Principles of Motivation
275
be brought under the control of the Holy Spirit. There is no end to the
warfare this side of eternity. But while there are constant battles to
fight, there are also precious victories to gain; and the triumph over
self and sin is of more value than the mind can estimate.—
Counsels to
Parents, Teachers, and Students, 20
(1913).
Two Antagonistic Motive Powers—The Bible is its own expos-
itor. Scripture is to be compared with scripture. The student should
learn to view the Word as a whole and to see the relation of its parts.
He should gain a knowledge of its grand central theme, of God’s orig-
inal purpose for the world, of the rise of the great controversy, and
of the work of redemption. He should understand the nature of the
two principles that are contending for supremacy and should learn to
trace their working through the records of history and prophecy, to the
great consummation. He should see how this controversy enters into
every phase of human experience; how in every act of life he himself
reveals the one or the other of the two antagonistic motives; and how,
whether he will or not, he is even now deciding upon which side of
the controversy he will be found.—
Education, 190
(1903).
[347]
Every Action Has Twofold Character—Every course of action
has a twofold character and importance. It is virtuous or vicious, right
or wrong, according to the motive which prompts it. A wrong action,
by frequent repetition, leaves a permanent impression upon the mind
of the actor and also on the minds of those who are connected with him
in any relation, either spiritual or temporal. The parents or teachers
who give no attention to the small actions that are not right establish
those habits in the youth.—
The Review and Herald, May 17, 1898
.
(
Child Guidance, 201
.)
Action Derives Quality From Motive—Every action derives its
quality from the motive which prompts it, and if the motives are not
high and pure and unselfish, the mind and character will never become
well balanced.—
The Youth’s Instructor, April 7, 1898
. (
Sons and
Daughters of God, 171
.)
Motives Give Character to Acts—It is the motive that gives char-
acter to our acts, stamping them with ignominy or with high moral
worth. Not the great things which every eye sees and every tongue
praises does God account most precious. The little duties cheerfully
done, the little gifts which make no show, and which to human eyes
may appear worthless, often stand highest in His sight. A heart of faith