Prayer and Promises

THE PROMISE

Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

— 2 Corinthians 7:1, NIV

THE TESTIMONY 

You must individually battle against the world, the flesh, and the Devil. The word of God is called “the sword of the Spirit,” and you should become skillful in its use, if you would cut your way through the hosts of opposition and darkness. 

Wrench yourself away from hurtful associations. Count the cost of following Jesus, and make it, with a determined purpose to cleanse yourselves form all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. Eternal life is worth your all, and Jesus has said, “Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.” He who does nothing but wait to be compelled by some super-natural agency, will wait on in lethargy and darkness. God has given his word... The word of God is like a treasure-house, containing everything that is essential to perfect the man of God. We do not appreciate the Bible as we should. We do not have a proper estimate of the richness of its stores, nor do we realize the great necessity of searching the Scriptures for ourselves.

Those who humbly and prayerfully search the Scriptures, to know and to do God’s will, will not be in doubt of their obligations to God. For “if any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine.” If you would know the mystery of godliness, you must follow the plain word of truth,—feeling or no feeling, emotion or no emotion. Obedience must be rendered from a sense of principle, and the right must be pursued under all circumstances. This is the character that is elected of God unto salvation. The test of a genuine Christian is given in the word of God. Says Jesus, “... If a man love me he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him...” 

Drink deep of the well of salvation. Go to the fountain for yourself, that you may be filled with refreshment, that Jesus may be in you a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life. Only Bible truth and Bible religion will stand the test of the judgment. We are not to pervert the word of God to suit our convenience and worldly interest, but to honestly inquire, “What wilt thou have me to do?” 

— The Review and Herald, July 17, 1888

THE RESPONSE 

Oh my Father, I counted the cost and fully commit in following You. I claim Your promises, cleanse me from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. Lord, what will You have me to do? I seek Your will, not my own selfish will. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit as I search the Scriptures that I may know You and become skillful in the battle against the flesh. I love You and am grateful for You promise to come to me and make Your abode with me!