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Recipe – Lemon Dessert

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Lemon Dessert

1 package Mori-Nu Extra Firm Tofu

2 – 3.4-ounce boxes Instant JELL-O Lemon Pudding

1/3 cup lemonade concentrate

1 cup soy milk

Mix together in food processor or blender until smooth. Pour into a baked graham cracker crust. Chill for a few hours or overnight before serving.

Gelatin Dessert

12 ounces kosher gelatin (your choice of flavor)

1 1/2 cups boiling water

20-ounce can crushed pineapple, undrained

1 cup mashed bananas

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Mix gelatin with the boiling water until dissolved. Add remaining ingredients; chill until solid. Top with non-dairy whipped topping. Note: Pecan halves may be put on top of the dessert instead of mixing in walnuts, and then add the whipped topping.

Food for Life – Cancer Can Be Prevented Pt. II

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It is the job of the immune system to recognize, attack, and destroy foreign invaders, one of which is a cancerous cell. Therefore, anything that strengthens the immune system helps to ward off cancer. Vitamin A is essential in stimulation of the immune system. Plant products are the best source of beta-carotene and other relatives called carotenoids. These are the best forms of vitamin A for the body and its immune system. These compounds serve as antioxidants, which help the body dispose of chemicals called free radicals. Free radicals can genetically damage normal cells and set the stage for cancer. Vitamin A also helps body tissue to develop in a normal, orderly way. It is this lack of normal, orderly development that is common in cancerous cells. Vitamins C and E also play vital roles in antioxidant and free radical scavenger activity.

Whole foods provide more anticancer protection than does just taking vitamins. Another advantage to whole foods is the phytochemicals found in them. There are thousands of phytochemicals that seem to have a role in fighting cancer. An increased fiber intake clearly reduces the risk of developing colon cancer, and there is virtually no fiber in meat and animal products. Selenium, a trace mineral found in whole grains, has also been shown to decrease some forms of cancer.

Increased body weight, increased meal frequency, and eating between meals have been linked to an increase of several types of cancer, including colon cancer.

Regular exercise has many benefits, including increasing interleukin-1, plasma interferon levels, natural killer cells, and blood lymphocytes. Each of these is important in the fight against cancer. Although excess sunlight is harmful, sunlight in moderation may be helpful in preventing some forms of cancer. Adequate control of stress is also vital for a healthy immune system and the ability to fight cancerous cells.

By adapting a personal cancer preventative and protective lifestyle, we can greatly reduce our risk of cancer. Surely you want to have this protection against cancer and to share this information with the general public. Most cancers can be prevented! For a more detailed explanation of this topic, see Chapter two, “Good News About Cancer: It Can Be Prevented!” in the book Proof Positive by Dr. Neil Nedley (Nedley Publishing, Ardmore, Oklahoma, 1998.)

Question – What does God require of those who do not have health and strength of body?

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Question:

What does God require of those who do not have health and strength of body? Are they excused from the responsibility of doing God’s work?

Answer:

Praise God! God is love! We really do not understand love. Consequently, we do not always know how to relate to it, because we do not know what love expects of us. The best way to find that out is to study the Bible and the inspired writings that the Lord has given us.

We human beings sometimes go by feelings, thinking it is love when it is only emotional excitement. God has created emotions in us for our joy and happiness, but He also gave us a mind and a heart, which go deeper than emotions. He bids us to reason things out and decide what is best in each situation. Isaiah 1:18 says, “Come now and let us reason together.” It is not reasonable to expect a handicapped person to do what a strong, healthy individual can do.

God is not in need of our help. We are in need of the service that we can do to gain a character that will fit us for the heavenly society. Some individuals need to learn patience by being handicapped, some by responsibility, and some by illness and by whatever the Lord sees that is needed. God is more interested in our characters than in what we do, because our characters are all that we can take to heaven.

There are several texts that spell out what the Lord expects of us as individuals. “He hath showed thee, O man, what [is] good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8. “For if there be first a willing mind, [it is] accepted according to that a man hath, [and] not according to that he hath not.” 11 Corinthians 8:12.

Ellen White also gives counsel on this subject:

“Now when you can no longer be active, and infirmities press upon you, all that God requires of you is to trust Him. Commit the keeping of your soul to Him as unto a faithful Creator. His mercies are sure, His covenant is everlasting. Happy is the man whose hope is in the Lord his God, who keepeth truth forever. Let your mind grasp the promises and hold to them. If you cannot call to mind readily the rich assurance contained in the precious promises, listen to them from the lips of another. What fullness, what love and assurance are found in these words from the lips of God Himself, proclaiming His Love, His pity and interest in the children of His care:

“ ‘The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin’ (Exodus 34:6, 7).” Reflecting Christ, 281.

But everyone must witness for God in some way—maybe only by being patient with difficulty, maybe only by a smile during pain and distress, or maybe with words of encouragement. None of us are released from the responsibility of reflecting the character of Christ in some way.

Bible Study Guides – Parables from the Master Teacher – Meeting the Bridegroom

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September 22, 2019 – September 28, 2019

Key Text

“Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh. … Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping” (Mark 13:35, 36).

Study Help: Christ’s Object Lessons, 405–421.

Introduction

“It is in a crisis that character is revealed. When the earnest voice proclaimed at midnight, ‘Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him’ (Matthew 25:6), and the sleeping virgins were roused from their slumbers, it was seen who had made preparation for the event. Both parties were taken unawares; but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 412.

Sunday

A PARABLE FOR OUR DAY

  • With whom does the Lord compare the kingdom of heaven? Matthew 25:1, 2.

Note: “Christ with His disciples is seated upon the Mount of Olives. The sun has set behind the mountains, and the heavens are curtained with the shades of evening. In full view is a dwelling house lighted up brilliantly as if for some festive scene. The light streams from the openings, and an expectant company wait around, indicating that a marriage procession is soon to appear. …

“As Christ sat looking upon the party that waited for the bridegroom, He told His disciples the story of the ten virgins, by their experience illustrating the experience of the church that shall live just before His second coming.

“The two classes of watchers represent the two classes who profess to be waiting for their Lord. They are called virgins because they profess a pure faith.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 405, 406.

  • What was the difference between the wise and the foolish virgins? Matthew 25:3, 4.

Monday

DO NOT SLEEP AS DO OTHERS

  • What aroused the sleeping virgins? Matthew 25:5, 6. How was their experience repeated by God’s people in 1844?

Note: “By the tarrying of the bridegroom is represented the passing of the time when the Lord was expected, the disappointment, and the seeming delay. In this time of uncertainty, the interest of the superficial and halfhearted soon began to waver, and their efforts to relax; but those whose faith was based on a personal knowledge of the Bible had a rock beneath their feet, which the waves of disappointment could not wash away.” The Great Controversy, 394.

  • What warning does God give us concerning the times in which we live? Luke 21:36; 1Peter 4:7.

Note: “All we have to do with is this one day. Today we must be faithful to our trust. Today we must love God with all the heart and our neighbor as ourselves. Today we must resist the temptations of the enemy, and through the grace of Christ gain the victory. Thus we shall watch and wait for Christ’s coming. Each day we should live as if we knew that this would be our last day on this earth. If we knew that Christ would come tomorrow, would we not crowd into today all the kind words, all the unselfish deeds, that we could?” In Heavenly Places, 355.

  • What can we do to arouse from our sleeping condition? Romans 13:11–14.

Note: “We must be much in prayer if we would make progress in the divine life. When the message of truth was first proclaimed, how much we prayed. How often was the voice of intercession heard in the chamber, in the barn, in the orchard, or the grove. Frequently we spent hours in earnest prayer, two or three together claiming the promise; often the sound of weeping was heard and then the voice of thanksgiving and the song of praise. Now the day of God is nearer than when we first believed, and we should be more earnest, more zealous, and fervent than in those early days. Our perils are greater now than then. Souls are more hardened. We need now to be imbued with the spirit of Christ, and we should not rest until we receive it.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 161, 162.

Tuesday

THE NEED FOR OIL

  • What happened when the virgins awoke and went to trim their lamps? Matthew 25:7–9.

Note: “In the parable, all the ten virgins went out to meet the bridegroom. All had lamps and vessels for oil. For a time there was seen no difference between them. So with the church that lives just before Christ’s second coming. All have a knowledge of the Scriptures. All have heard the message of Christ’s near approach, and confidently expect His appearing. But as in the parable, so it is now. A time of waiting intervenes, faith is tried; and when the cry is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him’ (Matthew 25:6), many are unready. They have no oil in their vessels with their lamps. They are destitute of the Holy Spirit.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 408.

  • What is represented by the lamps and the oil in the parable? Psalm 119:105; Zechariah 4:1–6. What does it mean to be destitute of the Holy Spirit?

Note: “Without the Spirit of God a knowledge of His word is of no avail. The theory of truth, unaccompanied by the Holy Spirit, cannot quicken the soul or sanctify the heart. One may be familiar with the commands and promises of the Bible; but unless the Spirit of God sets the truth home, the character will not be transformed.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 408.

  • How would you describe the foolish virgins today? 2 Timothy 3:5; Revelation 3:17.

Note: “The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites. They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit’s working. They have not fallen upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and permitted their old nature to be broken up. … They do not know God. They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live. Their service to God degenerates into a form.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 411.

Wednesday

MAKING EXCUSES FOR OUR DEFICIENCIES

  • What happened while the foolish virgins were separated from the wise virgins to buy oil for their lamps? Matthew 25:10.

Note: “The ten virgins are watching in the evening of this earth’s history. All claim to be Christians. All have a call, a name, a lamp, and all profess to be doing God’s service. All apparently wait for Christ’s appearing. But five are unready. Five will be found surprised, dismayed, outside the banquet hall.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 412.

“We cannot be ready to meet the Lord by waking when the cry is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom’ (Matthew 25:6)! and then gathering up our empty lamps to have them replenished. We cannot keep Christ apart from our lives here, and yet be fitted for His companionship in heaven.” Ibid., 413, 414.

  • What did the foolish virgins petition the Lord of the marriage feast to do? Matthew 25:11, 12.
  • How do we often react when we fail God, instead of acknowledging our sins and mistakes? What did Saul do, and what was Samuel’s response? 1 Samuel 15:18–22.

Note: “There is no time to make excuses and blame others for our backslidings; no time now to flatter the soul [that] if circumstances had only been more favorable, how much better, how much easier [it would be] for us to work the works of God. We must tell even those who profess to believe in Christ, that they must cease to offend God by sinful excuses.

“Jesus has provided for every emergency. If they will walk where He leads the way, He will make rough places plain. He, with His experience, will create an atmosphere for the soul. He closes the door and brings the soul into seclusion with God, and the needy soul is to forget everyone and everything, but God. Satan will talk with him, but speak aloud to God and He will drive back the hellish shadow of Satan. With humble, subdued, thankful hearts they will come forth saying, ‘Thy gentleness hath made me great’ (2 Samuel 22:36).” Manuscript Releases, vol. 12, 336.

Thursday

THE CALL FOR TODAY

  • What call does God have for us today? What promise does He make along with the call? Malachi 3:7, last part; Isaiah 44:22; 55:7.

Note: “Oh, the love, the wondrous love of God! After all our lukewarmness and sins He says, Return unto Me, and I will return unto thee, and will heal all thy backslidings.” Our High Calling, 352.

“Those who will now seek the Lord earnestly, humbling their hearts before Him, and forsaking their sins, will, through the sanctification of the truth, be fitted to unite with the members of the royal family, and will see the King in His beauty.” This Day With God, 248.

  • As we heed the call, what message does He give us to proclaim to the world? Isaiah 40:9.

Note: “The last rays of merciful light, the last message of mercy to be given to the world, is a revelation of His character of love. The children of God are to manifest His glory. In their own life and character they are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them.

“The light of the Sun of Righteousness is to shine forth in good works—in words of truth and deeds of holiness.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 415, 416.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     Who is represented by the two classes of virgins, and why are they called virgins?

2    What can we do in this waiting and watching time to prepare for Jesus’ soon coming?

3    What work does the Holy Spirit do in the life of those who are like the wise virgins?

4    Instead of blaming circumstances for our defects of character, what can we do instead?

5    How can God use us to give His last message of mercy to the world?

 

©2018, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – Parables from the Master Teacher – Actions Speak Louder Than Words

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September 15, 2019 – September 21, 2019

Key Text

“Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay” (Ecclesiastes 5:5).

Study Help: Christ’s Object Lessons, 272–283.

Introduction

“When the call comes, ‘Go work today in My vineyard’ (Matthew 21:28), do not refuse the invitation. ‘Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts’ (Hebrews 4:7). It is unsafe to delay obedience. You may never hear the invitation again.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 281.

Sunday

A QUESTION OF AUTHORITY

  • What question did the chief priests and elders ask Christ? Matthew 21:23.

Note: “The rulers [of Israel] had before them the evidences of His [Jesus] Messiahship. They now decided to demand no sign of His authority, but to draw out some admission or declaration by which He might be condemned. …

“They expected Him to claim that His authority was from God. Such an assertion they intended to deny.” The Desire of Ages, 593.

  • In return, what question did Christ put before them, and what answer did He receive? Matthew 21:24–27.

Note: “In His contest with the rabbis, it was not Christ’s purpose to humiliate His opponents. He was not glad to see them in a hard place. He had an important lesson to teach. He had mortified His enemies by allowing them to be entangled in the net they had spread for Him. Their acknowledged ignorance in regard to the character of John’s baptism gave Him an opportunity to speak, and He improved the opportunity by presenting before them their real position, adding another warning to the many already given.” The Desire of Ages, 594, 595.

Monday

THE PARABLE OF THE TWO SONS

  • Through what parable did Christ reveal the secrets of the hearts of the chief priests and elders? Matthew 21:28–31, first part.
  • Who was closer to the kingdom of God than the rulers among the Jews? Matthew 21:31, last part, 32.

 Note: “Whatsoever is done out of pure love, be it ever so little or contemptible in the sight of men, is wholly fruitful; for God regards more with how much love one worketh than the amount he doeth.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 135.

“It is not the great results we attain, but the motives from which we act, that weigh with God. He prizes goodness and faithfulness more than the greatness of the work accomplished.” Ibid., 510, 511.

  • How can we be like the older son in the parable of the two sons? 1John 3:7; James 4:17.

 Note: “Many today claim to obey the commandments of God, but they have not the love of God in their hearts to flow forth to others. Christ calls them to unite with Him in His work for the saving of the world, but they content themselves with saying, ‘I go, sir.’ They do not go. They do not co-operate with those who are doing God’s service. They are idlers. Like the unfaithful son, they make false promises to God. … In profession they claim to be sons of God, but in life and character they deny the relationship. They do not surrender the will to God. They are living a lie.

“The promise of obedience they appear to fulfill when this involves no sacrifice; but when self-denial and self-sacrifice are required, when they see the cross to be lifted, they draw back. Thus the conviction of duty wears away, and known transgression of God’s commandments becomes habit. The ear may hear God’s word, but the spiritual perceptive powers have departed. The heart is hardened, the conscience seared.

“Do not think that because you do not manifest decided hostility to Christ you are doing Him service. We thus deceive our own souls. By withholding that which God has given us to use in His service, be it time or means or any other of His entrusted gifts, we work against Him.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 279, 280.

Tuesday

HAVE WE ACCEPTED THE INVITATION?

  • By what invitation of the Saviour will many be tested? Matthew 21:28.

Note: “In the command, ‘Go work today in My vineyard’ (Matthew 21:28), the test of sincerity is brought to every soul. Will there be deeds as well as words? Will the one called put to use all the knowledge he has, working faithfully, disinterestedly, for the Owner of the vineyard?” Christ’s Object Lessons, 281.

  • What work does the Lord have for each of us to do? What does this work include? 2Peter 1:2–7.

 Note: “If you cultivate faithfully the vineyard of your soul, God is making you a laborer together with Himself. And you will have a work to do not only for yourself, but for others. In representing the church as the vineyard, Christ does not teach that we are to restrict our sympathies and labors to our own numbers. The Lord’s vineyard is to be enlarged. In all parts of the earth He desires it to be extended. As we receive the instruction and grace of God, we should impart to others a knowledge of how to care for the precious plants. Thus we may extend the vineyard of the Lord. God is watching for evidence of our faith, love, and patience.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 282.

  • Who is our great example in doing this work? Psalm 40:8.

Note: “Consider the life of Christ. Standing at the head of humanity, serving His Father, He is an example of what every son should and may be. The obedience that Christ rendered God requires from human beings today. He served His Father with love, in willingness and freedom. ‘I delight to do Thy will, O My God,’ He declared; ‘yea, Thy law is within My heart’ (Psalm 40:8). Christ counted no sacrifice too great, no toil too hard, in order to accomplish the work which He came to do. At the age of twelve He said, ‘Wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business?’ (Luke 2:49). He had heard the call, and had taken up the work. ‘My meat,’ He said, ‘is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work’ (John 4:34).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 282, 283.

Wednesday

PUTTING OUR UTMOST INTO HIS SERVICE

  • As we work for Him, to what degree does the Lord want us to surrender ourselves to Him? 1Thessalonians 5:23.

 Note: “In all our service a full surrender of self is demanded. The smallest duty done in sincerity and self-forgetfulness is more pleasing to God than the greatest work when marred with self-seeking. He looks to see how much of the spirit of Christ we cherish, and how much of the likeness of Christ our work reveals. He regards more the love and faithfulness with which we work than the amount we do.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 402.

“He who truly loves and fears God, striving with a singleness of purpose to do His will, will place his body, his mind, his heart, his soul, his strength, under service to God. … Those who are determined to make the will of God their own must serve and please God in everything.” In Heavenly Places, 190.

  • When is the Lord well pleased? Mark 1:11; John 8:29; 14:21; 15:10.

Note: “We should not obey the commandments merely to secure heaven, but to please Him who died to save sinners from the penalty of the transgression of the Father’s law. … It is a sad resolve to follow Christ as far off as possible, venturing as near the verge of perdition as possible without falling in.” Christ Triumphant, 77.

“In every phase of your character building you are to please God. This you may do; for Enoch pleased Him though living in a degenerate age. And there are Enochs in this our day.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 332.

  • What type of service is an abomination to God? Matthew 15:8, 9.

Note: “Some who claim to love Jesus are deceivers and all their religion is lip service. It does not transform the character. It does not reveal the inward working of grace. They do not show that they have ever learned in Christ’s school the lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. They do not show by life or character that they are wearing Christ’s yoke or lifting Christ’s burdens. They are not reaching the standard given them in God’s word, but a human standard.” This Day With God, 299.

Thursday

THE BLESSINGS OF A FULL COMMITMENT

  • What wonderful promises are given to those who serve the Lord in deed and in truth? John 14:23; Matthew 7:24, 25.

Note: “Of those who faithfully serve Him the Lord says, ‘They shall be Mine … in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him’ (Malachi 3:17).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 283.

“While we trust in Christ’s saving power, all the arts and wiles of the fallen host can do nothing to harm us. Heavenly angels are constantly with us, guiding and protecting. God has ordained that we shall have His saving power with us, to enable us to do all His will. Let us grasp the promises and cherish them moment by moment. Let us believe that God means just what He says. …

“As we lay hold of the power thus placed within our reach, we receive a hope so strong that we can rely wholly upon God’s promises; and laying hold of the possibilities there are in Christ, we become the sons and daughters of God. …

“To man is granted the privilege of becoming an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ. To those who have been thus exalted, are unfolded the unsearchable riches of Christ, which are of a thousandfold more value than the wealth of the world. Thus, through the merits of Jesus Christ, finite man is elevated to fellowship with God and with His dear Son.” In Heavenly Places, 32.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     While Christ did not intend to humble the rabbis, what was the purpose of His answer to them?

2    What causes us to draw back from service for Christ, like the older son in the parable of the two sons?

3    How can we follow Christ’s example of obedience when He was upon this earth?

4    How only can we be doers of the Word and not just those who render lip service?

5    What is possible for us as we trust in God’s saving power?

Bible Study Guides – Parables from the Master Teacher – When to Forgive

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September 8, 2019 – September 14, 2019

Key Text

“But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15).

Study Help:  Christ’s Object Lessons, 243–251.

Introduction

“Nothing can justify an unforgiving spirit. He who is unmerciful toward others shows that he himself is not a partaker of God’s pardoning grace. In God’s forgiveness the heart of the erring one is drawn close to the great heart of Infinite Love. The tide of divine compassion flows into the sinner’s soul, and from him to the souls of others.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 251.

Sunday

WE MUST BE LONG-SUFFERING

  • What lesson was Jesus trying to teach Peter regarding his view of forgiveness? Matthew 18:21, 22.

Note: “The rabbis limited the exercise of forgiveness to three offenses. Peter, carrying out, as he supposed, the teaching of Christ, thought to extend it to seven, the number signifying perfection. But Christ taught that we are never to become weary of forgiving.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 243.

  • How should we treat those who injure us? Why? Luke 17:3; Galatians 6:1.

Note: “Too often when wrongs are committed again and again, and the wrongdoer confesses his fault, the injured one becomes weary, and thinks he has forgiven quite enough. …

“If your brethren err, you are to forgive them. … You should not say … I do not think they feel their confession. What right have you to judge them, as if you could read the heart? … And not only seven times, but seventy times seven—just as often as God forgives you.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 249, 250.

Monday

A GREAT DEBT FORGIVEN

  • In the parable of the debtors, what fate was about to befall a servant who owed a great debt to his king? Matthew 18:23–25.
  • How did the king respond to the servant’s plea for mercy? Matthew 18:26, 27.

Note: “The pardon granted by this king represents a divine forgiveness of all sin. Christ is represented by the king, who, moved with compassion, forgave the debt of his servant. Man was under the condemnation of the broken law. He could not save himself, and for this reason Christ came to this world, clothed His divinity with humanity, and gave His life, the just for the unjust. He gave Himself for our sins, and to every soul He freely offers the blood-bought pardon. ‘With the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is plenteous redemption’ (Psalm 130:7).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 244, 245.

  • As we have received abundant forgiveness from Christ for our own sins, what obligation does this pardon place us under? 1John 4:11; Matthew 10:8.

 Note: “There are no sins He [God] will not forgive in and through the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the sinner’s only hope, and if he rests here in sincere faith, he is sure of pardon and that full and free. There is only one channel and that is accessible to all, and through that channel a rich and abundant forgiveness awaits the penitent, contrite soul and the darkest sins are forgiven.” The Faith I Live By, 102.

“We ourselves owe everything to God’s free grace. Grace in the covenant ordained our adoption. Grace in the Saviour effected our redemption, our regeneration, and our exaltation to heirship with Christ. Let this grace be revealed to others.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 250.

“Nothing can justify an unforgiving spirit. He who is unmerciful toward others shows that he himself is not a partaker of God’s pardoning grace. In God’s forgiveness the heart of the erring one is drawn close to the great heart of Infinite Love. The tide of divine compassion flows into the sinner’s soul, and from him to the souls of others. The tenderness and mercy that Christ has revealed in His own precious life will be seen in those who become sharers of His grace.” Ibid., 251.

Tuesday

CHERISHING AN UNFORGIVING SPIRIT

  • How did the servant who had been forgiven a very large debt treat one of his fellow servants who owed him but a small sum? Matthew 18:28–30.

Note: “In the parable, when the debtor pleaded for delay, with the promise, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all’ (Matthew 18:29, last part), the sentence was revoked. The whole debt was canceled. And he was soon given an opportunity to follow the example of the master who had forgiven him. Going out, he met a fellow servant who owed him a small sum. He had been forgiven ten thousand talents; the debtor owed him a hundred pence. But he who had been so mercifully treated, dealt with his fellow laborer in an altogether different manner. His debtor made an appeal similar to that which he himself had made to the king, but without a similar result. He who had so recently been forgiven was not tenderhearted and pitiful. The mercy shown him he did not exercise in dealing with his fellowservant.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 245.

  • What did the king do when he heard about this merciless action? Matthew 18:31–34. What lesson does this parable teach us?

Note: “He who refuses to forgive is thereby casting away his own hope of pardon.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 247.

  • What pattern of forgiveness did Jesus leave us in His own life? 1 Peter 2:23; Luke 23:34. How do we often fail in this regard?

Note: “We shall need to have the love of Christ, that we may not cherish an unforgiving spirit. Let us not think that unless those who have injured us confess their wrongs, we are justified in withholding from them our forgiveness. We should not accumulate our grievances, holding them to our hearts until the one we think guilty has humbled his heart by repentance and confession. … However sorely they may have wounded us, we are not to cherish our grievances and sympathize with ourselves over our injuries, but as we hope to be pardoned for our offenses against God, so must we pardon those who have done evil to us.” Sons and Daughters of God, 144.

Wednesday

THE CONDITION OF RECEIVING FORGIVENESS

  • What principle of forgiveness does Jesus present in the prayer He taught His disciples? Matthew 6:12, 14, 15. How only can we truthfully pray this prayer?

Note: “A great blessing is here asked upon conditions. We ourselves state these conditions. We ask that the mercy of God toward us may be measured by the mercy which we extend to others. Christ declares that this is the rule by which the Lord will deal with us: ‘If ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses’ (Matthew 6:14, 15). Wonderful terms! but how little are they understood or heeded. One of the most common sins, and one that is attended with most pernicious results, is the indulgence of an unforgiving spirit. How many will cherish animosity or revenge and then bow before God and ask to be forgiven as they forgive. Surely they can have no true sense of the import of this prayer or they would not dare take it upon their lips. We are dependent upon the pardoning mercy of God every day and every hour; how then can we cherish bitterness and malice toward our fellow sinners!” God’s Amazing Grace, 328.

  • What can we expect if we manifest an unforgiving spirit toward others, and why? Matthew 6:15; 18:34, 35.

Note: “We are not forgiven because we forgive, but as we forgive. The ground of all forgiveness is found in the unmerited love of God, but by our attitude toward others we show whether we have made that love our own. Wherefore Christ says, ‘With what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again’ (Matthew 7:2).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 251. [Emphasis author’s.]

  • How can we show others true forgiveness? Ephesians 4:32.

Note: “Let the tenderness and mercy that Jesus has revealed in His own precious life be an example to us of the manner in which we should treat our fellow beings.” My Life Today, 235.

Thursday

LOVE INSPIRES FORGIVENESS

  • What exchange did Christ make in our behalf? 1Peter 3:18.

 Note: “Christ was treated as we deserve, that we might be treated as He deserves. He was condemned for our sins, in which He had no share, that we might be justified by His righteousness, in which we had no share. He suffered the death which was ours, that we might receive the life which was His. ‘With His stripes we are healed’ (Isaiah 53:5, last part).” The Desire of Ages, 25.

  • What does He ask us to give in return? John 13:34.

Note: “Often have you needed the forgiveness of Jesus. You have been constantly dependent upon His compassion and love. Yet have you not failed to manifest toward others the spirit which Christ has exercised toward you? Have you felt a burden for the one whom you saw venturing into forbidden paths? Have you kindly admonished him? Have you wept for him and prayed with him and for him? Have you shown by words of tenderness and kindly acts that you love him and desire to save him?” Testimonies, vol. 5, 610.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     What should be our attitude when our brother or sister injures us several times and then says he or she is sorry? Why?

2    What must we learn to bear with in others? If we fail to bear with our brothers and sisters, what does this say about ourselves?

3    If those who have injured us do not confess what they have done, what should we do? Why?

4    What do we lack when we fail to forgive others?

5    How can we show the compassion and forgiveness of Christ toward those who have gone astray?

Bible Study Guides – Parables from the Master Teacher – The Good Samaritan

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September 1, 2019 – September 7, 2019

Key Text

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7).

Study Help: Christ’s Object Lessons, 376–389; Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 21–24.

Introduction

“In the story of the good Samaritan, Christ illustrates the nature of true religion. He shows that it consists not in systems, creeds, or rites, but in the performance of loving deeds, in bringing the greatest good to others, in genuine goodness.” The Desire of Ages, 497.

Sunday

CONDITIONS TO RECEIVING ETERNAL LIFE

  • How did Jesus answer the lawyer’s question regarding how to inherit eternal life? Luke 10:25, 26.

Note: “The conditions of salvation are ever the same. Life, eternal life, is for all who will obey God’s law. Perfect obedience, revealed in thought, word, and deed, is as essential now as when the lawyer asked Christ, ‘What shall I do to inherit eternal life’ (Luke 10:25)?” That I May Know Him, 299.

  • Which law did the lawyer mention, and how did Jesus reply? Luke 10:27, 28.

Note: “The lawyer was not satisfied with the position and works of the Pharisees. He had been studying the scriptures with a desire to learn their real meaning. He had a vital interest in the matter, and he asked in sincerity, ‘What shall I do?’ (Luke 10:25). In his answer as to the requirements of the law, he passed by all the mass of ceremonial and ritualistic precepts. For these he claimed no value, but presented the two great principles on which hang all the law and the prophets.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 377.

Monday

NEGLECTING OUR NEIGHBOR

  • What question was later asked by the lawyer, which prompted Jesus to tell a parable? Luke 10:29. Who is our neighbor today?

Note: “Our neighbor is every person who needs our help. Our neighbor is every soul who is wounded and bruised by the adversary. Our neighbor is every one who is the property of God. …

“Our neighbors are not merely our associates and special friends; they are not simply those who belong to our church, or who think as we do. Our neighbors are the whole human family. We are to do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. We are to give to the world an exhibition of what it means to carry out the law of God. We are to love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves.” My Life Today, 232.

  • What attitude do many have today, which shows that they do not love their neighbors? Whom are they copying? Genesis 4:9.

Note: “There has been too much of a spirit to ask, ‘Am I my brother’s keeper’ (Genesis 4:9)? Said the angel: ‘Yea, thou art thy brother’s keeper. Thou shouldest have a watchful care for thy brother, be interested for his welfare, and cherish a kind, loving spirit toward him. Press together, press together.’ God designed that man should be openhearted and honest, without affectation, meek, humble, with simplicity. This is the principle of heaven; God ordered it so. But poor, frail man has sought out something different—to follow his own way, and carefully attend to his own self-interest.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 113, 114. [Emphasis author’s.]

  • How do we know that this is not a godly attitude? Romans 14:7.

Note: “Every act of our lives affects others for good or evil. Our influence is tending upward or downward; it is felt, acted upon, and to a greater or less degree reproduced by others.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 133.

“By our unconscious influence others may be encouraged and strengthened, or they may be discouraged, and repelled from Christ and the truth.” Steps to Christ, 120.

Tuesday

THE TRUE NEIGHBOR REVEALED

  • Where did the man in the parable fall among thieves? Who passed by on the side of the road and left him half dead? Luke 10:30–32.

Note: “In journeying from Jerusalem to Jericho, the traveler had to pass through a portion of the wilderness of Judea. The road led down a wild, rocky ravine, which was infested with robbers, and was often the scene of violence. It was here that the traveler was attacked, stripped of all that was valuable, and left half dead by the wayside. As he lay thus, a priest came that way; he saw the man lying wounded and bruised, weltering in his own blood; but he left him without rendering any assistance. He ‘passed by on the other side’ (Luke 10:31). Then a Levite appeared. Curious to know what had happened, he stopped and looked at the sufferer. He was convicted of what he ought to do, but it was not an agreeable duty. He wished that he had not come that way so that he would not have seen the wounded man. He persuaded himself that the case was no concern of his, and he too ‘passed by on the other side’ (verse 32).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 379.

  • Who had mercy on the wounded man, and what did he do for him? Luke 10:33–35.

Note: “The priest and the Levite both professed piety, but the Samaritan showed that he was truly converted. It was no more agreeable for him to do the work than for the priest and the Levite, but in spirit and works he proved himself to be in harmony with God. …

“The priest and Levite neglected the very work the Lord had enjoined on them, leaving a hated and despised Samaritan to minister to one of their own countrymen.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 380, 381.

  • Whom did the lawyer acknowledge to be the true neighbor? How did he answer? Luke 10:36, 37.

Note: “The lawyer found in the lesson nothing that he could criticize. His prejudice in regard to Christ was removed. But he had not overcome his national dislike sufficiently to give credit to the Samaritan by name.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 380.

Wednesday

OVERCOMING PREJUDICE

  • Why did the lawyer answer the way he did? What attitude did the Jews have toward the Samaritans? John 4:9; 8:48, 49.

Note: “The great difference between the Jews and the Samaritans was a difference in religious belief, a question as to what constitutes true worship. The Pharisees would say nothing good of the Samaritans, but poured their bitterest curses upon them. So strong was the antipathy between the Jews and the Samaritans that to the Samaritan woman it seemed a strange thing for Christ to ask her for a drink.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 380.

  • What was Jesus’ example in ministering to those who were from different nationalities? Acts 10:38. What can we learn from this teaching? Matthew 23:8, last part.

 Note: “During His earthly ministry Christ began to break down the partition wall between Jew and Gentile, and to preach salvation to all mankind. Though He was a Jew, He mingled freely with the Samaritans, setting at nought the Pharisaic customs of the Jews with regard to this despised people. He slept under their roofs, ate at their tables, and taught in their streets.” The Acts of the Apostles, 19.

“No distinction on account of nationality, race, or caste, is recognized by God. He is the Maker of all mankind. All men are of one family by creation, and all are one through redemption.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 386.

  • How did the disciples later show that they had overcome their prejudice against other nations? Acts 8:25; 17:24–27.

Note: “Christ sought to teach the disciples the truth that in God’s kingdom there are no territorial lines, no caste, no aristocracy; that they must go to all nations, bearing to them the message of a Saviour’s love. But not until later did they realize in all its fullness that God ‘hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him, though He be not far from every one of us’ (Acts 17:26, 27).” The Acts of the Apostles, 20.

Thursday

REACHING OUT TO THOSE IN NEED

  • What does Jesus want us to learn from the parable of the good Samaritan? Luke 10:36, 37; Romans 12:20, 21.

Note: “We may claim to be followers of Christ, we may claim to believe every truth in the word of God; but this will do our neighbor no good unless our belief is carried into our daily life. Our profession may be as high as heaven, but it will save neither ourselves nor our fellow men unless we are Christians. A right example will do more to benefit the world than all our profession.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 383.

  • How does He want us to help those around us? Matthew 7:12; 10:8.

Note: “We should anticipate the sorrows, the difficulties, the troubles of others. We should enter into the joys and cares of both high and low, rich and poor. ‘Freely ye have received,’ Christ says, ‘freely give’ (Matthew 10:8). All around us are poor, tried souls that need sympathizing words and helpful deeds.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 386.

“Never should we pass by one suffering soul without seeking to impart to him the comfort wherewith we are comforted of God. …

“Upon your faithfulness in this work not only the well-being of others but your own eternal destiny depends.” Ibid., 388.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     How far-reaching should our obedience to God’s law be?

2    Who is our neighbor? What is our obligation to him or her?

3    The priest and the Levite made a high profession of their faith. What did the Samaritan have which the priest and the Levite failed to have?

4    How did Jesus begin to break down the walls of prejudice in His day?

5    If we are true Christians, how will we seek to help our fellowmen?

The Pen of Inspiration – Necessity of Harmony

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The Spirit of God will not abide where there is disunion and contention among believers in the truth. Even if these feelings are unexpressed, they take possession of the heart, and drive out the peace and love that should characterize the Christian church. They are the result of selfishness in its fullest sense. This evil may take the form of inordinate self-esteem, or of an undue longing for the approbation of others, even if that approbation is obtained undeservedly. Self-exaltation must be renounced by those who profess to love God and keep His commandments, or they need not expect to be blessed by His divine favor.

The moral and religious influence . . . must be elevated in order to meet the approbation of heaven. The indulgence of selfishness will surely grieve the Spirit of God from the place. . . . Helpers should work harmoniously in the spirit of Christ, each esteeming others better than himself.

The apostle Jude says: “Of some have compassion, making a difference.” [Jude 22.] This difference is not to be exercised in a spirit of favoritism. No countenance should be given to a spirit that implies: “If you favor me, I will favor you.” This is unsanctified, worldly policy, which displeases God. It is paying favors and admiration for the sake of gain. It is showing a partiality for certain ones, expecting to secure advantages through them. It is seeking their good will by indulgence, that we may be held in greater estimation than others fully as worthy as ourselves. It is a hard thing to see one’s own errors, but everyone should realize how cruel is the spirit of envy, rivalry, distrust, faultfinding, and dissension.

We call God our Father; we claim to be children of one family, and when there is a disposition to lessen the respect and influence of another to build up ourselves, we please the enemy and grieve Him whom we profess to follow. The tenderness and mercy that Jesus has revealed in His own precious life should be an example to us of the manner in which we should treat our fellow beings and especially those who are our brethren in Christ.

God is continually benefiting us, but we are too indifferent to His favors. We have been loved with an infinite tenderness, and yet many of us have little love for one another. We are too severe upon those we suppose to be in error, and are very sensitive to the least blame or question in regard to our own course.

Hints are thrown out and sharp criticisms of one another, but at the same time the very ones who throw out these hints and criticisms are blind to their own failings. Others can see their errors, but they cannot see their own mistakes. We are daily recipients of the bounties of heaven and should have loving gratitude springing up in our hearts to God, which should cause us to sympathize with our neighbors and make their interests our own. Thoughts and meditations upon the goodness of God to us would close the avenues of the soul to Satan’s suggestions.

God’s love for us is proved daily; yet we are thoughtless of His favors and indifferent to His entreaties. He seeks to impress us with His Spirit of tenderness, His love and forbearance; but we scarcely recognize the marks of His kindness and have little sense of the lesson of love He desires us to learn. Some, like Haman, forget all God’s favors, because Mordecai is before them and is not disgraced; because their hearts are filled with enmity and hatred rather than love, the spirit of our dear Redeemer, who gave His precious life for His enemies. We profess to have the same Father, to be bound for the same immortal home, to enjoy the same solemn faith, and to believe the same testing message; and yet many are at strife with one another like quarrelsome children. Some who are engaged in the same branch of the work are at variance with one another and therefore at variance with the Spirit of Christ.

The love of praise has corrupted many hearts. Those who have been connected with the Health Institute have at times manifested a spirit of finding fault with the plans laid, and Satan has given them a hold upon the minds of others there who have accepted these persons as blameless while innocent persons have been charged with wrong. It is a wicked pride that delights in the vanity of one’s own works, that boasts of one’s excellent qualities, seeking to make others seem inferior in order to exalt self, claiming more glory than the cold heart is willing to give to God. The disciples of Christ will heed the Master’s instruction. He has bidden us love one another even as He has loved us. Religion is founded upon love to God, which also leads us to love one another. It is full of gratitude, humility, long-suffering. It is self-sacrificing, forbearing, merciful, and forgiving. It sanctifies the whole life and extends its influence over others.

Those who love God cannot harbor hatred or envy. When the heavenly principle of eternal love fills the heart, it will flow out to others, not merely because favors are received of them, but because love is the principle of action and modifies the character, governs the impulses, controls the passions, subdues enmity, and elevates and ennobles the affections. This love is not contracted so as merely to include “me and mine,” but is as broad as the world and as high as heaven, and is in harmony with that of the angel workers. This love cherished in the soul sweetens the entire life and sheds a refining influence on all around. Possessing it, we cannot but be happy, let fortune smile or frown. If we love God with all the heart, we must love His children also. This love is the spirit of God. It is the heavenly adorning that gives true nobility and dignity to the soul and assimilates our lives to that of the Master. No matter how many good qualities we may have, however honorable and refined we may consider ourselves, if the soul is not baptized with the heavenly grace of love to God and one another, we are deficient in true goodness and unfit for heaven, where all is love and unity.

Some who have formerly loved God and lived in the daily enjoyment of His favor are now in continual unrest. They wander in darkness and despairing gloom because they are nourishing self. They are seeking so hard to favor themselves that all other considerations are swallowed up in this. God in His providence has willed that no one can secure happiness by living for himself alone. The joy of our Lord consisted in enduring toil and shame for others, that they might be benefited thereby. We are capable of being happy in following His example and living to bless our fellow men.

We are invited by our Lord to take His yoke and bear His burden. In doing this we may be happy. In bearing our own self-imposed yoke and carrying our own burdens, we find no rest; but in bearing the yoke of Christ there is rest to the soul. Those who want some great work to do for the Master can find it just where they are, in doing good and in being self-forgetful and self-sacrificing, remembering others and carrying sunshine wherever they go.

There is great need that the pitying tenderness of Christ should be manifested at all times and in all places—not that blind sympathy which would gloss over sin and allow God’s cause to be reproached by ill-doing, but that love which is a controlling principle of the life, which flows out naturally to others in good works, remembering that Christ has said: “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.” [Matthew 25:40.] . . .

We are slow to learn the mighty influence of trifles and their bearing upon the salvation of souls. . . . God does not mean that any of us shall constitute a privileged few, who shall be looked upon with great deference while others are neglected. Jesus was the Majesty of heaven; yet He stooped to minister to the humblest, having no respect to persons or station. . . .

Our Lord, after performing the most humiliating office for His disciples, recommended them to follow His example. This was to keep constantly before them the thought that they must not feel superior to the lowliest saint.

Those who profess our exalted faith, who are keeping God’s commandments and expecting the soon coming of our Lord, should be distinct and separate from the world around them, a peculiar people, zealous of good works. Among the peculiarities which should distinguish God’s people from the world in these last days, is their humility and meekness. “Learn of Me,” says Christ, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Here is the repose which so many crave and in vain spend time and money to obtain. Instead of being ambitious to be equal to another in honor and position, or perhaps even higher, we should seek to be the humble, faithful servants of Christ. This spirit of self-aggrandizement made contention among the apostles even while Christ was with them. They disputed who should be greatest among them. Jesus sat down and, calling the twelve, said unto them: “If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.” [Mark 9:35.]

When the mother of two sons made a request that her sons should be especially favored, one sitting on the right hand and the other on the left in His kingdom, Jesus impressed upon them that the honor and glory of His kingdom was to be the reverse of the honor and glory of this world. Whoever would be great must be a humble minister unto others, and whoever would be chief must be a servant, even as the Son of God was a minister and servant unto the children of men.

Again, our Saviour taught His disciples not to be anxious for position and name. “Be not ye called Rabbi. . . . Neither be ye called masters. . . . But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased.” [Matthew 23:7–11.] Jesus cited the lawyer to the sacred law code given from Sinai: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind, and thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.] He told him that if he did this he should enter into life.

“Thy neighbor as thyself.” The question arises: “Who is my neighbor?” His reply is the parable of the good Samaritan, which teaches us that any human being who needs our sympathy and our kind offices is our neighbor. The suffering and destitute of all classes are our neighbors, and when their wants are brought to our knowledge, it is our duty to relieve them as far as possible. A principle is brought out in this parable that it would be well for the followers of Christ to adopt. First meet the temporal necessities of the needy and relieve their physical wants and sufferings, and you will then find an open avenue to the heart, where you may plant the good seeds of virtue and religion.

In order to be happy, we must strive to attain to that character which Christ exhibited. One marked peculiarity of Christ was His self-denial and benevolence. He came not to seek His own. He went about doing good, and this was His meat and drink. We may, by following the example of the Saviour, be in holy communion with Him, and by daily seeking to imitate His character and follow His example, we shall be a blessing to the world and shall secure for ourselves contentment here and an eternal reward hereafter.

Testimonies, vol. 4, 221–227.

Children’s Story – Crutches on the Altar

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One day a minister received a request from a missionary society to preach a missionary sermon to be followed by a collection for a certain foreign field. The minister put his whole soul into the effort, encouraging the people to give cheerfully for the Lord’s work.

After the sermon, the collection basket was passed as usual, but the minister watched the result with depressed feelings as only small amounts were dropped in. Evidently, his words had not reached the hearts of his listeners. He noticed how those who were well able to give kept looking at the time, eager to be out and about other things.

On the last bench, in the meantime, a battle was waging in the heart of a poorly clad girl. Through an accident, Margaret had been crippled. She could not take a step without assistance. One day a kind lady procured a pair of crutches for her, and since then her life had been much happier. This same week she had ventured for the first time to church. What a great blessing it was to be able to listen to the gospel once more.

As the usher came near with the basket, Margaret said to herself, with a sad heart, “I have nothing to give—‘not a cent’—and there in the foreign land the missionaries are expecting our gifts; they need so much to carry on their work. Oh, what can I do?” These thoughts went through her mind and made her shudder.

“My new crutches could be sold for a sum of money, but I cannot spare them; I must have them; they are my very life.”

“Yes, your life,” said a voice within; “but did not Christ give His life for you? If you give what is your life, some poor souls in Africa will hear that He is their Saviour too. Oh, if you only would!”

Finally a glow came over her face. She pressed a kiss on the crutches and waited, her heart pounding.

The collection basket came to where Margaret sat. The usher knew her well. He gave a friendly nod and was about to pass on when, to his astonishment, she made an effort to lay the crutches on the basket.

The man grasped the situation, took the crutches out of her hand, put them on the basket, and carried them slowly through the aisle, laying them without a word on the altar.

Everyone watched him in breathless suspense. They all knew the young girl, and many eyes filled with tears. The minister, deeply affected, laid his hand on the crutches and repeated solemnly the words of Jesus: “She hath done what she could.” [Mark 14:8.]

What a stir this incident made in the meeting! Suddenly, perspiration came upon the banker’s brow, and he wiped his face with his handkerchief and pulled out his wallet. The rich lady fumbled about for her purse. A local merchant whispered something in the ear of the usher, who passed the collection basket once more from bench to bench. This time money came pouring forth like raindrops.

Afterwards, the people solemnly left the church. One lady stepped up to Margaret and gave back her new crutches. She had redeemed them for the benefit of the missionaries for the sum of one hundred dollars. The happy girl returned home, little realizing how much she had done that day for her Master.

Nature Nugget – King of Grasses

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Bamboos are woody, perennial evergreen plants that are members of the true grass family. There are about 1,200 species worldwide occurring in diverse climates from cold, 12,000-foot mountains to low, hot, tropical regions. They occur naturally on all continents except for Europe.

Bamboo stems, called culms, can range in height from a few centimeters to 40 meters (131 feet), with stem diameters ranging from 1 millimeter to 30 centimeters (about 12 inches). The stems are jointed with regular nodes, with the sections of stems between the nodes being hollow. A single stem of bamboo grows to full height from a rhizome (root) in one growing season and can persist for several years. Bamboos are the fastest growing woody plants, with some tropical species capable of growing from 1 to over 3 feet per day, but 1 to 2 inches per day is more typical for most garden variety species. When it comes to flowering, bamboos are gregarious, meaning that all of the same species within a region bloom at the same time. Some species flower only every 28 to 120 years, with some species dying after going to seed.

Numerous species of wildlife are dependent on bamboo and bamboo forests for food and shelter. Rare animals such as the giant pandas of China, mountain gorillas of Africa, golden lemurs of Madagascar, and the mountain tapirs of South America are dependent upon or closely connected with bamboo. Several birds are known to drill holes and nest in the hollow stems. The world’s second smallest bat species roosts in holes in bamboo stems. Many little known invertebrates are specially adapted to the environment within the hollow bamboo stems. Cavities that catch and hold water become the home and breeding place for frogs and numerous aquatic insects.

Millions of people use and depend on bamboo also, especially in third world countries. Because of its diversity of uses, it is known as the “friend of the people” in China and as the “wood of the poor” in India. Traditional uses by man include housing, furniture, food, cooking, paper, musical instruments, and boats. A single bamboo clump can produce up to 9 miles of usable poles in its lifetime. There are currently 1,500 documented uses of bamboo which support a 2 billion dollar bamboo industry.

Bamboo is one of the many gifts that God has given us and the animals to use for food and shelter. “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. Look at the wonderful and beautiful things of nature. Think of their marvelous adaptation to the needs and happiness, not only of man, but of all living creatures. The sunshine and the rain, that gladden and refresh the earth, the hills and seas and plains, all speak to us of the Creator’s love. It is God who brings the bud to bloom, the flower to fruit. It is He who supplies the daily needs of all His creatures as brought forth in the beautiful words of the Psalmist: ‘The eyes of all wait upon Thee, And thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, And satisfiest the desire of every living thing.’ [Psalm 145:15.]” Bible Training School, November 1, 1908.

David Arbour writes from his home in De Queen, Arkansas. He may be contacted by e-mail at: landmarks@stepstolife.org.