Testimony Treasures, Volume 3 - Ellen G. White

is most nearly hopeless and incurable is pride of opinion, self-conceit. This
stands in the way of all growth. When a man has defects of character, yet
fails of realizing this; when he is so imbued with self-sufficiency that he
cannot see his fault, how can he be cleansed? "They that be whole need not a
physician, but they that are sick." Matthew 9:12. How can one improve when
he thinks his ways are perfect?
When one who is supposed to be led and taught by God turns out of the
way, because of self-confidence, many follow his example. His false step
may result in misleading thousands.
Necessity for Fruit Bearing
Consider the parable of the fig tree:
"A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and
sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his
vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and
find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said
unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:
and if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down."
Luke 13:6-9.
"Then after that." In these words there is a lesson for all who are
connected with the work of God. A period of probation was granted to the
tree that bore no fruit. And in like manner God bears long with His people.
But of those who have had great advantages, and who are standing in
positions of high and sacred trust, and yet bear no fruit, He says: "Cut it
down; why cumbereth it the ground?"
Let those connected with the Lord's special instrumentalities remember
that He will call for fruit from His vineyard. Proportionate to the blessings
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