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That when Christ Appears we Shall be Like Him,
January 3
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear
what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall
be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
1 John 3:2
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We are not to settle down, expecting that a change of character will
come to us by some miraculous work, when Jesus shall appear in the
clouds of heaven with power and great glory. No, my young friends, we
are judgment-bound, and probation is granted to us here in this life, in
order that we may form characters for the future, immortal life
Let none imagine that selfishness, self-esteem, and self-indulgence are
compatible with the Spirit of Christ. Upon every truly converted man or
woman there rests a responsibility that we cannot rightly estimate. The
maxims and ways of the world are not to be adopted by the sons and
daughters of the heavenly King
In separating from the world, we shall encounter difficulties on every
hand. But here is comfort for us: “Beloved, now are we the sons of God,
and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when he
shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
We should show by our words and works that we recognize the great
responsibility laid upon us. Our light should shine so clearly that others
can see that we glorify the Father in our daily lives; that we are connected
with heaven and are joint heirs with Jesus Christ
To have fellowship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ is to be
ennobled and elevated, and made a partaker of joys unspeakable and full
of glory. Food, clothing, station, and wealth may have their value; but to
have a connection with God ... is of priceless value.... And although it
“doth not yet appear what we shall be,” “when Christ, who is our life, shall
appear,” “we shall be like him.
[10]
6
The Youth’s Instructor, August 24, 1893
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7
Testimonies For The Church 5:410
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8
Ellen G. White
Manuscript 28, 1886
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9
Testimonies For The Church 4:16
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10
Testimonies For The Church 4:357
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8