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Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
draw sap and nourishment from the Living Vine; for separated from
the Vine, we have no strength.
I asked the angel why there was no more faith and power in Israel.
He said: “Ye let go of the arm of the Lord too soon. Press your
petitions to the throne, and hold on by strong faith. The promises are
sure. Believe ye receive the things ye ask for, and ye shall have them.”
I was then pointed to Elijah. He was subject to like passions as we are,
and he prayed earnestly. His faith endured the trial. Seven times he
prayed before the Lord, and at last the cloud was seen.
I saw that we had doubted the sure promises, and wounded the
Saviour by our lack of faith. Said the angel, “Gird the armor about thee,
and above all take the shield of faith; for that will guard the heart, the
very life, from the fiery darts of the wicked.” If the enemy can lead the
desponding to take their eyes off from Jesus, and look to themselves,
and dwell upon their own unworthiness, instead of dwelling upon the
worthiness of Jesus, His love, His merits, and His great mercy, he will
get away their shield of faith, and gain his object; they will be exposed
to his fiery temptations. The weak should therefore look to Jesus, and
believe in Him; they then exercise faith.
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