Chapter 26—Brotherly Love
Love for Others Brings Joy—I would say to my brethren every-
where: Cultivate the love of Christ! It should well up from the soul
of the Christian like streams in the desert, refreshing and beautifying,
bringing gladness, peace, and joy into his own life and into the lives
of others.—
Testimonies for the Church 5:565
(1889).
Example of Unselfish Love Irresistible—The more closely we
resemble our Saviour in character, the greater will be our love toward
those for whom He died. Christians who manifest a spirit of unselfish
love for one another are bearing a testimony for Christ which unbeliev-
ers can neither gainsay nor resist. It is impossible to estimate the power
of such an example. Nothing will so successfully defeat the devices
of Satan and his emissaries, nothing will so build up the Redeemer’s
kingdom, as will the love of Christ manifested by the members of the
church.—
Testimonies for the Church 5:167, 168
(1882).
Self May Obscure Love—Love is an active principle; it keeps
the good of others continually before us, thus restraining us from
inconsiderate actions lest we fail of our object in winning souls to
Christ. Love seeks not its own. It will not prompt men to seek their
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own ease and indulgence of self. It is the respect we render to I that
so often hinders the growth of love.—
Testimonies for the Church
5:124
(1882).
Humility Outgrowth of Love—Love vaunteth not itself. It is a
humble element; it never prompts a man to boast, to exalt himself.
Love for God and for our fellowmen will not be revealed in acts of
rashness or lead us to be overbearing, faultfinding, or dictatorial. Love
is not puffed up. The heart where love reigns will be guided to a
gentle, courteous, compassionate course of conduct toward others,
whether they suit our fancy or not, whether they respect us or treat us
ill.—
Testimonies for the Church 5:123, 124
(1882).
True Love Self-effacing—The devotion which God requires re-
veals itself in unfeigned love for the souls for whom Christ gave His
life. Christ dwelling in the heart will be manifested by the love which
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