When we present God's holy law,
And arguments from scripture draw;
Objectors say, to pick a flaw,
"It's Jewish."
Though at the first Jehovah blessed
And sanctified HIS day of rest;
The same belief is still expressed -
"It's Jewish."
Though with the world this rest began,
And thence through all the scriptures ran,
And Jesus said 'twas made for man -
"It's Jewish."
Though not with Jewish rites, which passed,
But with the moral law 'twas classed
Which must endure while time shall last -
"It's Jewish."
Though the disciples, Luke and Paul,
Continue still this rest to call
The "Sabbath day," this answers all -
"It's Jewish."
The gospel teachers' plain expression,
That "Sin is of the law transgression,"
Seems not to make the least impression -
"It's Jewish."
They love the rest of man's invention,
But if Jehovah's day we mention,
This puts an end to all contention -
"It's Jewish."
O ye who thus Gods day abuse,
Simply because twas kept by Jews,
The Saviour, too, you must refuse -
He's Jewish.
Thus the apostles, too, must fall;
For Andrew, Peter, James, and Paul,
And Thomas, Matthew, John, and all
Were Jewish.
But when old Earth shall pass away,
And be renewed the Sabbath day
Honored by all - one then will say,
"Its Jewish."
And while Eternitys glad days
Roll on and on with ceaseless rays,
The theme will be Jehovah's praise,
And that in universal lays -
Not Jewish.
BY ROSWELL F. COTTRELL. (January 17, 1814 – March 22, 1892)
Monday 29 December 2014
Friday 28 November 2014
Dare To Stand Alone
It is human to stand with the crowd; it is divine to stand alone.
It is manlike to follow the people, to drift with the tide; it is godlike to follow a principle, to stem the tide.
It is natural to compromise conscience and follow the social and religious fashion for the sake of gain or pleasure; it is divine to sacrifice both on the altar of truth and duty.
“No man stood with me, but all men forsook me,” wrote the battle-scarred apostle in describing his first appearance before Nero to answer for his life for believing and teaching contrary to the Roman world.
Noah built and voyaged alone. His neighbors laughed at his strangeness, and perished.
Abraham wandered and worshiped alone. The Sodomites smiled at the simple shepherd, followed the fashion, and fed the flames.
Daniel dined and prayed alone. Elijah sacrificed and witnessed alone. Jeremiah prophesied and wept alone. Jesus loved and died alone.
And of the lonely way his disciples should walk he said, “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Of their treatment by the many who walk in the broad way he said, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world,…therefore the world hateth you.”
The church in the wilderness praised Abraham and persecuted Moses. The church of the Kings praised Moses and persecuted the prophets. The church of Caiaphas praised the prophets and persecuted Jesus. The church of the popes praised the Saviour, and persecuted the saints. And multitudes now, in both the church and the world, applaud the courage and fortitude of the patriarchs and prophets, the apostles and martyrs, but condemn as stubbornness or foolishness like faithfulness to truth to-day.
Wanted, to-day, men and women, young and old, who will obey their convictions of truth and duty at the cost of fortune and friends and life itself!
It is manlike to follow the people, to drift with the tide; it is godlike to follow a principle, to stem the tide.
It is natural to compromise conscience and follow the social and religious fashion for the sake of gain or pleasure; it is divine to sacrifice both on the altar of truth and duty.
“No man stood with me, but all men forsook me,” wrote the battle-scarred apostle in describing his first appearance before Nero to answer for his life for believing and teaching contrary to the Roman world.
Noah built and voyaged alone. His neighbors laughed at his strangeness, and perished.
Abraham wandered and worshiped alone. The Sodomites smiled at the simple shepherd, followed the fashion, and fed the flames.
Daniel dined and prayed alone. Elijah sacrificed and witnessed alone. Jeremiah prophesied and wept alone. Jesus loved and died alone.
And of the lonely way his disciples should walk he said, “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
Of their treatment by the many who walk in the broad way he said, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world,…therefore the world hateth you.”
The church in the wilderness praised Abraham and persecuted Moses. The church of the Kings praised Moses and persecuted the prophets. The church of Caiaphas praised the prophets and persecuted Jesus. The church of the popes praised the Saviour, and persecuted the saints. And multitudes now, in both the church and the world, applaud the courage and fortitude of the patriarchs and prophets, the apostles and martyrs, but condemn as stubbornness or foolishness like faithfulness to truth to-day.
Wanted, to-day, men and women, young and old, who will obey their convictions of truth and duty at the cost of fortune and friends and life itself!
Thursday 20 November 2014
THE CHURCH AND THE WORLD
The Church and the World walked far apart
On the changing shore of Time;
The world was singing a giddy song,
And the Church a hymn sublime.
"Come, give me your hand," cried the merry World,
"And walk with me this way;"
But the good Church hid her snowy hands,
And solemnly answered, "Nay;
I will not give you my hand at all,
And I will not walk with you;
Your way is the way to endless death;
Your words are all untrue."
"Nay, walk with me but a little space,"
Said the World with a kindly air;
"The road I walk is a pleasant road,
And the sun shines always there.
Your path is thorny, and rough, and rude,
And mine is broad and plain;
My road is paved with flowers and dews
And yours with tears and pain.
The sky above me is always blue;
No want, no toil, I know:
The sky above you is always dark,
Your lot is a lot of woe.
My path, you see, is a broad, fair one
And my gate is high and wide;
There is room enough for you and for me
To travel side by side."
Half shyly the Church approached the World,
And gave him her hand of snow;
The old World quick grasped it and walked along,
Saying in accents low;
"Your dress is too simple to please my taste;
I will give you pearls to wear,
Rich velvets and silks for your graceful form,
And diamonds to deck your hair."
The Church looked down at her plain white robes
And then at the dazzling World,
And blushed as she saw his handsome lip
With a smile contemptuous curled..
"I will change my dress for a costlier one,"
Said the Church with a smile of grace:
Then the pure white garments drifted away,
And the World gave in their place
Beautiful silks and shining satins,
And roses and gems and pearls,
And over her forehead her bright hair fell,
Crisped in a thousand curls.
"Your house is too plain," said the proud old World;
"I’ll build you one like mine,
Carpets of Brussels, and curtains of lace
And furniture ever so fine."
So he built her a costly and beautiful house,
Splendid it was to behold;
Her sons and her beautiful daughters dwelt there,
Gleaming in purple and gold;
And fairs and shows in the halls were held,
And the World and his children were there;
And laughter and music and feasts were heard
In the place that was meant for prayer.
She had cushioned pews for the rich and great
To sit in their pomp and pride;
While the poor folk, clad in their shabby suits,
Sat meekly down outside.
The Angel of Mercy flew over the Church,
And whispered, "I know thy sin:"
Then the Church looked back with a sigh and longed
To gather her children in;
But some were off at the midnight ball,
And some were off at the play,
And some were drinking in gay saloons,
So she quietly went her way.
Then the sly World gallantly said to her:
"Your children mean no harm,
Merely indulging in innocent sports;"
So she leaned on his proffered arm
And smiled and chatted and gathered flowers
As she walked along with the World;
While millions and millions of sorrowing souls
To eternal death were hurled.
"Your preachers are all too old and plain,"
Said the World to the Church with a sneer
"They frighten my children with dreadful tales,
Which I like not for them to hear.
They talk of brimstone and fire and pain
And the night of an endless death;
They talk of a place which may only be
Mentioned with bated breath.
I will send you some of the better stamp,
Brilliant and gay and fast,
Who will tell them that people may live as they choose
And go to heaven at last.
The Father is merciful, great and good,
Tender and true and kind;
Do you think he would take one child to heaven,
And leave the other behind?"
So he filled her house with gay divines,
Gifted and great and learned,
And the plain old men that preached the cross
Were out of her pulpits turned.
"You give too much to the poor," said the world,
"Far more than you ought to do;
If the poor need shelter and food and clothes,
Why need it trouble you?
Go, take your money and buy rich robes,
And horses and carriages fine,
And pearls and jewels and dainty foods,
And the rarest and costliest wine!
My children, they dote on all such things;
And if you their love would win,
You must do as they do and walk in the ways
That they are walking in."
Then the Church held tightly the strings of her purse
And gracefully lowered her head,
And whispered, "I've given too much away;
I'll do, sir, as you have said."
So the poor were turned from her door in scorn,
And she drew her robes aside
As the widows went weeping on their way;
With all their needs denied,
And the sons of the world and the sons of the church
Walked closely hand and heart,
And only the Master who knoweth all
Could tell the two apart.
Then the Church sat down at her ease, and said,
"I am rich, and with goods increased;
I have need of nothing, and naught to do
But to laugh and dance and feast."
And the sly World heard her and laughed up his sleeve,
And mockingly said aside;
"The Church is fallen, the beautiful Church
And her shame is her boast and pride."
The angel drew near to the mercy-seat,
And whispered in sighs her name,
And the saints their anthems of rapture hushed,
And covered their heads with shame.
Then a voice came down through the hush of heaven
From Him who sat on the throne:
"I know thy works, and how thou has said,
'I am rich,' and hast not known
That thou art naked, and poor, and blind,
And wretched before my face.
Unless thou repent I will cast thee out
And blot thy name from its place.
I counsel thee to buy of Me
The gold that will make you rich;
And anoint your eyes with the heavenly salve
To discern your Maker's wish."
Then the awakened Church with deep regret
From her worldly course returned;
She opened her heart to the knock of Christ
As His love in her bosom burned.
And gave her robes and forgave her sins,
And together they sat and supped;
His proffered throne He shared with her
For whom He had suffered much.
O Church of Christ, hear the Spirit's voice
As He calls through the world today.
Would that every church throughout the realm
Would turn from the world away.
The world will be lost in eternal night,
But the penitent saved for aye.
On the changing shore of Time;
The world was singing a giddy song,
And the Church a hymn sublime.
"Come, give me your hand," cried the merry World,
"And walk with me this way;"
But the good Church hid her snowy hands,
And solemnly answered, "Nay;
I will not give you my hand at all,
And I will not walk with you;
Your way is the way to endless death;
Your words are all untrue."
"Nay, walk with me but a little space,"
Said the World with a kindly air;
"The road I walk is a pleasant road,
And the sun shines always there.
Your path is thorny, and rough, and rude,
And mine is broad and plain;
My road is paved with flowers and dews
And yours with tears and pain.
The sky above me is always blue;
No want, no toil, I know:
The sky above you is always dark,
Your lot is a lot of woe.
My path, you see, is a broad, fair one
And my gate is high and wide;
There is room enough for you and for me
To travel side by side."
Half shyly the Church approached the World,
And gave him her hand of snow;
The old World quick grasped it and walked along,
Saying in accents low;
"Your dress is too simple to please my taste;
I will give you pearls to wear,
Rich velvets and silks for your graceful form,
And diamonds to deck your hair."
The Church looked down at her plain white robes
And then at the dazzling World,
And blushed as she saw his handsome lip
With a smile contemptuous curled..
"I will change my dress for a costlier one,"
Said the Church with a smile of grace:
Then the pure white garments drifted away,
And the World gave in their place
Beautiful silks and shining satins,
And roses and gems and pearls,
And over her forehead her bright hair fell,
Crisped in a thousand curls.
"Your house is too plain," said the proud old World;
"I’ll build you one like mine,
Carpets of Brussels, and curtains of lace
And furniture ever so fine."
So he built her a costly and beautiful house,
Splendid it was to behold;
Her sons and her beautiful daughters dwelt there,
Gleaming in purple and gold;
And fairs and shows in the halls were held,
And the World and his children were there;
And laughter and music and feasts were heard
In the place that was meant for prayer.
She had cushioned pews for the rich and great
To sit in their pomp and pride;
While the poor folk, clad in their shabby suits,
Sat meekly down outside.
The Angel of Mercy flew over the Church,
And whispered, "I know thy sin:"
Then the Church looked back with a sigh and longed
To gather her children in;
But some were off at the midnight ball,
And some were off at the play,
And some were drinking in gay saloons,
So she quietly went her way.
Then the sly World gallantly said to her:
"Your children mean no harm,
Merely indulging in innocent sports;"
So she leaned on his proffered arm
And smiled and chatted and gathered flowers
As she walked along with the World;
While millions and millions of sorrowing souls
To eternal death were hurled.
"Your preachers are all too old and plain,"
Said the World to the Church with a sneer
"They frighten my children with dreadful tales,
Which I like not for them to hear.
They talk of brimstone and fire and pain
And the night of an endless death;
They talk of a place which may only be
Mentioned with bated breath.
I will send you some of the better stamp,
Brilliant and gay and fast,
Who will tell them that people may live as they choose
And go to heaven at last.
The Father is merciful, great and good,
Tender and true and kind;
Do you think he would take one child to heaven,
And leave the other behind?"
So he filled her house with gay divines,
Gifted and great and learned,
And the plain old men that preached the cross
Were out of her pulpits turned.
"You give too much to the poor," said the world,
"Far more than you ought to do;
If the poor need shelter and food and clothes,
Why need it trouble you?
Go, take your money and buy rich robes,
And horses and carriages fine,
And pearls and jewels and dainty foods,
And the rarest and costliest wine!
My children, they dote on all such things;
And if you their love would win,
You must do as they do and walk in the ways
That they are walking in."
Then the Church held tightly the strings of her purse
And gracefully lowered her head,
And whispered, "I've given too much away;
I'll do, sir, as you have said."
So the poor were turned from her door in scorn,
And she drew her robes aside
As the widows went weeping on their way;
With all their needs denied,
And the sons of the world and the sons of the church
Walked closely hand and heart,
And only the Master who knoweth all
Could tell the two apart.
Then the Church sat down at her ease, and said,
"I am rich, and with goods increased;
I have need of nothing, and naught to do
But to laugh and dance and feast."
And the sly World heard her and laughed up his sleeve,
And mockingly said aside;
"The Church is fallen, the beautiful Church
And her shame is her boast and pride."
The angel drew near to the mercy-seat,
And whispered in sighs her name,
And the saints their anthems of rapture hushed,
And covered their heads with shame.
Then a voice came down through the hush of heaven
From Him who sat on the throne:
"I know thy works, and how thou has said,
'I am rich,' and hast not known
That thou art naked, and poor, and blind,
And wretched before my face.
Unless thou repent I will cast thee out
And blot thy name from its place.
I counsel thee to buy of Me
The gold that will make you rich;
And anoint your eyes with the heavenly salve
To discern your Maker's wish."
Then the awakened Church with deep regret
From her worldly course returned;
She opened her heart to the knock of Christ
As His love in her bosom burned.
And gave her robes and forgave her sins,
And together they sat and supped;
His proffered throne He shared with her
For whom He had suffered much.
O Church of Christ, hear the Spirit's voice
As He calls through the world today.
Would that every church throughout the realm
Would turn from the world away.
The world will be lost in eternal night,
But the penitent saved for aye.
Saturday 15 November 2014
The Good Shepherd's Appeal
I WILL seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away." Eze.xxxiv,16
"Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matt.xi,28.
Why, O man, hast thou left me?
Why hast thou turned from Him that loved thee?
Why hast thou again joined thyself to thy enemy?
Remember that for thy sake I became flesh.
Remember that for thy sake I became poor.
Remember that for thy sake I was persecuted.
Remember that for thy sake I bore evil-speaking, reproaches, angry words, dishonor, wounds, spitting, blows, mockings, and bitter sufferings.
Remember that for thy sake I suffered a cruel death.
I was made low to exalt thee.
I was made poor to enrich thee.
I was dishonored to bring glory upon thee.
I was wounded to heal thee. I died that thou mightest have life.
Thou didst sin, and I took thy sin upon Myself.
Thou wast condemned to death, and I died for thee.
Dost thou despise my love. Instead of love, thou givest me hatred. Thou lovest sin, and not Me.
Thou laborest for thy passions, and not for Me.
Now what dost thou find in Me deserving of thy dislike?
Dost desire good for thyself? Every good is with Me.
Dost thou desire happiness? Every blessing is with Me.
Dost thou desire dignity? Who is more noble than the Son of God?
Dost thou seek exaltation? Who is higher than the King of heaven?
Dost thou desire wealth? I have all riches.
Dost thou desire wisdom? I am wisdom.
Dost thou desire friendship? Who is more worthy of love, and more loving than I? for I laid down My life for all.
Dost thou seek help? Who can help except Me?
Dost thou seek consolation in grief? Who can console except Me?
Dost thou seek rest? Come unto Me and I will give thee rest.
Dost thou seek peace? I am the peace of the soul.
Dost thou seek light? I am the light of the world.
Dost thou seek truth? I am the truth.
Dost thou seek the way? I am the way.
Dost thou seek a guide to heaven? I am the guide.
Why dost thou not wish to come unto Me?
Dost thou not dare to come? To whom is there an easier access?
Art thou fearful of asking? Whom coming unto Me with faith have I refused? Do thy sins hinder thee? I died for sinners. Does the multitude of thy sins distress thee? In Me is abundant mercy.
-Bishop Tehon.
"Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matt.xi,28.
Why, O man, hast thou left me?
Why hast thou turned from Him that loved thee?
Why hast thou again joined thyself to thy enemy?
Remember that for thy sake I became flesh.
Remember that for thy sake I became poor.
Remember that for thy sake I was persecuted.
Remember that for thy sake I bore evil-speaking, reproaches, angry words, dishonor, wounds, spitting, blows, mockings, and bitter sufferings.
Remember that for thy sake I suffered a cruel death.
I was made low to exalt thee.
I was made poor to enrich thee.
I was dishonored to bring glory upon thee.
I was wounded to heal thee. I died that thou mightest have life.
Thou didst sin, and I took thy sin upon Myself.
Thou wast condemned to death, and I died for thee.
Dost thou despise my love. Instead of love, thou givest me hatred. Thou lovest sin, and not Me.
Thou laborest for thy passions, and not for Me.
Now what dost thou find in Me deserving of thy dislike?
Dost desire good for thyself? Every good is with Me.
Dost thou desire happiness? Every blessing is with Me.
Dost thou desire dignity? Who is more noble than the Son of God?
Dost thou seek exaltation? Who is higher than the King of heaven?
Dost thou desire wealth? I have all riches.
Dost thou desire wisdom? I am wisdom.
Dost thou desire friendship? Who is more worthy of love, and more loving than I? for I laid down My life for all.
Dost thou seek help? Who can help except Me?
Dost thou seek consolation in grief? Who can console except Me?
Dost thou seek rest? Come unto Me and I will give thee rest.
Dost thou seek peace? I am the peace of the soul.
Dost thou seek light? I am the light of the world.
Dost thou seek truth? I am the truth.
Dost thou seek the way? I am the way.
Dost thou seek a guide to heaven? I am the guide.
Why dost thou not wish to come unto Me?
Dost thou not dare to come? To whom is there an easier access?
Art thou fearful of asking? Whom coming unto Me with faith have I refused? Do thy sins hinder thee? I died for sinners. Does the multitude of thy sins distress thee? In Me is abundant mercy.
-Bishop Tehon.
Tuesday 21 October 2014
O Blessed Daniel
Speak with me, O blessed Daniel.
Give me full assurance, I beseech thee.
Thou does prophesy concerning the lioness in Babylon;
For thou was a captive there.
Thou has unfolded the future regarding the bear;
For thou was still in the world,
And did see the things come to pass.
Then thou spoke to me of the leopard;
And whence can thou know this,
For thou art already gone to thy rest?
Who instructed thee to announce these things,
But He who formed thee in (from) thy mother's womb?
That is God, thou said.
Thou has spoken indeed, and that not falsely.
The leopard has arisen;
The he-goat is come;
He hath broken his horns in pieces;
He hath stamped upon him with his feet.
He has been exalted by his fall;
The four horns have come up from under that one.
Rejoice, blessed Daniel!
Thou has not been in error:
All these things have come to pass.
After this again thou has told me of the beast dreadful and terrible.
It had iron teeth and claws of brass:
It devoured and brake in pieces,
And stamped the residue with the feet of it.'
Already the iron rules;
Already it subdues and breaks all in pieces;
Already it brings all the unwilling into subjection;
Already we see these things ourselves.
Now we glorify God, being instructed by thee."
Sunday 21 September 2014
The Mind of a godly Young Woman
No one can so effectually ruin a woman's happiness and usefulness, and make life a heartsickening burden, as her own husband; and no one can do one hundredth part as much to chill the hopes and aspirations of a man, to paralyze his energies and ruin his influence and prospects, as his own wife. It is from the marriage hour that many men and women date their success or failure in this life, and their hopes of the future life. --AH 43
Let the woman who desires a peaceful, happy union, who would escape future misery and sorrow, inquire before she yields her affections…
What has been his past record?
Is his life pure?
Is the love which he expresses of a noble, elevated character, or is it a mere emotional fondness?
Has he the traits of character that will make me happy?
Can I find true peace and joy in his affection?
Will I be allowed to preserve my individuality, or must my judgment and conscience be
surrendered to the control of him as a husband? . .
Can he honor the Saviour’s claims as supreme?
Will he preserve body and soul, thoughts and purposes, pure and holy?
Has my lover a mother?
What is the stamp of her character?
Does he recognize his obligations to her?
Is he mindful of her wishes and happiness?
If he does not respect and honor his mother, will he manifest respect and love, kindness and attention, toward me as a wife?
When the novelty of marriage is over, will he love me still?
Will he be patient with my mistakes, or will he be critical, overbearing, and dictatorial?
These questions have a vital bearing upon the well-being of every woman who enters the marriage relation.--FLB 257.
Let a young woman accept as a life companion only one who possesses pure, manly traits of character, one who is diligent, aspiring, and honest, one who loves and fears God--AH, p. 47
If you are blessed with God-fearing parents, seek counsel of them. Open to them your hopes and plans, learn the lessons which their life experiences have taught, and you will be saved many a heartache. Above all, make Christ your counselor. Study His word with prayer.--MYP 435.
Take God and your God-fearing parents into your counsel, young friends. Pray over the matter. . . . The step you are about to take is one of the most important in your life, and should not be taken hastily. While you may love, do not love blindly. --FLB 277.
Let those who are contemplating marriage weigh every sentiment and watch every development of character in the one with whom they think to unite their life destiny. Let every step toward a marriage alliance be characterized by modesty, simplicity, sincerity, and an earnest purpose to please and honor God. Marriage affects the afterlife both in this world and in the world to come. A sincere Christian will make no plans that God cannot approve. --MH 359
In business, men and women manifest great caution. Before engaging in any important enterprise, they prepare themselves for their work. Time, money, and much careful study are devoted to the subject, lest they shall make a failure in their undertaking. How much greater caution should be exercised in entering the marriage relation--a relation which affects future generations and the future life? Instead of this, it is often entered upon with jest and levity, impulse and passion, blindness and lack of calm consideration. The only explanation of this is that Satan loves to see misery and ruin in the world, and he weaves this net to entangle souls. He rejoices to have these inconsiderate persons lose their enjoyment of this world and their home in the world to come.--AH 72.
An unsanctified wife is the greatest curse that a minister can have. --Eva 677
Boys and girls enter upon the marriage relation with unripe love, immature judgment, without noble, elevated feelings, and take upon themselves the marriage vows, wholly led by their boyish, girlish passions.--AH 79.
A person's character is judged by his style of dress. A refined taste, a cultivated mind, will be revealed in the choice of simple and appropriate attire. Chaste simplicity in dress, when united with modesty of demeanor, will go far toward surrounding a young woman with that atmosphere of sacred reserve which will be to her a shield from a thousand perils.--Education, p. 248.
Young girls are forward, not modest and retiring as they once were. They engage the attention of the young men, do the courting by seeking their attention, hanging around, and talking with them. And it is a fact that the associations of the young men and women can not be encouraged without marriage being thought of and soon contracted. I write this to warn the young men and women not to be betrayed into foolish attachments which will prove their ruin in the end.--PH152 15.
Even if an engagement has been entered into without a full understanding of the character of the one with whom you intend to unite, do not think that the engagement makes it a positive necessity for you to take upon yourself the marriage vow and link yourself for life to one whom you cannot love and respect. Be very careful how you enter into conditional engagements; but better, far better, break the engagement before marriage than separate afterward, as many do. You may say, "But I have given my promise, and shall I now retract it?" I answer, If you have made a promise contrary to the Scriptures, by all means retract it without delay, and in humility before God repent of the infatuation that led you to make so rash a pledge. Far better take back such a promise, in the fear of God, than keep it, and thereby dishonor your Maker. --AH 48.
There is not one marriage in one hundred that results happily, that bears the sanction of God,
and places the parties in a position better to glorify Him.-- Testimonies vol.4 p.503
Love is a precious gift, which we receive from Jesus. Pure and holy affection is not a feeling, but a principle. Those who are actuated by true love are neither unreasonable nor blind.- MYP p.435
Love….. “rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.”-- 1 Corinthians 13:7.
Let the woman who desires a peaceful, happy union, who would escape future misery and sorrow, inquire before she yields her affections…
What has been his past record?
Is his life pure?
Is the love which he expresses of a noble, elevated character, or is it a mere emotional fondness?
Has he the traits of character that will make me happy?
Can I find true peace and joy in his affection?
Will I be allowed to preserve my individuality, or must my judgment and conscience be
surrendered to the control of him as a husband? . .
Can he honor the Saviour’s claims as supreme?
Will he preserve body and soul, thoughts and purposes, pure and holy?
Has my lover a mother?
What is the stamp of her character?
Does he recognize his obligations to her?
Is he mindful of her wishes and happiness?
If he does not respect and honor his mother, will he manifest respect and love, kindness and attention, toward me as a wife?
When the novelty of marriage is over, will he love me still?
Will he be patient with my mistakes, or will he be critical, overbearing, and dictatorial?
These questions have a vital bearing upon the well-being of every woman who enters the marriage relation.--FLB 257.
Let a young woman accept as a life companion only one who possesses pure, manly traits of character, one who is diligent, aspiring, and honest, one who loves and fears God--AH, p. 47
If you are blessed with God-fearing parents, seek counsel of them. Open to them your hopes and plans, learn the lessons which their life experiences have taught, and you will be saved many a heartache. Above all, make Christ your counselor. Study His word with prayer.--MYP 435.
Take God and your God-fearing parents into your counsel, young friends. Pray over the matter. . . . The step you are about to take is one of the most important in your life, and should not be taken hastily. While you may love, do not love blindly. --FLB 277.
Let those who are contemplating marriage weigh every sentiment and watch every development of character in the one with whom they think to unite their life destiny. Let every step toward a marriage alliance be characterized by modesty, simplicity, sincerity, and an earnest purpose to please and honor God. Marriage affects the afterlife both in this world and in the world to come. A sincere Christian will make no plans that God cannot approve. --MH 359
In business, men and women manifest great caution. Before engaging in any important enterprise, they prepare themselves for their work. Time, money, and much careful study are devoted to the subject, lest they shall make a failure in their undertaking. How much greater caution should be exercised in entering the marriage relation--a relation which affects future generations and the future life? Instead of this, it is often entered upon with jest and levity, impulse and passion, blindness and lack of calm consideration. The only explanation of this is that Satan loves to see misery and ruin in the world, and he weaves this net to entangle souls. He rejoices to have these inconsiderate persons lose their enjoyment of this world and their home in the world to come.--AH 72.
An unsanctified wife is the greatest curse that a minister can have. --Eva 677
Boys and girls enter upon the marriage relation with unripe love, immature judgment, without noble, elevated feelings, and take upon themselves the marriage vows, wholly led by their boyish, girlish passions.--AH 79.
A person's character is judged by his style of dress. A refined taste, a cultivated mind, will be revealed in the choice of simple and appropriate attire. Chaste simplicity in dress, when united with modesty of demeanor, will go far toward surrounding a young woman with that atmosphere of sacred reserve which will be to her a shield from a thousand perils.--Education, p. 248.
Young girls are forward, not modest and retiring as they once were. They engage the attention of the young men, do the courting by seeking their attention, hanging around, and talking with them. And it is a fact that the associations of the young men and women can not be encouraged without marriage being thought of and soon contracted. I write this to warn the young men and women not to be betrayed into foolish attachments which will prove their ruin in the end.--PH152 15.
Even if an engagement has been entered into without a full understanding of the character of the one with whom you intend to unite, do not think that the engagement makes it a positive necessity for you to take upon yourself the marriage vow and link yourself for life to one whom you cannot love and respect. Be very careful how you enter into conditional engagements; but better, far better, break the engagement before marriage than separate afterward, as many do. You may say, "But I have given my promise, and shall I now retract it?" I answer, If you have made a promise contrary to the Scriptures, by all means retract it without delay, and in humility before God repent of the infatuation that led you to make so rash a pledge. Far better take back such a promise, in the fear of God, than keep it, and thereby dishonor your Maker. --AH 48.
There is not one marriage in one hundred that results happily, that bears the sanction of God,
and places the parties in a position better to glorify Him.-- Testimonies vol.4 p.503
Love is a precious gift, which we receive from Jesus. Pure and holy affection is not a feeling, but a principle. Those who are actuated by true love are neither unreasonable nor blind.- MYP p.435
Love….. “rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.”-- 1 Corinthians 13:7.
Sunday 14 September 2014
The Mind of A Godly Young Man
“This question of marriage should be a study instead of a matter of impulse.” LYL 29
“Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord” (Proverbs 18:22).
“……a prudent wife is from the LORD.” Proverbs 19:14
“Married life is not all romance; it has its real difficulties and its homely details. The wife must
not consider herself a doll, to be tended, but a woman; one to put her shoulder under real, not
imaginary, burdens, and live an understanding, thoughtful life, considering that there are other
things to be thought of than herself.” FLB 256
“Every girl should learn to take charge of the domestic affairs of home, should be a cook, a
housekeeper, a seamstress. She should understand all those things which it is necessary that the
mistress of a house should know.” FLB 256.
There are very many girls who have married and have families, who have but little practical
knowledge of the duties devolving upon a wife and mother. They can read, and play upon an
instrument of music; but they cannot cook. They cannot make good bread, which is very
essential to the health of the family. They cannot cut and make garments, for they never learned
how. They considered these things unessential, and in their married life they are as dependent
upon some one to do these things for them as are their own little children.-- LYL 19.
“If need be, a young woman can dispense with a knowledge of French and algebra, or even of
the piano; but it is indispensable that she learn to make good bread, to fashion neatly fitting
garments, and to perform efficiently the many duties that pertain to homemaking” FB 256.
“Weigh every sentiment, and watch every development of character in the one with whom you think to
link your life destiny. While you may love, do not love blindly.” {AH 45.1}
“Examine carefully to see if your married life would be happy or inharmonious and wretched.”- AH 45.2
Let the questions be raised……
Is she worthy to stand by my side?
Will her influence ennoble and refine me?
Will she be fitted to bear her share of life’s burdens?
Will she bring happiness to my home?
Is [she] an economist?
Will she, if married, not only use all her own earnings, but all of mine to gratify a vanity, a love of appearance?
What has been her past record?
Is her life pure?
Is the love which she expresses of a noble, elevated character, or is it a mere emotional fondness?
Does she have traits of character that will make me happy?
Can she honor the Saviour's claims as supreme?
Will body and soul, thoughts and purposes, be preserved pure and holy?
Will this union help me heavenward?
Will it increase my love for God?
Will it enlarge my sphere of usefulness in this life?
Will she be patient with my mistakes?
Will she be one who will be patient and painstaking?
Will she cease to care for my parents at the very time when they need a strong son to lean upon?
Does she recognize his obligations to her mother?
Is she mindful of her wishes and happiness?
I know that to the mind of a man infatuated with love and thoughts of marriage these questions will be brushed away as though they were of no consequence. But these things should be duly considered, for they have a bearing upon your future life. --AH 46.
Marriage, in a majority of cases, is a most galling yoke. There are thousands that are mated but not matched. The books of heaven are burdened with the woes, the wickedness, and the abuse that lie hidden under the marriage mantle. This is why I would warn the young who are of a marriageable age to make haste slowly in the choice of a companion. The path of married life may appear beautiful and full of happiness; but why may not you be disappointed as thousands of others have been? --AH 44.
Great care should be taken by Christian youth in the formation of friendships and in the choice of companions. Take heed, lest what you now think to be pure gold turns out to be base metal. Worldly associations tend to place obstructions in the way of your service to God, and many souls are ruined by unhappy unions, either business or matrimonial, with those who can never elevate or ennoble. Never should God's people venture upon forbidden ground. Marriage between believers and unbelievers is forbidden by God. But too often the unconverted heart follows its own desires, and marriages unsanctioned by God are formed. --MYP 436.
Hundreds have sacrificed Christ and heaven in consequence of marrying unconverted persons. Can it be that the love and fellowship of Christ are of so little value to them that they prefer the companionship of poor mortals? Is heaven so little esteemed that they are willing to risk its enjoyments for one who has no love for the precious Saviour? 4T 507.2
Every marriage engagement should be carefully considered, for marriage is a step taken for life.
Both the man and the woman should carefully consider whether they can cleave to each other
through the vicissitudes of life as long as they both shall live --AH, p. 340
Give yourself sufficient time for observation on every point and then do not trust to your own judgment, and let the mother who loves you, and your father, and confidential friends, make critical observations of the one you feel inclined to favor. Trust not to your own judgment, and marry no one whom you feel will not be an honor to your father and mother, one who has intelligence and moral worth” --Letter 59, 1880.
He [Satan] is busily engaged in influencing those who are wholly unsuited to each other to unite
their interests. He exults in this work, for by it he can produce more misery and hopeless woe to the human family than by exercising his skill in any other direction.” --LYL 29
“Above all make Christ your counselor. Study His word with prayer” --MYP, p. 435
There is no safety for any man, young or old, unless he feels the necessity of seeking God for
counsel at every step .--AH, p. 331
“Let God teach you His way. Inquire of Him daily to know His will. He will
give unerring counsel to all who seek Him with a sincere heart” 9T p. 276..
If men and women are in the habit of praying twice a day before they contemplate marriage,
they should pray four times a day when such a step is anticipated. Marriage is something that
will influence and affect your life, both in this world and in the world to come.-- FLB 258
"A prudent wife is from the Lord." "The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her. . . . She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life." "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her," saying, "Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all." He who gains such a wife "findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord." Proverbs 19:14; 31:11, 12, 26-29; 18:22. MH 359.
“Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord” (Proverbs 18:22).
“……a prudent wife is from the LORD.” Proverbs 19:14
“Married life is not all romance; it has its real difficulties and its homely details. The wife must
not consider herself a doll, to be tended, but a woman; one to put her shoulder under real, not
imaginary, burdens, and live an understanding, thoughtful life, considering that there are other
things to be thought of than herself.” FLB 256
“Every girl should learn to take charge of the domestic affairs of home, should be a cook, a
housekeeper, a seamstress. She should understand all those things which it is necessary that the
mistress of a house should know.” FLB 256.
There are very many girls who have married and have families, who have but little practical
knowledge of the duties devolving upon a wife and mother. They can read, and play upon an
instrument of music; but they cannot cook. They cannot make good bread, which is very
essential to the health of the family. They cannot cut and make garments, for they never learned
how. They considered these things unessential, and in their married life they are as dependent
upon some one to do these things for them as are their own little children.-- LYL 19.
“If need be, a young woman can dispense with a knowledge of French and algebra, or even of
the piano; but it is indispensable that she learn to make good bread, to fashion neatly fitting
garments, and to perform efficiently the many duties that pertain to homemaking” FB 256.
“Weigh every sentiment, and watch every development of character in the one with whom you think to
link your life destiny. While you may love, do not love blindly.” {AH 45.1}
“Examine carefully to see if your married life would be happy or inharmonious and wretched.”- AH 45.2
Let the questions be raised……
Is she worthy to stand by my side?
Will her influence ennoble and refine me?
Will she be fitted to bear her share of life’s burdens?
Will she bring happiness to my home?
Is [she] an economist?
Will she, if married, not only use all her own earnings, but all of mine to gratify a vanity, a love of appearance?
What has been her past record?
Is her life pure?
Is the love which she expresses of a noble, elevated character, or is it a mere emotional fondness?
Does she have traits of character that will make me happy?
Can she honor the Saviour's claims as supreme?
Will body and soul, thoughts and purposes, be preserved pure and holy?
Will this union help me heavenward?
Will it increase my love for God?
Will it enlarge my sphere of usefulness in this life?
Will she be patient with my mistakes?
Will she be one who will be patient and painstaking?
Will she cease to care for my parents at the very time when they need a strong son to lean upon?
Does she recognize his obligations to her mother?
Is she mindful of her wishes and happiness?
I know that to the mind of a man infatuated with love and thoughts of marriage these questions will be brushed away as though they were of no consequence. But these things should be duly considered, for they have a bearing upon your future life. --AH 46.
Marriage, in a majority of cases, is a most galling yoke. There are thousands that are mated but not matched. The books of heaven are burdened with the woes, the wickedness, and the abuse that lie hidden under the marriage mantle. This is why I would warn the young who are of a marriageable age to make haste slowly in the choice of a companion. The path of married life may appear beautiful and full of happiness; but why may not you be disappointed as thousands of others have been? --AH 44.
Great care should be taken by Christian youth in the formation of friendships and in the choice of companions. Take heed, lest what you now think to be pure gold turns out to be base metal. Worldly associations tend to place obstructions in the way of your service to God, and many souls are ruined by unhappy unions, either business or matrimonial, with those who can never elevate or ennoble. Never should God's people venture upon forbidden ground. Marriage between believers and unbelievers is forbidden by God. But too often the unconverted heart follows its own desires, and marriages unsanctioned by God are formed. --MYP 436.
Hundreds have sacrificed Christ and heaven in consequence of marrying unconverted persons. Can it be that the love and fellowship of Christ are of so little value to them that they prefer the companionship of poor mortals? Is heaven so little esteemed that they are willing to risk its enjoyments for one who has no love for the precious Saviour? 4T 507.2
Every marriage engagement should be carefully considered, for marriage is a step taken for life.
Both the man and the woman should carefully consider whether they can cleave to each other
through the vicissitudes of life as long as they both shall live --AH, p. 340
Give yourself sufficient time for observation on every point and then do not trust to your own judgment, and let the mother who loves you, and your father, and confidential friends, make critical observations of the one you feel inclined to favor. Trust not to your own judgment, and marry no one whom you feel will not be an honor to your father and mother, one who has intelligence and moral worth” --Letter 59, 1880.
He [Satan] is busily engaged in influencing those who are wholly unsuited to each other to unite
their interests. He exults in this work, for by it he can produce more misery and hopeless woe to the human family than by exercising his skill in any other direction.” --LYL 29
“Above all make Christ your counselor. Study His word with prayer” --MYP, p. 435
There is no safety for any man, young or old, unless he feels the necessity of seeking God for
counsel at every step .--AH, p. 331
“Let God teach you His way. Inquire of Him daily to know His will. He will
give unerring counsel to all who seek Him with a sincere heart” 9T p. 276..
If men and women are in the habit of praying twice a day before they contemplate marriage,
they should pray four times a day when such a step is anticipated. Marriage is something that
will influence and affect your life, both in this world and in the world to come.-- FLB 258
"A prudent wife is from the Lord." "The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her. . . . She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life." "She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her," saying, "Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all." He who gains such a wife "findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord." Proverbs 19:14; 31:11, 12, 26-29; 18:22. MH 359.
Monday 25 August 2014
THE BIBLE AT A GLANCE
This is intriguing, exciting. ...
Our journey began at GENESIS through EXODUS.
On the way, we saw LEVITICUS recording the NUMBERS of people of DEUTERONOMY,
while JOSHUA was waiting at beautiful gate for JUDGES to see RUTH calling loudly SAMUEL! SAMUEL!
Because the first and second KINGS of CHRONICLES are coming to visit EZRA, NEHEMIAH and ESTHER
for the misfortune of JOB, their brother. As they notice that PSALMS was teaching his children
PROVERBS concerning ECCLESIASTES and SONGS OF SOLOMON. This coincided with the peroid that
ISAIAH and JEREMIAH were engaged in LAMENTATION for EZEKIEL and DANIEL. By the time AMOS
and OBADIAH were not around. Three days ago, HOSEA, JOEL and JONAH were reported to have
traveled in the same ship with MICAH and NAHUM to jerusalem. More also, HABAKKUK visited
ZEPHANIAH who introduced him to HAGGAI a friend of ZECHARIAH whose cousin is MALACHI.
Immediately after the old tradition, MATHEW, MARK, LUKE and JOHN involved in ACTS with the
ROMANS behaving like the CORINTHIANS who were always at loggerhead with the GALATIANS. At that
time, the EPHESIANS realizing that the PHILIPPIANS are interested in the case, they made known to
the COLOSSIANS who suggested to the THESSALONIANS that they should first of all see TIMOTHY who
has gone to the house of TITUS whowas teaching PHILEMON his younger younger brother how to read
and write HEBREW. On hearing, JAMES asked PETER to explain to him how the three JOHNS have
disclosed to JUDE the REVELETION of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God Bless.
This is intriguing, exciting. ...
Our journey began at GENESIS through EXODUS.
On the way, we saw LEVITICUS recording the NUMBERS of people of DEUTERONOMY,
while JOSHUA was waiting at beautiful gate for JUDGES to see RUTH calling loudly SAMUEL! SAMUEL!
Because the first and second KINGS of CHRONICLES are coming to visit EZRA, NEHEMIAH and ESTHER
for the misfortune of JOB, their brother. As they notice that PSALMS was teaching his children
PROVERBS concerning ECCLESIASTES and SONGS OF SOLOMON. This coincided with the peroid that
ISAIAH and JEREMIAH were engaged in LAMENTATION for EZEKIEL and DANIEL. By the time AMOS
and OBADIAH were not around. Three days ago, HOSEA, JOEL and JONAH were reported to have
traveled in the same ship with MICAH and NAHUM to jerusalem. More also, HABAKKUK visited
ZEPHANIAH who introduced him to HAGGAI a friend of ZECHARIAH whose cousin is MALACHI.
Immediately after the old tradition, MATHEW, MARK, LUKE and JOHN involved in ACTS with the
ROMANS behaving like the CORINTHIANS who were always at loggerhead with the GALATIANS. At that
time, the EPHESIANS realizing that the PHILIPPIANS are interested in the case, they made known to
the COLOSSIANS who suggested to the THESSALONIANS that they should first of all see TIMOTHY who
has gone to the house of TITUS whowas teaching PHILEMON his younger younger brother how to read
and write HEBREW. On hearing, JAMES asked PETER to explain to him how the three JOHNS have
disclosed to JUDE the REVELETION of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God Bless.
Friday 28 February 2014
It's In The Valley's I Grow
Sometimes life seems hard to bear,
Full of sorrow, trouble and woe
It's then I have to remember
That it's in the valleys I grow.
If I stayed on the mountain top
And never experienced pain,
I would never appreciate God's love
And would be living in vain.
I have so much to learn
And my growth is very slow,
Sometimes I need the mountain tops,
But it's in the valleys I grow.
I do not always understand
Why things happen as they do,
But I am very sure of one thing.
My Lord will see me through.
My little valleys are nothing
When I picture Christ on the cross
He went through the valley of death;
His victory was Satan's loss.
Forgive me Lord, for complaining
When I'm feeling so very low.
Just give me a gentle reminder
That it's in the valleys I grow.
Continue to strengthen me, Lord
And use my life each day
To share your love with others
And help them find their way.
Thank you for valleys, Lord
For this one thing I know
The mountain tops are glorious
But it's in the valleys I grow!
by Jane Eggleston
Full of sorrow, trouble and woe
It's then I have to remember
That it's in the valleys I grow.
If I stayed on the mountain top
And never experienced pain,
I would never appreciate God's love
And would be living in vain.
I have so much to learn
And my growth is very slow,
Sometimes I need the mountain tops,
But it's in the valleys I grow.
I do not always understand
Why things happen as they do,
But I am very sure of one thing.
My Lord will see me through.
My little valleys are nothing
When I picture Christ on the cross
He went through the valley of death;
His victory was Satan's loss.
Forgive me Lord, for complaining
When I'm feeling so very low.
Just give me a gentle reminder
That it's in the valleys I grow.
Continue to strengthen me, Lord
And use my life each day
To share your love with others
And help them find their way.
Thank you for valleys, Lord
For this one thing I know
The mountain tops are glorious
But it's in the valleys I grow!
by Jane Eggleston
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