calling, but who, for want of energy, application, or perseverance, content themselves with an easier place.” Ibid.

Deciding on a lifework may be easy for some and more challenging for others. I have met many people who will quickly say, “I do not have any talents, not like someone else has.” The greatest obstacle in putting to use the special gifts God has given is not accepting them as the blessings they are and not using them as He has planned for our lives. Each and every one of us has received at least one gift, as shown in the parable of the talents. The one who had the least of all still had a talent that he was expected to use. (Matthew 25:14–29.)

The Bible says that each man is given a measure of faith and grace. “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” Romans 12:3. “But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” Ephesians 4:7. These two gifts will help you on your way to accepting the fact that God has given you talents and has a plan for how you may use them. So recognize, be grateful, and give thanks to the Giver of the finest gifts. Above all, use them for His glory.

When choosing a career or direction for lifework, Ellen White gives four simple directions to follow: “We need to follow more closely God’s plan of life. To do our best in the work that lies nearest, to commit our ways to God, and to watch for the indications of His providence—these are rules that ensure safe guidance in the choice of an occupation.” Ibid. [Emphasis supplied.] As we follow, God, who has led His people in the past, will continue to lead His people today.

Remain Focused

The second part of our original answer pertains to what we do and who we are before ourselves. The qualifier here is that “in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 11 Corinthians 5:17. The old man wants to use the abilities, aptitudes, capabilities, gifts, and talents for his own use, honor, and glory. Truly this means the old man must die and the new man, under the authority and leadership of God, uses each of these things for God’s glory. When this occurs, the life is radically refocused, but the abilities, aptitudes, capabilities, gifts, and talents do not change.

Before his conversion, Paul, as Saul of Tarsus, was zealous for God’s glory in his preaching and teaching. He was very persuasive, as he was able to obtain letters to search out and destroy the sect called the Way. (See Acts 9.) After meeting Christ on the road to Damascus, he was still zealous for God’s glory, teaching and preaching—although the heresy he began to try to destroy was pulling down the strongholds so men and women could be free to follow the Christ that he knew. He refocused his abilities and God-given talents.

Paul was an example of being true to self both before and after his conversion by following his convictions. We must do the same before God and ourselves, to know and to follow our own personal convictions. If we do not, confusion will darken our paths and our ways will be difficult. Being true to one’s self in Christ helps us to remain focused and able to perform that to which He calls us.

Hired Servants

Today, we serve not as slaves but as hired servants. We study and learn in a variety of settings—at home, school, college, and university—and then enter the world of work. As hired servants, we serve for financial remuneration and gain. “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” 11 Thessalonians 3:10. Paul encouraged people to be financially responsible for themselves and then to set aside extra to help those who could not do for themselves: “Upon the first [day] of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as [God] hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by [your] letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.” 1 Corinthians 16:2, 3. He also spoke to employees about how to serve: “Servants, obey in all things [your] masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:22–24.

In Ministry

Another place we are to serve is in the area of ministry, using our special gifts. Sometimes God has a wonderful sense of humor, as He places us in connection with those who may give us of their gifts and bring out our unique gifts.

Several years ago, I was involved in a health class ministry with three women who had very different gifts and abilities. One had taught home economics, enjoyed quilting, and was a secretary. Another, also a secretary, was very skilled in organization. The third woman had worked with her husband as a fence builder but was retired and liked to quilt. I also had studied home economics but had finished my degree in nursing and was working as a surgical nurse. Each of us had a common desire to share information about the gift of health with others, yet, as you may imagine, we approached our mutual goal in a variety of ways.

My organized friend regularly requested that the recipes to be presented be tried and tested before each class. She also wanted the written recipes in plenty of time to have them typed and neatly arranged. This was a challenge for me, because I would get too busy and then forget what I had promised to have ready for her. The other two ladies always took care of things on time. Who needed to change? When I realized that my organized friend was only trying to make this experience easier on all of us by being prepared and having handouts and talks ready for our programs, I became a better part of the team. It worked like a charm! It required discipline to do it, but I was able to grow and then work on my organizational skills in other areas, because of her example and friendship.

We all enjoyed many years of friendship and growing in grace as we ministered together. Each of us remained true to our own purposes and passions, yet we had the opportunity to try out and practice new skills. Both my organized friend and fence builder friend learned to present information and give talks before the class attendees, instead of staying behind the scenes. My other friend encouraged us to upgrade our presentations with the purchase of a demonstration mirror, which the fence builder friend mounted to a cabinet on wheels. The two friends who quilted also encouraged me to try my hand at quilting. God certainly blessed our friendships and expanded our talents in ways I had not expected.

Relationships

The third part of the question about what we do and who we are is addressed by our relationships to others. We enter this world as a son or a daughter, as a brother or a sister, grow, have friends, attend school, get a job, and perhaps marry. Each of our lives continually interacts with others. Some interactions may be positive and encouraging; others may be negative and discouraging, but when we keep in mind our call to God and stay true to self, we can seek help and healing when we need it.

Gifts and talents given by God are often recognized early in life and hopefully encouraged. If encouraged, the child and the gift will grow strong and courageous, exercising and stretching so the gift becomes a blessing to the child and to others. When discouragement is given, the gift may be hidden behind a curtain of pain, and it may take years, if ever, to resurface. Sadly, when the call of God or lifework is put on hold, the individual is not the only one who loses out on God’s blessing. Jesus was ever the encourager of children, saying, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:14. The gifts He gives to His children, both young and old, He desires to see grow and flourish.

First Home

Our first home is the earliest place in which we have opportunity to grow in grace and advance our gifts. God thought of this when He gave us His Law. The first commandment with promise is the fifth commandment: “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12. In our first home, we learn responsibility and service under the teaching and watchful eyes of our parents.

“Honor, the foundation from which all other elements of Christian character arise, refers primarily to a condition of the heart and mind, an inner attitude that inevitably manifests itself in outer words, action and demeanor. Honor expresses the genuine and deep veneration within the child’s heart (or anyone’s heart) toward those to whom honor is due. It recognizes our indebtedness, our obligation, to those whom we honor. It expresses the value we place upon them, since if we value them, we will pay attention to them and spend time for them.” Blair Adams, Building Christian Character, Truth Forum, Austin, Texas, 1988, 13. Parents who train children to be upright are blessed and bless others.

Variety of Gifts

As we grow up and mature, we should recognize more ways to serve others as we see a wider variety of gifts. Many and varied are the gifts that He gives. We are to recognize each one and be thankful for it. These include the gifts of the Holy Spirit: “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, [let us wait] on [our] ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness.” Romans 12:6–8. “For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another [divers] kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.” 1 Corinthians 12:8–11. “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11, 12.

In her book, Christ’s Object Lessons, 325–365, Ellen White lists these gifts and more, which include mental faculties, speech, influence, time, health, strength, money, kindly impulses, and affections. Have we not all been given some portion of each of these gifts? We are responsible before God as to how we use, share, increase, or abuse these talents that He has given.

“The special gifts of the Spirit are not the only talents represented in the parable [of the talents]. It includes all gifts and endowments, whether original or acquired, natural or spiritual. All are to be employed in Christ’s service. In becoming His disciples, we surrender ourselves to Him with all that we are and have. These gifts He returns to us purified and ennobled, to be used for His glory in blessing our fellow men.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 328.

Paul, writing to a young man named Timothy, said, “Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.” [1 Timothy 4:14.] In other words, “I remind you to stir up—rekindle, as a fire—the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands.” In the home, a most wonderful opportunity is available to parents in the practice of praying for, laying hands on, and blessing the children. (See Genesis 49.)

Recognize the Giver

Service to our fellowman by using our abilities, aptitudes, capabilities, gifts, and talents is harmonized with a desire to share with others the recognition of the Giver of the gifts. “Love and loyalty to Christ are the spring of all true service. In the heart touched by His love, there is begotten a desire to work for Him. Let this desire be encouraged and rightly guided. Whether in the home, the neighborhood, or the school, the presence of the poor, the afflicted, the ignorant, or the unfortunate should be regarded, not as a misfortune, but as affording precious opportunity for service.

“In this work, as in every other, skill is gained in the work itself. It is by training in the common duties of life and in ministry to the needy and suffering, that efficiency is assured.” Education, 268.

“In this closing work of the gospel there is a vast field to be occupied; and, more than ever before, the work is to enlist helpers from the common people. Both the youth and those older in years will be called from the field, from the vineyard, and from the workshop, and sent forth by the Master to give His message. Many of these have had little opportunity for education; but Christ sees in them qualifications that will enable them to fulfill His purpose. If they put their hearts into the work, and continue to be learners, He will fit them to labor for Him.” Ibid., 269, 270.

Full Circle

As men and women labor for the Master, they will seek souls for the kingdom of God. “By living to minister for others, man is brought into connection with Christ. The law of service becomes the connecting link which binds us to God and to our fellow men.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 326.

This brings us full circle. The lifework for which we are responsible is to live for God, to be true to ourselves, and to live in service for others, pointing the way to salvation and heaven. Lifework is more than what we do; it is truly who we are and the legacy we leave behind for Christ. It includes our careers, abilities, aptitudes, capabilities, gifts, and talents, and how we use each of these in developing a Christlike character.

Listen for the voice that calls your name and bids, “Come up higher, and follow Me.” Follow on to the place of peace with Him, and you will find quietness in being true to yourself and the most exciting adventure in serving others and seeking to bring them to the kingdom.

Paula Currey is a surgical nurse, working in a Wichita, Kansas, hospital.

Levity and Cheerfulness

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Proper communication is a part of the Christian experience. It is a skill, and one that is not easily mastered. The use of the voice can quickly become a tool of Satan by speaking untrue, foolish, or hasty words. One of the most common ways Christians abuse the talent of speech is by joking, jesting, and using levity.

In Titus 2, Paul says, “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, . . . The aged women likewise, that . . . they may teach the young women to be sober. . . . Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded . . . [showing] uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned.” Here is unquestionable evidence concerning how we should talk and act.

Ellen White wrote: “Let all who would form a right character choose associates who are of a serious, thoughtful turn of mind and who are religiously inclined.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 588. Not only should we talk and act soundly, but we should also have companions who share a similar standard.

In another writing, Mrs. White plainly stated just how serious this is: “Nothing can more effectually prevent or banish serious impressions and good desires than association with vain, careless, and corrupt-minded persons. Whatever attractions such persons may possess by their wit, sarcasm, and fun, the fact that they treat religion with levity and indifference is sufficient reason why they should not be associated with. The more engaging they are in other respects, the more should their influence be dreaded as companions, because they throw around an irreligious life so many dangerous attractions.” Ibid., vol. 3, 126.

Concerning socializing between men and women, she wrote: “Both brethren and sisters indulge in too much jovial talk when in each other’s society. Women professing godliness indulge in much jesting, joking, and laughing. This is unbecoming and grieves the Spirit of God. These exhibitions reveal a lack of true Christian refinement. They do not strengthen the soul in God, but bring great darkness; they drive away the pure, refined, heavenly angels and bring those who engage in these wrongs down to a low level.” Ibid., vol. 2, 455.

Foolishness is classified with pride, blasphemy, deceit, and evil thoughts in Mark 7:22. A preacher once said that someone who says they were “just kidding” is really lying. John 8:44 says, “Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. . . . When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” And in Proverbs 26:18, 19, we read: “As a mad [man] who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death, So [is] the man [that] deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?”

As can be seen from the previous references, Christians need to be sober and use serious words. But should we never smile? Should Christians be gloomy? Mrs. White answers these questions: “We may have true Christian dignity and at the same time be cheerful and pleasant in our deportment. Cheerfulness without levity is one of the Christian graces.” Ibid., vol. 4, 62. “There is nothing gloomy in the religion of Jesus. While all lightness, trifling, and jesting, which the apostle says are not convenient, are to be studiously avoided, there is a sweet rest and peace in Jesus that will be expressed in the countenance. Christians will not be mournful, depressed, and despairing. They will be sober-minded; yet they will show to the world a cheerfulness which only grace can impart.” Review and Herald, April 15, 1884.

While we need to be serious, we also need to manifest cheerfulness in our characters. There are many things in life that are funny, but one does not need to create artificial happiness or fun. True happiness does not consist of telling jokes or clever anecdotes.

“Pure and undefiled religion is not a sentiment, but the doing of works of mercy and love. This religion is necessary to health and happiness. It enters the polluted soul-temple, and with a scourge drives out the sinful intruders. Taking the throne, it consecrates all by its presence, illuminating the heart with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. It opens the windows of the soul heavenward, letting in the sunshine of God’s love. With it comes serenity and composure. Physical, mental, and moral strength increase, because the atmosphere of heaven, as a living, active agency, fills the soul. Christ is formed within, the hope of glory.” Review and Herald, October 15, 1901.

May Noah writes from her home in Aitkin, Minnesota, where she lives with her sister and father. She may be contacted by e-mail at: landmarks@stepstolife.org.