Reaching the Height of Christian Perfection

[devotional at egwlists.whiteestate.org]

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    Ellen G. White Estate, Devotional for August 7
    Visit us at http://www.whiteestate.org
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Reaching the Height of Christian Perfection

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or 
think, according to the power that worketh in us. Eph. 3:20. 


If you make God your strength, you may, under the most discouraging 
circumstances, attain a height and breadth of Christian perfection which you 
hardly think it possible to reach Your thoughts may be elevated, you may have 
noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, and purposes of action which 
shall raise you above all sordid motives. 

Both thought and action will be necessary if you would attain to perfection of 
character. While brought in contact with the world, you should be on your 
guard that you do not seek too ardently for the applause of men and live for 
their opinion. . . . Cultivate the grace of humility, and hang your helpless 
souls upon Christ. . . . In the midst of confusion and temptation in the 
worldly crowd you may, with perfect sweetness, keep the independence of the 
soul. 

If you are in daily communion with God you will learn to place His estimate 
upon men, and the obligations resting upon you to bless suffering humanity 
will meet with a willing response. You are not your own; your Lord has sacred 
claims upon your supreme affections and the very highest services of your 
life. He has a right to use you, in your body and in your spirit, to the 
fullest extent of your capabilities, for His own honor and glory. Whatever 
crosses you may be required to bear, ... you are to accept without a 
murmur. . . . 

Many are without God and without hope in the world. They are guilty, corrupt, 
and degraded, enslaved by Satan's devices. Yet these are the ones whom Christ 
came from heaven to redeem. They are subjects for tenderest pity, sympathy, 
and tireless effort; for they are on the verge of ruin. They suffer from 
ungratified desires, disordered passions, and the condemnation of their own 
consciences; they are miserable in every sense of the word, for they are 
losing their hold on this life and have no prospect for the life to come. You 
have an important field of labor, and you should be active and vigilant, 
rendering cheerful and unqualified obedience to the Master's calls.