Prayer and Promises

THE PROMISE

That you put off the former way of life in the old nature... and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that you put on the new nature, which was created according to God in righteousness and true holiness. 

— Ephesians 4:22-24, MEV

THE TESTIMONY

Can you look back upon your course through the past year with sweet satisfaction?  

The new year has commenced, and with the commencement of this new year, you should dedicate yourselves to God. Now give yourself to him, soul, body, and spirit, to do his will. Let all selfishness...and besetting sins die with the old year. 

Begin this new year to the glory of God. Pray to him, morning, noon, and night, to give you a meek and humble spirit, a mild temper, an affectionate disposition. Live as you never lived before. Begin this new year with new feelings, fresh desires, and a strong determination to glorify God. 

This year can be the happiest year of your life; you can do more good to others than you have ever yet done. You can be a comfort...and a blessing to all around you. Commence the year aright, by devoting yourself to God. Spend a portion of your time each day in praying to him for strength, that you may resist evil, and every day overcome, until it will be easy praying, easy believing. 

Let your thoughts dwell upon things of earth less, and upon heaven more. When you are with your associates, talk about Jesus instead of dress and appearance, Do you love Jesus? If you do you will love to talk about him. Do you love his appearing? If you do, you will love to dwell upon it. 

If you love Jesus, your lives will be marked with that love. You will show it. You will not be passionate, evil-tempered, or disobedient.

You must watch and pray, and the Lord will help you to overcome. Do not neglect your precious Bible. My heart aches as I realize how...some who profess to love God, often love story-books, and idle tales, more than the word of God. 

Dear children, look to your eternal interest. Love what God loves, and have your thoughts tending heaven-ward. O, do not let the mind be filled with earth, vanity and pride, You will have trials, but go to Jesus for patience and strength that you may hold the victory. Let your trust be fully in God. 

— Youth Instructor, January 1, 1856 

THE RESPONSE

With the commencement of this new year, dedicate yourself to God. Give yourself to Him soul, body and spirit to do His will.

Pray to Him morning, noon and night to give you a gentle and humble spirit, a mild temper, an affectionate disposition.

Spend a portion of time each day in praying to Him for strength that you may resist evil and every day overcome.

When you have trials go to Jesus for patience and strength. Let your trust be fully in God.