TDG 15.2, 24.5, 332.5, 369
(This Day With God 15.2, 24.5, 332.5, 369)
Let us in our lifework strive constantly to answer the prayer of Christ, that we may be united with one another and with Him. Let us always before undertaking anything, ask ourselves the question, “Will this please my Saviour? Is it in harmony with the will of God?” The consciousness that we are bringing the Christ-life into the daily experience will give a sacred dignity to the everyday duties. All that we do will be done with faithfulness, that the Master may be honored. Thus shall we show to the world what Christianity can accomplish for sinful human beings, giving them constantly increasing efficiency for service in this life, preparing them for the higher life in the world to come.—Manuscript 1, January 7, 1903, “An Appeal.” (TDG 15.2) MC VC
Let us remember that doubts are dangerous. If entertained, they lead to unbelief.... All our people need now to seek for the impartation of the Holy Spirit. Enter into no contention, but put away dissension and strife, and seek to answer the prayer recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John. I beg of you to pray, pray, with heart and soul and voice.—Letter 58, January 16, 1906, to Brethren Washburn, Prescott, Daniells, Colcord. (TDG 24.5) MC VC
Christians are to love one another, as Christ has loved them. Upon the manifestation of this love hinges the world’s recognition of the truth of the gospel. It was for this that Christ prayed in the last prayer He offered. Christians must not act like unruly children. Before the world those who claim to be God’s children must give evidence that they have left behind them the childish ways of their unconverted life.—Letter 179, November 19, 1902, to C. P. Bollman, editor of the Southern Watchman, published in Nashville, Tennessee. (TDG 332.5) MC VC
Unity, December 26 VC
I therefore...beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3. (TDG 369.1) MC VC
Read the prayer that Christ offered for His people just before His trial and crucifixion. Christ in His human nature suffered disappointment and trials. When I read in the Bible of how many refused to believe that Christ was the Son of God, sadness fills my heart. We read that even His own brethren refused to believe in Him. (TDG 369.2) MC VC
We must present an unbroken front in union and in faith. We must be strong in the Lord and in the power of His grace.... It is through disunion that the enemy comes in and sows his seed. We need the truth on every point. We need less of our own words and more of the Word of God. We are near the close of time, and we cannot afford to make a mistake. Truth will bear away the victory. We must “love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous” (1 Peter 3:8). We must practice Christian politeness. A soft answer to cruel thrusts turns away wrath.... (TDG 369.3) MC VC
Christ is wounded by the differences that are so easily created and brought to the front. Turn to the seventeenth chapter of John, and read the prayer of Christ, His entreaty that His disciples may be one as He is one with the Father. We greatly dishonor God when we regard it as a light matter to make our differences apparent. This is sure to weaken our own souls and the souls of others.... (TDG 369.4) MC VC
When we bring in our own ideas and opinions, we mislead others. Attach importance to a plain “Thus saith the Lord,” and then you will be laborers together with Christ. (TDG 369.5) MC VC
“Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour” (Ephesians 5:1, 2). What grand and comprehensive truths are shining from the Word of God, molding hearts and minds after Christ’s order. In the night season I heard these words spoken to companies, by the divine Teacher: “Blend your plans. Let there be no variance among you.” ... (TDG 369.6) MC VC
I would say to you, my brother, Look up. Talk faith and hope. Do not look at the dark side. Let praise and songs of hope be in your heart and on your lips.—Letter 398, December 26, 1906, to Dr. and Mrs. D. H. Kress. (TDG 369.7) MC VC