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Counsels for the Church
Just as soon as we realize our inability to do God’s work and submit
to be guided by His wisdom, the Lord can work with us. If we will
empty the soul of self, He will supply all our necessities
Counsel to Those Who Seek Assurance of God’s Acceptance
How are you to know that you are accepted of God? Study His
word prayerfully. Lay it not aside for any other book. This Book
convinces of sin. It plainly reveals the way of salvation. It brings
to view a bright and glorious reward. It reveals to you a complete
Saviour, and teaches you that through His boundless mercy alone can
you expect salvation. Do not neglect secret prayer, for it is the soul of
religion. With earnest, fervent prayer, plead for purity of soul. Plead as
earnestly, as eagerly, as you would for your mortal life, were it at stake.
Remain before God until unutterable longings are begotten within you
for salvation, and the sweet evidence is obtained of pardoned sin
Jesus has not left you to be amazed at the trials and difficulties you
meet. He has told you all about them, and He has told you also not
to be cast down and oppressed when trials come. Look to Jesus, your
Redeemer, and be cheerful and rejoice. The trials hardest to bear are
those that come from our brethren, our own familiar friends; but even
these trials may be borne with patience. Jesus is not lying in Joseph’s
new tomb. He has risen and has ascended to heaven, there to intercede
in our behalf. We have a Saviour who so loved us that He died for us,
that through Him we might have hope and strength and courage, and a
place with Him upon His throne. He is able and willing to help you
whenever you call upon Him.
Do you feel your insufficiency for the position of trust that you
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occupy? Thank God for this. The more you feel your weakness, the
more you will be inclined to seek for a helper. “Draw nigh to God, and
He will draw nigh to you.”
James 4:8
. Jesus wants you to be happy, to
be cheerful. He wants you to do your best with the ability that God
has given you and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those
who will be your helpers in carrying burdens.
Let not the unkind speeches of men hurt you. Did not men say
unkind things about Jesus? You err, and may sometimes give occasion
24
Testimonies for the Church 7:213
25
Testimonies for the Church 1:163