Brotherly Love
193
He enjoins upon His disciples. His true children will prefer others to
themselves. They do not seek for the lion’s share at any time or in
any place, because they do not look upon their talents as superior to
those of their brethren. When this is indeed the case, the sign will be
given in a revelation of the love which Christ manifested for the souls
of men—an unselfish, unfeigned love, which preferred the welfare of
others before His own.—
Manuscript 121, 1899.
Love Transforms Character—To those who know not the truth,
let the love of Jesus be presented, and it will work like leaven for the
transformation of character.—
Testimonies for the Church 8:60
(1904).
Selfish Love—God would have His children realize that in order to
glorify Him their affection must be given to those who most need it....
No selfishness in look, word, or deed is to be manifested when dealing
with those of like precious faith, ... whether they be high or low, rich
or poor. The love that gives kind words to only a few, while others are
[242]
treated with coldness and indifference, is not love but selfishness. It
will not in any way work for the good of souls or the glory of God.
Our love is not to be sealed up for special ones, to the neglect of others.
Break the bottle, and the fragrance will fill the house.—
Manuscript
17, 1899.
(HC 231.)
Ability No Substitute for Love—Talk, Pharisaism, and self-
praise are abundant; but these will never win souls to Christ. Pure,
sanctified love, such love as was expressed in Christ’s lifework, is as a
sacred perfume. Like Mary’s broken box of ointment, it fills the whole
house with fragrance. Eloquence, knowledge of truth, rare talents,
mingled with love, are all precious endowments. But ability alone, the
choicest talents alone, cannot take the place of love.—
Testimonies for
the Church 6:84
(1900).
Liberality a Proof of Love—The proof of our love is given in a
Christlike spirit, a willingness to impart the good things God has given
us, a readiness to practice self-denial and self-sacrifice in order to help
advance the cause of God and suffering humanity. Never should we
pass by the object that calls for our liberality. We reveal that we have
passed from death unto life when we act as faithful stewards of God’s
grace. God has given us His goods; He has given us His pledged word
that if we are faithful in our stewardship, we shall lay up in heaven
treasures that are imperishable.—
The Review and Herald, May 15,
1900
.