Prayer and Promises

— 2 Corinthians 10:4,5, HCSB 

“Search the Scriptures,” said the heavenly Teacher. He knew that this was necessary for all in order for them to become Christ’s true followers. You love to read storybooks, but do not find the word of God interesting. You should restrict your reading to the word of God and to books that are of a spiritual and useful character. In so doing you will close a door against temptation, and you will be blessed. 

You may think that there can be no sin in permitting your thoughts to run as they naturally would without restraint. But this is not so. You are responsible to God for the indulgence of vain thoughts; for from vain imaginations arises the committal of sins, the actual doing of those things upon which the mind has dwelt. Govern your thoughts, and it will then be much easier to govern your actions. 

God has made provisions for you that are ample. He has provided that if you comply with the conditions laid down in His word, and separate from the world, you may receive strength from Him to repress every debasing influence and to develop that which is noble, good, and elevating. 

“...whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” Here is a principle which lies at the foundation of every act, thought, and motive; the consecration of the entire being, both physical and mental, to the control of the Spirit of God. The unsanctified will and passions must be crucified. This may be regarded as a close and severe work. Yet it must be done... You can do all things through Christ, who strengtheneth you. 

Satan has alluring charms to engage the interest and excite the imagination of the youth in particular, that he may fasten them in his snare. You are building upon the sand. You need to cry earnestly: “O Lord, my inmost soul convert.” 

May the God of peace sanctify you wholly, soul, body and spirit. 

— Testimonies for the Church, Volume 3, p.81-84 

You will be blessed and close a door against temptation as you restrict your reading to the word of God and to books that are of a spiritual and useful character. 

Govern your thoughts and it will then be much easier to govern your actions. 

Consecrate the entire being, both physical and mental, to the control of the Spirit of God. Crucify the passions through Christ, who strengtheneth you. 

Cry earnestly: “O Lord, my inmost soul convert.” May the God of peace sanctify you wholly, soul, body and spirit.