Testimony Treasures, Volume 1 - Ellen G. White

clear, distinct line of separation between them and the worldling. If in one
case men are driven away from the truth by a harsh, censorious,
condemnatory spirit, in this they are led to conclude that the professed
Christian is destitute of principle and knows nothing of a change of heart or
character. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good
works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16), are the
words of Christ.
The Lord requires His people to use their reason, and not lay it aside for
impressions. His work will be intelligible to all His children. His teaching
will be such as will commend itself to the understanding of intelligent minds.
It is calculated to elevate the mind. God's power is not manifested upon
every occasion. Man's necessity is God's opportunity.
When those who have witnessed and experienced false exercises are
convinced of their mistake, then Satan takes advantage of their error, and
holds it constantly before them, to make them afraid of any spiritual exercise,
and in this way he seeks to destroy their faith in true godliness. Because they
were once deceived, they fear to make any effort by earnest, fervent prayer
to God for special aid and victory. Such must not let Satan gain his object,
and drive them to cold formality and unbelief. They must remember that the
foundation of God standeth sure. Let God be true, and every man a liar.
Their only safety is to plant their feet upon the firm platform, to see and
understand the third angel's message, to prize, love, and obey the truth.
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