Submission and Faith
[
Testimonies for the Church 2:146-149
(1868).]
In such cases of affliction, where Satan has control of the mind,
before engaging in prayer there should be the closest self-examination
to discover if there are not sins which need to be repented of, confessed,
and forsaken. Deep humility of soul before God is necessary, and firm,
humble reliance upon the merits of the blood of Christ alone. Fasting
and prayer will accomplish nothing while the heart is estranged from
God by a wrong course of action. Read
Isaiah 58:6, 7, 9-11
.
It is heart work that the Lord requires, good works springing from
a heart filled with love. All should carefully and prayerfully ... in-
vestigate their motives and actions. The promise of God to us is on
condition of obedience, compliance with all His requirements. Read
Isaiah 58:1-3
....
Faith and Calmness
I was shown that in case of sickness, where the way is clear for
the offering up of prayer for the sick, the case should be committed
to the Lord in calm faith, not with a storm of excitement. He alone
is acquainted with the past life of the individual and knows what his
future will be. He who is acquainted with the hearts of all men knows
whether the person, if raised up, would glorify His name or dishonor
Him by backsliding and apostasy. All that we are required to do is to
ask God to raise the sick up if in accordance with His will, believing
that He hears the reasons which we present and the fervent prayers
offered. If the Lord sees it will best honor Him, He will answer our
prayers. But to urge recovery without submission to His will is not
right.
[378]
What God promises He is able at any time to perform, and the
work which He gives His people to do He is able to accomplish by
them. If they will live according to every word He has spoken, every
good word and promise will be fulfilled unto them. But if they come
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