EGW WritingsJeremiah 17

Loma Linda Messages

E. G. White to Physicians & Manager at Loma Linda, Feb. 20, 1908 (B.-82-’08)

LLM 353.7

We feel encouraged to believe that Elder Reaser has placed himself in right relation to the work, determined to labor harmoniously with his brethren. There are in Southern Calif. a goodly number of men of experience. But more, you have assurance from the highest Authority: “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.” “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is; for he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, that spreadeth out her roots by the river; and shall not see when heat cometh; but her leaf shall be green, and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” The whole of the seventeenth chapter of Jeremiah, which records, this precious promise, is worthy of your special study....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 16a, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 16a, 1885, par. 39

It is a beautiful morning. We have no seasickness as yet. Last evening we enjoyed a beautiful sunset. The broad ocean was all that we could see surrounding us, and the sun went out of sight in the broad waters. We went into the dining room to attend services. Under the Episcopalian services, prayers were read, and chapters in the Old and New Testaments that were very appropriate for the occasion. The hymns sung were excellent in sentiment. The chapter read first was in Jeremiah. The second was in the New Testament in regard to the shipwreck of Paul. I wrote eight pages and prepared a reported article for the press. We were on deck most of the time.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 82, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 82, 1908, par. 3

We feel encouraged to believe that Elder Reaser has placed himself in right relation to the work, determined to labor harmoniously with his brethren. There are in Southern California a goodly number of men of experience. But more, you have assurance from the highest Authority: “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.] “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is; for he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, that spreadeth out her roots by the river; and shall not see when heat cometh; but her leaf shall be green, and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:7, 8.] The whole of the seventeenth chapter of Jeremiah, which records this precious promise, is worthy of our special study.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 34, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 34, 1899, par. 13

“The sin of Judah is written with a pen of iron, and with the point of a diamond, it is graven upon the table of their heart, and upon the horns of your altars; whilst their children remember their altars and their groves by their green trees upon the hills. O my mountain in the field, I will give thy substance and all thy treasures to the spoil, and thy high places to sin, throughout all thy borders. And thou, even thyself, shalt discontinue from thy heritage that I gave thee; and I will cause thee to serve thy enemies in the land which thou knowest not: for ye have kindled a fire in mine anger, which shall burn forever.” [Jeremiah 17:1-4.]

14LtMs, Lt 34, 1899, par. 14

Thus God denounces all wickedness, especially in those who occupy positions of trust. Each man and woman has an individual case pending in the heavenly courts. We all need to realize that if we would gain salvation, we must form characters which God can approve, characters of integrity, of truthfulness. We must be as true as steel to principle. We are not to be led astray by men nor trust in men. “Thus saith the Lord, Cursed is the man that trusteth in man and maketh flesh his arm, whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heat in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh, but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land not inhabited.” [Verses 5, 6.]

14LtMs, Lt 34, 1899, par. 20

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:7, 8.]

14LtMs, Lt 34, 1899, par. 24

“And it shall come to pass, If ye diligently hearken unto me, saith the Lord, to bring in no burden through the gate of this city on the Sabbath day, but hallow the Sabbath day, to do no work therein; then shall there enter into the gates of this city kings and princes sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, they, and their princes, the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem: and this city shall remain forever. And they shall come from the cities of Judah, and from the places about Jerusalem, and from the land of Benjamin, and from the plain, and from the mountains, and from the south, bringing burnt offerings, and sacrifices, and meat offerings, and incense, and bringing sacrifices of praise, unto the house of the Lord. But if ye will not hearken unto me to hallow the Sabbath day, and not to bear a burden, even entering in at the gates of Jerusalem on the Sabbath day; then will I kindle a fire in the gates thereof, and it shall devour the palaces of Jerusalem, and it shall not be quenched.” [Verses 9-27.]

Counsels to Writers and Editors

Chapter 23—The Author’s Stewardship

CW 164.2

No greater dishonor can be shown to God than for one man to bring another man’s talents under his absolute control. The evil is not obviated by the fact that the profits of the transaction are to be devoted to the cause of God. In such arrangements the man who allows his mind to be ruled by the mind of another is thus separated from God and exposed to temptation. In shifting the responsibility of his stewardship upon other men, and depending on their wisdom, he is placing man where God should be. Those who are seeking to bring about this shifting of responsibility are blinded as to the result of their action; but God has plainly set it before us. He says, “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.” Jeremiah 17:5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 139, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 139, 1903, par. 4

I am awakened in the night season, saying, “Trust not in men, and make not flesh your arm.” [See Jeremiah 17:5.] By the mighty cleaver of truth God has brought His people, as rough stones, from the quarry of the world. These stones must be squared and polished. The rough edges must be removed. This is a painful process; but it is a necessary one. Without it, we could not be prepared for a place in God’s temple. By trial, by warnings, by admonitions, God seeks to prepare us to fulfil His purpose. If we co-operate with Him, our characters will be fashioned “after the similitude of a palace.” [Psalm 144:12.] It is the specified work of the Comforter to transform us. At times it is hard for us to submit to the purifying, refining process. But this we must do if we would be saved at last.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Chapter 34—The Author

7T 177.4

No greater dishonor can be shown to God than for one man to bring another man’s talents under his absolute control. The evil is not obviated by the fact that the profits of the transaction are to be devoted to the cause of God. In such arrangements the man who allows his mind to be ruled by the mind of another is thus separated from God and exposed to temptation. In shifting the responsibility of his stewardship upon other men, and depending on their wisdom, he is placing man where God should be. Those who are seeking to bring about this shifting of responsibility are blinded as to the result of their action, but God has plainly set it before us. He says: “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.” Jeremiah 17:5.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 45—The Foreshadowing of the Cross

DA 414.3

“The head of every man is Christ.” God, who put all things under the Saviour’s feet, “gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all.” 1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 1:22, 23. The church is built upon Christ as its foundation; it is to obey Christ as its head. It is not to depend upon man, or be controlled by man. Many claim that a position of trust in the church gives them authority to dictate what other men shall believe and what they shall do. This claim God does not sanction. The Saviour declares, “All ye are brethren.” All are exposed to temptation, and are liable to error. Upon no finite being can we depend for guidance. The Rock of faith is the living presence of Christ in the church. Upon this the weakest may depend, and those who think themselves the strongest will prove to be the weakest, unless they make Christ their efficiency. “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.” The Lord “is the Rock, His work is perfect.” “Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Jeremiah 17:5; Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 2:12.

Testimonies on Fair Dealing and Book Royalties

The Author

PH102 11.3

No greater dishonor can be shown to God than for one man to bring another man’s talents under his absolute control. The evil is not obviated by the fact that the profits of the transaction are to be devoted to the cause of God. In such arrangements the man who allows his mind to be ruled by the mind of another is thus separated from God and exposed to temptation. In shifting the responsibility of his stewardship upon other men, and depending on their wisdom, he is placing man where God should be. Those who are seeking to bring about this shifting of responsibility are blinded as to the result of their action; but God has plainly set it before us. He says, “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.” Jeremiah 17:5.

The Publishing Ministry

Chapter 21—Writers and Royalties

PM 231.5

No greater dishonor can be shown to God than for one man to bring another man’s talents under his absolute control. The evil is not obviated by the fact that the profits of the transaction are to be devoted to the cause of God. In such arrangements the man who allows his mind to be ruled by the mind of another is thus separated from God and exposed to temptation. In shifting the responsibility of his stewardship upon other men, and depending on their wisdom, he is placing man where God should be. Those who are seeking to bring about this shifting of responsibility are blinded as to the result of their action, but God has plainly set it before us. He says: “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.” Jeremiah 17:5.

The Review and Herald

April 16, 1889

RH April 16, 1889, par. 1

Text: “Thus saith the Lord: Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.” Jeremiah 17:5.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 45—The Foreshadowing of the Cross

HLv 279.5

“The head of every man is Christ.” God, who put all things under the Saviour’s feet, “gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all.” 1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 1:22, 23. The church is built on Christ as its foundation. It is not to depend on man or be controlled by man. Many claim that a position of trust in the church gives them authority to dictate what other men shall believe and do. The Saviour declares, “All ye are brethren.” Matthew 23:8. Upon no finite being can we depend for guidance. The Rock of faith is the living presence of Christ in the church. Those who think themselves the strongest will prove to be the weakest, unless they make Christ their efficiency. See Jeremiah 17:5; Psalm 2:12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 15, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 15, 1886, par. 5

God would have us ever refuse to plead against the truth. His frown is upon all that is false or unfair. This should be the position of every one who stands to minister in the service of his Master. For if one to whom God has entrusted holy responsibilities allows envy, evil surmising, prejudice, and jealousies to find place in the heart, he is guilty of breaking the law of God. And his words, his ideas, and his errors will extend just as far as his sphere of influence extends. God says to every man to whom He entrusts responsibilities, “Put not your trust in man, neither make flesh your arm.” [Jeremiah 17:5.] Look to God. Trust in His infallible wisdom. Regard as a sin the practice so common, even among Seventh-day Adventists, of becoming the echo of any man, however lofty his position. Listen to the voice of the great Shepherd, and you will never be led astray. Search the Scriptures for yourself, and be braced for duty and for trial by the truth of God’s Word. Let no friendship, no influence, no entreaty; let not the smiles, the confidence, or the rewards of any man induce you to swerve from the path in which the Lord would lead you. Let Christlike integrity and consistency control the actions of your life. The man who sits most at the feet of Jesus, and is taught by the Saviour’s spirit, will be ready to cry out, “I am weak and unworthy, but Christ is my strength and my righteousness.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 8, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 8, 1895, par. 44

I point you to Jesus. Stand forth in moral power in God. You are doing service, not for man, but for God, who is to bless you. As we consult one with another and compare ideas, all our propositions are to be fully considered, frankly discussed, and acted upon; but one man is only a part of the great whole, and he is not to be mind and judgment for the whole body of believers. Our great weakness is in placing men where God should be, to be looked up to and confided in. What are these men? Only bruised reeds unless they put their confidence and trust just where it is your privilege to put your trust and dependence. Why is the caution given, “Trust not in man, neither make flesh your arm”? [Jeremiah 17:5.] For the very reason that men have failed in a time when it was necessary for them to be entirely shut in with God, walking with fear and trembling before Him, true as the compass to the pole.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 16—“Lost, and Is Found”

COL 201.1

If you have chosen such a life, you know that you are spending money for that which is not bread, and labor for that which satisfieth not. There come to you hours when you realize your degradation. Alone in the far country you feel your misery, and in despair you cry, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. It is the statement of a universal truth which is contained in the prophet’s words, “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.” Jeremiah 17:5, 6. God “maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust” (Matthew 5:45); but men have the power to shut themselves away from sunshine and shower. So while the Sun of Righteousness shines, and the showers of grace fall freely for all, we may by separating ourselves from God still “inhabit the parched places in the wilderness.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 102, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 102, 1894, par. 28

He finds an all-absorbing, commanding, attractive character in Jesus Christ, the One who died to deliver him from the deformity of sin, and with quivering lip and tearful eye he declares, “He shall not have died for me in vain. Thy gentleness hath made me great.” How prone we are on all occasions to look to our fellow men for sympathy for uplifting, instead of looking to Jesus. How ready is the human agent to forsake the fountain of living waters, the cool snow waters of Lebanon, and drink of the turbid streams of our valley. O, in his mercy and faithfulness, God will cause our fellow men [in] whom we place confidence to fail us in order that we my learn the folly of trusting in man and making flesh our arm. Listen to the words of the prophet see Jeremiah 17:5-6. Talk of heavenly things, talk of the eternal weight of glory that will be awarded to the overcomer, and you will have success in your work.

This Day With God

Trust and Obey, February 25

TDG 64.1

Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.... Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. Jeremiah 17:5-7.

The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters

February 6, 1894

PC 107.1

He finds an all absorbing, commanding, attractive character in Jesus Christ, the One who died to deliver him from the deformity of sin, and with quivering lip and tearful eye he declares, “He shall not have died for me in vain. Thy gentleness hath made me great.” How prone we are on all occasions to look to our fellowmen for sympathy for uplifting, instead of looking to Jesus! How ready is the human agent to forsake the fountain of living waters, the cool snow waters of Lebanon, and drink of the turbid streams of the valley. O, in His mercy and faithfulness, God will cause our fellow-men in whom we place confidence to fail us in order that we may learn the folly of trusting in man, and making flesh our arm. Listen to the words of the prophet: (see Jeremiah 17:5-8). Talk of heavenly things, talk of the eternal weight of glory that will be awarded to the overcomer, and you will have success in your work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 8a, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 8a, 1890, par. 13

It is a dangerous thing to leave persons in the path that you have taken for granted was the true path. I tell you it is not the Bible path. “Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:5-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 60, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 60, 1895, par. 12

“For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:5-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 14, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 14, 1903, par. 48

“Thus saith the Lord: Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land, and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:5-8.] Let us rely on God. He never fails a trusting soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 128, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 128, 1908, par. 4

“Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and he shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green.” Jeremiah 17:5-8.

Fundamentals of Christian Education

Chapter 29—To Teachers and Students

FE 222.3

I am alarmed for you at Battle Creek. Teachers are very exact in visiting with denunciation and punishments those students who violate the slight rules, not from any vicious purpose, but heedlessly; or circumstances occur which make it no sin for them to deviate from rules which have been made, and which should not be held with inflexibility if transgressed, and yet the person in fault is treated as if he had grievously sinned. Now I want you to consider, teachers, where you stand, and deal with yourselves and pronounce judgment against yourselves; for you have not only infringed the rules, but you have been so sharp, so severe upon students; and more than this, there is a controversy between you and God. You have not made straight paths for your feet lest the lame be turned out of the way. You have departed from safe paths. I say “teachers”; I do not specify names. I leave that to your own consciences to appropriate. The Lord God of Israel has wrought in your midst again and again. You have had great evidences of the stately steppings of the Most High. But a period of great light, of the wonderful revealings of the Spirit and power of God, is a period of great peril, lest the light shall not be improved. Will you consider Jeremiah 17:5-10; 18:12-15? For you are most surely coming under the rebuke of God. Light has been shining in clear and steady rays upon you. What has this light done for you? Christ, the Chief Shepherd, is looking upon you with displeasure, and is inquiring, “Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock?” “Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood.” “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind.”

Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]

MR No. 1266—Church Leaders to be Humble and Spirit-Filled; Board Members Not to Serve Indefinitely

[Jeremiah 2:11-13; 7:3-11; Jeremiah 17:5-10; 18:11-15, quoted.]

Pastoral Ministry

Teachers

PaM 238.4

Christian teachers, knowing they sometimes break God’s rules, should not be severe with students who break school rules—I am alarmed for you at Battle Creek. Teachers are very exact in visiting with denunciation and punishments those students who violate the slight rules, not from any vicious purpose, but heedlessly; or circumstances occur which make it no sin for them to deviate from rules which have been made, and which should not be held with inflexibility if transgressed, and yet the person in fault is treated as if he had grievously sinned. Now I want you to consider, teachers, where you stand, and deal with yourselves and pronounce judgment against yourselves; for you have not only infringed the rules, but you have been so sharp, so severe upon students; and more than this, there is a controversy between you and God. You have not made straight paths for your feet lest the lame be turned out of the way. You have departed from safe paths. I say “teachers”; I do not specify names. I leave that to your own consciences to appropriate. The Lord God of Israel has wrought in your midst again and again. You have had great evidences of the stately steppings of the Most High. But a period of great light, of the wonderful revealings of the Spirit and power of God, is a period of great peril, lest the light shall not be improved. Will you consider Jeremiah 17:5-10; 18:12-15? For you are most surely coming under the rebuke of God. Light has been shining in clear and steady rays upon you. What has this light done for you? Christ, the Chief Shepherd, is looking upon you with displeasure, and is inquiring, “Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock?”—Fundamentals of Christian Education, 222.

Special Testimonies On Education

Chapter 21—To Teachers and Students

SpTEd 182.4

I am alarmed for you at Battle Creek. Teachers are very exact in visiting with denunciation and punishments those students who violate the slight rules, not from any vicious purpose, but heedlessly; or circumstances occur which make it no sin for them to deviate from rules which have been made, and which should not be held with inflexibility if transgressed, and yet the person in fault is treated as if he had grievously sinned. Now I want you to consider, teachers, where you stand, and deal with yourselves and pronounce judgment against yourselves: for you have not only infringed the rules, but you have been so sharp, so severe, upon students; and more than this, there is a controversy between you and God. You have not made straight paths for your feet lest the lame be turned out of the way. You have departed from safe paths. I say “teachers;” I do not specify names. I leave that to your own consciences to appropriate. The Lord God of Israel has wrought in your midst again and again. You have had great evidences of the stately steppings of the Most High. But a period of great light, of the wonderful revealings of the Spirit and power of God, is a period of great peril, lest the light shall not be improved. Will you consider Jeremiah 17:5-10; 18:12-15? for you are most surely coming under the rebuke of God. Light has been shining in clear and steady rays upon you. What has this light done for you? Christ, the Chief Shepherd, is looking upon you with displeasure, and is inquiring, “Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock?” “Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind.”

Spalding and Magan Collection

Exercise Versus Amusement.

SpM 70.4

I am alarmed for you at Battle Creek. Teachers are very exact in visiting with denunciations and punishments those students who violate the slightest rules, not from any vicious purpose, but heedlessly; or circumstances occur which make it no sin for them to deviate from rules which have been made, and which should not be held with inflexibility if transgressed, and yet the person in fault is treated as if he had grievously sinned. Now I want you to consider, teachers, where you stand, and deal with yourselves, and pronounce judgment against yourselves; for you have not only infringed the rules, you have been so sharp, so severe upon students; but more than this, there is a controversy between you and God. You have not made straight paths for your feet lest the lame be turned out of the way. You have departed from safe paths. I say, Teachers—I do not specify names. The Lord God of Israel has wrought in your midst again and again. You have had great evidences of the stately steppings of the Most High. But a period of great light, of the wonderful revealing of the Spirit and power of God is a period of great peril, lest the light shall not be improved. Will you consider Jeremiah 17:5-10; 18:12-15: for you are most surely coming under the rebuke of God. Light has been shining in clear and steady rays upon you. What has this light done for you? Christ, the chief Shepherd, is looking upon you with displeasure, and is inquiring, “Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock?” “Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men; for I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsels of God. Take heed therefore, unto yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God which he hath purchased with his own blood.” Acts 20:26-30. “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 51, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 51, 1893, par. 13

The Lord God of Israel has wrought in your midst again and again. You have had great evidences of the stately steppings of the Most High. But a period of great light, of the wonderful revealings of the spirit and power of God is a period of great peril, lest the light shall not be improved. Will you consider Jeremiah 17:5-10; 18:12, 15? For you are most surely coming under the rebuke of God. Light has been shining in clear and steady rays upon you. What has this light done for you?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 2, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 2, 1894, par. 8

“Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? But My people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit. Be astonished, O ye heavens, at this, and be horribly afraid, be ye very desolate, saith the Lord. For My people have committed two evils: they have forsaken Me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.” [Jeremiah 2:11-13.] “Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, Amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause you to dwell in this place. Trust ye not in lying words, saying, The temple of the Lord, The temple of the Lord, The temple of the Lord are these. For if ye thoroughly amend your ways and your doings; if ye thoroughly execute judgment between a man and his neighbor; if ye oppress not the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, and shed not innocent blood in this place, neither walk after other gods to your hurt; then will I cause you to dwell in this place, in the land that I gave unto your fathers, for ever and ever. Behold ye trust in lying words that cannot profit. Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods that ye know not; and come and stand before me in this house, which is called by My name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations? Is this house, which is called by My name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I have seen it, saith the Lord.” [Jeremiah 7:3-11.] “Thus saith the Lord: Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh: but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green: and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 17:5-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 46, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 46, 1894, par. 6

Let us hear the testimony of God upon this subject: “Thus saith the Lord: Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land, and not inhabited.” [Jeremiah 17:5, 6.]

9LtMs, Ms 46, 1894, par. 8

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” This is the evidence that souls are connected with God. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Verses 7-10.] “But to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my words.” [Isaiah 66:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 13, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 13, 1897, par. 23

“Thus saith the Lord: Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth form the Lord. For he shall be like the heat in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.” [Jeremiah 17:5, 6.] This is the Lord’s representation of the man who turns his face away from God, and chooses to please himself. He has his own way, and is filled with his own doings, but what a valueless heap of chaff and rubbish he will gather to himself. But such are of no profit to God, and therefore are decidedly of no profit to the world.

12LtMs, Ms 13, 1897, par. 24

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Verses 7-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 54, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 54, 1895, par. 30

“Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land, and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. ... O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from thee shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living water.” [Jeremiah 17:5-10, 13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 55, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 55, 1895, par. 31

“Thus saith the Lord: cursed be the man that trusteth in man and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land, and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. ... O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from thee shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living water.” [Jeremiah 17:5-10, 13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 111, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 111, 1898, par. 24

All who hold fast the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end will be saved. “Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusted in man and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. ... Blessed is the man who trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is: for he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green: and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it?” [Jeremiah 17:5, 7-9.]

13LtMs, Ms 111, 1898, par. 25

Then can any one truly say of another, “He is saved”? No; his future life will decide his eternal destiny. If he will walk in obedience to the commandments of the Lord, he will be an overcomer; and Christ says, “To him that overcometh, will I grant to sit with me in my throne; even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father on his throne.” [Revelation 3:21.] Let no one then say that which is not strictly true. We want all our words to be truth and righteousness. “I the Lord search the heart: I try the reins: even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. ... Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed: save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.” [Jeremiah 17:10, 14.]

Christian Education

Chapter 13—Books in Our Schools

CE 104.1

“Thus saith the Lord; cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.... O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living waters. Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.” [Jeremiah 17:5-8, 13, 14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 142, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 142, 1902, par. 10

The statement has been made that wherever there are three physicians, there are two atheists. But it is God’s purpose that through the power of His truth, our physicians shall make constant progress heavenward. “Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:5-8.]

17LtMs, Lt 142, 1902, par. 12

“I the Lord search the heart,” He declares, “I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways and according to the fruit of his doings. As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool. A glorious high throne from the beginning is the place of our sanctuary. O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living waters. Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for thou art my praise.” “O Lord, my strength and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction.” [Jeremiah 17:10-14; 16:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 41, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 41, 1898, par. 1

“Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inherit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land, and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:5-8.]

13LtMs, Lt 41, 1898, par. 6

There has been a strong resistance to the warnings and reproofs sent by God, among some who profess to believe the truth. Tonight my spirit is stirred within me, and at eleven o’clock I dress and take my pen to write the words given me for A. R. Henry. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doing. As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not, so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool. A glorious high throne from the beginning is the place of our sanctuary. O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living waters.” [Jeremiah 17:9-13.]

13LtMs, Lt 41, 1898, par. 7

Oh, that all who have made flesh their arm and man their trust would even now in this their day realize their position, and cry to God in sincerity, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for thou art my praise.” [Verse 14.] Will not the people turn to their God?

13LtMs, Lt 41, 1898, par. 8

“Behold, they say unto me, Where is the word of the Lord? Let it come now.” [Verse 15.] Taunts such as these have always been made, and will continue to be made. Those who make them are inspired by the same spirit that led the priests to taunt Christ as He hung upon the cross, saying, “He saved others, himself He cannot save. If he be the king of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now if He will have him; for he said, I am the Son of God.” [Matthew 27:42, 43.] There hung the world’s Redeemer in His dying agony, put to open shame by His own people. What power was working on the minds of these teachers and leaders?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 346, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, par. 5

“Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh.” This is a representation of the man who does not humble his heart before the Lord and give up his will to the will of God. This man has lost his discernment and cannot be trusted. And because he has rejected the warnings of God, he has greatly hindered the work of the Lord. He shall “inhabit the parched places of the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.” [Jeremiah 17:5, 6.]

22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, par. 6

Another class is represented in the next words of the prophet: “Blessed is the man who trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh; but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Verses 7, 8.]

22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, par. 8

“Behold, they say unto me, Where is the word of the Lord? let it come now. As for me, I have not hastened from being a pastor to follow Thee; neither have I desired the woeful day; Thou knowest; that which came out of my lips was right before Thee. Be not a terror unto me: Thou art my hope in the day of evil. Let them be confounded that persecute me, and let me not be confounded: let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed; bring upon them the days of evil, and destroy them with double destruction.” [Verses 13-18.]

The Ministry of Healing

Rejoicing

MH 286.3

“Let thine heart keep My commandments:
For length of days, and long life,
And peace, shall they add to thee.”
“Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely,
And thy foot shall not stumble.
When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid:
Yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.
Be not afraid of sudden fear,
Neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.
For the Lord shall be thy confidence,
And shall keep thy foot from being taken.” Jeremiah 17:7; Psalm 92:12-14; 92:14, Leeser; Proverbs 3:1, 2, 23-26.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 53, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 53, 1894, par. 41

God never designed that one man’s mind and judgment should have a controlling power over His heavenly appointed agencies, or over any class or organization. Again and again this matter has been repeated. But it is Satan’s object to place finite men where God should be. “Blessed is the man who trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and which spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green, and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:7, 8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 73, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 73, 1897, par. 37

Please read Isaiah 58. Great light is given in this chapter. The earnest prayer from the humble, contrite heart will be heard and answered. “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh; but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:7, 8.] This we have a right to expect if we co-operate with God by consecrating our selves, soul, body, and spirit, to His keeping. There will then be no cheap experience. No foolish talking or evil speaking will be heard. The tongue will utter right things.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 95, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 95, 1902, par. 4

“Blessed is the man who trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:7, 8.]

Lift Him Up

Redeeming the Time, December 6

LHU 354.6

“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom.” “He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit” (Proverbs 3:13; Jeremiah 17:8) (The Great Controversy, 601, 602).

The Great Controversy

Chapter 37—The Scriptures a Safeguard

GC 602.3

“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom.” “He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” Proverbs 3:13; Jeremiah 17:8.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 37—The Scriptures a Safeguard

GC88 602.3

“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom.” “He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Proverbs 3:13; Jeremiah 17:8.]

From Here to Forever

Results of Neglect of Prayer and Bible Study

HF 366.3

“He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” Jeremiah 17:8.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Results of Neglect of Prayer and Bible Study

GrH_c 33.5

“He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” Jeremiah 17:8.

Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene

Chapter 13—Consulting Spiritualist Physicians

CTBH 113.1

It is not safe to trust to physicians who have not the fear of God before them. Without the influence of divine grace, the hearts of men are “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” [Jeremiah 17:9.] Self-aggrandizement is their aim. Under cover of the medical profession, what iniquities have been practiced, what delusions supported! The physician may claim to possess great wisdom and marvelous skill, while at the same time his character is abandoned, and his practice contrary to the laws of health. The Lord our God assures us that he is waiting to be gracious; he invites us to call upon him in the day of trouble. Furthermore, the teaching of these physicians is continually leading away from the principles God has given us in regard to health, especially on the diet question. They say we are not living as we ought, and prescribe changes that are contrary to the light God has sent. Brethren, how can the Lord let his blessing rest upon us when we are going right upon the enemy’s ground?

With God at Dawn

The Heart Is Deceitful, May 4

WGD 126.1

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Jeremiah 17:9.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 4, 1865

1LtMs, Lt 4, 1865, par. 12

Edson, in youth or early years we can trace the characteristics of riper years. The rank and noisome weeds of falsehood and deceit, which choke the precious plants of candor and truth, are sown in the springtime of youth. They flourish in a soil too friendly to their growth, even the human unrenewed heart which God’s Word declares to be “deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.” [Jeremiah 17:9.] After indulging in deception or concealing things from your parents, prevarication comes next; which is a mean, cowardly sort of lying. The path of truth is always safe, straight, and easy; that of deceit has so many windings and turnings that one deviation from uprightness and candor may lead to a thousand deceptions which were not anticipated at the first. A love for candor and truth is respected and loved by everyone not excepting those who place no estimate upon it for its own sake. Concealment, my dear boy, is the child of transgression.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 33, 1879

3LtMs, Lt 33, 1879, par. 12

If you do not examine yourself searchingly in the light reflected from the cross of Christ revealed in His Word, self-love will prompt you to have a much better opinion of yourself than is either just, true, or safe. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9. “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool.” Proverbs 28:26. And yet we are naturally inclined to this trust in the goodness of our desperately wicked hearts.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12a, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12a, 1893, par. 13

Louis Christie, I have no light, no permission to answer your questions. I have given you the light which I was commissioned to give you, and you say it is not truth. I have no more to say. If you will not receive that which God has given you, you would not receive further light from the same source. It is not more evidence that you need, but more humility of heart. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it?” [Jeremiah 17:9.] I feel sincerely desirous that you shall make thorough work for eternity. When the Spirit of God reveals your heart to you, you will not complain that you have been dealt with in severity, as did the man who went and hid his lord’s money in the earth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12b, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12b, 1893, par. 1

I have no light, no permission to answer all your questions. I have given you the light which I was commissioned to give you. You say, it is not truth. I have no more to say. If you will not receive that which God has given you, you would treat any thing I may say in the same light. It is not more evidence that you need but a humble heart. “The heart is deceitful above all things, desperately wicked: who can know it?” [Jeremiah 17:9.] I feel sincerely in earnest that you shall make thorough work for eternity. But when the Spirit of God reveals to you yourself, you will not complain of being dealt severely with, like the man who laid his one talent in the earth. You may say, “I want to work in the cause, I love the truth.” Your course of action will testify how much you love the truth and the cause. “Ye are a spectacle to the world, to angels and to men.” [1 Corinthians 4:9.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 38, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 38, 1897, par. 13

Jesus did not try further to make Peter believe that He knew what course he would pursue. But He knew that “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” [Jeremiah 17:9.] At this time Peter should have been examining himself. How distrustful of self should he have been! But he refused to admit that the picture presented before him correct, and in the place of inviting research, although the Holy Spirit of God had revealed to him the character he would manifest, under test and trial, he refused to accept it. If he had humbled his soul before God, in the place of denying the searching and reading of his inmost soul, he would have said with the prophet, “Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips.” [Isaiah 6:5.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 13—Two Worshipers

COL 159.1

No man can of himself understand his errors. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” Jeremiah 17:9. The lips may express a poverty of soul that the heart does not acknowledge. While speaking to God of poverty of spirit, the heart may be swelling with the conceit of its own superior humility and exalted righteousness. In one way only can a true knowledge of self be obtained. We must behold Christ. It is ignorance of Him that makes men so uplifted in their own righteousness. When we contemplate His purity and excellence, we shall see our own weakness and poverty and defects as they really are. We shall see ourselves lost and hopeless, clad in garments of self-righteousness, like every other sinner. We shall see that if we are ever saved, it will not be through our own goodness, but through God’s infinite grace.

Counsels on Health

Unwise Confidence

CH 456.2

It is not safe to trust to physicians who have not the fear of God before them. Without the influence of divine grace, the hearts of men are “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9. Self-aggrandizement is their aim. Under cover of the medical profession, what iniquities have been practiced, what delusions supported! The physician may claim to possess great wisdom and marvelous skill, while at the same time his character is abandoned, and his practice contrary to the laws of health. The Lord our God assures us that He is waiting to be gracious; He invites us to call upon Him in the day of trouble.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Love Among Brethren

GW92 446.2

Self-love will prompt to a much better opinion of self than the word of God will warrant; for “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” [Jeremiah 17:9.] God’s word is the standard that we must all reach. It is unsafe to consult feeling or to trust to our own heart; the wise man declares, “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool.” [Proverbs 28:26.]

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

MR No. 1367—Counsel Against Faultfinding, Ridiculing, Sneering at Women; Examine Yourself First

19MR 59.1

If you do not examine yourself searchingly in the light reflected from the cross of Christ revealed in His Word, self-love will prompt you to have a much better opinion of yourself than is either just, true, or safe. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). “He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool” (Proverbs 28:26). And yet we are naturally inclined to this trust in the goodness of our desperately wicked hearts.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1

Chapter 30—Selfishness and Self-centeredness

1MCP 273.5

Dangers in Self-flattery—It is difficult for us to understand ourselves, to have a correct knowledge of our own characters. The Word of God is plain, but often there is an error in applying it to one’s self. There is liability to self-deception and to think its warnings and reproofs do not mean me. “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9). Self-flattery may be construed into Christian emotion and zeal. Self-love and confidence may give us assurance that we are right when we are far from meeting the requirements of God’s Word.—Testimonies for the Church 5:332 (1885).

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 67—Ancient and Modern Sorcery

PP 688.2

The Lord presented before Israel the results of holding communion with evil spirits, in the abominations of the Canaanites: they were without natural affection, idolaters, adulterers, murderers, and abominable by every corrupt thought and revolting practice. Men do not know their own hearts; for “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9. But God understands the tendencies of the depraved nature of man. Then, as now, Satan was watching to bring about conditions favorable to rebellion, that the people of Israel might make themselves as abhorrent to God as were the Canaanites. The adversary of souls is ever on the alert to open channels for the unrestrained flow of evil in us; for he desires that we may be ruined, and be condemned before God.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Channels of Satan’s Power

2TT 53.3

It is not safe to trust to physicians who have not the fear of God before them. Without the influence of divine grace the hearts of men are “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9. Self-aggrandizement is their aim. Under the cover of the medical profession what iniquities have been concealed, what delusions supported! The physician may claim to possess great wisdom and marvelous skill, when his character is abandoned and his practice contrary to the laws of life. The Lord our God assures us that He is waiting to be gracious; He invites us to call upon Him in the day of trouble. How can we turn from Him to trust in an arm of flesh?

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

The Laodicean Church

1TT 328.1

It is difficult for those who feel secure in their attainments, and who believe themselves to be rich in spiritual knowledge, to receive the message which declares that they are deceived and in need of every spiritual grace. The unsanctified heart is “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9. I was shown that many are flattering themselves that they are good Christians, who have not a ray of light from Jesus. They have not a living experience for themselves in the divine life. They need a deep and thorough work of self-abasement before God before they will feel their true need of earnest, persevering effort to secure the precious graces of the Spirit.

The Review and Herald

December 2, 1884

RH December 2, 1884, par. 7

Eld. Daniels spoke to the people Sabbath forenoon from Jeremiah 17:9, 10: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” His discourse made a good impression on the minds of all present; and in the testimonies borne by our brethren and sisters Sunday forenoon, references were made to his discourse, showing that many hearts were deeply impressed by it, and that they meant to be doers of the word and not hearers only.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 18, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 18, 1891, par. 16

This lesson had a powerful influence on the mind of David. As he was about to die, he charged his son Solomon, saying, “Thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve Him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek Him, He will be found of thee; but if thou forsake Him, He will cast thee off forever.” [1 Chronicles 28:9.] “The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth.” [2 Chronicles 16:9.] “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 17:9, 10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 30, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 30, 1895, par. 34

The question is, Shall we obey God or practice robbery against Him? Jeremiah says, “Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee: thou showest loving kindness unto thousands, and recompenseth the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them. The Great, the Mighty God, the Lord of hosts, is His name. Great in counsel, and might in work: for thine eyes are open unto all the ways of the sons of men, to give every one to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 32:17-19.] “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked, who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 17:9, 10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 7, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 7, 1897, par. 16

The managers of the Pacific Press need to humble their hearts before God. They need to walk in all humility. The Lord will overturn until there is a reformation in our institutions. The men who ought to be filled with faith in this most sacred truth ever presented to mortals, the men who handle sacred trusts, are not all true watchmen. The Holy Spirit has often been in your midst, but these men, whose hearts should have been open to receive the heavenly messengers, were closed to its entreaties. They have ridiculed, mocked, and derided God’s servants who have borne to them the message of mercy from heaven. Some have trifled with the precious things of God which are light and truth and grace. Had these men no fear that the sin of blasphemy might be committed by them? They would certainly fear were they not blinded by the enemy. Poor foolish, deluded souls. They know not the things that make for their peace. God has said, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 17:9, 10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 18, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 18, 1895, par. 19

The Lord has declared that He will never leave thee nor forsake thee. When He revealed His character to Moses, He “passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty.” [Exodus 34:6, 7.] “His eyes behold, his eyelids try the children of men.” [Psalm 11:4.] “The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.” [1 Samuel 2:3.] “I the Lord search the hearts, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 17:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 160, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 160, 1898, par. 5

“His eyes behold; his eyelids try the children of men.” [Psalm 11:4.] The Lord is a God of knowledge; by Him actions are weighed. “I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, to give to every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 17:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 160a, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 6

The Lord is a God of knowledge; by Him actions are weighed. “His eyes behold, his eyelids try the children of men.” [Psalm 11:4.] “I the Lord search the heart,” He says, “I try the reins, to give to every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Jeremiah 17:10.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Heart Searcher, May 24

JNN 155.1

“I, the LORD, search the heart,
I test the mind,
Even to give every man according to his ways,
According to the fruit of his doings.”
—Jeremiah 17:10

Education

Honest Business Dealings

Ed 143.5

“He that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.” Jeremiah 17:11.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 1—Why was Sin Permitted?

PP 34.2

The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By Him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him.” Colossians 1:16. Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the “express image of His person,” “the brightness of His glory,” “upholding all things by the word of His power,” holds supremacy over them all. Hebrews 1:3. “A glorious high throne from the beginning,” was the place of His sanctuary (Jeremiah 17:12); “a scepter of righteousness,” the scepter of His kingdom. Hebrews 1:8. “Honor and majesty are before Him: strength and beauty are in His sanctuary.” Psalm 96:6. Mercy and truth go before His face. Psalm 89:14.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 256, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 256, 1906, par. 9

“The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. ‘By Him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers. All things were created by Him, and for Him.’ [Colossians 1:16.] Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence, and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the ‘express image of His person,’ ‘the brightness of His glory,’ ‘upholding all things by the word of His power,’ holds supremacy over them all. [Hebrews 1:3.] ‘A glorious high throne from the beginning,’ was the place of His sanctuary; ‘a scepter of righteousness,’ the scepter of His kingdom. [Jeremiah 17:12; Hebrews 1:8.] ‘Honor and majesty are before Him. Strength and beauty are in His sanctuary.’ [Psalm 96:6.] Mercy and truth go before His face. ...

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Co-Worker, March 17

JNN 85.4

The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. “By Him were all things created, ... whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him” (Colossians 1:16). Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the “express image of His person,” “the brightness of His glory,” “upholding all things by the word of His power,” holds supremacy over them all (Hebrews 1:3). “A glorious high throne from the beginning,” was the place of His sanctuary (Jeremiah 17:12); “a scepter of righteousness,” the scepter of His kingdom (Hebrews 1:8). “Honor and majesty are before Him: strength and beauty are in His sanctuary” (Psalm 96:6).—Patriarchs and Prophets, 33, 34.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Head Over All, June 26

JNN 189.1

Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for You are my praise.—Jeremiah 17:14

The Great Controversy

Chapter 1—The Destruction of Jerusalem

GC 18.2

The history of more than a thousand years of God’s special favor and guardian care, manifested to the chosen people, was open to the eye of Jesus. There was Mount Moriah, where the son of promise, an unresisting victim, had been bound to the altar—emblem of the offering of the Son of God. There the covenant of blessing, the glorious Messianic promise, had been confirmed to the father of the faithful. Genesis 22:9, 16-18. There the flames of the sacrifice ascending to heaven from the threshing floor of Ornan had turned aside the sword of the destroying angel (1 Chronicles 21)—fitting symbol of the Saviour’s sacrifice and mediation for guilty men. Jerusalem had been honored of God above all the earth. The Lord had “chosen Zion,” He had “desired it for His habitation.” Psalm 132:13. There, for ages, holy prophets had uttered their messages of warning. There priests had waved their censers, and the cloud of incense, with the prayers of the worshipers, had ascended before God. There daily the blood of slain lambs had been offered, pointing forward to the Lamb of God. There Jehovah had revealed His presence in the cloud of glory above the mercy seat. There rested the base of that mystic ladder connecting earth with heaven (Genesis 28:12; John 1:51)—that ladder upon which angels of God descended and ascended, and which opened to the world the way into the holiest of all. Had Israel as a nation preserved her allegiance to Heaven, Jerusalem would have stood forever, the elect of God. Jeremiah 17:21-25. But the history of that favored people was a record of backsliding and rebellion. They had resisted Heaven’s grace, abused their privileges, and slighted their opportunities.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 1—Destruction of Jerusalem

GC88 18.2

The history of more than a thousand years of God’s special favor and guardian care, manifested to the chosen people, was open to the eye of Jesus. There was Mount Moriah, where the son of promise, an unresisting victim, had been bound to the altar,—emblem of the offering of the Son of God. [Genesis 22:9.] There, the covenant of blessing, the glorious Messianic promise, had been confirmed to the father of the faithful. [Genesis 22:16-18.] There the flames of the sacrifice ascending to heaven from the threshing-floor of Ornan had turned aside the sword of the destroying angel [1 Chronicles 21.]—fitting symbol of the Saviour’s sacrifice and mediation for guilty men. Jerusalem had been honored of God above all the earth. The Lord had “chosen Zion,” he had “desired it for his habitation.” [Psalm 132:13.] There, for ages, holy prophets had uttered their messages of warning. There, priests had waved their censers, and the cloud of incense, with the prayers of the worshipers, had ascended before God. There daily the blood of slain lambs had been offered, pointing forward to the Lamb of God. There, Jehovah had revealed his presence in the cloud of glory above the mercy-seat. There rested the base of that mystic ladder connecting earth with Heaven, [Genesis 28:12; John 1:51.]—that ladder upon which angels of God descended and ascended, and which opened to the world the way into the holiest of all. Had Israel as a nation preserved her allegiance to Heaven, Jerusalem would have stood forever, the elect of God. [Jeremiah 17:21-25.] But the history of that favored people was a record of backsliding and rebellion. They had resisted Heaven’s grace, abused their privileges, and slighted their opportunities.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 34—Jeremiah

PK 411.2

On one occasion, by command of the Lord, the prophet took his position at one of the principal entrances to the city and there urged the importance of keeping holy the Sabbath day. The inhabitants of Jerusalem were in danger of losing sight of the sanctity of the Sabbath, and they were solemnly warned against following their secular pursuits on that day. A blessing was promised on condition of obedience. “If ye diligently hearken unto Me,” the Lord declared, and “hallow the Sabbath day, to do no work therein; then shall there enter into the gates of this city kings and princes sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, they, and their princes, the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem: and this city shall remain forever.” Jeremiah 17:24, 25.

From Splendor to Shadow

A True Prophet Always “Builds”

SS 214.3

On one occasion, at one of the principal entrances to the city the prophet urged the importance of keeping holy the Sabbath day: “If ye diligently hearken unto Me, saith the Lord, to bring in no burden through the gates of this city on the Sabbath day, but hallow the Sabbath day, to do no work therein; then shall there enter into the gates of this city kings and princes sitting upon the throne of David, ... and this city shall remain for ever.” Jeremiah 17:24, 25. If the admonitions to obey the God of their fathers and to hallow His Sabbath were not heeded, the city and its palaces would be utterly destroyed by fire. Only by the most decided measures could a change for the better be brought about; therefore the prophet labored most earnestly for the impenitent. “O Jerusalem, wash thine heart from wickedness, that thou mayest be saved.” Jeremiah 4:14.