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To Pledge Allegiance

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Did you know that God requires our allegiance and that there is a special sign that shows our allegiance? Why, someone may ask, would there be a sign of loyalty to God? Surely He knows already whether or not we love Him! What kind of a sign is it? Is there a battle going on? Are there different sides to be taken? Is there a need for a sign showing which side a person is on?

Adam and Eve, in the Garden of Eden, displayed the sign of their allegiance by their choice to partake of the forbidden fruit. Perhaps it seemed arbitrary for God to pick a tree and tell them not to eat of it. It certainly did not fit into their logic. But signs of loyalty are, of necessity, arbitrary or they would not be a sign at all. Colors for flags are arbitrarily chosen and a meaning assigned to them.

Many stories have been told of patriots who have risked their lives to keep the flag flying high. The sight of the U.S. flag still bravely flying through the night at Fort McHenry, in spite of the fierce attack upon it, inspired Francis Scott Key to write the “Star Spangled Banner.” The flag could have been hauled down and a white one signifying surrender raised in its place, and the fighting would have stopped. But the courageous soldiers were not willing to give up that flag for the sake of peace. They were willing to give up life itself to remain true to their pledge of allegiance.

A flag is only a piece of cloth. There is very little real monetary value in it. Why would people risk their lives to keep a particular piece of cloth waving in the breeze above their fort? It is because the flag represents something of far more value than just the threads in the cloth. That flag proclaimed boldly to the world what they stood for. To pull it down would have signified a change in their allegiance, and they were not willing to give up their liberty.

Looking for a Sign

There was a young man a few years ago, a runaway, who found himself looking for a sign. He wanted a sign that would show him that someone loved him. He was an independent sort of fellow. He found that as he lived with his loving parents that rebellion was growing in his heart. He didn’t want to put up with the restrictions they placed on him. He didn’t like the way they always seemed to interfere in his affairs. Finally, one night, he decided he had had enough. He walked out.

He did not allow himself to think of the agony he would be leaving behind in the hearts of his parents. He was determined to have a good time. He found a job and life seemed to be going well. He had plenty of friends and no one to interfere.

After a while, however, life in the fast lane began to seem empty. He was unable to suppress thoughts of his parents. They began to seem more and more dear to him. He wondered how they were faring and tried to imagine what they thought about him. He could picture his father’s furrowed brow and almost hear his strong voice. He imagined a disapproving look on his mother’s face. “They will probably never want to see me again,” he thought.

Thoughts of home came more and more frequently until he finally decided to write a letter and see if they cared to see him again or not. Soon after writing the letter the young man boarded a train. The destination was home. He was dreadfully nervous. As he rode, he clenched and unclenched his fists. His jaw worked nervously. His stomach seemed to be tied in a knot. On the train he found himself seated by an elderly gentleman.

The older man noted the nervousness of the young man and finally struck up a conversation with him. Before long he had heard the whole story. The young man ended with, “I don’t know if they’ll ever want me back again after the way I have treated them. I can hardly stand to find out the answer.”

Sign of Love

As the train rounded a bend in the tracks, the young man suddenly stiffened. “Please, sir,” he said. “My home is just around the next bend. It is right by the tracks. I wrote to my folks and told them I would be riding by today, and that if they wanted me back to put something white in the yard. If they did not, I would know that I should just ride on by and never trouble them again. I just cannot bear to look. Please, sir, would you look for me?” The man readily agreed.

Suddenly his excited voice broke into the rhythmical clicking of the tracks. “Look, boy, look!” he nearly yelled.

The boy lifted his head. Tears sprang to his eyes and rolled down his cheeks. Every white thing in the house must have been out in that yard. The clothesline, the bushes, the trees were draped with white sheets. Snow could have done little more!

Those two parents would not have let anything stop them from showing their long lost son the sign of allegiance and love he had requested. Never did they question what the neighbors would think. It did not matter if people thought they had lost their minds. What a reunion that must have been!

Those parents had to decide whether or not to utilize their son’s choice of what the sign would be. At any other time, white sheets in the yard would have been of no value, but because he had requested it, it was meaningful. The message the son had sent was essentially, “If you love me, hang out a white sheet.”

Which Team Are You On?

A sign of allegiance is often used in physical education class in school. Each time basketball is played, new teams are chosen. All the students are dressed alike in uniforms and confusion can reign, because it is difficult to tell who is on which team. Without some kind of distinction, teammates might end up playing against themselves.

To solve this problem, “pinnies” are usually provided for all the members of one team to wear. Then it is easy to tell who is a teammate and who is not. The pinnies become a sign telling to which team the player is loyal. These pinnies are arbitrarily chosen. On any other occasion they would be quite meaningless, but on the basketball court, they represent who is on which team. Anyone wanting to be on the team with the pinnies must be willing to wear one.

The Christian life is something like the basketball team mentioned above. It isn’t always easy to tell whose side we are on. The Bible says that Satan and his teammates will disguise themselves so that they look as if they are on God’s side (2 Corinthians 11:13–15). In fact, so deceptive is Satan that many of his followers do not even know they are following him. They think they are on God’s side (Matthew 7:21–23). That is why God has done something like what a physical education teacher does. He has given us a sign by which we might know on which team we are.

The sign of our allegiance to God goes far deeper than a display of emotions, or saying a few words that anyone could repeat, or wearing a lapel pin. God says more than “If you love Me, honk your horn.”

Follow the Blueprint

The story has been told of a man who bought some land and asked his son to manage and develop it into a farm for him while he traveled. He showed his son the blueprint for the layout of the proposed farm.

The son looked over the plans with admiration. The barns would be spacious, well built, and conveniently located. The house would be a comfortable one with a lovely view. The soil looked rich, and it would have its own water supply from a well. As they strolled across the acres together, blueprint in hand, he could almost envision the finished farm nestled there among the hills. What a haven of rest it would be! It was a good plan he decided. It would be a farm with which anyone could be happy and proud. But, knowing of his son’s independent ways, the father stipulated one thing. He would hire his son to build it on condition that he build it exactly as he specified.

Happily the son agreed to take the responsibility for it and to do the best he could. He agreed to follow exactly the blueprint his father had given him.

The father left, and the son immediately set to work to develop the farm. He took hold of the project energetically, and gradually things began to take shape.

As he worked, he often consulted the plans his father had given him. Repeatedly he was impressed by his father’s wisdom in the decisions he had made. Often he remarked about how good they were. He carried them out exactly as his father had specified down to the smallest details.

More Convenient

The day came, however, when the well was to be dug. As he looked at the plans, a puzzled expression appeared on his face. “I wonder,” he mused, “why Father put the well so far from the house? It will be such a long walk to go clear out there by the barn. He must not have realized what a difficulty that will be. Perhaps it’s been a long time since he had to carry the water in himself!” After considering it for some time, he finally decided to change the location of the well. He was certain that his father would be pleased with his decision when he understood why the change had been made.

Finally the farm was finished. Crops were planted and the fields became a lush green. The place looked like a peaceful dream when Father finally returned. The son met him with a proud smile. “See, Father,” he said with a wave of his hand, “it’s done exactly as you said. Is it not beautiful?”

Actions Reveal Motives

Again the two ambled across the acres looking at the farm. At each place the father would stop and express his pleasure at what had been done. Finally, they got to the spot where the well should have been. A puzzled expression passed over the elderly gentleman’s face. “Why, where’s the well?” he questioned. “I thought it would have been right here. Did I make a mistake?”

“Oh, no,” the son replied. “The well is right over there by the house.”

“By the house?” the father asked again. “I thought I planned for it to be out here by the barn.”

“Oh, yes, now I remember,” the son replied. “I noticed that. I thought it would be inconvenient to have it so far from the house, so I had them make just a minor change and dig it over there instead.”

The father looked sorrowfully at his son. “I thought you said you made everything the way I wanted it. You promised me that you would. But now I find that you did not. You did not make anything the way I wanted it. Not one thing.”

“Father!” the younger man nearly exploded. “How can you say that? I did everything the way you wanted except for the well. But I thought this would be better than the other plan. I changed only one thing. How can you say I did not do anything at all the way you wanted it?”

“It is really quite simple, Son,” the father explained. “That well is significant. It tells me that the only reason you built the rest of the farm as I specified is that you liked it that way. You happened to think my plans were good plans on the rest of the farm. But if your ideas disagreed with mine, then you followed your own way. You actually built the whole farm the way you wanted it, not the way I wanted it.”

It was a quiet pair that finished the tour of the farm. The son had little to say. His father’s words had made a deep impression. The well was indeed a sign of whether or not he loved and trusted his father enough to follow his requests even if he did not fully understand or agree with them. He had not set out with the intention of proving his lack of loyalty to his father, but his decision had revealed the hidden motives in his heart. His actions had shown what his motives had been even though the son himself had not understood his own heart.

God also makes it clear to us that our actions display the hidden motives of our hearts, even when we don’t understand them ourselves. Many times the Holy Scriptures remind us that a tree is known by its fruit. A good pear tree, at the right time, will be covered with pears. The pears reveal what kind of tree it is. So the fruits of our lives reveal where our loyalties really are and whether or not we are abiding in Jesus.

An Unusual Sign

The Bible tells the story of a battle in which Israel was involved. After the war a most unusual sign was used to determine who was friend or foe.

The Ammonites had declared war on Israel. They were determined to get control of some land they were accusing Israel of having taken from them. Israel began looking for a leader, and finally decided to make a man named Jephthah captain over their armies.

As Jephthah took control of the situation, he first tried negotiating with the Ammonites. He reminded the king of the history of how the land was actually obtained in the first place. When it was apparent that the Ammonites were going to fight anyway, Jephthah recruited all the help that he could. With a prayer in his heart and making a solemn vow to God, he led his army to battle.

When the war was finished, Jephthah had won a resounding victory. Jephthah was then made a judge over Israel.

A strange thing happened after the war, however. Things were just beginning to settle back to normal when a messenger from the tribe of Ephraim, one of the tribes of Israel, gave Jephthah a terrible message.

“Why did not you call us to help you fight the Ammonites?” they challenged. “Since you did not, we are going to burn your house down on top of you.” This was no idle threat. The men of Ephraim were irate. They had banded together to attack the city of Gilead, where Jephthah lived. It is very likely that they were jealous because they had not been able to enrich themselves with the spoil from the battle with the Ammonites.

Jephthah responded immediately, defending his actions and setting the record straight. He reminded them that he had called them to come and help him fight the Ammonites at a time when he needed them desperately. They had flatly refused to help! “Since you did not come,” he continued, “I had no choice but to take my life in my hands. We had to go and fight the Ammonites with a much smaller army than we needed, but the Lord was with us. What grounds do you have for fighting against me?” he questioned. He probably would have felt justified in attacking the Ephraimites because of their refusal to help in a time of need.

The Ephraimites were unimpressed. They were prepared for war. Jephthah quickly marshaled his men, the Gileadites, to defend themselves against the Ephraimites. Again Jephthah was victorious. The Ephraimites fled for their lives.

When the Ephraimites fled, the Gileadites strategically placed themselves at the river crossings where the Ephraimites would have to cross to get back to their homes. Before allowing any man to cross the river they would ask, “Are you an Ephraimite?”

Naturally, no Ephraimite would want to answer “yes” for fear of losing his life, so even if the answer was “no” the Gileadites had one more question that had to be answered before anyone was allowed to cross the river.

It was a very simple question, but the answer would invariably reveal the true identity of the person being questioned. The man would be asked to repeat the word Shibboleth, a word meaning river. The Ephraimites had a little quirk in their speech that was either a difference in dialect, or a minor speech impediment like a lisp that they had inherited. They could not pronounce the sound sh. Instead of saying Shibboleth, an Ephraimite would always say Sibboleth. By this ingenious but simple test, any Ephraimite crossing the river would be identified. The test worked. The Ephraimites were not allowed to escape.

If you think about the sign that the Gileadites were looking for, it is a very unusual and significant one. The Ephraimites were not destroyed because they said Sibboleth. The problem was not that they had a lisp. The word Sibboleth only revealed who they were. They were destroyed because of who they were. They were destroyed because of what they had done. (See Judges 11; 12.)

True Allegiance to God

A sign of allegiance to God is not something we do in order to win His favor. It is not something to earn salvation. It is something that reveals who we are. It is something that reveals whether or not we have been born again. It reveals whether or not we are willing to follow Him. It is something that reveals whether or not we are abiding in Him, just as fruit reveals whether or not a branch is abiding in the vine. (See John 15.)

What does God look for as the sign of allegiance and love to Him? “I am the Lord your God; walk in my statutes, and keep my judgments, and do them; And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God.” Ezekiel 20:19, 20.

The Sabbath is the one commandment we must accept solely by faith in Jesus’ authority. Keeping it does not save us, but it demonstrates our true allegiance. Today, during the judgment, God is again bringing His people back to full obedience. Though we are not held accountable until we have an opportunity to know the truth (James 4:17), out of love for us God is again teaching us these forgotten principles, that we may not inadvertently become followers of the lawless beast. Will you show your allegiance and love to God?

Reprinted from https://www.StepstoLife.org

(April 1, 2002).

Light

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When you were a little child were you afraid of the dark? Many little children are afraid of the dark. Are you still afraid of the dark today—of spiritual darkness? You do not need to fear spiritual darkness, if you understand what the Bible says about spiritual light.

“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’” John 8:12. This is a divine promise. If we follow Jesus, the Light of the world, we will not be in the dark. We will have light that will result in having eternal life.

“In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.” John 1:4. What is this light that we receive when we follow Jesus? One of the types of spiritual light is the light of prophecy.

We Can Know the Future

“And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.” 11 Peter 1:19–21. So Bible prophecy is a light; it is like a “light that shines in a dark place.”

That is why we have prophecy seminars. That is why we study the books of Daniel and Revelation, which were written especially for the last days—so we will understand the light given for the times in which we are living, so we will understand history, the present time, and also the future. The past, the present, and the future are all outlined in prophecy. If you study prophecy, you will not be surprised by what is coming on the world.

“But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape. But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.” 1 Thessalonians 5:1–5.

The apostle Paul is telling us that the people of this world, those who do not understand Bible prophecy, are going to go along and, all of a sudden, the second coming of Christ is going to occur; this world will end, and it will come as an overwhelming surprise to them.

People will be going on about their daily lives as usual. Jesus said that there would be marrying and giving in marriage. He said that it would be like it was in the days of Lot. People will be planting, building, working, planning, eating, carousing, and having a good time. It will be as the days of Noah. He and his family entered the ark, and unexpectedly, to those outside of the ark, the rain and the flood came and destroyed them all. (See Matthew 24:37–39; Luke 17:26–30.)

We Need Not Be Surprised

Paul says that is not going to happen to you, not to the Christian, because you are a child of the light. You have Bible prophecy, and you know what is coming. It will not come on you as a thief.

Prophecy is a light. In Revelation 19:10, we read, “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” And Jesus is the Light of the world, so what He tells His prophets is light, because it comes from Him. Something else in the Bible is referred to as spiritual light. This is plainly stated in the book of Proverbs.

“For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.” Proverbs 6:23. The law, God’s law, is a light.

Physical and Spiritual Darkness

Some years ago I was working with an evangelist who told me an experience he had during World War II. Back in those days there were no freeways, just two lane roads. He was pulling a trailer with his car at night, and it was very dark. He said, “We were going along about 50 or 55 miles an hour when suddenly all the lights of my car went out. I could not see a thing.” That is a frightening position in which to find one’s self.

When I was returning to college one time with a friend, he tried to pass a road grader, that was plowing snow, on the right hand side. From behind the snowplow we could see right through the snow it was throwing to the side of the road. We could see the road ahead clearly. But once my friend started to pass, and we were under the snow being thrown, in about a split second the car was covered with a foot or more of snow, and we could not see a thing. There we were with the road grader just about 3 feet from us on the left and on the right hand side a drop off of about 200 feet! I am thankful to the Lord that He helped us get our car stopped before we ran into something.

It is dangerous to be in a car, going pell-mell down the road, and all of a sudden to be unable to see. That is similar to what happens to people when they do not have the law. They do not have any light; they are in the dark because the law is light.

What does the law do for your home? It can save your marriage. Read the seventh and the tenth commandments. (See Exodus 20:14, 17.) What does the law do for your relationship with your family, with your parents? Read the fifth commandment. It can save it! (See Exodus 20:12.) What does the law do for your relationship with God? (See Exodus 20:3–7.) There are some people who are so busy making a living that they work seven days a week and have no time for God. In fact, right now there are people admitted into hospitals around the world who overworked for so many years that their bodies finally could not take it. But that does not have to happen to you. If you read the fourth commandment in the law, there is provision for your rest.

Sabbath, a Rest

God said, “One day a week you do not have to work.” In fact, in the law the Lord gave instruction that nobody had to work—not just the men. Men, you know how we are. We would probably rest on the Sabbath and allow our wives to work. But God knew what we were like, and he drew a line for the women as well as for the men. He directed that our cooking for Sabbath should be done on Friday and that we should not be doing housework or any secular things on the Sabbath. That is the day to rest.

The children are included also. Read the fourth commandment. (See Exodus 20:8–11.) It includes your son, your daughter and all your servants. It includes everybody in human society.

The law is a light. God’s word is a light, a spiritual light that keeps you from trouble. That is what light always does in darkness—it shows you where to go; it keeps you out of danger. God’s word is like a light.

The psalmist talks about this. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” “The entrance of Your word gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:105, 130. The word of God gives people light so that they understand where they came from, why they are here, and where they are going.

Light has Come!

That is what light does. It reveals where you are, where you have come from and where you are going. We are living in a time described in Isaiah 60, a chapter that actually is a prophecy concerning the last days. “Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord hath risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth. And deep darkness the people; But the Lord will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you.” Isaiah 60:1, 2. What is this deep darkness that covers the earth and the people? They do not have the light of God’s word.

We are living in a time, the Bible says, when there is darkness all over the earth and gross darkness on the people. People do not know that they are designed to live forever and that they can be sons and daughters of God. They do not know their origin. They think they came from a monkey or a mollusk or something. They do not know how they got here. They do not know why they are here. And they certainly do not know where they are going.

They are in the dark. But Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me you will not be in the dark. You will be able to see where you are going.” John 8:12. Are you in the light? If you are studying God’s word and His law, you will have light. You will know where you came from, why you are here, and where you are going.

The Bible tells us that the path the righteous people walk in will be a path of light. “The path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.” Proverbs 4:18. Follow the light and, as you follow, it will grow brighter and brighter.

What does it mean to walk in the light? We talk about it; we read Bible texts saying that the path of the just is as a shining light that gets brighter and brighter, but what does it mean in simple language to walk in the light?

Do not Hide Light

“But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bond-servants for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”
11 Corinthians 4:3–6.

Notice, the light has to do with the knowledge of God, and this knowledge of God is shining in the face of Jesus Christ. It is the light of the gospel, of the glory of God, and of the knowledge of God. What is this light that shines in the face of Jesus Christ? Let us see what the Bible says.

The apostle John writes a great deal in all of his writings about this subject. “This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:5–7.

So nobody will misunderstand, he makes it even plainer and simpler than that: “Again, a new commandment I write to you, which thing is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining. He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him. But he who hates his brother is in darkness and walks in darkness and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.” 1 John 2:8–11.

What does it mean to walk in the light? It means that all the hatred, the bitterness, the animosity, the strife, and the negative emotions have been taken out of my heart, and I love my brother. I do not hate him any more. That proves that I am walking in the light. In fact, when Jesus was here, he said, “You have heard that you are to love your neighbor and hate your enemy, but I say to you, you should love your enemy.” Matthew 5:43, 44.

We Should Love Light

If we are walking in the light, we will love our brother. “We know we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death. Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” 1 John 3:14–18.

That is the test. It is a test that we each are to apply to our heart and ask ourselves the question, do I not only love my brother but also do I love in deed as well as in tongue or word? It is the test that the apostle John brings to bear upon our hearts over and over again when we read his writings. He says, “This is the way you can tell whether you are walking in the light or whether you are actually in darkness.”

The light of the knowledge of God that shines in the face of Jesus Christ, that Paul talked about, is the light of self-sacrificing love. Have you seen the light? You see the light when you study the life of Christ. His whole life was a revelation of self-sacrificing love. As you study it, you are looking at the spiritual light.

Most people in Christ’s day and most people today refuse to walk in the light. They may see the light. They may like the light. They may say they are the children of the light. But they will not walk in it.

Keep up With the Light

Just a few days before Jesus’ crucifixion He said, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of the light.” John 12:35, 36.

Jesus cautioned that if you do not walk in the light you have, the light will go away, and you will be left in darkness. In other words, the light is moving. Have you ever been around a moving light? If the light is moving, you have to walk in it. Otherwise, if you stay where you are, eventually you will be in the dark.

The righteous walk in the path where the light gets brighter and brighter until the perfect day. But what if you will not walk? What if you say, “I have the light now. I will stay right here!” What happens then?

“The days are fast approaching when there will be great perplexity and confusion. Satan, clothed in angel robes, will deceive, if possible, the very elect. There will be gods many and lords many. Every wind of doctrine will be blowing. Those who have rendered supreme homage to ‘science, falsely so called,’ will not be the leaders then. Those who have trusted to intellect, genius, or talent will not stand at the head of rank and file. They did not keep pace with the light.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 80.

Light Will Depart

Did you see the problem? The light was shining, but they did not keep pace with it, and it went out. How is it in your life? If you know the truth and you do not follow it, Jesus said the light will go out, and you will be in the dark.

When Jesus came, there was a greater flood of spiritual light poured upon the world than at any previous time, but the majority of the people rejected the light. Do you know that the same thing that happened in Jesus’ day has been happening ever since?

Ellen White wrote: “The Spirit of God is departing from many among our people. Many have entered into dark, secret paths, and some will never return. They will continue to stumble to their ruin. They have tempted God, they have rejected light. All the evidence that will ever be given them they have received, and have not heeded. They have chosen darkness rather than light, and have defiled their souls.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, vol. 3, 1335.

“As the light and life of men was rejected by the ecclesiastical authorities in the days of Christ, so it has been rejected in every succeeding generation. Again and again the history of Christ’s withdrawal from Judea has been repeated. When the Reformers preached the word of God, they had no thought of separating themselves from the established church; but the religious leaders would not tolerate the light, and those that bore it were forced to seek another class, who were longing for the truth. In our day few of the professed followers of the Reformers are actuated by their spirit. Few are listening for the voice of God, and ready to accept truth in whatever guise it may be presented. Often those who follow in the steps of the Reformers are forced to turn away from the churches they love, in order to declare the plain teaching of the word of God. And many times those who are seeking for light are by the same teaching obliged to leave the church of their fathers, that they may render obedience.” The Desire of Ages, 232.

If you walk in the light, you are not just looking at the light, you are starting to do the same things yourself. You are starting to follow in the same path of light. The One who is the Light will walk with you and never forsake you. Do you want to have that experience of walking in the light, walking according to the commandments of the Lord, walking according to the light of Bible prophecy, following the example of Jesus in your life so that you will love your brethren, even your enemies? You know, friends, we have to be walking in the light, if we are going to go to heaven. There will not be a single person in heaven that has turned his back on any light that God has shown him. The only people there will be walking in all the light they had. Ask God to help you walk in the light.

[Bible texts quoted are literal translation.]

Editorial – Hardships

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In August 1868, Ellen White had a dream that is recorded in Testimonies, vol. 2, 594–597. In this dream, part of a large body of people began a journey in heavily loaded wagons. The road ascended. On one side was a high, smooth, white wall; on the other side was a precipice. As the road grew both narrower and steeper, they, for safety, abandoned the wagons and traveled on by horseback with only a portion of their luggage. But the path grew still narrower, and finally they cut the luggage from the horses and continued. When the road became too dangerous for traveling by horseback, a hand seemed to take the bridle and guide them over the perilous way at the places where it seemed they would lose their balance. The road eventually became so narrow that they left the horses behind and traveled on by foot single file, each following in the footsteps of another. Finally it was decided that to travel safely they would have to take off their shoes and then also their stockings, and they journeyed on with bare feet.

At this point in relating the dream, Ellen White said: “We then thought of those who had not accustomed themselves to privations and hardships. Where were such now? They were not in the company. At every change some were left behind, and those only remained who had accustomed themselves to endure hardships. The privations of the way only made these more eager to press on to the end.” Ibid., 595.

Many are not in the revival and reformation movement that were with us a few years ago. The dream partly related above explains why. We have not yet come to the last change! Will you still be in the revival and reformation movement next year? Will you still be in it when Jesus comes?

Hardships have always been, and always will be, a part of evangelism: “The opening labors of the Christian church were attended with hardships and bitter griefs, and the successors of the early apostles find that they must meet with trials similar to theirs; privations, calumny, and every species of opposition meet them in their labors. They must be men of stanch moral courage and of spiritual muscle.” Gospel Workers, 1892, 71, 72.

“The Christian life is compared to the life of a soldier, and there can be no bribes presented of ease and self-indulgence. The idea that Christian soldiers are to be excused from the conflicts, experiencing no trials, having all temporal comforts to enjoy, and even the luxuries of life, is a farce. The Christian conflict is a battle and a march, calling for endurance. Difficult work has to be done, and all who enlist as soldiers in Christ’s army with these false ideas of pleasantness and ease, and then experience the trials, it often proves fatal to their Christianity. God does not present the reward to those whose whole life in this world has been one of self-indulgence and pleasure.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 14, 27, 28.

Bible Study Guides – God’s New World Order

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September 22–28, 2002

MEMORY VERSE: “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.” Isaiah 65:17.

SUGGESTED READING: The Great Controversy, 662–678; Prophets and Kings, 729–733.

INTRODUCTION: “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away. . . . And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” Revelation 21:1, 2.

“And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.” Revelation 21:23.

“Between the school established in Eden at the beginning and the school of the hereafter there lies the whole compass of this world’s history—the history of human transgression and suffering, of divine sacrifice, and of victory over death and sin. Not all the conditions of that first school of Eden will be found in the school of the future life. No tree of knowledge of good and evil will afford opportunity for temptation. No tempter is there, no possibility of wrong. Every character has withstood the testing of evil, and none are longer susceptible to its power.” Education, 301.

1 For what purpose did God originally create the earth? Isaiah 45:18.

NOTE: “In the creation it was His purpose that the earth be inhabited by beings whose existence should be a blessing to themselves and to one another, and an honor to their Creator. All who will may identify themselves with this purpose. Of them it is spoken, ‘This people have I formed for Myself; they shall show forth My praise.’ Isaiah 43:21.” Education, 173.

2 What events will bring to an end the present world order? 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17; 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52; Revelation 20:5, 9; 2 Peter 3:9–12.

NOTE: “Christ is coming with clouds and with great glory. A multitude of shining angels will attend Him. He will come to raise the dead, and to change the living saints from glory to glory. He will come to honor those who have loved Him, and kept His commandments, and to take them to Himself. He has not forgotten them nor His promise. There will be a relinking of the family chain. When we look upon our dead, we may think of the morning when the trump of God shall sound, when ‘the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.’ 1 Corinthians 15:52. A little longer, and we shall see the King in His beauty. A little longer, and He will wipe all tears from our eyes. A little longer, and He will present us ‘faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.’ Jude 24. Wherefore, when He gave the signs of His coming He said, ‘When these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.’” The Desire of Ages, 632.

3 What are we told about God’s new world order? 2 Peter 3:13; Matthew 5:5; Proverbs 11:31. Compare Isaiah 65:17.

NOTE: “The meek ‘shall inherit the earth.’ It was through the desire for self-exaltation that sin entered into the world, and our first parents lost the dominion over this fair earth, their kingdom. It is through self-abnegation that Christ redeems what was lost. And He says we are to overcome as He did. Revelation 3:21. Through humility and self-surrender we may become heirs with Him when ‘the meek shall inherit the earth.’ Psalm 37:11.

“The earth promised to the meek will not be like this, darkened with the shadow of death and the curse. [2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 22:3 quoted.]

“There is no disappointment, no sorrow, no sin, no one who shall say, I am sick; there are no burial trains, no mourning, no death, no partings, no broken hearts; but Jesus is there, peace is there. There ‘they shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for He that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall He guide them.’ Isaiah 49:10.” Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 17.

4 Why is it impossible to adequately describe the new heaven and earth? 1 Corinthians 2:9.

NOTE: “Paul had a view of heaven, and in discoursing on the glories there, the very best thing he could do was to not try to describe them. He tells us that eye had not seen nor ear heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for those that love Him. So you may put your imagination to the stretch, you may try to the very best of your abilities to take in and consider the eternal weight of glory, and yet your finite senses, faint and weary with the effort, cannot grasp it, for there is an infinity beyond. It takes all of eternity to unfold the glories and bring out the precious treasures of the Word of God.” Sermons and Talks, vol. 1, 73.

5 What was Isaiah inspired to tell us about the new earth? Isaiah 65:17–19; 35:1, 2.

NOTE: “In the Bible the inheritance of the saved is called a country. There the heavenly Shepherd leads His flock to fountains of living waters. The tree of life yields its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree are for the service of the nations. There are ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, and beside them waving trees cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed of the Lord.

“The grass will be a living green, and will never wither. There will be roses and lilies and all kinds of flowers there. They will never blight or fade or lose their beauty and fragrance.” My Life Today, 354.

6 In what activities will the saints participate in heaven? Isaiah 65:21, 22.

NOTE: “In the earth made new the redeemed will engage in the occupations and pleasures that brought happiness to Adam and Eve in the beginning. The Eden life will be lived, the life in garden and field. [Isaiah 65:21, 22 quoted.]

“There every power will be developed, every capability increased. The grandest enterprises will be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations will be reached, the highest ambitions realized. And still there will arise new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects to call forth the powers of body and mind and soul.” The Adventist Home, 549.

7 How does the prophet Isaiah describe living conditions in the new earth? Isaiah 65:23, 24; 32:18; 33:24.

NOTE: “In the City of God ‘there shall be no night.’ None will need or desire repose. There will be no weariness in doing the will of God and offering praise to His name. We shall ever feel the freshness of the morning and shall ever be far from its close. ‘And they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light.’ Revelation 22:5. The light of the sun will be superseded by a radiance which is not painfully dazzling, yet which immeasurably surpasses the brightness of our noontide. The glory of God and the Lamb floods the Holy City with unfading light. The redeemed walk in the sunless glory of perpetual day.” The Great Controversy, 676.

“Christ came to restore to its original loveliness a world ruined by sin. . . . In the new earth there will be no sin nor disease. . . . And the body will be restored to its original perfection. We shall wear the spotless image of our Lord. . . .” My Life Today, 153.

8 Where will God’s dwelling place be and how is it described? Revelation 21:1–4; 22:1–5.

NOTE: “God’s original purpose in the creation of the earth is fulfilled as it is made the eternal abode of the redeemed. . . .

“God created the earth to be the abode of holy, happy beings. That purpose will be fulfilled when, renewed by the power of God and freed from sin and sorrow, it shall become the eternal home of the redeemed.” The Adventist Home, 540.

“There is the New Jerusalem, ‘having the glory of God,’ her light ‘like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal.’ Revelation 21:11. Saith the Lord, ‘I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in My people.’ Isaiah 65:19.” The Story of Redemption, 431.

9 How will the regular system of worship be carried on in the new earth? Isaiah 66:22, 23.

NOTE: “The nations of the saved will know no other law than the law of heaven. All will be a happy, united family, clothed with the garments of praise and thanksgiving. Over the scene the morning stars will sing together, and the sons of God will shout for joy. . . .

“So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun.” My Life Today, 364.

10 Who are the people who will be with Christ when He overcomes the beast power? Revelation 17:12–14.

NOTE: “Communion with Christ—how unspeakably precious! Such communion it is our privilege to enjoy if we will seek it, if we will make any sacrifice to secure it. When the early disciples heard the words of Christ, they felt their need of Him. They sought, they found, they followed Him. They were with Him in the house, at the table, in the closet, in the field. They were with Him as pupils with a teacher, daily receiving from His lips lessons of holy truth. They looked to Him as servants to their master, to learn their duty. They served Him cheerfully, gladly. They followed Him, as soldiers follow their commander, fighting the good fight of faith. ‘And they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful.’” Testimonies, vol. 5, 223.

11 Through what relationship do we inherit the promises made to God’s faithful followers? Romans 8:14, 17.

NOTE: “We are children of the heavenly King, members of the royal family, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. The mansions Jesus has gone to prepare are to receive only those who are true, who are pure, who love and obey His words. . . . If we would enjoy eternal bliss, we must cultivate religion in the home. . . . Peace, harmony, affection, and happiness should be perseveringly cherished every day, until these precious things abide in the hearts of those who compose the family.

“That which will make the character lovely in the home is that which will make it lovely in the heavenly mansions.” The Faith I Live By, 279.

12 How do we become heirs to heaven? Galatians 3:29; 2:20; Philippians 4:13.

NOTE: “Now is the time to receive grace and strength and power to combine with our human efforts that we can form characters for everlasting life. When we do this we will find that the angels of God will minister unto us, and we shall be heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. And when the last trump shall sound, and the dead shall be called from their prison house and changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the crowns of immortal glory shall be placed upon the heads of the overcomers. The pearly gates will swing back for the nations that have kept the truth and they will enter in. The conflict is ended.” In Heavenly Places, 369.

13 What assuring promises are given to those who seek this eternal inheritance? 1 John 3:1–3.

NOTE: “God regards us as His children. He has redeemed us out of the careless world and has chosen us to become members of the royal family, sons and daughters of the heavenly King. He invites us to trust in Him with a trust deeper and stronger than that of a child in his earthly father. Parents love their children, but the love of God is larger, broader, deeper, than human love can possibly be. It is immeasurable. Then if earthly parents know how to give good gifts to their children, how much more shall our Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?” Christ’s Object Lessons, 142.

14 What will bring the greatest satisfaction to the redeemed? Revelation 22:4.

NOTE: “Only by looking to Jesus, the Lamb of God, and following in His steps, can you prepare to meet God. Follow Him, and you will one day walk the golden streets of the city of God. You will see Him who laid aside His royal garments and His kingly crown, and disguising Himself with humanity, came to our world and bore our sins, that He might lift us up and give us a revelation of His glory and majesty. We shall see Him face to face if we now give ourselves up to be molded and fashioned by Him and prepared for a place in the kingdom of God.

“Those who consecrate their lives to the service of God will live with Him through the ceaseless ages of eternity. ‘God himself shall be with them, and be their God’ (Revelation 21:3). . . .

“Their minds were given to God in this world; they served Him with their heart and intellect, and now He can put His name in their foreheads. ‘And there shall be no night there; . . . for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever’ (Revelation 22:5). They do not go in as those that beg a place there, for Christ says to them, ‘Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world’ (Matthew 25:34). He takes them as His children, saying, Enter ye into the joy of your Lord. The crown of immortality is placed on the brow of the overcomers. They take their crowns and cast them at the feet of Jesus, and touching their golden harps, they fill all heaven with rich music in songs of praise to the Lamb. Then ‘they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.’” That I May Know Him, 364.

Bible Study Guides – Heart Obedience

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September 15–21, 2002

MEMORY VERSE: “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5.

SUGGESTED READING: Patriarchs and Prophets, 627–636.

INTRODUCTION: “Satan represents God’s law of love as a law of selfishness. He declares that it is impossible for us to obey its precepts. The fall of our first parents, with all the woe that has resulted, he charges upon the Creator, leading men to look upon God as the author of sin, and suffering, and death. Jesus was to unveil this deception. As one of us He was to give an example of obedience. For this He took upon Himself our nature, and passed through our experiences. ‘In all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren.’ Hebrews 2:17. If we had to bear anything which Jesus did not endure, then upon this point Satan would represent the power of God as insufficient for us. Therefore Jesus was ‘in all points tempted like as we are.’ Hebrews 4:15. He endured every trial to which we are subject. And He exercised in His own behalf no power that is not freely offered to us. As man, He met temptation, and overcame in the strength given Him from God. He says, ‘I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.’ Psalm 40:8. As He went about doing good, and healing all who were afflicted by Satan, He made plain to men the character of God’s law and the nature of His service. His life testifies that it is possible for us also to obey the law of God.” The Desire of Ages, 24.

1 How important is obedience? Romans 6:16–18.

NOTE: “Obedience is not a mere outward compliance, but the service of love. The law of God is an expression of His very nature; it is an embodiment of the great principle of love, and hence is the foundation of His government in heaven and earth. If our hearts are renewed in the likeness of God, if the divine love is implanted in the soul, will not the law of God be carried out in the life? When the principle of love is implanted in the heart, when man is renewed after the image of Him that created him, the new-covenant promise is fulfilled, ‘I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them.’ Hebrews 10:16. And if the law is written in the heart, will it not shape the life? Obedience—the service and allegiance of love—is the true sign of discipleship.” Steps to Christ, 60.

2 What kind of an example did Christ set for His followers? Philippians 2:8; 1 Peter 2:21–23.

NOTE: “In the precepts of His holy law, God has given a perfect rule of life; and He has declared that until the close of time this law, unchanged in a single jot or tittle, is to maintain its claim upon human beings. Christ came to magnify the law and make it honorable. He showed that it is based upon the broad foundation of love to God and love to man, and that obedience to its precepts comprises the whole duty of man. In His own life He gave an example of obedience to the law of God. In the Sermon on the Mount He showed how its requirements extend beyond the outward acts and take cognizance of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” The Acts of Apostles, 505.

3 What was the basic reason for Saul’s disobedience? 1 Samuel 15:23, 24. Compare John 12:42, 43.

NOTE: “Saul, after he had disobeyed the requirement of God to destroy the Amalekites, met Samuel, and said, ‘Blessed be thou of the Lord; I have performed the commandment of the Lord.’ And Samuel said, ‘What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?’ The answer was the same that we have heard in similar cases,—an excuse, a falsehood: ‘The people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God.’ Saul did not say my or our but thy God. Many who profess to be serving God are in the same position as Saul,—covering over ambitious projects, pride, or display, with a garment of pretended righteousness. The Lord’s cause is made a cloak to hide the deformity of injustice, but it makes the sin of tenfold greater enormity.” Pamphlet 028, 14.

4 Why do men take the liberty to do evil? Ecclesiastes 8:11.

NOTE: “The power of Satan, his arts and machinations,—who can know them? Those who, in defiance of all the warnings and entreaties of God’s Word, venture to indulge in sin are sleeping on the very brink of eternal ruin. Because God bears long with transgressors, of His law, because He sends them warnings and entreaties, because punishment does not immediately follow their evil deeds, they abuse His mercy and forbearance, and blindly rush on in a course of crime. When assailed by temptation, many have not moral strength to say, as did Joseph, ‘How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?’ They do not give a decided refusal to the first invitation to transgress the law of God, and soon unlawful indulgence becomes habitual, and they are ready to deny that it is a sin.” Signs of The Times, July 1, 1903.

5 Why was Moses not permitted to enter Canaan? Numbers 20:7–12.

NOTE: “‘The Lord was wroth with me for your sakes,” said Moses. The eyes of all Israel were upon Moses, and his sin cast a reflection upon God, who had chosen him as the leader of His people. The transgression was known to the whole congregation; and had it been passed by lightly, the impression would have been given that unbelief and impatience under great provocation might be excused in those in responsible positions. But when it was declared that because of that one sin Moses and Aaron were not to enter Canaan, the people knew that God is no respecter of persons, and that He will surely punish the transgressor.

“The history of Israel was to be placed on record for the instruction and warning of coming generations. Men of all future time must see the God of heaven as an impartial ruler, in no case justifying sin. But few realize the exceeding sinfulness of sin. Men flatter themselves that God is too good to punish the transgressor. But in the light of Bible history it is evident that God’s goodness and His love engage Him to deal with sin as an evil fatal to the peace and happiness of the universe.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 420.

6 Why did God destroy Nadab and Abihu? Leviticus 10:1, 2.

NOTE: “Both tobacco and liquor break down nerve force, and dull the finer perceptions, so that the slaves to these habits cannot discern between sacred and common things. An example of the demoralizing effect of intoxicants is seen in the case of Nadab and Abihu. They ventured to partake of wine before they entered the tabernacle to perform the duties of their sacred office, and the result was, they could not distinguish between common fire and that which was consecrated to the holy service. For this breach of trust they were slain. Some will say, ‘If they were intoxicated, and could not discern the difference between these fires, why should they be punished?’ When they placed the cup to their lips, they made themselves responsible for all their deeds committed while under its influence.” Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 18, 19.

7 What was the result of Uzzah’s failure to honor the sacredness of the ark? 1 Chronicles 13:9, 10.

NOTE: “The fate of Uzzah was a divine judgment upon the violation of a most explicit command. Through Moses the Lord had given special instruction concerning the transportation of the ark. None but the priests, the descendants of Aaron, were to touch it, or even to look upon it uncovered. . . .” Conflict and Courage, 176.

8 What is the importance of obedience in contrast to forms and ceremonies? Psalm 40:6; 1 Samuel 15:22, 23, first half.

NOTE: “The gospel of good news was not to be interpreted as allowing men to live in continued rebellion against God by transgressing His just and holy law. Why cannot those who claim to understand the Scriptures, see that God’s requirement under grace is just the same He made in Eden,—perfect obedience to his law. In the Judgment, God will ask those who profess to be Christians, Why did you claim to believe in My Son, and continue to transgress my law? Who required this at your hands—to trample upon my rules of righteousness? ‘Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.’ The gospel of the New Testament is not the Old Testament standard lowered to meet the sinner and save him in his sins. God requires of all his subjects obedience, entire obedience to all his commandments. He demands now as ever perfect righteousness as the only title to heaven.” Review and Herald, September 21, 1886.

9 How important is it to hear the voice of God? Isaiah 30:21; Matthew 11:15; John 10:27.

NOTE: “All who are under the training of God need the quiet hour for communion with their own hearts, with nature, and with God. In them is to be revealed a life that is not in harmony with the world, its customs, or its practices; and they need to have a personal experience in obtaining a knowledge of the will of God. We must individually hear Him speaking to the heart. When every other voice is hushed, and in quietness we wait before Him, the silence of the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. He bids us, ‘Be still, and know that I am God.’ Psalm 46:10. This is the effectual preparation for all labor for God. Amidst the hurrying throng, and the strain of life’s intense activities, he who is thus refreshed will be surrounded with an atmosphere of light and peace. He will receive a new endowment of both physical and mental strength. His life will breathe out a fragrance, and will reveal a divine power that will reach men’s hearts.” The Ministry of Healing, 58.

10 How is true obedience to be demonstrated? Psalm 40:8.

NOTE: “The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all intelligent beings depends upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all His creatures the service of love—service that springs from an appreciation of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience; and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary service.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 34.

11 How are we to regard the law of God? Psalm 119:97; Romans 7:22. Compare Hebrews 8:10.

NOTE: “In the precepts of His holy law, God has given a perfect rule of life; and He has declared that until the close of time this law, unchanged in a single jot or tittle, is to maintain its claim upon human beings. Christ came to magnify the law and make it honorable. He showed that it is based upon the broad foundation of love to God and love to man, and that obedience to its precepts comprises the whole duty of man. In His own life He gave an example of obedience to the law of God. In the Sermon on the Mount He showed how its requirements extend beyond the outward acts and take cognizance of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” The Acts of the Apostles, 505.

12 What promises are given to the obedient? Isaiah 1:19; Revelation 22:14.

NOTE: “We cannot overestimate the value of simple faith and unquestioning obedience. It is by following in the path of obedience in simple faith that the character obtains perfection (MS 5a, 1895).” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, 1137.

“The redeemed saints, who have loved God and kept His commandments here, will enter in through the gates of the city, and have right to the tree of life. They will eat freely of it as our first parents did before their fall. The leaves of that immortal widespread tree will be for the healing of the nations. All their woes will then be gone. Sickness, sorrow, and death they will never again feel, for the leaves of the tree of life have healed them. Jesus will then see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied, when the redeemed, who have been subject to sorrow, toil, and afflictions, who have groaned beneath the curse, are gathered up around that tree of life to eat of its immortal fruit, that our first parents forfeited all right to, by breaking God’s commands. There will be no danger of their ever losing right to the tree of life again, for he that tempted our first parents to sin will be destroyed by the second death.” My Life Today, 355.

Bible Study Guides – Prepare to Meet thy God

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September 8–14, 2002

MEMORY VERSE: “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

SUGGESTED READING: Early Writings, 111–116; The Great Controversy, 309–316.

INTRODUCTION: “‘Be ye also ready: for in an such hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.’ People are now settling to rest, imagining themselves secure under the popular churches; but let all beware, lest there is a place left open for the enemy to gain an entrance. Great pains should be taken to keep this subject before the people. The solemn fact is to be kept not only before the people of the world, but before our own churches also, that the day of the Lord will come suddenly, unexpectedly. The fearful warning of the prophecy is addressed to every soul. Let no one feel that he is secure from the danger of being surprised. Let no one’s interpretation of prophecy rob you of the conviction of the knowledge of events which show that this great event is near at hand.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 335.

1 Why should we be prepared at all times for the coming of Christ? Mark 13:32–36.

NOTE: “Because we know not the exact time of His coming, we are commanded to watch. ‘Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when He cometh shall find watching.’ Luke 12:37. Those who watch for the Lord’s coming are not waiting in idle expectancy. The expectation of Christ’s coming is to make men fear the Lord, and fear His judgments upon transgression. It is to awaken them to the great sin of rejecting His offers of mercy. Those who are watching for the Lord are purifying their souls by obedience to the truth. With vigilant watching they combine earnest working. Because they know that the Lord is at the door, their zeal is quickened to co-operate with the divine intelligences in working for the salvation of souls.” The Desire of Ages, 634.

2 Why does Jesus urge His people to watch and to be ready? Matthew 24:42, 44.

NOTE: “The things that concern our eternal welfare are now to absorb our attention. We cannot afford to give heavenly things the second place. . . . The judgments of God are in the land. They speak in solemn warning, saying, ‘Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.’” Maranatha, 106.

3 What should be our reaction to the signs of the times? Luke 21:28, 36.

NOTE: “The words of Jesus Christ are spoken to us living down here in the close of this earth’s history. [Luke 21:28 quoted.] The nations are in unrest. Times of perplexity are upon us. The waves of the sea are roaring; men’s hearts are failing them for fear and for expectation of those things that are coming upon the earth; but those who believe on the Son of God will hear His voice amid the storm, saying, ‘It is I; be not afraid.’ . . . We see the world lying in wickedness and apostasy. Rebellion to the commandments of God seems almost universal. Amid the tumult of excitement with confusion in every place, there is a work to be done in the world.—Manuscript 44, 1900.” Evangelism, 18.

4 What particular type of adversaries may we encounter? 2 Peter 3:3–7.

NOTE: “The world, full of rioting, full of godless pleasure, is asleep, asleep in carnal security. Men are putting afar off the coming of the Lord. They laugh at warnings. The proud boast is made, ‘All things continue as they were from the beginning.’ ‘Tomorrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant.’ 2 Peter 3:4; Isaiah 56:12. We will go deeper into pleasure loving. But Christ says, ‘Behold, I come as a thief.’ Revelation 16:15. At the very time when the world is asking in scorn, ‘Where is the promise of His coming?’ the signs are fulfilling. While they cry, ‘Peace and safety,’ sudden destruction is coming. When the scorner, the rejecter of truth, has become presumptuous; when the routine of work in the various money-making lines is carried on without regard to principle; when the student is eagerly seeking knowledge of everything but his Bible, Christ comes as a thief.” The Desire of Ages, 635.

5 Why is it necessary to be in a state of constant spiritual wakefulness? Romans 13:11.

NOTE: “Brethren and sisters, wake up, wake up! Proclaim the gospel in its simplicity. Listen as for your life to ‘what saith the Scriptures.’ It is of supreme importance that you hear aright, that you purify your hearts from selfishness, for your eternal welfare is at stake. Are you seeking for the Pearl of Great Price? Are you guarding yourselves against the deceptions of Satan, or do you stand ready to receive the suggestions of those who have departed from the faith, and given heed to seducing spirits? Your salvation depends on your hearing aright, and receiving with meekness the engrafted Word.” The Upward Look, 50.

6 What preparation should the children of God be making as they are waiting for the destruction of this world? Romans 13:14; Galatians 2:20.

NOTE: “While the outward adorning beautifies only the mortal body, the ornament of meekness adorns the soul, and connects finite man with the infinite God. This is the ornament of God’s own choice. . . . Angels of Heaven will register as best adorned, those who put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and walk with Him in meekness and lowliness of mind.” Review and Herald, January 18, 1881.

7 What is the Lord bidding us to do in the following verses? Isaiah 1:16-20; Matthew 11:28–30; Revelation 22:14, 17.

NOTE: “All are accountable for their actions while in this world upon probation. All have power to control their actions, if they will. If they are weak in virtue and purity of thoughts, and acts, they can obtain help from the Friend of the helpless. Jesus is acquainted with all the weaknesses of human nature, and if entreated, will give strength to overcome the most powerful temptations. All can obtain this strength if they seek for it in humility. Jesus gives all a blessed invitation who are burdened, and laden with sin, to come to him, the sinner’s friend. [Matthew 11:28–30 quoted.]

“Here the most inquisitive may safely learn in the school of Christ that which will prove for their present and everlasting good. The uneasy and dissatisfied will here find rest. With their thoughts and affections centered in Christ, they will obtain true wisdom, which will be worth more to them than the richest earthly treasures.” An Appeal to Mothers, 31, 32.

8 What evidence of change comes when men and women respond to Jesus? Acts 2:37–39.

NOTE: “Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: ‘Come out from among them, and be ye separate, . . . and touch not the unclean thing.’ And to them is fulfilled the promise: ‘I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.’ 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 91.

“A revival and a reformation must take place under the ministration of the Holy Spirit. Revival and reformation are two different things. Revival signifies a renewal of spiritual life, a quickening of the powers of mind and heart, a resurrection from the spiritual death. Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change in ideas and theories, habits and practices. Reformation will not bring forth the good fruit of righteousness unless it is connected with the revival of the Spirit. Revival and reformation are to do their appointed work, and in doing this work they must blend.” Review and Herald, February 25, 1902.

9 If we are really expecting Jesus to come, how will our expectation be demonstrated? 1 Peter 4:7–10; 2 Peter 3:14.

NOTE: “It is not wealth or intellect that gives happiness; it is true moral worth and a sense of duty performed. You may have the overcomer’s reward and stand before the throne of Christ to sing His praises in the day when He assembles His saints; but your robes must be cleansed in the blood of the Lamb, and charity must cover you as a garment, and you be found spotless and without blemish.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 125.

“What are you doing, brethren, in the great work of preparation? Those who are uniting with the world are receiving the worldly mold and preparing for the mark of the beast. Those who are distrustful of self, who are humbling themselves before God and purifying their souls by obeying the truth these are receiving the heavenly mold and preparing for the seal of God in their foreheads. When the decree goes forth and the stamp is impressed, their character will remain pure and spotless for eternity.” Ibid., vol. 5, 216.

10 How should we spend our time as we are preparing for the Lord’s soon appearing? Ephesians 5:15, 16.

NOTE: “Life is short. The things of the world must perish with the using. Let us be wise, and build for eternity. We cannot afford to idle away our precious moments, or engage in busy activities that will bring forth no fruit for eternity. Let the time hitherto devoted to idleness, frivolity, worldliness, be spent in gaining a knowledge of the Scriptures, in beautifying our life, and blessing and ennobling the life and character of others. This work will meet the approval of God, and win for us the heavenly benediction of ‘Well done.’” Our High Calling, 187.

11 While we are waiting for our promised Redeemer to come, how will we be kept from the worldly influences? 1 Peter 1:3–5, Isaiah 26:3; 40:28–31.

NOTE: “If we surrender our lives to His service, we can never be placed in a position for which God has not made provision. Whatever may be our situation, we have a Guide to direct our way; whatever our perplexities, we have a sure Counselor; whatever our sorrow, bereavement, or loneliness, we have a sympathizing Friend. If in our ignorance we make missteps, Christ does not leave us. His voice, clear and distinct, is heard saying, ‘I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.’ John 14:6. ‘He shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.’ Psalm 72:12.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 173.

12 What reason for thankfulness do the children of God have? Colossians 1:12–14.

NOTE: “The light of prophecy still burns for the guidance of souls, saying, ‘This is the way, walk ye in it.’ It shines on the pathway of the just to commend, and on the way of the unjust to lead to repentance and conversion. Through its agency sin will be rebuked and iniquity unmasked. It is progressive in the performance of its duty to reflect light on the past, the present, and the future. . . .

“He {God} has made provision that all may be holy and happy if they choose. Sufficient light has been given to this generation, that we may learn what our duties and privileges are and enjoy the precious and solemn truths in their simplicity and power.” My Life Today, 42.

13 Where is the spiritual citizenship of those who are waiting for their Lord’s return? Philippians 3:20, 21; Colossians 3:2.

NOTE: In some Bibles the marginal rendering of conversation is citizenship.

“Our minds take the level of the things on which our thoughts dwell, and if we think upon earthly things, we shall fail to take the impress of that which is heavenly. We would be greatly benefited by contemplating the mercy, goodness, and love of God; but we sustain great loss by dwelling upon those things which are earthly and temporal. We allow sorrow and care and perplexity to attract our minds to earth, and we magnify a molehill into a mountain. . . .

“Temporal things are not to engage our whole attention, or engross our minds until our thoughts are entirely of the earth and the earthly. We are to train, discipline, and educate the mind so that we may think in a heavenly channel, that we may dwell on things unseen and eternal, which will be discerned by spiritual vision. It is by seeing Him who is invisible that we may obtain strength of mind and vigor of spirit.” Signs of the Times, January 9, 1893.

Bible Study Guides – Fulfilling Signs and the Church

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September 1–7, 2002

MEMORY VERSE: “[Let] love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. [Be] kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” Romans 12:9, 10.

SUGGESTED READING: Early Writings, 285–295; The Adventist Home, 533–550.

INTRODUCTION: “Of special value to God’s church on earth today—the keepers of His vineyard—are the messages of counsel and admonition given through the prophets who have made plain His eternal purpose in behalf of mankind. In the teachings of the prophets, His love for the lost race and His plan for their salvation are clearly revealed. The story of Israel’s call, of their successes and failures, of their restoration to divine favor, of their rejection of the Master of the vineyard, and of the carrying out of the plan of the ages by a goodly remnant to whom are to be fulfilled all the covenant promises—this has been the theme of God’s messengers to His church throughout the centuries that have passed. And today God’s message to His church—to those who are occupying His vineyard as faithful husbandmen—is none other than that spoken through the prophet of old: [Isaiah 27:2, 3 quoted.]” Prophets and Kings, 22.

1 Of what did Christ caution His followers, as they see the end times approaching? Luke 21:34, 35.

NOTE: “Dear Brethren and Sisters in _____: June 12, 1868, I was shown that the love of the world was to a great extent taking the place of love to God. You are situated in a pleasant country, one that is favorable to worldly prosperity. This places you where you are in constant danger of having your interest swallowed up in the world, in laying up treasure upon the earth. Your hearts will be where your treasure is. You are situated where there are temptations to be plunging deeper and deeper into the world, to be continually accumulating; and while you are thus engaged, the mind becomes engrossed with the cares of this life to such an extent as to shut out true godliness. But few realize the deceitfulness of riches.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 183.

2 What other peril will confront the church in the last days? Matthew 24:48–51.

NOTE: “The evil servant says in his heart, ‘My lord delayeth his coming.’ He does not say that Christ will not come. He does not scoff at the idea of His second coming. But in his heart and by his actions and words he declares that the Lord’s coming is delayed. He banishes from the minds of others the conviction that the Lord is coming quickly. His influence leads men to presumptuous, careless delay. They are confirmed in their worldliness and stupor. Earthly passions, corrupt thoughts, take possession of the mind. The evil servant eats and drinks with the drunken, unites with the world in pleasure seeking.” The Desire of Ages, 634.

3 In the parable of the ten virgins, how did Jesus illustrate the attitude of His people immediately before His return? Matthew 25:5.

NOTE: “Here [Matthew 25] is brought to view the church living in the last days, the same that is pointed out in the close of chapter 24. In this parable their experience is illustrated by the incidents of an Eastern marriage. . . .

“Two classes are represented. All had taken their lamps, the Bible, and by its light had gone forth to meet the Bridegroom. . . .

“By the tarrying of the bridegroom is represented the passing of the time when the Lord was expected, the disappointment, and the seeming delay. . . . ‘They all slumbered and slept;’ one class in unconcern and abandonment of their faith, the other class patiently waiting till clearer light should be given. Yet in the night of trial the latter seemed to lose, to some extent, their zeal and devotion. The halfhearted and superficial could no longer lean upon the faith of their brethren. Each must stand or fall for himself.” The Great Controversy, 393–395.

4 What should our first priority now be? Romans 13:12–14

NOTE: “Not one is to feel that he can use his time as he chooses. Heavenly requirements are not to be ignored. It is the universal tendency of men to subordinate the eternal realities to temporal matters, to make the claims of the future, immortal life subservient to the commonplace affairs of this fleeting life.” Signs of The Times, July 30, 1894.

5 What urgent counsel has Christ left on record for His remnant church? Revelation 3:15–19.

NOTE: “Christ now calls them [professed Christians]: ‘Be zealous and repent.’ He kindly and faithfully admonishes them to buy gold, white raiment, and eyesalve. They can choose either to be zealous, and partake largely of salvation, or be spewed out of the mouth of the Lord as disgusting, and be thrust from Him. God will not bear always. He is of tender pity, yet His Spirit will be grieved away for the last time. Mercy’s sweet voice will be no more heard. Its last precious notes will have died away, and those described will be left to their own ways, to be filled with their own doings.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 153.

6 What is the duty of God’s people as the end of time approaches? Revelation 14:6.

NOTE: “In the prophecy this warning of the judgment, with its connected messages, is followed by the coming of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven. The proclamation of the judgment is an announcement of Christ’s second coming as at hand. And this proclamation is called the everlasting gospel. Thus the preaching of Christ’s second coming, the announcement of its nearness, is shown to be an essential part of the gospel message.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 227.

7 What response does God expect from His church to this message? Revelation 14:7.

NOTE: “The gospel invitation is to be given to all the world—‘to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.’ Revelation 14:6. The last message of warning and mercy is to lighten the whole earth with its glory. It is to reach all classes of men, rich and poor, high and low. ‘Go out into the highways and hedges,’ Christ says, ‘and compel them to come in, that My house may be filled.’

“The world is perishing for want of the gospel. There is a famine for the word of God. There are few who preach the word unmixed with human tradition. Though men have the Bible in their hands, they do not receive the blessing that God has placed in it for them. The Lord calls upon His servants to carry His message to the people. The word of everlasting life must be given to those who are perishing in their sins.

“In the command to go into the highways and hedges, Christ sets forth the work of all whom He calls to minister in His name. The whole world is the field for Christ’s ministers. The whole human family is comprised in their congregation. The Lord desires that His word of grace shall be brought home to every soul.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 228, 229.

8 How are the members of the remnant church to manifest their faithfulness? Hebrews 10:23–25.

NOTE: “You need to take a decided interest in religious meetings. You have no strength to keep yourself under the sharp assaults of the enemy. You are kept by the power of God through faith. Make earnest and determined efforts to be to every meeting possible. The divine direction is, Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together as the manner of some is, but so much the more as you see the day approaching. [See Hebrews 10:25]. You are to be found among the little few who meet to worship God. The help of every soul who loves the truth is needed to bear testimony of the truth and act as missionaries of God, home missionaries to strengthen the things that remain, that are ready to die. Every jot of influence from Christ’s soldiers is now called for on the Lord’s side. Where two or three are assembled together in My name, there am I in the midst and that to bless. [See Matthew 18:20.]” Manuscript Releases, vol. 12, 105.

9 How should the remnant church relate to the needs of mankind? Matthew 25:31–40.

NOTE: “All His gifts are to be used in blessing humanity, in relieving the suffering and the needy. We are to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to care for the widow and the fatherless, to minister to the distressed and downtrodden. God never meant that the widespread misery in the world should exist. He never meant that one man should have an abundance of the luxuries of life, while the children of others should cry for bread. The means over and above the actual necessities of life are entrusted to man to do good, to bless humanity. The Lord says, ‘Sell that ye have, and give alms.’ Luke 12:33. Be ‘ready to distribute, willing to communicate.’ 1 Timothy 6:18. ‘When thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind.’ Luke 14:13. ‘Loose the bands of wickedness,’ ‘undo the heavy burdens,’ ‘let the oppressed go free,’ ‘break every yoke.’ ‘Deal thy bread to the hungry,’ ‘bring the poor that are cast out to thy house.’ ‘When thou seest the naked, . . . cover him.’ ‘Satisfy the afflicted soul.’ Isaiah 58:6, 7, 10. ‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.’ Mark 16:15. These are the Lord’s commands. Are the great body of professed Christians doing this work?” Christ’s Object Lessons, 370, 371.

10 What should be the spiritual objective of the church that is waiting for Christ to come? 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:14, 15.

NOTE: “Christ is soon coming in the clouds of heaven, and we must be prepared to meet Him, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing. . . . The converting power of God must be upon our hearts. We must study the life of Christ, and imitate the divine Pattern. We must dwell upon the perfection of His character, and be changed into His image. No one will enter the kingdom of God unless his will is brought into captivity to the will of Christ.” In Heavenly Places, 285.

11 What will be the highest goal of every true Christian? 1 John 3:2, 3.

NOTE: “Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 214.

12 What reward awaits those who persevere to the end? Revelation 2:10; Matthew 24:13.

NOTE: “If we move forward where Jesus leads the way we shall see His triumph, we shall share His joy. We must share the conflicts if we wear the crown of victory. Like Jesus, we must be made perfect through suffering. Had Christ’s life been one of ease, then might we safely yield to sloth. Since His life was marked with continual self-denial, suffering, and self-sacrifice, we shall make no complaint if we are partakers with Him. We can walk safely in the darkest path if we have the Light of the world for our guide.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 71.

13 How much is promised to the faithful? Matthew 19:29; Revelation 21:7.

NOTE: “Says John: ‘Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.’ Sons of God, members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King! Can there be any other honor equal to this bestowed on finite man? Yet the world does not discern our relationship to the divine, nor know the source of our strength. They know not that we are heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ to an immortal inheritance. We may inherit all things. We may have a home where there will be no more death, neither sorrow nor sighing.” Review and Herald, October 7, 1884.

“There is much hard work to be done for the Master, and much wisdom must be brought into the work. It is the unconquerable perseverance, the never-failing endurance, which will bring the victory. Many have a theory of truth, but know scarcely anything of the sweet victories through that faith which overcometh the world. An experience must be gained by each one for himself, or we shall never sit down with the suffering Man of Calvary. It will cost us all we have, but as a reward we shall inherit all things.” Signs of the Times, September 7, 1891.

Food for Life – Tofu Cheese Cake and Peanut Butter Carob Pie

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“Plain, simple pie may serve as dessert, but when one eats two or three pieces merely to gratify an inordinate appetite, he unfits himself for the service of God.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 333.

Recipe – Tofu Cheese Cake

2 Tablespoons unflavored Emes Kosher-Jel

½ cup pineapple juice

Blend together to dissolve gelatin.

2 Tablespoons lemon juice

¼ cup oil

½ cup honey

¾ teaspoon salt

2 Tablespoons vanilla

½ teaspoon coriander

1 pound mashed tofu

Combine in blender and blend till smooth. Fill two crumb-crust pie shells and bake at 350 degrees about 30-40 minutes, until edges are lightly browned and middle is firm. Chill until ready to serve. Top with your favorite fruit topping.

Recipe – Peanut Butter Carob Pie

1 ½ cups water

2 cups carob chips

pinch of salt

½ cup soy milk powder

1 teaspoon vanilla

½-1 cup peanut butter

Blend all ingredients, except peanut butter, until smooth (about two minutes). Add peanut butter while still blending, until mixture thickens. May add more peanut butter if needed to reach desired consistency. Pour into prepared pie shell. Freeze until ready to serve.

Nature Nugget – Treefrogs

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Treefrogs are adapted for an arboreal (in the trees) existence, with long limbs and digits that help them cling to twigs and bark. They also have large suction pads or adhesive discs at the tips of their toes, which gives them the ability to climb vertical surfaces, including glass windows. Mucus can be secreted from these toe pads to enable climbing on dry surfaces.

In North America, treefrogs come in various colors such as gray, green, or brown and may be patterned or plain. Many can change their color and pattern depending on conditions of light, moisture, temperature, stress, or general activity. In the tropics, where treefrog varieties are especially abundant, they are often brightly colored with various patterns and shades of red, blue, yellow, and green. Many treefrogs have flash colors on their hind legs and on the sides of their body, which are seen when the frog leaps but disappear from view when it lands and folds its legs.

With treefrogs, as well as with all amphibians, much of their respiration takes place through the skin, which must be kept moist for a useful exchange of gases. For this reason they can only survive in moist environments or in areas near water. For example, the Canyon Treefrog lives on boulders along permanent streams in canyons of the arid North American southwest.

Even though they are well adapted for an arboreal existence, only a few species ascend high into the trees. More common habitats include brushy thickets, swampland vegetation, moist woodlands, or even on the ground or burrowed into it.

Like most frogs, the treefrog’s diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates, and it is not uncommon for them to visit windows and porches at night to feed on insects attracted by lights. Most are two inches or less in length, but the five-inch Cuban Treefrog, an immigrant from the West Indies to southern Florida, is the largest treefrog in North America and is cannibalistic toward smaller native treefrogs.

Many treefrogs are known as “rain frogs” because it is believed that their calls predict coming rain. The ears of treefrogs are well developed. Their calls, which are clear and melodious, are distinct and identifiable to species. This helps prevent mating between different species.

During the breeding season, male treefrogs sing to attract females, while perched on vegetation near water. Most males have paired or single vocal pouches that swell while they are calling. In some species the pouches puff out on either side on the back of the head. Other species have no sacs and apparently no voice. During breeding, females lay up to several dozen eggs in patches that float at the surface of the water in thin films. Eggs hatch within a week and the larvae, called tadpoles, transform into adults in about two months.

The Bible has very little to say about frogs, but in Exodus 8 is the story of the plague of frogs that the Lord sent against Pharaoh and all of Egypt, except the land of Goshen where the Israelites lived. Can you imagine not only frogs all over the ground and floor but all over the walls and furniture too! The Egyptians worshipped the Nile River and many of its creatures, including the frogs. Because they thought the frogs were sacred, they would not kill them. So as quick as they were removed from the houses and palaces, they would come back in. God used a plague of frogs against them to show that He had power over their gods and that He was the one and only true God!

Exodus 20:3 says, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” Even today some people worship the creation over the Creator. We have to be careful not to make a god out of any creature or thing. Anything that keeps us from our daily prayer and study time with God, that we put first before Him or that we spend too much time with is a god to us! This can be our job, our pets, and very often the television set. Let us always put God first in our lives.

Children’s Story – Two Trees

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On a day when the spring blossoms scented the air and soft breezes came as from heaven, two saplings were planted on the side of a lovely hill. Being nothing more than twigs, they needed to be nurtured and to be protected from many things.

The man who planted them was very wise. He was diligent and faithful in caring for these baby trees. He had chosen a location on the hill where the sky expanded in glory above them.

The saplings longed to reach the heights of the sky and to be in the freedom of its atmosphere. They longed to be as strong and majestic as the older trees higher up on the hill. They both wanted to be as great as a tree could be.

The man wanted the same for them, so with twine he tied each sapling to a stake, which he had driven into the ground next to them. This would prevent a strong wind from blowing them over and possibly uprooting them.

The first sapling understood its restraint and support and was grateful to have a caring man watch over it. The second sapling wanted no such discipline and struggled to free itself by bending and twisting this way and that as it grew.

The seasons changed—spring to summer to fall to winter. Round and round the seasons went, until years had passed. The young trees had been tenderly watered, pruned, and protected. However, while the first tree allowed the man to direct its growth, the second tree fought all the time against everything the man tried to do for it. It attempted to become great and mighty on its own.

The day at long last came when it was time to remove the stakes and twine. The man examined the trees. The first tree gave great pleasure to the man. It was full of fine, colored leaves and sturdy, thick branches. It waved in the breeze, tall and proud. It gave glory to its kind. It surpassed the height of the older trees and was admired by all that saw it. Birds had deemed it one of the finest trees around, and the many, different nests among the branches testified to that.

The second tree baffled the man. It was in the same soil as the first tree, and it had received the same care, yet it looked sickly. Only half the size of the first tree, its branches were bent and weak. The trunk looked as though it had been pushed over. It lived in the shadow of the first tree, and it sadly had lost its desire to reach the sky.

By obeying Jesus, we can grow to be like the first tree, strong and firm. (See Psalms 1:3; 92:12; Jeremiah 17:8.) However, when we choose our own way, we can become weak and twisted like the second tree. (See Matthew 3:10; 7:19.) Jesus wants to make you mighty. Will you let Him?