Prayer and Promises

THE PROMISE 

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

— Romans 5:4, NIV 

THE TESTIMONY 

It may seem that the teaching of God’s word has but little effect upon many minds and hearts; but if the teacher’s work has been wrought in God, some lessons of divine truth will linger in the memory of even the most careless. The Holy Spirit will water the seed sown, and often it will spring up after many days and bear fruit to the glory of God. 

The Great Teacher who came down from heaven has not directed teachers to study any of the reputedly great authors. He says: “Come unto Me... Learn of Me... and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:28, 29. Christ has promised, and in learning lessons of Him we shall find rest. 

Those who make the word of God their study, those who dig for the treasures of truth, will themselves become imbued with the Spirit of Christ, and by beholding they will become changed into His likeness. Those who appreciate the word will teach as disciples who have been sitting at the feet of Jesus and have accustomed themselves to learn of Him. 

The word of the eternal God is our guide. Through this word we have been made wise unto salvation. This word is ever to be in our hearts and on our lips. “It is written” is to be our anchor. Those who make God’s word their counselor realize the weakness of the human heart and the power of the grace of God to subdue every unsanctified, unholy impulse. Their hearts are ever prayerful, and they have the guardianship of holy angels. When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of God lifts up for them a standard against him. There is harmony in the heart; for the precious, powerful influences of truth bear sway. 

Pray that you may be born again. If you have this new birth you will delight yourself, not in the crooked ways of your own desires, but in the Lord. You will desire to be under His authority. You will strive constantly to reach a higher standard. Be not only Bible readers, but earnest Bible students. 

— Testimonies for the Church Volume 6, p.159-161 

THE RESPONSE 

Make the word of God your study seeking to become imbued with the Spirit of Christ. Appreciate the word, sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him. 

Take the word of the eternal God as your guide. His word is ever to be in your heart and on your lips. “It is written” is to be your anchor.

Make God’s word Your counselor and seek the power of the grace of God to subdue every unsanctified, unholy impulse. Keep your heart ever prayerful. 

Pray that you may be born again. Desire to be under His authority. Be an earnest Bible student that you may have an experimental knowledge of how to do His will.