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Neither Do I

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“Now early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people came to Him; and He sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, they said to Him, ‘Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?’ … Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. So, when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, ‘He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.’ And again, He stooped down and wrote on the ground.

“Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, ‘Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?’ She said, ‘No one, Lord.’ And Jesus said to her, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.’ ” John 8:1–11

“From the excitement and confusion of the city, from the eager crowds and the treacherous rabbis, Jesus turned away to the quiet of the olive groves, where He could be alone with God. But in the early morning He returned to the temple, and as the people gathered about Him, He sat down and taught them.

“He was soon interrupted. A group of Pharisees and scribes approached Him, dragging with them a terror-stricken woman, whom with hard, eager voices they accused of having violated the seventh commandment. Having pushed her into the presence of Jesus, they said to Him, with a hypocritical show of respect, ‘Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest Thou?’

“Their pretended reverence veiled a deep-laid plot for His ruin. They had seized upon this opportunity to secure His condemnation, thinking that whatever decision He might make, they would find occasion to accuse Him. Should He acquit the woman, He might be charged with despising the law of Moses. Should He declare her worthy of death, He could be accused to the Romans as one who was assuming authority that belonged only to them.

“Jesus looked for a moment upon the scene—the trembling victim in her shame, the hard-faced dignitaries, devoid of even human pity. His spirit of stainless purity shrank from the spectacle. Well He knew for what purpose this case had been brought to Him. He read the heart, and knew the character and life history of everyone in His presence. These would-be guardians of justice had themselves led their victim into sin, that they might lay a snare for Jesus. Giving no sign that He had heard their question, He stooped, and fixing His eyes upon the ground, began to write in the dust.

“Impatient at His delay and apparent indifference, the accusers drew nearer, urging the matter upon His attention. But as their eyes, following those of Jesus, fell upon the pavement at His feet, their countenances changed. There, traced before them, were the guilty secrets of their own lives. The people, looking on, saw the sudden change of expression, and pressed forward to discover what it was that they were regarding with such astonishment and shame.

“With all their professions of reverence for the law, these rabbis, in bringing the charge against the woman, were disregarding its provisions. It was the husband’s duty to take action against her, and the guilty parties were to be punished equally. The action of the accusers was wholly unauthorized. Jesus, however, met them on their own ground. The law specified that in punishment by stoning, the witnesses in the case should be the first to cast a stone. Now rising, and fixing His eyes upon the plotting elders, Jesus said, ‘He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.’ And stooping down, He continued writing on the ground.

“He had not set aside the law given through Moses, nor infringed upon the authority of Rome. The accusers had been defeated. Now, their robe of pretended holiness torn from them, they stood, guilty and condemned, in the presence of Infinite Purity. They trembled lest the hidden iniquity of their lives should be laid open to the multitude; and one by one, with bowed heads and downcast eyes, they stole away, leaving their victim with the pitying Saviour.

“Jesus arose, and looking at the woman said, ‘Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?’ She said, ‘No man, Lord.’ And Jesus said unto her, ‘Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.’

“The woman had stood before Jesus, cowering with fear. His words, ‘He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone,’ had come to her as a death sentence. She dared not lift her eyes to the Saviour’s face, but silently awaited her doom. In astonishment, she saw her accusers depart speechless and confounded; then those words of hope fell upon her ear, ‘Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.’ Her heart was melted, and she cast herself at the feet of Jesus, sobbing out her grateful love, and with bitter tears confessing her sins.

“This was to her the beginning of a new life, a life of purity and peace, devoted to the service of God. In the uplifting of this fallen soul, Jesus performed a greater miracle than in healing the most grievous physical disease; He cured the spiritual malady which is unto death everlasting. This penitent woman became one of His most steadfast followers. With self-sacrificing love and devotion she repaid His forgiving mercy.

“In His act of pardoning this woman and encouraging her to live a better life, the character of Jesus shines forth in the beauty of perfect righteousness. While He does not palliate [excuse] sin, nor lessen the sense of guilt, He seeks not to condemn, but to save. The world had for this erring woman only contempt and scorn; but Jesus speaks words of comfort and hope. The Sinless One pities the weakness of the sinner, and reaches to her a helping hand. While the hypocritical Pharisees denounce, Jesus bids her, ‘Go, and sin no more.’

“It is not Christ’s follower that, with averted eyes, turns from the erring, leaving them unhindered to pursue their downward course. Those who are forward in accusing others, and zealous in bringing them to justice, are often in their own lives more guilty than they. Men hate the sinner, while they love the sin.” The Desire of Ages, 460–462

Interesting, isn’t it?  How man condemns, not because the person is worthy of condemnation, but because those doing the condemning are likelier to be as guilty, or even more so, than those they condemn.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16, 17

“Christ hates sin but loves the sinner. This will be the spirit of all who follow Him. Christian love is slow to censure, quick to discern penitence, ready to forgive, to encourage, to set the wanderer in the path of holiness, and to stay his feet therein.” The Desire of Ages, 462

Judy Rebarchek is the managing editor of LandMarks magazine. She can be reached at judyrebarchek@stepstolife.org or by phone at 316-788-5559.

Joy and Happiness or Purgatory

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Do you have joy in your heart? Are you really happy? A true Christian should be one of the happiest people in the world. But if a Christian isn’t happy, then the next question to ask would be, “What’s the matter with his religion?” Many Seventh-day Adventists have left worldly things behind, but have failed to acquire those things which are spiritually necessary to take their place.

Many people do not know why man was created; however, Christ’s Object Lessons tell us why.

“Through disobedience to God, Adam and Eve had lost Eden, and because of sin the whole earth was cursed. But if God’s people followed His instruction, their land would be restored to fertility and beauty. … As in obedience to His natural laws the earth should produce its treasures, so in obedience to His moral law the hearts of the people were to reflect the attributes of His character. Even the heathen would recognize the superiority of those who served and worshiped the living God.

“ ‘Behold,’ said Moses, ‘I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” …’ ” Deuteronomy 4:4–6.

“The children of Israel were to occupy all the territory which God appointed them. Those nations that rejected the worship and service of the true God were to be dispossessed. But it was God’s purpose that by the revelation of His character through Israel men should be drawn unto Him. To all the world the gospel invitation was to be given. Through the teaching of the sacrificial service Christ was to be uplifted before the nations, and all who would look unto Him should live. …

“God desired to bring all peoples under His merciful rule.” Now notice the next two sentences: “He desired that the earth should be filled with joy and peace. He created man for happiness, and He longs to fill human hearts with the peace of heaven.” Op. Cit., 289, 290

Man was created for happiness.

The framers of the Constitution of the United States were not ignorant when they determined that everyone has the right to pursue happiness. The question is, How can happiness be successfully pursued? The religion of Christ produces the greatest joy that human beings can experience, and if we do not have happiness, there is something wrong with our religion.

So, where do we go to find the greatest happiness?

“We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, pride must be humbled, if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom. The Jews would not accept the honor that is reached through humiliation. Therefore, they would not receive their Redeemer. He was a sign that was spoken against. …

“In the light of the Saviour’s life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father’s heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are ‘thoughts of peace, and not of evil.’ Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God’s hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.” The Desire of Ages, 57

Even in this world, most people recognize that there is no happiness without love. Until you have a loving relationship with your Creator, you will never experience the greatest happiness that you can enjoy. So, if you do not have happiness, you must wonder what your relationship with your Creator is.

Our Creator is the only source of true joy and happiness. You will not have true joy or happiness if you are not connected to Him. “You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11. Before they sinned, Adam and Eve knew that their relationship with Jesus Christ was the source of their joy and happiness. But fallen man is deceived, believing that Adam’s joy was in Eve and Eve’s joy was in Adam.

“The sacrifice demanded by their transgression revealed to Adam and Eve the sacred character of the law of God; and they saw, as they had never seen before, the guilt of sin and its dire results. In their remorse and anguish they pleaded that the penalty might not fall upon Him whose love had been the source of all their joy; rather let it descend upon them and their posterity.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 66

In the book Confrontation, we read the account of how the devil and the angels who followed him were cast out of heaven. Mrs. White explains that being in charge of the angels outside of heaven was completely different than being in charge of them inside of heaven, and the devil found that he had lost his joy, and the angels had lost their joy as well. With their joy gone, there was only contention and bitterness as they fought among themselves. They discovered the hard way the real source of joy, and that they no longer had access to it.

Today, many people are empty, searching for something they can’t see, but know they must have. To prevent them from finding the true source of joy, the devil keeps them totally occupied with worldly things that are of no value to the soul. Some will find relief from this emptiness in the things of this world, but these things are spiritually empty, and being excited is not the same as being happy.

To be truly happy, you need to know the source of happiness and where to find it. There is a saying that “Home is wherever your mother is.” Our spiritual home—heaven—is wherever Jesus is. Inspiration tells us, “It was heaven to be in His presence.” The Ministry of Healing, 18. What makes heaven so heavenly? Jesus is there.

Before the disciples knew Jesus, they thought of heaven as a place somewhere in the sky beyond their sight, but after He ascended to heaven, “What a source of joy to the disciples to know that they had such a Friend in heaven to plead in their behalf! Through the visible ascension of Christ all their views and contemplation of heaven are changed. Their minds had formerly dwelt upon it as a region of unlimited space, tenanted by spirits without substance. Now heaven was connected with the thought of Jesus, whom they had loved and reverenced above all others, with whom they had conversed and journeyed, whom they had handled, even in His resurrected body, who had spoken hope and comfort to their hearts, and who, while the words were upon His lips, had been taken up before their eyes, the tones of His voice coming back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received Him: ‘Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.’

“Heaven could no longer appear to them as an indefinite, incomprehensible space, filled with intangible spirits. They now looked upon it as their future home, where mansions were being prepared for them by their loving Redeemer. Prayer was clothed with a new interest, since it was a communion with our Saviour. With new and thrilling emotions and a firm confidence that their prayer would be answered, they gathered in the upper chamber to offer their petitions and to claim the promise of the Saviour, who had said, ‘Ask, and ye shall receive.’ ” Heaven, 67, 68

Heaven is real because Jesus is real and wherever Jesus is will be heaven.

The good news—is a little fuzzy.

Jesus had died, was resurrected, and had ascended to heaven to minister before the Father on our behalf. Now, the disciples had good news to proclaim—the gospel of Jesus Christ. They talked of Jesus all the time, so much so that the people began to call them Christians. They preached that Christ was the Messiah, having come in human form to save them from their sinfulness. They preached of His humiliation and of the wicked hands that took Him and crucified Him; of how He had risen from the grave and ascended into heaven. They told the people that He was standing in the presence of God as man’s advocate and that He would soon come again with power and great glory to take His people out of this world to the place He had prepared for them. This gospel turned the world upside down, and the world and those in it have not been the same since.

The Bible describes Jesus as:

  • The Chiefest among ten thousand (Song of Solomon 5:10)
  • Altogether lovely (Song of Solomon 5:16)
  • The Source of all true pleasure and satisfaction (1 Corinthians 8:6)
  • The Giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17)
  • The Author of every blessing (Proverbs 10:22; Ezekiel 34:26; Numbers 6:24–26)
  • The One in whom our hope of eternal life is centered (John 10:28-30; 1John 5:11; John 3:16)
  • The One who alone can cure the disease of sin and transform the character of man (1John 3:8; James 4:12; 1 John 1:9)

The disciples understood what Adam and Eve had understood at the beginning. They understood that Jesus is the real source of joy and happiness. But sadly, there is so much unhappiness in the lives of so many people because they do not know the Source of happiness; they do not know where to find Him, therefore, they have no connection with Him.

Not only do people have a fuzzy idea about the love of our Lord and Saviour, but they also have an indistinct and deluded idea about God the Father. Satan has been working for millennia to deceive people into thinking that Jesus isn’t real, or perhaps He might have been a good man but not our Saviour. And he plants doubt into the minds of men about God’s true character. Instead, he mixes his own evil attributes with God’s righteous ones, and as a result, man becomes so mixed up that he turns away from God and looks to the devil to be his benefactor. But, praise God, we have been given the words of Inspiration that prove just how false this idea is.

“Many conceive of the Christian’s God as a being whose attribute is stern justice—one who is a severe judge, a harsh, exacting creditor. The Creator has been pictured as a being who is watching with a jealous eye to discern the errors and mistakes of men, that He may visit judgment upon them. In the minds of thousands, love and sympathy and tenderness are associated with the character of Christ, while God is regarded as the law-giver, inflexible, arbitrary, devoid of sympathy for the beings He has made.

“Never was there a greater error. Nature and revelation alike testify of God’s love. It is from Him that we receive every good gift. He is the source of life, of wisdom, and of joy. …

“It is transgression of God’s law that has brought woe and death. … God made man perfect and holy and happy; and the fair earth, as it came from the Creator’s hand, bore no blight of decay nor shadow of the curse. … God cursed the ground for man’s sake. … The trials that make his life one of toil and care, were appointed for his good, as a part of the training needful in God’s plan for his uplifting from the ruin and degradation.” Bible Training School, November 1, 1908

Helping others.

There is a way, available to every son and daughter of Adam, to have greater joy in this life than anything the devil can offer. Astonishingly, very few Christians have a clear understanding of this.

“Whoever succors the poor, or sympathizes with the afflicted and oppressed, or befriends the orphan, is brought into closer relationship with the pitying Saviour. He who is the Source of all blessing, has granted to men the privilege of becoming partakers of the divine nature, and in their turn, of diffusing blessings to their fellowmen. This is the highest honor, the greatest joy, which it is possible for God to bestow upon men. Those who thus become participants in labors of love are brought nearest to their Redeemer.” The Home Missionary, July 1, 1891

Only by being a blessing to our fellowmen are we able to experience the great joy that God wishes to give His children.

“He who refuses to become a laborer together with God, the man who for the sake of selfish indulgence ignores the wants of his fellowmen, is withholding from himself the richest blessings that God could give him.” Ibid.

Bliss or dissatisfaction.

I have met many dissatisfied people. Without sin, there would never have been an unhappy person. All dissatisfaction and unhappiness are a consequence of sin. Before sin entered the world, there was no unhappiness in the garden of Eden. A literal translation of the word Eden means garden of delight and bliss. There was constant joy and happiness within its boundary branches, but sin brought problems to all.

However, in spite of sin, God shows His people that if they will but follow Him, they will find joy, happiness, and satisfaction.

“In the arrangements for the education of the chosen people, it is made manifest that a life centered in God is a life of completeness. Every want He has implanted, He provides to satisfy; every faculty imparted, He seeks to develop.” Education, 41

God has promised completeness to every Christian. The devil seeks to engender doubt regarding this promise. He brings terrible problems and troubles that snatch away our happiness. But God has promised that He will provide whatever we need to endure these experiences. He reminds us that we can have faith in Him, and that even if following Jesus may cost us worldly things, following Him will secure us a place that will abound in joy and happiness forever.

“Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life.” Matthew 19:29

“Whatever crosses they [God’s people] have been called to bear, whatever losses they have sustained, whatever persecution they have suffered, even to the loss of their temporal life, the children of God are amply recompensed.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 180

The God we serve is a wonderful God. We may lose everything in this life, just as Job did, but God will restore happiness and satisfaction to us throughout eternity that nothing in this world can compare to. If you get to know Him, you will love Him.

We need to know Christ.

The reason that people are sad is because they don’t know Jesus or His Father.

“The life in which the fear of the Lord is cherished will not be a life of sadness and gloom. It is the absence of Christ that makes the countenance sad, and the life a pilgrimage of sighs.” Ibid., 162

“When the light of heaven shines upon the human agent, his countenance will express the joy of the Lord within. It is the absence of Christ from the soul that makes people sad and of a doubtful mind.” The Seventh-day Adventist Commentary, Vol. 5, 1144

A short time before He was to be crucified, Jesus told His disciples that He would soon be going away and that this would bring them great sorrow. However, they would see Him again, filling their hearts with joy and happiness no one could take away. It was their relationship with Christ that caused the disciples to be both sorrowful and later joyful.

God has great plans for our happiness.

This world is not our home, yet God tells us we have a specific work to accomplish here. Our future will be in heaven. No matter what the troubles and difficulties of this life may be, it is God’s plan that we will have an eternity to contemplate a place filled with great joy and happiness.

A few facts about heaven.

  1. The Bible says, “They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. They shall not build and another inhabit; they shall not plant and another eat. … My elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.” Isaiah 65:21, 22. We will have work to do in heaven and will find pleasure in doing it.
  2. “I shall know just as I also am known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12, last part. “The loves and sympathies that God has planted in the soul will find truest and sweetest exercise.” Education, 306
  3. Jesus is there. Heaven is not so much a place as an atmosphere. Heaven is where Jesus is. If Jesus is in our hearts, we are filled with a heavenly atmosphere.
  4. “In our life here, earthly, sin-restricted though it is, the greatest joy and the highest education are in service. And in the future state, untrammeled by the limitations of sinful humanity, it is in service that our greatest joy and our highest education will be found.” Ibid., 309. To be part of the joy and happiness of heaven, which is found in service, our greatest joy here on earth will be in service to God and our fellow man.
  5. Our home here should be a reflection of our home in heaven. “There must be no angry words spoken in the home, no seeds of coarse, common talk sown in your children’s hearts, or they will have no confidence in you when you speak in meeting. God help us to have the peace of Christ in our hearts, that we may teach our children the way of life and peace! We may have a little heaven to go to heaven in, if Christ breathes upon us His Holy Spirit.” The Review and Herald, April 21, 1891

If our homes are more like purgatory than heaven, how can we hope to see heaven? “Parents, make your home a little heaven on earth. You can do this, if you so choose. You can make home so pleasant and cheerful that it will be the most attractive place on earth to your children. Let them receive all the blessings of the household. You can so relate yourselves to God that His Spirit will abide in your home. Come close to the bleeding side of the Man of Calvary. Those who are partakers with Him in His sufferings will at last be partakers with Him in His glory.” Manuscript 77, 1902. By receiving the Holy Spirit into our homes, we will have a little bit of heaven here.

“We must let Christ into our hearts and homes if we would walk in the light. Home should be made all that the name implies. It should be a little heaven upon the earth, a place where the affections are cultivated instead of being studiously repressed.” The Review and Herald, June 22, 1886

Love is freely expressed.

In heaven, the angels love one another, and this love is freely, openly, and often expressed. They work together. They have companions. Sadly, there are many so-called Christian homes today where love and affection are not expressed. And yet, we claim to be getting ready to go to heaven. If we receive the Holy Spirit, the Lord will put love in our hearts for our families. But if there is no love in our hearts for our families, then we must go to the Lord seeking to be converted, allowing the Holy Spirit to change us and give us a new heart so that we can love our families and our fellowman. Anything less than this makes us pretend Christians, playing at religion.

“Our happiness depends upon this cultivation of love, sympathy, and polite courtesy to one another. The reason why there are so many hard-hearted men and women in our world, is because true affection has been regarded as weakness, and has been discouraged and repressed. The better part of the nature of those of this class was perverted and dwarfed in childhood; and unless rays of divine light can melt away their coldness and hard-hearted selfishness, the happiness of such is buried forever.” Ibid.

Just like Jesus.

“If we would have tender hearts, such as Jesus had when He was upon the earth, and sanctified sympathy, such as the angels have for sinful mortals, we must cultivate the sympathies of childhood, which are simplicity itself. Then we shall be refined, elevated, and directed by heavenly principles.” Ibid. Friends, the Lord intended that our homes would be filled with free, open, and frequent expressions of affection, love, and sympathy, with courtesy and politeness. Do we treat each other with gentleness so that our homes become a little heaven to go to heaven in?

If your home is more like purgatory than heaven, bring your loved ones to the family altar and pray that each one will be converted; ask for the rays of divine light to come into each heart, melting away the cold selfishness that dwells there. Do you know Jesus? Are you trying to copy His character in your home with your loved ones so that your home will be a happy place? Home should be the happiest, most heavenly place on earth for every family member. Only then are we ready to go to heaven.

Pastor John J. Grosboll is the Director of Steps to Life and pastors the Prairie Meadows Church in Wichita, Kansas. He may be reached by email at historic@stepstolife.org or by telephone at 316-788-5559.

Religious Laws

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Who has the right to make a religious law? Governments in this world are authorized by the God of heaven to make civil laws, laws that relate to the relationships between human beings—the second table of the ten commandments.

Paul makes this very plain in Romans 13. Peter also makes it plain in 1 Peter 2. For example, the Bible supports the death penalty for those who commit murder (Genesis 9; Romans 13).

But the first four commandments—the first table of the ten commandments—relate to our relationship with God; and concerning these commandments, no government has the right to interfere.

In 1 Peter 2, Peter encourages submission to government, but he himself said when the religious authorities commanded him to violate his conscientious convictions toward God, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” Acts 5:29, last part

In Romans 13, Paul states explicitly the authority of the state to enforce the commandments relating to murder, adultery stealing, and lying (Romans 13:9). But Romans 14 tells us, in the most explicit language, that there is no civil or religious authority that has the authority to enforce the first four commandments in the law:

“One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind.

“He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord, and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks; and he who does not eat, to the Lord he does not eat, and gives God thanks.

“For none of us lives to himself, and no man dies to himself.

“For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.

“For to this end Christ died and rose, and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and living.

“But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

“For it is written: ‘As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.’

“So, then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” Romans 14:5–12

Concerning religious laws, the Bible says, we have one Lawgiver, one Judge and one King (Isaiah 33:22).

To Be Sealed as Blameless

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June 22 – 28, 2025

Key Text

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 24

Study Help: Selected Messages, Book 2, 367–375; Testimonies, Vol. 5, 207–216

Introduction

“Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 214

Sunday

1 AN EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL TO SALVATION

1.a. What has Christ promised for all who gain the victory over sin? Revelation 3:5

1.b. Upon what must we set our affections in order to experience this victory? Colossians 3:1–3

Note: “Christ says of the overcomer, ‘I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.’ The names of all those who have once given themselves to God are written in the book of life, and their characters are now passing in review before Him. Angels of God are weighing moral worth. They are watching the development of character in those now living, to see if their names can be retained in the book of life. A probation is granted us in which to wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. Who is doing this work? Who is separating from himself sin and selfishness? ‘Ye are dead,’ says the apostle Paul of the true followers of Christ, ‘and your life is hid with Christ in God.’ When we are alive to God, we are dead to self. May God help us to die to self. Whose names will not be blotted out of the book of life? Only the names of those who have loved God with all the powers of their being, and their neighbors as themselves.” Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, 138

Monday

2 A WORK FOR THIS ERA

2.a. Four mighty angels carry out a crucial work throughout the Day of Atonement. What is this work? Revelation 7:1–4

Note: “Four mighty angels hold back the powers of this earth till the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. The nations of the world are eager for conflict; but they are held in check by the angels. When this restraining power is removed, there will come a time of trouble and anguish.” Maranatha, 257

“A terrible conflict is before us. We are nearing the battle of the great day of God Almighty. That which has been held in control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding her wings, preparing to step down from the throne and leave the world to the control of Satan. The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against those who serve Him, and soon, very soon, will be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battlefield—the scene of the final contest and the final victory.

“While their hands were loosening, and the four winds were about to blow, the merciful eye of Jesus gazed on the remnant that were not sealed, and He raised His hands to the Father and pleaded with Him that He had spilled His blood for them. Then another angel was commissioned to fly swiftly to the four angels and bid them hold until the servants of God were sealed with the seal of the living God in their foreheads.” My Life Today, 308

2.b.  What determines the outcome of the coming conflict for each of us? Romans 8:6–8. What are the evidences of a carnal heart or mind? 1 Corinthians 3:3, 4 

Note: “As yet the four winds are held until the servants of God shall be sealed in their foreheads. Then the powers of earth will marshal their forces for the last great battle. How carefully we should improve the little remaining period of our probation!

“Minds that have been given up to loose thought need to change. … The thoughts must be centered upon God. Now is the time to put forth earnest effort to overcome the natural tendencies of the carnal heart.” Maranatha, 243

Tuesday

3 A SOLEMN TASK

3.a. Explain how the sealing work involves the third angel of Revelation 14. What shows the solemn importance of being fully sanctified? Revelation 14:9–12; 1 Thessalonians 5:23, 24

Note: “I … saw the third angel. Said my accompanying angel, ‘Fearful is his work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel that is to select the wheat from the tares, and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heavenly garner. These things should engross the whole mind, the whole attention.’ ” Early Writings, 118

“Many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully.

“I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and were looking to the time of ‘refreshing’ and the ‘latter rain’ to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who refuse to be hewed by the prophets and fail to purify their souls in obeying the whole truth, and who are willing to believe that their condition is far better than it really is, will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building. But there will be no time then to do it and no Mediator to plead their cause before the Father.” Ibid., 71

3.b What final blessing does God bestow especially to prepare the harvest of souls for His kingdom? Joel 2:23; Zechariah 10:1

Note: “The sins of Israel must go to judgment beforehand. Every sin must be confessed at the sanctuary, then the work will move. It must be done now. …

“When the four angels let go, Christ will set up His kingdom. None receive the latter rain but those who are doing all they can. Christ would help us. All could be overcomers by the grace of God, through the blood of Jesus.” Spalding and Magan Collection, 2a, 2, 3

Wednesday

4 CONDITIONS FOR THE LATTER RAIN

4.a. What is required to receive the latter rain? Isaiah 43:25; 44:22

Note: “The names of some will be blotted out of the book of life. Whose shall it be? Let us each examine ourselves carefully to see if we are in the faith; let us be diligent to make sure work for eternity. Jesus says that He will confess the name of the overcomer before His Father, and before the holy angels.” Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, 139

“Those that overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil, will be the favored ones who shall receive the seal of the living God. Those whose hands are not clean, whose hearts are not pure, will not have the seal of the living God. Those who are planning sin and acting it will be passed by. Only those who, in their attitude before God, are filling the position of those who are repenting and confessing their sins in the great anti-typical day of atonement, will be recognized and marked as worthy of God’s protection.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 445

“No special work for God can be accomplished until self and selfishness are overcome.” Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, 139

“Those who come up to every point, and stand every test, and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True Witness, and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation.” Testimonies, Vol. 1, 187

“We want the deep movings of the Spirit of God in our hearts, that we may not only be able to secure for ourselves the white raiment, but that we may so influence others that their names may be entered in the book of life, never to be blotted out.” Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, 140

4.b. What should we realize about the latter rain? Hosea 6:3; Acts 3:19

Note: “The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel, are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are ‘the times of refreshing’ to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said, ‘Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out [in the Investigative Judgment], when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus.’ [Acts 3:19, 20].

“Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from Heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given.” The Great Controversy, (1888), 611, 612

Thursday

5 ULTIMATE VICTORY

5.a. When Jesus completes His ministry in heaven, what encouraging declaration will He make in behalf of the overcomers? Revelation 22:11, last part

5.b. How may we realize the wonderful promises made to all who gain the victory through the blood of the Lamb? Revelation 22:14; Isaiah 26:2–4

Note: “Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers gather about the throne of God and of the Lamb. … They will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All their sins have been blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity.

“My brother, my sister, I urge you to prepare for the coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven. Day by day cast the love of the world out of your hearts. Understand by experience what it means to have fellowship with Christ. Prepare for the judgment, that when Christ shall come, to be admired in all them that believe, you may be among those who will meet Him in peace. In that day the redeemed will shine forth in the glory of the Father and the Son. The angels, touching their golden harps, will welcome the King and His trophies of victory—those who have been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. A song of triumph will peal forth, filling all heaven. Christ has conquered. He enters the heavenly courts, accompanied by His redeemed ones, the witnesses that His mission of suffering and sacrifice has not been in vain.” Testimonies, Vol. 9, 285, 286

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    With Christ’s help, why must we overcome our character defects?

2    Why has Jesus bidden four mighty angels to hold back the winds?

3    What do many people misunderstand about the latter rain?

4    If our sins are blotted out, with what blessed task can God entrust us?

5    What can I do today to ensure I am one of the ultimate overcomers?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

“As a Lamp That Burns”

by

June 15 – 21, 2025

Key Text

“For Zion’s sake will I not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns.” Isaiah 62:1

Study Help: Testimonies, Vol. 5, 157–162, 307, 308, 385–389

Introduction

“Let us not allow the light which is in us to go out because we refuse to give that light to others.” Pacific Union Recorder, February 20, 1908

Sunday

1 AWAKENING OUR PRIORITIES

  1. What is God’s goal for His church? Isaiah 62:1, 12

Note: “There is no greater evidence that those who have received great light do not appreciate that light, than is given by their refusal to let their light shine upon those who are in darkness.” The Review and Herald, July 16, 1895

“If you … were in a saved state, you would all feel the perilous condition of the unsaved. The day will come, unless a great change is wrought in you, when you will hear from many lips. ‘I associated with these Christians, yet they never told me of my danger. They never warned me. I thought that if I was in danger of being lost, they would not rest day or night without arousing me to see my lost condition. Now I am lost. If I had been in their place and had seen one in a similar condition, I would not have rested until I had made them sensible of their state and pointed them to the only One who can save them.’ ” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 181, 182

“What can be said to the idlers that will lead them to understand, and arouse them from their do-nothing position? O, that Zion would arouse and put on her beautiful garments. Brethren and sisters, as members of the church, let us act our part faithfully. …

“God has given to every man his work; not one is excused from service.” Pacific Union Recorder, February 20, 1908

Monday

2 IN AN AGE OF MORAL DARKNESS

2.a. How is it that morning and night are coming at the same time? Isaiah 21:11, last part, 12

Note: “Everything seems to be stirred with an intense activity from beneath. Excitement is continually kept up. Feasting, buying, and selling, are brought into the churches. The watchman cries, ‘The morning cometh, and also the night.’ The night symbolizes prevalence of error, misinterpretation and misapplication of Scripture. Every species of delusion is now being brought in. The plainest truths of God’s word are covered with a mass of man-made theories. Deadly errors are presented as the truth to which all must bow. The simplicity of true godliness is buried beneath tradition.” The Bible Echo, February 1, 1897

“A great work is to be done in the world, and what efforts are we making for its accomplishment? The people have had too much sermonizing; but have they been taught how to labor for those for whom Christ died? Has a line of labor been devised and placed before them in such a way that each has seen the necessity of taking part in the work?

“It is evident that all the sermons that have been preached have not developed a large class of self-denying workers. This subject is to be considered as involving the most serious results. Our future for eternity is at stake.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 431

“We are certainly living in the closing days of this earth’s history. We need to devote much time to our spiritual interests, if we would experience the spiritual growth that is essential in this age. We are to make decided reforms. The Voice said: The watchmen need to awake, and give the trumpet a certain sound. The morning cometh; and also the night. Wake up, My watchmen. Voices that should now be heard presenting the truth are silent. Souls are perishing in their sins, and ministers and physicians and teachers are asleep. Wake up the watchmen!” Pacific Union Recorder, February 20, 1908

2.b. What is the light and glory of the Lord, and what is the darkness described in Isaiah 60:1, 2?

Note: “The churches are withering up because they have failed to use their talents in diffusing the light of truth to others. Careful instruction should be given that will be as lessons from the Master that all may put their light to practical use in benefiting others.” The Review and Herald, February 28, 1893

Tuesday

3 RESULTS PROMISED

3.a. What is promised to those who seek to communicate God’s message to the world? Proverbs 1:23; Luke 24:39; Acts 1:7, 8; Luke 11:9–13; Ephesians 1:13, 14

Note: “All who have received the light of truth are placed under solemn obligations to let that light shine forth to others. Each can, in his humble sphere, do something for the Master. He may not be able to make magnificent offerings to advance the cause of God, but he can give the willing, cheerful, service of an obedient heart. All cannot be preachers; all cannot be generals in the army of the Lord; but all can be faithful privates, following in humble obedience the commands of the Captain of their salvation. They can cheer their companions with words of hope and courage, and by so doing will show forth the praises of Him who hath called them out of darkness into His marvelous light. God demands of all the very best service that they can give. If they can only do the lowly errands for Him, these should not be neglected.” The Review and Herald, August 24, 1886

“Church members need to be taught that the measure of their success in ministering to souls will be the measure of their self-denial and their faithfulness in following Christ’s example.” Pacific Union Recorder, February 20, 1908

3.b. What results from faithful efforts to share light? Zechariah 8:20–23

Note: “God will move upon men of humble position in society, men who have not become insensible to the bright rays of light through so long contemplating the light of truth, and refusing to make any improvement or advancement therein. Many such will be seen hurrying hither and thither, constrained by the Spirit of God to bring the light to others. The truth, the word of God, is as a fire in their bones, filling them with a burning desire to enlighten those who sit in darkness. Many, even among the uneducated, now proclaim the words of the Lord. Children are impelled by the Spirit to go forth and declare the message from Heaven. The Spirit is poured out upon all who will yield to its promptings, and, casting off all man’s machinery, his binding rules and cautious methods, they will declare the truth with the might of the Spirit’s power. Multitudes will receive the faith and join the armies of the Lord.” The Review and Herald, July 23, 1895

Wednesday

4 COURAGE AMID OPPOSITION

4.a. Describe the experience of Jeremiah when mocked and derided while witnessing for God, and how he overcame his fears. Jeremiah 20:7–11

Note: “Because of the bitterness, hatred, and opposition manifested against the word of God spoken in reproof, many other messengers of God have decided to do as Jeremiah decided. But what did this prophet of the Lord do after his decision? Try as much as he would, he could not hold his peace. As soon as he came into the assemblies of the people, he found that the Spirit of the Lord was stronger than he was. …

“In this generation, when God’s servants speak the word of the Lord to reprove wrongdoers, to rebuke those who bring in wrong principles, have they not had an experience similar to that which Jeremiah had? When a course of action to pervert justice and judgment is introduced, the word of the Lord must be spoken in reproof.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1156

4.b. What should we learn from how prophets and apostles shared God’s messages with such tremendous power? Micah 3:8; 1 Corinthians 2:4, 5

Note: “The word of God was preached by His ministers in early days ‘in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.’ The hearts of men were stirred by the proclamation of the gospel. Why is it that the preaching of the truth has now so little power to move the people? Is God less willing to bestow His blessing upon the laborers in His cause in this age than in the apostles’ day?

“The warning which we bear to the world must prove to them a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. And will the Lord send forth His servants to proclaim this fearfully solemn message and withhold from them His Holy Spirit? Shall frail, erring men, without special grace and power from God, dare to stand between the living and the dead to speak the words of everlasting life? Our Lord is rich in grace, mighty in power; He will abundantly bestow these gifts upon all who come to Him in faith. He is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him than are parents to give good gifts to their children. The reason why the precious, important truth for this time is not powerful to save is that we do not work in faith.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 157, 158

Thursday

5 REAPING THE BOUNTY

5.a. What did the disciples learn from the miraculous catch of fish? Luke 5:4–10

Note: “Be not so self-caring. There are thousands whose lives are just as precious as yours. Then why do you wrap your coat about you, and hug the shore? Awake to duty and to usefulness! If you will launch out into the deep and let down your nets, the Master will gather in the fishes, and you will see of the mighty working of God. …

“Teach the people to have light in themselves, and not to depend upon the ministers. They should have Christ as their helper, and should educate themselves to help one another, so that the minister can be free to enter new fields.” Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, 139

“Our people have had great light, and yet much of our ministerial force is exhausted on the churches, in teaching those who should be teachers; enlightening those who should be ‘the light of the world.’ ” Evangelism, 382

5.b.  How is our Creator able to perform His work using the individuality He has graciously bestowed upon each one of us? Job 34:11; 37:7

Note: “Men with one talent may reach a class that those with two or five talents cannot approach. Great and small alike are chosen vessels to bear the water of life to thirsting souls. … Let God work through whom He will. The message must go.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 462

“My brethren and sisters, study your plans; grasp every opportunity of speaking to your neighbors and associates or of reading something to them from books that contain present truth. Show that you regard as of first importance the salvation of the souls for whom Christ has made so great a sacrifice.” Ibid., Vol. 9, 129

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Of what will many lost souls rightfully complain after it’s too late?

2    Beyond mere sermonizing, what is the heart of the church’s duty?

3    Explain God’s plan to enlighten the world with the present truth.

4    How is the example taught by Jeremiah to be rewarded?

5    In what ways can I wean myself from burdening the ministers?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Spiritual Vitality

by

June 8 – 14, 2025

Key Text

“Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4, last part

Study Help: Steps to Christ, 73–95

Introduction

“We cannot change ourselves; but the power of choice is ours, and it rests with us to determine what we will become.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 56

Sunday

1 A SYMBOL OF GOD’S CHARACTER

1.a. What did God direct Moses to place in the ark of the covenant? Deuteronomy 10:1–5

1.b.      What was the purpose of the law? Romans 3:20; 7:7; Deuteronomy 33:2, 3

Note: “The words written by the finger of God on tables of stone so perfectly reveal His will concerning His people that none need make any mistake.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 225

“The living God has given in His holy law a transcript of His character. The greatest Teacher the world has ever known is Jesus Christ. And what is the standard He has given for all who believe in Him to reach? ‘Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect’ (Matthew 5:48). As God is perfect in His high sphere of action, so man may be perfect in his human sphere. The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of continual advancement. We have an object to reach, a standard to gain which includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character.” In Heavenly Places, 141

Monday

2 REFLECTING HIS CHARACTER

2.a. Besides on tables of stone (Hebrews 9:3, 4; Deuteronomy 10:1–5; Revelation 11:19), where are the ten commandments to be written, and by whom? Hebrews 8:10; 2 Corinthians 3:3

2.b.      What will be the experience of those who have the law of God within their heart? Psalms 37:31; 40:8; 119:165

Note: “In mercy, God seeks to lead the unrighteous to repentance. The obedient will delight in the law of the Lord. He puts His laws in their minds, and writes them in their hearts. Their speech will be such as is prompted by an indwelling Saviour. They have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul from all the defilement of Satan’s suggestions. Their heart yearns after God. In their conversion they love to dwell upon His mercy and goodness, for to them He is altogether lovely. They learn the language of heaven, the country of their adoption.” The Upward Look, 297

2.c. What does it mean to live under God’s grace? Romans 6:4, 10–18; 8:1

Note: “Those who will accept Him [Christ] as their personal Saviour will grow in grace, and in His strength will be enabled to obey the law of God.” The Signs of the Times, February 11, 1897

“All true obedience comes from the heart. It was heart work with Christ. And if we consent, He will so identify Himself with our thoughts and aims, so blend our hearts and minds into conformity to His will, that when obeying Him we shall be but carrying out our own impulses. The will, refined and sanctified, will find its highest delight in doing His service. When we know God as it is our privilege to know Him, our life will be a life of continual obedience. Through an appreciation of the character of Christ, through communion with God, sin will become hateful to us.” The Desire of Ages, 668

“It is God who gives us power to overcome. Those who hear His voice and obey His commandments are enabled to form righteous characters.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 943

Tuesday

3 FRUITS OF OUR CONNECTION

3.a. How do we receive divine strength from Christ? John 15:1–4

Note: “All who take their position on the Lord’s side will, as branches of the True Vine, receive nourishment, and will be stimulated by the vine to bear like fruit. They will be in cooperation with God, according to their ability exercising themselves unto godliness by walking in newness of life, which is daily repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” The Review and Herald, February 23, 1897

3.b.      As we look to Jesus in the sanctuary above, what will our experience become? How does this also involve church relationships? Ephesians 2:4–6, 10; Hebrews 10:23–25

Note: “In a life of service to Christ, connection with the church is one of the first steps. Loyalty to Christ demands the faithful performance of church duties.” Education, 268, 269

“Notwithstanding our varying types of character, we are brought into church capacity through the profession of our faith. Christ is the head of the church; and if those whose names are on the church record do not belong to Jesus, the invisible Head, they are like the fruitless branch of the vine, and are taken away. If one is really a fruitful branch, he will make it manifest by bearing fruit, giving evidence of his absolute allegiance to Christ. He will have a spiritual connection with God. Faith and love constitute the gold of character, and will be ever working on the Lord’s side to unite and harmonize the members of Christ’s body.

“Name, position, or wealth will not weigh one jot in the scale with God. Men and women are admitted to the church who do it no honor. But however poor, whatever the rank, tribe, or nationality, all are to be heartily received on their confession of faith, if you have evidence that the grace of God, which brings salvation, has wrought upon the heart. …

“This faith in Christ is demonstrated by works; it produces a transformation of character through the effectual working of God’s Holy Spirit. … Contrition of soul will mark the experience of every one who has received the grace of Christ.” The Review and Herald, February 23, 1897

Wednesday

4 COMING INTO LINE

4.a. What is Christ’s goal for His church? Ephesians 5:1, 2, 27; Titus 2:13, 14

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

4.b.      How should church members relate to each other? 1 Peter 4:8–11; 1 John 1:7

Note: “Christ calls for unity. But He does not call for us to unify on wrong practices. The God of heaven draws a sharp contrast between pure, elevating, ennobling truth and false, misleading doctrines. He calls sin and impenitence by the right name.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 175

4.c. Describe some ways God purifies us. Proverbs 27:17; Isaiah 58:6–10

Note: “While the world needs sympathy, while it needs the prayers and assistance of God’s people, while it needs to see Christ in the lives of His followers, the people of God are equally in need of opportunities that draw out their sympathies, give efficiency to their prayers, and develop in them a character like that of the divine pattern.

“It is to provide these opportunities that God has placed among us the poor, the unfortunate, the sick, and the suffering. They are Christ’s legacy to His church, and they are to be cared for as He would care for them. In this way God takes away the dross and purifies the gold. …

“In placing among us the poor and the suffering, the Lord is testing us to reveal to us what is in our hearts.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 261

“Good works cost us a sacrifice, but it is in this very sacrifice that they provide discipline. These obligations bring us into conflict with natural feelings and propensities, and in fulfilling them we gain victory after victory over the objectionable traits of our characters.” Ibid., 262, 263

Thursday

5 THE TEST OF OUR DEVOTION

  1. What reveals whether we truly love God? 1John 3:14, 15, 18; 4:20, 21

 Note: “The sanctification of the soul by the working of the Holy Spirit is the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity. Gospel religion is Christ in the life—a living, active principle. It is the grace of Christ revealed in character and wrought out in good works. …

“Love is the basis of godliness. Whatever the profession, no man has pure love to God unless he has unselfish love for his brother. But we can never come into possession of this spirit by trying to love others. What is needed is the love of Christ in the heart. When self is merged in Christ, love springs forth spontaneously. The completeness of Christian character is attained when the impulse to help and bless others springs constantly from within—when the sunshine of heaven fills the heart and is revealed in the countenance.

“It is not possible for the heart in which Christ abides to be destitute of love. If we love God because He first loved us, we shall love all for whom Christ died.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 384

“A healthy Christian is one who has Christ formed within, the hope of glory. He loves truth, purity, and holiness, and will manifest spiritual vitality, having love for the word of God, and seeking communion with those who are acquainted with the word, in order that he may catch every ray of light that God has communicated to them, which reveals Christ and makes Him more precious to the soul. He who has sound faith finds that Christ is the life of the soul, that He is in him as a well of water springing up unto everlasting life, and he delights to conform every power of the soul to the obedience of his Lord.” The Review and Herald, December 11, 1894

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Why were the ten commandments to be preserved in the ark?

2    Describe the type of obedience the Lord longs to see in us.

3    What are some of the ways that discipleship of Christ is revealed?

4    Why is purity important for us, both individually and collectively?

5    How can I develop a deeper love both for Christ and others?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Order and Organization

by

Living in the Day of Atonement

June 1 – 7, 2025

Key Text

“Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 1 Corinthians 1:10

Study Help: Testimonies, Vol. 3, 343–362

Introduction

“God designs that His people shall be a unit, that they shall see eye to eye and be of the same mind and of the same judgment. This cannot be accomplished without a clear, pointed, living testimony in the church.” Testimonies, Vol. 3, 361

Sunday

1 DEVELOPING AN ORGANIZED MIND

  1. What question, asked to God by Manoah, should guide our desire for education? Judges 13:8, 12

Note: “The mind, the soul, is built up by that upon which it feeds.” Education, 126

“It is right for the youth to feel that they must reach the highest development of their mental powers. We would not restrict the education to which God has set no limit. But our attainments will avail nothing if not put to use for the honor of God and the good of humanity. Unless our knowledge is a steppingstone to the accomplishment of the highest purposes, it is worthless. …

“Heart education is of more importance than the education gained from books. It is well, even essential, to obtain a knowledge of the world in which we live; but if we leave eternity out of our reckoning, we shall make a failure from which we can never recover.” Child Guidance, 497

“A ‘Thus saith the Lord’ should guide you in all your plans of education.” Ibid., 69

“The mind is to be disciplined, trained, educated; for the child of God is to do service for God in ways that are not natural, or in harmony with inborn inclination. Those who become the followers of Christ find that new motives of action are supplied, new thoughts arise, and new actions must result.” Christian Education, 122

Monday

2 SELF-DISCIPLINE FOR ETERNITY

2.a. In our pursuit of knowledge, what should we be aware of in order to avoid an unbalanced state of health? Ecclesiastes 12:12

Note: “If the physical powers are not taxed equally with the mental, too much strain is brought upon the latter. Unless every part of the human machinery performs its allotted tasks, the mental powers cannot be used to their highest capacity for any length of time.” Christian Education, 211

“Much is lost by a neglect to unite physical with mental taxation. The leisure hours of the student are often occupied with frivolous pleasures, which weaken physical, mental, and moral powers. Under the debasing power of sensual indulgence, or the untimely excitement of courtship and marriage, many students fail to reach that height of mental development which they might otherwise have attained.” Ibid., 36, 37

“How prevalent is the habit of turning day into night, and night into day. Many youth sleep soundly in the morning, when they should be up with the early singing birds, and be stirring when all nature is awake. Let youth practice regularity in the hours for going to bed, and for rising and they will improve in health, in mind, in spirit, in disposition.” The Youth’s Instructor, September 7, 1893

2.b. What practical counsel does Paul give to the Thessalonians? 1 Thessalonians 4:11

Note: “As far as possible, it is well to consider what is to be accomplished through the day. Make a memorandum of the different duties that await your attention, and set apart a certain time for the doing of each duty. Let everything be done with thoroughness, neatness, and dispatch.” The Youth’s Instructor, September 7, 1893

2.c. What is like a city with broken-down walls? Proverbs 25:28

Note: “An ordinary mind, well disciplined, will accomplish more and higher work than will the most highly educated mind and the greatest talents without self-control.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 335

Tuesday

3 INCREASING OUR WISDOM

3.a. How should we perform tasks? Colossians 3:23, 24

Note: “Of one girl whom I employed, I was told that she would sit down in the midst of her unfinished work, when the dishes were not washed, or the beds made, and forget her duties while she read a book or a newspaper. In this way she would spend hours of time that should have been employed in doing the work for which she was paid. The house would be left in confusion for hours after it should have been in perfect order, because of this untidy habit.” The Youth’s Instructor, September 7, 1893

3.b.      What contrast exists between the wise and the foolish? Proverbs 9:8; 15:31

Note: “Of another whom I thought of employing. I learned that she was disrespectful to those who employed her, unless she took a fancy to them. Those whom she fancied, she would serve to her utmost, and the friends whom she chose, who flattered and approved her course, received her affection and favors. But I reasoned, ‘If she is a Christian, she will certainly take counsel and advice.’ A sorrowful expression came over the face of the person to whom I was speaking, as she said, ‘I am afraid you will be disappointed. If you seek to show her where she is erring, she will insist that she is doing the best she knows how, and instead of correcting her faults, will take on the air of one who is much injured. She does not respect authority, and will keep up rebellion in her mind, which, if not expressed in words, will be plainly revealed in her countenance. She will not keep her opinions to herself, but will freely tell others what she thinks about those who seek to correct her errors.’ ” The Youth’s Instructor, September 7, 1893

3.c. Although reproof is not easy to bear, what will assist in learning how to grow and succeed in life? Proverbs 17:10; 6:23

Note: “The Lord sends us warning, counsel, and reproof, that we may have opportunity to correct our errors before they become second nature.” Our High Calling, 160

Wednesday

4 ORDER THAT HONORS GOD

4.a.  In what does the New Testament teach about order in the church? 1 Corinthians 1:10; 14:40; 12:27, 28

Note: “The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world.” The Acts of the Apostles, 9

4.b.  Looking back in history, explain how Korah challenged God’s appointed leaders and the powerful way God stopped his rebellion. Numbers 16:1–3, 28–35. How did Korah use flattery to deceive the people?

Note: “Korah and his company, who aspired to the priesthood in their self-confidence, even ventured to take the censers and to stand in the door of the tabernacle with Moses. Korah had cherished his envy and rebellion until he was self-deceived, and he really thought the congregation were righteous, and that Moses was a tyrannical ruler. The people, flattered by their rebellious leaders, had been led to believe that all their troubles originated with Moses, who was continually reminding them of their sins. They thought that if Korah could lead them, and encourage them, and dwell upon their righteous acts instead of reminding them of their failures, they would have a very peaceful, prosperous journey, and he would without doubt lead them, not back and forward in the wilderness, but into the promised land.” The Signs of the Times, September 9, 1880

4.c. How did God endorse Moses’ ministry of reproof? Numbers 17:1–10

Note: “This wonderful rod was preserved to be frequently shown to the people to remind them of the past, to prevent them from murmuring, and again calling in question to whom the priesthood rightfully belonged. After the children of Israel were fully convinced of their wrong, in unjustly accusing Moses and Aaron, as they had done, they saw their past rebellion in its true light, and they were terrified.” Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 4a, 35, 36

Thursday

5 REPROVING POPULAR SINS

5.a. Why did the ark contain the pot of manna and Aaron’s rod that budded? Hebrews 9:4; Numbers 17:1–5; Exodus 16:32–35

Note: “The Hebrews were not willing to submit to the directions and restrictions of the Lord. They were restless under restraint, and unwilling to receive reproof. This was the secret of their murmuring against Moses. Had they been left free to do as they pleased, there would have been fewer complaints against their leader. All through the history of the church God’s servants have had the same spirit to meet.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 404

5.b.      What character of ministry is needed in order to prepare God’s people to meet the Lord in peace? 2 Timothy 4:1–5; Titus 2:11–15

Note: “We do not consider that our dangers are any less than those of the Hebrews, but greater. There will be temptations to jealousies and murmurings, and there will be outspoken rebellion, as are recorded of ancient Israel. There will ever be a spirit to rise up against the reproof of sins and wrongs. But shall the voice of reproof be hushed because of this? If so, we shall be in no better situation than are the various denominations in our land who are afraid to touch the errors and prevailing sins of the people.

“Those whom God has set apart as ministers of righteousness have solemn responsibilities laid upon them to reprove the sins of the people.” Testimonies, Vol. 3, 358, 359

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Name some points to remember about how our minds must be developed.

2    Why is temperance needed, even in intellectual pursuits?

3    Name some faulty work habits that should be overcome.

4    In what ways does the rebellion of Korah repeat itself today?

5    What solemn duty rests upon ministers and leaders at this hour?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Recipe – Granola Bars

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Dates

The date is the superfood of nature: a powerhouse of minerals, energy and fiber. But how much do we know about this rich, creamy piece of goodness? Here are a few interesting facts about dates:

The word date comes from the Greek word daktylos, meaning “finger,” because a date looks like the tip of a finger.
About 3% of the earth’s farmland is covered by date palms, producing four million tons a year.
There are more than 200 varieties of dates. Egypt is the top date producing country.
Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics mark years with images of full date palms, as the trees grow 12 new fronds a year.
One cup of dates has about 380 calories, 27% of the recommended daily requirement of potassium and 48% of daily fiber needs, and also provide calcium, zinc, iron, copper, magnesium, and other minerals.
An adult can survive with only 15 date fruits per day, which gives the body all the necessary minerals and vitamins for its existence.
While dates are high in sugar, many varieties have a low glycemic index (a tool that measures how foods affect blood sugar levels), due to the fact that its fruit sugar is high in dietary fiber.
Bedouin tribes of the Middle East, who include a high percentage of dates in their diet, have one of the lowest rates of cancer.

Sources: bateel.com/bateel-gourmet/all-about-dates; healthline.com/nutrition/glycemic-index

Recipe – Granola Bars

Ingredients

1 cup dates, soaked for 20 minutes in hot water

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup tahini, or any nut butter

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

1 tsp. cardamom, or to taste

1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup dried figs, chopped

1 pinch salt

1/4 cup carob chips

Process

Process softened dates in a food processor until smooth. Add maple syrup and tahini and process until mixed, scraping down sides if needed. In a separate bowl, combine oats, cardamom, seeds, coconut, cranberries, figs, salt, and date mixture. Mix until well combined. Stir in carob chips.

Line an 8 x 8-inch pan with parchment paper. Spread out mixture with water dampened hands until flattened. Bake at 350° F. for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy on top. Allow to sit for about an hour before cutting into 16 bars.

Wicked Imaginations

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“An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations.”

Proverbs 6:18, first part

There are seven deadly sins that God hates, and they are noticeably the spring from which all sin flows. However, it is a simple fact that too many people are not aware of the real issue which plagues us, that gives rise to our overt responses, dictates our actions, and molds our characters.

The children’s Sabbath School song still rings true.

“Watch your eyes, watch your eyes, what they see

“Watch your ears, watch your ears, what they hear

“Watch your lips, watch your lips, what they say

“Watch your hands, watch your hands, what they do

“Watch your feet, watch your feet, where they go

“For there’s a Father up above, looking down in tender love

“Watch your eyes, your ears, your lips, your hands, your feet.”

Interestingly, the song begins with the key entry points to our minds, our eyes and ears—what we see and what we hear, what Inspiration describes as “avenues of the soul.” Next it addresses what we say with our lips, do with our hands, and where our feet take us. This is a step-by-step process that begins with what we see and the internal reaction it invokes, coupled with what we hear, which causes us to say, do, and go. Our lips express what is in our minds (Luke 6:45), our hands are the instruments which perform what is in our soul, and our feet are the vehicles that transport us to where we need to go in order to fulfill what has been hatched in our minds.

Sadly, the majority of the time, the things which we look at and listen to are not wholesome and suitable for the formation of a moral and Christlike character! How important then that we guard mainly what we see and hear.

The Wisest Man

Solomon lays out a formula for the preservation of the mind.

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.” Proverbs 4:23–27

“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.” (Nephesh, in Hebrew means “heart, mind, soul, life, or the entirety or essence of a person”) Proverbs 23:7

“Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them. For their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.” Proverbs 24:1, 2

“The heart is deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9

“O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” Matthew 12:34

“But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are [the things] which defile a man … .” Matthew 15:18–20 (Kardia, the Greek word for heart used by Matthew in these passages, means “the thoughts or feelings, the mind.”)

“An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations.” Proverbs 6:18. This is the fourth deadly sin which God hates. According to the Hebrew, “wicked imaginations” literally means “thoughts of iniquity,” and all of this begins in the heart or the mind. Let us remember that there are evil thoughts in the minds of all human beings: but the devising, fabricating of them, and thus making the mind into the devil’s workshop, is the mark of utter depravity and wickedness, and therefore is repugnant to God.

This was the state of mind of the majority of the people in Noah’s day. Moses records, “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” Genesis 6:5. In Paul’s day, it was no different, for he tells us of the spiritual disposition of the people of his time, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” Romans 1:21

We also read Paul’s account in his letter to the Ephesians, “This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.” Ephesians 4:17–19

The question that we need to answer is, how does the mind become the fountain of “wicked imaginations” or “thoughts of iniquity?” Paul gives us the answer.

“And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” Romans 1:28–32

People’s minds become the reservoir for “thoughts of iniquity” because they choose to reject the ways of God for the ways of Satan. They find pleasure in dwelling upon the things of unrighteousness rather than holy things. This was the attitude of the church people who had apostatized from the Lord in Jeremiah’s days.

“Now therefore go to, speak to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the Lord; Behold, I frame evil against you, and devise a device against you: return ye now everyone from his evil way, and make your ways and your doings good. And they said, There is no hope: but we will walk after our own devices, and we will everyone do the imagination of his evil heart.” Jeremiah 18:11, 12

Furthermore, Paul told Timothy that in the last days some people would have “their conscience seared (to brand; to render insensitive) with a hot iron.” 1 Timothy 4:2

Understanding the gravity of the matter, the servant of the Lord wrote, “All should guard the senses, lest Satan gain victory over them; for these are the avenues of the soul.

“You will have to become a faithful sentinel over your eyes, ears, and all your senses if you would control your mind and prevent vain and corrupt thoughts from staining your soul. The power of grace alone can accomplish this most desirable work.” Counsels for the Church, 166

And Peter states, “Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:13

“The apostle sought to teach the believers how important it is to keep the mind from wandering to forbidden themes, or from spending its energies on trifling subjects. Those who would not fall a prey to Satan’s devices, must guard well the avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impure thoughts. The mind must not be left to dwell at random upon every subject that the enemy of souls may suggest. The heart must be faithfully sentineled, or evils without will awaken evils within, and the soul will wander in darkness.” The Review and Herald, July 25, 1912

We must ask ourselves, what do I relish looking at and listening to on social media (Facebook, SnapChat, X, etc.), in books and magazines, on television and radio, and online gaming? Do the things that I look at or listen to cause me to love Jesus more? Do they encourage me to live the holy life? Or do they inspire me to desire those things that are ungodly? Does online gaming, which often depicts stealing, murder, war and death, and other violations of God’s law pull me away from things which pertain to Jesus Christ? Do these social media mediums reinforce in my mind unholy traits that cause me to speak and act in unChristlike ways?

Jesus used a similar expression as Peter, when He said, “Let your loins be girded about … .” Luke 12:35. What must the Christian gird his or her mind with? “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth … .” Ephesians 6:14. Jesus is the Truth. The word girt used in this verse has the same meaning as the word gird used by Jesus and Peter. It means “gird all around.” Why is it so important that we do this?

“Satan and his angels are busy creating a paralyzed condition of the senses so that cautions, warnings, and reproofs shall not be heard; or, if heard, that they shall not take effect upon the heart and reform the life.” Counsels for the Church, 166

“All who name the name of Christ need to watch and pray and guard the avenues of the soul; for Satan is at work to corrupt and destroy if the least advantage is given him.” Testimonies, Vol. 3, 476

We also are reminded, “It is a law both of the intellectual and the spiritual nature, that by beholding, we become changed. The mind gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon which it is allowed to dwell. It becomes assimilated to that which it is accustomed to love and reverence.” The Great Controversy (1888), 555

“The mind of a man or woman does not come down in a moment from purity and holiness to depravity, corruption, and crime. It takes time to transform the human to the divine, or to degrade those formed in the image of God to the brutal or the satanic. By beholding we become changed.” The Adventist Home, 330

Sadly, we daily witness the display of “wicked imaginations” or “thoughts of iniquity.” These “wicked imaginations” are reflected on the billboards along our streets, on the television and social media, in books and magazines, from the music of the day. They speak to mankind’s hopeless condition. God abhors this fourth deadly sin because it corrupts the mind and pollutes the motives, thus leaving the soul morally and spiritually bankrupt.

A man in such a condition has no desire for spiritual things, but instead craves the unfruitful works of darkness. His conscience is rendered insensitive to any and everything that is holy. It is interesting that this fourth deadly sin is no respecter of persons. It doesn’t care who you are. Much like a boa constrictor wraps itself around its prey, squeezing ever more tightly, until it dies and is consumed. This kind of sin holds its captive prisoner until he or she becomes spiritually and morally depraved, dead to righteousness, as a result.

But Jesus offers hope. “Blessed (happy) are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8. Those who do not entertain “wicked imaginations” will be happy because they will have peace in this world and will spend an eternity with God in the next.

May David’s prayer be our prayer, too. “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14

[All Scriptures from the KJV.]

Pastor Ivan Plummer ministers through the Emmanuel Seventh Day Church Ministries in Bronx, New York. He may be contacted by telephone at 718-882-3900.

The Health Benefits of Winter

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It is May, and the cold of winter and coolness of spring are mostly behind us as we welcome the summer months ahead. It probably seems untimely to talk about winter in May, but I hope that you will find the health benefits of winter interesting.

Every year, most years, from December through February—indoors and outdoors—we hear people say, “It is SO COLD out here!”, “I can’t wait until spring!”, “Look at all that snow.”, “[Groan] Ice!?”, “I have to shovel again?”

We can think of many unpleasant things about winter—cold, ice, snow, shorter days and longer nights, shoveling, sand, salt, dirty cars, depression, the flu, heavy coats, gloves, ear muffs, boots. On the other hand, there are those who are very positive toward winter because they can ski, snowboard, sled, ice skate, and simply enjoy the colder temperatures because there are people who really like winter.

But does winter really offer actual health benefits? Let’s take a look.

You Might be Smarter in Winter

Colder weather can help you think more clearly according to a 2017 study by Stanford University. The study found that some cognitive skills like decision-making and staying calm were performed with more control during colder weather. Study participants were less impulsive and were more likely to take on complex tasks in the winter than they would in the summer. The brain requires glucose to function and the body uses more glucose in the summer in order to keep its core temperature down, and it, therefore, has less for reasoning and recall.

Burn More

You burn more calories during cold weather because it takes a greater amount of energy to keep ourselves warm. Another American study in 2017 found that when the outside temperature hovered between 14° and 23° Fahrenheit, 34 percent more calories were burned while hiking than on a 50° day.

Do You Have Diabetes?

Exposure to mild cold temperatures will activate a diabetic’s “brown fat.” This is the tissue that produces heat and this helps to absorb excess sugar in the blood. Repeated exposure will lead to improved insulin sensitivity.

A 2017 study done by the University of Toronto found that pregnant women who were exposed to cold outdoor temperatures were less likely to develop gestational diabetes.

Achoooo!

Tree, grass, and weed pollens are reduced during the cold months of the year, thereby reducing allergy symptoms. However, all good things have a bad tradeoff—if you’re allergic to mold, that allergy can be worse in the cold.

Ahhhhh, Zzzzzz

When you lie down to sleep, your body’s core temperature drops over the next two hours in the summer. However, it happens faster in the winter. And when sunrise is later, you naturally sleep later.

Infections, viruses, and colds, oh my!

It is true that during the winter months, we are more likely to become the victim of an infection or virus. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we can energize our immune system with just a few minutes of exposure to frigid temperatures.

A Heart’s Work is Never Done

The heart works harder during the cold months to pump blood and maintain body temperature during periods of physical exertion. Exercising outdoors in the winter strengthens the heart muscle. However, here is another tradeoff—be careful if you are at risk for heart disease. Exercising outdoors too much can also raise your blood pressure and decrease oxygen to the brain, and that puts added stress on the heart.

Layer After Layer

Layering is the key to staying warm and dry during your daily excursions outside. Hypothermia and frostbite can happen quickly when the temperature is frigid, so keeping as much of the body as you can shielded from the cold, you are less likely to have to worry about those conditions. Cold temperatures, strong winds, and damp conditions will steal your body heat. Layering traps your body heat and becomes a kind of insulation against the elements.

What Can I Do?

Here are some suggestions for outdoor winter activities:

  • Brisk walking or hiking
  • Jogging or running
  • Raking leaves
  • Shoveling snow
  • Ice skating
  • Skiing
  • Sledding
  • Snowboarding
  • Cross-country skiing

Am I Blue?

Because the days are shorter and nights are longer, and ice and snow can often keep us homebound for days at a time, it isn’t surprising that we might experience depression. But exercising or even just standing on your front porch in the sunshine for a few minutes can improve your mood and help you take in vitamin D which is essential for our overall well-being, keeps our teeth and bones strong, and supports our immune system so that we might better fight off the infections and viruses (including Covid-19) that are more prevalent during the cold winter months. It also reduces inflammation, the risk of heart disease and the growth of cancer cells, and it can even help you lose some of those extra holiday pounds.

Did You Know? Because it gets wet so easily with sweat, rain, or snow, your first layer should not be cotton. The moisture will be trapped and you will feel colder and heavier. Use moisture wicking fabric (used in high-performance sportswear), then fleece, and then a thin waterproof layer.

Inspiration Says

We should follow the eight laws of health (pure air, sunlight, abstemiousness, rest, exercise, proper diet, water, and trust in divine power) during the cold months just as much as we do during the warmer ones.

“True religion and the laws of health go hand in hand.” Lift Him Up, 260

“I have been shown that a great amount of suffering might be saved if all would labor to prevent disease, by strictly obeying the laws of health. … Many have expected that God would keep them from sickness merely because they have asked Him to do so. But God did not regard their prayers because their faith was not made perfect by works. God will not work a miracle to keep those from sickness who have no care for themselves, but are continually violating the laws of health, and make no effort to prevent disease. When we do all we can on our part to have health, then may we expect that the blessed results will follow, and we can ask God in faith to bless our efforts for the preservation of health. He will then answer our prayer, if His name can be glorified thereby. But let all understand that they have a work to do. God will not work in a miraculous manner to preserve the health of persons who are taking a sure course to make themselves sick, by their careless inattention to the laws of health.

“In order to preserve health, temperance in all things is necessary—temperance in labor, temperance in eating and drinking. … The body, which God calls His temple, should be preserved in as healthy a condition as possible.” The Review and Herald, April 2, 1914

“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20

Source: readersdigest.ca/health/healthy-living/cold-weather-good-for-you; heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/getting-active/how-to-stay-active-in-cold-weather; healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/benefits-vitamin-d#may-support-weight-loss, accessibility: March, 2025