Basic HTML Version
88
Early Writings
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.
[74]