Basic HTML Version
Self-denial, March 23
Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.
Mark 10:28
.
All have daily lessons to learn in the school of Christ, and a daily
experience to gain, that they may understand their duty as His children.
Many an honest, well-meaning person makes no advancement in the
Christian life because he does not see the necessity of constantly learning
more of Jesus. When first converted, he rejoices that he has taken his
position on the Lord’s side. A year later, he bears the same testimony.
There is no evidence of spiritual growth; he is still weak as a child.... The
first experience of the new convert is happy and joyous; but trials come;
the perplexities of life are to be met; sinful traits of character that have not
been controlled, strive for the mastery, and too frequently obtain it. Then
come a loss of confidence and peace, neglect of prayer and the reading
of the Scriptures. For want of the knowledge and experience which they
should have, many are overcome by Satan. They do not know how to
discern his temptations, or to resist them....
Have faith in Jesus as your helper. Remember that you are not to
choose your own work, or follow your own ways, but to look to Jesus as
your guide and pattern. Keep His example before you, and constantly ask
what will be pleasing in His sight. Learn from Him lessons of self-denial
and self-sacrifice
Watch every moment, keeping your mind stayed upon God, instead
of having it upon dress, and suffering pride to dwell in your heart. Seek
to deny yourself; be holy; let your mind dwell upon heaven, and let your
conversation be there also.... Those who follow Christ will choose the
suffering, self-denying part, and will have His approbation here, and ...
glory, immortality and eternal life hereafter
[90]
62
The Youth’s Instructor, December 5, 1883
.
63
The Youth’s Instructor, May 1, 1854
.
90