EGW WritingsHosea 6

With God at Dawn

The Lord Will Heal and Bind Us Up, May 23

WGD 145.1

Come, and let us return unto the Lord; for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. Hosea 6:1.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 23, 1885

4LtMs, Lt 23, 1885, par. 55

I have not in this message any comfort to give to Satan. The arrows of the Almighty must wound you so sorely that you will feel that you need a physician. “I have torn,” saith God, “and I will heal; I have smitten and I will bind you up.” [Hosea 6:1.] When you come, meek and lowly, then Jesus will pardon your transgressions. I charge you not to leave this house till the power of the enemy is broken.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 18, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 18, 1901, par. 20

Again I say to you, Take not one step farther in the course you have planned. Leave not one door open for the temptation to inflict harm on God’s institutions. O that I could hear you, my brother, saying from the heart, “Come, and let us return unto the Lord; for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.” [Hosea 6:1.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1410—Do Not Establish Business Interests in Large Cities; Live Outside the Cities

19MR 337.1

“Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth” [Hosea 6:1-3].

From Splendor to Shadow

Hosea’s Gracious Appeals

SS 152.3

The transgressors were given many opportunities to repent. In their hour of deepest apostasy God’s message was one of forgiveness and hope. “O Israel,” He declared, “thou hast destroyed thyself; but in Me is thine help. I will be thy King: where is any other that may save thee?” Hosea 13:9, 10. “Come, and let us return unto the Lord,” the prophet entreated, “for He hath torn, and He will heal us ... . Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:1-3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 76, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 76, 1905, par. 15

“Come, let us return unto the Lord; for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten and He will bind us up. After two days will He receive us; in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:1-3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 50, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, par. 26

“Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:1-3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 106, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 106, 1902, par. 26

“O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. ... Come, and let us return unto the Lord, for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days He will revive us; in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the former and the latter rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:4, 1-3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 101, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, par. 39

Selfishness and covetousness have been mingled with all parts of the Lord’s work, defiling it and dishonoring Him. Let this great evil be purged from His cause. “Hear the word of the Lord, ye children of Israel; for the Lord hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth nor mercy nor knowledge of God in the land.” “O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth; and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” [Hosea 4:1; 6:4-6.]

16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, par. 41

“Come, and let us return unto the Lord; for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. ... Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall be unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Verses 1, 3.]

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 23—The Assyrian Captivity

PK 281.2

There were times when the judgments of Heaven fell very heavily on the rebellious people. “I hewed them by the prophets,” God declared; “I have slain them by the words of My mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against Me.” Hosea 6:5-7.

PK 283.2

“Come, and let us return unto the Lord,” the prophet entreated; “for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:1-3.

PK 285.1

From generation to generation the Lord had borne with His wayward children, and even now, in the face of defiant rebellion, He still longed to reveal Himself to them as willing to save. “O Ephraim,” He cried, “what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away.” Hosea 6:4.

The Review and Herald

February 5, 1914

RH February 5, 1914, par. 1

Full of significance are the words of the prophet, “Like people, like priest.” Hosea 4:9. The idolatrous priests were leaders in crime. “As troops of robbers wait for a man, so the company of priests murder in the way by consent.” Hosea 6:9. “Blood toucheth blood.” Verse 2. God’s message to the murderous priests was: “Hear ye this, O priests, ... for judgment is toward you, because ye have been a snare on Mizpah, a net spread upon Tabor. And the revolters are profound to make slaughter, though I have been a rebuker of them all.” Hosea 5:1, 2. Everywhere violence and crime reigned supreme.

RH February 5, 1914, par. 6

“Come, and let us return unto the Lord,” the prophet entreated; “for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up. After two days will he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:1-3.

RH February 5, 1914, par. 13

From generation to generation the Lord bore with his wayward children, until he could do no more for them. “O Ephraim,” he cried, “what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away.” Hosea 6:4.

Testimony for the Church — No. 27

Jeremiah.

T27 42.1

He entreated them to hear the words that he spoke. He cited them to the prophecies of Hosea, Habakuk, Zephaniah, and others whose messages of reproof and warning had been similar to his own. He referred them to events which had transpired in their history in fulfillment of the prophecies of retribution for unrepented sins. Sometimes, as in this case, men had arisen in opposition to the message of God, and predicted peace and prosperity, to quiet the fears of the people, and gain the favor of those in high places. But in every past instance the judgment of God had been visited upon Israel, as the true prophets had indicated. Said he “The prophet which prophesieth of peace, when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known that the Lord hath truly sent him.” If Israel chose to run the risk, future developments would effectually decide which was the false prophet.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 110, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 110, 1893, par. 13

The end of all things is at hand and iniquity abounds, because men have transgressed the law and broken the everlasting covenant given on condition of obedience, and because of continual transgression. Isaiah 59; Ezekiel 20:12, 18; Amos 5:11-20; Micah 6:6-15; Haggai 1:5, 6; Hosea 6:1-11; 8:12, 13; Joel 1:2-7, 11-20. There we have the prophecies of the state of our world just prior to the second coming of the Lord thy God. The world will become more and [more] under the sway of seducing spirits as they turn away from God and His righteous government. Men professing godliness will indulge their own traits of character. Unless they are conscientiously under the control of God, they will become self-indulgent and self-centered.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 82, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 82, 1895, par. 1

Sabbath, October 19, the gathering at the tent was larger than we expected, as in the forenoon meetings were held by our people in the different churches. Hereafter all will come to the ground on Sabbath and Sunday. In the forenoon Brother Corliss spoke from Hosea words that were full of instruction. I spoke in the afternoon from the fourth [chapter] of John: “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” [Verse 10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 163, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 163, 1897, par. 24

Read chapters four and six of the prophet Hosea. Those who trample upon God’s law make human laws which they will force the people to accept. Men will devise and counsel and plan what they will do. The whole world keeps Sunday, they say, and why should not this people, who are so few in number, do according to the laws of the land? Because they are blinded by error, because they take their words from the lips of the priests and the human law makers, they suppose that it does not matter if they do not keep the law of God instituted in Eden, when the foundations of the earth were laid, and all the sons of God shouted for joy. God’s memorial was then given to man, that he might honor the name of the living God who made the world in six days and sanctified and blessed the day of His rest.

A Word to the Little Flock

Dear Brother Bates

WLF 18.4

And I saw that if God had changed the Sabbath, from the seventh to the first day, He would have changed the writing of the Sabbath commandment, written on the tables of stone, which are now in the ark, in the Most Holy Place of the Temple in heaven; [Revelation 11:19.] and it would read thus: the first day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God. But I saw that it read the same as when written on the tables of stone by the finger of God, and delivered to Moses in Sinai, “But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God.” [Exodus 20:10.] I saw that the holy Sabbath is, and will be, the separating wall between the true Israel of God and unbelievers; and that the Sabbath is the great question, to unite the hearts of God’s dear waiting saints. And if one believed, and kept the Sabbath, and received the blessing attending it, and then gave it up, and broke the holy commandment, they would shut the gates of the Holy City against themselves, as sure as there was a God that rules in heaven above. I saw that God had children, who do not see and keep the Sabbath. They had not rejected the light on it. And at the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth [Hosea 6:2, 3.] and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully. This enraged the church, and nominal Adventists, as they could not refute the Sabbath truth. And at this time, God’s chosen, all saw clearly that we had the truth, and they came out and endured the persecution with us. And I saw the sword, famine, pestilence, and great confusion in the land. [Ezekiel 7:10-19. 2 Esdras 15:5-27] The wicked thought that we had brought the judgments down on them. They rose up and took counsel to rid the earth of us, thinking that then the evil would be stayed. [2 Esdras 16:68-74.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 3—“First the Blade, Then the Ear”

COL 66.1

The plant grows by receiving that which God has provided to sustain its life. It sends down its roots into the earth. It drinks in the sunshine, the dew, and the rain. It receives the life-giving properties from the air. So the Christian is to grow by co-operating with the divine agencies. Feeling our helplessness, we are to improve all the opportunities granted us to gain a fuller experience. As the plant takes root in the soil, so we are to take deep root in Christ. As the plant receives the sunshine, the dew, and the rain, we are to open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. The work is to be done “not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6. If we keep our minds stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. As the Sun of Righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in His wings.” Malachi 4:2. We shall “grow as the lily.” We shall “revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.” Hosea 14:5, 7. By constantly relying upon Christ as our personal Saviour, we shall grow up into Him in all things who is our head.

Our Father Cares

Enlightened to Full Radiance, November 11

OFC 327.1

If we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning. Hosea 6:3.

Our High Calling

Follow on to Know the Lord, February 25

OHC 62.1

Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth. Hosea 6:3.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 58—The Coming of a Deliverer

PK 688.1

With prophetic vision David, the anointed of God, had foreseen that the coming of Christ should be “as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds.” 2 Samuel 23:4. And Hosea testified, “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. Quietly and gently the daylight breaks upon the earth, dispelling the shadow of darkness and waking the earth to life. So was the Sun of Righteousness to arise, “with healing in His wings.” Malachi 4:2. The multitudes dwelling “in the land of the shadow of death” were to see “a great light.” Isaiah 9:2.

Reflecting Christ

Enlightened to Full Radiance, May 25

RC 159.1

If we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning. Hosea 6:3.

Sons and Daughters of God

Going Forth Is Prepared as the Morning, November 24

SD 335.1

Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning. Hosea 6:3.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 52—Young Men in the Ministry

6T 416.1

Follow on, young men, to know the Lord, and you will know that “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. Seek constantly to improve. Strive earnestly for identity with the Redeemer. Live by faith in Christ. Do the work He did. Live for the saving of the souls for whom He laid down His life. Try in every way to help those with whom you come in contact. Strive continually to improve. Let your life fulfill the words: “Thou through Thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies.” Psalm 119:98. Talk with your Elder Brother, who will complete your education, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. A close connection with Him who offered Himself as a sacrifice to save a perishing world will make you acceptable workers. When you can lay your hand on truth and appropriate it, when you can say, “My Lord and my God,” grace and peace and joy in rich measure will be yours.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 55—Transformed by Grace

AA 564.2

It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building that was to be the abiding place of His glory. It is in the mount with God—in the secret place of communion—that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. In all ages, through the medium of communion with heaven, God has worked out His purpose for His children, by unfolding gradually to their minds the doctrines of grace. His manner of imparting truth is illustrated in the words, “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. He who places himself where God can enlighten him, advances, as it were, from the partial obscurity of dawn to the full radiance of noonday.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 26—At Capernaum

DA 261.3

The Sun of Righteousness did not burst upon the world in splendor, to dazzle the senses with His glory. It is written of Christ, “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. Quietly and gently the daylight breaks upon the earth, dispelling the shadow of darkness, and waking the world to life. So did the Sun of Righteousness arise, “with healing in His wings.” Malachi 4:2.

The Faith I Live By

Changed by Beholding, May 24

FLB 150.4

If we keep our minds stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. As the Sun of Righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in his wings.” Malachi 4:2. We shall “grow as the lily.” We shall “revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.” Hosea 14:5, 7. By constantly relying upon Christ as our personal Saviour, we shall grow up into Him in all things who is our head.78Christ’s Object Lessons, 67.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 38—The Final Warning

GC 611.2

The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” Joel 2:23. “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17, 21.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

A Personal Knowledge of Christ

CT 230.3

“Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. As the light of the sun shines with increasing power from morning till noonday, so, as you advance in the opening light of God’s word, you will receive more light.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 38—The Final Warning

GC88 611.1

The work will be similar to that of the day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close, for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord; his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:3.] “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God; for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” [Joel 2:23.] “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” [Acts 2:17, 21.] The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel, are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are “the times of refreshing” to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said, “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out [in the investigative Judgment], when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and he shall send Jesus.” [Acts 3:19, 20.]

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 2—Days of Ministry

MH 32.3

The Sun of Righteousness did not burst upon the world in splendor, to dazzle the senses with His glory. It is written of Christ, “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. Quietly and gently the daylight breaks upon the earth, dispelling the darkness and waking the world to life. So did the Sun of Righteousness arise, “with healing in His wings.” Malachi 4:2.

The Upward Look

Prepared as the Morning, October 10

UL 297.1

Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth. Hosea 6:3.

UL 297.7

The will of God is made so plain that the weakest intellect can understand it, if the heart is set to do the will of God. Those who follow on to know the Lord will know that His going forth is prepared as the morning (see Hosea 6:3). Step by step the Lord will unerringly lead those who put their trust in Him.—Letter 281, October 10, 1905, to Dr. and Mrs. D. H. Kress.

To Be Like Jesus

Consecrate Your Family to God, and Look to Calvary, November 9

BLJ 330.1

Let us know, let us pursue the knowledge of the Lord. His going forth is established as the morning; He will come to us like the rain, like the latter and former rain to the earth. Hosea 6:3, NKJV.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Walking With Him in White, December 20

YRP 363.2

Thank God, He can keep His people in a place where they shall not defile their garments. If we submit to Christ, we shall be kept unspotted from the world. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning” (Hosea 6:3). We are to follow on. We are not to rest content with the capabilities and the knowledge of today. All the inhabitants of the universe are watching, as in these last days God is preparing a people to stand in the judgment. Let us ask God to clothe us with the robe of Christ’s righteousness, that we may be prepared for the coming of the Son of man.

From Here to Forever

The Latter Rain and the Loud Cry

HF 372.1

The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. The “former rain” was given at the opening of the gospel to cause the upspringing of the precious seed; so the “latter rain” will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23. The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are “the times of refreshing” to which the apostle Peter looked forward. Acts 3:19, 20.

From Splendor to Shadow

The True Character of the Messiah Revealed

SS 356.2

With prophetic vision David had foreseen that the coming of Christ should be “as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds.” 2 Samuel 23:4. And Hosea testified, “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. Quietly and gently the daylight breaks on the earth, dispelling the darkness and waking the earth to life. Isaiah exclaimed:

Homeward Bound

What Should We Pray For? May 21

HB 162.4

It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building that was to be the abiding place of His glory. It is in the mount with God—in the secret place of communion—that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. In all ages, through the medium of communion with heaven, God has worked out His purpose for His children, by unfolding gradually to their minds the doctrines of grace. His manner of imparting truth is illustrated in the words, “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” (Hosea 6:3.) All who place themselves where God can enlighten them, advance, as it were, from the partial obscurity of dawn to the full radiance of noonday.

Homeward Bound

The Power of the Latter Rain, November 19

HB 352.1

Let us know, let us pursue the knowledge of the LORD. His going forth is established as the morning; He will come to us like the rain, like the latter and former rain to the earth.—Hosea 6:3.

Education

Sowing in Faith

Ed 106.1

The plant grows by receiving that which God has provided to sustain its life. So spiritual growth is attained through co-operation with divine agencies. As the plant takes root in the soil, so we are to take root in Christ. As the plant receives the sunshine, the dew, and the rain, so are we to receive the Holy Spirit. If our hearts are stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” As the Sun of Righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in His wings.” We shall “grow as the lily.” We “shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine.” Hosea 6:3; Malachi 4:2; Hosea 14:5, 7.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 6, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 6, 1893, par. 13

The Holy Spirit impresses divine truth on every humble, teachable soul and commends the truth to our conscience and judgment. Thus also it is impossible for us to be kept in uncertainty and questioning doubt as to whether we are indeed children of God. It is your privilege to have a deep and living experience in the Christian life. If you will only follow on to know the Lord, “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] From the light which the Lord has given me, that which has seemed to you the most trying experience has been for your best good. You, and every soul, should study most earnestly to have a living connection with the great Source of light, and never be inclined to yield to temptation, to venture to choose an uncertain path which leads to darkness and to unbelief and binds you up in bundles with the unbelieving. We must individually choose whom we will serve.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 2, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 2, 1893, par. 4

There was a certain man that pleased God; a messenger was sent to him—an angel from heaven. See Acts 10:5, 6. Is it possible that God knows just where we live? Cornelius offered prayer with all his offerings. Cornelius did not fully understand the work of Christ—a clearer light was to be given to him, brought by the human agent. The divine agency co-operates with the human agency. We may ignore it; we may reach the world’s standard; if we do, we miss the mark. God can give light. You accept one ray of light, and it prepares the way for another ray of light, “coming forth as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] It is as though gleamings are coming: Just follow on to know the Lord, whose coming forth is as the morning. It will shine brighter til it shines as the sun at noonday.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 49, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 49, 1894, par. 36

But we do not walk fast enough. We take too many back steps. We do not advance heavenward; therefore the light that would have come in glorious rays, could not come to us because we were not prepared for it. We take a step back into the world, [to the] gratifications of earth, and then we take a step toward heaven; and then we take a step back, and then we take a step toward heaven. If you follow on to know the Lord, you shall know that His goings forth are prepared as the morning. You know the morning light first breaks upon us in a very dim light, and then it increases, and it increases in brightness until the king of the day marches in the heavens in all his glory, in all its beauty. “Ye shall know his goings forth are prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] Now if [God’s] glory [were to] shine first upon us as He wants to let it [shine], we could not endure it. Daniel could not endure it. He prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered his prayer. The angel opened before him the great events of the future, the history which is of so much value to us.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 11, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, par. 6

Today, by our associates, by our life, by our character, we are choosing whom we will have as our king. Heavenly intelligences are seeking to draw us to Christ. Will we respond to their drawing, saying, I will follow on to know the Lord, that I may know that “his going forth is prepared as the morning” [Hosea 6:3], or will we let all responsibility drop from our shoulders, forgetful that our own souls are hanging in the balance. God would have us fight manfully the battles of the Lord, wrestling for the victory day by day, that we may keep the faith once delivered to the saints. The Holy Spirit works with those who will be worked, molds those who will be molded, fashions those who will be fashioned. Day by day we are shaping our destiny for eternal life or for perdition.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 75a, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 75a, 1897, par. 1

The words of truth, the sayings of our Lord, which are to be voiced by His servants in the churches, cannot be called a new revelation, but as men come near to God the entrance of the Word of God giveth light; it giveth understanding to the simple, which means to the humble and contrite in heart. This is the result of opening the eyes to behold wondrous things out of His law. The Lord designs that in His revelation of truth in all ages the doctrines of grace should be gradually unfolded to the comprehension of men as is described: “If we follow on to know the Lord” we shall know “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] The treasures of truth are all there in the Word, but are only seen and comprehended by the searches after the truth, from obscurity of dawn in our Lord’s teachings to the radiance of noonday. We have been fully convinced of this fact during these meetings.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 12, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 12, 1897, par. 21

Let all bear in mind that the Lord will not accept half-hearted service. Those who love to do the will of God can do perfect service. Let not the heart that hears the gracious invitation of mercy, “Come, for all things are now ready” [Luke 14:17], still feel to question as to the outcome of the matter, saying, How much shall I have to yield up. You have no arguments on this point. If we follow on to know the Lord, willingly, gladly, we shall know “that his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] If we have decided to obey Christ, we shall respond to His call, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 169, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 169, 1897, par. 9

They that “follow on to know the Lord” shall know that “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” Hosea 6:3. He that is unfaithful in the least will mar his conscience and separate himself from God. Unless he repents, even in the least dishonesty, he will go on in this course of action to become unfaithful in much. No one will now plead ignorance of what constitutes sin. All sin—the least to the greatest sin—is transgression of the law of God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 238, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 238, 1899, par. 11

If we follow on to know the Lord, we shall know “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] We are to appreciate the talents of words, faith, hope, charity. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. ... And of his fulness have we all received, and grace for grace.” [John 1:12-14, 16.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 140, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, par. 54

I have faith to believe you will not stop at the halfway house, but will “follow on to know the Lord,” that you may know “His goings forth are prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] The Lord loves us, and all He asks is that you respond to His love. He is goodness and truth, and we have need to call upon our soul and all that is within us to bless the Lord and praise His holy name. The Lord is good and does not willingly grieve or afflict the children of men, yet we are admonished to “think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you.” [1 Peter 4:12.] The blacksmith puts the iron and steel into the fire to test them, that he [may] know what manner of metal they are. The Lord allows His chosen ones to be placed in the furnace of affliction in order that He may see what temper they are of, and whether He can use them and mold and fashion them for His work. “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” [1 Peter 1:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 91, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, par. 29

Every teacher should gather up all the rays of divine light shining upon his pathway, that he may have the wisdom which Daniel had. Walk in the light which is opening before you in this Institute. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] As the light of the sun shines with increasing power from morning till noon, so as you advance in the opening light of God’s Word, you will receive more light.

God’s Amazing Grace

Like Dew, Rain, and Sunshine, July 8

AG 197.7

The plant grows by receiving that which God has provided to sustain its life. So spiritual growth is attained through cooperation with divine agencies. As the plant takes root in the soil, so we are to take root in Christ. As the plant receives the sunshine, the dew, and the rain, so we are to receive the Holy Spirit. If our hearts are stayed upon Christ, He will come unto us “as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” As the Sun of righteousness, He will arise upon us “with healing in His wings.” We shall “grow as the lily.” We shall “revive as the corn, and grow as the vine” (Hosea 6:3; Malachi 4:2; Hosea 14:5, 7).20Education, 104-106.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 125, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, par. 35

In this age of apostasy, our influence for good depends on our trust in God and our living connection with Him. We should allow no side issues to draw our feet into selfish paths. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] If we do this, we shall increase in earnest, sanctified zeal, and shall be purified from all selfishness. “If we follow on to know the Lord,” we shall know that “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 102, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, par. 6

There is to be continual advancement. “If we follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] I know something about the coming of the morning, for usually I arise at two or three o’clock. If I can, I sleep till three. I am often in a position where I can see the morning as it comes. At first I can see just a little light, which gradually increases. The day is dawning. The light constantly increases, until the sun appears and, rising higher and still higher, shines in glorious splendor—the king of the heavens.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 193, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, par. 7

The operation of leaven is gradual. The leaven of truth is renewed day by day and there is a following on to know the Lord until “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] The God of all grace hath shined in his heart. There is a going on from strength to a greater strength.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 46, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 46, 1902, par. 25

The talent of speech is a most valuable one. When our faces are turned Christward, we receive the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. The Son of God came to the earth with a life- and light-giving message to bear to all that were nigh and all that were afar off. By all people the Herald of truth was to be heard. God draws nigh unto those who draw nigh to Him. When men and women turn to Him, their prayers are indited by the Holy Spirit. As they come to Him with humbleness of mind, confessing their sins and praying sincerely for help, there is a fulfilment of the promise, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 117, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 117, 1902, par. 7

In all ages God has given human beings divine revelations, that thus He may fulfil His purpose of unfolding gradually to the mind the doctrines of grace. His manner of imparting truth is illustrated by the words, “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] He who places himself where God can enlighten him, advances, as it were, from the partial obscurity of dawn to the full radiance of noonday.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 157, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 157, 1903, par. 15

So it may be now. Let Christians put away all dissension and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was the “former rain,” and glorious was the result. [Hosea 6:3.] But the latter rain will be more abundant. What is the promise to those living in these last days?—“Turn ye to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope; even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee. ... Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so shall the Lord make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.” [Zechariah 9:12; 10:1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 21, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 21, 1903, par. 5

“Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments.” [Verse 4.] Thank God, He can keep His people in a place where they shall not defile their garments. If we submit to Christ, we shall be kept unspotted from the world. “Then we shall know, if we follow on to know the Lord, that His goings forth are prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] We are to follow on. We are not to rest content with the capabilities and the knowledge of today. All the inhabitants of the universe are watching, as, in these last days, God is preparing a people to stand in the judgment. Let us ask God to clothe us with the robe of Christ’s righteousness, that we may be prepared for the coming of the Son of man.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 349, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, par. 6

The work that has been accomplished in Los Angeles by means of these tent-meetings is what we may expect to see done in many places. The work has certainly borne the divine credentials. In the reception of the truth, all are not exercised in the same way. In some cases the impression comes in the acknowledgement of their convictions and their determination to leave their sinful life. And they can speak and pray in social meetings. Then a more persuasive work is done in leading others to be reconciled to God. “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 352, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 352, 1908, par. 6

The promise is that if we follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] It is essential that we have daily the converting grace of God in the heart, that all our words and deeds may give evidence that we are in submission to the mind and will of God. In doing with meekness and humility our appointed service, we are to reveal the converting power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Then we become the Lord’s agencies to do His work.

God’s Amazing Grace

We Must Follow On, October 19

AG 300.1

Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning. Hosea 6:3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 75, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 75, 1910, par. 2

What we want is to follow Jesus. And we have the Word of God, saying, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] If we will submit ourselves to Christ, to follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] We do not see the whole flood of light when the morning dawns. We see a little at a time, and should be thankful for that little. And if that little light comes from God, if He is the Source, we shall have a great deal more. What we want is the simplicity of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and if we will only <cultivate> this simplicity, we shall, just as surely as Christ is our Saviour, obtain the victory. As long as we cling to Christ, Christ clings to us, though we see so much that the enemy will introduce.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 22, 1913

25LtMs, Ms 22, 1913, par. 40

Sister White: Every soul is to seek the Lord while He may be found, and to call upon Him while He is near. We are to humble our own hearts before God, and not specify what such a brother must do, or what another brother must do; we are rather to inquire, What have I to do individually? and then take up the work given us, and do it in a humble way. If others do not at once understand all we do, let us not cast them off immediately. We cannot do this; for they are in need of more light from the Lord. They need more evidence of the things wherein they lack, and we are not to cast them off thoughtlessly; for we do not want them to be lost. We are rather to harmonize in simplicity. To follow such a course will be the light and the safety of our people. No one man is to be a ruler, but all are to come to an understanding as to what is the right way, and then to follow it. The pathway of those who follow on to know the Lord may not be illumined suddenly with a blaze of light; for “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] Light does not burst in upon any soul in a manner that will hedge up the way for another man. We need to seek God. He will bless us in using the light He has given us and will cause us to reflect this light under difficult circumstances. As we continue to advance in the light of His counsel, we shall not say, My way is right, but we will seek the Lord with all the heart, and humble ourselves, and He will fit us for bearing responsibility and will work through us to His glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 73, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 73, 1911, par. 4

Verses 11-16. Do not feel offended if the straight truth is brought home to your heart and you think they mean you. Perhaps they do if you think so. Then take heed. Let us remember something. What is it? There is a heaven to win, and a hell to shun. We have taken hold of the Bible truth, and we are to follow that truth circumspectly. We are to follow on to know the Lord, that we may know that “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.]

The Three Angels’ Messages

Historical setting

3AM 134.2

The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” Joel 2:23. “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17, 21.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Canvassing as an Education For the Ministry

GW 97.2

Follow on, young men, to know the Lord, and you will know that “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] Seek constantly to improve. Strive earnestly for close fellowship with the Redeemer. Live by faith in Christ. Do the work He did. Live for the saving of the souls for whom He laid down His life. Try in every way to help those with whom you come in contact Talk with your Elder Brother, who will complete your education line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. A close connection with Him who offered Himself as a sacrifice to save a perishing world, will make you acceptable workers.—Testimonies for the Church 6:416.

Last Day Events

Chapter 13—The Latter Rain

LDE 183.1

“He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” In the East the former rain falls at the sowing time. It is necessary in order that the seed may germinate. Under the influence of the fertilizing showers the tender shoot springs up. The latter rain, falling near the close of the season, ripens the grain and prepares it for the sickle. The Lord employs these operations of nature to represent the work of the Holy Spirit. [See Zechariah 10:1; Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23, 28.]

Lift Him Up

He Is the Sun of Righteousness, March 13

LHU 86.9

The Sun of Righteousness did not burst upon the world in splendor, to dazzle the senses with His glory. It is written of Christ, “His going forth is prepared as the morning” (Hosea 6:3). Quietly and gently the daylight breaks upon the earth, dispelling the darkness and waking the world to life. So did the Sun of Righteousness arise, “with healing in his wings” (Malachi 4:2) (The Ministry of Healing, 29-32).

Lift Him Up

Cling Closely to Jesus, November 15

LHU 333.1

If we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning. Hosea 6:3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 301, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 301, 1905, par. 14

I plead with you to turn to the Lord before it is too late. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord, that His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth. O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of My mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” “But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against Me.” [Hosea 6:3-7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 90, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 90, 1897, par. 6

God’s loyal and faithful children are found in a world where atheist and worldly religionists abound, a world that ever since the day when Cain lifted up his hand against Abel has rejected every provision that heaven has made to restore the moral image of God in man. “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.] But even this gift has been cast aside as worthless. “O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee?” God asks; “for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desired mercy and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. But they like men have transgressed the covenant: they have dealt treacherously against me.” [Hosea 6:4-7.]

The Review and Herald

January 29, 1914

RH January 29, 1914, par. 7

There were times when the judgments of heaven fell heavily on the rebellious people. “Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets,” God declared; “I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. But they like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me.” Hosea 6:5-7.

RH January 29, 1914, par. 16

The land was filled with violence. Gilead was “a city of them that work iniquity,” and was “polluted with blood.” Hosea 6:8. Through his messenger, the Lord testified against Israel: “They commit falsehood; and the thief cometh in, and the troop of robbers spoileth without. And they consider not in their hearts that I remember all their wickedness: now their own doings have beset them about; they are before my face. They make the king glad with their wickedness, and the princes with their lies. They are all adulterers.” Hosea 7:1-4.

Conflict and Courage

Publicans Not Excluded, October 5

CC 284.1

For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. Hosea 6:6.

With God at Dawn

We Must Desire to Know Him, January 15

WGD 17.1

For I desired mercy and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. Hosea 6:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 34, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 34, 1894, par. 28

“I desired mercy and not sacrifice,” saith the Lord. [Hosea 6:6.] The oppression of one widow, the neglect of one father who makes his plea for consideration, will be charged against any one who will do this. God’s cause can afford to be just. We need to have eyes anointed with the heavenly eyesalve, that we may see things on all sides. We have not a one-sided religion, but full, complete, in Jesus Christ in everything.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 122, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 122, 1895, par. 7

I have had the matter presented before me: If any one is moved by the Spirit of God to publish a book which is adapted to supply a need, to advance the truth, and the selfish spirits works to bring the book under their control, then the men who conduct these matters have much to learn on this point. God says, “I will have mercy, and not sacrifice.” Hosea 6:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 3, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 10

It is not possible to give to Christ more service than is His due. If you have, as had the Pharisees, a self-complacent spirit, if you wrap about you the garments of your self-righteousness, and leave sinners in darkness and transgression, you give evidence that you are not converted; and those whom you deem publicans and sinners will go into the kingdom of heaven before you. Those who would object to eating with publicans and sinners should closely criticize their own course of action. They have important lessons to learn. What saith the Scriptures?—“To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” [Proverbs 21:3.] “For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” [Hosea 6:6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 58, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 58, 1901, par. 21

Again I say, Become a Bible Christian. Instead of putting yokes on the necks of others, break every yoke. Humble yourself before God. He says, “For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” [Hosea 6:6.]

16LtMs, Lt 58, 1901, par. 22

The Lord declares, “But they like men have transgressed the covenant; there have they dealt treacherously against me.” [Verse 7.] By selfish dealing a work has been done that is entirely contrary to the character of God, entirely opposed to His law. Love to God and love to man are the two great principles of this law. But the law has been perverted by men professing to serve God, and treacherous dealing has come in.