EGW WritingsMatthew 7
Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 5
Read Matthew 7 in the BibleMatthew 7:6-25
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 54, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 3
Brother Lee, you need to watch with the greatest care how you build. There is a storm coming which will test your hope to the utmost. You should dig deep and lay your foundation sure. “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock.” Matthew 7:24, 25.2LtMs, Lt 54, 1874, par. 50
Angels weep to see the precious truth of heavenly origin cast before swine, to be seized by them and trampled with the mire and dirt. Cast not “your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” [Matthew 7:6.] These are the words of the world’s Redeemer.Matthew 7:7
Counsels for the Church
Chapter 15—The Holy Spirit
CCh 98.2
My brethren and sisters, plead for the Holy Spirit, God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: “I have done as Thou hast said, I present Thy promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.’” Christ declares: “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” Matthew 7:7; Mark 11:24; John 14:13.Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 581—Relationship of Prayer to Soulwinning
8MR 190.1
God depends upon you, the human agent, to fulfill your duty to the best of your ability, and He Himself will give the increase. If human agents would but cooperate with the divine intelligences, thousands of souls would be rescued. The Holy Spirit would give devoted workers glimpses of Jesus, that would brace them for every conflict, that would elevate and strengthen them and make them more than conquerors. When two or three are met together to unite their counsel, and to send up their petitions, the promise is for them, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Matthew 7:7.) “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him.” (Luke 11:13.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 271, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 271, 1903, par. 7
I am convinced that the more we dwell upon the high, elevating themes of truth, the more clearly shall we discern what is truth. The Lord has a whole heaven full of blessings for us, and He says, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Then let us cease talking unbelief and in love speak the words of promise. Even when called upon to utter the plainest things, we must speak in a way that will not offend. We must talk faith, and pray in faith, and receive by faith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 157, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 157, 1903, par. 25
My brethren and sisters, plead for the Holy Spirit. God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say, I have done as Thou hast said. I present Thy promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Christ declares, “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” [Mark 11:24.] “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” [John 14:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 173, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 173, 1903, par. 18
Professor Beardslee had a conversation with me. I would have helped him if I could; but I dare not give my opinion of duties for others unless I have the words of counsel from God. As I read the blessed Holy Bible I can speak words from the Book of books and from instruction the Lord has given me to give to those who ask me to help them when they are in difficulty. But I always encourage them by the Word itself and urge them to take everything to God in prayer, pleading the promise, Ask and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find. [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 56, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 56, 1903, par. 3
“Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] To place ourselves in close connection with Christ, by fervent, believing prayer—this is our duty. For our part of the contract we are responsible. For the rest we are to trust the One who knows and understands what will best help us in our endeavors to do His will.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 52, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 52, 1903, par. 7
If every one would do his best, looking to Jesus for instruction, he would receive the fulfilment of the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 151, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 151, 1904, par. 47
There is our power. By living faith we can send up our petitions to God. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] Now we have an open door, and no one can shut it. The devil can try, but we have access to the eternal, and we expect that He will give us the victory.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 293, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, par. 20
We took the train that morning for Battle Creek, changing cars at Springfield, Massachusetts. At Battle Creek, we found several at the station to meet us, and we were given a hearty welcome. We were driven at once to the Sanitarium and were given two of the best rooms in the institution. The next morning I spoke to the patients in the parlor. I had freedom in dwelling upon the simplicity of truth and its great power to transform all who come to Christ in faith. I dwelt upon the precious assurance given to all who follow Christ in humility and trustfulness. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find,” the Saviour declares. [Matthew 7:7.] We need plain, simple, unvarnished truth. This is the only panacea for weary, sin-sick souls. Pure, unvarnished truth is the power of God unto salvation, able to convict and convert souls.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 118, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 118, 1904, par. 13
Do not talk of the faults of others. Take care of your own garden. See that your own heart is cleansed by the power of God. When trouble comes, instead of getting out of patience, instead of fretting and worrying, go to the Lord, and tell Him all about it. Has He not said, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you?” [Matthew 7:7.] Go right to the Lord, and in humility of mind, tell Him about your trouble. Do not go to human friends; for they have all the burdens they can bear. Go to the One who gave His life for you. You have been bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are His. Do not walk in self-sufficiency, thinking that you are capable of guiding yourself aright. “Learn of Me,” Christ says, “For I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 48, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 48, 1904, par. 12
It is our right to have the evidence that our sins are forgiven because we have cast our helpless souls upon Christ. He has said, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] We need positiveness in our faith. In order to have this, we must day by day live in communion with God, that we may know what He is to those who seek Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 193, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 193, 1905, par. 11
Well, we have the promise, “Seek, and ye shall find.” Now, I come to the Lord in my feebleness in my weakness, which I have borne all my life nearly. I come to Him and say, Now, You said it. I do not say, Make me believe it. I would not insult my Lord when He says, “Ask and ye shall receive ... opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] I want to carry out this principle and if I lack it, it is because I do not come right up to believe that God will do just as He said He would. Now, this is what we want. We are here on trial, and we have established institutions, sanitariums. We have established them in various parts of our world.Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Our Covenant Broken
1MR 115.2
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). To place ourselves in close connection with Christ, by fervent, believing prayer,—this is our duty. For our part of the contract we are responsible. For the rest we are to trust the One who knows and understands what will best help us in our endeavors to do His will.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 54, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 54, 1905, par. 4
I well remember how, when we were living in Carroll house, near the water tower, the young men working on the school land would meet together in a large room in this house at half-past five every morning for family worship. As we worshiped God together, we knew that the Holy Spirit was among us. We sought the Lord with the whole heart, and He came very near to us. We presented the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Is not this assurance strong enough? We took this promise with us into the place of prayer, asking the Lord to lead and direct in the work to be done here. Only one year has passed since then, and much has been accomplished.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 192, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 192, 1905, par. 5
Verse 9. Shall we not hear Him? I am ready to hear you. Seek, said Christ,—it is just in harmony with what Christ said, “Ask and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] There are no ifs or ands about it, “Ye shall receive.” Do you do it? Or do you go and tell your neighbor of all your troubles and all your difficulties? Can they help you? You want to be educated that you have got a promise from the Lord God of hosts, and you are going to take that promise and you are going to depend upon it, and you are going to ask, for He has said, “Ye shall receive.” He still goes on to give us the promise threefold. “Seek, and ye shall find ... opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 313, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 313, 1905, par. 7
We cannot please our Saviour more than by having faith in His promises. His mercies can come to you, and your prayers can come to Him. Nothing can break this line of communication. We must learn to bring all perplexities to Jesus Christ, for He will help us. He will listen to our requests. We may come to Him in full assurance of faith, nothing doubting, for He is the living Way. He has consecrated this way with His own blood. We are His purchased possession. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 8, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 8, 1905, par. 10
Sometimes when we think of our sinfulness and our poverty of soul, it seems hardly possible that we may obtain eternal life. But Christ has paid the price of our redemption, and He desires us to have this life. He desires us, as His little children, to come to Him, asking for His blessing and believing that we shall receive it. He says, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] If we should remain on our knees for hours, we could get no stronger evidence than these words contain. Jesus has given us this promise, and if we have faith in His word, we shall believe that He hears our prayers, that His blessing is upon us, and that we are to walk as those who have received His blessing. This is the privilege of every one of us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 117, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 117, 1905, par. 3
For three nights I have slept well, and I feel rested this morning. The Lord is my Helper and my strong Defense. I will put my trust in Him and will not worry. I will be encouraged by the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] I have not lost my courage in the Lord. If the pain will only keep away from my heart, I can bear it and be cheerful in the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 66, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 66, 1905, par. 14
Parents, you have a church in your home, and God demands that you bring into this church the grace of heaven, which is beyond computation, and the power of heaven, which is without measure. You can have this grace and this power if you will. But you must educate yourselves in accordance with your baptismal vows. When you took these vows, you pledged yourself, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, that you would live unto God, and you have no right to break this pledge. The help of the three great powers is placed at your disposal. When in the name of Christ you ask for grace to overcome, it will be given unto you; for the promise is, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Yes, seek God for aid. If you are in perplexity, do not go to your neighbors. Learn to carry your troubles to God. If you seek, you will find; if you knock, it shall be opened unto you. But this means faith, faith, faith. Exercise living faith in Christ, and do not, I beg of you, step aside out of the right way.Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]
Excerpts from the E. G. White Diary
2MR 114.1
Sabbath day was set apart by fasting and prayer. A becoming solemnity rested upon all assembled. We are assured we shall have the victory. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” [Matthew 7:7].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 174, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 174, 1905, par. 15
Heaven is full of blessings. The Lord Jesus is inviting every soul: “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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] A threefold assurance if you will be in earnest to ask, to seek, and to knock. Will you do this?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 115, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 115, 1905, par. 13
The world is filled with sickness. Sin is increasing, especially in the large cities. Death is taking away large numbers. But the great Medical Missionary invites men to come to Him. “Come unto Me,” He says, “and I will give you rest.” [Verse 28.] “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]20LtMs, Lt 115, 1905, par. 14
Our part is, by believing His Word, to find rest in Christ Jesus. His words are spirit and life. In believing them there is rest and peace. “Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Verse 7.] Our prayers will reach the ear of Christ, and He will open unto us the rich treasures of His grace. Through prayer we are brought into communion with the high and holy One who inhabiteth eternity. He opens the door to every one who will knock.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 171, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 171, 1905, par. 7
I hope, my son and daughter, that you will not become discouraged, but that you will put your entire trust in the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I am writing much on the kind of vessels we need to be in order to be fit for the Master’s use. Are we emptied of self? May the Lord give us all grace for his service. It matters not what others may say or think of us, if we do our best, with an eye single to the glory of God. Then we shall wait patiently for His commendation. It is our part to walk humbly with God. He will take charge of every one who will bring his case to Him. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] With this promise, let us come to our best friend. “If any of you 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.” [James 1:5-7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 145, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 145, 1906, par. 20
I receive many, many letters—some of them sent from places thousands of miles away—asking me to pray for certain individuals, that they may have this or that blessing. Often, when reading such letters, I feel a sadness come over my spirit. Why? Because those who have written do not seem to recognize Christ, who has said, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 348, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 348, 1906, par. 6
I have been pleading with the Lord to help His people on every point; for He alone can control the elements of wickedness in Battle Creek. He will shortly bring something to pass. What a privilege it is to be able to bring our perplexities to the Lord in prayer. He has invited us to do this, and why should we not avail ourselves of the privilege? “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] We need much more faith and much more earnest prayer. We need to humble our hearts before God and put all selfishness out of the way. We must have that strength, that wisdom, that cometh from our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. With the hand of faith we must grasp the hand of Infinite Power, and hold on, believing with the whole heart the promises God has given.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 80, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 80, 1906, par. 6
Well, there is help for us in God. The result of every conflict in which we engage depends upon how we manage the matter. If we flee to the stronghold, we may run into it and be safe. By faith we can grasp a hand that will hold us as long as we hold fast. Everything depends upon Him who is invisible, and yet sure—a stronghold in time of trouble. We have a refuge and a present help in every time of need. Troubles we cannot avoid; but God is in every place. Let us hold fast the promise that His presence will be with us if we seek Him in simplicity and with the whole heart. Let not any of us despond. He careth for every soul of His blood-bought heritage. His lovingkindness changeth not. Let us accept the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 300, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 300, 1906, par. 4
I praise our God with heart and soul and voice. Let us ever put our trust in Him and never question or doubt His goodness. We are rich in the possession of so compassionate a Saviour and a Redeemer rich in grace to impart to all who ask in faith. He invites us to come to Him without money and without price. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Why do we not trust fully and entirely in the Lord?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 73, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 73, 1906, par. 16
But the angels of God are grieved at every manifestation of a harsh spirit. God has given to every one a mind and an experience, possibly a higher experience than ours. We need to learn of Christ to be meek and lowly in heart. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 2 [Nos. 97-161]
Item 1
2MR 333.3
Jesus has said, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). It is in proportion to our appreciation of the necessity and value of spiritual things that we seek for their attainment. “Without Me ye can do nothing,” says Jesus, and yet many think that man can do very much in his own finite strength and wisdom. Satan is ready to offer his counsel that he may win souls in the game of life. When men do not feel the need of counseling with their brethren, something is wrong; they trust to their wisdom. It is essential that brethren should counsel together. This I have been compelled to urge for the last forty-five years. Again and again the instruction has been repeated that those who are engaged in important work in the cause of God should not walk in their own ideas, but counsel together. They may regard their plans as without a flaw, but other minds may be enlightened on some points where they cannot see, or may take heed to suggestions and counsels of those who see not the truth. The Lord may have plans of a different order, not after the plans of finite man.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 142, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 142, 1906, par. 35
Now we will say to our friends, Let every one of us seek the Lord. Seek the Lord this morning. I am not going to preach to you any more. I have given you the Word. Now we want to know who it is that is coming right to the point. We call for those who want to be Christians, we want every one that wants to be a Christian to understand that they have got a life insurance policy to gain or they will never enter the kingdom of God. If that life insurance policy is gained, the heaven of heavens will be opened before us. You can have communion with God, you can come to Him with heart and soul and voice, and you are to believe just what Jesus said, “Seek, and ye shall find; ... shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 152, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 152, 1906, par. 3
But in all our perplexities we can only look to the Lord and trust in Him to work out His own plans. Let us see if in some way we can not obtain favor from this brother. If I could, I would help you; but I can scarcely obtain money enough to carry forward my own work. There is one source of help ever open to us: We can pray. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 312, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 312, 1906, par. 3
O I feel so sorry for you. I will continue to pray that the blessing of God may rest upon you. He will not leave you comfortless. This world is of but little account; but, my dear brother and sister, Jesus says, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] I plead this promise in your behalf.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 46, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, par. 4
We greatly need the power of God. If we humble ourselves under His mighty hand, we shall realize the presence of the Lord of hosts. We need less of human devising and much more of the divine counsel. In the name of the Lord, we are to come to Him as His little children. “Ask, and ye shall receive,” He says, “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] May we not cultivate the art of taking God at His word? Faith, living, active faith will do wonderful things.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 24, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, par. 6
Brother Daniells, draw nigh to God; tell your people to draw nigh to God. Let every soul claim the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” [1 John 5:4.] We need to hang our helpless souls on God, trusting Him as little children trust their parents.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 177, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 177, 1907, par. 24
Now, we want that all should realize in this sanitarium that angels are round about us. We want to realize that there is growth that is to be expected of every one. We are to be learners so that we shall escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. That is what He wants us all to learn here, and we may learn it as little children. He call us His little children, and He tells us to be kind to one another. He tells us to be patient. He tells us the way that we may stand on vantage ground. We can be overcoming temptations step by step. Then what? Pray, says Christ. Pray. “Ask, and ye shall receive. Seek ... knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] We want to claim these promises that belong to us. We want to claim them as our property, and we want to be continually growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 180, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 180, 1907, par. 27
Now Christ declares that He came to be our example, and He says, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you,” etc. [Matthew 7:7.] Now we want to see men that have had some experience in this work to understand ye are laborers together with God. You may take yourself in your own hands, you may have a very high estimate of yourself, but it is not self that we want. What we want is to see minds that are assimilated to the mind of Christ, that are looking to see how to lift up the fallen.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 340, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, par. 5
“And it came to pass as Christ was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, one of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” [Luke 11:1.] The prayer that Christ gave to His disciples in answer to this request is not made in high-flown language, but expresses in simple words the necessities of the soul. It is short and deals directly with the daily needs. Every soul has the privilege of stating to the Lord his own special necessities and to offer his individual thanksgiving for the blessings that he daily receives. But the many long and spiritless prayers that are offered to God, instead of being a joy to Him, are a burden. We need, O so much, clean, converted hearts. We need to have our faith strengthened. “Ask, and ye shall receive,” the Saviour promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] We need to educate ourselves to trust in this Word and to bring the light and grace of Christ into all our works. We need to take hold of Christ and to retain our hold of Him until we know that the power of His transforming grace is manifested in us. We must have faith in Christ if we would reflect the divine character.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 29, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 29, 1907, par. 4
Human help is feeble. But we may unite in seeking help and favor from Him who has said: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Divine power is infallible. Then let us come to God, pleading for the guidance of His Holy Spirit. Let our united prayers ascend to the throne of grace.Our Father Cares
God’s Eternal Pledge, August 12
OFC 236.2
God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: “I have done as Thou hast said. I present Thy promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you’ (Matthew 7:7).” ...Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 115, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 115, 1907, par. 10
We cannot heal. We cannot change the diseased conditions of the body. But it is our part, as medical missionaries, as workers together with God, to use the means that He has provided. Then we should pray that God will bless these agencies. We do believe in a God; we believe in a God who hears and answers prayer. He has said, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 258, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 258, 1908, par. 13
For some time I myself had been afflicted with pain in my right hip. As I prayed for Sister McKee, I did not mention myself as in need of healing. But when I claimed the promise for her, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find” [Matthew 7:7], I felt, as I have felt many times when praying for the sick, the rich blessing of God come upon me. The stiffness and pain left my limb, and I was blessed as verily as was Sister McKee, for whom our prayers were offered.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 37, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 37, 1908, par. 13
We may constantly seek the joy of His presence. We need not be all the time upon our knees in prayer, but we may be constantly asking for His grace, even when we are walking on the streets or when we are engaged in our ordinary daily duties. We may constantly keep the mind ascending to Christ, and He will freely impart to us of His grace; for He Himself has said, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 21, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, par. 4
I was instructed that a deeper work must be carried on in the hearts of those who have assembled here to worship God. We cannot afford during this meeting to have a cheap experience; we cannot afford to speak idle words; we cannot afford to lose the spirit of intercession that God will let His blessing rest upon us in rich measure. Let us at this meeting make a business of seeking the Lord. Wherever we are, even if we are walking the streets, we can lift up heart and mind and soul to Him who bids us, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Let us bring these three promises to the Lord, saying, “Lord, here I am in this great assembly; keep me from doing anything that will make a wrong impression on the people.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 154, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 154, 1909, par. 2
I feel intensely the necessity of presenting the truth in its simplicity. I believe that the earnest, simple prayers that I offer up to God will be answered; for He has promised, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Why should we not all believe the Word of the Lord? If we will but take Him at His word, what a degree of blessing will be ours.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 132, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, par. 13
Now I am thankful, Brother Paulson, that we have a mighty God, the One that was crucified for us, who gave His life for us, that His light is upon us, and He said, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Now we will trust Him and believe that He is our Saviour today, and we want to put our trust in Him this very day. We want to believe that He has not forsaken the earth nor forsaken His people, that He makes ample provision that His people may have attention and be cared for, and the physicians and helpers and those that take care of the sick, understand what they are about. In this provision we are to be very grateful to God for His goodness and mercy and love to us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 80, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, par. 1
I was glad to receive your letter dated August 20, 1910. I am made sad as I read that your wife has had a severe illness. She had, you tell me, been sick for one month at the date of your letter. May the Lord bless her and heal her and graciously reveal to her His power, and may her voice be heard in the assembly of God’s people. Christ is our healing power. Let faith take hold of the promise and claim the assurance, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Do not give up the battle to the enemy. Do not let go the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] “Faith is the substance of the things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] I am grateful to our heavenly Father for His wonderful goodness to us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 78, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 78, 1912, par. 3
A great work of soulsaving is to be carried forward in a sensible, persevering manner in the homes of our own people. Upon fathers and mothers rests the great responsibility of this work. Let parents now repent of their past neglect and, taking up the work that God is pointing out should be done, do it with earnestness and diligence. Parents are to labor disinterestedly for their children. How much these youth and children need to experience the converting power of God! Their spirit of worldliness and love of self-indulgence needs to be overcome. They need to prove the efficacy of the atoning blood of Christ. Christ will save to the uttermost all who will come unto God by Him. He will receive them if they will come in repentance and faith. “Ask, and ye shall receive,” the Saviour declares; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 25, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 25, 1911, par. 20
The Son of God suffered the death of the cross that you might have eternal life. But there are conditions with which you must comply. The Saviour says, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [7:7.] Here is the Word of God; search its pages, for this is that which testifies of Him who declares, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 128, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, par. 9
I am instructed that our plans are to enlarge and expand. Stand by your post. Faithfully discharge every known duty, large and small. Then trust in God, who sees and knows all things. As you read the Word of God, open your heart to its lessons. Enlarge your plans as you are directed by the Holy Spirit. Do not crowd in too many things at once, but move as the Lord directs, always acknowledging the grace of God. Speak of the knowledge received, and do not neglect prayer. “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.]Our Father Cares
Heavenly Guarantee, September 8
OFC 263.1
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Matthew 7:7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 38, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, par. 7
We must simply trust in God. Miss what you may in human advantages, but stand through faith in God, who offers complete pardon. The promise is, “Seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] Believe in God fully. May the heart believe, and receive, and rejoice.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 60, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 60, 1911, par. 1
It is possible to grasp the promise. “Ask,” says our Lord, “and it shall be given you.” [Matthew 7:7.] There must be a receiving faith. Lay hold on the words spoken in the Scripture, and do not let go. Press home the faith you have received in decided, forcible testimony, and the blessing is yours, for thus God saith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 63, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 63, 1910, par. 11
There is no human power that is reliable and no human being that you should depend on to lead and guide you with unerring judgement. But the Lord reads all hearts. Let there be a constant, prayerful life, that you shall not offend the Lord Jesus by thought or word or deed. That which you need now is such confidence in the Lord Jesus that you can confide all the secrets of your soul to Him. He has invited your confidence; you can present your case before Him, and rest it there, and continue to ask that you may receive. Do not cease asking for large supplies. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. Praise the Lord. Christ is our Example. He devoted the whole of His sacred life to save the perishing world. The impartation of the Holy Spirit after His ascension was after the disciples had devoted themselves to the Lord in most earnest prayer for ten days, and the Spirit of God came down upon the company as Christ had promised, like a mighty, rushing wind, filling the whole house where they were assembled, and it was upon this special occasion that the large numbers of the people were [converted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 42, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, par. 5
I am instructed that every believer must watch unto prayer, lest he fails in the Christian-life battle. Every soul must daily seek the Lord with full purpose of heart—morning, noon, and night—and let the mind dwell upon the Word of God, to understand His requirements. The one all-important matter is to serve the Lord with full purpose of heart and seek to become the Lord’s, heart and mind. All who come to the Saviour for counsel will receive the very help they need, if they will come in humility and with assurance cling to that promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 2, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, par. 11
I tell Willie that I do not know as I shall be able to attend the important meetings that are soon to be held in Mountain View, but the Lord can strengthen me at the right time. At times when I lie awake in the night, I pray, and lay hold by faith of the words, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 11, 1913
25LtMs, Lt 11, 1913, par. 1
Never was there a time when the Lord was not filled with compassion for any soul who turns to Him in repentance, humbling himself and confessing his mistakes. There is a hand stretched out to save. Let your faith take hold understandingly and determinedly. Relief will come. Be not discouraged. Press your way to the receiving of the blessing. “Ask, and it shall be given unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Offer your petitions in simplicity, and believe that you receive the things that you so much need.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 79, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 79, 1912, par. 16
The Lord knows how to take care of His afflicted ones. I want to praise the Lord and to tell of His grace and marvelous goodness, and I want every one of you to trust in my Saviour. I am glad that the Lord has proved me, and I hope that I shall hold fast to the end. I want to tell you that the Lord is gracious. He has said, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Our High Calling
What Is Faith? April 21
OHC 117.4
“Ask, and it shall be given you” (Matthew 7:7) is the promise. Our part is to rest on the Word with unwavering faith, believing that God will do according to His promise. Let faith cut its way through the shadow of the enemy. When a questioning doubt arises, go to Christ and let the soul be encouraged by communion with Him. The redemption He has purchased for us is complete. The offering He made was plenteous and without stint. Heaven has a never-failing supply of help for all who are needy.50Letter 42, 1900.Prayer
Chapter 11—Answered Prayer
Pr 101.3
Our great need is itself an argument and pleads most eloquently in our behalf. But the Lord is to be sought unto to do these things for us. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” And “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Matthew 7:7; Romans 8:32.Prayer
Chapter 29—The Privilege of Prayer
Pr 282.2
Our great need is itself an argument and pleads most eloquently in our behalf. But the Lord is to be sought unto to do these things for us. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” And “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Matthew 7:7; Romans 8:32.Reflecting Christ
Father as Priest; Mother as Teacher, June 13
RC 178.4
When in the name of Christ you ask for grace to overcome, it will be given unto you; for the promise is “Ask, and it shall be given you” (Matthew 7:7). Yes, seek God for aid. If you are in perplexity, do not go to your neighbors. Learn to carry your troubles to God. If you seek you will find; if you knock, it shall be opened unto you. But this means faith, faith, faith. Exercise living faith in Christ....Counsels for the Church
The Preparation of Children for Baptism
CCh 297.3
Candidates who have grown to manhood and womanhood should understand their duty better than do the younger ones; but the pastor of the church has a duty to do for these souls. Have they wrong habits and practices? It is the duty of the pastor to have special meetings with them. Give them Bible readings, converse and pray with them, and plainly show the claims of the Lord upon them. Read to them the teaching of the Bible in regard to conversion. Show what is the fruit of conversion, the evidence that they love God. Show that true conversion is a change of heart, of thoughts and purposes. Evil habits are to be given up. The sins of evil-speaking, of jealousy, of disobedience, are to be put away. A warfare must be waged against every evil trait of character. Then the believing one can understandingly take to himself the promise: “Ask, and it shall be given you.” Matthew 7:7.544Testimonies for the Church 6:91-99Selected Messages Book 2
Meditations Through Days of Affliction
2SM 235.3
June 23, 1892—Another night has passed. I slept only three hours. I was not in so much pain as usual, but was restless and nervous. After lying awake for some time, trying to sleep, I gave up the effort, and directed my whole attention to seeking the Lord. How precious to me was the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). I prayed most earnestly to the Lord for comfort and peace, which the Lord Jesus alone can give. I want the blessing of the Lord, so that, while suffering pain, I shall not lose self-control. I dare not trust in self for one moment.Selected Messages Book 2
Messages to Others Whose Lives Would Soon Close
2SM 256.2
Oh, I feel so sorry for you. I will continue to pray that the blessing of God may rest upon you. He will not leave you comfortless. This world is of but little account, but, my dear brother and sister, Jesus says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). I plead this promise in your behalf.…Steps to Christ
Chapter 11—The Privilege of Prayer
SC 95.2
Our great need is itself an argument and pleads most eloquently in our behalf. But the Lord is to be sought unto to do these things for us. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” And “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Matthew 7:7; Romans 8:32.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 3—The Power Promised
8T 23.1
My brethren and sisters, plead for the Holy Spirit. God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: “I have done as Thou hast said, I present Thy promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.’” Christ declares: “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” Matthew 7:7; Mark 11:24; 14:13.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
Chapter 35—To the Workers in Southern California
9T 278.4
Every soul has the privilege of stating to the Lord his own special necessities and to offer his individual thanksgiving for the blessings that he daily receives. But the many long and spiritless, faithless prayers that are offered to God, instead of being a joy to Him, are a burden. We need, oh, so much! clean, converted hearts. We need to have our faith strengthened. “Ask, and it shall be given you,” the Saviour promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. We need to educate ourselves to trust in this word and to bring the light and grace of Christ into all our works. We need to take hold of Christ and to retain our hold of Him until we know that the power of His transforming grace is manifested in us. We must have faith in Christ if we would reflect the divine character.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Preparation for Baptism
6T 95.1
The Pastor’s Work. Candidates who have grown to manhood and womanhood should understand their duty better than do the younger ones; but the pastor of the church has a duty to do for these souls. Have they wrong habits and practices? It is the duty of the pastor to have special meetings with them. Give them Bible readings, converse and pray with them, and plainly show the claims of the Lord upon them. Read to them the teaching of the Bible in regard to conversion. Show what is the fruit of conversion, the evidence that they love God. Show that true conversion is a change of heart, of thoughts and purposes. Evil habits are to be given up. The sins of evil-speaking, of jealousy, of disobedience, are to be put away. A warfare must be waged against every evil trait of character. Then the believing one can understandingly take to himself the promise: “Ask, and it shall be given you.” Matthew 7:7.That I May Know Him
Redeemed by Christ’s Blood, February 26
TMK 63.3
God will not occupy a divided heart or reign from a divided throne. Every rival that holds the affections and diverts them from the God of love must be dethroned. The Lord demands all that there is of us, and there must be no reserve. Christ has purchased us, we are His heritage, and we are to be honored by being co-laborers with Jesus Christ. Wear the yoke with Christ, and daily walk with God. How shall we do this? By laying hold upon the help which God has provided. The Lord has said, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7).33Manuscript 60, 1894.The Retirement Years
When Sleep Will Not Come, Pray
RY 124.3
June 23, 1892. Another night has passed. I slept only three hours. I was not in so much pain as usual, but was restless and nervous. After lying awake for some time, trying to sleep, I gave up the effort, and directed my whole attention to seeking the Lord. How precious to me was the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). I prayed most earnestly to the Lord for comfort and peace, which the Lord Jesus alone can give. I want the blessing of the Lord, so that, while suffering pain, I shall not lose self-control. I dare not trust in self for one moment.—Selected Messages 2:235.Darkness Before Dawn
Hooks on which to Hang Doubts
DD 12.1
Satan can present a counterfeit so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the truth; but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires, at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the truth and the “Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” John 1:9. The Spirit of truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is declared: “Seek, and ye shall find.” “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” Matthew 7:7; John 7:17.The Retirement Years
Comfort to a Minister Dying of Cancer
RY 151.3
Oh, I feel so sorry for you. I will continue to pray that the blessing of God may rest upon you. He will not leave you comfortless. This world is of but little account, but, my dear brother and sister, Jesus says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). I plead this promise in your behalf....The Story of Jesus
Chapter 10—Teachings of Christ
SJ 61.4
God is more willing to give us His Spirit than parents are to give good things to their children. His promise is, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” Luke 11:9; Matthew 7:7. All that hunger and thirst after righteousness “shall be filled.”The Upward Look
Angel Companions, February 23
UL 68.3
Satanic agencies are ever warring for the mastery over human minds. But the angels of God are constantly at work, strengthening the weak hands and confirming the feeble knees of all who call upon God for help. The promise to every child of God is, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him than parents are to give good gifts to their children. Then ask; believe what God has said. He will surely fulfill His word. Say from the heart, “My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever” (Psalm 73:26). The victory must be gained day by day. As followers of Christ we are to stand on vantage ground before the world as Christ’s representatives. Let us then engage in this part of the Christian warfare, determinedly overcoming every weakness of character....The Upward Look
Take the Cup of Salvation, November 10
UL 328.2
You speak in your letter of discouragement. I felt to sympathize with you and would point you to the dear Saviour, the Burden Bearer. He will receive you, if you seek Him. “Ask, and it shall be given you,” are the words which fell from His divine lips. “Seek, and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). Claim the promise as yours. Do not seek to make yourself better and keep your eyes upon yourself, worrying and doubting the goodness and mercy of God.This Day With God
Heavenly Guarantee, April 5
TDG 104.1
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Matthew 7:7.This Day With God
Complete Commitment, April 29
TDG 128.6
The one all-important matter is to serve the Lord with full purpose of heart, and seek to become the Lord’s, heart and mind. All who come to the Saviour for counsel will receive the very help they need, if they will come in humility, and with assurance cling to that promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7)....This Day With God
Ye Are God’s Instruments, October 1
TDG 283.2
Christ came to the earth to present a true and exalted standard. Brief as was the period of His public ministry, He accomplished the work He came to do. How impressive were the truths He taught, how complete His lifework! What spiritual food He daily imparted as He presented the bread of life to thousands of hungry souls. His life was a living ministry of the Word. He was the Light of the world, pointing to men the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He was its food, the Bread of life. He promised nothing that He did not perform. “Ask,” He said, “and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7).This Day With God
The Power of Transforming Grace, October 3
TDG 285.2
Every soul has the privilege of stating to the Lord his own special necessities and to offer his individual thanksgiving for the blessings that he daily receives. But the many long and spiritless faithless prayers that are offered to God instead of being a joy to Him, are a burden. We need, O, so much, clean, converted hearts. We need to have our faith strengthened daily. “Ask, and it shall be given you,” the Saviour promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). We need to educate ourselves to trust in this word, and to bring the light and grace of Christ into all our works. We need to take hold of Christ, and to retain our hold of Him until we know that the power of His transforming grace is manifested in us. We must have faith in Christ if we would reflect the divine character.This Day With God
Flickering Lights, December 21
TDG 364.5
Jesus lives as your Advocate, your great High Priest. He is your representative before the Father in the courts of heaven. His mediation secures you everything that your faith claims. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). Who has said it? The Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. He is your Saviour. Never will He fail to prove true to His word. Never will He falsify Himself. God hath promised. Let faith claim the promise.—Manuscript 24, December 21, 1889, diary.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”—Matthew 7:7.
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”—Matthew 7:7.
Evangelism
Baptism and Church Membership
Ev 311.1
Preparing Young People for Baptism—Candidates who have grown to manhood and womanhood should understand their duty better than do the younger ones; but the pastor of the church has a duty to do for these souls. Have they wrong habits and practices? It is the duty of the pastor to have special meetings with them. Give them Bible readings, converse and pray with them, and plainly show the claims of the Lord upon them. Read to them the teaching of the Bible in regard to conversion. Show what is the fruit of conversion, the evidence that they love God. Show that true conversion is a change of heart, of thoughts and purposes. Evil habits are to be given up. The sins of evil-speaking, of jealousy, of disobedience, are to be put away. A warfare must be waged against every evil trait of character. Then the believing one can understandingly take to himself the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” Matthew 7:7.—Testimonies For The Church 6:95 (1900).Ye Shall Receive Power
Opening the Heart, October 9
YRP 291.4
Jesus has said, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7). It is in proportion to our appreciation of the necessity and value of spiritual things that we seek for their attainment. “Without me ye can do nothing,” says Jesus, and yet many think that man can do very much in his own finite strength and wisdom. Satan is ready to offer his counsel that he may win souls in the game of life.Ye Shall Receive Power
A Prayer in Behalf of God’s People, October 31
YRP 313.2
Heavenly Father, Thou hast said, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you” (Matthew 7:7) . Heavenly Father, we need Thy Holy Spirit. We do not want to work ourselves, only as we work in unity with God. We want to be in a position where the Holy Spirit of God shall be upon us with its reviving, sanctifying power. Wilt Thou manifest Thyself unto us this very morning! Wilt Thou sweep away every mist and every cloud of darkness!Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
The Pastor’s Work
2TT 392.3
Candidates who have grown to manhood and womanhood should understand their duty better than do the younger ones; but the pastor of the church has a duty to do for these souls. Have they wrong habits and practices? It is the duty of the pastor to have special meeting with them. Give them Bible readings, converse and pray with them, and plainly show the claims of the Lord upon them. Read to them the teaching of the Bible in regard to conversion. Show what is the fruit of conversion, the evidence that they love God. Show that true conversion is a change of heart, of thoughts and purposes. Evil habits are to be given up. The sins of evilspeaking, of jealousy, of disobedience, are to be put away. A warfare must be waged against every evil trait of character. Then the believing one can understandingly take to himself the promise: “Ask, and it shall be given you.” Matthew 7:7.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Even to the End
3TT 213.2
My brethren and sisters, plead for the Holy Spirit. God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: “I have done as Thou hast said. I present Thy promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.’” Christ declares: “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” Matthew 7:7; Mark 11:24; John 14:13.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Put Your Trust in God
3TT 425.3
Every soul has the privilege of stating to the Lord his own special necessities and to offer his individual thanksgiving for the blessings that he daily receives. But the many long and spiritless, faithless prayers that are offered to God, instead of being a joy to Him, are a burden. We need, oh, so much! clean, converted hearts. We need to have our faith strengthened. “Ask, and it shall be given you,” the Saviour promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. We need to educate ourselves to trust in this word and to bring the light and grace of Christ into all our works. We need to take hold of Christ and to retain our hold of Him until we know that the power of His transforming grace is manifested in us. We must have faith in Christ if we would reflect the divine character.Homeward Bound
The Key in the Hand of Faith, May 2
HB 143.5
Our great need is itself an argument and pleads most eloquently in our behalf. But the Lord is to be sought unto to do these things for us. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” And “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” (Matthew 7:7; Romans 8:32.)Radiant Religion
God Delights in the Prayer of the Upright, February 9
RRe 42.2
Every soul has the privilege of stating to the Lord his own special necessities, and to offer his individual thanksgiving for the blessings that he daily receives. But the many long and spiritless, faithless prayers that are offered to God, instead of being a joy to Him, are a burden. We need, O so much! clean, converted hearts. We need to have our faith strengthened. ‘“Ask, and it shall be given you,” the Saviour promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. We need to educate ourselves to trust in this word, and to bring the light and grace of Christ into all our works. We need to take hold of Christ, and to retain our hold of Him until we know that the power of His transforming grace is manifested in us.—Testimonies for the Church 9:279.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 22, 1870
2LtMs, Lt 22, 1870, par. 10
Edson, you may be troubled in the field and become irritated. Don’t carry that trouble over the threshold of the door, not for even once. It may cost you an effort to efface all traces of irritation, and wear a smile, but do it, my son, do it, by all means. You will be repaid fourfold, for the spirit you manifest, be it sunshine or shadow, will be reflected back upon you again. If you both make God your trust and go to Him in humility, He will help you and render you the aid you desire. “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 36, 1875
2LtMs, Lt 36, 1875, par. 4
You speak in your letter of discouragement. I felt to sympathize with you and would point you to the dear Saviour, the Burden-bearer. He will receive you if you seek Him. Ask and ye shall receive, are the words which fell from His divine lips. “Seek, and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Claim the promise as yours. Do not seek to make yourself better and keep your eyes upon yourself, worrying and doubting the goodness and mercy of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 28, 1876
3LtMs, Lt 28, 1876, par. 4
Keep up good courage and cling to the Mighty One. He is your tower of strength. Oh, how weak, how inefficient we are without the help of God. Watch unto prayer were the words Jesus gave to His disciples, most applicable to Christians now. Dear children, take time to pray and nothing will be lost in so doing. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. Jesus will be your burden-bearer; do not carry your own burdens or your own perplexities. Jesus loves us. We know He does with an unchangeable love. May every emotion of the soul respond to this matchless love which Christ has revealed in our behalf.God’s Amazing Grace
God’s Eternal Pledge, May 29
AG 157.2
God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands, say: “I have done as Thou hast said. I present Thy promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you’ (Matthew 7:7).” ...Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 24, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 24, 1885, par. 7
Sabbath day was set apart by fasting and prayer. A becoming solemnity rested upon all assembled. We are assured we shall have the victory. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 31, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 31, 1888, par. 25
It is just as convenient and essential for you to pray three times a day as it was for Daniel. Set the example at home before your workmen that prayer is the life of the soul, the very foundation of spiritual growth. Go to the little church of believers, tell them we must keep the communication open between God and our souls. Tell them if they will find heart and voice to pray, God will find answers to their prayers. Neglect not your religious duties. Tell the church, “We must pray; we must seek if we would find; we must knock if the door is opened.” [Matthew 7:7.] If there are no more than six assembled, there are enough to claim the promise. But there are more than six present: the Father, and the Son, and holy angels are there to admire your faith, your steadfast principles, and there you may have the pouring out of His Holy Spirit. God has rich blessings in store for you when you will not only bring all the tithes but all the time and strength of brain, bone, and muscle to give to His services. Then you will walk in the light; then you will triumph in God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 81, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 81, 1887, par. 10
I am of good courage. I feel deeply the need to live moment by moment and allow nothing to come in to make me forget God and His great love for fallen man. I want no will of my own in anything. I want constant communion with God. Everything else but Jesus seems of but little value. God in His promises distinctly pledges Himself to answer prayer. He invites us to “ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. Precious promise. I think I love Jesus more and more. O how much we need to cultivate faith. What a privilege that we sinful mortals have the privilege of speaking with God. In the closet, when walking the streets, when engaged in labor, our hearts can be ascending to God for counsel, our souls drawn out after God, a breath from heaven. All these soul longings God will hear. All our troubles we may take to God. His hand of infinite love is moved to supply our needs. How thankful I am that we have only one day to live at a time. One day to keep our souls stayed upon, one day to watch, one day to progress in the spiritual life, and thus our days may be fruitful, precious days to us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 24, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 24, 1889, par. 37
Jesus lives as your Advocate, your great High Priest. He is your representative before the Father in the courts of heaven. His mediation secures you everything that your faith claims. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Who has said it? The Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. He is your Saviour. Never will He fail to prove true to His Word. Never will He falsify Himself. God hath promised. Let faith claim the promise.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 53, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 53, 1890, par. 9
This day was devoted in the early morning, at half past four o’clock, to prayer for the Lord to bless me and give me physical strength and mental clearness and clear spiritual discernment. I believe the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] I shall take the Lord Jesus at His word.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 50, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 50, 1890, par. 3
I have not slept since three o’clock. I arose at four and sent earnest supplications to heaven for light and for grace to do the will of my heavenly Father. I shall surely receive for I have the pledged word of Him whom I cannot doubt, who has said, “Ask and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] There has nothing failed me of all the promises which the Lord has made. He has been better unto me than my fears. I will not allow doubt to shroud my soul. I will cherish faith. I will make God my stronghold in every time of trouble. What should I do without Jesus? What could I do if left to my own ignorance and feebleness? But thank the Lord, I am not! I realize that special assistance and special blessings come to me when I am suffering with infirmities, and I testify that the Lord is my strong tower. Unto Him I run and am safe.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 19, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 19, 1892, par. 27
Another long, trying night has nearly passed. Daylight will soon come. I slept well during the first part of the night, but when I awoke, the nervous pain came on once more so severely that I could scarcely compose myself to pray intelligently. After a time the nervousness passed away, and I prayed most earnestly to my heavenly Father. I presented before Him the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Even in my pain I can rejoice in the Lord, and this gives me peace. Christ is my personal Saviour. He has pledged His word to accomplish the salvation of all who believe in Him, and He will verify His promise.7LtMs, Ms 19, 1892, par. 47
Another night has passed. I slept only three hours. I was not in so much pain as usual, but was restless and nervous. After lying awake for some time, trying to sleep, I gave up the effort and directed my whole attention to seeking the Lord. How precious to me was the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] I prayed most earnestly to the Lord for comfort and peace, which the Lord Jesus alone can give. I want the blessing of the Lord, so that, while suffering pain, I shall not lose self-control. I dare not trust in self for one moment.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 33, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 33, 1892, par. 10
Another long, trying night has nearly passed. Daylight will soon come. I slept well during the first part of the night, but when I awoke, the nervous pain came on once more so severely that I could scarcely compose myself to pray intelligently. After a time the nervousness passed away, and I prayed most earnestly to my heavenly Father. I presented before Him the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. Even in my pain I can rejoice in the Lord, and this gives me peace. Christ is my personal Saviour. He has pledged His word to accomplish the salvation of all who believe in Him, and He will verify His promise.7LtMs, Ms 33, 1892, par. 34
Another night has passed. I slept only three hours. I was not in so much pain as usual, but was restless and nervous. After lying awake for some time, trying to sleep, I gave up the effort and directed my whole attention to seeking the Lord. How precious to me was the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Matthew 7:7. I prayed most earnestly to the Lord for comfort and peace, which the Lord Jesus alone can give. I want the blessing of the Lord, so that, while suffering pain, I shall not lose self-control. I dare not trust in self for one moment.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 13, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 13, 1893, par. 16
Consecrate yourself every day. The Lord can make you free, and if you keep praying you will find that you will not need such an abundance of holidays. Your moral taste will become refined, elevated, and ennobled. You will have the angels of God to cooperate with you. You can repeat the promise, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] When you make an entire surrender to God you shall have precious, clean, profitable thoughts. And when you come to one whom you wish to save, the Spirit of God gives you the right words to say, and the heart is reached. We feel an intense interest to help souls, and Satan has an intense interest to ruin them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 88, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 88, 1893, par. 22
There were more attended the morning meeting than we expected. I spoke to them from (Matthew 7:7): “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” We had several good testimonies from our brethren and sisters.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 22, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 22, 1893, par. 2
Not a groan or mourn escaped my lips, not muscle or nerve quivered through the operation; why, I had prayed about this matter, and believing the Lord meant just what He said, when He said, “Ask and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] I relied on the Word that is sure and never failing. “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it.” [John 14:13, 14.] Precious words of assurance. Certainly if I ever needed to trust in God it was at this time. I took nothing to stupefy me, and even not anything to deaden the gums, knowing that reaction would be more severe than if left in their natural state.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 117, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 117, 1893, par. 2
She said she must leave at two o’clock sharp p.m. At about ten I was in the chair and in a short time the teeth were not where they once were, but scattered in every direction. Not a muscle or nerve quivered through the operation; not a groan or moan escaped my lips. Why, I had prayed about this matter, believing the Lord meant just what He said, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] I relied on the Word that is sure and never failing. “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it.” [John 14:13, 14.] Precious words of assurance! Certainly if I ever needed to trust in God it was at this time. I took nothing to stupefy me and not even anything to deaden the gums, knowing that reaction would be more severe than if left in their natural state.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 30, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 30, 1893, par. 27
Encourage a spirit of prayer. We are exhorted to be “praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance.” [Ephesians 6:18.] What is here meant by perseverance? It is this: If you think the Lord has not heard your prayers, do not become discouraged, but present to Him His promises, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you!” [Matthew 7:7.] And as you trust fully in God, He will show Himself a prayer-hearing and a prayer-answering God. Examine your own selves, whether ye be in the faith of present truth and in the love of God. Look and see if in anything you are deficient in your manifest duty to your Creator.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 49, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 49, 1894, par. 12
He says, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Now you can rely upon that promise, or you can be in such unbelief that if God should bless you ever so much, you would not recognize it as a blessing from God, for you do not expect it. Is it not best for us to take God at His word? His long human arm has encircled the race, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the infinite. Here is man, fallen, sinful.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.In Heavenly Places
Prayer Moves Heaven, March 9
HP 75.1
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Matthew 7:7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 42, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 42, 1895, par. 5
Christ, through the operation of the Spirit, had His abiding place in each individual soul, and grace and peace were multiplied through the knowledge of the fact that they had a risen Saviour who made an atonement for every one who came to Him by faith. We have this same Saviour, and He says, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find: knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] “Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye ask anything in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:12-15.] If we would experience the love of Christ we must be obedient children, keeping company with Jesus. We may walk in love, having His abiding presence to guide, direct and control.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 119, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 119, 1896, par. 4
Now, nearly a year afterwards, this eye and cheekbone have pained me so that I have been alarmed. For two weeks in June I suffered much. But I prayed most earnestly to the One who has said, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] The Lord has heard my prayer ascending to Him day and night, especially in the night season, and His restoring power has been realized by me. My eye is much improved; the pain has left the cheekbone: and I am very thankful to the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 11, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, par. 8
By the power of the Holy Spirit, we may do the works of Christ. “If any man lack wisdom,” He says again, “Let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith.” [James 1:5, 6.] That is the only condition. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Though we are transgressors of the law of God, yet if we repent in faith, God can work through us the works of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 17, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, par. 11
Advice is asked of those in Battle Creek regarding matters which could just as well be settled by men on the ground, if they would seek the Lord, and which ought to have been done within their own borders. The Lord declares he is nigh all that call upon Him with a sincere heart. Said Christ, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] This promise is made doubly and trebly sure. There is no failure with God. Today men who are presidents of conferences are less efficient and strong and able than they should be, because they place man where God should be, and they receive only that which man can give them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 9, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, par. 7
In the past, Christ had been approached through forms and ceremonies, but now He was upon the earth, calling attention directly to Himself, presenting a spiritual priesthood, and placing the sinful human agent at the footstool of mercy. “Ask, and it shall be given you,” He promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] “If ye ask anything in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.” “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me ... and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” [John 14:14, 15, 21.] “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 100, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 100, 1896, par. 15
“Where two or three are agreed together,” this Word declares, “as touching anything they shall ask in the name of Jesus, it shall be done for them.” [Matthew 18:19, 20.] “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Bow down before God. With reverential awe approach the throne of grace. Present the Word of God which is not Yea and Nay, but Yea and Amen in Christ Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 87, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 87, 1897, par. 1
We were thankful to our heavenly Father to receive the good news through the letter sent to Elder Haskell, of the favorable turn in the sickness of Herbert. We have presented your case, Herbert, in earnest prayer. Jesus the Restorer often sought the Lord in prayer, and have not we the assurance, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”? [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 130, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 130, 1897, par. 2
“Come unto me,” Christ says, “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 11:28-30.] All who depend upon the Lord Jesus Christ, who seek Him with their whole heart, will find in Him a very present help in time of trouble, and will be shown their duty. The Lord is much nearer to those who desire to know His will than are those in Battle Creek, or in the next neighborhood. He Himself declares, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” [Matthew 21:22.]In Heavenly Places
The Promise Is for Us, November 23
HP 334.5
My brethren and sisters, plead for the Holy Spirit. God stands back of every promise He has made. With your Bibles in your hands say, “I have done as Thou hast said. I present Thy promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you’” (Matthew 7:7). Christ declares, “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them” (Mark 11:24). “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do ...” (John 14:13).36The Review and Herald, April 30, 1908.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 33, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 33, 1898, par. 14
In this parable and the parable of the man rising at midnight to supply his friend’s necessity, that the friend might minister to a needy, wayfaring man, we are taught that God hears our prayers. Too often we think that our petitions are not entering into His ear, and we encourage unbelief, and distrust God, when we should claim the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and ye shall find: Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Let us draw the instruction that we should from these parables. The Lord is our Judge; the Lord is our Lawgiver. We give evidence of the strong ground of our confidence in God by our importunate prayer, combined with good works. But faith without works is dead, being alone.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 112, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 112, 1898, par. 4
We were keenly disappointed that Brother John Wessels did not come, for, from the light given me, the Lord had appointed this. But we can say no more now. All that has passed away, and we shall now watch and pray and wait, and trust God’s Word. He has promised, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 15, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 15, 1898, par. 12
There is a certain experience which we are to gain in the knowledge of where we stand in the sight of God. Our petitions are to ascend to our heavenly Father, that we may know Him whom to know aright is life eternal. Then let time be given to prayer. “Ask, and it shall be given unto you,” Christ said; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] The Lord represents Himself as waiting to hear the prayer of the contrite soul, and to respond. Isaiah 58:9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 125, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 125, 1898, par. 6
Christ invites your confidence. Of yourself you can do nothing. You cannot be kind, true, courteous, unselfish, without the Holy Spirit’s help. And when you feel your need of help, and ask in faith, Christ says, “Ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] If you ask God to make you like Christ in character, and rise from your knees to scold, to fret, or to censure others, Christ cannot answer your prayer, for you work directly contrary to it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 14, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 14, 1899, par. 18
The promise is, Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. [Matthew 7:7.] We are to stand as minute men, ready to fall into place as God’s men of opportunity. I praise the Lord with heart and soul and voice that all things are possible to those that believe. No one coming to the Lord in sincerity of heart will be disappointed. It is a wonderful thing that we can pray effectually, that unworthy, erring fallible mortals possess the capability of offering their requests to God. What higher power can man desire than this—to be linked with the infinite God? Feeble, sinful man has the privilege of speaking to his Maker. We utter words that reach the throne of the Monarch of the universe. We pour out our hearts desire from our closets. Then we go forth to walk with God as did Enoch.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 14, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 14, 1899, par. 9
Satanic agencies are ever warring for the mastery over human minds. But the angels of God are constantly at work, strengthening the weak hands and confirming the feeble knees of all who call upon God for help. The promise to every child of God is, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him than parents are to give good gifts to their children. Then ask; believe what God has said. He will surely fulfil His Word. Say from the heart, “My flesh and my heart faileth, but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.” [Psalm 73:26.] The victory must be gained day by day.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 90, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 90, 1900, par. 42
Had conversation with Elder Robinson in regard to work to be done in Cooranbong and Martinsville and Dora Creek, Morisset, and Mount Vincent. All these places must be worked, and Wyee and other places—stations on the railway. We are now determined to build two small meetinghouses, one in Martinsville and another at Dora Creek. May the Lord help us, for we must work in faith to do this. We must obtain that faith and courage that will hold fast the promise “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 59, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 59, 1900, par. 19
Our Lord watches over His sheep and lambs by day and by night, and it is not the will of our heavenly Father that even one of His little ones should perish. The work was enjoined upon Peter, Feed My lambs; feed My sheep. Great is the love of our heavenly Father for every soul for whom Christ has died. In the parable the one who asked was for a time refused, but afterward he was given as much as he needed. But the Lord says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] You need not fear an improper hour. His eye never slumbers nor sleeps. He always hears the prayer of the humble suppliant and grants His blessing. He never turns away unblest those who seek Him with the whole heart.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 91, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 91, 1900, par. 7
I was awake at three o’clock. I felt a burden of writing. The Lord has given me a message for His people, and I must bear that message to them by pen and voice. After writing eight pages of letter paper, I walked to the tent. We had a large number present. Brother Starr conducted the meeting. I spoke to the people in regard to the exercise of faith and claiming the promise of God without watching and testing our faith. It is ours to believe that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen. The Lord gave me a spirit of prayer, and I expect He will answer my petition and verify the promise He has made. Brother Farnsworth prayed, and will the Lord answer? He says, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 87, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 87, 1900, par. 5
Let us remember that everyone has some dark spot in their experience. Let us do all we can to bring cheerfulness and hope into the lives of others. What a blessing this will be to them. In their turn they will speak words of good cheer to others, to bring sunshine into their hearts. As we do this work, we shall be in a position to realize that the Lord hears our prayers, because we work in harmony with them, fulfilling all the duty we owe God and to ourselves. We shall go about our work in a thankful, prayerful frame of mind, but by faith we claim the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] Yes, we shall find the answer to our prayers, for God will do exceeding abundantly, above our highest expectation. What precious witness we shall then bear for God.Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 548—How Ellen White Bore Suffering
8MR 45.2
June 16—Another long, trying night has nearly passed. Daylight will soon come. I slept well during the first part of the night, but when I awoke, the nervous pain came on once more, so severely that I could scarcely compose myself to pray intelligently. After a time the nervousness passed away, and I prayed most earnestly to my heavenly Father. I presented before Him the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Matthew 7:7.) Even in my pain I can rejoice in the Lord, and this gives me peace. Christ is my personal Saviour. He has pledged His word to accomplish the salvation of all who believe in Him, and He will verify His promise.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 42, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 42, 1900, par. 18
On Sunday a large number were out to the six o’clock meeting. I united with the people in prayer for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. I then dwelt upon the necessity of believing that we do receive the blessings for which we ask. “Ask, and it shall be given unto you,” is the promise. [Matthew 7:7.] Our part is to rest on the Word with unwavering faith, believing that God will do according to His promise. Let faith cut its way through the shadow of the enemy. When a questioning doubt arises, go to Christ and let the soul be encouraged by communion with Him. The redemption He has purchased for us is complete. The offering He made was plenteous and without stint. Heaven has a never-failing supply of help for all who are needy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 197, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 197, 1901, par. 5
Brother Warren has his gift, and Brother Brunson has his gift. If all could have been connected with the work in New York from the beginning, the work would have been more complete. But Brother Brunson could not stand the strain. He will have to study how to work and at the same time save his weak organs all he possibly can. And let the prayers of the people of God ascend to the great Physician for His healing power. Let faith be constantly exercised. Take God at His word. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 66, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 66, 1901, par. 20
Talk faith, pray faith, work in faith, and then leave the results with God. Pray in more earnest faith, and the mystery of God’s providence will bring its answer. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] At times it may seem that for want of financial aid you cannot succeed. Hindrances will come. You will be tested, tried, and proved. Work and believe, putting faith and life and hope and courage into your work. After you have done what you can, wait for the Lord, declaring His faithfulness, and He will bring it to pass. With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. Wait for the Lord, not in fretful anxiety, but in undaunted faith and unshaken trust.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 124, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 124, 1901, par. 5
Prayer is not a penance; it is a petition to the heavenly Father for the wisdom and grace which He alone can give. It is the most sacred privilege that can be bestowed on needy human beings. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] But eat not of the leaves of [the] fruit of the forbidden tree, lest you die. You are living in an age of great knowledge. But much that is called science is opening the way for the wisdom and arts of Satan to be easily introduced. Many do not see this, and exalt false science as the great power of God. This is now your danger. Give no place to the devil in your methods of relieving the sick. Let the sinful, afflicted soul be taught, yes, educated, to look to Christ and live.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 103, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 103, 1902, par. 9
Christ invites us to learn of Him. “Come unto Me,” He says, “and I will give your 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 11:28-30.] You may claim the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Ask and believe, and you will receive the end of your faith—the salvation of your soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 256, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 256, 1902, par. 3
Time is short. Pray and work is the great charge to parents and to children. In the conflict with spiritual foes the best work and privilege for me is to sanctify myself, ready to take up any appointed work that seems to be duty. You must keep your case before the Lord in prayer, keep up good hope, and doubt not in your heart. Keep saying, “He hath promised; He will not leave me, even me.” I will pray for you. Do not think your case hopeless. Keep your mind stayed on God, saying, “The great Healer said, ‘Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find.’” [Matthew 7:7.] Put that promise before the Master and tell Him you believe the promise—left on record for just such suffering ones as you. You must carry him, your son, in the arms of your faith.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 14, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 14, 1902, par. 13
During the life of Jesus on earth, He frequently said to His disciples, “Follow me.” “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] Obstacles will certainly confront us on our way; but we must bravely, uncomplainingly press onward. The Lord is good. He is a present help in time of trouble. If we tell the Lord all our troubles <and we believe His Word>, He will hear and answer prayer. He invites us to come to Him. “Ask,” He says, “and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] The treasure-house is full. We may draw from it continually. Never will it become exhausted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 1, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 1, 1902, par. 22
In a variety of figures, matters have been presented to me regarding the church members who are dwarfed in spirituality because they do not look to Jesus, their ever-present help in time of trouble. I see men bearing a heavy burden of responsibility, but they are not gaining the strength of hope and courage by exercising faith in God. The promise is, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] But when in trouble many think that they must write to their earthly friends, telling them their perplexities, and begging for help. Under trying circumstances, unbelief comes in, and the way seems dark. And all the time Jesus, the great Burden-bearer, stands beside them, saying, Come unto me, and I will give you the rest for which you are longing. Why will we turn from him?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 16, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 16, 1903, par. 16
Heavenly Father, Thou hast said, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Heavenly Father, we need Thy Holy Spirit. We do not want to work ourselves, only as we work in unity with God. We want to be in a position where the Holy Spirit of God shall be upon us with its reviving, sanctifying power. Wilt Thou manifest Thyself unto us this very morning! Wilt Thou sweep away every mist and every cloud of darkness!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 192, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 192, 1903, par. 6
Now, that death would have taken away the sin of every mortal that is upon the earth. He came to take way the sin of the whole world, and He died for every person; no one was left out. Everyone could have been saved through the merits of the blood of the Son of the living God. Well, then what? How were they going to be saved? Well, He says, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] He wants you to believe in Him, that He will do just exactly as He said. He would take away your sins. When you repent, and ask His pardon, He is all ready. And then what? Why, you are to believe; you are to accept it. He is not to make you to believe. But there is a power in you to believe. “To as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to as many as believed in His name.” [John 1:12.] Well, then, let us believe.Matthew 7:7-8
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
In Prayer
CT 242.1
You are invited to come, to ask, to seek, to knock; and you are assured that you will not come in vain. Jesus says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7, 8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 24a, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 24a, 1888, par. 6
We do not fail to pray for you every night, and we believe that the Lord will work in your behalf, and we hope you will cling to the promises and not let the enemy weaken your faith. Jesus lives, Jesus reigns. He says, “Ask and ye shall receive. Seek and ye shall find. Knock and it shall be opened unto you; for whosoever asketh receiveth, and whosoever knocketh, it shall be opened unto him.” See Matthew 7:7, 8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 186, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 186, 1898, par. 13
Commenced my writing at three o’clock, after seeking the Lord most earnestly in prayer. The promise is, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: ... for he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7, 8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 144, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, par. 5
If when you ask you do not immediately feel any special exercise of feeling, do not think that your prayer is not answered. The One who says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened,” will hear and answer you. [Matthew 7:7, 8.] Let then His Word be your trust, ask and seek, and have the privilege of finding. Christ has encouraged you. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you”—the yoke of restraint and obedience—“and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] We are to find rest by wearing His yoke and bearing His burdens. In being co-workers with Christ in the great work for which He gave His life, we shall find true rest. When we were sinners, He gave His life for us. He wants us to come to Him and learn of Him. Thus we are to find rest. He says He will give you rest. Then do not lay your burdens upon any human being. “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” In doing this you will find in your own experience the rest that Christ gives, the rest that comes from wearing His yoke and lifting His burdens.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 57, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 57, 1902, par. 34
To us the promise is: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] We have no excuse for giving way to doubt, despondency, and despair. In the gift of Christ all the treasures of heaven have been placed at our command. If we by faith lay hold of God’s promises, we shall be able to walk in the Saviour’s footsteps.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 106, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 106, 1904, par. 4
Before us there has been placed an open door, which no man can shut. In the third of Revelation we read: “Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Verse 8.] Why are we so slow to enter this door? The promises given us are yea and amen. Christ declares: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every man that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.]Prayer
Chapter 8—Prevailing Prayer
Pr 77.1
You are invited to come, to ask, to seek, to knock; and you are assured that you will not come in vain. Jesus says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7, 8.—(Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 241, 242.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 108, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 108, 1904, par. 7
Before us there has been placed an open door which no man can shut. In the third of Revelation we read: “Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Verse 8.] Why are we so slow to enter this door? The promises given us are yea and amen. Christ declares: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 140, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 140, 1906, par. 16
Now here is the whole sum of the Christian experience, if we will carry it out. I am so thankful that Jesus Christ is our representative; “and looking unto Jesus, who is the Author.” It does not stop there. “Author of your faith”—but it does not stop there—“and finisher of your faith.” [Hebrews 12:2.] He carries you through your faith, and Christ gives you the lessons of simplicity. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for whosoever asketh receiveth, he that seeketh findeth, to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] Now what we want is to give more time to prayer and less to useless conversation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 338, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 338, 1906, par. 2
Your success depends upon your possessing the meekness and the lowliness of Jesus. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 153, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 153, 1907, par. 3
It is not the escaping from trials that makes a happy people. No; trials and grievances are permitted to come upon us, that we may be led to seek the Lord. In seeking the Lord, His promise is verified, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] During this meeting, we should be weeding out of our thoughts all complaining and fault-finding. Let us not continue to look upon any defects that we may see. It is our business individually to “behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons (the children) of God.” [1 John 3:1.] This scripture includes us all.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 154, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 154, 1907, par. 34
I have the Word of the Lord, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] I believe the Word. I have sought the Lord in prayer, and I believe the Word. I rest upon the promise. I have the assurance of One who will never fail us. I am comforted; I am strengthened spiritually, and my physical strength is renewed because I have faith in God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 14, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 14, 1907, par. 2
“Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] Christ speaks to you. Hear what He saith, and believe. “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Take this assurance from the Word of the Lord, and believe it. “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 11:28-30.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 145, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 145, 1907, par. 15
As laborers together with God, we should never neglect the precious privilege of prayer. The promise is given us, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] Let us present our petitions for grace and counsel, and plead that light be given us, that we may understand the Word. Let us pray for wisdom, that we may know how to communicate that Word for the encouragement of others. Let us often study the seventeenth chapter of John, wherein is recorded the wonderful prayer of Christ to His heavenly Father. Here we can learn how to pray, and to bring ourselves into right relation to God. The signs that foretell the second coming of Christ are fast fulfilling. Shall the people be left in ignorance of the great event before them and have to meet that awful day unprepared? God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever would receive Him might not perish, but have everlasting life. Heaven has made a complete offering for the salvation of the world. Shall those who profess to love God and keep His commandments be indifferent to the souls of men? No, no; they cannot be.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 95, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, par. 13
It is better to praise the Lord than to complain. Let not our tongues utter words of which we shall be ashamed when Christ shall come in His glory with all the holy angels with Him. We must be clean in lips and in heart; we must be sanctified and refined, even as Christ was. Let us imitate His example. To do this we must understand His Word. His promise to every seeker is, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 7, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, par. 1
My mind has been much exercised of late in regard to our need of the guidance of the Holy Spirit of God. The promise is given us, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you;” and the assurance is repeated, “For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] The thought is enforced upon us that our dependence must be more fully upon God. He is ready and willing to do for us the very things that we need. Let us trust Him as His children.Prayer
Chapter 20—Praying In The Name of Jesus
Pr 219.3
God Invites Us to Come to Him in the Name of Jesus—You are invited to come, to ask, to seek, to knock; and you are assured that you will not come in vain. Jesus says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7, 8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 53, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, par. 4
To those who are bearing heavy responsibilities, I wish to say: The Lord desires every one of us to come into a sacred nearness with Himself. It is our privilege to do this. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] With such promises as these, let us come before the Lord with assurance, presenting before Him His own Word, and saying, “Father, you have promised to accept us in the Beloved. You have made provision for our salvation through the gift of Jesus.” “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Oh, what a gift! And all that we might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 71, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 71, 1912, par. 3
God’s promises to us are so rich, so full, that we need never hesitate or doubt; we need never waver or backslide. In view of the encouragements that are found all through the Word of God, we have no right to be gloomy or despondent. We may have weakness of body; but the compassionate Saviour says: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.]The Upward Look
Seek Divine Not Human Wisdom, October 3
UL 290.4
“Ask, and it shall be given you,” the Saviour declared; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened” (Matthew 7:7, 8)....To Be Like Jesus
Spiritual Growth Through Prayer, January 25
BLJ 32.1
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Matthew 7:7, 8, NKJV.Ye Shall Receive Power
In Moments of Despair, May 4
YRP 133.1
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Matthew 7:7, 8.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 144, 1901
2SAT 164.1
If when you ask you do not immediately feel any special exercise of feeling, do not think that your prayer is not answered. The One who says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened” [Matthew 7:7, 8], will hear and answer you. Let then His Word be your trust; ask and seek and have the privilege of finding. Christ has encouraged you. He says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you”—the yoke of restraint and obedience—“and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls” [Matthew 11:28, 29].The Signs of the Times
September 9, 1889
ST September 9, 1889, par. 1
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7, 8.With God at Dawn
We Must Claim God’s Promises, March 27
WGD 88.1
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Matthew 7:7, 8.Matthew 7:7-11
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 45, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 45, 1891, par. 14
I attended morning meeting and bore my testimony in regard to faith, pleading with all present to believe the promises of God just as they read. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7, 8. I presented before them (verses 9-11), dwelling especially on (verse 11): “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things or the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 98, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 98, 1893, par. 33
Repeat in full confidence, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” Matthew 7:7-11. “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” John 14:13.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 198, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 198, 1898, par. 24
James 1:5. If any one thinks he is to be upbraided, he will stand off and not ask, but there is nothing of this kind. There is something else, though. Let him ask in faith. You are not to ask and then go right along as though you did not expect anything. You are not to ask to use for your own pleasure. No! No! We are to be sober, to put solid timbers into our lives. We are to enquire at every step, Is this what Jesus would have me do? We need not be swayed this way and that, for He is more willing to give us power to remain steadfast than we are to ask. Matthew 7:7-11. In another place it says, “How much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” [Luke 11:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 111, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, par. 28
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?” [Matthew 7:7-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 14, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 14, 1905, par. 18
“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Verse 48.] Christ will give the grace if you will give the obedience. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom is his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?” [Matthew 7:7-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 146a, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 146a, 1905, par. 7
I am pleading with God to enlighten our brethren in all matters, that they may understand the work that needs to be done in the important city of Nashville. My prayer is, “We come to Thee, O Thou Saviour of the world, pleading the promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.’ [Matthew 7:7.] I ask sincerely, earnestly, because I believe Thy Word. Help our faithful, aged workers in Nashville. I, thy dependent, believing child, take thy words, and call upon Thee to open the hearts of Thy people, and lead them to send in their offerings to Nashville now, just now. Help Elder Butler and Elder Haskell in their tent effort. Help them to secure means to pay for the meetinghouse, and to set it in acceptable order, so that it will make a presentation corresponding with Thy directions. In Thy lessons to Thy disciples Thou didst say, ‘What man is there of you who if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?’ Thou hast said, ‘If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him.’ [Verses 9-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 98a, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 98a, 1905, par. 1
Christ has given us the gracious invitation and the assurance: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.]20LtMs, Ms 98a, 1905, par. 2
This assurance is made doubly sure by repetition: “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Verse 8.]20LtMs, Ms 98a, 1905, par. 3
That we may better realize our privilege in coming to Him in prayer, the Saviour continues: “Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him!” [Verses 9-11.]20LtMs, Ms 98a, 1905, par. 5
Are these words of our Lord to be treated with indifference? Why wait for further evidence? Why not honor Him by believing His words? Why should anyone send letters to another who is far away, seeking for advice and counsel, when the mighty Counselor declares that “He that asketh receiveth”? [Verse 8.]20LtMs, Ms 98a, 1905, par. 7
The words of Christ mean exactly what they say, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Let us not insult our Redeemer by doubting or disbelieving His positive assurances. Because of our fearfulness to trust God, we have failed to reveal to the world a perfect faith. If we carry to others our burdens and complaints, we ourselves receive no help, and their peace of mind is often destroyed. Shall we now turn over a new page in our experience, and work and rejoice as true Christians?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 146, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 146, 1905, par. 7
I am pleading with God to enlighten our brethren in all matters, that they may understand the work that needs to be done in the important city of Nashville. My prayer is, “We come to Thee, O Thou Saviour of the world, pleading the promise, ‘Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.’ [Matthew 7:7.] I ask sincerely, earnestly, because I believe Thy Word. Help our faithful, aged workers in Nashville, Tennessee. I, Thy dependent, believing child, take Thy words and call upon Thee to open the hearts of thy people and lead them to send in their offerings to Nashville now, just now. Help Elder Butler and Elder Haskell in their tent effort. Help them to secure means to pay for the meetinghouse and to set it in acceptable order, so that it will make a presentation corresponding with Thy directions. In Thy lessons to Thy disciples Thou didst say, ‘What man is there of you whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?’ Thou hast said, ‘If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him.’ [Verses 9-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 37, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 37, 1896, par. 3
The life of Christ and His labors of love, shames and condemns our unbelief. But the promise is, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more will your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” [Matthew 7:7, 11.] Then let us ask. I am sorry that so few know Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 41, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 41, 1896, par. 3
The life of Christ and His labors of love shames and condemns our unbelief. But the promise is, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more will your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him.” [Matthew 7:7, 11.] Then let us ask.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 155, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 155, 1902, par. 42
Notwithstanding the small value of the inhabitants of this world in comparison with all the rest of the universe, Christ volunteered to take upon Himself the nature of humanity, and to bear on His own divine soul all the sins of mankind, in order that He might redeem the fallen race and enable them to gain life eternal. In view of His infinite sacrifice, how cruel it is for men and women to refuse to accept the great salvation offered them, or to misrepresent their Saviour after professing to give themselves wholly to His service! How cruel of them to doubt that He will hear their prayers! He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.]17LtMs, Ms 155, 1902, par. 43
Christ represents Himself as sustaining the same tender relation to us that a father sustains to his children. “What man is there of you,” He inquires, “whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?” [Verses 9-11.] He is willing to give the Holy Spirit to every one who asks in faith. Why are we so weak? so faithless? Why do we cherish defects of character? Why do we not always come to our heavenly Father, to ask in simple, childlike faith for the things that we need? John speaks of Christians as “little children,” and this is what all the members of God’s family on earth are. [1 John 2:1.] In knowledge and understanding we are nothing but babes; yet Christ volunteered to teach us in a language so simple that all can understand. No one needs to use a dictionary in order to comprehend the meaning of the simple words He uses in telling us how to gain eternal life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 100, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 100, 1902, par. 14
The Lord withholds from us no good thing. He declares, “Ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [John 15:7.] He does not tell us to restrict our asking to certain things, but assures us that He will bless us according to the riches of His grace. He is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him, than parents are to give good gifts to their children. To show His willingness, He refers to the tender relationship that a father sustains to his son. “What man is there of you,” He says, “whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good gifts to them that ask Him?” [Matthew 7:9-11.]17LtMs, Ms 100, 1902, par. 17
Parents, let us constantly keep before our children the relation that we sustain to our heavenly Father. Let us tell them that we are His children, and that we desire to treat them as He treats us. He does not indulge us in injurious things. He gives us only the things that are for our best good. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Verses 7, 8.]Matthew 7:7-14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 324, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, par. 5
“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 that go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:7-14.]Matthew 7:7-16
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 32, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 32, 1889, par. 1
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh receiveth and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom, if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or, if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? Therefore, all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them, for this is the law and the prophets.” Matthew 7:7-12.6LtMs, Ms 32, 1889, par. 10
Now what are we to do? Why, represent Christ here upon the earth, the only way He will be represented. We can go to God for the things we need. Christ has said, “Enter into the strait gate,” also, “Beware of false prophets.” “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” [Matthew 7:13, 15, 16.] What a man professes is no evidence that he is a child of God, but what he does. Does he manifest a proper spirit? Does he reveal Christ in His home life?The Great Controversy
Chapter 32—Snares of Satan
GC 519.3
But none need be deceived concerning them. It may be readily seen whose children they are, whose example they follow, and whose work they do. “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” Matthew 7:16. Their course resembles that of Satan, the envenomed slanderer, “the accuser of our brethren.” Revelation 12:10.GC 528.2
Satan can present a counterfeit so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the truth; but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires, at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the truth and the “Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” John 1:9. The Spirit of truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is declared: “Seek, and ye shall find.” “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.” Matthew 7:7; John 7:17.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Matthew 7:6-15
Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
A Severe Trial
The Fifty Texts Luke 1:20
John 16:15
Acts 2:4
Acts 4:29, 30
Acts 4:31
Matthew 7:6
Matthew 7:7-12
Matthew 7:15
Matthew 24:24
Colossians 2:6, 7
Colossians 2:8
Hebrews 10:35-37
Hebrews 10:38, 39
Hebrews 4:10, 11
Hebrews 4:12
Philippians 1:6
Philippians 1:27-29Philippians 2:13-15
Ephesians 6:10-13
Ephesians 6:14-18
Ephesians 4:32
1 Peter 1:22
John 13:34, 35
2 Corinthians 13:5
1 Corinthians 3:10, 11
1 Corinthians 3:12, 13
Acts 20:28-30
Galatians 1:6-9
Luke 12:3-7
Luke 4:10, 11
2 Corinthians 4:6-9
2 Corinthians 4:17, 18
1 Peter 1:5-7
1 Thessalonians 3:8Mark 16:17, 18
John 9:20-27
John 14:13-15
John 15:7, 8
Mark 1:23-25
Romans 8:38, 39
Revelation 3:7-13
Revelation 14:4, 5
Philippians 3:20
James 5:7, 8
Philippians 3:21
Revelation 14:14-17
Hebrews 4:9
Revelation 21:2
Revelation 14:1
Revelation 22:1-5
Early Writings
Texts Referred to on Preceding Page
EW 24.5
Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him? Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Matthew 7:6-12, 15.Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2
Chapter 10—Trials and Victories
2SG 59.2
Luke 1:20; John 16:15; Acts 2:4; 4:29-31; Matthew 7:6-12, 15; 24:24; Colossians 2:6-8; Hebrews 10:35-39; 4:10-12; Philippians 1:6, 27-29; 2:13-15; Ephesians 6:10-18; 4:32; 1 Peter 1:22; John 13:34, 35; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 Corinthians 3:10-13; Acts 20:28-30; Galatians 1:6-9; Luke 12:3-7; 4:10, 11; 2 Corinthians 4:6-9, 17, 18; 1 Peter 1:5-7; 1 Thessalonians 3:8; Mark 16:17, 18; John 9:20-27; 14:13-15; 15:7, 8; Mark 1:23-25; Romans 8:38, 39; Revelation 3:7-13; 14:4, 5; Philippians 3:20; James 5:7, 8; Philippians 3:21; Revelation 14:14-17; Hebrews 4:9; Revelation 21:2; 14:1; 22:1-5.Life Sketches Manuscript
Some Erroneous Theories
Luke 1:202 Corinthians 4:6-9, 17, 18John 16:151 Peter 1:5-7Acts 2:4, 429-311 Thessalonians 3:8Matthew 7:6-12, 15; 24:24Mark 15:17, 18Colossians 2:6-8John 9:20-27; 14:13-15; 15:7, 8 Hebrews 10:35-39; 4:10-12 Mark 1:23-25Philippians 1:6, 27-29; 2:13-15 Romans 8:38, 39Ephesians 6:10-18; 4:32 Revelation 3:7-13; 14:4, 51 Peter 1:22Philippians 3:20John 13:34, 35James 5:7, 82 Corinthians 13:5Philippians 3:211 Corinthians 3:10-13Revelation 14:14-17Acts 20:28-30Hebrews 4:9Galatians 1:6-9Revelation 21:2; 14:1; 22:1-5Luke 12:3-7; 10, 11