Testimonies for the Church, Volume 2 - Ellen G. White

through your influence and example. You have had
light and privileges, and for them you will have to
render an account. You are not naturally religious
or devotional, but have to make special effort to
keep your minds upon religious things. Self is
prominent with you. Your self-esteem is very
large; but remember that Heaven looks at moral
worth, and estimates the character as precious and
valuable by the inward adorning, the ornament of a
meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God
of great price. Costly array, outward adorning,
personal attractions, all sink into insignificance in
comparison with this valuable attainment, a meek
and quiet spirit. Your love for your own enjoyment
and gratification, your lack of consecration and of
devotion, have been detrimental to many. Those
who were backslidden you could not benefit, for
your lives were like the worldlings' in general.
Those who visit ——- carry away the
impression made by you and other of the youth
who do not enjoy experimental religion, that there
is no reality in religion. Pride is strengthened in
them; love of show, love of lightness and of
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