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Children’s Story – Esther’s Victory

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Dear!” and Esther sighed wearily as she bent over the tiresome figures on her slate. The long afternoon sun shot slanting in at the window of the little red school-house, where thirty restless children were thumbing the leaves of their well-worn books. The last class in spelling was on the floor, and Esther had not finished her problem. It wasn’t such a very hard example, but Esther was a little girl, and didn’t like arithmetic. Yet she kept at it; for there was to be a prize given at the end of the term to the one who had the most perfect lessons. The prize was a copy of Robinson Crusoe, handsomely bound in blue and gold, and full of pictures. Books were scarce in Esther’s home, and she wanted this one so much.

But now the spelling class was dismissed, and all the scholars were putting away their books for the night. Esther looked ruefully at the long columns of figures on her slate and the answer that, try as hard as she pleased, she couldn’t prove to be right, and something very much like tears shone in a pair of great hazel eyes as she straightened up her desk.

After the supper dishes were washed that evening, Esther sat down again to the puzzling example. The arithmetic class came the first thing in the morning, and she must get her answer ready tonight. But it was as bad as ever, and she couldn’t get it right. By and by mamma called her to go to bed, and the problem had to rest.

There was no time in the morning, for in this busy household, everyone had their appointed tasks, which they were expected to do. So Esther took her broom and went to sweep and straighten up brother Jack’s room. When she was whisking her duster around the books on the corner shelf, a little one on the end fell off to the floor.

Esther stooped to pick it up, and paused. What chance had placed that book in her way? She did not know Jack had such a book. It was arithmetic just like hers, and beside each problem was plainly written in black ink the correct answer.

Esther turned over the leaves till she came to the place where her lesson was. Her answer was nearly the same; there was only one figure in the tens that was wrong. What hurt would it do if she should copy the answer and hand it in for hers? She was sure she had worked long enough on it to have it right, and nobody would know. It was but the work of an instant, and the book was put back in its place.

With a smiling face, Esther went to school, and when the arithmetic class recited, was marked perfect in her lesson; but her conscience was not quite at ease. Everything said that day seemed to have something in it about honesty. The reading lesson was about an honest boy that would not tell a lie to save himself from punishment; and Miss Lewis said she hoped they would all strive to be strictly honest in their lessons, for that would be better than any prize they might win.

Esther knew she had not done right and that she ought to tell Miss Lewis about it; but she put it off that day and on the morrow, the warning voice of conscience grew more faint, till it ceased to trouble Esther. “It will not matter much,” she said, “if I don’t do it again.”

At length the last day came. There was to be speaking and singing at the school-house, and the children’s parents and friends were to be present, and the prizes presented. The little room had been gaily decked for the occasion with wreaths and flowers, and through the open door and windows came sweet scents of lilacs and clover and blossoming orchard trees.

When the exercises were over, Miss Lewis rose to give the prizes. “There are two scholars,” she said, “who stand so nearly equal in their studies that it has been a difficult matter to decide which one to award with the prize. They are Jennie Feverel and Esther Hallern. However, as Esther has had one more perfect mark than Jennie, she may come forward and receive the prize.”

With beating heart and triumphant face, Esther felt the coveted book in her hands, and heard Miss Lewis’s kind words as she handed it to her. But as she turned to go to her seat, she saw over in the corner, her dear friend Jennie, sobbing as if her heart would break over the disappointment.

With a sudden twinge of conscience, Esther remembered how unfairly the prize had been won and paused half way down the isle.

“What is the matter, Esther,” said Miss Lewis kindly, as she saw her stand there, her face flushing and paling by turns, as every moment her action looked meaner.

“O Miss Lewis,” said Esther, her voice growing so husky she could hardly speak above a whisper, and her eyes filling with tears of shame, “The prize is no more mine than Jennie’s. I copied one lesson out of Jack’s arithmetic; and the book belongs to her because she didn’t cheat,” and with a new sense of honor, Esther laid the beautiful book on Jennie’s desk.

Miss Lewis said a few words in reply, though what they were Esther could not have told, for her shame and disappointment crowded out everything else. Then school was dismissed.

Esther took her books and hurried home alone, not waiting even for her mother to come with her, and flung herself down in the grass under a pear tree, where the soft wind sent down showers of petals over a very miserable little girl. Here her mamma found her. Then there followed a quiet talk that Esther will never forget. Jennie kindly came over most every afternoon with her book, and by the last of vacation they had finished the story together.

When Esther gathered up her books, on the morning school began again, she was very much delighted to find a new history book and a slate laid beside them—presents from her mamma for her generosity and truthfulness about the prize.

  1. E. L.

The Youth Instructor, April 28, 1886

Helplessness, Hopelessness … and Hope

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“Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots?

Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil.” Jeremiah 13:23 NJKV

“We have no hope but in Jesus. He alone can reach us with His hand to lift us up out of the depths of discouragement and hopelessness and place our feet upon the Rock. Although the human soul may cling to Jesus with all the desperate sense of his great need, Jesus will cling to the souls bought by His own blood with a firmer grasp than the sinner clings to Him.

“I [Ellen White] read this over and over again, for it is so full of assurance: ‘Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need’ (Hebrews 4:14–16). … What a Saviour we have–a risen Saviour, One who can save all who come unto Him!” That I May Know Him, 80.

“Through the goodness and mercy of Christ the sinner is to be restored to the divine favor. God in Christ is daily beseeching men to be reconciled to God. With outstretched arms He is ready to receive and welcome not only the sinner but the prodigal. His dying love, manifested on Calvary, is the sinner’s assurance of acceptance, peace, and love. Teach these things in the simplest form, that the sin-darkened soul may see the light shining from the cross of Calvary.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 178, 179.

What beautiful thoughts and truths are revealed in these words of inspiration! Dear friend, are you ever in need? Does your heart, does your soul ever cry out in despair? Do you feel and know your desperate condition as a sinner? Truly there are temporal or earthly needs, but our spiritual need is even greater, even deeper, and even more hopeless when left on our own. Listen to the way God describes the reality of our condition as revealed to Isaiah, the prophet: “But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; We all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” Isaiah 64:6. Does this leave room for the thought that there is any goodness in us? If our righteousness is as a filthy rag, what does that say for the rest of us? We need Jesus. We are helpless in and of ourselves. “We have no hope but in Jesus.”

I want to establish this fact beyond the shadow of a doubt not only theoretically, but as a deep, heart wrenching reality. Until we know the depth of our need, we will never receive the help we need. Too often we think ourselves relatively good. I’m OK, you’re OK kind of mentality. But that is not reality in God’s eyes. We are absolutely helpless to be good. As a leopard cannot change its spots, so we cannot change the spots of sin in our lives. Our righteousness is as filthy rags. “It is impossible for us, of ourselves, to escape from the pit of sin in which we are sunken. Our hearts are evil, and we cannot change them. ‘Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one.’ ‘The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be’ (Job 14:4; Romans 8:7).” Steps to Christ, 18.

We know from Romans 6:23 that the wages of sin is death. Therefore, we are doomed if left to ourselves and we must recognize our need before we can get the help we so desperately need. Jesus repeatedly, during His ministry on earth, illustrated the basic fact that in order to get help you must feel a need.

“And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.” ’ ” Revelation 3:14–19.

Through John, Jesus sends a message to His church in Laodicea, the last of the churches mentioned in Revelation 2, revealing to them their true state, that of believing they are rich and increased with goods, when in reality they are described by God as being “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.” He warns them that if they continue in this state He will vomit them out of His mouth. There is no hope for this people if they do not see their true condition. They will be vomited out of the mouth of God. The Laodiceans must feel their need before they can receive help.

In the gospel of Luke, Jesus tells a parable to a group of people who had a pretty good opinion of themselves. “He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: ‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.” And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.’ ” Luke 18:9–14.

Only one of the men left the temple justified in the sight of God. It was not the one who felt no need. Rather it was the man who knew his wretched condition before God. Not one of us is “good” enough to stand before a righteous and holy God in our own goodness. The Bible describes all our righteousness as being filthy rags.

Jesus Himself also said in Matthew 5:6, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” Again we see that it is those that feel their need that will be filled. Countless Bible stories illustrate that it is only the one who knows his need that will receive help.

We have seen clearly through Inspiration that we have no hope in and of ourselves. We are totally helpless to change our wicked and evil natures; we must have Divine help. So the question might be asked, as it is stated in Steps to Christ, 23, “How shall a man be just with God? How shall the sinner be made righteous?”

What is the very first thing that needs to happen in this process of the sinner being made righteous? Continuing in Steps to Christ, 23: “How shall a man be just with God? How shall the sinner be made righteous? It is only through Christ that we can be brought into harmony with God, with holiness; but how are we to come to Christ? Many are asking the same question as did the multitude on the Day of Pentecost, when, convicted of sin, they cried out, ‘What shall we do?’ The first word of Peter’s answer was, ‘Repent’ (Acts 2:37, 38). At another time, shortly after, he said, ‘Repent … and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out’ (Acts 3:19).”

The first step is to repent, but what does it mean to repent? The Encarta Dictionary defines “repent” like this: “To recognize the wrong in something you have done and be sorry about it.” So in order to repent you need a conviction that you have done something wrong, and that you are sorry for.

We are going to learn just how depraved we are in our dreadful condition and ruin, and how good and merciful and loving our God really is. John 16:8 says that we have become so lost that we are not able to recognize our evilness and cannot even gain a conviction of sin on our own. “And when He [the Holy Spirit] has come, He will convict the world of sin.” If we already have a conviction, why would we be told that when the Holy Spirit comes He would convict the world? It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that a conviction of sin is experienced.

Once convicted of sin we are sorry about it and have true repentance. “Repentance includes sorrow for sin and a turning away from it. We shall not renounce sin unless we see its sinfulness; until we turn away from it in heart, there will be no real change in the life.

“There are many who fail to understand the true nature of repentance. Multitudes sorrow that they have sinned and even make an outward reformation because they fear that their wrongdoing will bring suffering upon themselves. But this is not repentance in the Bible sense.” Steps to Christ, 23.

To repent because of the impending consequences is not true repentance or true reform. True repentance means that “the sinner has a sense of the righteousness of Jehovah and feels the terror of appearing, in his own guilt and uncleanness, before the Searcher of hearts. He sees the love of God, the beauty of holiness, the joy of purity; he longs to be cleansed and to be restored to communion with Heaven.” Ibid., 24.

We see an example of true repentance in David after his sin with Bathsheba and his murder of Uriah. “His repentance was sincere and deep. There was no effort to palliate [lesson the intensity or severity; attempt to make an offense seem less serious by giving excuses] his guilt; no desire to escape the judgment threatened, inspired his prayer. David saw the enormity of his transgression; he saw the defilement of his soul; he loathed his sin. It was not for pardon only that he prayed, but for purity of heart. He longed for the joy of holiness—to be restored to harmony and communion with God.” Ibid., 24, 25.

Listen to David’s plea to God. “Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy loving-kindness: according unto the multitude of Thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. … For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. … Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. … Create in me a clean heart, O God; And renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence; And take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation; and uphold me with Thy free spirit. … Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, Thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of Thy righteousness (Psalm 51:1–14 KJV).” Ibid., 25.

Here we see true, deep, sincere repentance; not a repentance of making excuses, or of blaming someone else, or a desire to escape the punishment for his sin. But rather we see a sincere, heart-cry for restoration with His God. This is the meaning of true repentance.

Again though, as we study, we find how truly helpless we are of ourselves. “A repentance such as this, is beyond the reach of our own power to accomplish; it is obtained only from Christ, Who ascended up on high and has given gifts unto men.” Ibid., 25.

Again we read that this repentance can come only from Christ. “It is the virtue that goes forth from Christ, that leads to genuine repentance. Peter made the matter clear in his statement to the Israelites when he said, ‘Him hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins’ (Acts 5:31).” Ibid., 26. [Emphasis added.]

Jesus Himself also said, “ ‘I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me’ (John 12:32). Christ must be revealed to the sinner as the Saviour dying for the sins of the world; and as we behold the Lamb of God upon the cross of Calvary, the mystery of redemption begins to unfold to our minds and the goodness of God leads us to repentance. … And as Christ draws them to look upon His cross, to behold Him whom their sins have pierced, the commandment comes home to the conscience. The wickedness of their life, the deep-seated sin of the soul, is revealed to them. They begin to comprehend something of the righteousness of Christ, and exclaim, ‘What is sin, that it should require such a sacrifice for the redemption of its victim? Was all this love, all this suffering, all this humiliation, demanded, that we might not perish, but have everlasting life?’ ” Ibid., 26, 27. [Emphasis added.]

The answer is quite simply and profoundly, yes. What love, what devotion, what longing for righteousness this should engender in our hearts for the sacrifice that made possible our rescue from the doom of death required by our sin.

“One ray of the glory of God, one gleam of the purity of Christ, penetrating the soul, makes every spot of defilement painfully distinct, and lays bare the deformity and defects of the human character. It makes apparent the unhallowed desires, the infidelity of the heart, the impurity of the lips. The sinner’s acts of disloyalty in making void the law of God, are exposed to his sight, and his spirit is stricken and afflicted under the searching influence of the Spirit of God. He loathes himself as he views the pure, spotless character of Christ.” Ibid., 29.

So, the first step in this process of coming to Christ is conviction and repentance. If our conviction and repentance are sincere, what will follow is confession. Once we are convicted of wrongdoing and experience sorrow, there is an action that we need to take in order to be forgiven. 1 John 1:9 states this very clearly. It says: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The most important word in this text is just a little two letter word “if.” All the rest of the text hinges on that one word. And that word implies that we have a choice. We can choose to confess—or not. In order to gain forgiveness and cleansing we must confess. We will not be forgiven or cleansed unless we do confess. It seems that confession then is a very important step. So let’s see what God says about confession. “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13 KJV.

Steps to Christ 37, 38 gives us a very beautiful explanation of confession. “The conditions of obtaining mercy of God are simple and just and reasonable. The Lord does not require us to do some grievous thing in order that we may have the forgiveness of sin. We need not make long and wearisome pilgrimages, or perform painful penances, to commend our souls to the God of heaven or to expiate our transgression; but he that confesseth and forsaketh his sin shall have mercy.

“The apostle says, ‘Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed’ (James 5:16). Confess your sins to God, Who only can forgive them, and your faults to one another. If you have given offense to your friend or neighbor, you are to acknowledge your wrong, and it is his duty freely to forgive you. Then you are to seek the forgiveness of God, because the brother you have wounded is the property of God, and in injuring him you sinned against his Creator and Redeemer. The case is brought before the only true Mediator, our great High Priest, Who ‘was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin,’ and Who is ‘touched with the feeling of our infirmities,’ and is able to cleanse from every stain of iniquity (Hebrews 4:15).

“Those who have not humbled their souls before God in acknowledging their guilt, have not yet fulfilled the first condition of acceptance. If we have not experienced that repentance which is not to be repented of, and have not with true humiliation of soul and brokenness of spirit confessed our sins, abhorring our iniquity, we have never truly sought for the forgiveness of sin; and if we have never sought, we have never found the peace of God. The only reason why we do not have remission of sins that are past is that we are not willing to humble our hearts and comply with the conditions of the word of truth. Explicit instruction is given concerning this matter. [Now what does this confession of sin involve?] Confession of sin, whether public or private, should be heartfelt [you must truly mean it] and freely expressed [it can’t be dragged out of you, forced, or coerced]. It is not to be urged from the sinner. It is not to be made in a flippant and careless way, or forced from those who have no realizing sense of the abhorrent character of sin. The confession that is the outpouring of the inmost soul finds its way to the God of infinite pity. The psalmist says, ‘The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit’ (Psalm 34:18).”

In order for our confession to be heard by God it must be 1) heartfelt, 2) freely expressed, 3) not made in a flippant or careless way, 4) not forced, 5) with a realization of the abhorrent character of sin, 6) be the outpouring of the inmost soul. This is true repentance as we saw with David.

“True confession is always of a specific character, and acknowledges particular sins. They may be of such a nature as to be brought before God only; they may be wrongs that should be confessed to individuals who have suffered injury through them; or they may be of a public character, and should then be as publicly confessed. But all confession should be definite and to the point, acknowledging the very sins of which you are guilty.” Ibid., 38. In addition here we find that true confession, 1) is of a specific character, 2) acknowledges particular sins, 3) may need to be kept only between you and God, 4) if the sin wronged or caused suffering to another, it should be confessed to that individual, 5) if the sin was public, it should be publicly confessed, 6) is definite, 7) to the point.

“Confession will not be acceptable to God without sincere repentance and reformation. There must be decided changes in the life; everything offensive to God must be put away. This will be the result of genuine sorrow for sin. The work that we have to do on our part is plainly set before us: ‘Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before Mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow’ (Isaiah 1:16, 17). ‘If the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die’ (Ezekiel 33:15). Paul says, speaking of the work of repentance: ‘Ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter’ (II Corinthians 7:11).

“When sin has deadened the moral perceptions, the wrongdoer does not discern the defects of his character nor realize the enormity of the evil he has committed; and unless he yields to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit he remains in partial blindness to his sin. His confessions are not sincere and in earnest. To every acknowledgment of his guilt he adds an apology in excuse of his course, declaring that if it had not been for certain circumstances he would not have done this or that for which he is reproved. …

“The examples in God’s word of genuine repentance and humiliation reveal a spirit of confession in which there is no excuse for sin or attempt at self-justification. Paul did not seek to shield himself; he paints his sin in its darkest hue, not attempting to lessen his guilt. He says, ‘Many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities’ (Acts 26:10, 11). He does not hesitate to declare that ‘Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief’ (I Timothy 1:15).

“The humble and broken heart, subdued by genuine repentance, will appreciate something of the love of God and the cost of Calvary; and as a son confesses to a loving father, so will the truly penitent bring all his sins before God. And it is written, ‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness’ (I John 1:9).” Ibid., 39–41.

Why are these things, conviction, repentance and confession so very important, and what do they have to do with the kingdom of glory? The kingdom of glory is the kingdom established by God, governed by His perfect law (Psalm 19:7). In this kingdom there is no sin. Sin cannot exist in God’s presence. Since sin has entered this world, in His mercy and love God provided a means for our restoration. It is called the plan of salvation.

The covenant that God made with His son Jesus “before the foundations of the earth” was simply “an arrangement for bringing men again into harmony with the divine will, placing them where they could obey God’s law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 371. These steps, conviction, repentance and confession are the beginnings of our part in this great plan for our restoration. “It is man’s part to respond to His great love, by appropriating the great salvation the blessing of the Lord has made it possible for man to obtain.” Lift Him Up, 232.

These truths should awaken in us the most ardent, the most tender, the most devoted love for the One Who loved us so much that “He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

NKJV unless otherwise noted.

Brenda Douay is a staff member at Steps to Life. She may be contacted by email at: brendadouay@stepstolife.org.

Lessons from the Heart

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“I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind,

Even to give every man according to his ways,

According to the fruit of his doings.”

Jeremiah 17:10

Inspired writings have much to say about the heart of man. A study of the heart in both the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy will yield a deeper understanding of the natural heart, the behaviors that the natural heart provokes, and how to overcome the temptations to which the natural heart is inclined to yield. The purpose of this article is to give a brief overview of the vast amount of information that Inspired writings provide concerning the natural heart to stimulate in seekers of truth a desire to study for themselves the workings of the heart and to know how God changes the natural cold stony heart into a heart of flesh that throbs with the love of Christ.

Two of the most common Scriptures that quickly come to mind when considering what the Bible says about the heart are Genesis 6:5, 6 and Jeremiah 17:9.

“Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart.” Genesis 6:5, 6. (Emphasis added.)

Ponder how these two verses reveal the sharp contrast between the natural heart of man and the wise and omniscient heart of our Lord.

The second Scripture that commonly comes to mind is Jeremiah 17:9.

“The heart is deceitful above all things,

And desperately wicked;

Who can know it?”

Fortunately, Scripture not only shows us the evil and deceitfulness of the natural heart, but it also gives us precious texts that promise us a way out of this condition. One of the most powerful is in Ezekiel 36:26, 27. “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.”

Who, claiming this promise, can be disheartened?

Inspiration gives us a fairly succinct assessment of the natural heart in The Acts of the Apostles, page 273: “The refining influence of the grace of God changes the natural disposition of man. Heaven would not be desirable to the carnal-minded; their natural, unsanctified hearts would feel no attraction toward that pure and holy place, and if it were possible for them to enter, they would find there nothing congenial. The propensities that control the natural heart must be subdued by the grace of Christ before fallen man is fitted to enter heaven and enjoy the society of the pure, holy angels. When man dies to sin and is quickened to new life in Christ, divine love fills his heart; his understanding is sanctified; he drinks from an inexhaustible fountain of joy and knowledge, and the light of an eternal day shines upon his path, for with him continually is the Light of life.”

Not only do Inspired writings give us hope for a new heart, they also provide examples of—and therefore warnings against—the actions of a deceitful heart.

In the book of Esther, we are given an example of the deceitfulness of the natural heart. It is a familiar story and one that the Jews even to this day take particular delight in reviewing each year during Purim. The climax of the story is in chapter 6.

“That night the king could not sleep. So one was commanded to bring the book of the records of the chronicles; and they were read before the king. And it was found written that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs, the doorkeepers who had sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus.

“Then the king said, ‘What honor or dignity has been bestowed on Mordecai for this?’

“And the king’s servants who attended him said, ‘Nothing has been done for him.’

“So the king said, ‘Who is in the court?’

“Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the king’s palace to suggest that the king hang Mordecai on the gallows that he had prepared for him. The king’s servants said to him, ‘Haman is there, standing in the court.’

“And the king said, ‘Let him come in.’

“So Haman came in, and the king asked him, ‘What shall be done for the man whom the king delights to honor?’ Now Haman thought in his heart, ‘Whom would the king delight to honor more than me?’

“And Haman answered the king, ‘For the man whom the king delights to honor, let a royal robe be brought which the king has worn, and a horse on which the king has ridden, which has a royal crest placed on its head. Then let this robe and horse be delivered to the hand of one of the king’s most noble princes, that he may array the man whom the king delights to honor. Then parade him on horseback through the city square, and proclaim before him: “Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor!” ’

“Then the king said to Haman, ‘Hurry, take the robe and the horse, as you have suggested, and do so for Mordecai the Jew who sits within the king’s gate! Leave nothing undone of all that you have spoken’ (Esther 6:1–10).”

Haman had convinced himself that he was worthy of royal honor, only to discover that he had been self-deceived.

Christ gave another example of the potential actions of a deceitful heart when He was invited to a meal at a Pharisee’s home one Sabbath and He saw how, as the guests arrived, each sought the best place to sit. He gave divine instruction to those who were invited. The story is in Luke 14:8–11.

“When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Christ was reminding the Pharisees of the words that the Holy Spirit had moved upon Solomon to write in Proverbs 25:6, 7.

“Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king,

And do not stand in the place of the great;

For it is better that he say to you,

‘Come up here,’

Than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince,

Whom your eyes have seen.”

It is likely that Solomon had seen just this kind of behavior in his own court when he had invited guests to dine with him.

In addition to the example we read in Esther about Haman, there are other examples in Scripture of people “thinking” in their hearts. In common language today, we would say, “saying to himself” or “thinking to himself.”

One example is given in Genesis 24:45, when Abraham’s oldest servant went to Laban to find a wife for Isaac.

“But before I had finished speaking in my heart, there was Rebekah, coming out with her pitcher on her shoulder; and she went down to the well and drew water. And I said to her, ‘Please let me drink.’ ”

But perhaps the most familiar example of one thinking to himself is in Nehemiah 2:1-5, when Nehemiah stood despondently before King Artaxerxes.

“And it came to pass in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, that I took the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had never been sad in his presence before. Therefore the king said to me, ‘Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.’

“So I became dreadfully afraid, and said to the king, ‘May the king live forever! Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?’

“Then the king said to me, ‘What do you request?’ So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said to the king, ‘If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.’ ” (Emphasis added.)

Sister White refers to praying under these kinds of circumstances as darting a prayer to heaven. Probably each of us has more than one memory of having darted a prayer to heaven in times of trial. It is a wonderful comfort to know that we have an all-knowing, omnipresent God who hears and answers sincere prayers offered from a sincere heart.

Scripture also alludes to the heart as the condition of the human mind. Look for an example in Exodus 23:9: “Also you shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the heart of a stranger, because you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”

The principle that God is impressing upon Moses here is that we should be compassionate toward and understanding of others. Remember the trials and tribulations you have experienced and have compassion on others when they are in similar situations.

Another bit of light about the condition of a man’s heart is provided in 1 Samuel when the Lord had instructed Samuel to examine Jesse’s offspring to select a king to replace Saul, after Saul had proven himself unworthy of the office. When Samuel saw Eliab, whom he thought surely to be the Lord’s anointed, the Lord responded, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” I Samuel 16:7.

What a lesson this incident provides for us. How often do we judge from outward appearance, only to realize when the fruit reveals the true condition of the heart that our initial assessment was incorrect.

The obvious question that arises from our study of the actions of the natural heart is, How can we overcome the natural tendencies and have that heart promised us in Ezekiel 36? Consider the request of Solomon:

“At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, ‘Ask! What shall I give you?’

“And Solomon said: ‘You have shown great mercy to Your servant David my father, because he walked before You in truth, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with You; You have continued this great kindness for him, and You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. Now, O Lord my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a great people, too numerous to be numbered or counted. Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?’ ” I Kings 3:5–9.

James may have been reflecting on this story when he wrote in his epistle, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, Who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5.

Perhaps the most wonderful encouragement we are given, though, came from the lips of Christ Himself, on the night of His betrayal: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27.

Can we not conclude from this brief overview that through prayer, such as Nehemiah’s or Solomon’s, and by exercising faith, as Christ commanded to His disciples, that we can have that heart of flesh and persevere against the fiery darts of the enemy of souls under all circumstances? Such is my prayer daily. May it be yours as well.

NJKV unless otherwise noted.

John Pearson is the office manager and a board member of Steps to Life. After retiring as chief financial officer for the Grand Canyon Association, Grand Canyon, Arizona, he moved to Wichita, Kansas, to join the Steps to Life team. He may be contacted by email at: johnpearson@stepstolife.org.

Editorial – Why do Seventh-day Adventists Exist?

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Daniel 2 ends with all governments and kingdoms of this world destroyed and the setting up of the kingdom of God that will last forever and never be destroyed (Daniel 2:44, 45). Daniel 7 ends with the dominion of the little horn being destroyed and the kingdom and dominion being given to the people, the saints of the Most High, and all dominions serving and obeying the Most High forever (Daniel 7:27). Revelation 1:7 predicts, “Behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him, and they also which pierced Him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him. Even so, Amen.”

This coming of the Lord back to our world to save His children and to judge the world in righteousness is mentioned again in Revelation 6:15–17, in Revelation 7:14–17, and again under the seventh trumpet in Revelation 11:15–19, where it is proclaimed that the kingdom of this world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.

It is mentioned again immediately after the three angels’ messages in Revelation 14:14–20. This is also the main subject of Revelation 19. The result of this appearing is described in the latter part of Revelation 19 and in Revelation 20–22.

Clearly we see that the return of Christ is one of the major themes of Bible prophecy. We could go to prophecies in both the Old and New Testaments that speak about it because, “The doctrine of the second advent is the very keynote of the Sacred Scriptures.” The Great Controversy, 299.

But the question that should concern us all is, Will I be ready for His appearing? The Old Testament prophet says, “… the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?” Joel 2:11, last part.

To prepare the world for this most awesome event when our present world shall pass away, the Lord has given us several gifts.

First of all He has given us the Bible, which prophesies this coming event and tells us how to prepare for it.

Second, He has given us special specific messages that will prepare us for that event—the three angels’ messages in Revelation 14:6–12, especially for those living in the time of the end—the time of judgment when punishment will be metered out. This message reveals that the people who are ready for the Lord’s appearing will be commandment keepers with the same faith, doctrines and teachings that Jesus had and taught.

And third, the Lord promised that since the last generation would be living in the most deceptive time of world history (Matthew 24:24), He would send to His people an Elijah prophet—the gift of prophecy to guide them safely home (see Malachi 4:5, 6).

The Cleansing of the Temple

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The second chapter of John tells us what happened when Jesus cleansed the temple the first time. Remember, Jesus cleansed the temple once at the beginning and again at the close of His ministry.

“As He beholds the scene, indignation, authority, and power are expressed in His countenance. The attention of the people is attracted to Him. The eyes of those engaged in their unholy traffic are riveted upon his face. They cannot withdraw their gaze. They feel that this man reads their inmost thoughts, and discovers their hidden motives. Some attempt to conceal their faces, as if their evil deeds were written upon their countenances, to be scanned by those searching eyes.” The Desire of Ages, 157, 158

Does this remind you of the scene that will take place when Jesus comes the second time? Remember that the wicked are going to be crying for the rocks and the mountains to fall on them. This is what wickedness does in the presence of purity and holiness.

“The confusion is hushed. The sound of traffic and bargaining has ceased. The silence becomes painful. A sense of awe overpowers the assembly. It is as if they were arraigned before the tribunal of God to answer for their deeds. Looking upon Christ, they behold divinity flash through the garb of humanity. The Majesty of heaven stands as the Judge will stand at the last day,—not now encircled with the glory that will then attend Him, but with the same power to read the soul. His eye sweeps over the multitude, taking in every individual. His form seems to rise above them in commanding dignity, and a divine light illuminates His countenance. He speaks, and His clear, ringing voice—the same that upon Mount Sinai proclaimed the law that priests and rulers are transgressing—is heard echoing through the arches of the temple: ‘Take these things hence; make not My Father’s house an house of merchandise.’” Ibid., 158

How do you think He said those words? Do you believe that when Jesus said, “take these things hence,” that He spoke in soft and gentle tones? I am not trying to be a comedian, but how ridiculous are some of the things that we hear people saying today. I am amazed that there are people who think that Christ was some kind of little wallflower, lacking character and authority. Because of the Ecumenical Movement, our people have become such passivists. It has become very unpopular to say anything about anybody. If you are one of those who go along with that kind of thinking, you might as well forget about the three angels’ messages. The Savior that I serve, who is our perfect example, when the occasion called for it, raised His voice and said, “Take these things hence! Make not my Father’s house a house of merchandise.”

“Slowly descending the steps, and raising the scourge of cords gathered up on entering the enclosure, He bids the bargaining company depart from the precincts of the temple. With a zeal and severity he has never before manifested, He overthrows the tables of the money changers. The coins fall, ringing sharply upon the marble pavement. None presume to question His authority. None dare stop to gather up their ill-gotten gain….Officers of the temple, speculating priests, brokers and cattle traders, with their sheep and oxen, rush from the place, with the one thought of escaping from the condemnation of His presence.

“A panic sweeps over the multitude, who feel the overshadowing of His divinity. Cries of terror escape from hundreds of blanched lips. Even the disciples tremble. They are awestruck by the words and manner of Jesus, so unlike His usual demeanor. They remember that it is written of Him, ‘The zeal of Thine house hath eaten Me up.’ Psalm 69:9. Soon the tumultuous throng with their merchandise are far removed from the temple of the Lord. The courts are free from unholy traffic, and deep silence and solemnity settles upon the scene of confusion. The presence of the Lord, that of old sanctified the mount, has now made sacred the temple reared in His honor.” Ibid., 158-161

If someone asked you if Jesus was ever severe, what would your first thought be? We do not know Jesus if we think that we have to sit on our hands and say, “Oh, I know this is terrible and something is going on in church, but I cannot say anything because I want to be Christlike.” I am sorry, but sitting there silently is not being Christlike. That is a twisted concept of Christ. A lot of people think that the tables were overthrown because as everybody was rushing out, they knocked the tables over. No, Christ was the one who overthrew the tables. This is a thought that very few people have of Christ. They cannot imagine Him doing such a thing.

Christ was not severe all of the time; but when the occasion called for it, he could be. And, yes, He kicked over those tables, the coins went flying everywhere and he said, “Take these things hence! You are not going to do this to My Father’s house.”

Was the temple sacred before Christ cleansed it? No. Before God’s presence can be in a place, it must be cleansed. We had better be very careful how we have criticized men whom God has chosen to do His work in these last days. We need to be very careful about labeling someone as being too severe or too harsh. To those who are so free to criticize and pick apart the message or the messenger, I would say, be very careful. Make sure you know what it means to be Christlike before you start saying that someone needs to be more Christlike.

“In the cleansing of the temple, Jesus was announcing His mission as the Messiah, and entering upon His work. That temple, erected for the abode of the divine presence, was designed to be an object lesson for Israel and for the world. From eternal ages it was God’s purpose that every created being, form the bright and holy seraph to man, should be a temple for the indwelling of the Creator. Because of sin, humanity ceased to be a temple for God. Darkened and defiled by evil, the heart of man no longer revealed the glory of the divine One. But by the incarnation of the Son of God, the purpose of Heaven is fulfilled. God dwells in humanity, and through saving grace the heart of man becomes again His temple.” Ibid., 161

Where does God dwell? In humanity. Therefore, if God is going to work in these last days, how is He going to work? Through humanity.

Do you see any parallels with what is taking place today? The people of Christ’s day had a misconception of the structure. They thought that their church was the structure. It was a magnificent structure and had been founded by God, but it had become their religion. They finally lost their souls because they attached their religion to their structure and refused to believe that it could never be removed.

“In cleansing the temple for the world’s buyers and sellers, Jesus announced His mission to cleanse the heart from the defilement of sin,—from the earthly desires, the selfish lusts, the evil habits, that corrupt the soul. ‘The Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, He shall come, saith the Lord of hosts. But who may abide the day of His coming? And who shall stand when He appeareth? For He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fuller’s soap; and He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver.’ Malachi 3:1-3.” Ibid.

Who are the sons of Levi? The priests. Why would God specifically say He was going to purify the sons of Levi? Because the spirituality of the church rarely rises any higher than that of the pastor. When you purify the sons of Levi, you purify the pastorate; and then the church gets purified. When you have a holy leadership, you have a holy church; and when you have an ungodly, apostate leadership, you have an unholy and apostate church. This is why it was that every time Israel had a righteous king, Israel was righteous, and every time they had a wicked king, they went deeper into apostasy. As the leadership goes, so the church goes.

“‘No man can of himself cast out the evil throng that have taken possession of the heart. Only Christ can cleanse the soul temple. But He will not force an entrance. He comes not into the heart as to the temple of old; but He says, ‘Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him.’ Revelation 3:20. He will come, not for one day merely; for He says, ‘I will dwell in them, and walk in them;…and they shall be My people.’ ‘He will subdue our iniquities; and Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.’ 2 Corinthians 6:16; Micah 7:19. His presence will cleanse and sanctify the soul, so that it may be a holy temple unto the Lord, and ‘an habitation of God through the Spirit.’ Ephesians 2:21, 22.” Ibid., 161, 162

Paul says, “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit.” 2 Corinthians 7:1. I know this sounds like heresy, but who does it say is to do the cleansing? “Let us cleanse ourselves.” Now what does that mean? How can we cleanse ourselves? By doing our part.

I had one fellow come up to me and say, “Pastor John, I canceled my newspaper. I had to do it.”

I said, “Well, praise the Lord. If you feel like you need to cancel your newspaper, then you had better do it; I am still receiving mine. You do not look down on me because I still get the newspaper, do you?”

“’No,” he said, “but I had to cancel mine.”

“Why?” I asked.

“Because I a am sports addict; sports was my god. I did not care about anything else. I had to get to the sports section and see who won last night.”

I do not care what it is in your life; if you cannot control it, get rid of it. Do whatever you have to do, but remove the thing that is causing you to defile the body temple.

Someone says, “Oh, no, let’s not be too drastic.” Yes, let’s be drastic. Our problem is that we are not willing to do drastic things for the Lord. We are right down to the end, and we are dealing with eternity here. God’s people have been fooling around for too long and we do not have time to do so any longer. The door of probation is closing and we have to get serious about going home.

You do not kneel down and pray, “Lord help me to sleep; I cannot sleep at night,” and then leave the light on. You must first get up and turn the light off, open the window, get into bed, put your face to the wall and do whatever else you need to do to get into a situation that is conducive to sleep. You do you part.

“At the beginning of His ministry, Christ had driven from the temple those who defiled it by their unholy traffic; and His stern and Godlike demeanor had struck terror to the hearts of the scheming traders. At the close of His mission he came again to the temple, and found it still desecrated as before.” Ibid., 589

Do you think that if God returned to His temple today, he would find it desecrated just as He did in 1900 when they were about to publish John Harvey Kellogg’s book on pantheism, The Living Temple? At that time, God burned the place down and destroyed the plates.

“Again the piercing look of Jesus swept over the desecrated court of the temple. All eyes were turned toward Him. Priest and ruler, Pharisee and Gentile, looked with astonishment and awe upon Him who stood before them with the majesty of heaven’s King. Divinity flashed through humanity, investing Christ with a dignity and glory He had never manifested before. Those standing nearest Him drew as far away as the crowd would permit. Except for a few of His disciples, the Saviour stood alone.” Ibid, 590, 591

How did the Saviour stand? Alone. You see, committees do not do this type of thing. There may be wisdom in a multitude of counselors, but I believe that we have so many committees that it is a stench in the nostrils of God. When you have a committee, nobody takes the blame for anything. It was a committee that wrote Questions on Doctrine, and it was a committee who put Issues together. Christ was willing to stand alone!

“The deep silence seemed unbearable. Christ spoke with a power that swayed the people like a mighty tempest: ‘It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.’ His voice sounded like a trumpet through the temple. The displeasure of His countenance seemed like a consuming fire. With authority He commanded, ‘Take these things hence.’ John 2:16

“Three years before, the rulers of the temple had been ashamed of their flight before the command of Jesus. They had since wondered at their own fears, and their unquestioning obedience to a single humble man. They had felt that it was impossible for their undignified surrender to be repeated. Yet they were now more terrified than before, and in greater haste to obey His command. There were none who dared question his authority. Priests and traders fled from His presence, driving their cattle before them.

“On the way from the temple they were met by a throng who came with their sick inquiring for the great Healer. The report given by the fleeing people caused some of these to turn back. They feared to meet One so powerful, whose very look had driven the priests and rulers from His presence.” Ibid., 591, 592

Why would these same people who threw down their coats in front of Jesus as he rode into Jerusalem, shouting “hosanna to the Son of David,” these same people who saw the religious leaders scorned and embarrassed, running for their lives, just a few days later cry, “Crucify Him, crucify Him! We have no king but Caesar”? How could they do this? It was because their leaders had control of their minds.

When leadership has control of the minds of the laity, they can even lead them to crucify the Son of God. This is why Jesus said, “They would not change their minds even if someone rose from the dead” (Luke 16:31). They had been so hypnotized by their religious leaders that even if somebody rose from the dead, their minds would remain unchanged. Any historic Adventist can identify with that situation. When you try to explain things to fellow church members, they are unable to understand what you are saying, the they just come right back with the same round of arguments; “The church may appear as about to fall…The church is the ship going through.” Even if you talk to them for hours, it does not change anything; their minds are locked. Apostate religious leaders have brought their minds to the place where white appears as black and black as white.

There was yet another work for Christ to accomplish. He returned to the temple again. “With hand uplifted to heaven, and a divine light enshrouding his person, Christ spoke as a judge to those before Him. His voice, that had so often been heard in gentleness and entreaty, was now heard in rebuke and condemnation.” Ibid., 619

Have you ever heard it said that Christ never condemned. Don’t you ever believe that. When it was time to rebuke, Christ rebuked. When it was time to condemn, Christ condemned. Be very careful about ever telling a man chosen of God to preach the three angels’ messages, that he had better be more Christlike. If he was more Christlike, you might no be able to handle it.

“Christ’s indignation was directed against the hypocrisy, the gross sins, by which men were destroying their own souls, deceiving the people, and dishonoring God. In the specious, deceptive reasoning of the priests and rulers, he discerned the working of Satanic agencies.” Ibid.

Where did Christ see the satanic agencies? In the people? In the leadership! Christ did not rebuke the people—the laity—like this. He rebuked apostate leadership who were being directed by satanic agencies.

“He had a holy wrath against the prince of darkness; but he manifested no irritated temper. So the Christian who lives in harmony with God, possessing the sweet attributes of love and mercy, will feel a righteous indignation against sin; but he will not be roused by passion to revile those who revile him. Even in meeting those who are moved by a power from beneath to maintain falsehood, in Christ he will still preserve calmness and self-possession.

“Divine pity marked the countenance of the Son of God as He cast one lingering look upon the temple and then upon His hearers. In a voice choked by deep anguish of heart and bitter tears he exclaimed, ‘O Jerusalem, Jerusalem thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!’ This is the separation struggle. In the lamentation of Christ the very heart of God is pouring itself forth. It is the mysterious farewell of the longsuffering love of the Diety.

“Pharisees and Sadducees were alike silenced. Jesus summoned His disciples, and prepared to leave the temple, not as one defeated and forced from the presence of his adversaries, but as one whose work was accomplished. He retired a victor from the contest.” Ibid., 619, 620

“Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, ye shall not see Me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord.” Matthew 23:38, 39

Before we are tempted to so glibly say, “Well, we think you ought to be Christlike,” we need to study how, when idolatry was being brought into the church, Christ dealt with apostasy in His Father’s house. May God help us each one to have the wisdom and courage to be truly Christlike in all things.

The End

Bible Study Guides – Four Successful Missionaries

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November 21, 2015 – November 27, 2015

Key Text

“Now from among those [captives] of the sons of Judah were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.” Daniel 1:6 NKJV.

Study Help: Prophets and Kings, 479–490, 499–502, 510–513, 539–548.

Introduction

“Among the children of Israel who were carried captive to Babylon at the beginning of the seventy years’ captivity were Christian patriots.” A Call to Stand Apart, 52.

1 IN THE COURT OF BABYLON

  • What providential decision put King Nebuchadnezzar in contact with four Hebrew captives and, later, with their God? Daniel 1:3–5.
  • What were the names of the young men chosen for that purpose? Daniel 1:6. After being approved to take part in a three-year training course, how and why were their names changed? Verse 7.

Note: “The [Babylonish] king did not compel the Hebrew youth to renounce their faith in favor of idolatry, but he hoped to bring this about gradually. By giving them names significant of idolatry, by bringing them daily into close association with idolatrous customs, and under the influence of the seductive rites of heathen worship, he hoped to induce them to renounce the religion of their nation and to unite with the worship of the Babylonians.” Prophets and Kings, 481.

“When the enemy thrusts into our souls his subtle doubts and temptations, we are to close the door quickly, and dispel the influence of his suggestion, by repeating the Scripture.” The Review and Herald, August 7, 1888.

2 FAITHFULNESS ATTENDED WITH GOD’S BLESSINGS

  • How did God help those young Hebrews to be a shining light among the heathen during their difficult circumstances? Daniel 1:17.

Note: “In the land of their captivity these men [the children of Israel] were to carry out God’s purpose by giving to heathen nations the blessings that come through a knowledge of Jehovah. They were to be His representatives.” Prophets and Kings, 479.

  • What was their decision in view of the temptation surrounding them? James 1:12.

Note: “[Daniel 1:8 quoted.]

“In reaching this decision, the Hebrew youth did not act presumptuously but in firm reliance upon God. They did not choose to be singular, but they would be so rather than dishonor God. Should they compromise with wrong in this instance by yielding to the pressure of circumstances, their departure from principle would weaken their sense of right and their abhorrence of wrong. The first wrong step would lead to others, until, their connection with Heaven severed, they would be swept away by temptation.” Prophets and Kings, 483.

  • How did God bless their faithful efforts? Daniel 1:19.

Note: “For three years the Hebrew youth studied to acquire ‘the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans’ (Daniel 1:4). During this time they held fast their allegiance to God and depended constantly upon His power. With their habits of self-denial they united earnestness of purpose, diligence, and steadfastness. It was not pride or ambition that had brought them into the king’s court, into companionship with those who neither knew nor feared God; they were captives in a strange land, placed there by Infinite Wisdom. Separated from home influences and sacred associations, they sought to acquit themselves creditably, for the honor of their down-trodden people, and for the glory of Him Whose servants they were.” Prophets and Kings, 484.

3 DIVINE POWER COMBINED WITH HUMAN EFFORT

  • How and why did the Hebrew youth excel? Daniel 1:20.

Note: “At the court of Babylon were gathered representatives from all lands, men of the highest talent, men the most richly endowed with natural gifts, and possessed of the broadest culture that the world could bestow; yet among them all, the Hebrew youth were without a peer. In physical strength and beauty, in mental vigor and literary attainment, they stood unrivaled. The erect form, the firm, elastic step, the fair countenance, the undimmed senses, the untainted breath—all were so many certificates of good habits, insignia of the nobility with which nature honors those who are obedient to her laws.

“In acquiring the wisdom of the Babylonians, Daniel and his companions were far more successful than their fellow students; but their learning did not come by chance. They obtained their knowledge by the faithful use of their powers, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.” Prophets and Kings, 485, 486.

  • What did they realize—and what should be likewise considered by all who are called to represent true religion? II Timothy 2:15.

Note: “They [Daniel and his companions] realized that in order to stand as representatives of true religion amid the false religions of heathenism they must have clearness of intellect and must perfect a Christian character.” Prophets and Kings, 486.

  • What method of successful evangelism did Jesus teach—especially since the world around us looks for something holier in us than in themselves? Matthew 5:13–16.

Note: “While God was working in Daniel and his companions ‘to will and to do of His good pleasure,’ they were working out their own salvation (Philippians 2:13).” Prophets and Kings, 486.

4 NEBUCHADNEZZAR GIVES GLORY TO GOD

  • Soon after Daniel and his companions entered the service of the Babylonish king, what event offered Daniel an opportunity to testify in behalf of God? Daniel 2:1, 2.
  • In response to the revelation of the king’s dream through Daniel, how did Nebuchadnezzar acknowledge the God of heaven? Verse 47. What declaration did Nebuchadnezzar later make in response to the faithful witness that Daniel’s companions gave on the plain of Dura? Daniel 3:27–29.

Note: “The three Hebrews declared to the whole nation of Babylon their faith in Him Whom they worshiped. They relied on God. In the hour of their trial they remembered the promise, ‘When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee’ (Isaiah 43:2). And in a marvelous manner their faith in the living Word had been honored in the sight of all. The tidings of their wonderful deliverance were carried to many countries by the representatives of the different nations that had been invited by Nebuchadnezzar to the dedication.” Prophets and Kings, 512.

  • In His mercy and patience with Nebuchadnezzar, how did God warn the monarch? Daniel 4:5, 10–16, 19–22. After explaining the king’s second dream, what appeal did Daniel make to him? Verse 27. What humbling experience led to Nebuchadnezzar’s full conversion? Verses 30–34, 37.

Note: “Under the rebuke of God the proud heart of Nebuchadnezzar was humbled.” The Review and Herald, September 8, 1896.

“The once proud monarch had become a humble child of God; the tyrannical, overbearing ruler, a wise and compassionate king. … Under the rebuke of Him who is King of kings and Lord of lords, Nebuchadnezzar had learned at last the lesson which all rulers need to learn—that true greatness consists in true goodness.” Prophets and Kings, 521.

5 THE LIGHT OF HEAVEN SHINES UPON KING DARIUS

  • How was the faith of Daniel tested when he was serving under Darius, whom he had already influenced for the truth? Explain the snare prepared for him. Daniel 6:1, 2, 5–9.
  • How did Daniel respond to the decree? Daniel 6:10–13.
  • How did King Darius feel when he realized he had been deceived by the very men who pretended to be concerned for the safety of his throne? Daniel 6:14, 18–23. How did the heathen king exalt the God of Daniel as the only true God? Verses 25, 26.

Note: “From the story of Daniel’s deliverance we may learn that in seasons of trial and gloom God’s children should be just what they were when their prospects were bright with hope and their surroundings all that they could desire. Daniel in the lions’ den was the same Daniel who stood before the king as chief among the ministers of state and as a prophet of the Most High. A man whose heart is stayed upon God will be the same in the hour of his greatest trial as he is in prosperity, when the light and favor of God and of man beam upon him. …

“Heaven is very near those who suffer for righteousness’ sake.” Prophets and Kings, 545.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Explain how subtle snares are placed before us and our youth today, just as they were in the case of the three Hebrews in Babylon.

2 What was the secret of the young men’s success?

3 When the unholy multitudes meet us, for what are many hoping?

4 What lesson taught to Nebuchadnezzar must be enshrined in every one of us—whether or not we are prominent people?

5 Give evidence of the Holy Spirit’s working in the heart of Darius.

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Extraordinary Ways to Reach the Worldly-Minded

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November 14, 2015 – November 20, 2015

Key Text

“I will set My glory among the heathen.” Ezekiel 39:21.

Study Help: Prophets and Kings, 244–253.

Introduction

“Even among the heathen there were men through whom Christ was working to uplift the people from their sin and degradation.” The Desire of Ages, 35.

1 HOME TRAINING

  • What are some names mentioned in the Bible in connection with the right kind of home training? I Samuel 1:20; II Kings 5:2; Ruth 4:22; Daniel 1:6.

Note: “God had commanded the Hebrews to teach their children His requirements and to make them acquainted with all His dealings with their fathers. This was one of the special duties of every parent—one that was not to be delegated to another. In the place of stranger lips the loving hearts of the father and mother were to give instruction to their children. Thoughts of God were to be associated with all the events of daily life.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 592.

  • What is the first duty of Christian parents? Proverbs 22:6.

Note: “Let us teach them [our children] the claims which God has upon them, that it is their duty to carry religion into every department of life, that they should love God supremely, and love their neighbor, not neglecting the little courtesies of life which are essential to happiness.” Child Guidance, 189.

2 A LITTLE MAID IN CAPTIVITY

  • How did a little girl, who had been properly educated by her parents, serve as one of God’s witnesses among the heathen? II Kings 5:2, 3.

Note: “The parents of that Hebrew maid, as they taught her of God, did not know the destiny that would be hers. But they were faithful to their trust; and in the home of the captain of the Syrian host, their child bore witness to the God whom she had learned to honor.” Prophets and Kings, 246.

  • Name the most precious gift with which we can endow our children. Deuteronomy 4:10.

Note: “There is no higher trust than that committed to fathers and mothers in the care and training of their children. Parents have to do with the very foundations of habit and character. By their example and teaching the future of their children is largely decided. …

“Parents who impart to the child such a gift have endowed him with a treasure more precious than the wealth of all the ages, a treasure as enduring as eternity.

“We know not in what line our children may be called to serve. They may spend their lives within the circle of the home; they may engage in life’s common vocations, or go as teachers of the gospel to heathen lands; but all are alike called to be missionaries for God, ministers of mercy to the world. They are to obtain an education that will help them to stand by the side of Christ in unselfish service.” Prophets and Kings, 245.

  • What must we sometimes realize when we think of the unusual things that happen to us? Jeremiah 10:23; Proverbs 16:9.

Note: “A slave, far from her home, this little maid was nevertheless one of God’s witnesses, unconsciously fulfilling the purpose for which God had chosen Israel as His people.” Prophets and Kings, 244.

3 NAAMAN

  • How did Jehoram, the king of Israel, respond when he read a letter from the king of Syria, and how did Elisha seek to encourage him? II Kings 5:7, 8.
  • When Naaman came to the door of Elisha’s residence, how was his faith tested? II Kings 5:9–12. Describe the miracle that served to both heal Naaman and convert him to worship the God of Israel. Verses 13, 14.

Note: “Naaman had expected to see some wonderful manifestation of power from heaven. ‘I thought,’ he said, ‘he will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper.’ When told to wash in the Jordan, his pride was touched, and in mortification and disappointment he exclaimed, ‘Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean?’ ‘So he turned and went away in a rage’ (II Kings 5:11, 12).

“The proud spirit of Naaman rebelled against following the course outlined by Elisha. The rivers mentioned by the Syrian captain were beautified by surrounding groves, and many flocked to the banks of these pleasant streams to worship their idol gods. It would have cost Naaman no great humiliation of soul to descend into one of those streams. But it was only through following the specific directions of the prophet that he could find healing. Willing obedience alone would bring the desired result.” Prophets and Kings, 246, 249.

  • How did Naaman confess his conversion to the true God? II Kings 5:15, 16, 19. Many centuries later, in what way did Jesus commend the faith of Naaman? Luke 4:27.

Note: “Centuries after Naaman returned to his Syrian home, healed in body and converted in spirit, his wonderful faith was referred to and commended by the Saviour as a lesson for all who claim to serve God.” Prophets and Kings, 252, 253.

4 GEHAZI

  • How was Gehazi used by the devil to put a stumbling block before those whom the Holy Spirit was working to save? II Kings 5:20–24.

Note: “Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, had had opportunity during the years to develop the spirit of self-denial characterizing his master’s lifework. It had been his privilege to become a noble standard-bearer in the army of the Lord. The best gifts of Heaven had long been within his reach; yet, turning from these, he had coveted instead the base alloy of worldly wealth. And now the hidden longings of his avaricious spirit led him to yield to an overmastering temptation.” Prophets and Kings, 250.

“This man [Gehazi] dwelt in the household of the holy prophet Elisha, saw his godly life, heard his fervent prayers, and his inculcation of correct principles. Yet he was not made better.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1529.

  • What is required of every Christian, especially of those called to work as teachers, church officers, or evangelists? Hebrews 12:13.

Note: “Wrongs perpetrated by believers in the truth bring great weakness upon the church. They are stumbling blocks in the way of sinners and prevent them from coming to the light.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 252

“Those who claim to keep and teach the holy law of God, and yet are continually transgressing that law, are stumbling blocks both to sinners and to believers in the truth. The loose, lax way in which many regard the law of Jehovah and the gift of His Son, is an insult to God. The only way in which we can correct this wide-spread evil, is to examine closely every one who would become a teacher of the Word. Those upon whom this responsibility rests, should acquaint themselves with his history since he professed to believe the truth. His Christian experience and his knowledge of the Scriptures, the way in which he holds present truth, should all be understood. No one should be accepted as a laborer in the cause of God, until he makes it manifest that he has a real, living experience in the things of God.” Gospel Workers, 437, 438.

  • On what does our spiritual security depend? I Corinthians 10:12; II Corinthians 13:5.

5 MEN CANNOT DECEIVE GOD

  • What happened to Gehazi as soon as he uttered a second falsehood? II Kings 5:25–27.
  • What does the Bible say about those who speak lies? Proverbs 19:5; Colossians 3:25; Revelation 22:15.

Note: “Truth is of God; deception in all its myriad forms is of Satan, and whoever in any way departs from the straight line of truth is betraying himself into the power of the wicked one. Those who have learned of Christ will ‘have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness’ (Ephesians 5:11). In speech, as in life, they will be simple, straightforward, and true, for they are preparing for the fellowship of those holy ones in whose mouth is found no guile. (See Revelation 14:5.)” Prophets and Kings, 252.

“False speaking in any matter, every attempt or purpose to deceive our neighbor, is here included [in the ninth commandment]. An intention to deceive is what constitutes falsehood. By a glance of the eye, a motion of the hand, an expression of the countenance, a falsehood may be told as effectually as by words. All intentional overstatement, every hint or insinuation calculated to convey an erroneous or exaggerated impression, even the statement of facts in such a manner as to mislead, is falsehood. This precept forbids every effort to injure our neighbor’s reputation by misrepresentation or evil surmising, by slander or tale bearing. Even the intentional suppression of truth, by which injury may result to others, is a violation of the ninth commandment.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 309.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 How can we prepare our children to be like the little Israelite maid?

2 What is the calling of our youth—in whatever area they serve?

3 How can people be touched today, just as Naaman was?

4 What spirit of Gehazi can spoil our best evangelistic efforts?

5 What is required of all Christians—especially when witnessing?

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Jonah

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November 7, 2015 – November 13, 2015

Key Text

“Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me.” Jonah 1:2.

Study Help: Prophets and Kings, 265–278.

Introduction

“The responsibility placed upon Jonah, in the charge given him to warn the inhabitants of Nineveh, was indeed great; yet He who had bidden him go was well able to sustain His servant and give him success.” The Review and Herald, December 4, 1913.

1 “NINEVEH, THAT GREAT CITY”

  • What was the moral condition of Nineveh at the time Jonah was sent there? Nahum 3:1.

Note: “In the time of its temporal prosperity Nineveh was a center of crime and wickedness. …

“Yet Nineveh, wicked though it had become, was not wholly given over to evil. He who ‘beholdeth all the sons of men’ (Psalm 33:13) and ‘seeth every precious thing’ (Job 28:10) perceived in that city many who were reaching out after something better and higher, and who, if granted opportunity to learn of the living God, would put away their evil deeds and worship Him.” Prophets and Kings, 265, 266.

  • Comparing the cities of Sodom and Nineveh, how many souls were within the reach of the Holy Spirit? Genesis 18:32; Jonah 4:11. What warning echoes down to us today?

Note: “The sins of Sodom are repeated in our day, and the earth is destroyed and corrupted under the inhabitants thereof; but the worst feature of the iniquity of this day is a form of godliness without the power thereof. Those who profess to have great light are found among the careless and indifferent, and the cause of Christ is wounded in the house of its professed friends. Let those who would be saved, arouse from their lethargy, and give the trumpet a certain sound; for the end of all things is at hand.” The Signs of the Times, October 16, 1893.

2 JONAH’S FAITH TESTED

  • Who was commissioned to call the Ninevites to repentance, and how did the devil tempt him to doubt, hesitate, and finally try to reject God’s call? Jonah 1:2, 3.

Note: “As the prophet thought of the difficulties and seeming impossibilities of this commission, he was tempted to question the wisdom of the call. From a human viewpoint it seemed as if nothing could be gained by proclaiming such a message in that proud city. He forgot for the moment that the God Whom he served was all-wise and all-powerful. While he hesitated, still doubting, Satan overwhelmed him with discouragement. The prophet was seized with a great dread, and he ‘rose up to flee unto Tarshish’ (Jonah 1:3). …

“In the charge given him, Jonah had been entrusted with a heavy responsibility; yet He who had bidden him go was able to sustain His servant and grant him success. Had the prophet obeyed unquestioningly, he would have been spared many bitter experiences, and would have been blessed abundantly.” Prophets and Kings, 266.

  • What happened while Jonah was sleeping under the impression that he was safely fleeing from his God-given responsibility? Jonah 1:4, 5.

Note: “If, when the call first came to him, Jonah had stopped to consider calmly, he might have known how foolish would be any effort on his part to escape the responsibility placed upon him. But not for long was he permitted to go on undisturbed in his mad flight.” Prophets and Kings, 267.

  • What should all learn from the captain’s rebuke with which he awakened the sleeping prophet? Jonah 1:6. What did the mariners do as a last resort to still the storm? Verse 7.

Note: “The prayers of the man who had turned aside from the path of duty brought no help.” Prophets and Kings, 267.

3 EVANGELISM THROUGH PROVIDENTIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

  • When the ship’s crew interrogated Jonah, how did the prophet identify himself? Jonah 1:8, 9.
  • How did those mariners finally become acquainted with the true God? Jonah 1:10–16.
  • What opportunities and privileges for witnessing do we often forfeit, and why? I Peter 3:15.

Note: “If the needs of the Lord’s work were set forth in a proper light before those who have means and influence, these men might do much to advance the cause of present truth. God’s people have lost many privileges of which they could have taken advantage, had they not chosen to stand independent of the world.

“In the providence of God, we are daily brought into connection with the unconverted. By His own right hand God is preparing the way before us, in order that His work may progress rapidly. As colaborers with Him, we have a sacred work to do. We are to have travail of soul for those who are in high places; we are to extend to them the gracious invitation to come to the marriage feast.” Counsels on Stewardship, 186.

“Many flatter themselves that they could do great things if they only had the opportunity, but something has always prevented them; Providence has hedged their way in so that they could not do what they desired to do. We expect no great opportunity will meet us on the road, but by prompt and vigorous action we must seize the opportunities, make opportunities and master difficulties.

“You are in need of vital energy from heaven. We must in our work not only strike the iron when it is hot but make the iron hot by striking. Slow, easy, indolent movements will do nothing for us in this work. We must be instant in season, out of season. These are critical times for work. By hesitation and delay we lose many good opportunities. …

“That which stands most in the way of your performing duty is irresolution, weakness of purpose, indecision.” Evangelism, 647.

4 A LESSON FOR GOD’S MESSENGERS

  • After Jonah had been vomited upon the dry land, what command did he receive from the Lord the second time? Jonah 3:1, 2.
  • What did he do as soon as he entered the doomed city? Jonah 3:3.
  • In what way did God demonstrate His mercy towards Nineveh, and why? Jonah 3:5–10.

Note: “As Jonah entered the city, he began at once to ‘cry against’ it the message, ‘Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown’ (Jonah 3:4). From street to street he went, sounding the note of warning. …

“As king and nobles, with the common people, the high and the low, ‘repented at the preaching of Jonas’ (Matthew 12:41) and united in crying to the God of heaven, His mercy was granted them. … Their doom was averted, the God of Israel was exalted and honored throughout the heathen world, and His law was revered. Not until many years later was Nineveh to fall a prey to the surrounding nations through forgetfulness of God and through boastful pride.” Prophets and Kings, 270, 271.

  • What comparison did Jesus make between the repentant heathen and the Jews who refused to repent? Matthew 12:41.

Note: “God allows men a period of probation; but there is a point beyond which Divine patience is exhausted, and the judgments of God are sure to follow. The Lord bears long with men, and with cities, mercifully giving warnings to save them from divine wrath; but a time will come when pleadings for mercy will no longer be heard, and the rebellious element that continues to reject the light of truth will be blotted out, in mercy to themselves and to those who would otherwise be influenced by their example.” Prophets and Kings, 276.

“We shall not be held accountable for the light that has not reached our perception, but for that which we have resisted and refused.” The Review and Herald, April 25, 1893.

5 JONAH IS BROUGHT TO HIS SENSES

  • Instead of rejoicing over the repentance of Nineveh, how did Jonah complain to the Lord, and what excuse did Jonah make for his doubts and disobedience? Jonah 4:1–3.
  • What should we learn from the way God sought to bring Jonah to his senses? Jonah 4:5–11.

Note: “Confused, humiliated, and unable to understand God’s purpose in sparing Nineveh, Jonah nevertheless had fulfilled the commission given him to warn that great city; and though the event predicted did not come to pass, yet the message of warning was nonetheless from God. And it accomplished the purpose God designed it should. The glory of His grace was revealed among the heathen.” Prophets and Kings, 272, 273.

“Our God is a God of mercy. With long-sufferance and tender compassion He deals with the transgressors of His law. And yet, in this our day, when men and women have so many opportunities for becoming familiar with the divine law as revealed in Holy Writ, the great Ruler of the universe cannot behold with any satisfaction the wicked cities, where reign violence and crime.” Ibid., 275, 276.

“Every angel in glory is interested in the work being done for the salvation of souls. We are not awake as we should be.” Evangelism, 282.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What was the main difference between Sodom and Nineveh?

2 Name some ways by which we may be in danger of imitating Jonah’s hesitation, doubt, and attempt to escape God’s voice.

3 How might God surprise us as He did Jonah after fulfilling his duty to warn of impending judgment?

4 How is our attitude too often like Jonah’s after the victory?

5 What kinds of illustrations to awaken us does God give us today?

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – A Prophet of Peace

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November 1, 2015 – November 7, 2015

Key Text

“I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.” II Kings 2:9.

Study Help: Prophets and Kings, 235–264.

Introduction

“When the Lord in His providence sees fit to remove from His work those to whom He has given wisdom, He helps and strengthens their successors, if they will look to Him for aid and will walk in His ways.” Conflict and Courage, 223.

1 ELISHA’S PROPHETIC MINISTRY

  • What happened to Elijah after his reformatory work in Judah and Israel? II Kings 2:11, 12.
  • In summary, how did Elisha benefit from the time spent with Elijah? II Kings 2:2. What was the basic difference between the work assigned them? I Kings 17:1; II Kings 2:20–22.

Note: “As Elijah’s successor, Elisha, by careful, patient instruction, must endeavor to guide Israel in safe paths. His association with Elijah, the greatest prophet since the days of Moses, prepared him for the work that he was soon to take up alone.” Prophets and Kings, 224.

“The work of Elisha as a prophet was in some respects very different from that of Elijah. To Elijah had been committed messages of condemnation and judgment; his was the voice of fearless reproof, calling king and people to turn from their evil ways. Elisha’s was a more peaceful mission; his it was to build up and strengthen the work that Elijah had begun; to teach the people the way of the Lord. Inspiration pictures him as coming into personal touch with the people, surrounded by the sons of the prophets, bringing by his miracles and his ministry healing and rejoicing.” Ibid., 235.

2 EVEN THE SYRIANS KNEW!

  • When the king of Syria suspected treason in his government, how did he try to figure out where it was coming from? II Kings 6:8–11. Who was the actual source of the information that was given to the king of Israel? Verse 12.
  • What order did the Syrian king issue to solve the difficulty that was bothering him? When the spy (or spies) found out the whereabouts of the prophet, what did the king do? Verses 13, 14.

Note: “In continued wars with the Syrians, Jehoahaz, Jehu’s successor, had lost some of the cities lying east of the Jordan. For a time it had seemed as if the Syrians might gain control of the entire kingdom.” Prophets and Kings, 254.

“On one occasion, during a Syrian invasion, the king of Syria sought to destroy Elisha because of his activity in apprising the king of Israel of the plans of the enemy. The Syrian king had taken counsel with his servants, saying, ‘In such and such a place shall be my camp’ (II Kings 6:8). This plan was revealed by the Lord to Elisha.” Ibid., 255, 256.

  • What promise should the servants of God claim when they are in a very serious difficulty or when their life is threatened? Psalm 34:7.

Note: “When the people of God are brought into strait places, and apparently there is no escape for them, the Lord alone must be their dependence.” Prophets and Kings, 257.

“Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us of which we know nothing. Those who accept the one principle of making the service of God supreme, will find perplexities vanish and a plain path before their feet. …

“In the darkest days, when appearances seem most forbidding, have faith in God.” The Ministry of Healing, 481, 482.

3 STRUCK WITH BLINDNESS

  • What message did Elisha’s terrified servant bring to his master? II Kings 6:15. What answer did Elisha give his servant to calm him down? Verse 16.

Note: “Between the servant of God and the hosts of armed foemen was an encircling band of heavenly angels. They had come down in mighty power, not to destroy, not to exact homage, but to encamp round about and minister to the Lord’s weak and helpless ones.” Prophets and Kings, 257.

  • What incontrovertible truth does Elisha’s answer teach? Romans 8:31.

Note: “In comparison with the millions of the world, God’s people will be, as they have ever been, a little flock; but if they stand for the truth as revealed in His word, God will be their refuge. They stand under the broad shield of Omnipotence. God is always a majority.” The Acts of the Apostles, 590.

  • What should we thoughtfully ponder from the way Elisha treated the Syrian army? II Kings 6:17–20.

Note: “A single unrighteous act of will, or bitterness, envy, jealousy, or evil surmising will quench the Spirit of God and banish from your heart true happiness. …

“Even hatred to an evil worker will place you in a position where your judgment will be warped and you will not be a doer of the work of Christ to render good for evil. While you despise the sin, you should love the souls of those for whom Christ has paid the price of His own blood.

“The desire for revenge, or any emotion but that of tender, pitying love as Jesus exercises toward us, fallen sinful humanity, injures the soul and is registered against us in heaven.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 21, 164, 165.

4 WISE PEOPLE TRY TO MAKE PEACE; FOOLS MAKE WAR

  • What should we learn from the advice Elisha gave the king of Israel? II Kings 6:21–23. What is the best way to disarm an enemy? Romans 12:20.

Note: “Here is where many fail. We do not cultivate a disposition to kindness, we want everything to come in an easy way to ourselves. But the question of greatest importance to each one of us should be, not how we can carry our own plans against the plans of others, but how we can have the power to live Christ every day. Christ came to earth and gave His life that we might have eternal salvation. He wants to encircle each of us with the atmosphere of heaven, that we may give to the world an example that will honor the religion of Christ.” Loma Linda Messages, 602.

  • What happened to the Israelites after they turned farther from the Lord? How did the judgments predicted in Deuteronomy 5:9 fall upon them in the time of the kings of Syria? II Kings 6:24, 25.
  • What happened when the famine in Samaria drove the king and the people to desperate measures? II Kings 7:1–9, 16, 20.

Note: “It was because of His love for erring Israel that God permitted the Syrians to scourge them. It was because of His compassion for those whose moral power was weak that He raised up Jehu to slay wicked Jezebel and all the house of Ahab. Once more, through a merciful providence, the priests of Baal and of Ashtoreth were set aside and their heathen altars thrown down. God in His wisdom foresaw that if temptation were removed, some would forsake heathenism and turn their faces heavenward, and this is why He permitted calamity after calamity to befall them. His judgments were tempered with mercy; and when His purpose was accomplished, He turned the tide in favor of those who had learned to inquire after Him.” Prophets and Kings, 254, 255.

5 AN IMPORTANT LESSON FOR US

  • What lesson did Elisha, during his last days, try to teach the king of Israel? II Kings 13:14–17.
  • How did the prophet expect the young king to show that he had understood the lesson? Verses 18, 19.

Note: “The lesson is for all in positions of trust. When God opens the way for the accomplishment of a certain work and gives assurance of success, the chosen instrumentality must do all in his power to bring about the promised result. In proportion to the enthusiasm and perseverance with which the work is carried forward will be the success given. God can work miracles for His people only as they act their part with untiring energy. He calls for men of devotion to His work, men of moral courage, with ardent love for souls, and with a zeal that never flags. Such workers will find no task too arduous, no prospect too hopeless; they will labor on, undaunted, until apparent defeat is turned into glorious victory. Not even prison walls nor the martyr’s stake beyond, will cause them to swerve from their purpose of laboring together with God for the upbuilding of His kingdom.” Prophets and Kings, 263.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Is God calling me to be more of an Elijah-type witness for Him right now or an Elisha-type?

2 Explain how God is willing to give divine insight to us today, just as He did in the days of Elisha.

3 Contrary to the king’s own hostile intention, what advice did Elisha give him—and why?

4 Name some examples by which we—in our circumstances today—can reflect Elisha’s approach toward the Syrian army.

5 Explain the formula for spiritual success as it was taught to Joash.

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Recipe – Healthy Mashed Cauliflower

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Recipe – Healthy Mashed Cauliflower
By

1 small or medium head of cauliflower, washed, trimmed, and chopped roughly 2 Tbsp. almond or rice milk
1/4–1/2 tsp. salt 2 Tbsp. Earth Balance or oil
1 small clove garlic, minced 1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1. Chop cauliflower into smaller chunks – about bite-size pieces works well.

2. Peel garlic clove(s) and cut in half, lengthwise.

3. Steam cauliflower and garlic for 15 minutes, or until cauliflower and garlic are tender enough for a fork to easily pass through.

4. Drain and transfer to a food processor and pulse until the cauliflower is broken down in the processor.

5 Add salt, earth balance or oil, and, with the motor now running, add almond milk for a light, smooth texture.

6 Add thyme, and pulse till incorporated. Serve hot!

This mashed cauliflower recipe is a delicious and healthy substitute for traditional mashed potatoes.