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

I have been shown that many are in the greatest
danger of failing to perfect holiness in the fear of
the Lord. Ministers are in danger of losing their
own souls. Some who have preached to others will
themselves be cast away because they have not
perfected a Christian character. In their labor they
do not save souls, and fail even to save their own.
They do not see the importance of self-knowledge
and self-control. They do not watch and pray, lest
they enter into temptation. If they would watch,
they would become acquainted with their weak
points, where they are most likely to be assailed by
temptation. With watchfulness and prayer their
weakest points can be so guarded as to become
their strongest points, and they can encounter
temptation without being overcome. Every
follower of Christ should daily examine himself,
that he may become perfectly acquainted with his
own conduct. There is with nearly all a neglect of
self-examination. This neglect is positively
dangerous in one who professes to be a mouthpiece
for God, occupying the fearful, responsible
position of receiving the words from God to give to
His people. The daily conduct of such a person has
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