Diligence
83
Many Might Be Intellectual Giants—Many of our laborers
might today be intellectual giants had they not been content to meet
a low level but been diligent and let their thoughts and investigations
plow deep. Many of our young people are in danger of being su-
perficial, of failing to grow up to the full stature of men and women
in Christ Jesus. They consider that they have a sufficient degree of
knowledge and understanding of subjects, and if they do not love study
they will not plow deep to obtain all the treasures possible for them to
acquire.—
Letter 33, 1886
Self-discipline Necessary—God requires the training of the men-
tal faculties. They need to be so cultivated that we can, if necessary,
[102]
set the truth before the highest earthly powers to the glory of God. The
converting power of God upon heart and character is also needed every
day. Self-discipline must be carried on by everyone who claims to be
a child of God; for it is in this way that the mind and will are brought
into subjection to the mind and will of God. Decided discipline in the
cause of the Lord will accomplish more than eloquence and the most
brilliant talents. An ordinary mind, well trained, will accomplish more
and higher work than the most educated mind and the greatest talents,
without self-control.—
The Review and Herald, July 28, 1896
.
Angels Take Hold of Reasoning Minds—The heavenly angels
are ... at work to take hold of reasoning minds, and their power is
mightier than the hosts of darkness. There are minds dealing with
sacred things who are not in close connection with God and who do not
discern the Spirit of God. Unless His grace transforms them into the
image of Christ’s likeness, His Spirit will leave them as water leaves
a leaky vessel. Their only hope is to seek God with all their mind,
heart, and soul. Then they will lawfully strive for the mastery. Satan
will steal the imagination and affections if you give him a chance.—
Manuscript 11, 1893.
Highest Sanctified Ambition Demanded—“My grace is suffi-
cient for thee” (
2 Corinthians 12:9
) is the assurance of the Great
Teacher. Catch the inspiration of the words, and never, never talk
doubt and unbelief. Be energetic. There is no half-and-half service in
pure and undefiled religion. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with
all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all
thy strength” (
Mark 12:30
). The very highest sanctified ambition is de-
manded of those who believe the Word of God.—
Special Testimonies