EGW WritingsDaniel 1

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 190, 1907

St. Helena, California

June 26, 1907

Fragment; not on file.

Conflict and Courage

Four Boys in Babylon, August 28

CC 246.1

As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom. Daniel 1:17.

CC 246.2

Daniel and his companions enjoyed the benefits of correct training and education in early life, but these advantages alone would not have made them what they were. The time came when they must act for themselves—when their future depended upon their own course. Then they decided to be true to the lessons given them in childhood.44Messages to Young People, 243.

CC 246.3

What a lifework was that of these noble Hebrews! As they bade farewell to their childhood home, how little did they dream of their high destiny! Faithful and steadfast, they yielded themselves to the divine guiding, so that through them God could fulfill His purpose.45Education, 57.

CC 246.4

Daniel and his companions in Babylon were, in their youth, apparently more favored of fortune than was Joseph in the earlier years of his life in Egypt; yet they were subjected to tests of character scarcely less severe. From the comparative simplicity of their Judean home these youth of royal line were transported to the most magnificent of cities, to the court of its greatest monarch, and were singled out to be trained for the king’s special service. Strong were the temptations surrounding them in that corrupt and luxurious court.... The direction that their food should be supplied from the royal table was an expression both of the king’s favor and of his solicitude for their welfare. But a portion having been offered to idols, the food from the king’s table was consecrated to idolatry; and in partaking of the king’s bounty these youth would be regarded as uniting in his homage to false gods.46Ibid., 54, 55.

CC 246.5

The history of Daniel and his youthful companions has been recorded on the pages of the inspired word for the benefit of the youth of all succeeding ages. Through the record of their fidelity to the principles of temperance, God is speaking today to young men and young women, bidding them gather up the precious rays of light He has given on the subject of Christian temperance, and place themselves in right relation to the laws of health.47Messages to Young People, 243.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 33, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, par. 7

“As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king. And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the kind enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” [Daniel 1:1-20.]

Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene

Chapter 3—Effects of Stimulants

CTBH 26.1

When these youth were selected to be educated in the “learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans,” that they might “stand in the king’s palace,” there was appointed them a daily allowance from the king’s table, both of food and wine. “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank.” [See Daniel 1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 89, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 89, 1898, par. 5

Daniel and the Revelation should be gotten out in little books and made as simple as possible. This should be given to every church, and to the people scattered everywhere. It is not a money making scheme, but it will bring in means to invest in getting out other books. Elder Haskell has a whole treasure house of precious things, and he should be tenderly cherished, and everything provided for him that will help him in his work. These precious things should be taken down in shorthand, and given to our people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 123, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 123, 1898, par. 7

This is our work. The light that we have upon the third angel’s message is the true light. The mark of the beast is exactly what it has been proclaimed to be. All in regard to this matter is not yet understood, and will not be understood until the unrolling of the scroll; but a most solemn work is to be accomplished in our world. “Cry aloud; spare not; lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sin.” [Verse 1.] A message is to be given to arouse the churches. Every effort is to be made to give the light not only to our people, but to the world. I have been given light that the prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are to be printed in small books, with the necessary explanations, and sent all through the world. Our own people need to have the light in clearer lines before them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 180, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 180, 1898, par. 4

We are seeing and feeling that there is much to be done, and may the Lord strengthen and bless us all to do His work intelligently. We need to study the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation more earnestly. The truth we need is revealed in Revelation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 199, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 199, 1898, par. 5

The books of Daniel and Revelation are to be carefully and prayerfully studied. You are to connect with your brethren in presenting before the people all the light you can on these two books. The Lord wants not only your talent of ability; He wants the united talents of those He has commissioned to preach the gospel, so that the best and strongest Scriptural truths shall be linked together and combined as a perfect whole.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 86, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 86, 1898, par. 22

In the evening Elder Haskell spoke in a very acceptable manner upon Daniel. The theme of his discourse was that the book of Daniel was to be read and understood. Nearly three pounds were contributed at this meeting, making about eight pounds in one day.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 132, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 132, 1898, par. 26

God chooses His workers from all classes of people, and imbues them with His own spirit. So it was in ancient times. The men and women of God’s selection were of intense earnestness, full of zeal. The last books of the Old Testament show us workers taken from the laborers in the field. Others were men of high ability and extensive learning, but the Lord gave them visions and messages. These men of the Old Testament spoke of the things transpiring in their day, and Daniel, Isaiah, and Ezekiel not only spoke of things that concerned them as present truth, but their sight reached down to the future, and to what should occur in these last days.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 175, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 175, 1898, par. 3

The history of Daniel is recorded for the special benefit of those who desire to place themselves in the best condition of physical soundness, that they may reach as high a standard of usefulness as Daniel reached. The first chapter of Daniel is one of the most forcible discourses on temperance that could be given. Read it, read it, and as you read, become wise, not in your own conceit, but wise like Daniel and his fellows, whose physical, mental, and spiritual understanding increased with their sanctified resolution to adhere strictly to the principles of temperance in eating and drinking.

13LtMs, Ms 175, 1898, par. 4

These youth were greatly blessed in their effort to honor and please God by preserving their physical powers so that they would have mental strength, and so that God could mold and fashion them after the divine similitude. We read: “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. ... And in all matters of wisdom and understanding that the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” [Verses 17, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 174, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 174, 1899, par. 8

God desires the light found in the books of Daniel and Revelation to be presented in clear lines. It is painful to think of the many cheap theories picked up and presented to the people by ignorant, unprepared teachers. Those who present their human tests, and the nonsensical ideas they have concocted in their own minds, show the character of the goods in their treasure house. They have laid in store shoddy material. Their great desire is to make a sensation.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 169, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 169, 1900, par. 2

We must now see that a meetinghouse is built in Maitland. There are a goodly number of souls that have embraced the truth, and a church has been organized; but what bitter opposition is made by the ministers. It is pronounced and strong. Ministers who cannot evade the Bible argument for the Sabbath binding upon the people, talk in their pulpits that the Bible is not all the book it should be. (One said that Daniel should never be a part of the Bible; and other books he mentioned, and the same testimony was borne; and then he said he thought there would be a new Bible, and some of the books now in it would not appear.) Brethren Colcord and Goodheart were present.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 18, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 18, 1900, par. 7

Those who profess to believe the truth are not to separate themselves from the commandment-keeping people of God, as altogether more righteous than those God has appointed to preach His Word, to explain the prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation, to give the warnings regarding the law of God and the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, the seal of the living God. The Lord declares that the Sabbath is the sign between Him and His people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 192, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 192, 1900, par. 8

Brother Woodward is a pleasant, retiring, modest man, his wife a pleasant woman. I do not think they understand much of the truth, but they are eager to learn. I do not think they know what family prayer is. He was a Roman Catholic and has been converted to receive the truth, but knows but very little of the Bible. Sister Peck is teaching them. We commenced at once to have prayers, and meet in the morning on the front piazza and read in course; then in the evening, on back piazza, explain or have a study of the Scriptures. Both seem to be eager to get all the knowledge possible. Evenings they sit up, last Friday evening until eleven o’clock, all so interested in the study of Daniel that they kept no account of time.

15LtMs, Lt 192, 1900, par. 13

I have seen nothing of Brother Robinson. We did not attend meeting anywhere on Sabbath but we had meeting in the house. We are certainly doing good missionary work right here and have a great satisfaction in trying to help those souls which need help. We shall continue to do this work, we hope, for time and for eternity. These souls need to be educated. He [Brother Woodward (?)] is anxious to understand Daniel, and Sister Peck sits right down in the evenings and goes over the investigation as a Bible study and it is a great blessing to these dear souls. Now I think I have said enough on these things.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 16, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 16, 1900, par. 2

In the past, teachers have declared Daniel and the Revelation to be sealed books, and the people have turned from them. The veil whose apparent mystery has kept many from lifting it, God’s own hand has withdrawn from these portions of His Word. The very name, “Revelation,” contradicts the statement that it is a sealed book. Revelation means that something of importance is revealed. The truths of this book are addressed to those living in these last days. We are standing with the veil removed in the holy place of sacred things. We are not to stand without. We are to enter, not with careless, irreverent thoughts, not with impetuous footsteps, but with reverence and godly fear. We are nearing the time when the prophecies of the book of revelation are to be fulfilled.

15LtMs, Lt 16, 1900, par. 9

When the books of Daniel and Revelation are better understood, believers will have an entirely different religious experience. They will be given such glimpses of the open gates of heaven, that heart and mind will be impressed in regard to the character all must develop in order to realize the blessedness which is to be the reward of the pure in heart. The Lord will bless all who will seek humbly and meekly to understand that which is revealed in the Revelation. This book contains so much that is large with immortality and full of glory that all who read and search it earnestly receive the blessing to those “that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein.” [Revelation 1:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 59, 1900

Daniel and Revelation

15LtMs, Ms 59, 1900, par. 23

The books of Daniel and the Revelation are one. One is a prophecy, the other a revelation; one a book sealed, the other a book opened. John heard the mysteries which the thunders uttered, but he was commanded not to write them. The special light given to John which was expressed in the seven thunders was a delineation of events which would transpire under the first and second angels’ messages. It was not best for the people to know these things, for their faith must necessarily be tested. In the order of God, most wonderful and advanced truths would be proclaimed. The first and second angels’ messages were to be proclaimed, but no further light was to be revealed before these messages had done their specific work. This is represented by the Angel standing with one foot on the sea, proclaiming with a most solemn oath that time should be no longer.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 29, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 29, 1900, par. 2

Read the book of Daniel, chapter by chapter, and recognize the spirit that works in those who are under the control of the enemy of God. Many of these are church members, instructed by ministers who are doing just what God told them not to do.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 42, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 42, 1900, par. 20

On Sunday morning a Sabbath School Convention was held. I spoke in the afternoon on the subject of temperance, taking the first chapter of Daniel as my text. All listened attentively, seeming surprised to hear temperance presented from the Bible. After dwelling on the integrity and firmness of the Hebrew captives, I asked the choir to sing, “Dare to be a Daniel, dare to stand alone; dare to have a purpose true, and dare to make it known.” The inspiring notes of this song rang out from the sinners on the stand, who were joined by the congregation. I then resumed my talk, and I know that before I had finished, many present had a better understand of the meaning of Christian temperance. The Lord gave me freedom and His blessing, and a most solemn impression was left upon many minds.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 142, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, par. 2

Will our brethren bear in mind that we are living amid the perils of the last days? Read Revelation in connection with Daniel. Teach these things.—Special Testimonies to Ministers and Workers, No. 8, p. 24.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 132, 1901

NP

1901

Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 166-167; BTS 11/1912; 4MR 123.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 1

In order rightly to understand the subject of temperance, we must consider it from a Bible standpoint; and nowhere can we find a more comprehensive and forcible illustration of true temperance and its attendant blessings, than is afforded by the history of the prophet Daniel and his Hebrew associates in the court of Babylon.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 2

It was not their own pride or ambition that had brought these young men into the king’s court—into a companionship of those who neither knew nor feared the true God. They were captives in a strange land, and Infinite Wisdom had placed them there.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 3

When these youth were selected to be educated in the “learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans,” that they might “stand in the king’s palace,” there was appointed them a daily allowance from the king’s table, both of food and wine. “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank.” [Verses 4, 5, 8.] Daniel’s companions, also, resolutely denied selfish desires, and put away hurtful gratifications.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 4

At this trial of their loyalty, they considered their position, with its dangers and difficulties, and then in the fear of God made their decision. Even at the risk of the king’s displeasure, they would be true to the religion of their fathers. This purpose was not formed without due reflection and earnest prayer. When Daniel was required to partake of the luxuries of the king’s table, he did not fly into a passion, neither did he express a determination to eat and drink as he pleased. Without speaking one word of defiance, he took the matter to God. He and his companions sought wisdom from the Lord, and when they came forth from earnest prayer, their decision was made. There was much involved in this decision. They were regarded as slaves, but were particularly favored because of their apparent intelligence and comeliness of person. But they decided that any pretense, even to sit at the table of the king and eat of the food or accept of the wine, even if they did not drink it, would be a denial of their religious faith. There was no presumption with these youth, but a firm love for truth and righteousness. They did not choose to be singular, but they must be, else they would corrupt their ways in the courts of Babylon and be exposed to every kind of temptation in eating and drinking. The corrupting influences would remove their safeguard, and they would dishonor God and ruin their own characters.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 5

Daniel could have argued that at the royal table, and at the king’s command, there was no other course for him to pursue. But he and his fellows had a council together. They canvassed the entire subject as to how they would improve their physical and mental powers by the use of wine. They studied this subject most diligently. The wine of itself, they decided, was a snare. They were acquainted with the history, which had come to them in parchments, of Nadab and Abihu. In these men, the use of wine had encouraged their love for it. They drank wine before their sacred office in the sanctuary. Their senses were confused. They could not distinguish the difference between the sacred and the common fire. In their brain-benumbed state, they did that which the Lord had charged all who served in holy office not to do. They put the common fire upon the censers, when they had been expressly charged to use only the sacred fire of the Lord’s own kindling that never went out.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 6

Nadab and Abihu had not in their youth been trained to habits of self-control. The father’s yielding disposition, his lack of firmness for right, had led him to neglect the discipline of his children. His sons had been permitted to follow inclination. Habits of self-indulgence, long cherished, obtained a hold upon them which even the responsibility of the most sacred office had not power to break. They had not been taught to respect the authority of their father, and they did not realize the necessity of exact obedience to the requirements of God. Aaron’s mistaken indulgence of his sons prepared them to become subjects of the divine judgments.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 7

The instruction given to the people was carefully treasured up and often composed into song and taught to their children, that through song they might become familiar with the truths. Daniel and his companions had been educated in regard to Nadab and Abihu, and also Abel, Seth, Enoch, and Noah. They cherished the truth that had been given them from human lips, passing down the line from one generation to another. The image of God was engraved upon the heart.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 8

A second consideration of those youthful captives was that the king always asked a blessing before his meals, and addressed his idols as deity. He set apart a portion of his food to be presented to the idol god whom he worshiped, and also a portion of the wine. This act, according to their religious instruction, consecrated the whole to the heathen god. To sit at the table where such idolatry was practiced, Daniel and his three brethren deemed would be a dishonor to the God of heaven. These four children decided that they could not sit at the king’s table, to eat of the food placed there, or to partake of the wine, all of which had been dedicated to an idol god. This would indeed implicate them with heathenism and dishonor the principles of their national religion and their God.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 9

With true courage and Christian courtesy, they requested the officer who had them in charge to give them a more simple fare; but he hesitated, fearing that such rigid abstinence as they proposed would affect their personal appearance unfavorably and bring him into disfavor with the king. The explanation Daniel gave was that the mind must not be clouded with these articles, which, if he should eat, would be difficult of digestion. Even in articles of healthful food there must be a restriction in the quantity taken. The food placed in the stomach Daniel had under his own control; therefore he could co-operate with God in keeping his stomach in a healthful condition by not benumbing his sensibilities by overeating or by the use of wine and flesh-meats, which are not healthful or necessary for physical strength. A proper regard for the articles of food eaten would keep a healthful current of blood flowing through his veins, and his mind and body would be in a condition for hard, stern labor; for mind and body would not be oppressed with a variety of flesh-meats.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 10

These youth urged most earnestly that the one who had charge of their food should not compel them to partake of the king’s luxuries, or drink of his wine. They begged him to try them ten days only, and then examine them, and decide by their physical appearance whether their abstemious diet would be to their advantage. Their request was granted, for they had obtained favor with God and with men.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 11

Why did Daniel and his companions refuse to eat at the king’s table? Why did they refuse his meats and wines? Because they had been taught that this class of food would not keep the mind or the physical structure in the very best condition of health to do God’s service. They sought to acquire knowledge for a purpose—to honor and glorify God. They must perfect a Christian character and have a clear intellect in order to stand as the representatives of the true religion amid the false religions of heathenism. To them the will of God was the supreme law of life. They practiced temperance in eating and drinking, that they might not enfeeble brain or muscle. The food appointed them would include meats pronounced unclean by the law of Moses. Those four Hebrew youth chose to have their mental powers clear and undimmed, and their physical health was to them a matter of the highest consideration. They would not imperil the physical and moral powers for the indulgence of appetite. They saw that perils were on every side and that, if they resisted temptation, they must make most decided efforts on their part and then trust the rest with God.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 12

When they came in for examination, the result was decidedly in their favor. These youth were found to be far more healthy in appearance than were those who had partaken of the king’s dainties. It was otherwise with the youth who had eaten of the luxuries of the king’s table and drank of his wine. The clear sparkle of the eye was gone; the ruddy, healthful glow had disappeared from the countenance. The four Hebrew captives were thereafter permitted to have the diet they had chosen. What effect did it have upon mind and character? They had conscientiously refused the stimulus of flesh and of wine. They obeyed God’s will in self-denial, and He showed His approval. He desired His servants to honor Him by their adherence to steadfast principle in all their habits of life. Their countenances would be a certificate of physical soundness and moral purity.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 13

Though surrounded by temptations to self-indulgence and dissipation, they would not consent to violate their consciences. They made God their strength, their minds were not enervated by habits of indulgence which crush out true, godlike manhood, and they were prepared to attain both moral and intellectual greatness. As a result, their minds became strong and vigorous. They chose the real, the true, and the useful, rather than the momentary indulgence of appetite and pride. They did all in their power to place themselves in right relation to God, and the Lord was not unmindful of their firm, persevering, earnest effort.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 14

These youth had the Lord as their educator. The golden links of the chain of heaven connected the finite with the Infinite. They were partakers of the divine nature. They were very careful to keep themselves in touch with God. They prayed and studied and brought into their practical life strictly conscientious, humble minds. They walked with God as did Enoch. The Word of the Lord was their meat and their drink. These youth were sincere, faithful Christians. True education must be all-sided, not one-sided. Such an education Daniel and his fellows were determined to have.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 15

The Lord can impress the mind, if it is in a healthful condition. Then the human agent and God are in co-partnership. The created human agent and the Creator are working to make man in every sense complete in Jesus Christ. There is no war instituted by the human agent against the law of his being. Daniel purposed in his abstemious habits of nonuse of meats to glorify God. The blessing of the Lord attended the youth who would, through love and fear of God, discard everything they deemed detrimental to their advancement in their physical, mental, and moral perfection. Under God they were in perfect training, that all their faculties might do highest service for him.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 16

These youth had received a right education in early life; and now, when separated from home influences and sacred associations, they honored the instructors of their childhood. With their habits of self-denial were coupled earnestness of purpose, diligence, and steadfastness. They were not actuated by pride or unworthy ambition, but sought to acquit themselves creditably for the honor of their down-trodden people and for His glory whose servants they were.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 17

While these youth on their part were working out their own salvation with fear and trembling, it was God who was working in them both to will and to do His own good pleasure. The conditions of the reward for our own good are as if everything depended upon ourselves. To make God’s grace our own, we must act our part. There is a work that is laid before us to do, and this work must be done with fidelity, and the fruit we bear will manifest before God, before angels, and before men the character of our work. The penny was given to the laborer in the vineyard, but not to the loiterer in the market place. Those who in this life want to become all that God designs that they should, will ever be learners. This knowledge will not generally come in a supernatural manner, although this is not impossible. There are stores of information to be obtained by painstaking effort. Thus it was with Daniel. He kept close to God, and while he applied himself closely and earnestly to acquire all the knowledge possible, God added his blessing.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 18

The Scriptures declare of Daniel and his fellows, “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Daniel 1:17.] These youth had placed themselves in connection with the Source of all wisdom. They learned of Christ, the world’s greatest teacher. While improving their opportunities to obtain a knowledge of the sciences, they were obtaining also the highest education which it is possible for mortals to receive. They received light directly from the throne of Heaven, and read the mysteries of God for future ages.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 19

When the ability and acquirements of these youth were tested by the king at the end of the three years of training, none was found like unto Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Their keen apprehension, their choice and exact language, their extensive and varied knowledge testified to the unimpaired strength and vigor of their mental powers. Therefore they stood before the king. “And in all matters of understanding that the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” [Verse 20.]

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 20

These youth determined that the talents entrusted to them of God should not be perverted and enfeebled by selfish indulgence. They reverenced their own manhood. They kept their eyes fixed steadfastly on the good which they wished to accomplish. They honored God, and God honored them. God always honors the right. The most promising youth from all the lands subdued by the great conqueror had been gathered at Babylon, yet amid them all, the Hebrew captives were without a rival. The erect form, [the] elastic step, the fair countenance, the undimmed senses, the untainted breath—all were so many certificates of good habits—insignia of the nobility with which nature honors those who are obedient to her laws.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 21

The history of Daniel and his companions contains a lesson for us. Inspiration declares that the “fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] Religious principle lies at the foundation of the highest education. If our youth are but balanced by principle, they may with safety improve the mental powers to the very highest extent, and may take all their attainments with them into the future life. But temptations assail the young on every hand. Fathers and mothers should give thought and study and persevering effort to the training of their children, that they may stand unsullied by the prevailing evil, as did those Hebrew youth in the court of Babylon.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 22

We would that there were strong young men, rooted and grounded in the faith, who had such a living connection with God that they could, if so counseled by our leading brethren, enter the higher colleges in our land, where they would have a wider field for study and observation. Such was the method pursued by the ancient Waldenses; and if true to God, our youth, like theirs, might do a good work even while gaining their education, in sowing the seeds of truth in other minds.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 23

Daniel’s parents had trained him in his childhood to habits of strict temperance. They had taught him that he must conform to nature’s laws in all his habits; that his eating and drinking had a direct influence upon his physical, mental, and moral nature, and that he was accountable to God for his capabilities; for he held them all as a gift from God, and must not, by any course of action, dwarf or cripple them. As the result of this teaching, the law of God was exalted in his mind and reverenced in his heart. During the early years of his captivity, Daniel was passing through an ordeal which was to familiarize him with courtly grandeur, with hypocrisy, and with paganism. A strange school indeed to fit him for a life of sobriety, industry, and faithfulness! And yet he lived uncorrupted by the atmosphere of evil with which he was surrounded.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 24

Daniel and his companions enjoyed the benefits of correct training and education in early life, but these advantages alone would not have made them what they were. The time came when they must act for themselves—when their future depended upon their own course. Then they decided to be true to the lessons given them in childhood. The fear of God, which is the beginning of wisdom, was the foundation of their greatness. His Spirit strengthened every true purpose, every noble resolution.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 25

The lesson here presented is one which we would do well to ponder. Our danger is not from scarcity, but from abundance. We are constantly tempted to excess. Those who would preserve their powers unimpaired for the service of God must observe strict temperance in the use of His bounties, as well as total abstinence from every injurious or debasing indulgence.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 26

The rising generation is surrounded with allurements calculated to tempt the appetite. Especially in our large cities, every form of indulgence is made easy and inviting. Those who, like Daniel, refuse to defile themselves, will reap the reward of their temperate habits. With their greater physical stamina and increased power of endurance, they have a bank of deposit upon which to draw in case of emergency.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 27

The history of Daniel and his companions has been recorded on the pages of the inspired Word for the benefit of the youth of all succeeding ages. What men have done, men may do. Did those youthful Hebrews stand firm amid great temptations and bear a noble testimony in favor of true temperance? The youth of today may bear a similar testimony.

16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, par. 28

We who are living in this age have greater light and privileges than were given to Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, and other ancient worthies, and we are under correspondingly greater obligation to let our light shine to the world. The Lord would have us learn a lesson from the experience of Daniel. There are many who might become mighty men, if, like this faithful Hebrew, they would depend upon God for grace to be overcomers and for strength and efficiency in their labors.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 224, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 224, 1902, par. 11

I ask men here in this congregation, What are you worshiping? Are you converted? Do you profess to believe the truth of Daniel and Revelation? Have you become nearly insane over your own specious theories? Has the living God taken possession of heart, mind, and soul? Have you been critically examining your own life by the Word of God, and has it had its influence to break you from the idolatry and imagery you have framed to make of none effect the Word of the living God?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 223, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 223, 1902, par. 11

I have been deeply impressed by the Spirit of God that we are to pass through severe trials. Everyone’s faith will be tested. We must study carefully the old waymarks. These experiences in the past are to be revived. Daniel is to stand out conspicuously with the Revelation given to John on the Isle of Patmos.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 170, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 170, 1902, par. 16

We need to study Revelation in connection with Daniel. Both of these books are to be carefully and prayerfully studied, and as we study them, we are to pray that their importance may be impressed on our hearts by the Holy Spirit.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 231, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 231, 1902, par. 41

Publications; I have seen that one should be on Daniel and Revelation, published right together, making scarcely any remarks or explanations, or but very few. That has been shown me for years. And they should be sold to those whom you can sell them to, and give them away to those whom you cannot sell them to.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 165, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 165, 1902, par. 20

We do not dwell sufficiently upon the Revelation and the book of Daniel. These books should be published together in pamphlet form, with a few explanations added, and they should be circulated everywhere. The words of inspiration will do their appointed work; for the Holy Spirit will impress hearts in regard to the prophecies given. In this pamphlet it should be made plain that a revelation is not a mystery which cannot be understood, but rather a mystery revealed. These two books may be prepared for publication in a pamphlet bound inexpensively, costing but a trifle, and small enough to be carried in the pocket. Printed together, the books of Daniel and the Revelation will speak to the people and tell their own story.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 1, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 1, 1903, par. 4

The books of Daniel and the Revelation should be bound together and published. A few explanations of certain portions might be added, but I am not sure that these would be needed.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 263, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 263, 1903, par. 27

A sad and alarming chapter in our experience has for years been opening before us, and much of its record needs to be blotted out with the blood of redeeming love. There are some who are betraying the truth and betraying their Saviour. Let them dismiss from their minds the theories of the great deceiver. Let them humble their hearts before God. Let them fix their minds on the science of truth contained in His Word. In the books of Daniel and the Revelation they will find truths to understand which will tax the mind to the utmost.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 110, 1904

Healdsburg, California

March 19, 1904

Portions of this manuscript are published in CTr 177-178; 17MR 30.

(Sermon, Pacific Union Conference, Healdsburg, California, 11 a.m., Sabbath, March 19, 1904.)

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 1

“In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure-house of his god.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 2

“And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king’s seed, and of the princes; children in whom was no blemish, but well favored, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.” [Daniel 1:1-4.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 3

In making these appointments, the king did not choose novices, or those whose home training had been defective; he chose youth who in mind and body gave promise of a life of usefulness.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 4

To be of service in the Babylonian court, these youth must first become so familiar with the language of the Chaldeans that they would be able to use it fluently. They were therefore placed under the instruction of the wise men of Babylon.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 5

“And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king’s meat, and of the wine which he drank; so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 6

“Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.” [Verses 5, 6.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 7

The king worked insidiously. In him was vested absolute authority, as ruler of a kingdom of surpassing grandeur, yet he did not seek to influence these young men standing before him—men of perfect form and fine mental qualities—by an imposing display of the greatness of his power; he did not try to compel them to renounce their faith in favor of idolatry. He sought to bring this about gradually, by having them sit at a table with idolaters for three years, where they would become familiar with idolatrous customs. He hoped that by giving these youth opportunity of observing daily the display connected with the charming, seductive rites of heathen worship, he would induce them fully to apostatize and become one with the Babylonians in matters of religion.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 8

Why did not the Hebrew captives yield to the king’s desire? They had learned to some purpose in their homes. They had skill and wisdom and understanding, because they had heeded the Word of the Lord. They had taken counsel of God. The mighty Counselor was revered by these youth; therefore all the attractions that could be presented to them were of no avail. Consulting one another, they purposed in their hearts that they would not eat at the king’s table.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 9

One objectionable feature of the proposed plan to eat at this table was the fact that here the youth would be expected to partake of wine and luxuries that they had not had in their Judean homes. Heretofore their habits had been temperate. A healthful current of blood flowed through their veins. Their appearance betokened health. Not a trace of imbecility or weakness could be discerned. They had passed through the training school of temperance and self-denial—a school in which it would be well for every youth to be trained. In this age of the world, young men and young women should determine that they will not indulge in any extravagance by eating and drinking the luxuries that tempt the appetite, but that weaken moral and physical power.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 10

The Hebrew captives feared that should they sit at the king’s table and partake of his luxuries, they would lose their keenness of perception. They realized that indulgence of appetite is destructive of brainpower; and they feared that should they yield, they would lose their high sense of the peculiarity of their religion—the religion of the Bible. They were fully convinced that they had gained a knowledge of the truths of God; for they had studied the Sacred Records of the creation and of God’s dealings with His people from age to age.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 11

Parents, these youthful captives in Babylon had made the Bible the study of their lives. And why?—Their parents feared God and taught them to prize His precepts. If every child in every family should have the attention that these Hebrew youth had in early life, what might we not expect from the youth that are trained in this day? If parents fail of doing their duty, and neglect their children, the sins of the sons and daughters whose characters are defective will be charged to the parents as well as to the actual transgressors; for fathers and mothers are the guardians of their little ones.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 12

Parents are the first teachers of children. And wherever a school is established to carry forward the training begun in the home school, those whose children attend this school should feel under solemn obligation to stand by the side of the teachers in the school. The guardians of the home should feel the burden of this work and be willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with the teachers in bearing it. Let prayers ascend to God in behalf of the work of the school. Let no word of faultfinding or criticism be uttered during the conversation around the table, or at any other time. By their prayers, by every word and deed, let them encourage and sustain the teachers in the school and reveal a genuine interest in its work.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 13

In no event are parents inexcusable for wilful neglect of their children. Let luxuries be laid aside; let economy in food and dress be studied and practiced. Angels of God will co-operate with those who make earnest efforts to train their children for heaven. Angels are in every household, watching for opportunities to co-operate with the parents in every effort made to bring up children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. During family worship, during the hours devoted to instruction—in every time and place—heavenly angels are present to impress minds.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 14

Fathers, mothers, do you not desire to have the help that these angels are ready to give you? Realize that unless you take special pains to glorify the God of heaven, unless you keep Him exalted before your children, the laxness of your Christian life will be reflected in the lives of your children. If your discipline be loose, their character building will be defective in consequence of your neglect. You cannot afford this. You cannot afford to come up to the judgment, there to hear the words, “Neglectful servant.” [Matthew 25:26.] You cannot afford to fail of bringing your children up to the gate of the heavenly city, with the words, “Here am I, Lord, and the children which Thou gavest me.” [Hebrews 2:13.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 15

Let us make the salvation of our children our first business. Let us carry out the mind and will of the God of heaven by working to this end. Whatever our surroundings may be—even if we be living in a neighborhood where infidel sentiments or other evils prevail—we are constantly to counterwork the efforts of the enemy and devote to the training of our children as many hours as we can spare.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 16

The God-fearing parent who realizes the importance of molding minds in the years of childhood is willing to lose financially in many things, rather than to neglect to give time to the performance of this duty. He realizes that financial loss is nothing, in comparison with the loss that would be sustained in consequence of neglect to train his children for heaven. What earthly gain could be compared with a life that measures with the life of God? Who could plead the pressure of business cares as an excuse for not devoting sufficient time to so great a work? Children who are properly trained at home will honor God above everything that is upon the face of the earth. The life that we are now living is granted us as a time of preparation for the future, immortal life. Let us take time for self-examination, for meditation and prayer, for pointing out to our children the way to heaven. Eternal interests are at stake. Better far would it be to clothe your children plainly and to live simply, and take the time necessary for instructing them in the way of salvation, than to seek earthly riches and luxury and honor at the expense of neglected home duties.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 17

But to return to the record of Daniel’s experience: “Among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abed-nego.” [Daniel 1:6, 7.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 18

The names of Daniel and his fellows are changed. This act on the part of the king is another underhanded attempt to lead these youth to worship idols. The names given children by Hebrew parents were always regarded as of high value, as they had a peculiar significance and often stood for some trait of character. The Babylonians reasoned that by giving Daniel and his companions names referring to the worship of heathen deities, these worshipers of the true God would more quickly become familiar with the gods of Babylon.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 19

“Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” [Verse 8.] This was a pointed request.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 20

“Now God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs.” [Verse 9.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 21

Why?—Because Daniel had been well trained at home, and he had a loveable character. Wherever he and his companions were, their words and actions sweetened the surrounding atmosphere. In our day this may be true of every one who takes his position on the Lord’s side, and who eats of the flesh and drinks of the blood of the Son of God. Our youth are composed of what they eat. If heavenly principles are kept before their minds and instilled in their hearts, they are transformed into the likeness of Christ. They partake of the same living fountain that flowed from Christ, the living Rock, during the wilderness-wandering of the Israelites.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 22

Some may inquire, “Why were the Israelites taken out of their homes in the cities and in the fertile country districts of Egypt and led into a wilderness, where they had to bear so many hardships and disappointments?” O it was that they might be given a training that would make them a model people, an example to the surrounding idolatrous nations. God entrusted them with His law and instructed them in every duty of life. Just before entering the promised land, the statutes and judgments of God were repeated; and concerning these the Lord through His servant Moses declared:

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 23

“Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord your God is in all things that we call upon Him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?” [Deuteronomy 4:6-8.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 24

Established in the land of Canaan, the Israelites were obedient for a time and prospered. The impression made upon the surrounding nations was wonderful. They were indeed the light of the world. So long as they placed entire dependence on God, and obeyed His precepts, they were far in advance of any other people. But in time a change took place. They began to be proud and self-sufficient. Gradually they lost their hold upon God and became rebellious and stubborn. Little by little they lost their sacred peculiarity and became like the idolatrous nations with whom they mingled.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 25

In this age of the world God is gathering out from all nations a people who will obey His commandments. Christ “gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” [Titus 2:14.] Obedience to the Sabbath commandment is one of the principal features of our peculiarity. We keep the seventh-day Sabbath—the Sabbath of the Bible—the day that in Eden God set apart as holy time. After finishing the creation of the world in six days, He “rested on the seventh day from all His work.” [Genesis 2:2.] This is the day He has bidden us keep. Will we be true to Him? Come what may, to try our faith, will we choose to remain loyal to the Sabbath commandment? We shall be tested on this very point—and much sooner, perhaps, than many realize.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 26

In these last days our youth need to be trained as carefully as was Daniel in his home in the hills of Judea; for upon them will come tests as severe as those that tried the faith of the Hebrew captives. Young men and young women must now be willing to sacrifice life, if need be, rather than to apostatize and to break God’s commandments.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 27

Idolatry is in the land. In the place of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, a spurious sabbath has been instituted by man and soon all will be required to observe this unholy day of rest. Will our children yield and go into idolatry?

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 28

Now is our day of preparation. God has mercifully granted us a probation during which to prepare for the final great test. If we choose, we may form, and help our children form, a loving, Christlike character that will enable us to withstand every effort of the enemy to overcome us. Firmness to right principles will lead the followers of Jesus to refuse to do evil and to delight in doing good. Let us determine to be true. Let us faithfully instruct our children; and let us, too, take an interest in the children of parents who do not seem to understand what it means to educate their children for the courts above. We must make some provision for these unfortunate ones; for none who are sinful can enter heaven.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 29

Our God made an infinite sacrifice for the redemption of the lost race. In the gift of His only begotten Son to die for us, He has revealed His deep love for humanity. What a sacrifice Christ made, that He might bring every son and daughter of Adam to His Father’s throne! In order to embrace every human being in the plan of salvation, Christ came not as a prince, escorted by a majestic train of heavenly angels; He came in the likeness of mankind. Stepping from His high command, and laying aside His royal robe and kingly crown, He came to this earth as a babe, of humble parentage. Like us, He passed through the periods of infancy, childhood, and youth. In His early manhood He worked at the carpenter’s trade and continued to live in the home of His youth. Faithfully He toiled with Joseph and fulfilled the duties of an obedient son.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 30

Fathers, upon you there rests an important work. You should take your son with you, and exert a right influence over him. Train him in habits of industry. Never encourage any tendency toward idleness; for Satan finds some mischief for idle hands and brains to do. Those who have taken upon themselves the responsibilities of parenthood have assumed sacred obligations, and in the fear of God they should strive to fulfil these. No one has a right to bring into the world children who, through neglect in the home, will be permitted to drift into the hands of Satan. God forbid that any parents, no matter how pressing their business interests may be, should make the salvation of their children a matter of secondary importance!

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 31

O that parents would awaken to a realization of their high privileges! O that they would teach their children line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little! O that they would watch for souls, as those who must give an account! We may make our homes as God desires to see them made—places in which the presence of His Spirit can dwell. He is ready to strengthen every son and daughter of His to fill their position nobly.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 32

Child-training, it is true, is often difficult and perplexing; but wisdom will be given for meeting every emergency. Let none do this work with severity. Let kindness and the love of God rule. Sometimes punishment must be administered; but let it be the final resort. First do everything else possible to lead the child to obey. God desires the teachers in the home school to stand in the moral dignity of His might and power and to train their children as subjects of His kingdom. He values sweetness of temper, kindness of disposition, faithfulness in service, self-denial in every habit of life, gratitude to God for blessings temporal and spiritual. Children who have learned to cultivate these traits of character will repay their parents a hundredfold for all the trouble taken in their early training. Their lives will redound to God’s glory; and in the eternal home that Christ has gone to prepare for us, parents and children as united families will share the reward of the faithful.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 33

God gives us everything we have. What right have our children in this world, what right have we, excepting that which comes through the sacrifice of our Saviour? We are sinners, under sentence of death; and only through Christ, our Atonement, is it possible for us to receive pardon and to lay claim to anything that we enjoy or hope to attain. Christ came to take away the sin of the world and thus to save sinners. Shall we not let Him take ours away? He is ready and willing to do a work for every soul who comes to Him.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 34

And when our sins are taken away, when our hearts are transformed, when upon us is placed the robe of Christ’s righteousness, our Redeemer acknowledges us as His representatives and bids us do a work for Him. Wonderful grace!

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 35

Before the giving of the law at Sinai, God made a solemn covenant with the Israelites on condition of obedience to His commandments. “If ye will obey My voice indeed,” the Lord declared, “and keep My covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto Me above all people: for all the earth is Mine: and ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.” [Exodus 19:5, 6.] These promises are made to us as verily as they were to the Israelites. Why are we so weak? God cannot lie; He will fulfil every promise made. O our weakness is the result of disobedience. Those who have professed to be the children of God have neglected duties in the home life. They have failed to unite with Him who is mighty, and in their own strength they have been unable to train their children for heaven.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 36

Parents, lay hold on the strength of the mighty Helper. Be true to the church in your home. Obey every one of Heaven’s precepts. Take your children with you into the church, and there let their tender lips bear testimony regarding the love of God in the heart. This is an important part of their training; for they are to learn to be missionaries in the world—witnesses for Christ and His truth.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 37

It is for the perfecting of the work begun in the home school and in the church that church schools and higher institutions of learning are established. Many, many years ago light was given me that we should have church schools; that we should take every pains to deny self, so as to be able to create a fund for the establishment of these schools, in which provision should be made for our children and youth to obtain a Christian training for service in the cause of God.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 38

Only when hearty co-operation exists between parents and church school teachers can these schools serve the best interests of children and youth. Fathers, mothers, let the teachers know that you are in sympathy with them, and that you will strive to second their efforts by pulling in even cords with them. Let it be understood that you are in favor of nothing less than the elevated standard of perfection. Unite with them in pressing the battle to the gates. Encourage the youth to put on the armor of righteousness and to strive to overcome every defect. The Lord will give them power to gain victory after victory. Like Daniel and his fellows, our little ones, trained as these Hebrew youth were, will become children in whom is “no blemish, but well favored, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science,” and such as have ability in them to stand in kings’ palaces. [Daniel 1:4.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 39

Some of our youth will indeed stand in kings’ palaces. There are many here today who will be brought before kings and nobles to give an answer for their faith. God’s people will be scattered into all parts of the world; because the very work that ought to have been done in many cities and other places, both at home and abroad, has been neglected. God desires that every student who goes out from Healdsburg College should stand in a position where he can honor and glorify the God of heaven. It is God who gives wisdom; it is God who helps every one who strives to do his best to help himself. Will you determine to honor God? Arouse to a realization of your infinite privileges! Cultivate your moral sensibilities. Carry out the principles of the Word of God, which are yea and amen.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 40

But I must return to Daniel. He had requested that he be excused from sitting at the king’s table. You may regard this as a foolish request. Some would reason that Daniel might have exerted an influence for good by associating with idolaters. But the influence exerted by his wicked associates would have been liable to lead him astray.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 41

A second consideration with these youthful captives was the fact that the king, before eating, always asked the blessing of his gods upon the food. A portion of the food, and also of the wine, from his table was set apart as an offering to the false gods whom he worshiped. According to the religious ideas of the day, this act consecrated the whole to the heathen gods. Daniel and his three brethren thought that even if they should not actually partake of the king’s bounties, a mere pretense of eating the food or drinking the wine, where such idolatry was practiced, would be a denial of their faith. To do this would indeed be to implicate themselves with heathenism and to dishonor the principles of the law of God. They decided to stand firm in their integrity, let the result be what it might.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 42

“The prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? Then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 43

“Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink. Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenances of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.” [Verses 10-13.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 44

Ten days is a short time, yet Daniel had faith to believe that the Lord would work for them, if they should be given opportunity to partake of simple food even for this length of time.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 45

“So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days.” [Verse 14.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 46

Now the sum is proved, in favor of these self-denying ones: “At the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat. Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.” [Verses 15, 16.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 47

God co-operates with every one who does his best to overcome. Divine power is granted for the carrying out of every noble purpose. The experience of the Hebrew captives is but one of many illustrations in the Word, revealing that God’s blessing attends the obedient. Of Daniel and his companions it is declared: “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Verse 17.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 48

Daniel’s understanding of visions and dreams enabled him to act a very prominent part in connection with the rulers of Babylon as well as with his own captive people. Through him the God of heaven was revealed to Nebuchadnezzar as an all-powerful God—“a God of gods, and a Lord of kings.” [Daniel 2:47.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 49

The story is a familiar one. In the same year that Daniel and his companions entered the service of the king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar had a remarkable dream, by which “his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him.” [Verse 1.] Although this vision of the night made a deep impression on his mind, he found it impossible to recall the particulars. He applied to his wise men, but they failed so completely that the king discerned their hypocrisy and commanded that they be put to death. Daniel, hearing of this decree, sought an interview with the king and begged that time be granted in order that he might reveal to the king the dream and its interpretation. The monarch acceded to this request. Daniel went to his house and prayed, in company with his three companions, for light from heaven. In a night vision the secret was revealed unto Daniel. The rehearsal of the dream, with its interpretation, led Nebuchadnezzar to revoke his edict for the destruction of the wise men. Their lives were spared because of Daniel’s connection with the God who is a “revealer of secrets.” [Verse 47.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 50

Nebuchadnezzar’s wonderful dream caused a marked change in his ideas and opinions, and for a little time he was influenced by the fear of God; but his heart was not yet cleansed from its pride, its worldly ambition, its desire for self-exaltation. After the first impression wore away, he thought only of his own greatness and studied how the dream might be turned to his own honor.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 51

The words, “Thou art this head of gold,” made the deepest impression upon Nebuchadnezzar’s mind. [Verse 38.] He determined to make an image that should excel the original. This image was not to deteriorate in value from the head to the feet, like the one he had been shown, but was to be composed throughout of the most precious metal. Thus the whole image would represent the greatness of Babylon, and he determined that by the splendor of this image the prophecy concerning the kingdoms which were to follow should be effaced from his mind and from the minds of others who had heard the dream and its interpretation. From the treasures obtained in war, Nebuchadnezzar “made an image of gold, whose height was three score cubits, and the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plan of Dura,” and issued a proclamation, calling upon all the officers of the kingdom to assemble at the dedication of this image and, at the sound of musical instruments, to bow down and worship it. [Daniel 3:1-5.] Should any fail of doing this, they were immediately to be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 52

The appointed day came, and at the sound of entrancing music, the vast company “fell down, and worshiped the golden image.” [Verse 7.] But the three Hebrew youth, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego (we have no record of Daniel’s being present), did not dishonor the God of heaven by paying homage to this idol. Their action was reported to the king. Angered, he called them before him and by threats endeavored to induce them to unite with the multitude in worshiping the image. Courteously, yet firmly, they declared their allegiance to the God of heaven and their faith in His power to deliver them in the hour of trial.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 53

The king’s wrath knew no bounds. He commanded that the furnace be heated seven times hotter than was its wont. And without delay the Hebrew exiles were cast in. So furious were the flames that the men who cast the Hebrews in were burned to death.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 54

Suddenly the countenance of the king paled with terror. He looked intently upon the glowing flames and turning to his lords, in tones of alarm, inquired, “Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?” The answer was, “True, O king.” His voice trembling with excitement, the monarch exclaimed, “Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God!” [Verses 24, 25.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 55

The Hebrew captives had told Nebuchadnezzar of Christ, the Redeemer that was to come; and from the description thus given, the king recognized the form of the fourth in the fiery furnace as the Son of God.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 56

Hastening to the furnace, Nebuchadnezzar cried, “Ye servants of the most high God, come forth.” [Verse 26.] And they obeyed, before that vast multitude showing themselves unhurt, not even the smell of fire being on their garments. True to duty, they had been proof against the flames. Only their fetters had been burned.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 57

Tests will come to every one of us. We know not how many will be placed in peculiar positions, where we shall have opportunity of showing forth the glory of God. We are to keep in view the honor of our heavenly Father. Wherever we are, we are to let nothing earthly deter us from glorifying His name. Are we prepared for the tests that will come?

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 58

The vain glory and oppression seen in the course pursued by the heathen king Nebuchadnezzar are being and will continue to be manifested in our day. History will repeat itself. In this age the great test will be upon the point of Sabbath observance. The heavenly universe beholds men trampling upon the law of Jehovah, making the memorial of God—the sign between Him and His commandment-keeping people—a thing of naught, something to be despised, while a rival sabbath is exalted, as was the great golden image in the plain of Dura. Men claiming to be Christians will call upon the world to observe this spurious sabbath that they have made. All who refuse will be put under oppressive laws. This is the mystery of iniquity, the devising of satanic agencies, carried into effect by the man of sin.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 59

Apostate Protestantism has accepted the false sabbath instituted by the Roman Catholic Church. They have cradled this child of the papacy. Very soon all who refuse to worship this idol will be forbidden to buy or sell. The advisability of enacting such a law is now being discussed. But the people of God will enter into no controversy with the world over this matter. They will simply take God’s Word for their guide and maintain their allegiance to Him whose commandments they keep. They will obey the words of Jehovah recorded in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, verses twelve to eighteen:

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 60

“Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. ... Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore ... for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever.” This word “forever” is a further proof of the immutability of God’s law. It can never be changed.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 61

Read the entire scripture, and study it with care; for it means much. With God, mere profession amounts to nothing; He recognizes as His children only those who are true to Him. Those whose lives of obedience witness to their allegiance to the God of heaven will be granted the reward of life eternal.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 62

We have a great work to do. To us has been committed the work of giving to the world the light of God’s truth. We are to warn men and women against the worship of the beast and his image—against the worship of the idol Sunday. But in doing this work, we need not begin a warfare against unbelievers. We are simply to present the Word of the Lord, in its true dignity and purity, before the minds of those who are ignorant or indifferent regarding its teachings. The Holy Spirit will impress their hearts. We must leave the responsibility with those to whom we carry the message of present truth. We need not tell them that they will go to hell unless they keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. The truth itself, accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit, will convict and convert hearts. We are simply to arouse those in error to a realization of their accountability to God for the light of truth that is shining forth from the pages of God’s Word. Truth, received into the heart, will change the life and mold the character into the divine similitude.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 63

We do not begin to improve our opportunities for enlightening the people. Not half of those living in Healdsburg and in surrounding cities and villages know anything concerning the reasons of our faith. We must learn to be evangelists. Upon us rests the responsibility of enlightening those who are living within the sphere of our influence.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 64

May God help us to make this meeting what it ought to be—a meeting in which there is no complaining, no censuring, no condemnation. Let every one attend to his own soul’s salvation and plead with God for overcoming grace. The Lord will give victory to every one who comes to Him in simplicity of faith for pardon and strength. He is willing and waiting to honor every penitent, believing soul with the presence of the Holy Spirit.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 65

Let us lift up our hands of thanksgiving and praise and honor to Him that sitteth upon the throne. Let us, to whom have been entrusted the treasures of present truth, magnify His name by sharing these treasures with every unbeliever whom we can reach. Let us remember that God’s work is in need of means and that we have the privilege of denying ourselves every needless thing in order to give of our means for the advancement of the truth.

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 66

To those who are consecrated, Christ will give many opportunities to speak words of righteousness to souls ready to perish; and He will impart wisdom and grace for the doing of this work. Brethren and sisters, will you come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty?

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 67

I sound the note of warning to you today. Get ready; get ready! For two months, excepting two or three nights, I have lain upon my bed at night, unable to sleep past twelve o’clock; and I have pled with God in the night season to arouse our people to take hold of matters understandingly and to act their part faithfully. The world is to be warned! To those who are faithful during the closing work of the message will be given an abundant entrance through the pearly gates into the city of God; and there every one will be greeted with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] A glittering crown will be placed upon every brow, a golden harp in every hand. With strains of sweetest music the redeemed will unite in ascribing praise and thanksgiving to Christ. The language of every heart will be, “Worthy, worthy, worthy is the Lamb, who gave His life for me.” [See Revelation 5:12.]

19LtMs, Ms 110, 1904, par. 68

Brethren and sisters, are we prepared to stand the test that will soon be brought to bear upon us? We must have strength from above, else we shall fail. Let us seek God during this meeting. Let us put away the spirit of controversy and of faultfinding. Let us cherish the spirit of humility, of love, of peace. Let us cling to the mighty pillars of truth and exalt the Lord God of Israel, making Him our fear and our dread. God grant that this may be the experience of every one!

Conflict and Courage

Witnessing, August 31

CC 249.1

But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. 1 Corinthians 9:27.

CC 249.2

As God called Daniel to witness for Him in Babylon, so He calls us to be His witnesses in the world today. In the smallest as well as the largest affairs of life, He desires us to reveal to men the principles of His kingdom. Many are waiting for some great work to be brought to them, while daily they lose opportunities for revealing faithfulness to God. Daily they fail of discharging with wholeheartedness the little duties of life....

CC 249.3

In the life of the true Christian there are no nonessentials; in the sight of Omnipotence every duty is important. The Lord measures with exactness every possibility for service. The unused capabilities are just as much brought into account as those that are used. We shall be judged by what we ought to have done, but did not accomplish because we did not use our powers to glorify God.

CC 249.4

A noble character is not the result of accident; it is not due to special favors or endowments of Providence. It is the result of self-discipline, of subjection of the lower to the higher nature, of the surrender of self to the service of God and man....

CC 249.5

The body is a most important medium through which the mind and the soul are developed for the upbuilding of character. Hence it is that the adversary of souls directs his temptations to the enfeebling and degrading of the physical powers....

CC 249.6

The body is to be brought into subjection to the higher powers of the being. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified, by divine grace, is to bear sway in the life. Intellectual power, physical stamina, and the length of life depend upon immutable laws. Through obedience to these laws, man may stand conqueror of himself, conqueror of his own inclinations, conqueror of ... “the rulers of the darkness of this world,” and of “spiritual wickedness in high places.” 51Prophets and Kings, 487-489.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 140, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 140, 1904, par. 8

This morning, Sunday, I am grateful to report a good night’s rest. I am very thankful to my heavenly Father that His presence was with me yesterday as I spoke to the large congregation from Daniel, chapter one. For one hour I was speaking to the people, and there was so much to be said that I could not give it to the people in one talk.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 351, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 351, 1905, par. 10

He believes straight present truth. There is not one thread of spiritualistic science which would take the world in its deceivings. It is solemn, serious truth which is before the people, the truth of the first, second, and third angels’ messages, linking Daniel and Revelation together. And the grasp he has of the people is marvelous. The Lord has put His Spirit into the mind, heart, and soul of Brother Simpson. He is firm upon the testimonies. This work should be taken up in every city now without delay.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 372, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 372, 1906, par. 6

For several weeks, meetings have been held in Oakland in a large tent pitched close by the post office. Elder Simpson has had wonderful success in this series of meetings. His method has been to make Scripture explain Scripture; and the Holy Spirit has convinced many hearts of the truth. The people cannot but accept a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” The beasts used as symbols in the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation he has presented before the people in life-size images, and this has impressed the people strongly. He has lectured only in the evening, when men are released from their work and can come out to hear. After a few weeks of labor he presented the Sabbath, again making the Bible prove every statement.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 350, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 350, 1906, par. 6

He has large life-like representations of the beasts and symbols in Daniel and the Revelation, and these are brought forward at the proper time to illustrate his remarks. Not one careless or unnecessary word escapes his lips. He speaks forcibly and solemnly. Many of his hearers have never before heard discourses of so solemn a nature. They manifest no spirit of levity, but a solemn awe seems to rest upon them. He takes up a collection only once a week, but he receives sufficient to defray his expenses without being obliged to call upon the conference.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 349, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 349, 1906, par. 10

The Lord has been working with Elder Simpson, teaching him how to give to the people this last warning message. His method of making the words of the Bible prove the truth for this time, and his use of the symbols presented in Revelation and Daniel, are effective. Let the young men learn as for their lives what is truth and how it should be presented. We are living in the last days of the great conflict; the truth alone will hold us securely in this time of trouble. The way should be prepared for Elder Simpson to give the message, and our young men should attend his evening meetings.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 326, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 326, 1906, par. 8

Brother Simpson dwells especially upon the prophecies in the books of Daniel and the Revelation. He has large representations of the beasts spoken of in these books. These beasts are made of papier-mâché, and by an ingenious invention, they may be brought at the proper time before the congregation. Thus he holds the attention of the people, while he preaches the truth to them. Through this effort hundreds will be led to a better understanding of the Bible than they ever had before, and we trust that there will be many conversions. Those who attend his lectures and are not converted must practically reject the Word of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 368, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 368, 1906, par. 3

In presenting before the people the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation, Brother Simpson illustrates them by large images of the beasts of these prophecies; and this is creating a wonderful interest. He uses the Bible to prove every statement he makes and tells the people if they have any controversy with the truth he is teaching, their controversy must be with the Bible itself. This method of making the Bible prove the Bible makes a deep impression on the minds of those assembled. The Lord is impressing many minds.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 400, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 400, 1906, par. 9

Brother Simpson’s meetings were largely attended, and the people listened to his words with spellbound interest; the interest continued from first to last. With his Bible in his hand, and basing all his arguments on the Word of God. Brother Simpson traced out before the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation. His own words were few; he made the Scriptures themselves explain the truth to the people. After giving them the truth, Elder Simpson would draw an expression of opinion from his congregation. “Now,” he would say, “those who see the truth of what I am saying, raise your hands;” and in response many hands would be raised. I can only poorly represent to you the interest his work has created.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 105, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 105, 1906, par. 5

The manner of Elder Simpson’s work reminds me of the efforts that were put forth in 1843 and 1844. He does not make prominent his own words, but reads the Bible, explaining one scripture by another. He dwells largely on the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation and uses many illustrations and suitable figures to impress the truth. To represent the beasts of Daniel and Revelation, he has prepared lifelike images of papier-mâché.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 388, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 388, 1906, par. 3

The manner of Elder Simpson’s work reminds me of the efforts that were put forth in 1843 and 1844. He does not make prominent his own words, but reads the Bible, explaining one Scripture by another. He dwells largely on the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation and uses many illustrations and suitable figures to impress the truth. To represent the beasts of Daniel and Revelation, he has prepared life-like images of papier-mâché.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 6, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, par. 9

May the Lord help you to understand His Word. If you will heed and practice this Word, you will become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Let our ministers and teachers seek knowledge from the one true source. Let them seek the Lord with much prayer, earnestly searching His Word to find the hidden treasure. Now, just now, is the golden opportunity to understand the truths of the Word, and let this opportunity be improved by all. Let the book of Daniel be read and its instruction heeded.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 73, 1909

Council Grove, Kansas

August 27, 1909

This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 314-321.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 1

The first chapter of Daniel teaches the lesson that what we eat and drink has an influence upon the powers of the mind, and that if we would have healthful bodies and clear minds, we must be careful of our diet. If we are careless in this matter, and eat simply to gratify taste, the digestive organs are impaired, and the brain is confused, and neither can act their part as fully as God intended they should.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 2

“Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat and with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 3

“Now God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my Lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? so shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 4

“Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink. Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenances of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat; and as thou seest, deal with thy servants. So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days. And at the end of the ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat. Thus Melzar took away their portion of meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.” [Verses 8-16.]

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 5

Daniel and his companions determined to banish from their dietary everything that would defile, and a power from above worked in harmony with their efforts. As a result they had the privilege of following their own course in the obtaining of their education. And the education they gained was better than that gained by any of the magicians, astrologers, or wise men in all the king’s realm.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 6

Those who desire to come into right relation to God need to study Daniel’s plan. That was a sum proved; you may take the sum and prove it also. There are many who think that those who adopt health reform suffer a loss of physical strength; but if these would test the matter for themselves, they would change their minds on this point. I have tested the value of health reform for thirty years, living just as simply as possible, and my physical ability at the age of 82 has been a surprise to many. In this journey I have taken, entailing five months of constant labor in the desk and out of the desk, my strength has been sustained. In my experience, health reform has given me a wonderful victory.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 7

The Lord does not want us to have irritable tempers and disturbed and confused minds. He wants us to do for ourselves just what these Hebrew youth did for themselves. We are to let alone the wine that excites and intoxicates. We see all around us too much of the results of its use.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 8

How earnestly should we plead for the benefits of the truth in this age of the world’s history. How greatly are its principles needed! Consider the city of San Francisco. What was it that brought the judgments of God upon that city? We read the answer in the revelations that have been made of corruption in those who stood in high office. Corruption and drunkenness and robbery are discovered on every hand. And this condition of wickedness is not in San Francisco alone. We who have the truth understand the meaning of these conditions and events. We are living in the last evening of this earth’s history. Is it not time that every soul place himself in right relation to God to act an individual part for the upbuilding of the kingdom of Christ? Is it not time that fathers and mothers do a special work in the family? Let there be no harsh words, no scoldings. This does not reform. Take your children apart when they do wrong, and show them the result of a wrong course of action. Pray with them. That prayer may make such an impression on their minds that they will see that you are not unreasonable. And if the children see that you are not unreasonable, you have gained a great victory. This is the work that is to be carried on in our family circles in these last days. Our children are a sacred responsibility. God requires that they be brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 9

This lesson also teaches the effect of a simple diet upon the physical powers. Students attending school should have provided for them food that will not cause disturbances in the human organism. If you do not know how to provide such food, I ask you to learn how. We are fighting for a kingdom; we are to be laborers together with God, and we must learn to subdue our passions, lest we be shut out of the courts of heaven. If we do not perfect Christian characters here, we cannot enjoy the pleasures of eternal life.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 10

Daniel stood in a very responsible position in the kingdom of Babylon. There will always be those who will occupy positions of lesser responsibility; but whatever our work, our example may be such that it will lead others into right paths. We need to humble ourselves before God and pray to Him and trust in Him. We do not pray half enough in our families and alone with God. There is a world to be saved, and every talent should be used in the service of God. You may not be able to go outside your family, but you can still do a work for God; and by your own course of action you can encourage those who have missionary work to perform. We cannot afford to miss any opportunity for perfecting a Christian character. Whatever experience may come to others, remember that you, in your lot and place, will be tested by God. There will be times when you will be placed in unfavorable positions; but at such times plead with God, trust in Him, and walk in simple faith before the Lord. Then angels of heaven will impress your minds. Let not your minds be filled with self and self-interests.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 11

The Lord is looking upon us in mercy and love today. Who will follow out the will of the Lord? Who will study to overcome the hasty temper, remembering that the words they speak are spoken in the hearing of heavenly angels. These heavenly agencies are continually ministering to us; and they will speak through us and by us if we will walk humbly with God. They open for us opportunities to make known a knowledge of the God of heaven to others. Let us acknowledge God as the highest power. Let us cherish our Redeemer’s spirit of meekness and humility of mind. Let us study our lifework, that it may bear the test of the judgment. We shall then stand on vantage ground with Daniel and his companions, overcoming by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 12

In the third chapter of Daniel, we can read the record of God’s mighty work in behalf of the youth who would not bow to the image that the king had set up; and we may know that the same God is near to us as we stand in His power to honor His name in our experience. The form of the Fourth walked beside the Hebrews in the midst of the fiery furnace, because they refused to bow down to the image and to worship the work of men’s hands.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 13

“Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto him, True, O king. He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and”—the king’s countenance turns pale as he continues—“the form of the Fourth is like the Son of God.” [Verses 24, 25.]

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 14

Going to the mouth of the furnace, Nebuchadnezzar calls the youth to come forth. “Ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither,” he says. “And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire and no power, nor was any hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. Then Nebuchadnezzar spake and said, Blessed by the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent His angel, and delivered His servants that trusted in Him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no God that can deliver after this sort.” [Verses 26-29.]

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 15

The God of the Hebrews is our God. Let us seek to stand in right relation to Him. We have souls to save or to lose, and it depends upon our individual selves whether we save or lose. If we lose, we carry others with us to destruction. All heaven is looking upon us to see what course we will pursue—whether we will overcome by the blood of the Lamb or be careless and indifferent, going on as we please, filling our days with the pleasures of the world and our minds with the foolish novel, while God’s work is neglected and His Word cast aside.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 16

I ask you to consider these things as you have never yet considered them. I present before you Christ as your only hope. “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] I present Christ’s character before you. Study it carefully. There is no higher education to be gained than that which you gather from the Word of God. Those who will may gain from it an intelligence and an understanding that is as enduring and as reliable as that which Daniel had, and which preserved him and carried him safely through test and trial. Christ will give judgment to the student of His Word today, as He gave the Hebrew youth judgment. These young men were found to have more wisdom than all the wise men in all the realm of Babylon.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 17

When the heart is in right condition before God, we shall deny self. Did not God give Jesus, His only begotten Son?—He who was equal with the Father in the making of man. What are you doing to make yourself acceptable before God? Are you cultivating your reasoning powers? Are you preserving your physical powers by a wise and careful diet? Let the wine alone, and everything of the kind. We need to adopt a simple diet if we would have a clear understanding of our duty. Let us remember that we are living in review before God, that we shall have tests to bear, and that our faith in God is to be so cultivated that we can reach up to Heaven in full confidence for sanctification of body, soul, and spirit.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 18

We need that living faith that will take hold of God; and we can have this if we will study the will of the Lord in all things. In times of poverty and sickness and suffering, it is our privilege to go to the Saviour and tell Him our necessities and ask Him for His help. And if we will rely upon the Word of God, we shall see the fulfillment of His promises. Every day we are meeting temptation and trial in one form or another; but if we walk humbly with God and do our best, seeking daily to come into close relation to Him, He will work in our behalf.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 19

Study the record of the life and activities of Christ. The Saviour knew that He could do little if He remained in one place. Therefore he moved from city to city and village to village, the crowds often following Him in great multitudes. He gave these followers instruction, teaching them of Himself from the words of the Old Testament Scriptures. As he would present old truths in a new light before them, the people would listen as to something they had never before heard of.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 20

On one occasion the people gathered about the Saviour until there were 5,000 men, besides women and children. All day they had listened to the great Teacher; and now as evening drew on, the Master said to His disciples, These must be weary; they should have rest and food. But the inquiry arose, Where shall we find food for so great a company? The Saviour asked, How much have you? The disciples replied, Five barley loaves, and a few small fishes. Bid them sit down on the ground, the Saviour commanded. Then breaking the bread, He gave to His disciples and the disciples to the multitudes.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 21

When the people were satisfied, the Saviour gave the command to his disciples, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Here Christ taught a precious lesson, one that was to come clear down through the ages to our time. There is an economy that Christ wants each to weave into our experience. There are wants and necessities on every hand to be supplied; there are needy and suffering ones to help. When we stand in right relation to God, we will stand in right relation to the principles of economy. We will know by experience what it means to deny self. We will be willing to sacrifice for the sake of others.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 22

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Christ accepted the office laid upon Him. Seeing the needs of men, He laid aside His royal robe and crown and came to earth to minister to mankind. And day by day in His life on earth, He was preparing for greater tests to come with stronger power.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 23

Just before His crucifixion He took His disciples apart that they might pray with Him, that He and they might receive strength to endure. It was here in His agony in the garden of Gethsemane that the cup trembled in His hand. Should He drink it, and thus be separated from God? Should He take the sins of the world upon Him? The woes of a lost race rose up before Him, and He said, “Father, if this cup may not pass from Me, except I drink it, Thy will be done.” [Matthew 26:42.] Then a mighty angel from glory came to His side and strengthened Him to go through the awful trial.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 24

He was laid in the tomb, and a great stone was rolled up before the door of the tomb. But when the day of His release came, a mighty angel from heaven came and rolled back the stone as it had been a pebble. And Jesus came forth, and proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He revealed Himself to Mary and to His disciples, bringing rejoicing to their hearts.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 25

God sent His Son into the world that He might learn by actual experience the needs of humanity. Through humanity combined with divinity He must reach man and enable him to lay hold upon the divine nature.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 26

Let us not turn from the representation because we cannot be one with the world and at the same time be one with Christ. We do not deserve heaven if we come to Christ in that way. Let us make an entire surrender to God. God wants us to withdraw from association with those who would lead us to withdraw from Him. He wants His people to lay hold with strong determination to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. He wants them to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, to consecrate themselves to God, to bear the suffering part of religion as well as to share its joys. If they cannot do this, they cannot enter the gates of the city of God and have right to the tree of life.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 27

Let us ever remember that eternal life has been secured for us at the cost of God’s only begotten Son. Considering this, should we not study to know what sacrifices we can make for His cause, what part we can act in advancing the glory of God for the great hereafter? Humanity can grasp the divinity of Christ. This is for us if we will lay hold of it by an intelligent faith. Let us learn what it means to deny self as Christ denied self. He laid aside all that He had with the Father and, clothing His divinity with humanity, came to earth that He might teach men and women how they might overcome. We are living in a time of test. Shall we not decide to stand on the side of Christ in this matter.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 28

Do you not want the gates of the city of God to be opened freely to you, and you be welcomed in with your children? Do you not want the crown of glory placed upon your brow? Do you not want that life that measures with the life of God? If we enjoy these eternal blessings, we have sacrifices to make in this life. We must reveal that we possess a faith that lays hold upon the living God and a righteousness that overcomes sin. May God bless us here today. How much are we willing to sacrifice in order to co-operate with Jesus Christ in our individual salvation? What are we willing to do that we may be enlightened and may enlighten others? Satan is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness to set in operation means by which to bring suffering upon God’s people. Let us cultivate the simplicity of true godliness. Let us in our human nature take hold of the divine, that that nature may mold our life, our character, our words and works. Then we shall go straight forward in the name of Jesus Christ.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 29

There are souls to be saved from their sin. We must lay hold of them by living faith and give them every chance to overcome. I ask you, will you not accept the truth I have presented before you today? Will you not seek to come into harmony with the spirit of this work, that you may have a part in it? Will you not make the effort to put away folly and indulgence and do all in your power to save the souls that are perishing?

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 30

We need help for the work to be done in different parts of the great missionary field. In Portland, Maine, where the truth was preached with power in 1842-44, our brethren and sisters have need of a little meetinghouse. Very little labor has been given to the city of Portland. There are a few Sabbathkeepers there, but they have no house of worship. We do not hesitate to ask you to help in the erection of this house of worship by giving us of your means; for by so doing you will be laying up in the heavens a treasure that faileth not. We want you to have a part in carrying the message of mercy to the world.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 31

We hope to have a large company of believers in Portland, Maine. The power of God was felt at the camp-meeting held there recently; and we hope that many souls will be revived as a result of its work, and that many more will lay hold of the truth of the gospel. Now, if you want to help, do so, and the Lord will let His blessing rest upon you.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 32

And there are other places in similar need. It is represented to me that there are hundreds of places needing our help. The work of God is a work of self-sacrifice. Who among us is willing to unite in labor for the saving of souls? Those who will here determine to do this, rise to your feet.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 33

(Congregation rises.) (Praying): My heavenly Father, I have tried to present in my weakness those things that Thou hast presented before me again and again to congregations that I have not seen assembled; and this is one of them. I ask Thee now to make the impression upon the human mind. Thou canst do it; for Thou art God, and beside Thee there is none else. Thou hast given Thine only begotten Son to make plain the way constantly beset with temptations by the enemy. I ask Thee, Lord, to bless this people here today. Sweep back every mist and cloud of darkness, and let the sunlight of Thy glory in. Work by Thy Holy Spirit upon the minds of parents and children, that all may labor together for the spread of the knowledge of the truth.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 34

God, the living God, souls are perishing, and Satan is working to call the attention of the people to nothingness and folly. Wilt Thou not go with this people, as they leave this meeting, and teach them daily to lay hold of the merits of the precious Redeemer. Thou hast given so much for these souls; help them to make a covenant with Thee by sacrifice, that they may have a part in that life that measures with the life of God. We want them to have the crown of glory and to strike the harp of gold. Lord, take this people; baptize them with Thy Holy Spirit. Let them see light in Thy light and rejoice in Thy truth. There is a heaven for them to win, a hell for them to shun. Grant that they may be crowned in the kingdom of glory, never again to go out into a sin-cursed world, where all is renewed by Thy sacrifice, our blessed Redeemer.

24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, par. 35

Take these souls into Thy keeping. Make the impression upon their minds that heaven must be won by them, that they must withstand the tests of Satan. Bless them this day. Thou hast blessed them. Bless mind, and soul, and body, and help each to arouse to earnest labor for others. Make them laborers together with God in the work of salvation, and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 71, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 71, 1910, par. 1

Daniel 1:1-21. Now, you see, it makes a difference how we proceed with ourselves. You see, these youths had been educated to strict temperance in all things, and the education that had been given them was for their present and future good. Their intelligence depended upon what they ate and drank. If they used wine and the high foods that the king had appointed them, they would step right out from the course that they had laid out for themselves as students that they should pursue, that they might stand high in clear intellect, in clear presentation of the matters that would bring them to have a knowledge of God and the truth. Well, these were the very things that God wanted to have brought before that very king and before the associates of these young men. And we see how successful they were. I have read it to you.

25LtMs, Ms 71, 1910, par. 6

But I want you to consider that there is a consistency in this chapter that I bring before you. It is the first chapter of Daniel, and it is full of valuable instruction. You can read further and see how Daniel and his fellows, when tested, endured the test. There was presented a dream, and the king could not get hold of the meaning because the dream and the interpretation had departed from him. He was going to kill all the wise men and astrologers if they could not tell him his dream and the interpretation thereof. Well, an angel of God interpreted the dream to Daniel so that he could give it to the people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 85, 1910

Berkeley, California

August 20, 1910

Previously unpublished.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 1

“In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure-house of his god.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 2

“And the king spake unto Asphenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king’s seed, and of the princes; children in whom was no blemish, but well favored, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king’s meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them for three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 3

“Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abed-nego.” [Daniel 1:1-7.]

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 4

The king of Babylon changed the names of these captive youth, in harmony with his general policy of changing former conditions with which they had been familiar, so as to gain a controlling influence over the minds.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 5

“But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Now God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 6

“Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat and water to drink. Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.” [Verses 8-13.]

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 7

This was a very short space of time in which to make the test; but the Hebrew youth were willing to venture it, even in that short time.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 8

So Melzar “consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days. And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat. Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.” [Verses 14-16.]

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 9

And what was the result?

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 10

“As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Verse 17.]

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 11

From this experience we may learn that we may all preserve our spirituality, if we hold firmly to the position that we will not live in harmony with the world’s wrong habits and practices, but that we will walk in the path of self-denial. Thus we may keep unobstructed the channel of communication between us and heaven, and there will be given us the strength and the power we need in order to understand the Scriptures and the deep movings of the Spirit of God.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 12

The four Hebrew captives knew that by co-operating with God they would be enabled to maintain a close relationship with Him, and their senses would not become perverted. They did all in their power to keep their mental faculties in the best possible condition.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 13

It is the privilege, yes, the duty of every soul before me today to give careful study to the principles of health and temperance in the daily life. Those who do this will learn how to keep their brain nerve power in a healthy condition, and will be able to distinguish between truth and righteousness. And this means everything to those who are striving to gain life eternal.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 14

Those who place themselves in right relation to God are learners in the school of Christ. Daily they are learning what the Lord requires of them. Daily they stand in such a position before God that they are able to discern between light and darkness. Time is short. Earth’s history is soon to close. There is no time now to indulge in perverted appetite, or to be anxious all the while about the cares of this life. This is a time when all should seek to stand in right relationship with God. It is truth and righteousness that enables men and women to distinguish between light and darkness.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 15

“Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat.” [Verse 8.] He well knew what effect the food served on the royal tables would have on his physical and mental powers, if he were to partake of it. And so he purposed in his heart not to do it. Herein he revealed his loyalty to right principles. How many there are today who would say: “It would be a wise policy for us to forego our personal ideas, and try to come into harmony with the customs of the country into which we have been brought through no choice of our own”?

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 16

How many there are who would think best to try to live as nearly as possible like the other students with whom they were to be associated in school life! But not so with Daniel and his three companions. They determined to be true to the God of their fathers, even while living in a strange land and surrounded with all the seductive influences of court life in the palace of the king.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 17

The record of the experiences of Daniel and his faithful associates reveals the outcome of their determination to be true to God. “God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs,” and the request was granted for a simple diet for ten days, as a test; and at the end the time appointed “their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat. Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.” [Verses 9, 12-16.]

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 18

The result is told in the words of the next few verses:

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 19

“As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 20

“And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm. And Daniel continued even unto the first year of Cyrus.” [Verses 17-21.]

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 21

The Hebrew youth who were faithful to right principles of temperance reform were, in the providence of God, raised to positions of high honor in the Babylonian Empire. They were placed where they could have large influence. Never would they have been exalted to these positions had they not refused to indulge.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 22

There is much comprehended in temperance reform. Right habits of eating and drinking have a great deal to do with right habits of thinking. A large variety of food taken at one meal has its sure effect on the brain.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 23

God’s cause today is in need of faithful men and women whose purpose it is to be true to Him under every circumstance of life. Every believer is to occupy some position of usefulness in the Lord’s work. Some may act a humble part in a line of work that is easily understood. Others may be able to carry larger responsibilities. All are to act as laborers together with God. Everyone is to trade upon the talents lent him of the Lord, and preserve his body blameless.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 24

But if every one was in that position where parents would understand how to treat their children, we should see a very different complexion upon the countenances. We should see a very different understanding as it is represented here by the course of keeping out of their mouths and out of their stomachs things that would quarrel.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 25

We put a great deal too much of different kinds of food into our stomach when we set out our table. Let us have one class of food in the morning, and another at noon. But don’t have half a dozen kinds of things in your stomach at once. That stomach will rebel. Then you hear the complaint, Somehow my head aches, and somehow I have trouble. Well, you just try self-denial, and see what you can do in the line of self-denial in eating and in drinking, and in every way possible you do your duty. Do what you can to preserve health.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 26

I am glad to see today that the ladies now have very simple habits in their dress. It is very nice. I feel thankful to God when I see them with their worsted dresses, just straight down and plain. Hold to it. Don’t get rid of it for some other kind of a fashion. When you get a good fashion, hold it. It is simple; it is just as God would have it. He wants you to be simple in dress. He doesn’t want you to put on your bodies those things which will be a detriment to your influence, if you intend to work for the salvation of souls, because they will imitate you.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 27

And now we want every dollar, and we want every particle of health that He can give us, for there are schools being established, and on the right order. There should not be a large company in one school. Never. Cut up the school, and let it be under teachers that can take care of them, and that can understand and read from cause to effect. What we want is intelligence in teachers; what we want are those who can work with their students in taking the Bible in its simplicity and present the Word to their students.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 28

I talked to them in Lodi, gave them an hour. I talked to them in other places, in Mountain View, and gave them an hour three or four times over. And I felt as though the little intelligence that was manifested on these occasions was tremendous. It was tremendous to me, for it has kept me out of that work. I dared not speak to the public; and I have just come on a venture today.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 29

I dared not venture to speak in all that time; it was quite a good many weeks ago; but I suffered tremendously with the heat inside. It was cold outside, very cold; but inside there were the stoves, and having to draw in those heated, poisonous breaths from the big crowds which packed in houses of worship, it seemed to me I could not get through it. But I talked my hour four times; I stood it. But I have not been able to stand, or dare to venture, but two or three times since. I was afraid for my life. But it need not have been thus at all.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 30

If men and women would just take care, and see that they place themselves in the right position, it would be well. I could not help myself. They had gotten the house heated up so, because of the cold, not realizing that all these breaths were giving the heat, poisoning the atmosphere for the speaker. It has cut me away from my work for months. That is what it has done. And I want to tell you, God wants us to have a little more common sense, and He wants us to have that common sense sanctified to His service.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 31

Now I did not expect to speak about this out here today, but I felt that I must give something on this line. We can do for ourselves what nobody else can do for us. We can deny our appetites; and the father and the mother that have children, in the place of indulging them, talk with them; tell them what effect this would have on their stomach; what effect the other would have; because you have learned it. You have got to learn it.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 32

Now these young men had been brought up in just that way, to fill some office of usefulness as long as they lived. That was the work they were to carry out; and therefore they made these conditions.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 33

You can do very much for yourselves, in placing yourselves with a clear mind, and in right relation to God, to deny the indulgences that will be brought in. Oh, continually it will be, indulge, indulge, indulge, in eating, in drinking, and in dressing. But our ladies, with the exception of the hat part of it, I think are doing excellently well. And I want to tell you that I look upon simple dress, not full, but simple dress that you wear—I look upon that dress as very becoming, and I believe God looks upon it in the same light. Well, let us, every one, speak an encouraging word to a fashion that shall come in to be right; let us approve of it.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 34

Well now, we want to place ourselves in right relation to a community, and we want to place ourselves in right relation to God. We want to be in that position where our intelligence shall be educated. Now remember that. It belongs to every one of us to make the very best use of our intellect, that we may help others in the same direction. Let every jot of our influence go on the right side of the question, and then we will see that there will be reformations in our churches.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 35

Now we want the truth to spread all through our cities here, all around, and wherever we go we want to bear the clear, decided testimony of what God approves.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 36

When we get in right connection with God, His blessings will rest upon our efforts, because our course of action will not deny the truth that we profess.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 37

No wine, no beer, no rum, nothing that can disturb our brain. We want a temperance meeting on these grounds, and pledges taken. Let alone everything like fermented liquors, or drink. Let it alone; and do let us try to consider that this body is of some account to us, and it is some account to the community. If we will carry out our simple principles, we will certainly have time that we can open the Scriptures to those that shall be in different houses.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 38

Do you know your neighbors? Have you learned about them? Have you visited them? Have you tried to present before them that life which measures with the life of God? Have you tried to instruct them in the precious words of truth that God has given us?

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 39

Now I feel intensely over this matter. I thought I should go on to some other striking things, but I am not going to in this discourse, because I want to speak again. And I do not want to weary myself as I have done, and then have to lay aside for months, and to suffer, impossible to sleep, because of the situation. But we will change the situation another time.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 40

I want to say, I thank God that we can have air here! Praise His holy name! And I am so grateful to the Lord for all the privileges that He has given me. I will rejoice with heart, and I will rejoice with soul, and I will rejoice with my common sense that I can say, Arrange things, that they will have an influence on those that are around me. What we want is religion. What we want is acknowledgment from on high, and we can have it.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 41

(Daniel 2): “And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him. Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to show the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king. And the king said unto them, I have dreamed a dream, and my spirit was troubled to know the dream.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 42

“Then spake the Chaldeans to the king in Syriack, O king, live forever: tell thy servants the dream, and we will show the interpretation. The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill. But if ye show the dream, and the interpretation thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honor: therefore show me the dream, and the interpretation thereof.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 43

“They answered again and said, Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will show the interpretation of it. The king answered and said, I know of certainty that ye would gain the time, because ye see the thing is gone from me. But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be changed: therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye can show me the interpretation thereof.” [Verses 1-9.]

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 44

Well now, as we read on, we find that the Lord came right in to His servants. They were to be destroyed. They were going to kill them all, and Daniel with them; but the Lord gave the interpretation, and they understood it, and therefore their lives were spared.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 45

I am not going to go any farther in this chapter, but I will speak again of some other things. I want to tell you, we do not arise to our high positions to have intercourse with that power that is above us, which is Jesus Christ. We want to understand the truth that will stand the test of trial and of judgment. We want to know what is truth. If you study, you will find that God requires every soul of us to keep His commandments. And His commandments are wisdom; and it is truth in righteousness. We want that every one should come into right relation with God, and your eating and your drinking are to come into that position that you are an example in your home.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 46

The smoking, the using of tobacco, it is poison, it is poison. But here intelligent men will put into their lips this poison, and then they will scold, and then they will fret in their houses. What you want is to let tobacco alone. In all cases it is a poison. I know what I am talking about.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 47

We have had to work, to go out and open various places for settlements, and the blessing of God has rested upon us and upon them. I went several miles to visit that new country, that had been poisoned by tobacco. The gray-headed father and mother were apportioning little spots to leave their children. They had been converted to the truth. We had sent our teachers, and they were converted. And now, they questioned, what shall we do with the children?

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 48

Well, the gray-headed father took me and led me around to see the little spot of a farm they had, that they were going to divide up to these children. But, said they, “It is so hard to get out the poison of the tobacco that they have been cultivating; it is so hard. The ground is poisoned; and now we have to work with all our might to get this poison out, if we can, and settle the wives right on this place.”

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 49

There were two or three married women and their young men, noble-looking young men, to go out and carry the gospel to the regions beyond to those that have never heard it.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 50

Here is the tobacco that they are smoking, and they are chewing. Did God want them to do it? No, indeed; He wants us to warn the world of what they may be and what they may do. We are to come right to them in the gospel message and tell them, Every power of your being belongs to God. You are robbing God of the very work you should give to Him. Tell them that Jesus Christ has given His most precious life to a shameful death, to the crucifixion, that He might stand in relation to the world as their Redeemer, to come here and preach the gospel to all nations, and that He might save them.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 51

When we were in the South, we went into Nashville, and went around into the different places, and there we saw what might be—we saw what might be; we saw that the trees might be cultivated, and that they might be beautiful farms; but farm after farm was passed by—poisoned with tobacco raising.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 52

We want all to understand that we must take the platform, and we must talk to the people, good common sense. What we want is religion. What our family wants is a crucified and risen Saviour; and what your young men want is to become acquainted with Him. Put them right into the schools. We have one here in St. Helena, just a few miles from where I live. I have spoken to them several times; and we want that these schools should be built up upon the very highest principles, so that they shall not have that education to destroy instead of to build up. We want heaven; we want eternal life; we want that life that measures with the life of God, and we can have it if we will follow on to know the Lord, that we may know His goings forth are prepared as the morning.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 53

And you should see what delight these people had. They had my books, Patriarchs and Prophets and Great Controversy, that we had sent to them in these lands. Now, said I, you go around. You get all you can to listen to the truth. Write to me, and I will furnish the books that shall give them the knowledge. I have the books upon every point they should have, And we sent them books (to Portland).

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 54

They were getting ready to meet -----, and one old lady they wanted to introduce to me. She came out with Patriarchs and Prophets in her hand. “Well,” said I, “do you feel that you understand that book?” “I am trying to,” said she, “and I am making progress in it. Why, it is wonderful, wonderful.” “Yes,” said I, “it is because it had come from a wonderful God. He has given light on these subjects.”

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 55

Now, I want all these books circulated. I have given packages of books to those who were teaching school, that they could teach their students the principles that the Lord would have them to do. We want to be fitting up for heaven, and we want every one of you to be fitting up for heaven. There is a heaven to win, there is a hell to shun. If you stand and take your position as one intelligent human subject, you may have to overcome habits and practices, but God will give you strength. God will help you in every movement you make on the right. Let the light shine in the hearts and minds and souls of your children.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 56

What are we doing to our world? What are you doing to bring light to your neighbors? Are you letting them alone, or are you going to them with Bible in hand, showing them, just as I have been showing you, how God works with humanity and humanity works with God; and thereby the light of heaven will come into every place on earth.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 57

What we want in this world is means. Well, then don’t spend means for things that you can do without, but invest it in talking to your neighbors. Don’t say, I don’t know what their names are, and what they believe, for you are to find out. You are ministers of the Master; you can teach others the way of salvation. You cannot afford to lose precious moments, but take hold of the work and labor with every power of your being.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 58

I am now nearly 83 years old; I shall be, after November 26, 83 years old. Yet night after night, night after night, I cannot sleep for hours; I am wrestling with God in prayer that He will open the eyes of the people to their opportunities if they can only improve them, to have a life that measures with the life of God in the heavenly courts. Do you want it? If you do, act your own individual part. The Lord wants us to come into line, and He will work with us and He will work by us and He will work through us.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 59

Now I want to say, We are going to do the very best we can in these meeting; we are going to see people converted; and we are going to see those right in our own ranks that shall come out and take a decided stand to labor with us in our work. We want heaven. We want to honor God. We want to present Christ.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 60

The Son of God has given His own precious life that they might be saved. Will we help Him? Will we help our Saviour? Will we teach those that are around us, our neighbors, to lay hold upon the hope set before them in the gospel, which is an eternal life of happiness in the kingdom of God? Can you talk it? Can you work it out before them, so that they will understand it, that every foolish habit that takes money must be given up? You want that money for the school.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 61

We have a school out here about six or eight miles from our sanitarium; and we want that school to prosper; but we have got to have help. We have got to have strength. It is right in the most beautiful settlement right in the woods; and we have advantages of every kind. But they could not hold it, because they were imposed upon by the community from the cities that would come out and be treated and yet give nothing for it.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 62

And now we want to say that that place needs help, and we mean to give it, and if anyone has change that they want to put in the cause, they can give it to help that place now. They need help, and God will help them. The grace of God will be given to those who have means, and your means will work to the salvation of souls around you. They are doing everything they can. They work their school hours and then they work their own hours to build their houses themselves.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 63

Well, they are a little bit discouraged, and I want to tell you that Christ wants them to look up. You tell them so, you ministers. You tell them so, Brother Irwin, and you that know them; you just tell them to look up in faith. You touch the hem of Christ’s garments. You ask the Lord to let His blessing come upon these schools. Why, you see, to buy these schools, it costs something; but we are going to have them out of the cities, not in the cities. It is going to be out of the cities. These cities will be a hard place in a little while—all the wickedness that will be developed.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 64

We want every soul of you to take your position now in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, and we want you to go to work for the Master. We are working for the saving of souls. You can do it. You can act your part to your neighbors. You can go in and talk with them; you can pray with them; you can open the Scriptures to them. That is the very thing that will help your religious life, and it will give you a confidence in the One that heareth prayer.

25LtMs, Ms 85, 1910, par. 65

We want souls. It is souls that we are laboring for. We want men and women to be converted; and those that have means to expend it as I have expended mine, and am expending it all the time in the book making, and in every way possible, that I may bring souls to Christ. I want light, life, light for the righteous; I want light to win souls to Jesus Christ; and just as long as God sees fit to spare my life, I will bear the message of mercy to the world. May the Lord bless you.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 126, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, par. 2

I stood the journey to the school well, and the next morning I thought that I would test my strength by speaking in the chapel. The room was well filled, and I spoke for an hour without any sense of weariness, presenting portions of the first, second, and third chapters of the book of Daniel. I dwelt particularly on the deliverance of the three Hebrews from the fiery furnace.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 93, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 93, 1910, par. 3

We visited last Sabbath the Angwin place where our school is located. Elder Corliss was present. Opened the meeting with prayer. We were pleased to see the number of students, all intelligent and promising. I spoke from Daniel 1. I was very thankful to have this privilege and to see the buildings so well occupied. Let all our schools improve the lesson given in this chapter. All our schools have lessons to come home to [the students], to practice self-denial in their eating and drinking. We can see in the book of Daniel that the Lord gives an important account of the history of these three youth. Please read this chapter until you have the facts of what gain there is in self-denial of appetite. Let all our students take in the lesson that the Lord is honored and glorified in the students who are on trial to excel in the line of brain power, seeking knowledge.

From Splendor to Shadow

Chapter 39—Daniel a Captive in Babylon

SS 248.1

Among the children of Israel carried captive to Babylon were men as true as steel to principle, men who would honor God at the loss of all things. In the land of their captivity these were to carry out God’s purposes as His representatives. Their faith and their name as worshipers of the living God they were to bear as a high honor.

SS 248.2

The fact that they were captives and that the vessels of God’s house had been placed in the temple of the Babylonish gods was cited by the victors as evidence that their religion was superior to that of the Hebrews. Yet God gave Babylon evidence of His supremacy, of the holiness of His requirements, and of the sure results of obedience.

SS 248.3

Daniel and his three companions were illustrious examples of what men may become who unite with God. From the simplicity of their home, these youth of royal line were taken to the most magnificent of cities and into the court of the world’s greatest monarch. They were “children in whom was no blemish, but well favored, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science.”

SS 248.4

Seeing in these youth remarkable ability, Nebuchadnezzar determined that they should be trained to fill important positions. He arranged for them to learn the language of the Chaldeans and for three years to be granted the unusual educational advantages afforded princes of the realm.

SS 249.1

The king did not compel the Hebrew youth to renounce their faith in favor of idolatry, but he hoped to bring this about gradually.

SS 249.2

By giving them names significant of idolatry, by bringing them daily into close association with idolatrous customs, and under the influence of the seductive rites of heathen worship, he hoped to induce them to renounce their religion and to unite with the worship of the Babylonians.

SS 249.3

At the very outset there came a decisive test of character. It was provided that they should eat the food and drink the wine that came from the king’s table. In this the king thought to express his solicitude for their welfare. But the food from the king’s table was consecrated to idolatry, and partaking of it would be regarded as offering homage to the gods of Babylon. In such homage, Daniel and his companions would deny their faith and dishonor the principles of the law of God. Nor dared they risk the enervating effect of luxury and dissipation on physical, mental, and spiritual development. They were acquainted with the intemperance of Nadab and Abihu and its results and knew that their own physical and mental powers would be injuriously affected by wine.

SS 249.4

Daniel and his associates had been taught that God would hold them accountable for their capabilities and that they must never dwarf or enfeeble their powers. Strong were the temptations in that corrupt and luxurious court, but they remained uncontaminated. No influence could sway them from the principles they had learned in early life by a study of the Word and works of God.

SS 249.5

Daniel might have found a plausible excuse for departing from strictly temperate habits. He might have argued that should he adhere to the divine teaching, he would offend the king and probably lose his position and his life. If he should disregard the commandment of the Lord he would secure intellectual advantages and flattering worldly prospects.

SS 250.1

But Daniel did not hesitate. He determined to stand firm. He “purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank.” In this he was supported by his three companions.

SS 250.2

In reaching this decision the Hebrew youth did not act presumptuously. They did not choose to be singular, but they would be so rather than dishonor God. The first wrong step would lead to others, until, their connection with Heaven severed, they would be swept away by temptation.

SS 250.3

“God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs,” and the request was received with respect. Yet the prince hesitated. “I fear my lord the king,” he explained to Daniel, “for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.”

SS 250.4

Daniel then appealed to Melzar, the officer in special charge of the Hebrew youth. He asked that the matter be tested by a ten days’ trial, the Hebrew youth being supplied with simple food, while their companions ate the king’s dainties.

SS 250.5

Melzar, though fearful, consented. At the end of ten days, the result was the opposite of the prince’s fears. “Their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat.” As a result, Daniel and his associates were permitted their simple diet during their entire course of training.

SS 250.6

For three years the Hebrew youth studied, depending constantly on God’s power. It was not pride or ambition that had brought them to the king’s court; they were captives in a strange land. Separated from home, they sought to acquit themselves creditably, for the honor of their downtrodden people and for the glory of Him whose servants they were.

SS 251.1

The Lord regarded with approval their purity of motive, and He “gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” The promise was fulfilled, “Them that honor Me I will honor.” 1 Samuel 2:30. While receiving instruction from man in the duties of court life, Daniel was being taught by God to read the mysteries of the future and to record for coming generations, through figures and symbols, events covering history till the close of time.

SS 251.2

When the time came for the Hebrew youth to be examined for the service of the kingdom, “among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.” Their keen comprehension, their wide knowledge, their exact language, testified to the unimpaired strength and vigor of their mental powers. “Therefore stood they before the king.”

SS 251.3

At the court of Babylon were gathered from all lands men of the highest talent, richly endowed with natural gifts, and possessed of the broadest culture the world could bestow. Among them all, the Hebrew youth were without a peer in physical strength, mental vigor, and literary attainment. The erect form, the firm step, the fair countenance, the undimmed senses, the untainted breath—all were insignia of the nobility with which nature honors those who are obedient to her laws.

SS 251.4

In acquiring the wisdom of the Babylonians, Daniel and his companions were far more successful than their fellow students. They obtained their knowledge under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, making the knowledge of God the foundation of their education. They prayed for wisdom, and they improved every opportunity to become intelligent in all lines of learning. They followed the rules of life that could not fail to give them strength of intellect. Constantly praying, conscientiously studying, keeping in touch with the Unseen, they walked with God as did Enoch.

SS 252.1

True success in any line of work is not the result of chance or accident or destiny. It is the outworking of God’s providences, the reward of faith and discretion, of virtue and perseverance. Fine mental qualities and a high moral tone are not the result of accident. God gives opportunities; success depends on the use made of them.

SS 252.2

Herein is revealed the divine principle of cooperation. To make God’s grace our own, we must act our part. His grace is given to work in us to will and to do, but never as a substitute for our effort.

SS 252.3

As the Lord cooperated with Daniel, so He will cooperate with all who strive to do His will. By His Spirit He will strengthen every true purpose, every noble resolution. Those who walk in the path of obedience will encounter many hindrances, but the Lord is able to render futile every agency that works for the defeat of His chosen ones. In His strength they may overcome every temptation, conquer every difficulty.

SS 252.4

God brought Daniel and his associates into connection with the great men of Babylon that they might represent His character. Faithfulness in little things gave complexion to their whole life. They honored God in the smallest duties as well as in larger responsibilities.

SS 252.5

As God called Daniel He calls us to be His witnesses in the world today. He desires us to reveal the principles of His kingdom. Many are waiting for some great work while daily they fail of discharging with wholeheartedness the little duties of life. While they wait for some large work in which they may exercise supposedly great talents, their days pass away. We shall be judged by what we ought to have done but did not accomplish because we did not use our powers to glorify God.

SS 252.6

A noble character is not the result of accident; it is the result of self-discipline, of subjection of the lower to the higher nature, of the surrender of self to the service of God and man.

SS 253.1

Today there is need of men who like Daniel will do and dare for the cause of right. Pure hearts, strong hands, fearless courage are needed. To every soul Satan comes with temptation in many alluring forms on the point of indulgence of appetite.

SS 253.3

The Hebrew worthies were men of like passions with ourselves; yet they stood firm, because they depended on a strength that is infinite. In them a heathen nation beheld an illustration of the beneficence of God and the love of Christ. And in their experience we have an instance of the triumph of principle over temptation, of purity over depravity, of devotion and loyalty over atheism and idolatry.

SS 253.4

The youth of today may draw from the same source of strength, and reveal the same grace in their lives, even under circumstances as unfavorable. Though surrounded by temptations, especially in large cities where sensual gratification is made easy and inviting, by divine grace they may withstand every temptation that assails the soul. But only by him who determines to do right will the victory be gained.

SS 254.1

As these noble Hebrews bade farewell to their childhood home, little did they dream what a high destiny was to be theirs. They yielded to the divine guiding so that through them God could fulfill His purpose!

SS 254.2

The life of Daniel and his fellows is a demonstration of what God will do for youth and children today who yield themselves to Him and with the whole heart seek to accomplish His purpose.

From Splendor to Shadow

The Secret of Daniel’s Success

SS 253.2

The body is a most important medium through which the mind and soul are developed for the upbuilding of character. Hence the adversary directs his temptations to enfeebling and degrading the physical powers. Success here often means the surrender of the whole being to evil. The tendencies of the physical nature, unless under the dominion of a higher power, will work ruin and death. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified by grace, is to bear sway in the life. Intellectual power, physical stamina, and length of life depend upon immutable laws. Through obedience to these laws, man may stand conqueror of himself, conqueror of his own inclinations, conqueror of “the rulers of the darkness of this world.” Ephesians 6:12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 9, 1882

3LtMs, Ms 9, 1882, par. 5

Spoke in San Francisco under the tent on temperance. Daniel, first chapter, was my text.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 29, 1887

5LtMs, Ms 29, 1887, par. 28

At half-past seven the seats were well filled, and I spoke to an interested company upon the subject of temperance. The Lord gave me great freedom in speaking, and I am requested to speak again upon the same subject this evening [Sunday]. My text was the first chapter of Daniel. Those present listened with intense interest.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 139, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 139, 1896, par. 3

I am very anxious to get out Testimony No. 34 now. I have secured Eliza’s help. I will undertake that work which ought to have been done years ago. I have things that should come to the people. Time is short. The end of all things is at hand. We are to give more diligent searching to Revelation. Here is a book opened for those who shall live in these last days of time. Daniel and Revelation are the books applicable to us and should be carefully studied and with much prayer. Read the first three verses:

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 32, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 3

The book that was sealed was not the book of Revelation, but that portion of the prophecy of Daniel which related to the last days. The Scripture says, “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” [Daniel 12:4.] When the book was opened, the proclamation was made, “Time shall be no longer.” [Revelation 10:6.] The book of Daniel is now unsealed, and the revelation made by Christ to John is to come to all the inhabitants of the earth. By the increase of knowledge a people is to be prepared to stand in the latter days.

11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 14

All that God has in prophetic history specified to be fulfilled in the past has been, and all that is yet to come in its order will be. Daniel, God’s prophet, stands in his place. John stands in his place. In the Revelation the Lion of the tribe of Judah has opened to the students of prophecy the book of Daniel, and thus is Daniel standing in his place. He bears his testimony, that which the Lord revealed to him in vision of the great and solemn events which we must know as we stand on the very threshold of their fulfillment.

11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 25

The very same Satan is at work to undermine the faith of the people of God at this time. There are persons ready to catch up every new idea. The prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are misinterpreted. These persons do not consider that the truth has been set forth at the appointed time by the very men whom God was leading <to do this special work.> These men followed on step by step in the <very fulfillment> of prophecy, and those who have not had a personal experience in this work are to take the Word of God and believe on “their word” [John 17:20] who have been led by the Lord in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. These messages, received and acted upon, are doing their work to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. If we search the Scriptures to confirm the truth God has given His servants for the world, we shall be found proclaiming the first, second, and third angels’ messages.

11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, par. 38

Prophecy has been fulfilling, line upon line. The more firmly we stand under the banner of the third angel’s message, the more clearly shall we understand the prophecy of Daniel, for the Revelation is the supplement of Daniel. The more fully we accept the light presented by the Holy Spirit through the consecrated servants of God, the deeper and surer, even as the eternal throne, will appear the truths of ancient prophecy; we shall be assured that men of God spake as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost. Men must themselves be under the influence of the Holy Spirit in order to understand the Spirit’s utterances through the prophets. These messages were given, not for those that uttered the prophecies, but for us who are living amid the scenes of their fulfillment.