Testimonies for the Church Volume 1 - A New You Ministry

I have been shown that the doubts expressed in regard to the truthfulness of ourposition and the inspiration of the word of God are not caused as many suppose themto be. These difficulties are not so much with the Bible or with the evidences of ourfaith as with their own hearts. The requirements of God’s word are too close for theirunsanctified natures. “The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subjectto the law of God, neither indeed can be.” If the feelings of the natural heart are notrestrained and brought into subjection by the sanctifying influence of the grace of Godreceived through the channel of faith, the thoughts of the heart are not pure and holy.The conditions of salvation brought to view in the word of God are reasonable, plain,and positive, being nothing less than perfect conformity to the will of God and purity ofheart and life. We must crucify self with the lusts thereof. We must cleanse ourselvesfrom all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.In almost every case where persons become unsettled in regard to the inspiration ofthe word of God, it is on account of their unsanctified lives, which that word condemns.They will not receive its reproofs and threatenings because these reflect upon theirwrong course of action. They do not love those who would convert and restrain them.Difficulties and doubts which perplex the vicious heart will be cleared away before theone practicing the pure principles of truth.Many possess talents which would accomplish much good if sanctified and usedin the cause of Christ, or much harm if employed in the service of unbelief and Satan.The gratification of self and its various lusts will pervert the talents and make them acurse instead of a blessing. Satan, the archdeceiver, possesses wonderful talents. Hewas once an exalted angel, next to Christ. He fell through self-exaltation, and createda rebellion in heaven, and caused many to fall with him.440