Unity and Devotion
147
aim to fulfill the commission which Christ has given. Just before His
ascension the Saviour told His disciples that beginning at Jerusalem
they must go to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples; and He
added, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world”
(
Matthew 28:20
).—
Manuscript 14, 1901
.
The Ministry of Trials
[
Appeared in Notebook Leaflets, Christian Experience, No. 7
.]
In Christian experience, the Lord permits trials of various kinds to
call men and women to a higher order of living and to a more sanctified
service. Without these trials there would be a continual falling away
from the likeness of Christ, and men would become imbued with a
spirit of scientific, fanciful, human philosophy, which would lead them
to unite with Satan’s followers.
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In the providence of God, every good and great enterprise is sub-
jected to trials, to test the purity and the strength of the principles of
those who are standing in positions of responsibility, and to mold and
substantiate the individual human character after God’s model. This is
the highest order of education.
Perfection of character is attained through exercise of the faculties
of the mind, in times of supreme test, by obedience to every require-
ment of God’s law. Men in positions of trust are to be instrumentalities
in the hands of God for promoting His glory, and in performing their
duties with the utmost faithfulness they may attain perfection of char-
acter.
In the lives of those who are true to right principles, there will be a
continual growth in knowledge. They will have the privilege of being
acknowledged as colaborers with the great Master Worker in behalf
of the human family, and will act a glorious part in carrying out the
purposes of God. Thus, by precept and example, as laborers together
with God, they will glorify their Creator.—
Undated Manuscript 150
.
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