Prayer and Promises

THE PROMISE 

For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy...every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.

— 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, ESV 

THE TESTIMONY 

Many who are sincerely seeking for holiness of heart and purity of life are perplexed and discouraged. They are constantly looking to themselves, and lamenting their lack of faith; and because of this lack, they feel that they cannot claim the blessing of God. These persons mistake feeling for faith. 

Instead of thinking of self, they should train their minds to dwell upon the mercy and goodness of God. They should recount his promises, believing that he will fulfill his word. When we repent of our past transgressions of his law, and resolve to render obedience in the future, we should believe that God for Christ’s sake accepts us, and forgives our sins. 

When the mind has been long permitted to dwell only on earthly things, it is a difficult matter to change the habits of thought. That which the eye sees and the ear hears, too often attracts the attention and absorbs the interest. But if we would enter the city of God, and look upon Jesus in his glory, we must become accustomed to beholding him with the eye of faith here. The words and character of Christ should be often the subject of our thoughts and our conversation; and each day some time should be especially devoted to prayerful meditation upon these sacred themes. 

If we would permit our minds to dwell more upon Christ and the heavenly world, we should find a powerful stimulus and support in our warfare against sin... Pride and love of the world will lose their power as we contemplate the infinite love of Christ, and the glories of that better land so soon to be our home. 

Be not discouraged because your heart seems hard. Every obstacle, every internal foe, only increases your need of Christ. He came to take away the heart of stone, and give you a heart of flesh. Look to him for grace to overcome your special faults, to put away every darling sin. 

Human weakness becomes united to divine strength, and faith exclaims, “Thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 

— Signs of the Times, June 19, 1884

THE RESPONSE 

Train your mind to dwell on the mercy and goodness of God. Recount His promises believing that He will fulfill His word.

Repent of your past transgressions and resolve to render obedience in the future, believe that God for Christ’s sake accepts you and forgives your sins. 

Each day spend time devoted to prayerful meditation on the words and character of Christ. 

Unite your weakness with His divine strength. In faith exclaim, “Thanks be to God, who gives me the victory through my Lord Jesus Christ.”