Reformation Herald Publishing

To Be Sealed as Blameless

by

June 22 – 28, 2025

Key Text

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

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

Introduction

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

Sunday

1 AN EXPERIENCE ESSENTIAL TO SALVATION

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

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

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

Monday

2 A WORK FOR THIS ERA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday

3 A SOLEMN TASK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday

4 CONDITIONS FOR THE LATTER RAIN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday

5 ULTIMATE VICTORY

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

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

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

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

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

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

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

3    What do many people misunderstand about the latter rain?

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

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

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

“As a Lamp That Burns”

by

June 15 – 21, 2025

Key Text

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

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

Introduction

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

Sunday

1 AWAKENING OUR PRIORITIES

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

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

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

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

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

Monday

2 IN AN AGE OF MORAL DARKNESS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday

3 RESULTS PROMISED

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday

4 COURAGE AMID OPPOSITION

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday

5 REAPING THE BOUNTY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spiritual Vitality

by

June 8 – 14, 2025

Key Text

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

Study Help: Steps to Christ, 73–95

Introduction

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

Sunday

1 A SYMBOL OF GOD’S CHARACTER

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

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

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

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

Monday

2 REFLECTING HIS CHARACTER

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday

3 FRUITS OF OUR CONNECTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday

4 COMING INTO LINE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday

5 THE TEST OF OUR DEVOTION

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

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

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

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

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

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Order and Organization

by

Living in the Day of Atonement

June 1 – 7, 2025

Key Text

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

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

Introduction

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

Sunday

1 DEVELOPING AN ORGANIZED MIND

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monday

2 SELF-DISCIPLINE FOR ETERNITY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday

3 INCREASING OUR WISDOM

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday

4 ORDER THAT HONORS GOD

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday

5 REPROVING POPULAR SINS

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

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

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

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

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

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

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

2    Why is temperance needed, even in intellectual pursuits?

3    Name some faulty work habits that should be overcome.

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

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

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

Recipe – Granola Bars

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Dates

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

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

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

Recipe – Granola Bars

Ingredients

1 cup dates, soaked for 20 minutes in hot water

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup tahini, or any nut butter

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

1 tsp. cardamom, or to taste

1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

1/2 cup sunflower seeds

1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup dried figs, chopped

1 pinch salt

1/4 cup carob chips

Process

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

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

Wicked Imaginations

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“An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations.”

Proverbs 6:18, first part

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

The children’s Sabbath School song still rings true.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Wisest Man

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[All Scriptures from the KJV.]

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

The Health Benefits of Winter

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

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

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

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

You Might be Smarter in Winter

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

Burn More

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

Do You Have Diabetes?

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

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

Achoooo!

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

Ahhhhh, Zzzzzz

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

Infections, viruses, and colds, oh my!

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

A Heart’s Work is Never Done

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

Layer After Layer

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

What Can I Do?

Here are some suggestions for outdoor winter activities:

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

Am I Blue?

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

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

Inspiration Says

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cold Weather Effects on Nature

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It is true that winter weather can have some negative effects in the environment, but it is also true that winter has positive—even necessary—effects in the environment.

“Snow affects people everywhere by cooling the Earth, supplying water for a variety of human uses, and sustaining healthy ecosystems, including fish and wildlife populations.”

Reflecting and Absorbing

On a sunny, snow-covered day the sun reflects off the bright white of snow. The heat and light coming from the sun is called radiation. The amount of radiation that is reflected from a material is called albedo, a Latin word meaning white. And what covers the Earth’s surface during winter with a whole lot of white and contains the greatest amount of albedo? That’s right, snow. New snow (the brightest and whitest) on the ground reflects up to 90% of the incoming radiation from the sun. The older and dirtier the snow, the less radiation it reflects.

The albedo is either absorbed by the earth or reflected back into the atmosphere. The more radiation the Earth absorbs, the warmer it becomes. But when snow covers the Earth’s surface, the majority of the albedo is reflected back into the atmosphere instead of being absorbed into the earth, and thus, it keeps the planet cooler.

Water Supply

The more snow that falls the greater the melt when warmer temperatures arrive. This melting snow soon becomes the water that comes out of the faucet, it helps produce the food we eat, and supplies electricity. Melting snow is actually critical as a source of water for agriculture, electricity generation, and other industrial uses.

Agriculture

Winter is a tough time for farmers, but farmers are pretty tough, too. Despite the risk of frost, which can damage both crops and the soil, the farmer uses winter as an opportunity to prepare the land and make plans for the coming year’s crops. They plant cold-resistant crops (i.e., garlic, carrots, spinach, lentils) using protective techniques to help mitigate the cold weather.

Winter time is the recommended time for applying compost or manure to the soil. This helps the soil to maintain its structure and fertility. To protect your winter crop from frost cover it with mesh or plastic or mulch. A light watering at the end of the day, before the temperatures drop to the point of frost, will help to keep the plants from freezing.

Did You Know? If you live in the western U.S., there’s a good chance that you brushed your teeth this morning with water that started out as millions of tiny snowflakes that fell in the mountains during the winter. The eastern U.S. enjoys sufficient year-round precipitation in the form of snow and rain. This provides a reliable source of water. The precipitation seeps through the soil into underground aquifers storing water until it is pumped out when needed.

Snowmelt supplies 75% of the water supply in the western states, and this is important because of the warmer temperatures particularly in the summer months. Melting snow is a slow process that begins in the spring and provides a steady flow of water.

Source: ourwinterworld.org\importance-of-snow

Did You Know? If you thought that winter would wipe out those pesky pests like fleas and ticks, you’ll have to think again. Cold temperatures can kill some, but both fleas and ticks have gotten pretty good at surviving even a really cold, hard winter.

“If we had perpetual summer, we should not value as we do now its bright days and beautiful flowers. Through the winter months we look forward to the time when summer with its beauty will once more gladden the earth.

“So it is with the Christian life. … Our sojourn here is as it were the Christian’s winter. But our faith and hope reach forward and upward … to the home that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love Him.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 18, 138

Source: agronoblog.com/agriculture/winter-and-its-impact-on-agriculture-a-guide-for-the-cold-season

‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

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Louisa M.R. Stead was born in England in 1850. As a young girl, she wanted to be a missionary. At 21, she immigrated to America, living in Cincinnati, Ohio. While attending a camp meeting in Urbana, Ohio, her desire to be a missionary grew, and her ambitions to serve in China sadly were dashed because of her frail health.

In 1875, Louisa married George Stead and moved to New York City. One summer day in 1880, Louisa and her husband, George, took their daughter Lily to Long Island Sound for a picnic. While enjoying the day by the seashore, they heard cries for help from a young boy struggling against the tide offshore. Without hesitation, George plunged into the water to save him.

But as Louisa and Lily watched from the shore, both George and the boy drowned. In those darkest days following her loss, and when grief was the most profound, Louisa turned to the one constant in her life: Jesus Christ.

As Louisa poured out her heart through prayer and tears, a divine inspiration began to stir within her soul, and the refrain of this beloved hymn was born. Through the words of this hymn, Louisa expressed her complete reliance on God’s promises and found peace and solace as she trusted her Saviour to carry her through this trial, as He had throughout her life. William J. Kirkpatrick set the lyrics of ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus to music, and the hymn became a beacon of hope for Louisa and Lily as they navigated their grief together and many others down through time.

The impact of the hymn is evident by its popularity and ability to touch hearts within churches across cultural barriers. It remains an enduring testament of unshakable faith amid sorrow and adversity. It serves as a reminder that we are never alone when we place our trust in our loving Saviour, as every Christian believer should.

As you sing or listen to this cherished hymn today, may you find strength and solace in knowing that you have a Saviour who loves you deeply and will carry you through every storm life brings your way.

Sources: hymncharts.com/2023/05/29/the-story-behind-tis-so-sweet-to-trust-in-jesus; Wikipedia.org/wiki/%27Tis_So_Sweet_to_Trust_in_Jesus

‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, “Thus says the Lord!”

O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
Just in simple faith to plunge me
‘Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

Yes, ‘tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace.

I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end.

Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!

How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er!
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!

Predestined or Predestined

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We are predestined to be saved because God created us to be His children. Sin and the separation it brings, had no place in His creation.

We are predestined to be saved because God formulated a plan so that if man exercised his free will and chose to love and serve another, there would be a way to bring him back.

We are predestined to be saved because Jesus came to this world to live the life that would restore us to the condition of holiness and righteousness that is necessary to live in the presence of Almighty God.

We are predestined to be saved because Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty that justly belongs to each one of us as sinners and to make forgiveness available to every man, woman, and child who choose to unite with Him as His child.

We are predestined to be saved when we accept the gift of salvation.

Everyone who commits his or her life to Christ is predestined to be saved, because God has promised that all who make a full surrender of their lives to Him are saved.

We are not predestined because God has a naughty or nice list on which He places a check mark by my name or your name and, regardless of our life, saves us while others on the list are left behind.

God has provided salvation through His Son, and when we accept that salvation and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us to be, once again, holy and righteous, then we become a part of His people, His church, all of whom are predestined to be saved by virtue of their acceptance of salvation and obedience to God’s law.

“Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself … .” Ephesians 1:4, 5, first part

“These promises are not made to a few, but to all who will come to the heavenly banquet that God has prepared by sending His Son to our world to die in our behalf, that through faith in Him, we should become one with God. … The predestination of which God speaks includes all who will accept Christ as a personal Saviour, who will return to their loyalty, to perfect obedience to all God’s commandments. This is the effectual salvation of a peculiar people, chosen by God from among men. All who are willing to be saved by Christ are the elect of God. It is the obedient who are predestinated from the foundation of the world.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 6, 388

God gives me the ability to reject His offer of salvation, but if I do not reject salvation, if I seek to develop a Christlike character, then I am predestined to be saved.

“The struggle is lifelong and the victory is certain. Every soul who has Christ abiding in him … will maintain a noble spirit, after the holy example of Christ. He will represent Christ’s character, maintaining integrity, purity, and holiness.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 938, 939