EGW WritingsJames 4

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 78, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, par. 22

There must be no dissension among God’s commandment-keeping people. Heavenly angels are constantly working to keep us from falling. Christ has made every provision that we may be partakers of the divine nature, overcoming the corruption that is in the world through lust. “From whence come wars and fightings among you? Come they not hence of your own lusts?” [James 4:1.] Why are not professed believers sanctified through the truth? Why do they so often speak words which wound and bruise? Why do they cherish the spirit which acknowledges no law but the law of selfishness, which refuses to reveal the perfection of Christ’s character? Selfishness is the very essence of depravity. Selfishness has filled the world with strife, setting human beings at variance with one another. Selfishness has brought discord into the church, filling it with unholy ambition.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]

MR No. 81—God’s Rebuke to Laodicea

1MR 368.1

[James 4:1-10 and James 3:14-18 are quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 148, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 148, 1899, par. 23

“From whence comes wars and fightings among you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not; ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain; ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. ... Do ye think that the Scripture saith in vain, The Spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands ye sinners; and purify your hearts ye doubleminded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:1, 2, 5-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 7, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 7, 1891, par. 39

“From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not; ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain; ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:1-4.] “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of God, and he shall lift you up.” [Verses 7-10.]

7LtMs, Ms 7, 1891, par. 40

You are not to think that you can lift up and build up yourselves by tearing down your brethren, making them appear the worst you can, while you set forth your own virtues in contrast with him. You may think that your indignation against some supposed wrong in your brother will lead others to appreciate your virtues; but the Word of God declares, “Speak not evil one of another, brethren.” [Verse 11.] These words of inspiration have <had> too little weight with many whose names stand registered on the church books.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 97, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 97, 1896, par. 33

Read carefully the first chapter of James. Do not turn away, saying, This has no reference to me, for it has special reference to you. Read (verses 1-16) slowly and prayerfully. Then read verses 16-19. Then spend a few minutes in silent prayer, asking the Lord to search your hearts as with a lighted candle, and reveal to you yourselves, for your words and actions testify against you before the whole heavenly universe. Read the verses one by one to the close of the chapter, and then pray earnestly for the spiritual eye salve, that the heavenly anointing may cleanse you from the perverted ideas which are born of selfishness. Read the third chapter of James. This entire chapter should be read and studied. God help you to see. Let the words of chapter four be eaten. By practicing these words, create a different atmosphere about your souls. “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” [James 1:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 7, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 7, 1898, par. 20

Read the second chapter of James. Practice the truth in your daily life and you will know the work that the Lord has given you to do. Read also the fourth chapter, especially (verses 5-12); and chapter five, especially verses 13-20. These chapters are a dead letter to the larger number of those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists. I am directed to point you to these Scriptures, and to the seventh chapter of Matthew. You need to study every word as for your life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Ms 110, 1909

24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, par. 8

What is the work prescribed for us? “Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” Hebrews 12:12-15. Let not these words be lost out of your mind and heart. You who have erred will never improve your character by vindicating your hasty, harsh course of action. Confess. James chapters 3 and 4. Everlasting consequences depend upon the use of the tongue.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Lt 164, 1910

25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, par. 3

Take the first chapter of the First Epistle of Peter; read, and let every church member obey the Word in the letter and in the spirit, commencing this chapter with a full purpose to carry it out. If every man and woman seeking office would solemnly believe these words of Peter, would there not be a decided change in the words and in the spirit as you speak to others? Take the Word in your hand, every church member, read James and First Peter and Second Peter also, and bow your knees before our Lord Jesus Christ and intercede individually for the converting influence of the Holy Spirit to come to you. The first chapter of Second Peter, from the first verse of the chapter to the close, is especially for us as a people.

Our High Calling

Blessings for Those Who Ask, May 3

OHC 129.1

Ye have not, because ye ask not. James 4:2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 177, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 177, 1897, par. 41

Imperfections in education as to what constitutes true manliness and true womanliness in the Christian life is the cause of many failing and falling. When you leave the school you will need to place yourselves daily under the watchcare of God. Never suppose you are sufficient to be wise and good of yourself. God will take charge of you if you will commit your souls to His keeping. Do not ever undervalue the impressions you have received during this term of school, as the Scriptures have been opened to you and precious light has shone forth in distinct and clear lines. Be on guard, and read the text I have been seeking to impress upon your minds, in Ephesians 6:10-12. Read also James 4:2, 8.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 144, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 144, 1897, par. 18

In a church where there are consecrated sons and daughters of God, there is a web of mutual influences at work under the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This is too complicated to explain or unravel. It appears as a wheel within a wheel. But the infinite Hand sets all in motion according to His mind and His will. All is brought into harmonious working order. The members receive blessings from the Lord because they ask Him in faith, and express their grateful thanks to Him for answering their prayers. But Christ says of some, “Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss.” [James 4:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 76, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 76, 1898, par. 2

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy into heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:7-10.]

13LtMs, Ms 76, 1898, par. 3

The promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep, (because so easily overcome by the temptations of the devil).” [Verses 8, 9.] This is the work the Lord requires us to do. “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” [Verse 3.] We need so much the blessing of God, for God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. The work that we have to do daily is to deny self, and take up the cross, and follow our Leader, without one word of murmuring and complaint. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. In drawing nigh to God, and exercising faith, the human agent is doing the very work spoken of in the Scriptures. As we obey these directions as fully as is here given, the angels of God lift up for us a standard against the enemy. We are directed to have faith, submitting ourselves unto God and resisting the devil, who has laid his snare to tempt and lead out of the way. As we resist his temptations in faith, the sure result will follow. He will fell from us.

In Heavenly Places

No Partnership With the World, June 10

HP 168.1

Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 18—Hindrances to Reform

6T 143.1

Those who pursue such a course show that they cannot be trusted. After the evil has been done, they may confess their error; but can they undo the influence they have exerted? Will the “well done” be spoken to those who have been false to their trust? These unfaithful workmen have not built upon the eternal Rock, and their foundation will prove to be sliding sand. When the Lord requires us to be distinct and peculiar, how can we crave popularity or seek to imitate the customs and practices of the world? “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4.

That I May Know Him

Who Has Our Friendship? October 29

TMK 308.1

Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 15—The Second Angel’s Message

4SP 233.2

The close relation of the church to Christ is represented under the figure of marriage. The Lord had joined his people to himself by a solemn covenant, he promising to be their God, and they pledging themselves to be his, and his alone. Said Paul, addressing the church, “I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.” [2 Corinthians 11:2.] But when her confidence and affection were turned away from him, and she sought after vanity, and allowed the love of worldly things to separate her from God, she forfeited the privileges included in this peculiar and sacred relation. By the apostle James those who assimilate to the world are addressed as “adulterers and adulteresses.” [James 4:4.]

This Day With God

His Grace Is Sufficient, June 7

TDG 167.3

The effect of God’s claims is to cause His people to come out from the world and be separate, having no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. Without holiness “no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). “Whosoever ... will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4).

This Day With God

Danger of Doublemindedness, August 19

TDG 240.4

Double minded men and women are Satan’s best allies. Whatever favorable opinion they may have of themselves, they are dissemblers. All who are loyal to God and the truth must stand firmly for the right because it is right. To yoke up with those that are unconsecrated and yet be loyal to the truth, is simply an impossibility. We cannot unite with those who are serving themselves, who are working on worldly plans, and not lose our connection with the heavenly Counsellor. We may recover ourselves from the snare of the enemy, but we are bruised and wounded, and our experience is dwarfed. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4).

This Day With God

In the World, But Not of It, August 27

TDG 248.1

Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b

Power of Example

4bSG 75.4

James 4:4. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

The Review and Herald

June 25, 1861

RH June 25, 1861, par. 32

James 4:4: “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

The Review and Herald

November 26, 1861

RH November 26, 1861, par. 5

God will have a separate and peculiar people. Their faith is peculiar. Their prospects are peculiar and glorious, and if they do not consider the heavenly inducement offered them of sufficient value to lead them to renounce the fashions of the world, when God rises up to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity, they must perish with them. Please read Isaiah 26:21; James 4:4. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” 1 John 2:15: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” We are called upon in these perilous times to elevate the standard. It has been left to trail in the dust. The fashions of the world hold God’s people in bondage.

The Review and Herald

July 1, 1875

RH July 5, 1875, par. 6

James 4:4: “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

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

MR No. 1391—A Call to Commitment in Youth

19MR 190.3

Your mother, my son Edson, dedicated you to God as soon as you were born. You are the subject of many prayers, and your precious Emma we have fully taken into our heart as our daughter. We love you both and we want you day by day to form characters of moral worth that God will accept. We are not anxious you should bear the worldly stamp or that you should have that cheap praise and uncertain honor that the world bestows. I do not wish you to imitate the example of worldlings, but to copy the character of Christ, to be a partaker of the Divine nature, having escaped the corruption which is in the world through lust. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” [James 4:4].

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Popularity Through Lowered Standards

2TT 421.1

Those who pursue such a course show that they cannot be trusted. After the evil has been done, they may confess their error; but can they undo the influence they have exerted? Will the “well done” be spoken to those who have been false to their trust? These unfaithful workmen have not built upon the eternal Rock, and their foundation will prove to be sliding sand. When the Lord requires us to be distinct and peculiar, how can we crave popularity or seek to imitate the customs and practices of the world? “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4.

From Here to Forever

Spiritual Adultery

HF 237.2

Says the apostle James: “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4.

Testimony for the Church — No. 7

Power of Example

T07 42.4

James 4:4. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 27, 1871

2LtMs, Lt 27, 1871, par. 5

Your mother, my son Edson, dedicated you to God as soon as you were born. You are the subjects of many prayers, and your precious Emma we have fully taken into our heart as our daughter. We love you both and we want you day by day to form characters of moral worth that God will accept. We are not anxious you should bear the worldly stamp or that you should have that cheap praise and uncertain honor that the world bestows. I do not wish you to imitate the example of worldlings, but to copy the character of Christ, to be a partaker of the Divine nature, having escaped the corruption which is in the world through lust. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.] Your religious life must rise above the standard of public opinion if it abides the searching investigation of the Judge of all the earth. Should the shadow of death gather about you, you will never regret that you were a lover of God more than a lover of pleasure. You will never regret that you did not participate in worldly dissipation. Your only regret will be that you did not love Jesus more fervently, that you did not devote more time to helping others to see their danger and turn their feet in paths of holiness and heaven.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 35a, 1877

3LtMs, Lt 35a, 1877, par. 7

Because the world does this is no evidence. We are exhorted to come out from the world and be separate, and touch not the unclean; “and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore shall be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. Christ declares Himself to be the light of the world. “All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehendeth it not. ... He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not.” John 1:3-5, 10, 11. As the world knew not Christ, neither will they know His followers. It is in no way safe to make the world’s faith our faith, the world’s practice our example. “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not.” 1 John 3:1.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 4a, 1881

3LtMs, Ms 4a, 1881, par. 5

The great anxiety in the sanitarium has been to cater to the taste of the wealthy. The lovers of pleasure more than the lovers of God have received honor. The poor have been set down in the lowest place, while those who have had money have received attention and favor. God despises your policy, and I rebuke it in the name of the Lord. Your continual and persistent effort to meet the world’s standard, notwithstanding the Word of God condemns it (the testimonies He has given you have condemned it), makes you sinners against God and places you at cross-purposes with your Redeemer. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 3, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 3, 1882, par. 11

I was shown that you had done this again and again. Your standard is low. You can see where others err and will be sharp and denunciatory upon them, but [you are] deceived in regard to your own heart. You will surely lose eternal life, notwithstanding your profession of faith, unless you are converted and become meek and lowly, pure and undefiled. You are in constant danger from making friendship with the world. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 8, 1880

3LtMs, Ms 8, 1880, par. 2

There is something to come out from. You cannot mix or mingle with the world and at the some time be united with Jesus Christ. “Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord.” John 15:18-20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 70, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 70, 1886, par. 21

We have solemn work to do, which must bear the test of the judgment. We are called to greater faith than God’s ancient people because of increased light. “Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world, is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.] The times in which we are living call for you who believe the truth to arouse and put on the armor. The more we do, the more knowledge of truth and the more experience in heavenly things we shall have. The more firmly we walk in the path of faith, the greater will be our separation from the world and from darkness, and the closer will we come to the great Light of the world. Will you consecrate yourselves, soul, body, and spirit to God? Will you lay upon His altar that which belongs to Him? Will you cut loose from the world and give evidence that you believe the truth?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 37, 1887

5LtMs, Ms 37, 1887, par. 2

The effect of God’s claims is to cause His people to come out from the world and be separate, having no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. Without holiness “no man shall see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14. “Whosoever ... will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]

MR No. 829—The Third Angel’s Message

10MR 317.4

In every action God looks at the heart. No external arrangements in conformity with the world to secure its friendship can be made without positive danger of transgressing God’s holy precepts. Pride and love of worldly praise lie at the foundation of all this self-exaltation and desire for recognition. These prompt a desire for outward show and an appearance of being linked with the friendship of the world. Self-righteousness, which is so deceptive, is bound up with the unsanctified heart. The warning is given us, “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4). Oh, that our physicians and ministers and church members may see this matter in its true bearing. Oh, that they may exalt the Lord God and let Him be their fear and their dread.—Letter 121, 1900, pp. 3-8. (To S. N. Haskell and wife, August 13, 1900.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 28, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 28, 1888, par. 8

Now, my brother, because the world is taking you in its arms with flattery and applause, it is no evidence that you are right, but rather a matter of alarm that you should have such an experience. The enemy of God and of man is ever on the lookout, and if he can ensnare a soul by any device, even by the means of praise and sympathy and by flattering inducements, he will do it. He will appear to be the best and strongest friend a man could have; but the apostle says, “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be the friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.] It is no evidence that a man is right because the world places its confidence in him. The work of Christ in our world was not recognized. He was misjudged and maligned, and His words were misinterpreted and His lessons perverted.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 53, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 20

Between the worldly man and the one who is faithfully serving God, there is a great gulf fixed. Upon the most momentous subjects—God and truth and eternity—their thoughts and sympathies and feelings are not in harmony. One class are ripening as wheat for the garner of God, the other as tares for the fires of destruction. How can there be unity of purpose or action between them? “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be the friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.] “No man can serve two masters.” “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 62, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 62, 1894, par. 39

“Whosoever will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.] Let this be your theme for both precept and example, for conformity to the world and harmony with Christ cannot be maintained. Worldly maxims and worldly practices sap spirituality from heart and life. Conformity to the world means resemblance to the world in meeting the world’s standard. But how dwelleth the love of God in the soul of him who assimilates to the world? No man can serve the world and Jesus Christ at the same time. There is an irreconcilable antagonism between Christ and the world. Every one who loves Jesus has a solemn work to do for the world, for “ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 19, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 19, 1894, par. 16

“Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness.” [2 Peter 3:17.] “Love not the world neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” [1 John 2:15.] “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 104, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 104, 1894, par. 4

“Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be the friend of the world is the enemy of God.” “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this: To visit the fatherless and the widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” [James 4:4; 1:27.] “I have given them thy word, and the world hath hated them because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from evil.” [John 17:14, 15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 24a, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 24a, 1896, par. 8

We are to show our loyalty to our King, the Lord Jesus Christ. The apostle James declares, “Whosoever will be a friend of the world is an enemy of God.” [James 4:4.] And the beloved John, the disciple most like Jesus, has given the warning, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” [1 John 2:15.] No man will find happiness in following the example of Adam, and wandering from his Maker.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 87, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 87, 1897, par. 8

To yoke up with those that are unconsecrated and yet be loyal to the truth, is simply an impossibility. We cannot unite with those who are serving themselves, who are working on worldly plans, and not lose our connection with the heavenly Counsellor. We may recover ourselves from the snare of the enemy, but we are bruised and wounded, and our experience is dwarfed. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 124, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 124, 1900, par. 7

“Therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:20.] If you consult your own inclination you will succeed in making yourself more and more inefficient as long as life shall last. The Lord has made an infinite sacrifice for you, giving Jesus Christ up to a shameful death that you might be saved, eternally saved in His kingdom. Then how does the heavenly universe regard your present position toward Christ and the truth of heavenly origin? “Know ye not that friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 121, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 121, 1900, par. 25

Pride and love of worldly praise lie at the foundation of all this self-exaltation and desire for recognition. These prompt a desire for outward show and an appearance of being linked with the friendship of the world. Self-righteousness, which is so deceptive, is bound up with the unsanctified heart. The warning is given us, “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.] O, that our physicians and ministers and church members may see this matter in its true bearing. O, that they may exalt the Lord God, and let Him be their fear and their dread.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]

MR No. 951—Testimony to Battle Creek Sanitarium

12MR 130.2

The great anxiety in the sanitarium has been to cater to the taste of the wealthy. The lovers of pleasure more than the lovers of God have received honor. The poor have been set down in the lowest place, while those who have had money have received attention and favor. God despises your policy, and I rebuke it in the name of the Lord. Your continual and persistent effort to meet the world’s standard, notwithstanding the Word of God condemns it (the testimonies He has given you have condemned it), makes you sinners against God and places you at cross-purposes with your Redeemer. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” [James 4:4].

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1546—How Shall We Celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas?

21MR 222.2

There is something to come out from. You cannot mix or mingle with the world and at the same time be united with Jesus Christ. “Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord.” John 15:18-20.

Our Father Cares

In the World, But Not of It, September 21

OFC 276.1

Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:4.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 41—Apostasy at the Jordan

PP 458.2

It was by associating with idolaters and joining in their festivities that the Hebrews were led to transgress God’s law and bring His judgments upon the nation. So now it is by leading the followers of Christ to associate with the ungodly and unite in their amusements that Satan is most successful in alluring them into sin. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean.” 2 Corinthians 6:17. God requires of His people now as great a distinction from the world, in customs, habits, and principles, as He required of Israel anciently. If they faithfully follow the teachings of His word, this distinction will exist; it cannot be otherwise. The warnings given to the Hebrews against assimilating with the heathen were not more direct or explicit than are those forbidding Christians to conform to the spirit and customs of the ungodly. Christ speaks to us, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” 1 John 2:15. “The friendship of the world is enmity with God; whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. The followers of Christ are to separate themselves from sinners, choosing their society only when there is opportunity to do them good. We cannot be too decided in shunning the company of those who exert an influence to draw us away from God. While we pray, “Lead us not into temptation,” we are to shun temptation, so far as possible.

Selected Messages Book 2

Chapter 13—Should Christians Be Members of Secret Societies?

2SM 127.4

“Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God” (James 4:4).

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1

Chapter 59—Power of Example

1T 285.1

James 4:4: “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 35, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 35, 1891, par. 3

Satan is sharp, critical, wide awake, and while men are asleep he sows his seed to raise a crop of tares which himself and helpers must harvest. I am anxious that you should be saved. I desire you to have eternal life. In completing the work of rebellion, Satan is represented as walking about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Those who are self-sufficient, who are in friendship with the world, will be an easy prey, for they are [at] enmity with God. The apostle says, “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” [James 4:4.]

7LtMs, Lt 35, 1891, par. 52

Concerning the people of God in these last days, the prophet has written, “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” [Revelation 12:17.] Darkness has covered the earth, and gross darkness the people. Will you choose to have the spirit of those who are in darkness? God forbid. I have hope that you will yet see the manner of spirit you are of and humble your heart before God. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 87, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 87, 1901, par. 18

“Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:5-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 156, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 156, 1901, par. 28

“Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:5-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 146, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 146, 1901, par. 4

The chief and highest happiness you can possibly find will come in humbling yourself under the mighty hand of God. “Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” [James 4:5, 6.] Will you take heed to these words, written for your instruction and edification? The human spirit born of selfishness, belonging to the unregenerate heart, which dwells in us, lusteth to envy desiring the satisfaction of supremacy. This brings jealousy and envy and has produced in you that warped condition that would not have existed had you been willing to be second until you have decided evidence of God’s appointment to be first.

16LtMs, Lt 146, 1901, par. 5

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil.” [Verse 7.] Cast out that spirit which one who was jealous of Christ introduced into the heavenly courts. The trouble in heaven came because Lucifer, the angel of brightness, was not given the supremacy over Christ. I have seen this spirit working in several of the physicians who have come to the Sanitarium, and I have set before them each what the outcome would surely be. These warnings have proven true, and if you had studied as a diligent student should, from cause to effect, you would have been much wiser in your estimate of yourself and your unchristian ambition. Seeing its sure result, you would have striven against it with all your power.

16LtMs, Lt 146, 1901, par. 6

The Holy Spirit, which God has given to dwell in our hearts, never leads to envy. Working by this Spirit, God gives more grace to all who humbly seek Him for strength and power to overcome their evil propensities. “Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” [Verse 6.] He does not hear the prayers of the proud, the self-sufficient, who trust in themselves as capable of standing first. But He gives grace to the humble. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.” [Verses 7-9.] Instead of afflicting your souls because you cannot have the supremacy, humble yourselves before God. Cherish the spirit that dwelt in Christ. “Learn of me,” says the great Teacher; “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 70, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 70, 1895, par. 13

“The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” [James 3:17, 18.] “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” “Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [James 4:10, 5-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 40, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 40, 1901, par. 10

“Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God.” What is the result of this? We cannot draw nigh to God and behold His loveliness and compassion without realizing our defects and being filled with a desire to rise higher. “And he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:5-8.] The Lord will draw nigh to him who confesses to his brethren the wrongs he has done them, and then comes to God in humility and contrition.

16LtMs, Lt 40, 1901, par. 11

He who feels his own danger is on the watch lest he shall grieve the Holy Spirit and then draw away from God because he knows that He is not pleased with his course of action. How much better and safer it is to draw nigh to God, that the pure light shining from His Word may heal the wounds that sin has made in the soul. The closer we are to God, the safer we are, for Satan hates and fears the presence of God. “Submit yourselves therefore to God; resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” [Verse 7.]

16LtMs, Lt 40, 1901, par. 12

“Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [Verses 8-10.] Precious promise! How good and acceptable it will be to the Lord when His people draw nigh to Him and humble themselves before Him.

16LtMs, Lt 40, 1901, par. 13

“Speak not evil one of another, brethren.” [Verse 11.] How much merchandise has been made of a brother’s mistakes and a brother’s sins by those who are far more guilty in the sight of the heavenly Father than the one they condemn. “Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?” There is but one answer to this question. No, it is impossible. “Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.” [James 3:11, 12.] The sin is proved by One who never makes a mistake. The contradiction between the life and the profession is self-evident.

Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers

Christ the Revelation of God

TM 125.3

Read the second chapter of James. Practice the truth in your daily life and you will know the work that the Lord has given you to do. Read also the fourth chapter, especially verses 5-12; and chapter 5, especially verses 13-20. These chapters are a dead letter to the larger number of those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists. I am directed to point you to these scriptures, and to the seventh chapter of Matthew. You need to study every word as for your life.

Special Testimony to Battle Creek Church

True Education in Our Churches

PH086 19.1

Read the second chapter of James. Practise the truth in your daily life, and you will know the work that the Lord has given you to do. Read also the fourth chapter, especially verses 5-12; and chapter five, especially verses 13-20. These chapters are a dead letter to the larger number of those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists. I am directed to point you to these scriptures, and to the seventh chapter of Matthew. You need to study every word as for your life.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 98, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 98, 1896, par. 2

“Do you think that the Scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up. Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgeth another?” [James 4:5-12.]

God’s Amazing Grace

To Lift the Most Sinful, April 20

AG 118.1

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. James 4:6.

Sons and Daughters of God

Humility, March 15

SD 81.1

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. James 4:6.

Homeward Bound

God’s Grace Is Sufficient, December 6

HB 371.1

God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.—James 4:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 147, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 147, 1899, par. 10

“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to be humble.” [James 4:6.] The apostle Paul exhorts us, “Be kindly affectioned one toward another, with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another;” “submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” [Romans 12:10; Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3.] Let the church heed these words, for they are for their present and eternal good. The church must maintain her sacred, holy calling, keeping separate from the world; for unless the church itself is respected, it is powerless to influence. God has placed His message in the church, and His voice must control the members.

This Day With God

What God Expects, February 1

TDG 40.1

God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. James 4:6-10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 27, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 27, 1895, par. 7

“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye doubleminded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:6-10.] This was the work we needed to have done. I felt that this was a precious opportunity to invite souls to seek the Lord with us. All who were afflicted and troubled in mind, all who were in sorrow and despondency, all who had lost their first love, were invited to come forward, that we might unite with them in sending up the prayer of faith for the manifestation of the Holy Spirit.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 61b, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 61b, 1895, par. 12

“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:6-10.] This is the very work we needed to have done in the first part of the meeting.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 64, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 64, 1888, par. 22

Will you carefully review your life, your practice, and see wherein you have failed to be Bible Christians? Will you seek diligently for the grace of God that you may overcome the satanic traits in your characters? You are filled with pride, self-esteem, self-importance. “God resisteth the proud and giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your minds, ye double minded.” James 4:6-8.

5LtMs, Lt 64, 1888, par. 23

This means just what it says. You are not to say words that you do not mean. That false tongue needs to be treated with the hot coals of juniper. “Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy into heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. Speak not evil one of another, brethren.” James 4:9-11. God’s Word is speaking to you, and will you hear it? I want you to be saved, but I know you cannot be saved unless you are thoroughly transformed in character.

In Heavenly Places

Victory in the Mighty Name of Jesus, September 6

HP 256.4

Jesus gained the victory through submission and faith in God, and by the apostle He says to us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). We cannot save ourselves from the tempter’s power; he has conquered humanity, and when we try to stand in our own strength, we shall become a prey to his devices; but “the name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Satan trembles and flees before the weakest soul who finds refuge in that mighty name.9Manuscript 15, 1908.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 16c, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 16c, 1892, par. 13

Now, in the name of the Lord Jesus, put these things from you. Act trustful, act confidingly, and your brethren will see you are not changed. You will never be happy if you feel these suspicions. “Rebuke the devil, and he will flee from you.” [James 4:7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 122, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 122, 1896, par. 14

In God’s precious Word we shall find a standard lifted up for us against the enemy. “Whatsoever things were written aforetime, were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scripture might have hope.” [Romans 15:4.] When the enemy allures souls by some glowing prospect or bright expectation, then there is danger. He throws out an alluring bait, and many souls are spiritually weak because they yield to his temptations. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” [James 4:7.] Unseen agencies draw near to help every one who feels his need of help; but many are overcome because they do not soon enough draw the sword of the Spirit—“It is written.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 327, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 327, 1905, par. 14

The Christian life is a warfare, not against believing brethren, but against the seducing spirit of the enemy, against the subtle, deceiving influence of the serpent, which creeps into our thoughts and minds. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” [James 4:7.] Make no provision for the flesh, to deceive, to falsify, to work just as Satan worked in Eden. He is watching his chance to develop if he can only have an opportunity. Give him no foothold. There is something we are charged to do: “Resist the devil,” and the promise is, “he will flee from you.” Why? Because the angel of God lifts up for you a standard against the enemy, and he flees.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 15, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 15, 1908, par. 13

So we may resist temptation and force Satan to depart from us. Jesus gained the victory through submission and faith in God, and by the apostle He says to us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” [James 4:7.] We cannot save ourselves from the tempter’s power; he has conquered humanity, and when we try to stand in our own strength, we shall become a prey to his devices; but “the name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runneth into it, and are safe.” [Proverbs 18:10.] Satan trembles and flees before the weakest soul who finds refuge in that mighty name.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 920—The Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, and Lost Son

11MR 371.2

Men often commit wrong through ignorance or want of judgment. In many instances there is no premeditated wrong; it is caused through a lack of thoughtfulness. The one who treats this as sin is himself a sinner. There is with many a keen imagination that makes them offender for a word or action. But often the one judged is innocent in the sight of God. The accuser, who has permitted the tempter to ruffle his feelings, needs to humble his soul before God, to be purified and refined by the Holy Spirit, to love as brethren, be kind, be courteous. The promise to all is, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you: (James 4:7). If one errs, remember that this is no more than you yourself have done. Put away evil surmisings. Christ says, “All ye are brethren” (Matthew 23:8).

Our High Calling

Success in Resistance, March 30

OHC 95.1

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7.

Sons and Daughters of God

To Resist Temptation, March 13

SD 79.1

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7.

That I May Know Him

How to Resist Satan, August 27

TMK 245.1

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7.

The Upward Look

Resist the Devil, January 18

UL 32.1

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7.

Living by Principle

Living by Principle

PH048 5.6

James 4:7: Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Presumption

1TT 410.3

Our only safety is in giving no place to the devil, for his suggestions and purposes are ever to injure us and hinder us from relying upon God. He transforms himself into an angel of purity that he may, through his specious temptations, introduce his devices in such a manner that we may not discern his wiles. The more we yield, the more powerful will be his deceptions over us. It is unsafe to enter into controversy or to parley with him. For every advantage that we give the enemy, he will claim more. Our only safety is in rejecting firmly the first approach to presumption. God has, through the merits of Christ, given us sufficient grace to withstand Satan and be more than conquerors. Resistance is success. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7. Resistance must be firm and steadfast. We lose all we gain if we resist today only to yield tomorrow.

Homeward Bound

Implanted Grace, November 5

HB 338.1

Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.—James 4:7.

God’s Amazing Grace

The Rulership Forfeited, February 2

AG 41.6

Jesus gained the victory through submission and faith in God, and by the apostle He says to us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” ... (James 4:7, 8). We cannot save ourselves from the tempter’s power; he has conquered humanity ...; but “the name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe” (Proverbs 18:10).6The Desire of Ages, 129-131.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 1b, 1873

2LtMs, Lt 1b, 1873, par. 6

I implore you, my children, to trust wholly in God. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” James 4:7, 8. The Christian life is a life of conflict, of self-denial and conquest. It is a continual battle and a march. Every act of obedience to Christ, every victory obtained over self, is a step in the march to glory and final victory. Take Christ for your Guide and He will lead you safely along. The pathway may be rough and thorny and the ascents steep, requiring toil. You may have to press on when weary, when you long for rest. You may have to fight on when faint, and hope on when discouraged, but, with Christ as your Guide, you cannot lose the path of immortal life. You cannot fail to reach the exalted seat by the side of your Guide, whose own feet trod the rough path before you, evening the way for your feet. If you follow pride and selfish ambition you will find it pleasant at first, but the end is pain and sorrow. You may follow selfishness, which will promise you much but will poison and embitter your life. To follow Christ is safe. He will not suffer the powers of darkness to hurt one hair of your head. Trust in your Redeemer and you are safe.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 36, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 36, 1892, par. 7

I have felt a very strong desire to see you both; it has seemed to me that I must see you, and must talk to you, especially to Edson. I hope and pray that you will not enter into the enterprise which you mentioned in W. C. White’s letter. For I know that there is danger for your soul. We have hoped and longed and prayed that you would respond to the light the Lord has given you in regard to your duty and the work He has given you to do. He has given you ability, made you apt to teach. Satan has come in to separate you from God, and to tempt you with fascinating prospects, and you have been allured from your diligence to God. “Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? And your labor for that which satisfieth not?” [Isaiah 55:2.] Satan has devices prepared one after another to catch your soul. “Resist the devil and he will flee from you; draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] The crown of life is for those who run the Christian race with patience. When you surrender yourself without any reservation, your Redeemer will accept the offering.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 43, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 43, 1892, par. 6

“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] How precious to the tempted soul is this positive promise. Now if the one in trouble and temptation keeps his eye fixed on Jesus and draws nigh to God, talking of His goodness and mercy, Jesus draws nigh to him, and his annoyances that he thought almost unbearable vanish. For through Him we both have access by one spirit unto the Father. “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone. In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” [Ephesians 2:19-22.] This is vital energy for the church. This love for Christ must be revived; it has grown cold. Believers may not only pray for union with Christ and with one another, but have it. Troublous times are before us; but this is not to worry us. To be worried is to be unbelieving, but Christ invites you saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 105, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 105, 1893, par. 7

In the daily life you will meet with sudden surprises, disappointments, and temptations. What saith the Word? “Resist the devil (by firm reliance upon God), and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] “Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] Look unto Jesus at all times and in all places, offering a silent prayer from a sincere heart, that you may know how to do His will. Then when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard for you against the enemy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 51, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 51, 1893, par. 22

Of Daniel and his fellows the Scripture states: “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Daniel 1:17.] In what manner are you fitting yourselves to co-operate with God? “Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you.” “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” [James 4:8, 7.] Let the diet be carefully studied; it is not healthful. The various little dishes concocted for desserts are injurious instead of helpful and healthful and from the light given me, there should be a decided change in the preparation of food. There should be a skillful, thorough cook, that will give ample supplies of substantial dishes to the hungry students.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 33, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 33, 1898, par. 19

We may ask Christ to undertake our case, for when He gave His life as the propitiation for the sins of the world, He undertook the case of every soul. “Submit yourselves therefore unto God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, (not only in prayer, but in all your works,) and He will draw nigh unto you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double-minded.” [James 4:7, 8.] “Who is a wise man, and endued with knowledge among you? let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” [James 3:13-17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 80, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 80, 1898, par. 12

Men often commit wrong through ignorance or want of judgment. In many instances there is no premeditated wrong; it is caused through a lack of thoughtfulness. The one who treats this as sin is himself a sinner. There is with many a keen imagination that makes them offender for a word or action. But often the one judged is innocent in the sight of God. The accuser, who has permitted the tempter to ruffle his feelings, needs to humble his soul before God, to be purified and refined by the Holy Spirit, to love as brethren, be kind, be courteous. The promise to all is, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] If one errs, remember that this is no more than you yourself have done. Put away evil surmisings. Christ says, “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 41, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 41, 1899, par. 9

Overcoming means much more than we apprehend. It means fighting the enemy in the shape of the suggestions he sends direct to the human soul or through those with whom we associate. The branch grafted into the parent stock will bear the same fruit as the stock. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you,” means more than we realize. “Resist the devil.” This is the human agent’s part. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] If we do this, we shall become rooted and grounded in the truth.

Our High Calling

Our Only Safety, January 19

OHC 25.3

I implore you to trust wholly in God. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” James 4:7, 8. The Christian life is a life of conflict, or self-denial and conquest. It is a continual battle and a march. Every act of obedience to Christ, every victory obtained over self, is a step in the march to glory and final victory. Take Christ for your Guide and He will lead you safely along. The pathway may be rough and thorny and the ascents steep, requiring toil. You may have to press on when weary, when you long for rest. You may have to fight on when faint and hope on when discouraged, but, with Christ as your Guide, you cannot lose the path of immortal life. You cannot fail to reach the exalted seat by the side of your Guide, whose own feet trod the rough path before you, evening the way for your feet. If you follow pride and selfish ambition you will find it pleasant at first, but the end is pain and sorrow. You may follow selfishness, which will promise you much but will poison and embitter your life. To follow Christ is safe. He will not suffer the powers of darkness to hurt one hair of your head. Trust in your Redeemer and you are safe.37Letter 1b, 1873.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 153, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 153, 1903, par. 7

“Let the purity and love of Christ shine forth in your spirit and your words. Your mind may reflect the mind of Christ. Remember that you will meet opposition. Satan knows that his time is short, and he is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness to captivate souls and bring them under his control. ‘Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.’ [James 4:7, 8.] Look constantly to Christ. He will be to you a present help in every time of need. For every struggling soul, He will lift up a standard against the enemy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 26, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, par. 10

Satan will seek for the mastery of your heart and mind, that he may mold them to do his will. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] Believe that you receive the things you ask for, “and ye shall have them.” [Mark 11:24.] Look hourly to Jesus. Lift up your heart in prayer to Him. Bring yourself into conformity to His will; be diligent, watchful, constant in prayer, and Satan will not choose your society.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 13—The Victory

DA 130.4

So we may resist temptation, and force Satan to depart from us. Jesus gained the victory through submission and faith in God, and by the apostle He says to us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:7, 8. We cannot save ourselves from the tempter’s power; he has conquered humanity, and when we try to stand in our own strength, we shall become a prey to his devices; but “the name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10. Satan trembles and flees before the weakest soul who finds refuge in that mighty name.

The Faith I Live By

Cruel Power of the Enemy, November 2

FLB 312.1

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:7, 8.

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 8—The Temptation

SJ 48.5

So we may resist temptation, and overcome Satan. The Lord says to us, “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:7, 8.

To Be Like Jesus

Prayer an Effective Weapon Against Satan, January 27

BLJ 34.1

Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:7, 8, NKJV.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Closer to Jesus, December 13

YRP 356.1

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:7, 8.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 13—The Victory

HLv 79.3

So we may resist temptation and force Satan to depart from us. Jesus gained the victory through submission and faith in God, and by the apostle He says to us, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:7, 8. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10. Satan trembles before the weakest soul who finds refuge in that mighty name.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 39, 1875

2LtMs, Lt 39, 1875, par. 18

Come right up, Abbey. God loves you. All heaven is interested in your salvation, but you need to die to self and let Jesus reign in your mortal body and give no place to sin. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:7, 8.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 53, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 53, 1902, par. 8

“Resist the devil.” [James 4:7.] Be not seduced by his flattering presentations. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. All the good resolutions we make in our own strength are as ropes of sand. But when we come to God in sincerity, and give ourselves to Him, He will strengthen us to stand against the wiles of the enemy. In the power of Jesus Christ, resist the enemy, and he will flee from you.

17LtMs, Ms 53, 1902, par. 12

“Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning, and your joy into heaviness.” [James 4:9.] It is right to be cheerful and joyful. But words of jesting and joking, of lightness and trifling, show that the profession of Christianity is not genuine. The hearts of those who speak such words need to be purified. They need to show genuine sorrow for sin. What virtue is there in the religion that leads to the words, “Christ has pardoned my sins, and there is no need for me to resist temptation”? John declares, “He that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1

Chapter 32—The Shaking

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:7-10.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Shaking

1TT 59.1

November 20, 1857, I was shown the people of God, and saw them mightily shaken. Some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, were pleading with God. Their countenances were pale, and marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle. Firmness and great earnestness were expressed in their countenances, while large drops of perspiration fell from their foreheads. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look would settle upon them.*“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders. ... Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” Joel 2:15-17.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” James 4:7-10.
“Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired; before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord’s anger come upon you. Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought His judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Zephaniah 2:1-3.

Testimony for the Church — No. 4

Vision of the Future

T04 33.1

Nov. 20th, I was shown the people of God, and saw them mightily shaken. I saw some with strong faith and agonizing cries, pleading with God. Their countenances were pale, and marked with deep anxiety which expressed their internal struggle. There was firmness and great earnestness expressed in their countenances, while large drops of perspiration rose upon their foreheads, and fell. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look settled upon them. *“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders. . . . Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” Joel 2:15-17.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:7-10.
“Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired. Before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord’s anger come upon you. Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Zephaniah 2:1-3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 76, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 76, 1898, par. 23

My brother, I speak to you these words, because by your unsanctified temperament you have lost your hold of God. Your own passions rule you. The Lord knows all about this. The tempter has rejoiced in your downfall, and with his evil angels he is singing in triumph. But the Lord is looking with pitying tenderness upon you, Philip Wessels. He calls you, Philip, “Turn ye, turn ye, ... for why will ye die?” [Ezekiel 33:11.] “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” The angels of God are awaiting your co-operation. What is it? “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. ... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he will lift you up.” [James 4:7, 8, 10.] “So shall they fear the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.” [Isaiah 59:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 13, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 36

The work of every soul is to resist the enemy in the power and might of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the promise is that he shall flee from us. But let all realize that they are in peril, and there is no assurance of safety except as they comply with the conditions of the text. The Lord says, “Draw nigh to God.” [James 4:7, 8.] How? By secret, earnest examination of your own heart, by childlike, heartfelt, humble dependence upon God, making known all your weakness to Jesus, and by confessing your sins. Thus you may draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.

8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 37

But let us read the remainder of the lesson given for our instruction, that we may more fully comprehend what it means to draw nigh to God “Cleanse your hands ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [Verse 8.] The work that is essential to be done by the sinner is here clearly defined. It is a work not agreeable to the inclination of the human heart; but unless it is done the soul is not in a condition to appreciate the purity and perfection of the character of Christ, and in no condition either to understand the offensiveness of sin. The exhortation is given, “Purify your hearts, ye double minded.”

8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 40

There must be a cleansing of the hands, and a purifying of the double mind. “Be afflicted, and weep, and mourn: let your laughter be turned into mourning, and your joy into heaviness.” [James 4:9.] It is right to be cheerful, and even joyful. It is right to cultivate cheerfulness of spirit through sanctification of the truth; but it is not right to indulge in foolish jesting and joking, in lightness and trifling, in words of criticism and condemnation of others. Those who observe such persons who make a profession of religion know that they are deceived. They know that the hands of such professors need to be cleansed, their hearts need to be purified. They need to experience genuine repentance for sin. What have they to mourn over? They should mourn over their inclination to sin, over the danger they are in from inward corruption and from outward temptation. They should be afraid because they have so feeble a sense of the sinfulness of sin, and so little idea of what constitutes sin.

8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 41

When you truly repent of sin, you will not be satisfied to acknowledge simply that you are sinful and let the matter rest there. Do you intend to remain sinful while life shall last? Do you mean to violate your conscience? Do you mean to do evil always? What does the Lord say to those who have had light, and yet have failed to live in accordance with it? “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [Verses 17, 10.] There is a repentance of sin that needeth not to be repented of. “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]

Counsels for the Church

Counsel to Those Who Seek Assurance of God’s Acceptance

CCh 55.5

Do you feel your insufficiency for the position of trust that you occupy? Thank God for this. The more you feel your weakness, the more you will be inclined to seek for a helper. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:8. Jesus wants you to be happy, to be cheerful. He wants you to do your best with the ability that God has given you and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those who will be your helpers in carrying burdens.

The Retirement Years

Lessons From The Months Of Suffering

RY 143.1

Many nights during the past nine months I was enabled to sleep but two hours a night, and then at times darkness would gather about me; but I prayed, and realized much sweet comfort in drawing nigh to God. The promises, “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8), “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him” (Isaiah 59:19), were fulfilled to me. I was all light in the Lord. Jesus was sacredly near, and I found the grace given sufficient, for my soul was stayed upon God, and I was full of grateful praise to Him who loved me and gave Himself for me. I could say from a full heart, “I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12). “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Through Jesus Christ I have come off more than conqueror, and held the vantage ground.

This Day With God

Christian Humility, January 8

TDG 16.1

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:8.

This Day With God

Take Hold of Divine Strength, August 24

TDG 245.2

The Lord loves you. The Lord is of tender compassion. His promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8). When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up for you a standard against him. Bear in mind that Jesus Christ is your hope. In the sad, discouraging things that shall come to you at any time, Christ says to you, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me” (Isaiah 27:5).

Ellen G. White: The Australian Years: 1891-1900 (vol. 4)

Another Sunday-Work Arrest

4BIO 167.2

A. G. Daniells spoke Sabbath morning, reading as his text, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8). In the afternoon Ellen White spoke. Far from boasting or calling attention to herself, but ever eager to know whether her ministry was effective, she wrote of her observation to O. A. Olsen concerning this Sabbath-afternoon meeting:

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Our Burden Bearer

3TT 234.1

Do you feel your insufficiency for the position of trust that you occupy? Thank God for this. The more you feel your weakness, the more you will be inclined to seek for a helper. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:8. Jesus wants you to be happy, to be cheerful. He wants you to do your best with the ability that God has given you, and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those who will be your helpers in carrying burdens.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 12, 1872

2LtMs, Lt 12, 1872, par. 8

We are highly gratified to hear that you are prosperous in the Lord, Edson and Emma. We hope you will ever make the kingdom of God and His righteousness your first consideration. Then God will be to you a present help in every time of need. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] I hope the backslidings of others will not discourage either of you, but that you will both live up to the light and walk in the light as Christ is in the light, lest darkness come upon you.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 69, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 69, 1886, par. 7

We had early morning meeting. I gave a short talk to those assembled. “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] There were about thirty assembled. There were a number of excellent testimonies given. We hope and pray that the Lord will make this day a day of great blessing to His people.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 64, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 64, 1886, par. 7

I was so rejoiced to read your letter that you were drawing nigh to God, because the promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you,” and when Jesus comes nigh to us, He says, “Peace be unto you.” [James 4:8; John 20:19.] The Lord is our helper, the Lord is our shield; just trust in Him and believe in Him. Unless His arm supports you, you will quickly fall. We have much to learn yet in the school of Christ that we have not learned, and we shall not cease to learn when we exchange earth for heaven. Our religion must have solid rock for our foundation. The truth must be firmly believed and the dependence be wholly upon God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 8, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 8, 1886, par. 15

Do you feel your insufficiency for the position of trust you are in? Thank God for that. The more you feel your weakness, the more you will feel inclined to seek for a helper. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Jesus wants you to be happy, to be cheerful, to do your very best with the ability God has given you, and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those who will be your helpers, in carrying the burdens.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 4, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 4, 1885, par. 4

When Christ told Peter what he should do, Peter answered, “Lord, and what shall this man do?” Jesus said, “What is that to thee? follow thou Me.” [John 21:21, 22.] We want to be very jealous of ourselves. We want to examine ourselves and see if we are in the love of God. Unless Jesus is in us, we are reprobates. Every one of us will be tried; and unless we are closely connected with God, the trials that will come upon us will weaken our already weak faith, and we shall become the sport of Satan’s temptations. But if we are connected with Christ and draw close to Jesus when these trials come, He will draw nigh to us. Satan will have no victory over us. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] We must commit the keeping of our souls to God as unto a faithful Creator.

Faith and Works

Chapter 16—Accepted in Christ

FW 105.4

From these scriptures it is evident that it is not God’s will that you should be distrustful and torture your soul with the fear that God will not accept you because you are sinful and unworthy. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8). Present your case before Him, pleading the merits of the blood shed for you upon Calvary’s cross. Satan will accuse you of being a great sinner, and you must admit this, but you can say: “I know I am a sinner, and that is the reason I need a Saviour. Jesus came into the world to save sinners. ‘The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin’ (1 John 1:7). ‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness’ (Verse 9). I have no merit or goodness whereby I may claim salvation, but I present before God the all-atoning blood of the spotless Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is my only plea. The name of Jesus gives me access to the Father. His ear, His heart, is open to my faintest pleading, and He supplies my deepest necessities.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 59, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 59, 1886, par. 9

Friday. This day opens without fog or clouds, but a strong east wind. I joined [our workers] in their early morning meeting. I gave a short talk to those assembled. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:8. About thirty were present. I felt that Jesus was very near us and that to bless. There were a number of excellent testimonies borne; and I hope and pray that this day may be a blessing to those who have come in to the meetings.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 80, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 80, 1889, par. 3

Our meetings commenced in verity yesterday, Wednesday. I was appointed to speak last night. I felt that sermonizing was not the essential thing now. We want to make some decided move on the Lord’s side. After speaking a short time upon this subject: “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you” [James 4:8], I went into earnest labor. Called for those to come forward who desired to seek the Lord and give themselves wholly to His service. In response sixty-four came forward—not many small children but students, youth attending our college. The Spirit of the Lord was in our midst. Fervent prayers were offered and the Lord did draw nigh to us and that to bless.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 24, 1889

6LtMs, Ms 24, 1889, par. 25

This day our Week of Prayer and labor commences. Meeting was held in the Tabernacle vestry. An excellent meeting is reported. In the evening I spoke in the Tabernacle. “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 10, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 10, 1890, par. 25

May God help us that our eyes may be anointed with eyesalve, that we may see. God helping us we will draw nigh to Him, and He says He will draw nigh to us. [James 4:8.] Do we believe? Will we come in God’s appointed way? May the Lord help us and enlighten us, that we may go forth from this place as they went forth to proclaim the truth after the day of Pentecost, and there were souls converted, they could not resist the testimony.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 24, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 24, 1890, par. 17

The will must be brought into complete harmony with the will of God. When this is done, every ray of light that will shine into the heart and chambers of the mind will not be resisted and the soul barricaded with prejudice, calling light darkness, and darkness light. The light from Heaven is welcomed as light filling all the chambers of the soul, and this is making melody to God. How much do we believe from the heart, “Draw nigh to God, and God will draw nigh to you”? [James 4:8.] This means to be much with the Lord in prayer.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 7, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 7, 1890, par. 2

We have the exhortation, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Well, now we are to consider what “nigh” is. You want to be very nigh to God. You do not want to be standing a great way off. You will not know nor understand the voice of God; and if you hear the voice of God you can not feel the influence that comes from God. Every one that comes into the presence of Christ more closely takes in the influence of His Spirit and breathes the atmosphere which comes from Jesus Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 13, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 13, 1890, par. 22

Dr. Gibbs, may the Lord bless you, is my earnest prayer. Be of good courage, faint not, but be strong in the Lord, yea, be strong. The Lord will open the way before you if you will keep His way and walk humbly before Him. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 7, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 7, 1892, par. 4

Many nights during the past nine months I was enabled to sleep but two hours a night, and then at times darkness would gather about me; but I prayed and realized much sweet comfort in drawing nigh to God. The promises, “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you;” “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him,” were fulfilled to me. [James 4:8; Isaiah 59:19.] I was all light in the Lord. Jesus was sacredly near, and I found the grace given sufficient, for my soul was stayed upon God and I was full of grateful praise to Him who loved me and gave Himself for me. I could say from a full heart, “I know whom I have believed.” 2 Timothy 1:12. “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13. Through Jesus Christ I have come off more than conqueror, and held the vantage ground.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 27, 1891

7LtMs, Ms 27, 1891, par. 26

“Come out from among them and be ye separate,” says the Lord; and again, “Cleanse yourselves.” [2 Corinthians 6:17; James 4:8.] But how are we to know that we have impurity? The law of God shows this. The first four commandments point out duty to God, and the last six allow no selfishness toward our fellow men. When I see that I fail, I flee to the Stronghold. I know that He pardons sins of ignorance. Jesus is a sin-pardoning Saviour. Jesus kept His Father’s commandments, and He says, Blessed are they that do; they shall enter in.

In Heavenly Places

In Harmony With God’s Mind, June 7

HP 165.1

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:8.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 75, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 75, 1893, par. 8

Then I prayed earnestly and realized continually sweet comfort in the promises of God: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.” [Isaiah 59:19.] These promises were fulfilled to me. I knew Jesus came sacredly near, and I found His grace all-sufficient. My soul stayed upon God. I could say from a full heart, “I know in whom I have believed.” [2 Timothy 1:12.] “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will with the temptation make a way of escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” [1 Corinthians 10:13.] Through Christ I came off more than conqueror.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 101, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 101, 1893, par. 2

All the resolutions made in your finite strength are as ropes of straw; but if you pray in sincerity, and surrender soul, body, and spirit unto God, you put on His armor, and you open the soul to the righteousness of Christ; and this alone, Christ’s imputed righteousness, makes you able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Then the work of every soul: resist the enemy in the Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His might, and he will flee from you. But your soul is in great peril. Be assured that you comply with the first part of the text, “Draw nigh to God.” [James 4:8.] How? In secret earnest examination of your own heart and then, with heartfelt, humble, childlike dependence, making known to Jesus all your weakness, confessing all your sins (this is your only hope). “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you.”

8LtMs, Lt 101, 1893, par. 3

But let us read the remaining part of the lesson given for our instruction, that more fully defines what this drawing comprehends, “Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [Verse 8.] Here is an essential work to be done by the human agent, and because this work is not agreeable to the inclination of the human heart, the heart is not in a prepared condition to appreciate the purity and perfection of Christ’s character, and the offensive character of sin is not discerned. Purify your hearts, ye double minded. While professedly a Christian, you have the mold of the world, and the affections are not wrapped up in God—double minded. Making an attempt to serve God and mammon, which the world’s Redeemer declares they cannot do. A double-minded man (trying to serve two masters) is unstable in all his ways. He cannot be depended on; when he is from outward appearance serving God, the heart is yielding to ... [A page is missing here.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 22, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 22, 1894, par. 32

The work of saving souls will not be successful if carried on simply by men’s finite methods. Let God work. Yes, let God work by His own conditions and plans and ways, and let men wonder and admire. The branch grafted into the vine will flourish and bear fruit to the glory of God, because the vital forces flow from the living vine to the branch. Christian religion is today on trial for its life; but it will not live through the multiplicity of men’s plans in turning things upside down, but through the life giving properties that are in Jesus Christ. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 2, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 2, 1895, par. 32

“Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [James 4:8.] When the heart has a deep longing for God, when the mind contemplates the goodness and the loving kindness of God, when the soul hopes and trusts in the Lord, the Holy Spirit will be as a Comforter to the soul. Jesus says, “If ye keep my commandments ye shall abide in my love: even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things are spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” [Colossians 4:6.] Will we be obedient to these inspired words that come sounding down the lines of time? The purpose to which we are called is an exalted one.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 11a, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 11a, 1895, par. 17

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [James 4:8.] When the heart has a deep longing for God, when the mind contemplates the goodness and lovingkindness of God, when the soul hopes and trusts in the Lord, the Holy Spirit will be as a comforter to the soul. Jesus says, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” [Colossians 4:6.] Will we be obedient to these inspired words that come sounding down the line to our time?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 32, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 32, 1895, par. 8

“Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] He came to take away our sins. He came to give us His righteousness and make us complete in Him. We cannot, any one of us, aside from Christ improve ourselves, or be a blessing to others, only through the merits of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour. We each have our cross to bear; but let us bear it after Jesus, feeling highly honored to follow Him, and sing as we go, “Jesus, I my cross have taken, all to leave and follow Thee.” Follow where Jesus leads the way. “The rains may descend, and the floods may come, and the winds may blow, and may beat upon that house; but the house will not fall, for it is founded upon the rock.” [See Matthew 7:25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 88a, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 88a, 1895, par. 24

I am writing to you by lamp-light; but this is the only letter I have been able to write for America. I have not time to even read it over, so excuse all blunders and mistakes. The Lord bless you both, my dear children, and as you draw nigh to God, remember the promise that He will draw nigh unto you. [James 4:8.] Press onward and upward to victory and the receiving of the crown of life, the immortal crown, a glory that will never be taken from you. But whatever any man or men shall do to discourage you, grip the hold, fasten firm upon God, and draw with Christ to save perishing souls. Whatever men shall do, whatever may be their failings, you are to be just and holy in the sight of God, and do your duty for time and for eternity.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]

MR No. 530—“Surface Religion”-Will It Stand the Test?

8MR 13.2

What have God’s people to learn? “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God.” (1 Peter 5:6.) “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” (James 4:8.) There is work, solid work, to be done for every soul that shall stand in the great day of the Lord. “Therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature: old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 29, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, par. 7

There has been enmity between God and your souls, and you will never become reconciled to Him by keeping away from Him. He has said, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Every soul must come and partake of the heavenly banquet for his individual self. All the precious things God that have been provided at such an infinite cost will do you no good, will not strengthen and invigorate you, and produce spiritual growth, unless you eat the words of God, and make them a part of yourself.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 119, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 119, 1897, par. 11

If we would only believe that angels of God are constantly around us to protect us from Satan’s snares, and to be a present help in every time of need, we would grow strong. Sensing the companionship we have, we would do the things that are pleasing in the sight of God. How careful would we be lest our words should offend Christ whose character we are to represent to the world. We need to meditate and converse upon the love and compassion and mercy of God for us. Satan is not at all pleased with such pure, ennobling, and elevating themes, and he draws apart from us. It is for this reason that the words are given us, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Let your thoughts and conversation be upon heavenly things. God’s promise to us is, “I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” [Jeremiah 31:33.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 3, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 3, 1897, par. 20

This is the final judgment. Let the senses of all be aroused; for many whose names now appear on the church books are not the children of God. In the books of heaven it is recorded of them, “Thou art weighed in the balances, and found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.] Let every church in our land arouse to the importance of studying the Word of God, and with much earnest prayer, not stand afar off, but “draw nigh unto God.” The promise is, “He will draw nigh unto you.” [James 4:8.] Then you may keep life in your souls, and obtain a sound experience. Then you will not be of that class of whom it is written, “And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.” [Matthew 24:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 107, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 107, 1898, par. 11

The Lord calls upon every one who names His name to depart from all iniquity. “Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [James 4:8.] You cannot be the servant of Jesus Christ and of the world at the same time. There are men who have talents and capabilities, who can do very much better than they have done. The truth received in the heart will never make the possessor coarse and rough and uncourteous. It refines his taste, sanctifies his judgment, makes him kind, patient, long-suffering, merciful, of tender compassion. Truth is always refining and ennobling in its influence. A transformation takes place in the character; ignorance is seen as a sin. The hasty temper, which often leads to a course of action which makes Christ ashamed to call them brethren will be overcome by persevering effort. Human depravity, which has had its stamp upon him, will be mastered, because he is a student in the school of Christ. “Wherefore my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” [James 1:19, 20.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 21, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 21, 1898, par. 16

Angels of God are drawn toward all who in their thoughts and devoted service drawn nigh to God. The Word of inspiration is, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double-minded.” [James 4:8.] It is a great misfortune to be doubled-minded. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 120a, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 120a, 1898, par. 6

“All things are possible to him that believeth.” [Mark 9:23.] We need not try to lead ourselves, but be led, be guided, be sanctified, through the truth. We want now, just now, to surrender self and all its worries, and all its perplexity. If we live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God, we are possessing the richest grace mortals can have. If we look on the dark side and talk unbelief, we shall have a plenty of that commodity. But throw this rubbish overboard, and take the [oars] of faith and row for your life. Do not think of self, but of Jesus Christ. “Draw nigh to God” [James 4:8], then you will draw nigh to one another. You will love your brethren and consider that Jesus intercedes for the erring souls.

Our Father Cares

Take Hold of Divine Strength, September 20

OFC 275.2

The Lord loves you. The Lord is of tender compassion. His promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8). When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up for you a standard against him. Bear in mind that Jesus Christ is your hope. In the sad, discouraging things that shall come to you at any time, Christ says to you, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me” (Isaiah 27:5).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 164, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 164, 1899, par. 16

What have God’s people to learn? “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God. ... Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double-minded.” [1 Peter 5:6; James 4:8.] There is work, solid work, to be done for every soul that shall stand in the great day of the Lord. “Therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature. Old things are passed away, and, behold, all things are become new.” [2 Corinthians 5:17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 125, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 125, 1900, par. 2

The Lord loves you. The Lord is of tender compassion. His promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up for you a standard against him. Bear in mind that Jesus Christ is your hope. In the sad, discouraging things that shall come to you at any time, Christ says to you, “Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] Your work is to take hold of the strength that is as firm as is the eternal throne. Believe in God. Trust in Him. Be cheerful under all circumstances.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 128, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, par. 19

When conquered, self is hid with Christ in God. It is through the unseen struggles of the “inner man” [Ephesians 3:16] for supremacy, that the world is to be conquered. The crucifixion of fleshly lusts gives the human agent mastery over the devil. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 92, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, par. 10

If we desire to be of that number who will be accounted worthy, we should hold ourselves in such consecration, devotion, and humility that the enemy cannot take control of our minds. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [1 Peter 5:6; James 4:8.] Draw nigh to Him by prayer, by contemplation, by reading His Word. When He draws nigh to you, He lifts up for you a standard against the enemy. Let us take courage, for the enemy cannot pass this standard.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 208, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 208, 1902, par. 49

My brethren, you need to bear in mind that you are in the presence of One who has “compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that He Himself also is compassed with infirmity.” [Hebrews 5:2.] Let all our workers in every place keep this in mind. He who puts his trust in Christ can never be severed from Him by any man. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Will you believe this, even when sorely tempted by Satan to speak inadvisedly? Not a word can be spoken to arouse in another man’s mind feelings that will unbalance him, but that Christ Himself is hurt in the person of one of the members of His family.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 30, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 30, 1902, par. 2

The world refuses to accept Jesus. We must, then, come out from the world, and be separate. We must repent and be converted, that our sins may be blotted out. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” [Romans 12:1, 2.] The Lord and yourself, united, can so subdue your strong, defiant will, that it will be changed from an unsanctified will to a will molded and fashioned after the divine similitude.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 145, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 145, 1902, par. 10

Last night I slept well. I know the Lord is hearing my prayers. I desire to draw nigh to Him; for the Word declares, “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] This promise I value. I have proved it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 89, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 89, 1902, par. 10

My dear brother and sister, your letter is received. I am sincerely sorry that you are not well. I have not been well, but I am improving. I can now write, but not as much as I have written in the past. I fear for my eyesight. I endeavor to draw near to God; for the promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] With this promise, what excuse is there for despondency?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 15, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 15, 1903, par. 11

Place yourselves in right relation to God. Ask Him to cleanse you from all iniquity and to heal you of your backsliding and your forgetfulness of Him. He says, “Draw nigh to Me, and I will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] He asks you to teach His lessons to your children. This is your work. Your children are God’s property. He sent His Son to die for them. He has redeemed them. He wants you to begin to work for the church in your own house. Teach your children to keep the way of the Lord, to walk humbly before Him. Teach them to be His missionaries in the church and in the world.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 190, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 190, 1903, par. 39

Well, now, have you waited? Have you folded your hands and prescribed what you are going to do, and made terms what you will do? Or do you say, Lord, use me in any place, however humble. I cannot get a place lower than You have taken for me; I cannot suffer more. It is not possible for me to suffer more personal suffering than you have suffered for me. You were crucified to make it possible for us to be saved, that we might have eternal life. And here is the work that is to be carried on right now in this life. We are forming a character, every one of us. We can form a character after the Christlikeness. We can form that character. We must form it with the power and intelligence and capabilities which God has given us and placed within our reach, with His power to help us in every advance step. “Draw nigh to God, and He will (there are no ifs or ands about it) draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] There is a power for us.

Our High Calling

The Closer, the Safer, March 31

OHC 96.1

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. James 4:8.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 250, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 250, 1903, par. 12

But even when wickedness is at its height, we may know that our Helper is close by our side. Let us have faith and confidence in God. The promise is, “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 338, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 338, 1905, par. 3

I have hoped and prayed that you would understand your danger. He who reads the heart says, “Draw nigh to Me, and I will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] He will draw near you and will do for you that which no other power can do. He will lift up for you a standard against the enemy. Will you not surrender your will to the will of God? This is your only hope. Thus only can you obtain the victory over the enemy. Your repentance must be genuine, else it will not be acceptable to the Lord. Unless your heart is radically changed, you can never be a conqueror. The Lord has sought to convict and convert you, that you may serve Him without pretense. He reads every impulse of the heart, and He knows that your only hope is in changing leaders. This you have not yet done. You cannot build on the Rock until you see and understand yourself in the light that shines from the cross of Calvary. The Lord bids me say to you that the light shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 73, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 73, 1907, par. 6

God is the teacher of His people. All who humble their hearts before Him will be taught of God. “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.” [James 1:5.] The Lord wants every church member to pray earnestly for wisdom, that he may know what the Lord would have him do. It is the privilege of every believer to obtain an individual experience, learning to carry his cares and perplexities to God. It is written, “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 55, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 55, 1908, par. 11

“Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] “Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, and waiting at the posts of my doors.” [Proverbs 8:34.] “He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might He increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall; but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and shall not faint.” [Isaiah 40:29-31.] “In the day that I called He answered me, and strengthened me with strength in my soul.” [Psalm 138:3.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Complete Saviour, May 4

JNN 135.4

Do you feel your insufficiency for the position of trust that you occupy? Thank God for this. The more you feel your weakness, the more you will be inclined to seek for a helper. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8). Jesus wants you to be happy, to be cheerful. He wants you to do your best with the ability that God has given you and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those who will be your helpers in carrying burdens.—Counsels for the Church, 55, 56.

Selected Messages Book 2

Learned Lessons from the Months of Suffering

2SM 241.2

Many nights during the past nine months I was enabled to sleep but two hours a night, and then at times darkness would gather about me; but I prayed, and realized much sweet comfort in drawing nigh to God. The promises, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8), “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him” (Isaiah 59:19), were fulfilled to me. I was all light in the Lord. Jesus was sacredly near, and I found the grace given sufficient, for my soul was stayed upon God, and I was full of grateful praise to Him who loved me and gave Himself for me. I could say from a full heart, “I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12). “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Through Jesus Christ I have come off more than conqueror, and held the vantage ground.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Our Burden Bearer

8T 128.3

Do you feel your insufficiency for the position of trust that you occupy? Thank God for this. The more you feel your weakness, the more you will be inclined to seek for a helper. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” James 4:8. Jesus wants you to be happy, to be cheerful. He wants you to do your best with the ability that God has given you and then trust the Lord to help you and to raise up those who will be your helpers in carrying burdens.

That I May Know Him

Drawing Nigh to God, August 28

TMK 246.1

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. James 4:8.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Happiness or Misery

1TT 201.3

You must overcome your sensitiveness and faultfinding. You are jealous that others do not give you all the attention you think you should have. The experience founded in feeling, and savoring of fanaticism, you must not adhere to. It is unsafe. Move from principle, from thorough understanding. Search the Scriptures, and be able to give to every man that asketh you the reasons of the hope which is in you, with meekness and fear. Let self-exaltation die. “Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.” James 4:8, 9. When harassed with temptations and evil thoughts, there is but One to whom you can flee for relief and succor. Flee to Him in your weakness. When near Him, Satan’s arrows are broken and cannot harm you. Your trials and temptations borne in God will purify and humble, but will not destroy or endanger you.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 22a, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 22a, 1890, par. 2

Your only hope is in being converted. Fall on the Rock and be broken. You are full of self-esteem, self-sufficiency, and this separates the spirit of God from you; but there are also greater evils that exist in your life and character which disqualify you for handling sacred things. Will you consider the fact that there is a witness present with you who knows the most secret chapters of your life? These chapters have been opened before me, but I hope that I shall not be obliged to open them before others. I have not, as yet revealed, your life experience, hoping that your conscience would become aroused, and if it did awaken, that you might see yourself as you are. Humble your soul before God before it is forever too late for wrongs to be righted. Will you improve the present opportunity to draw nigh to God? You have not a true realization of what sin is. You feel righteous in your own eyes, but your heart is corrupt. “Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.” [James 4:8, 9.] Is it not time for you to be alarmed?

Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]

MR No. 1354—Counsel Against Foolish Talking and Jesting; Christ our Example

18MR 370.1

We profess to believe that the end of all things is at hand. “What manner of persons,” the apostle inquires, “ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness?” 2 Peter 3:11. James exhorts us, “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” James 4:8-10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 22, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 22, 1906, par. 14

The Lord Jesus is the source of all power. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:8-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 139, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 139, 1907, par. 24

Close, heart-searching work is required of those who minister the Word. Let this investigation take place now. They should be converted at heart who preach the Word. True repentance must be experienced by every minister who would in his ministry reach the pattern set for him in Christ. We need far less of preaching, and far more of earnest, humble seeking of the Lord. In our early experiences in the message, when we assembled for camp meeting, ministers’ meetings were often held in the early morning, when the workers sought for deep conviction of heart and true conversion, as a preparation for the work to be done at the meeting. Sins were confessed to one another and to God. Thorough work was done. At this time, even more than then, we need to seek the Lord in simplicity of heart. God says to us: “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” [James 4:10.]

22LtMs, Ms 139, 1907, par. 26

“Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” [James 4:8-10.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]

MR No. 1070—Relating to Trials and Suffering

13MR 364.1

The Lord Jesus is the Source of all power. “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up” [James 4:8-10].—Letter 22, 1906, pp. 5, 6. (To W. C. White, January 8, 1906.)

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1580—Admonitions for a Wayward Minister

21MR 385.5

I ask myself the question, “How is it possible for men who are opening the Scriptures to others—men who have abundance of light, men who have good ability, men who are living as in the face of the judgment, upon the very borders of the eternal world—to give their thoughts and bodies to unholy practices?” Well may the words of the apostle be repeated with emphasis: “Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up” [James 4:8-10]. “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: [Some have argued thus, and thought that for certain reasons they have of their own, God would have them take the course they did.] for God cannot be tempted of evil, neither tempteth He any man: but every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death” [James 1:12-15].

Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce

Chapter 27—An Honored Minister

TSB 193.2

I ask myself the question, “How is it possible for men who are opening the Scriptures to others—men who have abundance of light—men who have good ability—men who are living in the face of the judgment, upon the very borders of the eternal world—to give their thoughts and bodies to unholy practices? Well may the words of the apostle be repeated with emphasis: “Cleanse your hands, ye sinners: and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up” (James 4:8-10).—Letter 51, 1886.

To Be Like Jesus

By Prayer, Prepare for Convocations, January 21

BLJ 28.1

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. James 4:8-10, NKJV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 11, 1868

1LtMs, Ms 11, 1868, par. 8

We profess to believe that the end of all things is at hand. “What manner of persons,” the apostle inquires, “ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness?” 2 Peter 3:11. James exhorts us, “Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” James 4:8-10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 51, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 51, 1886, par. 23

I tell you the truth, Eld. Butler, that unless there is a cleansing of the soul temple on the part of many who claim to believe and to preach the truth, God’s judgments, long deferred, will come. These debasing sins have not been handled with firmness and decision. There is roughness in the soul; and unless it is cleansed by the blood of Christ, there will be apostasies among us that will startle you. I ask myself the question, How is it possible for men who are opening the Scriptures to others; men who have abundance of light; men who have good ability; men who are living as in the face of the judgment upon the very borders of the eternal world, to give their thoughts and bodies to unholy practices? Well may the words of the apostle be repeated with emphasis: “Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourself in the sight of God, and He will lift you up.” [James 4:8-10.] “Blessed is the man who endureth temptations; for when he is tried he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: (some have argued thus and thought, that for certain reasons they have of their own, God would have them take the course they did) for God cannot be tempted of evil, neither tempteth He any man. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin when it is finished bringeth forth death.” [James 1:12-15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 128, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 128, 1895, par. 16

The last Sabbath, after speaking to the people, I felt urged by the Spirit of God to again make the call to come forward to the front seats, and we [would] all unite in presenting ourselves before the Lord for His blessing. The promise of God was fulfilled: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded. ... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:8-10. Several who had not responded before came forward and expressed themselves that they had hoped the invitation would be repeated. They were melted in heart and with much weeping and rejoicing confessed that the Lord had blessed them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 128a, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 128a, 1895, par. 14

The last Sabbath, after speaking to the people again, I felt urged by the Spirit of God to repeat the call, Come forward, and all unite in presenting ourselves before the Lord for His blessing. And the promise of God was fulfilled, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh unto you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your minds, ye double minded. ... Humble yourselves in the sight of God, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:8, 10.] Several that had not responded before came forward and expressed themselves that they hoped the invitation would be repeated. They were melted in heart, and with much weeping and rejoicing, they confessed that the Lord had blessed them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 85, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 85, 1898, par. 5

Precious are the promises made to all who believe in God’s Word. “For thus saith the high and holy One, that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy, I dwell in the high and holy place: with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the hearts of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands ye sinners: and purify your hearts, ye double minded. ... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [James 4:8, 10.] In this promise there is also encouragement for the erring.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 187, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 187, 1898, par. 9

It was eleven o’clock before we were prepared to retire after parting with W. C. White and our friends at the station. We had sufficient air in our sleeping compartment. I felt very peaceful and quiet in the Lord. I prayed that the Lord would impress hearts with the fact that it was not what they would do that would make the meeting a success, but that their success would lie in their entire surrender to God. If each would place himself where he could be worked, he must not stand to criticize others, to make apparent their defects. This is Satan’s special work. We are not to seek to humble others. The Word of God exhorts us, “Humble yourselves under the hand of God, and he will lift you up.” [1 Peter 5:6; James 4:10.]

13LtMs, Ms 187, 1898, par. 28

There are some here who have been standing in their own light. Some have been ready to discover the evil, and talk of the evil, but the good they have seen in their brethren they have not commended. Those who are ready to speak and think evil of their brethren are hurting Christ in the person of His saints. They grieve the heart of Christ, and place their own souls in jeopardy. Let us consider that this meeting is a holy convocation. God is here to behold your order, and He sees everything in words and actions that is not in harmony with the Spirit of God. He designs that this series of meetings, from the very beginning, shall lead us to humble ourselves. Let us consider Him who humbled Himself to the lowest depths to make it possible that we should be uplifted. Shall we not reveal that we appreciate the sacrifice made, and, in the place of encouraging selfishness, resist the devil? The Word exhorts us, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Then when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up for us a standard against the enemy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 151, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 2

It was eleven o’clock before we were prepared to retire after parting with W. C. White and our friends at the station. We had sufficient air in our sleeping compartment. I felt very peaceful and quiet in the Lord. I prayed that the Lord would impress hearts with the fact that it was not what they would do that would make the meeting a success, but that their success would lie in their entire surrender to God. If each would place himself where he could be worked, he must not stand to criticize others, to make apparent their defects. This is Satan’s special work. We are not to seek to humble others. The Word of God exhorts us to “humble yourselves under the hand of God, and he will lift you up.” [1 Peter 5:6; James 4:10.]

13LtMs, Ms 151, 1898, par. 22

God is here to behold your order, and He sees everything in words and actions that is not in harmony with the Spirit of God. He designs that this series of meetings, from the very beginning shall lead us to humble ourselves. Let us consider Him who humbled Himself to the lowest depths to make it possible that we should be uplifted. Shall we not reveal that we appreciate the sacrifice made and, in the place of encouraging selfishness, resist the devil. The Word exhorts us, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Then when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up for us a standard against the enemy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 93, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, par. 36

What does the Scripture say? “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?” [James 4:8-12.]

My Life Today

Bow Before God, January 27

ML 31.1

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. James 4:10.

Our High Calling

Proper Level of the Human Mind, April 18

OHC 114.1

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. James 4:10.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 11, 1887

5LtMs, Lt 11, 1887, par. 3

We are nearing the judgment, when every case shall stand before God in its true bearing, when every secret thing that men have done, with the motive, will appear, that governed their life. The end of all things is at hand, and all our works will be judged. If our ambition is to be first, then we shall be last; if we are willing to suffer something for Christ’s sake, if we are striving for spirituality, then the Lord will honor all such ambition to excel. But if we are seeking to satisfy an unholy, selfish ambition, God will humble the one who does this. But the Lord has spoken through His apostle, “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, and He shall lift you up.” [1 Peter 5:6; James 4:10.] God knows us all by name. He knows what spirit is in us and will finally reward us as our works have been. If you speak to the disparagement of your associates with your patients, you are exerting an influence which, in the place of building up, is doing injustice to them. None need to be in darkness in regard to the spirit which he possesses. All these are the special attributes of Satan and close the gate of heaven against all who do these things. For this class will be without the holy city. Is heaven of any value to us? Then let us put away all sins, that we may stand approved of God. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.” [Galatians 5:22, 23.] And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 87, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 87, 1898, par. 19

This testimony is needed in Melbourne: “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he will lift you up. Speak not evil one of another brethren.” [James 4:10, 11.] Those very things that are now being expressed by you are the very things which the Lord presented to me when W. C. White was in Melbourne, and these things will prove a hindrance to you unless there is a humbling of the hearts of ministers and people—in the office of publication, in the church, and in the different branches of the work.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 33—From Sinai to Kadesh

PP 385.2

It should not be regarded as a light thing to speak evil of others or to make ourselves judges of their motives or actions. “He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.” James 4:11. There is but one judge—He “who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts.” 1 Corinthians 4:5. And whoever takes it upon himself to judge and condemn his fellow men is usurping the prerogative of the Creator.

That I May Know Him

A Time to Close the Mind, June 27

TMK 184.1

Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. James 4:11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 75a, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 75a, 1900, par. 3

God has forbidden us to think or speak evil of our brethren. “Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law. But if thou judgest the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is one lawgiver, who is able to save or to destroy. Who art thou that judgest another?” [James 4:11, 12.] Those who act toward their fellow men without mercy will one day feel themselves the need of mercy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 109, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 109, 1896, par. 23

Remember how brief is the period of life allotted to you. You know not how soon your probation may close. Say not presumptuously, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain.” God may have different calculations for you. You have no lease of life in which to carry out your plans. Life is but a vapor, “that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” [James 4:13, 14.] You know not how soon your hand may lose its cunning, your step its firmness. There is peril even in a moment’s delay. Cast your care upon the Lord, and on no account divorce religion from the business you engage in, whatever it may be. “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” [Philippians 4:6.]

To Be Like Jesus

Improving Opportunities for Service, March 6

BLJ 74.1

Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. James 4:14, NKJV.