EGW WritingsMatthew 11
Ellen G. White · Page 7 of 8
Read Matthew 11 in the BibleMatthew 11:29-30
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 191, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 191, 1901, par. 2
The brethren have placed you in connection with our institutions, supposing you to be adapted to the work you were to do; but those with whom you have worked have come to understand that although you have an outside gloss, you have in many ways a lack of true, genuine experience. You have used your capabilities to exalt yourself. You need an understanding of self—the understanding all need who work for the Lord. The very first step you need to take is to bring your mind to a proper balance. You are to seek for, hunger for, Christian attainments. The invitation has been given, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] You are to come to Christ as one who feels that he must learn. You need to realize that learning of Him is necessary to the perfection of Christian character.16LtMs, Lt 191, 1901, par. 3
Christ says: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Verses 29, 30.] Precious is the experience of finding rest. He who does not, day by day, learn lessons from Christ, cannot appreciate the suggestions of the Spirit of God. But he who learns daily of Jesus, making use of every means of grace, grows in the knowledge of God. Under the influence of the Holy Spirit, the peace and comfort of hope fill his heart. He increases in faith and trust. His development in Christlikeness is apparent to all.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 239, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 239, 1902, par. 2
If those who claim to be in service to Christ will remember to do to others as they wish others to do to them, they would be cultivating personal graces, knowing they must practice Christian politeness one to another if they are to become fitted to become members of the royal family in the kingdom of God. All who are learning of Christ are required to wear His yoke of restraint. And He has taught us our duty: “Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Yes, thank God, rest in a living experience! As you practice His teachings, you know by your practice the lessons of Christ are true, that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Jealousies and evil surmisings are considered unprofitable guests to entertain. Perpetual dissension may be encouraged by taking notice of little things in others and feeding distrust, but it will not bring peace to an individual soul.17LtMs, Ms 239, 1902, par. 5
All of us are to learn of Christ, to wear His yoke gracefully. “Learn of me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy,” to the submissive neck, “and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Christ is the great Revealer of thoughts and intellect. He is sensitive of all that affects His believing children. One thing was revealed to Him in clearest light, and which He communicated with authority and power—that they must hear and understand that in the future kingdom none were to be admitted who practiced fraud and selfishness in this life. [Those whose] course of action was to take advantage of circumstances to benefit themselves [or] to disadvantage another, [exhibiting] pretentious piety while their heart was impure, would be denied a place. All those who would humble their hearts before God, repent and confess their sins, believing in Christ as their Redeemer, would become more than conquerors through Him that hath loved them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 187, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 187, 1903, par. 16
O God, the living and true God, teach me Thy way, Thy will in such simplicity that I can bear it. Help me to walk humbly with Thee. Give me power to bear Thy yoke; help me to learn of Thee to become meek and lowly. Thou hast invited every soul, “Take My yoke upon thee, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] In learning of the great Teacher His meekness and lowliness, they will find rest.18LtMs, Ms 187, 1903, par. 20
I am worried and perplexed, because many professing godliness are not following the will and way of Christ. My soul is in distress because I cannot see that they heed the admonitions and the warnings God has given. Seemingly they are unconscious of their true state. Today Christ is offering His grace to them if they will co-operate with Him, to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, lest they shall lose the opportunities granted them. They are ever to remember that it is God which worketh in them, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Reason, conscience, memory must be brought under the control of Christ. They are to put on the gospel armor and arouse every slumbering energy to resist Satan’s deceptions. We cannot afford to be on the losing side; for we are not warring against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Although tempted and tried, we are to exercise patience, refusing by hasty speech to gratify the enemy. We are to exercise full faith in God. Humanity is to be sanctified, that in the place of revealing anger, we may reveal the meekness and lowliness of Christ. The Saviour’s invitation is, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Verses 29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 118, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 118, 1903, par. 5
Is a leader in any branch of God’s work—when his plans and projects are interfered with—led to speak threatening words, declaring that if such and such a thing takes place, he will appeal to the civil law? If so, let his associates take knowledge of him that he is not walking in the footsteps of the meek and lowly Jesus. He has not complied with the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]18LtMs, Ms 118, 1903, par. 7
There is no room for boasting in the life of the one who wears Christ’s yoke and heeds the invitation, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] It is an evidence of great weakness for a man to boast of his cunning and his power to deceive, as if this were something worthy of praise. And it is also an evidence of weakness for a man to boast of his own abilities. He who boasts thus shows that he is a stranger to the blessed experience gained by wearing Christ’s yoke. Self is brought into the words and acts, as if it were a precious treasure. But in the end the man will find that he has placed himself under the dictation of a cruel tyrant.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 377, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, par. 13
Let each one now inquire, How can I best live the truth as it is in Jesus. Heed His words, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Seek in some humble way to do service for the Saviour by helping others to obtain a clearer view of Him. Not all can make large offerings. Not all can do great works, magnificent deeds; but all can learn of Him His meekness and lowliness. All can control the desire to be first and can be filled with apostolic zeal. The meekness and lowliness of Christ, revealed in your life, will bring you into places where you can do service for Christ. The unselfish act, the warmth of a kindly spirit will do its work, resting agitated souls and bringing assurance and peace and hope.19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, par. 23
It is the weaving into the web of so many figures that spoils the pattern. Have we not had enough of this? The Lord calls for a proclamation of the truth in new territory. This has been the burden of my message for the last twenty years. The Lord calls for greater simplicity; for people are woefully ignorant. Saith the great Teacher, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 32, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, par. 12
Those who have risen with Christ to walk in newness of life are the elect of God. They are holy unto the Lord and are acknowledged by Him as His beloved. As such, they are under solemn covenant to distinguish themselves by showing humility of mind. They are to clothe themselves in garments of righteousness. They are separate from the world, from its spirit, its practices; and they are to reveal that they are learning of Him who says, “I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] If they realize that they have died with Christ, if they keep their baptismal vow, the world will have no power to draw them aside to deny Christ. If they live the life of Christ in this world, they are partakers of the divine nature. Then, when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, they also will appear with Him in glory.22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, par. 14
My brethren and sisters, will you not heed this appeal? As it is read to the members of the several churches by the one who shall stand in my stead, because I cannot be with you personally, let the believers respond. Bow before God, and make confession of your backsliding. In humility accept the words of Christ, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 48, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 48, 1891, par. 14
Now, it is not the province of any man to pronounce judgment, to judge or condemn any portion of the Word of God. When he does this, Satan will create an atmosphere for him to breathe which will dwarf spiritual growth, and his wisdom in the sight of God will be pronounced foolishness. He feels so very wise that he dares to dissect God’s Word. When he knows more, he will feel that he has everything to learn. And his very first lesson is to become teachable. “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.]7LtMs, Ms 48, 1891, par. 54
Now let us take Christ’s yoke upon us, and learn of him. He says his yoke is easy, and I believe it. He says the burden is light, and I believe that, too. [Matthew 11:30.] When you are wearing Christ’s yoke, all your complaining and dissension will cease. When Christ’s disciples fell into controversy by the way, he asked them. “What was is that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. ... And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and I whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.” [Mark 9:33-37.] Now let us be like children before God. Let us be teachable, willing to learn, and then the Spirit of God will cement our hearts together, and we shall be one in Christ Jesus. Then the Father will love us, even as he loves his Son. Let this thought fill the soul with thankfulness, and go on your way to Zion, making melody in your hearts to God. You are called out of darkness to show forth his marvelous light. Go forward, rejoicing in the righteousness of Christ.Counsels for the Church
Chapter 64—Christ Our Great High Priest
CCh 348.4
Jesus pleads in their behalf His wounded hands, His bruised body; and He declares to all who would follow Him: “My grace is sufficient for thee.” 2 Corinthians 12:9. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
MR No. 1091—Preach God’s Word, Not Fanciful, Imaginary Doctrines
14MR 62.1
Let men humble their hearts before the Lord. Let teachers heed the word of the greatest Teacher the world has ever known: “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and my burden is light” [Matthew 11:29, 30].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 101, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, par. 4
“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.” [James 3:13.] Let him reveal his wisdom by showing that he has learned of the great Teacher. “Take my yoke upon you,” Christ says, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 170, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 170, 1901, par. 4
Christ says, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] By meekness the elders obtained a good report and were renowned in their generation. The meekness of the angels who minister to us is a marked evidence of their heavenly origin. They represent God Himself, who is full of goodness, mercy, and love, ever ready to encourage those who are striving to advance His work in the world. God’s people must not misrepresent the angelic ministration by hasty, overbearing movements.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 133, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 133, 1901, par. 19
In the name of the Lord I ask you to awaken to your responsibilities and take up your work in the right way, with honest, earnest endeavor. Use your talents for good and not for evil. Christ invites you, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] All the Lord asks is a faithful discharge of the duties revealed in His holy Word. From the lowliest to those occupying the highest positions, each one is required to fill his appointed place. The interest the Lord expects is proportionate to the capital entrusted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 142, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 142, 1901, par. 9
Principal and teachers should remember that they are under the tuition of a divine Teacher, the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. Receiving instruction from Him, they will constantly develop. They are to learn in the school of Christ His meekness and lowliness. “Learn of me,” He says; “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 105, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 105, 1901, par. 2
There is much work to be done. But this work must be done understandingly. Some keep silent when they ought to speak. Others, when they ought to keep silent, speak excitedly and hastily. When we speak, we should keep the Christian life in view, remembering Christ’s invitation, “Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Our words should testify that we are partakers with Christ in His sufferings, that we are living in partnership with Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 183, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, par. 7
God calls for that which many refuse to give him — the highest, holiest service. He desires us to acknowledge our relationship to him, to realize that we are his. Link your life with his. Live out the high principles which he came to this earth to reveal. Accept the invitation, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] When you accept this gracious invitation, you are sustained by one who has an inexhaustible supply of grace.16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, par. 10
Christ is our example. “Learn of me,” he says. [Matthew 11:29.] There are stepping stones on which we may safely plant our feet in following him. But those who enter the service of the world are not following as he leads the way. It is impossible to please God and gain the friendship of the world at the same time. Let us not bind ourselves to the world with the cords of ambition. An ambition to serve God is wholly necessary; but an ambition fed by worldly ideas will bring failure after failure. Christ has never directed us to go to the world for wisdom and success. In him we live and more and have our being, and to him we are to go for help.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 139, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 139, 1902, par. 4
In order to be a co-laborer with Christ, man must put away his supposed wisdom. Then he will be humble enough to wear Christ’s yoke and to receive His Spirit, the gift that brings to the soul rest and peace. Christ’s invitation is, “‘Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.’ [Matthew 11:29, 30.] In learning the lessons I teach, in cherishing the grace of patience and forbearance, in striving to control the thoughts and words, in revealing Christlike love for one another, you will learn to be meek and lowly, and you will find the peace and rest that is more precious than gold.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 162, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 162, 1902, par. 33
After specifying their good works, Christ declares: “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent.” [Verses 4, 5.] Something more than the mere admission of wrong is required. Genuine repentance must be manifested, and this will be shown when the proud in heart take upon themselves Christ’s yoke and heed His invitation, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 175, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 175, 1902, par. 16
Pray, pray, and believe! Live your prayers. Respond to Christ’s invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] A cloud is hanging over our ministers. They need the light of heaven, that they may have clear discernment. Self must die, and Christ must live in us. Then we shall be taught of God to love one another. If this pulling apart continues, we shall be as weak as water.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 58, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 58, 1902, par. 12
Is it not time that you accepted the invitation, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] You will find, when you are yoked up with Christ, that He carries the weight of the burden. And in learning of Christ, in wearing His yoke, you will become meek and lowly in heart, and you will learn by experience that which the world cannot explain—that rest is found in service. With joy you will bear the testimony, “His yoke is easy, and his burden is light.”Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1399—Wake Up, and Live for Christ; Forgive, and Love One Another; Work Unitedly
19MR 237.2
My brethren and sisters, will you not heed this appeal? As it is read to the members of the several churches by the one who shall stand in my stead, because I cannot be with you personally, let the believers respond. Bow before God, and make confession of your backsliding. In humility accept the words of Christ, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me” [Matthew 16:24]. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” [Matthew 11:29, 30].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 102, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 102, 1902, par. 9
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls, For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] What makes the burden light? Looking to Jesus, beholding His character of spotless purity, and by beholding becoming changed. Self—the old, disobedient nature—dies, and Christ lives in the heart. The man is born again with a new nature. The newborn child of God begins to have some conception of what God is. To all intents and purposes truth is truth to him. He has caught a glimpse of Christ’s glory. A keen sense of his accountability to God quenches the unholy ambition that keeps upon the soul a galling yoke of guilt. The light into which he enters is softened and subdued, tempered to suit his condition. By daily beholding Jesus and striving to practice His virtues, his spiritual perceptions grow clearer and stronger.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 67, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 67, 1902, par. 46
It is not enough for those who have been connected with the office to overcome their hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. They must cultivate the traits that will enable them to do acceptable service. It is not enough for them to put off the old man. They must put on the new man. It is not enough for them to lay aside the things that have hindered them from doing God’s work. More than this is required. Righteous principles must become a part of the nature. The law of God must be written on the heart. Let every soul now arise and bear responsibilities. Cease to do evil, and learn to do well. “Learn of me,” the great Teacher says; “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Put on the new man, created by the power of God. Cherish the new, ennobling principles of unselfishness. Receive the regenerating grace which enables the receiver to reveal in spirit, in words, in actions, the sanctification that the truth imparts. This is the holiness that Christ requires.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 197, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 197, 1902, par. 13
The Lord chooses men to do His work, and He keeps them in His service as called and chosen until they begin to feel a sense of self-importance and do not lean their whole weight upon the wisdom of the Master-worker. Then He leaves them to walk alone; for Christ will not glorify man. His name is to receive all the glory. When a human being is called by God to His service, his work is set before him, and great responsibilities are laid on him. These responsibilities he can bear if he learns daily to wear the yoke of Christ gracefully. “Learn of Me,” said the One who made all things; “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 208, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 208, 1902, par. 29
What is the real strength of a church? Not its members; not those who are supposed to have knowledge and experience. A cultured intellect, unsanctified, is as nothingness. Why should not the truth prevail in Nashville? Shall the truth be powerless because unsanctified hearts are seeking for the supremacy? because unconsecrated tongues have given false representations? God calls for workers who will wear Christ’s yoke. “Take My yoke upon you,” the Saviour says, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 123, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 123, 1902, par. 9
It is Christ’s purpose to enlighten our understanding, that we may know “what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power” to all who deny self, and, taking up the cross, follow in the footsteps of Jesus. [Ephesians 1:18, 19.] Words cannot express the blessedness of following His guidance. He pledges Himself to work with those who strive to represent Him in thought, word, and deed. He gives them assurances to encourage them when they are cast down. He speaks words that will uplift them, but He never designs to exalt them in their own estimation. He gives them the earnest of His Spirit, recognizing their weakness in wearing His yoke. “Learn of me” He says, “and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Holiness of heart and works and spirit is obtained through a belief of the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 138, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 138, 1902, par. 3
Those who are in any way connected with the church of God must be humble. All are invited to come to Christ in their great need and to take His yoke upon them. “Learn of Me,” says Christ; “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 130, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 130, 1902, par. 25
Sow the seeds of truth wherever you have opportunity. In establishing the work in new places, economize in every possible way. Gather up the fragments, let nothing be lost. The work of soul-saving must be carried on in the way that Christ has marked out. He declares, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] Only by obeying this word can we be His disciples. We are striving for a kingdom and a crown. We shall obtain both by wearing Christ’s yoke and learning of Him. “Follow my example,” He says. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 47, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 47, 1902, par. 43
“Learn of Me,” said the greatest Teacher that the world has ever known. “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] It is not enough for us to read the Word of God. The Scriptures are given for our instruction, and we are to search them carefully and diligently. We are to study the Word of God, comparing one portion with another. Scripture is the key that unlocks Scripture. As we read and pray and study, there will be beside us a divine Teacher, the Holy Spirit, enlightening our understanding, that we may comprehend the great truths of God’s Word.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 215, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 215, 1902, par. 13
Speak guardedly. When your words are weighted with the Holy Spirit, when you stand where you should as a man who is proclaiming the sacred truths of the Word of God, your unsuspected weaknesses of character will not be developed as something worthy of imitation. If you keep humble before God, self will not appear. It will be unmistakably seen that Christ is abiding in the heart, sanctifying the life. Show by your careful, holy profession that you are receiving into your soul the water of life, to send it forth to others in sweet, living currents. The religion of Calvary and the gospel is a triumphant argument to the transforming power of the grace of Christ. Unless your spirit is decidedly changed, your course will greatly detract from your influence. God does not want the ways and words of A. T. Jones to be woven into your discourses. You must come to the feet of Jesus. “Learn of Me,” says the divine Teacher; “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Counsel on a Percentage Proposition [Note: This excerpt is from a letter of counsel addressed to Elder J. A. Burden, manager of Loma Linda Sanitarium, written in response to his request for counsel. We quote here from his letter of October 9, 1905:
1MR 78.1
We must stand in the counsel of God, every one of us prepared to follow the example of Jesus Christ. We cannot consent to pay extravagant wages. God requires of his under-physicians a compliance with the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30). Letter 309, 1905, p. 4. (To Brother and Sister J. A. Burden, November 1, 1905.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 214, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 214, 1902, par. 3
My son, move very carefully. Take Christ’s yoke, and learn of Him. He invites all who will to take His yoke. “Learn of Me,” He pleads, “for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 88, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 88, 1903, par. 7
“Take My yoke upon you,” Christ said, as in human nature He lived and worked upon this earth. Constantly He wore the yoke of submission, meeting the difficulties that human beings must meet, bearing the trials that they must bear. The enemy will continually assault us as he assaulted Christ, bringing against us strong temptation. But for every one there is a way of escape. “Take My yoke upon you,” Christ says, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 212, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 212, 1903, par. 3
“Learn of Me,” said the great Medical Missionary; “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Daily in the school of Christ we are to learn lessons of self-denial and cross-bearing.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 40, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 40, 1903, par. 2
You are to receive the grace of Christ, the great Medical Missionary. His divine wisdom will be given to you if you will refuse to yield to the inclination to link up with the world. God desires you to place yourself where you can work in connection with other physicians. You and the one with whom you are associated may not be of the same temperament. It is better if you are not. That which one needs the other may supply[, i]f each will learn to wear the yoke of Christ. “Take My yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 151, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 151, 1903, par. 10
Christ took upon Himself human nature, that He might place men and women on vantage ground with God and at last present before the universe a people who have met the strongest temptations of Satan and have conquered on every point. He was afflicted with all the afflictions wherewith man is afflicted. “Learn of Me;” He says, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 246, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 246, 1903, par. 13
O that those who are rulers of nations would realize the responsibility resting upon them to be representatives of God, to set a right example, to shun the use of intoxicating liquor, that they may never be found off their guard. Judges, lawyers, senators should give evidence to those who look to them for guidance that they acknowledge themselves to be under the control of a supreme Ruler, even Christ. They are to heed the invitation, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] No man who ignores his obligations to God has succeeded, or can succeed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 89, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 89, 1903, par. 6
A teacher should learn to control himself before he attempts to deal with the youth. If he is not a constant learner in the school of Christ; if he has not the discernment and discrimination that enable him to employ wise methods in his work; if he cannot control those in his charge with firmness, yet pleasantly and kindly, how can he be successful in his teaching? The teacher who is not under the control of God needs to heed the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1556—Church Leader to Be Self-Denying and Humble, Not Proud and Dictatorial
21MR 270.4
Jesus came to this earth to stand at the head of humanity. He passed through all the phases of human experience, and at the end died on the cross that we might be saved. He became poor, that we by following in His steps in meekness and lowliness of heart, might become wise unto salvation, and rich with the eternal reward that is for everyone who will accept the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 138, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 138, 1903, par. 13
Parents, help your children to prepare for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love Him. Help them to fulfil God’s purpose for them. Let your training be such that it will help them to be an honor to the One who died to secure for them eternal life in the kingdom of God. Teach them to respond to the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 148, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 148, 1903, par. 12
I pray that every church member, every worker in our institutions may feel to the depth of his being that the end of all things is at hand. Let them work and strive and pray and believe. They have a heaven to win and eternal death to shun. O that each one would seek the Lord for himself, that he might gain a personal experience in the things of God. I would that I could sound to the ends of the earth the words, “Seek the Lord, seek Him without delay. Satan is striving to preoccupy your thoughts, but give him no place in your mind or heart. Accept the invitation of the Saviour, ‘Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy and My burden is light.’” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 195, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 195, 1903, par. 22
Awake, my brethren, awake. Seek righteousness, and stand under the broad shield of Omnipotence. This is your only safety. God calls upon you to seek Him with humility of heart. Read Daniel’s prayer, and see if your experience will stand the test of fire. God will richly bless those who humble themselves before Him. His mercy and grace will be extended to all who wear the yoke of Christ, responding to the invitation, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 59, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, par. 15
“Take My yoke upon you,” Christ says, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Will you follow the prescription? If you will, you will find the rest that Christ alone can give.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 101, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, par. 18
Why, I ask, is the church so slow in comprehending sanctifying truth? Nothing short of perfect obedience to the commandments of God will prepare men for those mansions which Christ is preparing for those who love Him. We need in our hearts Christ’s love for one another. We need to learn His meekness and lowliness. “Take My yoke upon you,” He says, “and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 69, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, par. 11
“Likewise ye younger, submit yourselves to the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another; for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” [Verses 5, 6.] You will sometimes feel that you are wronged, abused, misjudged, but looking to Jesus, remember the words, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 231, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, par. 5
I should have been pleased to speak words of encouragement to the physician’s wife and to her sister. I should like to have said to them, “Be sure, my dear friends, ever to walk with Christ. Learn of Me, said the divine Teacher; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [See Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 143, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, par. 14
Let us remember that our work in every line must bear the inspection of Him whose eyes behold and try the children of men. He understands the motives that we cannot fathom. It is our privilege to behold the life of our Lord and to be changed into the same image. It is our privilege to listen to His voice, saying, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 177, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 177, 1904, par. 3
It is the weaving into the web of so many figures that are not in the pattern that spoils the fabric. Have we not had enough of this? The Lord calls for a proclamation of the truth in new territory. This has been the burden of my message for the last twenty years. The Lord calls for greater simplicity; for people are woefully ignorant. Saith the great Teacher, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Selected Messages Book 2
A Percentage Proposition Counseled Against
2SM 200.3
We must stand in the counsel of God, every one of us prepared to follow the example of Jesus Christ. We cannot consent to pay extravagant wages. God requires of His under-physicians a compliance with the invitation, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).—Letter 309, 1905.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 123, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, par. 8
Blessed Jesus! It is Thou who hast unlocked to Thy people the gates of prayer. Without Thy wonderful humiliation, Thy wonderful sacrifice, they would have remained forever closed. There is indeed enough in the Word of God to encourage us, to strengthen us to believe and hold fast to the arm of God’s power. It was the Saviour’s atoning sacrifice that set ajar for us the gates of hope. He invites all who are weary and heavy laden, and this means you and me, to come to Him and find rest. “Take My yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, par. 9
Christ’s sacrifice has opened for us the heaven He desires us to reach, and His patience, forbearance, and grace keep it open. The comforting assurance is still for us, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Verse 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 256, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 256, 1904, par. 1
A departure from the faith has been working in you for a long time because you would not heed the words of Christ sent to you from the Lord to save your soul. “Follow Me.” Matthew 4:19. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. “As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Romans 8:14. “If any man hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.” V. 9. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” 2 Corinthians 3:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 53, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, par. 23
“The world knoweth us not because it knew Him not.” [1 John 3:1.] To cherish Christian principles means to develop Christian character. The world hates the characteristics that make men and women Christians. Did genuine religion please them, they would be pleased with those who in sincerity follow the Saviour. But they condemn and persecute those who comply with the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] The worldling does not enjoy looking upon the exemplification of Christian character. The life of the one who is constantly learning of Christ does not please him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 111, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, par. 12
I am bidden to say, Unless those who by hardening their hearts have made it necessary for God to speak by fire shall repent and be converted, they will be found wanting. They need to reveal in their lives that they have accepted the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] God cannot accept them unless they learn Christ’s meekness and lowliness. They need to have an experimental knowledge that Christ’s yoke is easy and His burden is light.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 343, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 343, 1905, par. 15
Let every one be determined to gain precious victories in the service of Christ. Wear the yoke of Christ and heed the invitation, “Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] There are triumphs to gain in every line of service. Satan is waiting for an opportunity to gain possession of the mind and heart and will. Let those who name the name of Christ make an entire clearance of the soul-temple of all that is opposed to God. Believers are to [have] a confirmed, settled faith in a personal God and a personal Christ. The Father and the Son are perfect in their individual identity, and at the same time, they are perfect in their oneness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 363, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 363, 1905, par. 4
I have ofttimes in the night awakened with deep earnest impressions and then no more sleep for me. For weeks it has been at one o’clock. I build my fires in [the] fireplace and then go to my writing. I have saddening things presented and the most blessed things of the future. The Lord will take means oft to humble and prove us. Never is there more gracious love than when our Saviour takes His own means to save us from greater trials, to humble us, to prove us, bringing us out of ourselves, our likings, our ways, our methods, and presents His yoke. “Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Praise the Lord, I know what this means, and I will follow the footsteps of my Redeemer, and I will walk in His footsteps. Only believe, only trust, is as if spoken to me, and I am at rest. Well, I think I have written about all you will care to read. Our mail now is closing and I must get this into the hands of Maggie just as it is. I must send it without copying.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 329, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 329, 1905, par. 6
Christ invites us, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] In our character building, give encouragement to every divine, sacred influence. The blessing from Jesus makes everything good and profitable. Have His praise in your heart and in your voice and in your words, and your hearts will become fit temples for the Holy Spirit of God. Your success depends upon constant watchfulness and earnest prayer. “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I have commanded you.” [John 15:14.] Depending upon the Lord, you can do the very things that are to be done, without murmuring and without disputing.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 128, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 128, 1905, par. 15
We would not censure the members of our churches, but we would encourage them to practice self-denial and to work unselfishly for those around them, knowing that every work done in truth and righteousness will receive its reward. “Learn of Me,” Christ said, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Selected Messages Book 2
Counsel and Caution to Those Who Anticipate Leaving the Cities
2SM 364.1
How shall this be done? “Take My yoke upon you,” saith Jesus Christ, who hath bought you with His own precious blood, whose servants and property you are, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30). If everyone will come to Jesus in a teachable spirit, with contrition of heart, then he is in a condition of mind to be instructed and to learn of Jesus and obey His orders.…Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 126, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 126, 1905, par. 7
Let the mind be closed in with the Redeemer. Let men heed the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] The mind may be swamped with a multitude of statements and assertions, some valuable, and some that should not be retained, which if retained would be of no benefit. Teachers, weed from your talks all that is not of the highest and best quality. Keep before the students those sentiments only that are essential. Never should the physician, teacher, or minister prolong his talks until the alpha is forgotten in long-drawn-out assertions that are not of the least benefit. The mind is swamped by a multitude of words that it cannot retain. Let the talks given be short and right to the point. Let the mind be kept sweet and pure and open to heaven’s first law, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 280, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 280, 1906, par. 10
Self needs to be brought into submission to the yoke of Christ. The great Teacher invites all to learn of Him. “For I am meek and lowly in heart,” He says, “and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 89, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 89, 1906, par. 14
We need by kindness and mercy to commend ourselves, and we are to give full esteem to those whom the Lord has chosen. All self-glorification is unbecoming. Let every man esteem others better than himself, putting away all envy, all evil surmising, all contention. “Take My yoke upon you,” says the Lord Jesus, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 31, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 31, 1906, par. 2
Many who profess godliness are asleep. They do not discern between righteousness and unrighteousness. Some have cherished unconsecrated traits of character till they are spiritually blind. O that every one would believe and live the truth as it is in Jesus. “Learn of Me,” said the greatest Teacher the world has ever known, “and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] The lesson that every soul needs to learn is to copy the perfect Pattern. The lessons of the King of peace, when practiced, reveal that Christ’s ways are ways of pleasantness and all His paths are peace.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 165, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 165, 1907, par. 6
“Learn of Me,” said the divine Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your soul. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 81, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 81, 1907, par. 17
“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me,” Christ said; “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Have you made this appear as Christ has stated it? For what reason do you put on the armor of warfare and battle so strongly? Sit down with Christ and learn of the divine Teacher. “The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” [2 Timothy 2:24-26.]Selected Messages Book 3
Chapter 1—What Is the Church?
3SM 16.1
The covenant of agreement in church membership is that each member would walk in the footsteps of Christ, that all will take his yoke upon them, and learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart. Doing this, “Ye shall,” saith the dear Saviour, “find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 338, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, par. 4
The Saviour invites us: “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] All who accept the yoke of Christ, identify themselves with Him. Through the ministration of the Holy Spirit, Christ reveals Himself to His people, uniting their hearts as one. He wills His righteousness to those who believe in Him, making them complete in Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 208, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, par. 8
The teachers in our schools are to be men of solid understanding, who study to become more and more capable by learning the lessons Christ has given in His Word. Their lives should be such that they will be recognized as men who have learned the lessons of a deep Christian experience. Ministers, physicians, and educators of the youth in any line are to be strong men mentally and spiritually as well as physically. Christ has made it possible for them to become His true ministers, to be sincere and true as steel to principle, and to reach the measure of the fulness of the stature of Christ. “Learn of Me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 344, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, par. 2
It is not the Lord who has placed in the human mind the plan to place any man where God should be. It is no design of His by which man is permitted to put yokes on his fellow laborers. I have pledged myself to the Lord to break the yokes that some have sought to place upon the necks of their fellow workers and to give liberty to those who fear God and keep His commandments. I am bidden to say to believers, You are not to permit any human yoke to be placed upon you. Christ says to you, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] “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. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” [James 1:5-8.]22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, par. 5
So long as self-sufficiency and self-exaltation have a place in the heart, there will be a low standard of character and an inability to reach the high standard that God sets before His people. The man-ruling power that has been coming into our ranks has no sanction in the Word. Satan has stolen in to lead men to depend on men and to make flesh their arm. I am instructed to say, Break every yoke that human invention has framed, and heed the voice of Christ, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls, for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 107, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 107, 1907, par. 9
Tears came into his eyes, as he declared that he wanted to be a kind man. “Well,” said I, “you know that you are not always kind, thoughtful, and courteous; but if you take yourself in hand to be just the learner you should be, you will heed the words of Christ, ‘Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.’ [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 156, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 156, 1907, par. 4
I am now preparing the private testimonies, for they contain so many warnings in regard to the very dangers we are passing through. No man has a right to be judge over his fellow man as his God-given right. What Christ was in His life, we are to strive to be. Christ is our model, not only in His spotless holiness, but in compassion and patience and forbearance and love. “Learn of Me,” saith the perfect Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] We are to learn of Christ true courtesy and excellent judgment, and we are never to place ourselves as a god to tell any man his duty, for that is not given us of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 117, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 117, 1907, par. 11
He who sitteth in the heavens looks with disapproval on the strange work that is being done by those who have exalted self. These workers would have accomplished much good if they had realized their weakness and had placed their dependence on God, but this they have failed to do. Christ now says to them, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Let our workers now realize that the claims of God are upon them to come into line as humble seekers after God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 166, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 166, 1908, par. 8
You will find your greatest strength in dwelling upon that which is spiritual. Let sanctification of the truth of the Word of God be revealed in your life. Let this agency refine and ennoble the soul. The Lord would have His ministering servants walk humbly before Him. “Take My yoke upon you,” He invites, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 63, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, par. 16
The most important thing for us to know is that we are working in harmony with God. The Lord wants the work of this institution to be carried on a high plane and souls to be converted through its instrumentality. It is the privilege of the workers here to speak words of comfort and uplifting to the sick and suffering. This work will have a good influence upon them and upon you. It will teach you how to help others and give you the joy of knowing that through you Christ is working to bring in an order of things where He can work on human minds. Above everything else we should desire to see the work of God move easily and intelligently. If you are working in harmony with the Spirit of God, the sick will understand it, whether they are believers in Christ or not. It is your privilege to make right impressions upon human minds. If this privilege is perverted, impressions will be made that tend to destroy. We do not want to do a work of destruction. Then let harmony prevail among the workers. Don’t bring discouragement upon the matron, who is trying to do her best. Come into line with Christ. “Learn of Me,” He says, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest onto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]That I May Know Him
Under Christ’s Yoke, April 25
TMK 121.1
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29, 30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 31, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 31, 1910, par. 6
Parents, never let your children hear you speak a word of impatience. Give them the help of a Christlike example. Accept the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29-30.] In complying with this invitation you will find joy in service, and sweetness of disposition will be brought into the life.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Elder Brother, March 25
JNN 93.1
“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”—Matthew 11:29, 30Jesus, Name Above All Names
Wise and Mighty Counselor, July 5
JNN 199.4
The Bible is to be to you practical and useful in every phase of your life. In every perplexity, go to God; keep your tongue as in a bridle while with men and women, but talk with God. A life guarded and controlled by the Word of God develops purity and nobility of character, comparable to fine gold, yea, even the golden wedge of Ophir. Jesus bids you come to Him in the night of trial, and you will find rest for your soul. He says, “Take My yoke upon you; and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your soul. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).The Great Controversy
Chapter 28—Facing Life’s Record
GC 489.2
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13. If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away. Through defects in the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind, and he knows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. Therefore he is constantly seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal sophistry that it is impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus pleads in their behalf His wounded hands, His bruised body; and He declares to all who would follow Him: “My grace is sufficient for thee.” 2 Corinthians 12:9. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 28—The Investigative Judgment
GC88 489.2
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper; but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” [Proverbs 28:13.] If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away. Through defects in the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind, and he knows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. Therefore he is constantly seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal sophistry that it is impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus pleads in their behalf his wounded hands, his bruised body; and he declares to all who would follow him, “My grace is sufficient for thee.” [2 Corinthians 12:9.] “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.Counsels on Health
A Work That Will Endure
CH 355.3
Christians should carry with them, wherever they go, the sweet fragrance of Christ’s righteousness, showing that they are complying with the invitation, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Are you learning daily in the school of Christ—learning how to dismiss doubt and evil surmisings, learning how to be fair and noble in your dealings with your brethren, for your own sake and for Christ’s sake?The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 23—The Investigative Judgment
4SP 314.1
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper; but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” [Proverbs 28:13.] If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them how he taunts Christ and holy angels with them, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away. Satan is continually seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal sophistry that their defective traits of character render it impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus pleads in their behalf his wounded hands, his bruised body; and he declares to all who would follow him, “My grace is sufficient for thee.” “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.The Upward Look
Help Only in Christ, January 20
UL 34.3
The more you preserve your Christian integrity to know and understand for yourself the way of life and salvation, the less of the worldly mold will be upon you. The more you know of Jesus, the more you will desire to know, and the more ignorant you will feel that you are in regard to things of eternal interest. We want the right spirit, the teachable spirit, willing to learn in Christ’s school the lessons of humility and meekness. “Learn of me,” said the heavenly Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).This Day With God
The Purifying Process, May 22
TDG 151.7
You will find your greatest strength in dwelling upon that which is spiritual. Let the sanctification of the truth of the Word of God be revealed in your life. Let this agency refine and ennoble the soul. The Lord would have His ministering servants walk humbly before Him. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).—Letter 166, May 22, 1908, to W. W. Prescott, editor of the Review and Herald.This Day With God
Practice Run for Heaven, October 6
TDG 288.3
Christ never spoke a harsh or an unkind word. When tempted by His associates to do wrong, He would sing from the Psalm, or by some word of Scripture would discourage the enemy. Do not be ashamed to learn of Christ. He invites you, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30). When you feel provoked to anger consider that in manifesting this spirit, you are not wearing the yoke of Christ, which is one of obedience, restraint, service.Ye Shall Receive Power
Kindness, March 13
YRP 81.4
We may talk of the blessings of the Holy Spirit, and pray in regard to receiving them; but unless the human agent is worked by the Spirit of God, He reveals that he has Him not. When the Spirit molds and fashions the character after the divine similitude, He will be unmistakably revealed in every word we speak and in everything we do, showing to the world that there is a marked difference between the children of light and the children of darkness. The Lord wants us to stand stiffly for the faith once delivered to the saints. We are to speak the truth in love. Our great Teacher says, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).—Letter 84, 1899.Words of Encouragement to Workers in the Home Missionary Field
Unreserved Surrender
PH164 34.1
“Take My yoke upon you,” Christ said, as in human nature He lived and worked upon this earth. Constantly He wore the yoke of submission, meeting the difficulties that human beings must meet, bearing the trials that they must bear. The enemy will continually assail us as he assailed Christ, bringing against us strong temptation. But for every one there is a way of escape. “Take My yoke upon you,” Christ says, “and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30.Letters to Physicians and Ministers
The Work for This Time
SpTB01 3.3
Christians should carry with them, wherever they go, the sweet fragrance of Christ’s righteousness, showing that they are complying with the invitation, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Are you learning daily in the school of Christ,—learning how to dismiss doubt and evil surmisings, learning how to be fair and noble in your dealings with your brethren, for your own sake, and for Christ’ sake?Christ in His Sanctuary
Perfecting Holiness in the Fear of God
CIHS 186.3
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13. If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away. Through defects in the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind, and he knows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. Therefore he is constantly seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal sophistry that it is impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus pleads in their behalf His wounded hands, His bruised body; and He declares to all who would follow Him: “My grace is sufficient for thee.” 2 Corinthians 12:9. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.Homeward Bound
Christ’s Intercession Essential, October 6
HB 307.3
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13.) If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away. Through defects in the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind, and he knows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. Therefore he is constantly seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal sophistry that it is impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus pleads in their behalf His wounded hands, His bruised body; and He declares to all who would follow Him: “My grace is sufficient for thee.” (2 Corinthians 12:9.) “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:29, 30.) Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 8a, 1879
3LtMs, Lt 8a, 1879, par. 2
The more you preserve your Christian integrity to know and understand for yourself the way of life and salvation, the less of the worldly mold will be upon you. The more you know of Jesus, the more you will desire to know, and the more ignorant you will feel that you are in regard to things of eternal interest. We want the right spirit, the teachable spirit, willing to learn in Christ’s school the lessons of humility and meekness. “Learn of Me,” said the heavenly Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30.Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
Further Instruction
CT 211.3
Before he attempts to guide the youth, a teacher should learn to control himself. If he is not a constant learner in the school of Christ; if he has not the discernment and discrimination that would enable him to employ wise methods in his work; if he cannot govern those in his charge with firmness, yet pleasantly and kindly, how can he be successful in his teaching? The teacher who is not under the control of God needs to heed the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 8, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 8, 1886, par. 15
I invite you to come into the school of Christ. Yoke up with the Master. He says, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Then you will not feel that you are carrying a heavy load for the Master, for He will carry it for you. He says, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Verse 30.] Then bring Jesus into your life, and you will see that you have the help of the Lord just as surely as Jesus has promised it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 3, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 3, 1886, par. 35
We will surely find the peace and rest that Jesus has promised if we learn to wear His yoke and bear His burdens. “Learn of Me,” says the Great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest to your souls; for My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 98, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 98, 1886, par. 3
Found many letters when I returned home, but looked in vain for one from my children. I know that Edson is full of work and care. Emma is not, and I shall expect to hear from her and will try to answer. I have dreams about you. In my dreams I see Edson perplexed, and I saw Christ looking pityingly upon him, saying, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light. In Me you shall have rest and peace.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 83, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 83, 1886, par. 28
The trouble is, more men have their own ways and follow their own will instead of God’s will and ways. They cripple God’s work and have their own ways and customs. But God wants us to have new and increased light every day, and scatter this light upon the pathway of others; may God help us. When the Spirit of Christ comes into our hearts, this feeling will melt away like frost in the sun. What we want is the sweet, subduing influence of the Spirit of God, and we want self to die and Christ to live in us. We want to grasp the rich promises of God, take up the cross, and yoke up with Christ. He says, “Take My yoke upon you.” [Matthew 11:29.] There is but one yoke for any of us, and just as soon as we submit ourselves to Christ, then the first song that will break forth from our lips is, “The yoke of Christ is easy and His burdens are light.” [Verse 30.] But if you manufacture a yoke of your own, you will find it is heavy and grievous to be borne.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 61
It is easier to crush and destroy the world than to reform it. Christ gave His life that fallen man might be reformed. Disorder, darkness, and death, like a funeral pall, covers the world. Oh, shall not men, limited in experience, be willing to sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him? By beholding His ways, His works, by viewing His self-denying life, they may be changed. He says, “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest (peace) in your souls. Take my yoke upon you ... for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 42, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 42, 1891, par. 9
We had an excellent meeting. There was a great solemnity upon some minds. Whenever there is a consecration of mind, there is heeding of the words of Christ, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden in light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. Oh, that each may humble his own soul before God! But Satan is always ready to crowd in [and cause] man to be very officious and to lead men in councils to take superior responsibilities which educate men to trust in men and make flesh their arm. This has been done. Let every man understand he is not accountable to obtain his permits of his fellow man, who is as liable to mistakes as himself, but let men heed the words of the Lord Jesus and learn of Him, and wear His yoke, for He is meek and lowly in heart and “ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 44, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 44, 1894, par. 18
Instead of toiling to prepare set rules and regulations, you might better be praying and submitting your own will and your ways to Christ. He is not pleased when you make hard the thing He has made easy. He says, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] The Lord Jesus loves His heritage, and if men will not think it their special prerogative to prescribe rules for their fellow laborers, but will bring Christ’s rules into their life, and copy His lessons, then each will be an example, and not a judge.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 10, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 10, 1894, par. 26
The Bible is to be to you practical and useful in every phase of your life. In every perplexity, go to God; keep your tongue as in a bridle while with men, but talk with God. A life guarded and controlled by the Word of God develops purity and nobility of character, comparable to fine gold, yea, even the golden wedge of Ophir. Jesus bids you come to Him in the night of trial, and you will find rest for your soul. He says, “Take my yoke upon you; and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your soul. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 43, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 43, 1895, par. 9
Oh, that men would revere the great Head of the church, and would manufacture less human methods, bringing down spirituality to the very dust with human inventions. God has been left out, and the church is not prepared to advance to the conflict under the banner of Jesus Christ. It is not doing the work for suffering souls, which Christ owns as if done to Himself. But the church, defective as it is, and enfeebled with so much chaff, is the only object on earth upon which He bestows His highest regard. In His estimation the church in heaven and the church on earth are identical. He has promised to come personally into the midst of His church. He says to everyone holding [a] position of trust, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 119, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 119, 1895, par. 33
Oh, that men would revere the great Head of the church, and would manufacture less human methods, bringing down spirituality to the very dust with human inventions! God has been left out, and the church is not prepared to advance to the conflict under the banner of Jesus Christ. It is not doing the work for suffering souls, [who] Christ owns, as if done to Himself. But the church, defective as it is, and enfeebled with so much chaff, is the only object on earth upon which He bestows His highest regard. In His estimation, the church in heaven and the church on earth are identical. He has promised to come personally into the midst of His church. He said to everyone holding a position of truth, “learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 47, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 47, 1895, par. 20
There is great danger that students in the schools will fail of learning the all-important lesson which our Master would have them taught. This lesson is conveyed to us in the following scripture: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart. And ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Some have not only failed to learn to bear the yoke of the meek and lowly Jesus, but have been unable to stand against the temptations which have surrounded them. Inexperienced youth who have journeyed long distances to obtain the advantages of an education at our school have lost their hold upon Jesus. These things ought not so to be.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 10a, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 10a, 1895, par. 23
There is great danger that students in the schools will fail of learning the all-important lesson which our Master would have them taught. This lesson is conveyed to us in the following Scripture; “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Some have not only failed to learn to bear the yoke of the meek and lowly Jesus, but have been unable to stand against the temptations which have surrounded them. Inexperienced youth who have journeyed long distances to obtain the advantages of an education at our school have lost their hold upon Jesus. These things ought not so to be.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 2a, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 2a, 1896, par. 3
Christ has invited you, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Take my yoke upon you, for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] There are many serious, important lessons for both of you to learn before you can find your way to the hearts of those perishing in their sins. When Christ is abiding in your heart you will reveal Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 127, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 127, 1896, par. 2
Christ says to you: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] These words mean a great deal more than many suppose. If you had placed yourself under the yoke of Christ, you would not have been in the position you have been in for years. Your readiness to hear and to accept the propositions of unsanctified men, and yoke up with them, has revealed a great lack of moral perception. The very first step in the direction of withdrawing your neck from Christ’s yoke was revealed in your divided position.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 62, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, par. 43
The Lord is waiting to behold in His followers that which they have learned of Him. “Learn of me,” said Jesus, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30.Lift Him Up
The Greatest Object, October 8
LHU 295.4
The covenant of agreement in church membership is that each member would walk in the footsteps of Christ, that all will take His yoke upon them, and learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart. Doing this, “Ye shall,” saith the dear Saviour, “find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29, 30).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 41b, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, par. 32
My brother and sister whom I love in the Lord, you have many things to learn. A new experience must be gained by a close, careful, earnest education in the school of Christ. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98, 1896, par. 34
No one can come to God through any other man. God commands men to repent of their sins, and come to Him just as they are, all covered with sin and pollution. They are to receive His crucified, only begotten Son into their hearts, and be one with Him as He is one with the Father. It is the privilege of all that are weary and heavy laden to come to Christ. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me; ... for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 14, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, par. 14
Men in every position of trust need to take their place in the school of Christ, and heed the injunction of the great Teacher: “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] We have no excuse for manifesting one wrong trait of character. “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of Hosts.” [Zechariah 4:6.] In your dealings with others, whatever you see or hear that needs to be corrected, first seek the Lord for wisdom and grace, that in trying to be faithful, you may not be rude. Ask Him to give you the gentleness of Christ; then you will be true to your duty, true to your position of trust, and true to God, a faithful steward, overcoming natural and acquired tendencies to evil.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 35, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, par. 19
The light which God has given me in regard to ministers’ wives is, If their life is kept in close consecration to God, as is the duty of all who are laborers together with Him, they will find so many souls to minister unto, that they will have no opportunity to be lonesome, or to cultivate selfishness in any line. Jesus says, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Those who heed this invitation will have no thought of repining, no thought of loneliness. Their work is to do the will of Christ. As they do this, they will have sweet peace and rest of soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 60, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 60, 1896, par. 13
In the school in Melbourne, I carried through a large number of students; but I cannot do this now. But I know that the Lord will help us if we are willing to follow His example, and not perpetuate a desire to make an appearance. This principle should be discerned by the Word of God and cut away from the life practice by the Holy Spirit’s power. My brother and sister whom I love in the Lord, you have many things to learn. A new experience must be gained by a close and careful, earnest education in the school of Christ. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me;” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” “Every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Matthew 7:13, 26, 27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 155, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 155, 1896, par. 10
The churches that claim to believe we have the last message of warning to be given to our world are called upon by the greatest, the most self-denying Missionary that ever trod the earthly soil. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29, 30. “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Mark 8:34. The Lord Jesus demands action and co-operation. This is His preordained order. There need not ever be a retrograde movement in this holy, aggressive work. This is the time when skepticism and disloyalty to Jesus Christ are prevalent and they are entering into churches.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 178, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 178, 1896, par. 3
Christ, your Redeemer, invites you to “Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly of heart and ye shall find rest unto your soul, for My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Your great pleasure has been to do as your please, however much pain you bring to the heart of father or mother. Will it pay, young man? I have a great desire that you should accept the invitation of Christ and wear the yoke of Christ. I know that you can if you wear Christ’s yoke. Live not to please yourself but be what you can be through earnest endeavor, a laborer together with Christ because you wear His yoke. Your life in this world, if improved, can make the world better for your having lived in it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 72, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 72, 1897, par. 3
This example is set before us. This is the value which the Lord places upon the human race. Shall man then fail to act his part to redeem his fellow men? This work of redemption moved the universe. Is it not sufficient to move and stir our souls? Shall we not work for the recovery of man? Shall we not place ourselves under the Holy Spirit’s working, that every jot of the ability and talent which God has given us may be united with the Master-worker, Jesus Christ, to seek and to save the lost? Where is our faith? We are invited by the world’s Redeemer, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Here is a new bond of union in our co-operation with Jesus Christ for the recovery of fallen man.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 75, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 75, 1897, par. 7
Never forget that the Saviour’s loving presence continually surrounds us, and we are invited to come to Him when we are weary and heavy laden. He says, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Seek Him as One who wants you to find Him to the joy of your soul. This will give vitality to your faith and earnestness to your prayers. Never approach your Lord with the impression that He is far from you. He is near thee, even at thy right hand to help thee. Be sure to trust the keeping of your soul to Him. You are His by creation, and you are His by redemption.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 117, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 117, 1897, par. 1
Lie low at the feet of Jesus. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 530—“Surface Religion”-Will It Stand the Test?
8MR 12.2
O what deceptions are upon those who are looking for the beautiful and poetic in their speculations. They hear not the voice of the One who gave his life to self-denial, to humiliation, to suffering and a cruel, ignominious death to make it possible for human beings to keep the law of God. They can do this only by heeding the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:29, 30.) These are the lessons the great Teacher has given us. We are to take his yoke of submission, restraint, and obedience, in meekness and lowliness of heart. Those who yoke up with Christ will find rest and peace.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 60, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 60, 1897, par. 11
As laborers together with God, you are to give a representation in your own character of the character of Jesus Christ. “Take my yoke upon you and learn of me,” said the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] You are to be a representation of Christ. All sin, all hasty, untempered speech is a misrepresentation of His character. If God’s ministers were humble men; if their lives were hid with Christ in God, the Lord Jesus would appear in their words and actions glorified.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 68, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 68, 1897, par. 33
Is not the Word of God to be our guide and our director? Shall any be slow to study that Word? Shall any profess to be Christians, and yet by their course of action become a reproach to the faith, just because they desire to live to please their own natural inclinations? Will they, though professing faith in the truth, pursue a course to abuse that faith and dishonor the truth of heavenly origin? Who have appreciated the precious opportunities granted them in probationary time to form characters that God can approve, because they wear the yoke of obedience that Christ wore? What does He say in regard to this? “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 42, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 42, 1898, par. 35
All who desire a place of distinction have an opportunity to wear the yoke of Christ. “Learn of me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Let the cry of the soul be, “O Lord, thou art my God: I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. ... For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. ... And it shall be said in that day, Lo, This is our God, we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” [Isaiah 25:1, 4, 9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 138, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 138, 1898, par. 23
Will you consider that this is not as God would have it? The Lord has been greatly dishonored before the world. “Shall I not judge for these things?” He asks. [Jeremiah 5:9.] By study and prayer God would have us obtain a rich, full understanding of His will. But many, notwithstanding their profession of godliness, have never been truly converted. They have never been born again. They cling to their old citizen’s dress, failing to realize that a character of undivided allegiance is the only character that God can accept. Many have no true idea of the entire consecration that the Lord calls for. There is not a particle of the life over which the Lord does not wish to reign. In the very smallest matters His disciples are to obey His commands. We are to wear the yoke of Christ, never for a moment laying it off. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me; ... for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]13LtMs, Lt 138, 1898, par. 30
The Lord has given me a message to give to our churches. They are to co-operate in the work of spiritual tillage, with the hope of reaping bye and bye. There is much perversity to be met, much thwarting because of the evil hearts of unbelief. But this work must be done. The soil is stubborn, but the fallow ground must be broken up, and the seeds of righteousness sown. Pause not, teachers beloved of God, as though doubtful whether to prosecute a labor which will grow as performed. Fail not, neither be discouraged. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. We are laborers together with God. Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building. Remember that you cannot trust in self. God ploughs the ground and sows the seed through the instrumentality of His co-laborers. He furnishes in His Word that which we are to impart. Meditate upon the Scriptures; pray for light. Learn in Christ’s school that you must wear His yoke. He invites you, “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 140, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 140, 1898, par. 13
Are our people in America asleep that they cannot see that the work is near its close? The work that is done to make extra show and outward attraction is not the work God would have us do. The Majesty of heaven journeyed from place to place on foot, teaching out of doors by the seaside, and in the mountains. Thus He drew the people to Him. Are we greater than our Lord? Was His way the right way? Have we been working unwisely in maintaining simplicity and godliness? We have not learned our lesson yet as we should. Christ declares, Take my yoke of restraint and obedience upon you, and ye shall find rest unto your souls for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light. [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 105, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 105, 1898, par. 38
This is the kind of medical missionary work to be done. Bring the sunshine of the Sun of Righteousness into the rooms of the sick and suffering. Teach the inmates of poor homes how to cook. “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd,” with temporal and spiritual food. [Isaiah 40:11.] Christ invites you, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1313—Thoughts About the Pre-Flood World, Christ’s Love for Man, Fruit-Bearing, Peace, and Surrender to God’s Will
18MR 98.3
This day, June 3, 1902, I am instructed by the Lord to say that our great need now is to know that we are wearing Christ’s yoke. His service brings rest to the soul. Are we, in the fullest sense of the word, heeding the invitation, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” [Matthew 11:29-30]. By accepting this invitation, you commit your soul to God as unto a faithful Creator.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 55, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 55, 1898, par. 23
Students and teachers are to regard themselves as being in partnership. It will be of no benefit or blessing to the school for any of those who act as teachers to draw themselves apart. Work in Christ’s lines. Talk to each other and pray with each other as Christians. Stand under the yoke of Christ. “Learn of me,” said the great Teacher: “for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] I am instructed to speak to our teachers, urging them to become elevated, sanctified, ennobled, by heeding the invitation, Come unto me. Take upon you my yoke of restraint and obedience.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 65a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 65a, 1898, par. 28
All who desire a place of distinction have an opportunity to gain it by wearing the yoke of Christ. “Learn of me,” cried the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Let the cry of the soul be, “O Lord, thou art my God: I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. ... For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. ... And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God, we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we shall be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” [Isaiah 25:1, 4, 9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 94, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 94, 1898, par. 6
There is but a feeble sense of the sacredness of the things we are handling. “Take my yoke upon you,” says the great Teacher. “Learn of me, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] We are to walk as Christ walked, live as Christ lived. It is now, just now, that zeal is required. This zeal is to be purged from all selfishness, and there is to be an increase of every good work. Our work is to be under the supervision of the Holy Spirit. Have ye received the baptism of the Holy Ghost? If not, is it not high time that we had this blessing, which purges away our unsanctified words and enables us to use the talent of speech as a most sacred, entrusted gift?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 7, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 7, 1898, par. 25
Take up your appointed work. The Lord will fulfill the promise on His part. These inspired Scriptures would never have been given to you if the Lord had not had confidence that you could do all He has required. You can heed the invitation, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 173, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 173, 1899, par. 6
When we ourselves receive the Lord Jesus, and walk in His footsteps, our work is effectual. The sinner beholds the cross and repents. He receives Christ’s pardon for transgression. Then the instrument God has used in this work may step aside, and leave the soul who has been born again to go on to perfection. He has accepted the yoke of Him who said, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] In wearing Christ’s yoke of restraint and obedience, in looking unto Jesus and learning His meekness and lowliness of heart, there is created in the heart a hatred for every action which would wound the heart of Jesus Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 127, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 127, 1899, par. 39
This lesson is placed before us for our consideration. Every soul is amenable to the law of God. The knowledge of the law brings the repenting, believing soul to Christ, to learn of Him and wear His yoke. “Learn of me,” Christ says, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 176, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 176, 1899, par. 15
“Learn of me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] The time is coming when those who have wanted their own way, who have refused to wear the yoke of Christ, will see that they have failed to find the rest that Christ gives; but it will then be too late. He who wears Christ’s yoke sees constantly new beauty and loveliness in the Saviour. He counts self as nothing; for he keeps his eyes fixed on Jesus. He thinks of Jesus and speaks of Jesus. His soul is constantly reaching forward and upward for more distinct views of the One in whom all his hopes of eternal life are centered. Nothing is permitted to eclipse this view. Beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, he is changed into the same likeness from glory to glory, from character to character, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 177, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 177, 1899, par. 19
The words of those who do not respect the work of the ministry are of no value, for God is not with them. I have heard words spoken against our ministers which God never prompted. In heaven these words are registered as spoken against Jesus Christ. There are many who in the day of judgment will not be able to vindicate or justify their actions. Some who have not a ray of light on the subject of self-denial and self-sacrifice have hurt the ministry by their unguarded words. They have acted in this matter the same as those belonging to other denominations. Never allow inexperienced men—in the past a blot on God’s fair creation—who have been rescued by medical missionary work, to make a tirade in their speeches against those who are ministering in word and doctrine. This has been done, and it will be done again, unless more solid, intelligent moves are made in the work. Let the men rescued from the depths of degradation understand that God says to them, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Every truly converted man will find Christ’s yoke easy, and His burden light.Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1341—The Dangers of Mind-Cure; Neither Husband nor Wife to Control the Mind of the Other; an Appeal for Conversion
18MR 269.1
In the name of the Lord I ask you to awaken to your responsibilities and take up your work in the right way, with honest, earnest endeavor. Use your talents for good, and not for evil. Christ invites you, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” [Matthew 11:29, 30]. All the Lord asks is a faithful discharge of the duties revealed in His holy Word. From the lowliest to those occupying the highest positions, each one is required to fill his appointed place. The interest the Lord expects is proportionate to the capital entrusted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 6, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 6, 1899, par. 11
There is no hope for the success of any religious organization where criticism is cherished as a fine art and called spiritual discernment. Men might far better be blind to other’s faults than to be inspired by that keen, detective spirit that will watch for defects in those whom the Lord loves, and through whom He works. We all need to humble ourselves, not to have an exalted idea of self. We must all give heed to the words of Christ, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 152, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 152, 1899, par. 14
The narrow horizon of our piety as laborers together with God needs to be enlarged. We need to be vitalized. Then in walking humbly with God we shall read His Word with a sense of the sacredness of the truths, privileges, and duties which we little now suspect to be found in our Bibles. There is a great work to be done for all the people of God. Their experience is to be like that of Isaiah. A coal taken from the altar must be placed upon their lips. Then they are clean, and words of self-exaltation will not be spoken. There will be a decided effort, not for rivalry, not to exalt self, but to harmonize with others, to reveal that we individually wear the yoke of Christ. We heed the words of Christ, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Self sinks out of sight, and Christ is exalted.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 11:29
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 53, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 53, 1886, par. 4
What you need, my brother, is rest in Jesus. At present you know but little of this peace. But Jesus invites you to enter His school. He says, “Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your soul.” [Matthew 11:29.] You need to weave into your character more of the meekness and lowliness of Christ. We are in the antitypical day of atonement, and you need now to consider, as you have never done before, how your case will stand in the judgment. No longer seek to carry out your own way, but yoke up with Christ. Angels are looking upon you with pity and with yearning tenderness. They see your conflicts with a strong appetite, and they are ready to help you if you will only humble your heart before God and seek divine aid. Your soul is precious, but it must be refined and purified. It must be cleansed from all defilement by the blood of Jesus. I am sorry to say that you are not a Christian. Your character in no way represents the character of Christ; but notwithstanding your weakness, there is help for you in God, if you will place yourself where you can receive this help. Unless you are converted and cease to rely upon your own strength, you will certainly lose eternal life. If you continue the course that you have been pursuing in the past, your nerves will be completely shattered. You will become a physical wreck and will descend lower and lower in self-debasement. Will you not now before it is eternally too late sign the pledge which I send with this? Perilous times are before us. What position will you occupy in the stormy future? Will you be a humble child of God, a follower of the Lamb, or will you stand under the black banner of the powers of darkness?Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Consecration to the Work
GW92 28.1
Jesus said to his disciples, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] I would plead with those who have accepted the position of teachers, first to become humble learners, and ever to remain as pupils in the school of Christ, to receive from the Master lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. Humility of spirit, combined with earnest activity, will result in the salvation of souls so dearly purchased by the blood of Christ. The minister may understand and believe the theory of truth, and be able to present it to others; but this is not all that is required of him. “Faith without works is dead.” [James 2:20.] He needs the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. A living faith in Christ will bring every action of the life and every emotion of the soul into harmony with God’s truth and righteousness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 92, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 92, 1886, par. 2
I hope that the purpose of my adopting you as my children will be realized—that of seeing you both useful women, children of God, forming characters for the mansions which Jesus has gone to prepare for those who love Him. I greatly desire you should make this the aim, purpose, and pursuit of your life. This character building is a most important work. It is not a work that ends in this life, but which tells in the future life. What you make of yourself here through the merits and grace of Christ will be retained through eternal ages, and I am most earnest that you should not meet a low standard. “Learn of Me,” says the Great Teacher. “I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest to your soul.” [Matthew 11:29.] The peace that Christ gives will never, never bring sorrow with it. I am anxious that you learn daily in the school of Christ. I am hoping much from you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 2, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 2, 1886, par. 23
If you go to God with a humble, believing heart, to seek for guidance in your perplexity, then it is your privilege to rest your case with Him. Heaven and earth may pass before the promise would fail. Then take God at His Word. You did believe His promises when you were only three years old. Have the simplicity of a child now, and come to Jesus in clinging faith. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and your confidence will never be betrayed, never be turned against you. Look at Jacob pleading with God on the plains of Pennel. His prayer was heard and answered, and he obtained a mighty victory. Consider the case of Moses pleading with God, “Show me Thy glory.” [Exodus 33:18.] And the Lord heard him. Refresh your mind with the many cases that have come to God and been heard and answered. It is better to trust in the Lord, than to put confidence in princes. Bring your case to the great Intercessor who is standing before the mercy seat, pleading in behalf of sinful man. I love Jesus; for He has never disappointed me. If you allow the speeches of even your brethren to take away your heart and faith, and turn your feet out of the path of duty, God will neither excuse nor bless you. If you allow cold and unsympathizing ones to discourage you, you will never enter the city of God as a conqueror. Learn to depend implicitly on the Lord Jesus. Study your Bible; for this is the voice of God speaking to you. Ask counsel of God, and you shall receive it. Counsel you will have from some source, and if those in whom you put confidence are not in the counsel of God themselves, they will not be safe advisers. Take counsel of God. “Learn of Me,” says Jesus; “for I am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest to your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 11, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 11, 1888, par. 70
Christ says, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” “Take my yoke upon you.” [Matthew 11:29.] Will we do this? Will we wear the yoke of Christ? Will we be renewed in the spirit of our mind and daily strive to cultivate humility and childlike simplicity, willing to be the least of all and the servant of all? Without this spirit our life is not hid with Christ in God. The self-importance which many manifest is exactly opposite to the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Those who think least of self and exalt Jesus most will be greatest in the kingdom of heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 4, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 4, 1889, par. 32
“Learn of me,” says the divine Teacher; “for I am meek and lowly in heart,” and the promise is positive, “ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Oh, that all who are in any way connected with the work of God were endowed with heavenly wisdom, that they might reveal the fact that they have learned in the school of Christ. If every man who has entered the ministry depended upon the Lord and not upon self, the power of God would attend the efforts of His servants and great good would be accomplished. Those who labor in Word and doctrine must be men who search the Scriptures daily, who pray earnestly and constantly for divine enlightenment <and who receive it when it does come because they have the heavenly anointing.>Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 21, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 21, 1889, par. 19
“Learn of me,” said the divine Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest to your souls.” Matthew 11:29. We must learn self-denial, we must learn courage, patience, fortitude, and forgiving love. We are not to despair, for if we have faith in Jesus as our helper, if our eyes of faith are directed to Him constantly, we shall become like Jesus in character. He will abide in our hearts and we will abide in Christ. Being clothed with the righteousness of Christ, our lives are hid with Christ in God. He will be our Counsellor. If we ask Him in faith He will enlighten our understanding.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 14, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 14, 1889, par. 10
Jesus said to His disciples, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] I would plead with those who have accepted the position of teachers, to become humble learners, and ever remain as pupils in the school of Christ, to receive from the Master lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. Humility of spirit, combined with earnest activity, will result in the salvation of souls so dearly purchased by the blood of Christ. We may understand and believe the theory of the truth, and be able to present it to others, but this is not all that is required. “Faith without works is dead.” [James 2:26.] We need that faith that works by love, and purifies the soul. A living faith in Christ will bring every action of life and every emotion of the soul into harmony with God’s truth and righteousness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 4, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 4, 1889, par. 7
We want to learn in the school of Christ meekness and lowliness of heart, and from whom are we to learn these lessons? Jesus says “I am meek and lowly of heart.” “Learn of Me.” [Matthew 11:29.] Now, if there is anything [in] us like self, then Christ cannot dwell there. We want to represent Christ to the world. We must have self hid <with> Christ in God, and when this is the case, we will represent Christ to the world. O, there is something wonderful about it. He loves us as He loves His Son. Just think of it! Loves us as He does His Son! This is wonderful, wonderful. In Him we have all heaven presented to us, and the more we see in Jesus the less we see that is good in self.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 18, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 18, 1889, par. 16
Did you know this is the business of the enemy, to be an accuser of the brethren? You accustom yourself to find something to condemn in your brethren. They are mortal, erring men like yourself. If you should see the defects existing in your own character, you would not be so ready to seize upon these things which you consider as faults in them. You need to bring your own life and character daily to the test of God’s Word. Study your Bible with a humble mind. Make no superficial work in its perusal, and do not neglect self-investigation. “Learn of me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.]In Heavenly Places
True to Our Name, February 20
HP 57.4
Learn of Him who has said, “I am meek and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29). Learning of Him, you will find rest. Day by day you will gain an experience in the things of God, day by day realize the greatness of His salvation and the glory of a union with Him. Constantly you will learn better how to live Christlike, and constantly you will grow more like the Saviour.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 22, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 22, 1890, par. 46
Let all in the sanitarium, whether high or low, take heed that not one soul with whom they are connected shall suffer from their peculiar selfish, egotistical notions. Be broad, noble and Christlike; and this comprehends all goodness and faithfulness. Let it be impressed upon every soul that the moral tone in every department of the sanitarium must be elevated. Time must be given to personal religious culture. All must learn their lessons in the School of Christ, learn to wear His yoke and to bear His burdens, not burdens of their own making. “Learn of Me,” says Jesus; “For I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] Let those in command learn how to train others by first training themselves to do justice and to love mercy. Do not excuse anything in yourselves that you would condemn in another. Never, never, seek to make the workers under you feel the hand of oppression.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 4, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 4, 1890, par. 16
The Saviour invites you, “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Some for whom you labor will wish to have the work done in their own way, thinking their way is best. But if you have the spirit, the meekness of Christ, if you show love and respect for one another, God will enable you to perfect the work in a manner that will please Him. Show that you yourselves are willing to be taught.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 6a, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 6a, 1890, par. 81
Let those who claim to be Bible believers act out their faith by obedience to all the requirements of God. Christ has invited you, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest to your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 44, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 44, 1891, par. 1
I wish to address a few words to you. You seem to think that it is necessary for you to receive the patients and guests at the Retreat, then you would be better prepared to give them Bible studies. I cannot see that it has any special bearing on your work whether you are the first to receive the guests and patients, or otherwise. After they are located in their rooms, and the strangeness has worn away, then is the more favorable time for you to approach them in the wisdom and fear of God. You need, my sister, to learn daily in the school of Christ, just as He has invited you, saying, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Unless you cultivate meekness and the simplicity of a little child, you will fail of reaching the hearts of those for whom you labor.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 24, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 24, 1892, par. 16
The church may pass resolution upon resolution to put down all disagreement of opinions, but we cannot force the mind and will, and thus root out disagreement. These resolutions may conceal the discord, but they cannot quench it and establish perfect agreement. Nothing can perfect unity in the church but the spirit of Christlike forbearance. Satan can sow discord; Christ alone can harmonize the disagreeing elements. Then let every soul sit down in Christ’s school and learn of Christ, who declares Himself to be meek and lowly of heart. Christ says that if we learn of Him, worries will cease and we shall find rest to our souls. [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 2c, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 2c, 1892, par. 20
We want to know if you will love your neighbor as yourself? Will you make any personal sacrifice that these saving truths may go to destitute regions, where the people are perishing for the bread of life? Are you disciples of Christ? Are you living as seeing Him who is invisible? Are you abiding in Christ, and becoming fitted for any work that the Master calls you to do? “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] You are not to wear a yoke of your own manufacture. Christ says, “Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] Are you willing to walk in humility, to lift and carry the cross, and follow the Master? Are you willing to deny self daily for Christ’s sake? Will you co-operate with Jesus? If you appreciate the truth, wherein do you earnestly labor that it may be carried to others?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 52, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 52, 1891, par. 24
There is a reason that Michigan is destitute of laborers. For fifteen years I have been shown there have been men completely discouraged from entering the ministry, for they see the way that is practiced in dealing with the men who labor in the cause of God. These methods, I have been shown, would bring about this state of things [here] and in other conferences [that adhere] to the same course and bring about a similar condition of things. You must, none of you, think that in exalting your own selves, in estimating the value of your own labors, you are elevating the standard of truth. The standard of truth is elevated in constantly seeking heavenly wisdom in practical godliness representing the character of Jesus Christ. “Learn of me,” said Christ, “for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:29.In Heavenly Places
The Precious Attribute of Meekness, August 17
HP 236.3
The heavenly universe looks upon an absence of meekness and lowliness of heart. The self-exaltation, the feeling of swelling importance, makes the human agent so large in his own estimation that he feels that he has no need of a Saviour, no need to wear Christ’s yoke. But the invitation to each soul is, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 6, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 6, 1892, par. 46
You may flatter yourselves that you have many generous, noble attributes, and are disposed to do kind things; but do you obey the commandments of God—every one of them? None are qualified for the work of God but those who have a constant sense of their own weakness and ignorance, so that they feel the need of being constant learners in the school of Christ. The Saviour says, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 26, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 26, 1891, par. 6
Brother Blakeley is in danger of taking positions that will not lead to beneficial results, either to himself or to others. He encourages controversy and discussion, and those who do not know the truth but who serve God according to the light they have, are likely to become afraid of the truth and those who advocate it. The very best and only safe course for this brother to take is to pray more and talk less. He needs to eat of the flesh and drink of the blood of the Son of God. “The flesh profiteth nothing,” says Christ, “the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:63.] All of you, especially the one named, need a deeper and more thorough experience in the school of Christ. “Learn of me,” says Christ, “for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] The lesson which every Christian should learn is that of the meekness and gentleness of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 105, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 105, 1893, par. 15
Your discernment needs to be cleansed and sanctified. You need to have an eye single to the glory of God. Then you will no longer see things in a perverted light. Every Christian has his own burden of responsibility, which he cannot evade. He must work and watch and pray. The one who is a child of God has a vital spiritual union with Christ. Religion is no guesswork with him; for he knows in whom he was believed. “Learn of me,” says the greatest Teacher the world ever knew. [Matthew 11:29.] Keep the eye fixed on Me. Take Me as your model. Let nothing interpose between your soul and Me.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 34, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 34, 1893, par. 29
The teachers who work in this part of the Lord’s vineyard need to learn the trade first, to be self-possessed, keeping their own temper and feelings under control, in subjection to the Holy Spirit of God. They should give evidence of having not a one-sided experience, but a well-balanced mind, a symmetrical character [so] that they can be trusted because they are conscientious Christians, themselves under the chief Teacher who has said, “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Then learning in Christ’s school daily they can educate children and youth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 12a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 12a, 1893, par. 31
Now mark the sure evidence that we do know God—“And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected; hereby know we that we are in him.” [Verses 3-5.] That is the unmistakable evidence that we are the sons and daughters of God. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” [Verse 6.] “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example that we should follow in his steps.” [1 Peter 2:21.] “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 2:5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 51, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 51, 1893, par. 16
Let the teachers who claim to be Christians be learning daily in the school of Christ His lessons. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] I ask you, Is every educator in the school wearing the yoke of Christ, or manufacturing yokes of their own to place upon the necks of others, yokes which they themselves will not wear, sharp, severe, exacting; and this, too, while they are carrying themselves very loosely toward God, offending every day in the little and larger matters, and making it evident in words, in spirit, and in actions that they are not a proper example for the students and are not having a sense that they are under discipline to the greatest Teacher the world ever knew. There needs to be a higher, holier mold on the school in Battle Creek, and on other schools which have taken their mold from it. The customs and practices of the Battle Creek school go forth to all the churches, and the pulse heartbeats of that school are felt throughout the body of believers.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 12b, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 12b, 1893, par. 18
That is the unmistakable evidence that we are sons and daughters of God. “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself so to walk, even as he walked.” [Verse 6.] “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example that ye should follow in his steps.” [1 Peter 2:21.] “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 2:5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 21a, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 21a, 1894, par. 26
Christ was the greatest Teacher the world ever knew. He says, “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] No one is qualified to care for the Lord’s heritage, to win souls to a knowledge of the truth, to establish, strengthen, and settle them, unless he feels his own weakness, and thankfully receives the benefit that may come to him through blessed gifts which the Lord has bestowed upon other laborers. Linked together in confidence, in the bonds of holy love, brother may receive from brother all the help that can possibly be obtained from one another. If such a laborer is consecrated to the cause of God, he will feel such a deep interest for the souls of those for whom he labors that he will call for help, and give full freedom for every God-appointed agency to take hold with him, that if possible those things which he lacks may be supplied by others.Lift Him Up
Our Elder Brother Brings Us Rest, March 24
LHU 97.1
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29.LHU 97.3
Tenderly He bade the toiling people, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” (Matthew 11:29).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 18, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 18, 1894, par. 9
My sister, very many things which your hands find to do, which are of a trifling character, and are really nerve taxing rather than nerve quieting, might better be left undone. Like Mary, sit at the feet of Jesus, learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart, and the promise, is, “Ye shall find rest unto your soul.” [Matthew 11:29.] Regulate all your words and actions by the principles of the holy law of God, which is to judge you in that last great day. You separate the large portion of your life from God, and rob Him of the capital of talents entrusted to your hands. This has produced numerous difficulties in your life and your work, which would be avoided if you would consent to bring yourself into subjection to Jesus Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 70, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 70, 1894, par. 2
I long to see the righteousness of Christ upon everyone who has any official standing in the office. For a long time warnings, invitations, entreaties, [and] reproofs have been given of God in order that decided reforms should be made in those who were not revealing the life of Christ in their characters. God has sent messages in order that there might have been a transformation of the natural temperament so that men, leaning on Christ, might be laborers together with God. Men should heed the instruction, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 1a, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 1a, 1894, par. 7
I inquire, will we ever learn the gentleness of Christ? Oh, how much we need to know Jesus, and our heavenly Father, that we may represent Him in character! All blessings are bestowed upon those who have a vital connection with Jesus Christ. Jesus calls us to Himself not simply to refresh us with His grace and presence for a few hours, and then to send us forth from His light to walk apart from Him in sadness and gloom. No, no. He tells us that we must abide with Him and He with us. Wherever His work is to be done He is present—tender, loving, and compassionate. He has prepared for you and me an abiding dwelling place in Himself. He is our refuge. Our experience should broaden and deepen. Jesus has opened up all the divine fullness of His inexpressible love, and He declares to you, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] O what meaning these words have—“Abide in Me,” “take My yoke upon you.” Will we take it? For the promise is, “ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [John 15:4; Matthew 11:29.] There is rest, complete rest in abiding in Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 68, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 68, 1894, par. 5
Not one of Christ’s true followers will practice selfish indulgence in any way when the cause of God in many places is languishing because of the poverty of the people. God means that someone shall supply that which is wanting for the needs of the poorer brethren, and for the necessities of His cause. The kingdom of heaven must be the first consideration. To follow Christ means to continually study His life of self-denial, and from high motives to practice His good works. Following means to render obedience. We are under service to God, and we must obey His commands. No soldier is counted a follower of his commander unless he obeys his general’s orders. The Master says, “Learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] Keep your eye on the Model, for Christ gave His life that He might become the Teacher of men. Keep yourselves from idols. He desires that every one who believes in Him should learn how to live His life, and practice His virtues.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 64, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 64, 1894, par. 14
God wants us to learn deeper lessons; He desires to lead us to greater heights, to educate us to love and obey Him. He wants to place us where we can use the talents God has given us. He is giving us opportunities to impart grace, that He may refill us with increased grace. It is by working in Christ’s lines that we become laborers together with God. “Take my yoke upon you,” says the Great Teacher, “and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Do not fail nor be discouraged in the work. Means may be restricted, but despair of nothing. You are laborers together with God. The promise is given you, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] God’s promise is immutable. The unfailing God has encouraged us to ask, assuring us that He will establish His Word. Hope and faith will increase as the agent of God works with all the talents and facilities God has provided. He will have a divine agency to work with him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 100, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 100, 1894, par. 9
Jesus says to all, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] The Lord says, “I will hear your requests. I will grant your petitions.” “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] Is this promise to be appropriated only by the presidents of conferences? No. Each one who asks will receive. Individually we are to wait upon the Lord, putting our petitions before Him. The religion of Jesus Christ rests upon the Word, on the definite, solid “Thus saith the Lord.” The Lord is more willing to give His Holy Spirit to them that ask it than parents are to give good gifts unto their children.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 63, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 63, 1895, par. 43
Let finite man consider that [that] which Christ did not venture to do will men undertake. The holy record states the Prince of Peace does not bring against Satan a railing accusation, although He had every chance and abundance of material, but He did not do it. [Jude 9.] Will speakers and writers who know these facts, who are acquainted with these grand truths concerning Christ’s dealing with the powers of darkness learn the lessons they ought to have learned much earlier in their experience—to wear Christ’s yoke, to practice the humility of Christ, “Learn of me,” says the Great Teacher. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] (I am not boastful, I hide my glory,) for I am meek and lowly of heart. In learning of me ye shall find rest to your souls. Sanctified tongues, sanctified pens will do a work that will lead to repentance, and that will not need to be repented of.