The Sealing and the Latter Rain

[devotional at egwlists.whiteestate.org]

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Ellen G. White Estate, Devotional for July 23
Visit us at http://www.whiteestate.org
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The Sealing and the Latter Rain

Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The
Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name
of Christ depart from iniquity. 2 Tim. 2:19. 


Before the work is closed up and the sealing of God's people is
finished, we shall receive the outpouring of the Spirit of God. Angels
from heaven will be in our midst. 

Our heavenly Father claims not at our hands that which we cannot
perform. He desires His people to labor earnestly to carry out His
purpose for them. They are to pray for power, expect power, and receive
power, that they may grow up into the full stature of men and women in
Christ Jesus. 

Not all members of the church are cultivating personal piety; therefore
they do not understand their personal responsibility. They do not
realize that it is their privilege and duty to reach the high standard
of Christian perfection. . . . Are we looking forward to the latter
rain, confidently hoping for a better day, when the church shall be
endued with power from on high and thus fitted for work? The latter rain
will never refresh and invigorate the indolent, who do not use the
powers God has given them. 

We are in great need of the pure, life-giving atmosphere that nurtures
and invigorates the spiritual life. We need greater earnestness. The
solemn message given us to give to the world is to be proclaimed with
greater fervency, even with an intensity that will impress unbelievers,
leading them to see that the Most High is working with us, that He is
the source of our efficiency and strength. . . . 

Are you using all your powers in an effort to bring the lost sheep back
to the fold? There are thousands upon thousands in ignorance who might
be warned. Pray as you have never prayed before for the power of Christ.
Pray for the inspiration of His Spirit, that you may be filled with a
desire to save those who are perishing. Let the prayer ascend to heaven,
"God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon
us; that thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all
nations" (Ps. 67:1, 2).

>From Maranatha - Page 212