Prayer and Promises

THE PROMISE 

My sheep hear My voice, I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish — ever! No one will snatch them out of My hand.

—John 10:27,28, HCSB 

THE TESTIMONY 

Young men and young women will often be brought into positions where they are uncertain what to do. Their inclination leads them in one direction, and the Holy Spirit of God draws them in another direction. Satan presses his temptation upon them, and urges them to follow the inclinations of the natural heart. But those who desire to be true to Christ, will listen to the voice that says, “This is the way, walk ye in it.” They will decide to take the course of the righteous, although it is more difficult to pursue, more painful to follow, than the way of their own heart. But they will also realize the fulfillment of the promise: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” 

He whose mind is opened to the word of God, will prayerfully consider every way of his feet, so that he may honor God, and keep the way of the Lord. He will remember that “even Christ pleased not himself,” and he will consider it a great privilege to follow in His steps. He will take his perplexities to God in prayer, and ask the guidance of him whose property he is. He will realize that he belongs to God, soul, body, mind, and strength. 

Let those who are perplexed with temptation, go to God in prayer. The Lord says: “Ask, and it shall be given you...” The promises of God are unfailing. The word of God is not yea and nay; but yea and Amen in Christ Jesus. Persevere in prayer, and watch thereunto without doubting, and the Holy Spirit will work in the human agent, bringing heart and mind into subjection to right principles. Repeat over and over the promise, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.” When tempted, fasten your faith firmly upon the promise of God, and thank him for the grace and mercy that he has so freely bestowed. 

— The Youth’s Instructor, September 19, 1895

THE RESPONSE 

Dear Lord, I trust You with all my heart. I no longer trust in my own understanding. I pray that my choices may honor You. May Your Holy Spirit bring my heart and mind into subjection to Your righteous principles. Thank for the grace and mercy You so freely bestow. Thank You for the promise that says, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” I claim the unfailing promises in Your word for they are Yes and Amen in Christ Jesus!