EGW WritingsPhilippians 4
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read Philippians 4 in the BiblePhilippians 4:1-3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 43a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 43a, 1898, par. 5
Women helped our Saviour by uniting with Him in His work. And the great apostle Paul writes, “Therefore, my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. And I entreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellow laborers, whose names are in the book of life.” [Philippians 4:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 142, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 142, 1903, par. 75
Women helped our Saviour by uniting with Him in His work. And the great apostle Paul writes, “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. And I entreat thee also, true yoke fellow, help those women which labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellow laborers, whose names are in the book of life.” [Philippians 4:1-3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 33, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 33, 1912, par. 28
Women helped our Saviour by uniting with Him in His work. And the great apostle Paul writes, “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. And I entreat ye also, true yokefellow, help those women which labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellow laborers, whose names are in the book of life.” [Philippians 4:1-3.]Philippians 4:1-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 119, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 119, 1907, par. 11
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:1-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 91, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 91, 1908, par. 8
“Finally, my brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:1-8.]Philippians 4:1-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 46, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 46, 1902, par. 35
“Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. ... Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” [Philippians 4:1, 8, 9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 132, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 132, 1909, par. 15
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” [Philippians 4:1, 5-9.]Philippians 4:1-23
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 45—Written From Rome
AA 469.1
The apostle Paul early in his Christian experience was given special opportunities to learn the will of God concerning the followers of Jesus. He was “caught up to the third heaven,” “into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.” He himself acknowledged that many “visions and revelations” had been given him “of the Lord.” His understanding of the principles of gospel truth was equal to that of “the very chiefest apostles.” 2 Corinthians 12:2, 4, 1, 11. He had a clear, full comprehension of “the breadth, and length, and depth, and height” of “the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” Ephesians 3:18, 19.AA 469.2
Paul could not tell all that he had seen in vision; for among his hearers were some who would have misapplied his words. But that which was revealed to him enabled him to labor as a leader and a wise teacher, and also molded the messages that he in later years sent to the churches. The impression that he received when in vision was ever with him, enabling him to give a correct representation of Christian character. By word of mouth and by letter he bore a message that ever since has brought help and strength to the church of God. To believers today this message speaks plainly of the dangers that will threaten the church, and the false doctrines that they will have to meet.AA 470.1
The apostle’s desire for those to whom he addressed his letters of counsel and admonition was that they should “be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine;” but that they should all come into “the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” He entreated those who were followers of Jesus in heathen communities not to walk “as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God ... because of the blindness of their heart,” but “circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time.” Ephesians 4:14, 13, 17, 18; 5:15, 16. He encouraged the believers to look forward to the time when Christ, who “loved the church, and gave Himself for it,” would “present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing”—a church “holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25, 27.AA 470.2
These messages, written with a power not of man but of God, contain lessons which should be studied by all and which may with profit be often repeated. In them practical godliness is outlined, principles are laid down that should be followed in every church, and the way that leads to life eternal is made plain.AA 471.1
In his letter to “the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse,” written while he was a prisoner in Rome, Paul makes mention of his joy over their steadfastness in the faith, tidings of which had been brought him by Epaphras, who, the apostle wrote, “declared unto us your love in the Spirit. For this cause,” he continued, “we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness.”AA 471.2
Thus Paul put into words his desire for the Colossian believers. How high the ideal that these words hold before the follower of Christ! They show the wonderful possibilities of the Christian life and make it plain that there is no limit to the blessings that the children of God may receive. Constantly increasing in a knowledge of God, they may go on from strength to strength, from height to height in Christian experience, until by “His glorious power” they are made “meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.”AA 471.3
The apostle exalted Christ before his brethren as the One by whom God had created all things and by whom He had wrought out their redemption. He declared that the hand that sustains the worlds in space, and holds in their orderly arrangements and tireless activity all things throughout the universe of God, is the hand that was nailed to the cross for them. “By Him were all things created,” Paul wrote, “that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.” “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in His sight.”AA 472.1
The Son of God stooped to uplift the fallen. For this He left the sinless worlds on high, the ninety and nine that loved Him, and came to this earth to be “wounded for our transgressions” and “bruised for our iniquities.” Isaiah 53:5. He was in all things made like unto His brethren. He became flesh, even as we are. He knew what it meant to be hungry and thirsty and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by sleep. He was a stranger and a sojourner on the earth—in the world, but not of the world; tempted and tried as men and women of today are tempted and tried, yet living a life free from sin. Tender, compassionate, sympathetic, ever considerate of others, He represented the character of God. “The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, ... full of grace and truth.” John 1:14.AA 473.1
Surrounded by the practices and influences of heathenism, the Colossian believers were in danger of being drawn away from the simplicity of the gospel, and Paul, in warning them against this, pointed them to Christ as the only safe guide. “I would that ye knew,” he wrote, “what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.AA 473.2
“And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.... As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power.”AA 473.3
Christ had foretold that deceivers would arise, through whose influence “iniquity” should “abound,” and “the love of many” should “wax cold.” Matthew 24:12. He had warned the disciples that the church would be in more danger from this evil than from the persecution of her enemies. Again and again Paul warned the believers against these false teachers. This peril, above all others, they must guard against; for by receiving false teachers, they would open the door to errors by which the enemy would dim the spiritual perceptions and shake the confidence of those newly come to the faith of the gospel. Christ was the standard by which they were to test the doctrines presented. All that was not in harmony with His teachings they were to reject. Christ crucified for sin, Christ risen from the dead, Christ ascended on high—this was the science of salvation that they were to learn and teach.AA 474.1
The warnings of the word of God regarding the perils surrounding the Christian church belong to us today. As in the days of the apostles men tried by tradition and philosophy to destroy faith in the Scriptures, so today, by the pleasing sentiments of higher criticism, evolution, spiritualism, theosophy, and pantheism, the enemy of righteousness is seeking to lead souls into forbidden paths. To many the Bible is as a lamp without oil, because they have turned their minds into channels of speculative belief that bring misunderstanding and confusion. The work of higher criticism, in dissecting, conjecturing, reconstructing, is destroying faith in the Bible as a divine revelation. It is robbing God’s word of power to control, uplift, and inspire human lives. By spiritualism, multitudes are taught to believe that desire is the highest law, that license is liberty, and that man is accountable only to himself.AA 474.2
The follower of Christ will meet with the “enticing words” against which the apostle warned the Colossian believers. He will meet with spiritualistic interpretations of the Scriptures, but he is not to accept them. His voice is to be heard in clear affirmation of the eternal truths of the Scriptures. Keeping his eyes fixed on Christ, he is to move steadily forward in the path marked out, discarding all ideas that are not in harmony with His teaching. The truth of God is to be the subject for his contemplation and meditation. He is to regard the Bible as the voice of God speaking directly to him. Thus he will find the wisdom which is divine.AA 475.1
The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have. This is the knowledge that works transformation of character. Received into the life, it will re-create the soul in the image of Christ. This is the knowledge that God invites His children to receive, beside which all else is vanity and nothingness.AA 475.2
In every generation and in every land the true foundation for character building has been the same—the principles contained in the word of God. The only safe and sure rule is to do what God says. “The statutes of the Lord are right,” and “he that doeth these things shall never be moved.” Psalms 19:8; 15:5. It was with the word of God that the apostles met the false theories of their day, saying, “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid.” 1 Corinthians 3:11.AA 475.3
At the time of their conversion and baptism the Colossian believers pledged themselves to put away beliefs and practices that had hitherto been a part of their lives, and to be true to their allegiance to Christ. In his letter, Paul reminded them of this, and entreated them not to forget that in order to keep their pledge they must put forth constant effort against the evils that would seek for mastery over them. “If ye then be risen with Christ,” he said, “seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.”AA 476.1
“If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. Through the power of Christ, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. Souls that have borne the likeness of Satan have become transformed into the image of God. This change is in itself the miracle of miracles. A change wrought by the Word, it is one of the deepest mysteries of the Word. We cannot understand it; we can only believe, as declared by the Scriptures, it is “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”AA 476.2
When the Spirit of God controls mind and heart, the converted soul breaks forth into a new song; for he realizes that in his experience the promise of God has been fulfilled, that his transgression has been forgiven, his sin covered. He has exercised repentance toward God for the violation of the divine law, and faith toward Christ, who died for man’s justification. “Being justified by faith,” he has “peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.AA 476.3
But because this experience is his, the Christian is not therefore to fold his hands, content with that which has been accomplished for him. He who has determined to enter the spiritual kingdom will find that all the powers and passions of unregenerate nature, backed by the forces of the kingdom of darkness, are arrayed against him. Each day he must renew his consecration, each day do battle with evil. Old habits, hereditary tendencies to wrong, will strive for the mastery, and against these he is to be ever on guard, striving in Christ’s strength for victory.AA 477.1
“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth,” Paul wrote to the Colossians; “in the which ye also walked sometime, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.... Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”AA 477.2
The letter to the Colossians is filled with lessons of highest value to all who are engaged in the service of Christ, lessons that show the singleness of purpose and the loftiness of aim which will be seen in the life of him who rightly represents the Saviour. Renouncing all that would hinder him from making progress in the upward way or that would turn the feet of another from the narrow path, the believer will reveal in his daily life mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, forbearance, and the love of Christ.AA 478.1
The power of a higher, purer, nobler life is our great need. The world has too much of our thought, and the kingdom of heaven too little.AA 478.2
In his efforts to reach God’s ideal for him, the Christian is to despair of nothing. Moral and spiritual perfection, through the grace and power of Christ, is promised to all. Jesus is the source of power, the fountain of life. He brings us to His word, and from the tree of life presents to us leaves for the healing of sin-sick souls. He leads us to the throne of God, and puts into our mouth a prayer through which we are brought into close contact with Himself. In our behalf He sets in operation the all-powerful agencies of heaven. At every step we touch His living power.AA 478.3
God fixes no limit to the advancement of those who desire to be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” Through prayer, through watchfulness, through growth in knowledge and understanding, they are to be “strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power.” Thus they are prepared to work for others. It is the Saviour’s purpose that human beings, purified and sanctified, shall be His helping hand. For this great privilege let us give thanks to Him who “hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son.”AA 479.1
Paul’s letter to the Philippians, like the one to the Colossians, was written while he was a prisoner at Rome. The church at Philippi had sent gifts to Paul by the hand of Epaphroditus, whom Paul calls “my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.” While in Rome, Epaphroditus was sick, “nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him,” Paul wrote, “and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.” Hearing of the sickness of Epaphroditus, the believers at Philippi were filled with anxiety regarding him, and he decided to return to them. “He longed after you all,” Paul wrote, “and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick.... I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.”AA 479.2
By Epaphroditus, Paul sent the Philippian believers a letter, in which he thanked them for their gifts to him. Of all the churches, that of Philippi had been the most liberal in supplying Paul’s wants. “Now ye Philippians know also,” the apostle said in his letter, “that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.”AA 480.1
“Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all.... And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”AA 480.2
The grace of God sustained Paul in his imprisonment, enabling him to rejoice in tribulation. With faith and assurance he wrote to his Philippian brethren that his imprisonment had resulted in the furtherance of the gospel. “I would ye should understand, brethren,” he declared, “that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; so that my bonds with Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; and many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”AA 481.1
There is a lesson for us in this experience of Paul’s, for it reveals God’s way of working. The Lord can bring victory out of that which may seem to us discomfiture and defeat. We are in danger of forgetting God, of looking at the things which are seen, instead of beholding by the eye of faith the things which are unseen. When misfortune or calamity comes, we are ready to charge God with neglect or cruelty. If He sees fit to cut off our usefulness in some line, we mourn, not stopping to think that thus God may be working for our good. We need to learn that chastisement is a part of His great plan and that under the rod of affliction the Christian may sometimes do more for the Master than when engaged in active service.AA 481.2
As their example in the Christian life, Paul pointed the Philippians to Christ, who, “being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in a fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”AA 481.3
“Wherefore, my beloved,” he continued, “as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.”AA 482.1
These words were recorded for the help of every striving soul. Paul holds up the standard of perfection and shows how it may be reached. “Work out your own salvation,” he says, “for it is God which worketh in you.”AA 482.2
The work of gaining salvation is one of copartnership, a joint operation. There is to be co-operation between God and the repentant sinner. This is necessary for the formation of right principles in the character. Man is to make earnest efforts to overcome that which hinders him from attaining to perfection. But he is wholly dependent upon God for success. Human effort of itself is not sufficient. Without the aid of divine power it avails nothing. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God. On the one side there is infinite wisdom, compassion, and power; on the other, weakness, sinfulness, absolute helplessness.AA 482.3
God wishes us to have the mastery over ourselves. But He cannot help us without our consent and co-operation. The divine Spirit works through the powers and faculties given to man. Of ourselves, we are not able to bring the purposes and desires and inclinations into harmony with the will of God; but if we are “willing to be made willing,” the Saviour will accomplish this for us, “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5.AA 483.1
He who would build up a strong, symmetrical character, he who would be a well-balanced Christian, must give all and do all for Christ; for the Redeemer will not accept divided service. Daily he must learn the meaning of self-surrender. He must study the word of God, learning its meaning and obeying its precepts. Thus he may reach the standard of Christian excellence. Day by day God works with him, perfecting the character that is to stand in the time of final test. And day by day the believer is working out before men and angels a sublime experiment, showing what the gospel can do for fallen human beings.AA 483.2
“I count not myself to have apprehended,” Paul wrote; “but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”AA 483.3
Paul did many things. From the time that he gave his allegiance to Christ, his life was filled with untiring service. From city to city, from country to country, he journeyed, telling the story of the cross, winning converts to the gospel, and establishing churches. For these churches he had a constant care, and he wrote many letters of instruction to them. At times he worked at his trade to earn his daily bread. But in all the busy activities of his life, Paul never lost sight of one great purpose—to press toward the prize of his calling. One aim he kept steadfastly before him—to be faithful to the One who at the gate of Damascus had revealed Himself to him. From this aim nothing had power to turn him aside. To exalt the cross of Calvary—this was the all-absorbing motive that inspired his words and acts.AA 484.1
The great purpose that constrained Paul to press forward in the face of hardship and difficulty should lead every Christian worker to consecrate himself wholly to God’s service. Worldly attractions will be presented to draw his attentions from the Saviour, but he is to press on toward the goal, showing to the world, to angels, and to men that the hope of seeing the face of God is worth all the effort and sacrifice that the attainment of this hope demands.AA 484.2
Though he was a prisoner, Paul was not discouraged. Instead, a note of triumph rings through the letters that he wrote from Rome to the churches. “Rejoice in the Lord alway,” he wrote to the Philippians, “and again I say, Rejoice.... Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”AA 484.3
“My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.... The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.”From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 45—The Letters Paul Wrote From Rome
TT 248.1
Paul acknowledged that many “visions and revelations” had been given him “of the Lord.” His understanding of the gospel was equal to that of “the very chiefest apostles.” 2 Corinthians 12:1, 11. He had a clear comprehension of “the breadth, and length, and depth, and height” of “the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” Ephesians 3:18, 19.TT 248.2
Paul could not tell all that he had seen in vision; some hearers would have misapplied his words. But that which was revealed to him molded the messages that he in later years sent to the churches. He bore a message that ever since has brought strength to the church of God. To believers today this message speaks plainly of dangers that will threaten the church.TT 248.3
The apostle’s desire for those to whom he addressed his letters was that they should “be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine,” but that they should come into “the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:14, 13. Christ, who “loved the church, and gave Himself for it,” would “present it to Himself ... not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing”—a church “holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25, 27.TT 248.4
In these messages, written with a power not of man but of God, principles are laid down that should be followed in every church, and the way that leads to life eternal is made plain.TT 249.1
In his letter to “the saints” at Colosse, written while he was a prisoner in Rome, Paul mentions his joy over their steadfastness: “From the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, to lead a life worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”TT 249.2
There is no limit to the blessings that the children of God may receive. They may go on from strength to strength until they are made “meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.” KJV.TT 249.3
The apostle exalted Christ as the One by whom God created all things. The hand that sustains the world in space is the hand that was nailed to the cross: “For in Him were all things created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, ... all things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”TT 249.4
The Son of God came to this earth to be “wounded for our transgressions” and “bruised for our iniquities.” Isaiah 53:5. He was in all things made like unto His brethren. He became flesh, even as we are. He knew what it meant to be hungry, thirsty, and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by sleep. He was tempted and tried as men and women of today are tempted and tried, yet lived a life free from sin.TT 249.5
Surrounded by the influences of heathenism, the Colossian believers were in danger of being drawn away from the simplicity of the gospel. Paul pointed them to Christ as the only safe guide: “I say this in order that no one may delude you with beguiling speech... . As therefore you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so live in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught... . See to it that no one makes a prey of you by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the universe, and not according to Christ.”TT 250.1
Christ had foretold that deceivers would arise, through whose influence “iniquity” should “abound,” and “the love of many” should “wax cold.” Matthew 24:12. The church would be in more danger from this evil than from the persecution of her enemies. By receiving false teachers, they would open the door to errors by which the enemy would shake the confidence of those newly come to the faith. All that was not in harmony with Christ’s teachings they were to reject.TT 250.2
As men tried in the days of the apostles by philosophy to destroy faith in the Scriptures, so today, by higher criticism, evolution, spiritualism, theosophy, and pantheism, the enemy of righteousness is seeking to lead souls into forbidden paths. To many the Bible is as a lamp without oil, because they have turned their minds into channels of speculative belief that bring confusion. The work of higher criticism, in dissecting, conjecturing, and reconstructing, is destroying faith, robbing God’s Word of power to control and inspire human lives. Spiritualism teaches that desire is the highest law, that license is liberty, and that man is accountable only to himself.TT 250.3
The follower of Christ will meet with spiritualistic interpretations of the Scriptures, but he is not to accept them. He is to discard all ideas that are not in harmony with Christ’s teaching. He is to regard the Bible as the voice of God speaking directly to him. The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have. This knowledge works transformation of character. This is the knowledge beside which all else is vanity and nothingness.TT 250.4
In every generation and in every land, the true foundation for character building has been the same—the principles contained in the Word of God. With the Word the apostles met the false theories of their day, saying, “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid.” 1 Corinthians 3:11.TT 251.1
In his letter, Paul entreated the Colossian believers not to forget that they must put forth constant effort: “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hid with Christ in God.”TT 251.2
Through the power of Christ, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. This change is the miracle of miracles—“Christ in you, the hope of glory.”TT 251.3
When the Spirit of God controls mind and heart, the converted soul breaks forth into a new song; the promise of God has been fulfilled, and the sinner’s transgression has been forgiven. He has exercised repentance toward God for the violation of the divine law and faith toward Christ, who died for man’s justification.TT 251.4
But the Christian is not to fold his hands, content with that which has been accomplished for him. He will find that all the powers and passions of unregenerate nature are arrayed against him. Each day he must renew his consecration. Old habits, hereditary tendencies to wrong, will strive for the mastery, and against these he is to strive in Christ’s strength.TT 251.5
“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”TT 251.6
The power of a higher, purer life is our great need. The world has too much of our thought, and the kingdom of heaven too little. To reach God’s ideal, the Christian is to despair of nothing. Moral and spiritual perfection through the grace of Christ is promised to all. Jesus is the source of power. He brings us to His Word. He puts into our mouth a prayer through which we are brought into close contact with Himself. In our behalf He sets in operation the all-powerful agencies of heaven. At every step we touch His living power.TT 252.1
The church at Philippi had sent gifts to Paul by Epaphroditus, whom Paul calls “my brother and fellow worker.” While in Rome, Epaphroditus was sick, “near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.” The believers at Philippi were filled with anxiety regarding Epaphroditus, and he decided to return to them. “He has been longing for you all,” Paul wrote, “and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill, ... for he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete your service to me.”TT 252.2
Paul sent the Philippian believers a letter by him. Of all the churches, Philippi had been the most liberal in supplying Paul’s wants. “Not that I seek the gift; but I seek the fruit which increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more; I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent.”TT 252.3
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, thankful for your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ... . And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, ... so that you may ... be pure and blameless for the day of Christ.”TT 252.4
Paul’s imprisonment had resulted in the furtherance of the gospel. “What has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to all the rest.”TT 253.1
There is a lesson for us in this experience. The Lord can bring victory out of what may seem to us defeat. When misfortune or calamity comes, we are ready to charge God with neglect or cruelty. If He sees fit to cut off our usefulness in some line, we mourn, not stopping to think that He may be working for our good. Chastisement is a part of His great plan. Under the rod of affliction the Christian may sometimes do more for the Master than when engaged in active service.TT 253.2
Paul pointed the Philippians to Christ, who, “though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross.”TT 253.3
“Therefore, my beloved,” Paul continued, “God is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.”TT 253.4
Paul holds up the standard of perfection and shows how it may be reached: “Work out your own salvation; ... for God is at work in you.” The work of gaining salvation is a joint operation between God and the repentant sinner. Man is to make earnest efforts to overcome, but he is wholly dependent on God for success. Without the aid of divine power human effort avails nothing. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God.TT 253.5
God wishes us to have self-mastery, but He cannot help us without our consent and cooperation. The divine Spirit works through the faculties given to man. Of ourselves we are not able to bring the desires and inclinations into harmony with the will of God; but if we are “willing to be made willing,” the Saviour will accomplish this for us, “casting down imaginations, ... and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5.TT 254.1
He who would be a well-balanced Christian must give all and do all for Christ. Daily he must learn the meaning of self-surrender. He must study the Word of God, obeying its precepts. Day by day God works with him, perfecting the character that is to stand in the final test. And day by day the believer works out before men and angels a sublime experiment, showing what the gospel can do for fallen human beings.TT 254.2
“I do not consider that I have made it my own,” Paul wrote, “but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”TT 254.3
In all the busy activities of his life, Paul never lost sight of one great purpose—to press toward the prize of his high calling. To exalt the cross—this was his all-absorbing motive that inspired his words and acts.TT 254.4
Though he was a prisoner, Paul was not discouraged. A note of triumph rings through the letters that he wrote from Rome. “Rejoice,” he wrote. “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”TT 254.5
“My God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:2-3
Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 959—Wages for Women Doing Gospel Work
12MR 167.2
Study the Scriptures for further light on this point. Women were among Christ’s devoted followers in the days of His ministry, and Paul makes mention of certain women who were helpers together with him in the gospel (see Philippians 4:2, 3).—Letter 142, 1909, pp. 4-6. (To A. G. Daniells, October 27, 1909)Philippians 4:3
Lift Him Up
The Judgment Set—The Books Opened, November 9
LHU 327.3
The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade His disciples: “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20). Paul speaks of his faithful fellow workers, “whose names are in the book of life” (Philippians 4:3). Daniel, looking down to “a time of trouble, such as never was,” declares that God’s people shall be delivered, “every one that shall be found written in the book.” And the revelator says that those only shall enter the city of God whose names “are written in the Lamb’s book of life” (Daniel 12:1; Revelation 21:27).The Faith I Live By
Judged From the Records, July 23
FLB 210.3
The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade His disciples, “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20. Paul speaks of his faithful fellow workers, “Whose names are in the book of life.” Philippians 4:3....The Great Controversy
Chapter 28—Facing Life’s Record
GC 480.3
The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade His disciples: “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20. Paul speaks of his faithful fellow workers, “whose names are in the book of life.” Philippians 4:3. Daniel, looking down to “a time of trouble, such as never was,” declares that God’s people shall be delivered, “everyone that shall be found written in the book.” And the revelator says that those only shall enter the city of God whose names “are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” Daniel 12:1; Revelation 21:27.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 28—The Investigative Judgment
GC88 480.3
The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade his disciples, “Rejoice, because your names are written in Heaven.” [Luke 10:20.] Paul speaks of his faithful fellow-workers, “whose names are in the book of life.” [Philippians 4:3.] Daniel, looking down to “a time of trouble, such as never was,” declares that God’s people shall be delivered, “everyone that shall be found written in the book.” [Daniel 12:1.] And the Revelator says that those only shall enter the city of God whose names “are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” [Revelation 21:27.]From Here to Forever
Chapter 28—Facing Our Life Record
HF 296.2
The books of record in heaven are to determine the decisions of the judgment. The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade His disciples: “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” Paul speaks of his fellow workers, “whose names are in the book of life.” Daniel declares that God’s people shall be delivered, “every one that shall be found written in the book.” And the revelator says that those only shall enter the City of God whose names “are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” Luke 10:20; Philippians 4:3; Daniel 12:1; Revelation 21:27.Christ in His Sanctuary
Whose Cases Considered?
CIHS 174.1
The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade His disciples: “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20. Paul speaks of his faithful fellow workers, “whose names are in the book of life.” Philippians 4:3. Daniel, looking down to “a time of trouble, such as never was,” declares that God’s people shall be delivered, “everyone that shall be found written in the book.” And the revelator says that those only shall enter the city of God whose names “are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” Daniel 12:1; Revelation 21:27.Homeward Bound
The Books of Record in Heaven, October 18
HB 319.4
The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. Jesus bade His disciples: “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20.) Paul speaks of his faithful fellow workers, “whose names are in the book of life.” (Philippians 4:3.) Daniel, looking down to “a time of trouble, such as never was,” declares that God’s people shall be delivered, “everyone that shall be found written in the book.” And the revelator says that those only shall enter the city of God whose names “are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Daniel 12:1; Revelation 21:27.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 142, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 142, 1909, par. 19
Study the Scriptures for further light on this point. Women were among Christ’s devoted followers in the days of His ministry, and Paul makes mention of certain women who were “helpers together” with him “in the gospel.” [Philippians 4:3.]Philippians 4:4
Conflict and Courage
A Voice of Gladness, December 12
CC 352.1
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4.The Great Controversy
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC 477.3
Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren.” Hebrews 2:11. The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” 1 John 5:4. Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10. And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC88 477.3
Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both he that sanctifieth and they that are sanctified are all of one; for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren.” [Hebrews 2:11.] The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world; and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” [1 John 5:4.] Truly spake God’s servant Nehemiah, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” [Nehemiah 8:10.] And says Paul: “Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” [Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.]This Day With God
Do Not Doubt, October 22
TDG 304.1
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4.TDG 304.6
“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). O that we might hear more of the praise of God proceeding from thankful hearts. We need Christians who constantly live in the sunshine, who under all circumstances can praise the Lord. With the hope and assurance that Christ has promised, how can we be unhappy?Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you.”—Matthew 5:11.
MB 35.1
It was this joy that filled the hearts of Paul and Silas when they prayed and sang praises to God at midnight in the Philippian dungeon. Christ was beside them there, and the light of His presence irradiated the gloom with the glory of the courts above. From Rome, Paul wrote, unmindful of his fetters as he saw the spread of the gospel, “I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.” Philippians 1:18. And the very words of Christ upon the mount are re-echoed in Paul’s message to the Philippian church, in the midst of their persecutions, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4.Ye Shall Receive Power
It Calls for a Joyful Praise, November 21
YRP 334.1
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4.A New Life (Revival and Beyond)
No Longer Condemned
NL 19.2
Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Hebrews 2:11). The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).True Revival
No Longer Condemned
TR 27.3
Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Hebrews 2:11). The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 32, 1868
1LtMs, Lt 32, 1868, par. 2
“And be ye thankful.” You must cultivate this Christian grace—gratitude to God. “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, ... and be ye thankful.” [Colossians 3:15.] Be cheerful in God. This will encourage Uriah. Get the expression of a smile upon your countenance, and let it sit there naturally with ease, as if at home. Smiles are too great strangers to your countenance. Put away your doleful expression, as though some terrible evil was impending over you. Believe that Jesus loves you, that He gave His life for you, that you might have happiness and joy forevermore. That same Jesus, who withheld not His own life to save you, will not leave you to yourself but will take you in His care and will not forsake you. Oh, Harriet, you have been too faithless and unbelieving. Stay up the hands of Uriah by cheerful countenance [and] encouraging words.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 15, 1861
1LtMs, Lt 15, 1861, par. 12
Brother Kellogg, are these things no sources of encouragement and joy to you? Turn your face from gloom and darkness and discouragement to the light God has granted you, to the blessings He has strewn in your pathway. “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Gratitude from you is due Him for His abundant mercy to you.Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
The Power of a Happy Disposition
CT 233.3
“Rejoice in the Lord alway,” the apostle Paul exhorts, “and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4. Whatever your disposition may be, God is able so to mold it that it will be sweet and Christlike. By the exercise of living faith you can separate from everything that is not in accordance with the mind of God, and thus bring heaven into your life here below. Doing this, you will have sunshine at every step. When the enemy seeks to enshroud the soul with darkness, sing faith and talk faith, and you will find that you have sung and talked yourself into the light.Radiant Religion
Always, January 31
RRe 33.1
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4.Radiant Religion
Praise Him, All Ye Lands, September 1
RRe 246.4
“Rejoice in the Lord alway,” the apostle Paul exhorts; “and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4. Whatever your disposition may be, God is able so to mould it that it will be sweet and Christlike. By the exercise of living faith you can separate from everything that is not in accordance with the mind of God, and thus bring heaven into your life here below. Doing this, you will have sunshine at every step. When the enemy seeks to enshroud the soul with darkness, sing faith and talk faith, and you will find that you have sung and talked yourself into the light.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 233.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 28, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 28, 1877, par. 1
I have courage in the Lord. Although my husband does not come up as fast as I could wish, yet I will not murmur. God has promised that He would hear the prayer of faith, and I believe that James will be restored fully to health. I will not be impatient. I will hope and trust and pray. We shall see of the salvation of God. We have some sweet refreshing seasons from the presence of the Lord. I will not let clouds shadow my mind. “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Not one murmur shall escape my lips or linger about my soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 33, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 33, 1885, par. 11
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” [Colossians 3:15.] Do we consider how little gratitude we bring into our lives, how few thoughts we give to our heavenly Father, how readily the words of fretful repining and complaining fall from our lips? How many of my hearers love to dwell upon and to tell of their trials! And how little we offer praise to God! We do not take into consideration all the blessings He bestows upon us from day to day. If we should take this view of the matter and recount our blessings, many of our supposed trials would disappear. We have every reason to be thankful, to praise God. We should not complain, but we should show our gratitude. “Rejoice in the Lord.” [Philippians 4:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 8a, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 8a, 1888, par. 56
Let none here shut themselves away from God by their perversity of spirit and then keep complaining that they have no light. Arise, dear souls, arise by faith, and do what you ought to do. Christ says, “Follow me,” and you shall not walk in darkness. [John 8:12.] Let go your human wisdom, and ask God for that wisdom which is pure, elevating, and ennobling and it shall be given you. Come up out of the cellar of doubt, of unbelief, of jealousy, and evil surmising into the upper chamber of faith, hope, courage, and thankfulness. Make melody to God in the heart. The garden of the Lord is strewn with precious flowers. Gather the roses and the lilies and the pinks from God’s spiritual garden. “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Let not the world receive the impression that there is no peace or joy or happiness in serving the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 7, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 7, 1892, par. 18
Temptations will assail, cares and darkness will oppress. When heart and flesh are ready to fail, who throws around us His everlasting arms? Who supplies the precious promise? Who brings to our remembrance words of assurance and hope? Whose grace is given in rich measure to those who ask it in sincerity and in truth? Who is it imputes to us His righteousness and saves us from sin? Whose light rolls back the fog and mist and brings us into the sunshine of His presence? O who but Jesus? Then love Him, then praise Him. “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Is Jesus today a living Saviour? Then, “If ye ... be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” [Colossians 3:1.] We are risen with Christ. Christ is our life. Through His mercy and gracious love we are declared to be chosen, adopted, pardoned and justified. Then let us magnify the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 24, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 24, 1895, par. 14
By pressing upon the soul the idea that God is displeased with us, Satan tries to torture us into unbelief. But we are to “rejoice in the Lord alway,” “though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. Whom having not seen, yet love: in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” [Philippians 4:4; 1 Peter 1:6-9.] The Lord Jesus is our only hope. He is your hope, and I am commissioned in His name to ask you to put your entire trust in Him. “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with Him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98b, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98b, 1896, par. 15
My sister, will you not take God’s word on trust, saying, He loves me; He gave His life for me; and He will save me. O that the Lord would work in your behalf! Look away from yourself to Jesus. Embrace Him as your Saviour. Cease to bemoan your helpless condition. Looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith, you will be inspired with hope, and will see the salvation of God. When you feel tempted to mourn, force your lips to utter the praises of God. “Rejoice in the Lord alway.” [Philippians 4:4.] Is He not worthy of praise? Then educate your lips to talk of His glory and to magnify His name.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 91, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, par. 34
“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Those who do this have a joyous life. No unpleasantness comes from their lips or from the atmosphere surrounding the soul; for they do not feel that they are better than others. Hide in Jesus Christ; then all the time the truth of God will be fitting you up for the future, immortal life. When you have confidence in the Mighty One, your experience is not borrowed; it is your own. Whatever your disposition may be, God is able to so mold that disposition that it will be sweet and Christlike. By living faith you can separate from everything not in accordance with the mind of God, and thus bring a heaven into your life here below. Will you do this? If you do, you will have sunshine at every step.In Heavenly Places
Take God’s Word on Trust, April 19
HP 116.4
Take God’s word on trust, saying, He loves me: He gave His life for me; and He will save me.... Look away from yourself to Jesus. Embrace Him as your Saviour. Cease to bemoan your helpless condition. Looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, you will be inspired with hope and will see the salvation of God. When you feel tempted to mourn, force your lips to utter the praises of God. “Rejoice in the Lord alway” (Philippians 4:4). Is He not worthy of praise? Then educate your lips to talk of His glory and to magnify His name....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 69, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 69, 1902, par. 13
We want you to return to this country when your work in Australia is finished. But that will not be very soon; for there is much work to do there. We rejoice to hear your reports of success. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] There is light, light ahead. “Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Be strong in the Lord, my brother, strong in His strength. Advance step by step. Every step taken is a step nearer the gate of the New Jerusalem.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 149, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 149, 1902, par. 17
Let us ever cherish a pure, holy dignity, but no pride. When we learn of Jesus His meekness and lowliness, we shall find rest and peace and happiness. “Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] We are waiting only “till the shadows be a little longer grown.” While I am in this world I want to fill up my time with deeds that will glorify God and at last be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, but the righteousness which is of Christ. Give my love to Sister Sisley. I think of her often. We may never meet again in this life, but we shall meet in the royal family as children of the heavenly King.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 90, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 90, 1903, par. 12
The Lord blesses His people that they may be a blessing to others. Those who have been sanctified through the truth are to be channels through which His love and grace may flow. They are to “rejoice in the Lord.” [Philippians 4:4.] He delights to hear from human lips fervent prayer, testimonies of thanksgiving, and songs of praise.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 252, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 252, 1903, par. 26
I must [close] now, for the mail goes today; and there are others to whom I wish to write. May the Lord give you His grace, my dear friends. We will all unite with you in pressing the battle to the gates. We love you both in the Lord. Christ loves you with a love that is more precious than gold or silver or precious stones. Walk by faith, not by sight. Bring uplifting, sanctifying grace into your own lives and into the lives of others. Then you will be all light in the Lord. Close the windows of the soul earthward and open them heavenward. “Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 11, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, par. 29
The Lord will surely humble those who uplift themselves. Men are not safe unless they are clothed with the garments of Christ’s righteousness. A holy joy, a sanctified experience it is our privilege to have. The apostle Paul points us to the true source of peace and joy and victory. He says, “Rejoice in the Lord.” [Philippians 3:1; 4:4.] There is to be no ambitious exalting of self. “Without Me ye can do nothing,” Christ declares. [John 15:5.] Then give all the glory to God. “Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness.” [Psalm 97:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 299, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 299, 1905, par. 5
“Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] O that we might hear more of the praise of God proceeding from thankful hearts. We need Christians who constantly live in the sunshine, who under all circumstances can praise the Lord. With the hope and assurance that Christ has promised, how can we be unhappy?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 260, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, par. 3
The talent of speech is a precious talent. The riches of the grace of Christ, which He is ever ready to bestow upon us, we are to impart in true, hopeful words. “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] If we would guard our words, so that nothing but kindness shall escape our lips, we will give evidence that we are preparing to become members of the heavenly family. In words and works we shall show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. O what a reformative influence would go forth if we as a people would value at its true worth the talent of speech and its influence upon human souls.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 61, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 61, 1907, par. 9
If you will only follow on to know the Lord, and do His bidding, you will know by your experience that God will suggest thoughts to you as you attempt to speak words to those who are around you, to restrain them from doing wrong, and to point out to them the way of life. It is your privilege to tell them of the Word of the living God and to counsel them in kindness and in love. Never get impatient, even if their requirements may seem unreasonable, but thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice that you have the privilege of becoming a child of God, an heir of heaven. “Rejoice in the Lord always,” and through His grace you may overcome one difficulty after another. [Philippians 4:4.] Such an experience will strengthen your faith, that you may believe that it is possible for you to be an overcomer.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 232, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 232, 1908, par. 16
“Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Let no murmuring word be heard. Do your best, and expect that the Lord will care for you. Let expressions of praise flow from your lips, as those who claim to be sons and daughters of God. Thus you will set an example that is worthy of imitation. You can both do much for the church by setting an example of praise to God; for others will catch from you the spirit of thanksgiving.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 116, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 116, 1908, par. 15
The end is near, and the Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the earth. You and your husband are to give to the school a demonstration of Christian principle. You are capable of living the principles of the truth. In your eating, your dressing, your speech, give an illustration of the power of truth in the life. Whatever course others pursue, you are to follow the Word of God, giving a practical illustration of the simplicity of true godliness. Be cheerful. “Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.]Lift Him Up
An Atmosphere of Hopefulness and Cheer, August 18
LHU 244.1
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4.Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 71—Happiness
2MCP 651.1
“Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). Those who do this have a joyous life. No unpleasantness comes from their lips or from the atmosphere surrounding the soul, for they do not feel that they are better than others. Hide in Jesus Christ; then all the time the truth of God will be fitting you up for the future, immortal life. When you have confidence in the Mighty One, your experience is not borrowed; it is your own.—Manuscript 91, 1901.My Life Today
The Fruits of Sanctification, September 4
ML 251.1
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4.Reflecting Christ
“Be Filled With all the Fulness of God,” July 20
RC 215.5
Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Hebrews 2:11). The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God.... Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)....Selected Messages Book 2
Learned Lessons from the Months of Suffering
2SM 245.1
Temptations will assail, cares and darkness will oppress. When heart and flesh are ready to fail, who throws around us His everlasting arms? Who applies the precious promise? Who brings to our remembrance words of assurance and hope? Whose grace is given in rich measure to those who ask it in sincerity and truth? Who is it imputes to us His righteousness and saves us from sin? Whose light rolls back the fog and mist and brings us into the sunshine of His presence? O who but Jesus? Then love Him, then praise Him. “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). Is Jesus today a living Saviour? “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1). We are risen with Christ. Christ is our life. Through His mercy and gracious love we are declared to be chosen, adopted, pardoned, and justified. Then let us magnify the Lord.—Letter 7, 1892.The Faith I Live By
Faith Is the Victory, April 30
FLB 126.2
The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” Truly spake God’s servant Nehemiah, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10. And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4. “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks....” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.110The Great Controversy, 477, 478.Philippians 4:4-6
Our High Calling
Rejoice! November 16
OHC 326.1
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.... Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:4-6.Philippians 4:4-7
Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]
MR No. 1251—Complete Victory Possible Through Faith in Christ
17MR 85.4
“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” [Philippians 4:4-7].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 206, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 206, 1908, par. 12
“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:4-7.]That I May Know Him
Safety in the “Old Paths,” July 25
TMK 212.3
Drink deep at the fountain of truth, and be a close student of the Word, for the Lord will take the words of truth and through the Holy Spirit imprint them on your heart that you may present the precious Word with simplicity and fervor. “Rejoice in the Lord alway: ...” that Jesus is glad to receive you with all your imperfections, with all your weakness, and acknowledge you as His child. Therefore, trust Him. Adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour by a well-ordered life and a godly conversation. “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing”—that is, be not overanxious—“but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” What a privilege is this given to every one to trust in Jesus and tell Him everything! “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7).This Day With God
Rejoice in the Lord, May 27
TDG 156.5
I spoke in the Rechabite’s hall at 3:00 P.M. from Philippians 4:4-7: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” I believe the promise is for me, and I appropriate the same personally. The promise itself is of no value unless I fully believe that He that has made the promise is abundantly able to fulfill, and infinite in power to do all that He has said.Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists
Grythyttehed
HS 195.1
Our people here are considerably scattered, but on the Sabbath they came in from all the surrounding country. The ground was covered with snow, and one brother came thirty miles in a sleigh, while others, both men and women, walked from six to twenty miles. Eld. Matteson preached in the morning, and when all had had time to come in from a distance, I followed, speaking from Philippians 4:4-7: “Rejoice in the Lord always.” I dwelt upon the importance of exercising faith in God, so that we can rejoice in him even in the midst of trials and persecutions, and of laboring in the spirit of Christ to win others to the truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 8, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 8, 1885, par. 1
“Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be know unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 26, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 26, 1885, par. 45
Walked about one mile to the meeting. Found a house full and spoke to them from Philippians 4:4-7. The Lord gave me freedom in speaking. He strengthened me, for in the morning I felt considerable weakness and trembling. Many were affected to tears and manifested eager attention as I addressed them. After I had ceased speaking we had a social meeting, and Elder Matteson interpreted the testimonies borne into English. There were many good, intelligent testimonies, showing genuine experience in the truth of God. I then shook hands with all and walked back to my home.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 80, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 80, 1893, par. 81
I spoke in the Rechabite’s hall at three p.m. from Philippians 4:4-7. “Be careful (over anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” I believe the promise is for me, and I appropriate the same personally. The promise itself is of no value unless I fully believe that He that has made the promise is abundantly able to fulfill, and infinite in power to do all that He has said.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 39, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 39, 1893, par. 21
I spoke in the Rechabite Hall [at] 3 p.m. from Philippians 4:4-7. The message the Lord gave me was a message of faith. We cannot dishonor God more than in distrusting His Word. Feeling is not at all reliable. God’s Word is the foundation upon which our hopes may safely rest.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 52, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 52, 1902, par. 21
With the rich assurances of God’s Word before us, let us ask in childlike faith, believing that we shall receive, because God’s word is Yea and Amen in Christ Jesus. Are you a child of God? Then trust your heavenly Father. Believe that God means what He says. “Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say rejoice.” “Let your moderation be known unto all men.” Do not doubt the Lord’s Word because an answer is not immediately returned. Doubt not the promise, “The Lord is at hand.” “Be careful in nothing, but in everything with prayer and supplication let your requests be made known unto God,” remembering the word, “The Lord is at hand.” “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.” [Philippians 4:4-7.]Philippians 4:4-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 25a, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 25a, 1895, par. 7
By faith walk through the hellish shadow of Satan and center your faith in your Advocate. “Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4. “And the peace of God ... shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 29, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 29, 1887, par. 40
Spoke this morning from Philippians 4:4-6. Good social meeting.5LtMs, Ms 29, 1887, par. 41
Spoke in the morning meeting, translated by A. C. Bourdeau. Philippians 4:7, 8. Our social meeting was good.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 48, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 48, 1893, par. 42
“If thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness.” [Matthew 6:23.] By dwelling upon the darkness, you may make your whole life a shadow. But God speaks to you in His Word, “Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Is there not reason for you to rejoice? Gather up and hang in memory’s hall the precious tokens of the love and mercy and tender compassion of our Saviour. “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing” [Verses 5, 6], that is, be not over-anxious to fill your soul with worriment, dwelling on suppositions and unpleasant things.8LtMs, Lt 48, 1893, par. 43
“But in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Verses 6-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 9, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 9, 1892, par. 90
Now having the evidence that God cares for you, put on the whole armor of God. “Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might ... For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand.” [Ephesians 6:10, 12, 13.] See Philippians 4:4-8; 1 Peter 1:13-22; 2:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 78, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 78, 1893, par. 29
Talk faith in Christ; talk hope, and rejoice in courage and be not intimidated with Satan’s devices. Jesus Christ is all-sufficient. Rejoice in His love. “Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:4-8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 36, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 36, 1893, par. 4
“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful (not overanxious) for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:4-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 68, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 68, 1895, par. 11
Gather up the precious things of peace, righteousness, and grace with which to store your mind. “Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:4-8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 3, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 3, 1895, par. 11
The Lord says, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:4-8.]Philippians 4:4-19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 100, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 100, 1898, par. 17
“Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God; and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do; and the God of peace shall be with you. ... My God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:4-9, 19.]Philippians 4:5
My Life Today
Regularity in Eating, May 22
ML 146.1
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Philippians 4:5.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 37, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 37, 1901, par. 35
This is all I can write today, for the mail must go soon. But I wish to say that when the time comes that it is no longer safe to use milk, cream, butter, and eggs, God will reveal this. No extremes in health reform are to be advocated. The question of using milk and butter and eggs will work out its own problem. At present we have no burden on this line. “Let your moderation be known unto all men.” [Philippians 4:5.]Philippians 4:5-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 147, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 147, 1896, par. 12
Drink deep at the Fountain of truth, and be a close student of the Word, for the Lord will take the words of truth and through the Holy Spirit imprint them on your heart that you may present the precious Word with simplicity and fervor. “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” that Jesus is glad to receive you with all your imperfections, with all your weakness, and acknowledge you as His child. Therefore, trust Him. Adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour by a well-ordered life and a godly conversation. “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing” that is, be not over-anxious—“but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests by made known unto God.” What a privilege is this given to every one to trust in Jesus and tell Him everything! “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:5-7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 100, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 100, 1896, par. 16
“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. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” “Do not err, my beloved brethren, Every good gift and every perfect gift lies from above, and cometh down from the Father of light, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” [James 1:5-8, 16, 17.] “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your minds and hearts through Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:5-7.]Philippians 4:5-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 98, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 98, 1896, par. 38
In your family you need to cultivate patience. Put yourself under the control of God; submit your will to the will of God, and then you will live to do God’s service. Commence now. Fall on the rock, and be broken. Let Jesus put His signature upon you. Then you will rejoice in the Lord always. “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing, but in everything, with prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known unto God.” [Philippians 4:5, 6.]11LtMs, Lt 98, 1896, par. 39
Tell all your troubles to the One who best understands how to help you. Rest your case in His hands, and believe that He hears your simple, heartfelt prayers. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.” [Verse 7.] You need this peace, for you are very easily disturbed. You are educating yourself in this direction. But the peace of God, which comes through entire service to Him, will give you strength of nerve and brain. You will no longer be as you have been represented to me—taking no genuine comfort in yourself, and giving no comfort to those around you.11LtMs, Lt 98, 1896, par. 40
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do; and the God of peace shall be in you.” [Verses 8, 9.] Take heed to these words.Philippians 4:6
In Heavenly Places
Prayer in the Home, March 24
HP 90.5
Jesus prayed to the Father with strong crying and tears. Paul exhorts believers to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). “In every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6).... God has a right to command our devotions; His authority is sacred and unquestionable. We are under obligation to pray because He requires it; and in obeying His requirements we shall receive a gracious and precious reward....From the Heart
Prevailing Prayer, January 8
FH 20.1
In everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6.Homeward Bound
Include Prayer Meeting, May 7
HB 148.2
Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be “instant in prayer,” to “continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” (Romans 12:12; Colossians 4:2.) Peter exhorts believers to be “sober, and watch unto prayer.” (1 Peter 4:7.) Paul directs, “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” (Philippians 4:6.) “But ye, beloved,” says Jude, “praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God.” (Jude 20, 21.) Unceasing prayer is the unbroken union of the soul with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 109, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 109, 1896, par. 23
Remember how brief is the period of life allotted to you. You know not how soon your probation may close. Say not presumptuously, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain.” God may have different calculations for you. You have no lease of life in which to carry out your plans. Life is but a vapor, “that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” [James 4:13, 14.] You know not how soon your hand may lose its cunning, your step its firmness. There is peril even in a moment’s delay. Cast your care upon the Lord, and on no account divorce religion from the business you engage in, whatever it may be. “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” [Philippians 4:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 93, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 93, 1898, par. 21
Are not the promises of God great and abundant? We need to pray much more than we do. With earnestness and perseverance we should pray, bringing our soul and body under consecration to God. Says the apostle Paul, “In everything by prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known unto God.” “Watch ye therefore, and pray always;” “continuing instant in prayer.” “Pray one for another.” [Philippians 4:6; Luke 21:36; Romans 12:12; James 5:16.] It is God who has given us the command to call upon Him. The requirements of the Lord are in every case the laws of His kingdom, and they must be obeyed. It is for our present and eternal interest to obey because all His commandments are gracious, and contemplate our best good. We are the Lord’s property, and we should, by obedience to His law, be in a condition to glorify His name.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 49, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 49, 1903, par. 19
Christ declares, “All things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” [Matthew 21:22.] Paul’s language is explicit and encouraging: “Be careful for nothing”—that is, Do not worry or fret—“but in everything by prayer and supplication let your requests be made known unto God.” [Philippians 4:6.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 581—Relationship of Prayer to Soulwinning
8MR 196.1
Christ declares, “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” (Matthew 21:22.) Paul’s language is explicit and encouraging: “Be careful for nothing;”—that is, Do not worry or fret—“but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” (Philippians 4:6.)Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 50—Worry and Anxiety
2MCP 470.2
Do Not Cross Bridges Before Time—Now we want to act like individuals who are redeemed by the blood of Christ; we are to rejoice in the blood of Christ and in the forgiveness of sins. That is what we are to do, and may God help us to get our minds off the dark pictures and think on those things that will give us light. Now I want to read another scripture, “Be careful for nothing” (Philippians 4:6). What does that mean?—Why, don’t cross a bridge before you get to it. Don’t make a time of trouble before it comes. You will get to it soon enough, brethren. We are to think of today, and if we do well the duties of today, we will be ready for the duties of tomorrow.—Manuscript 7, 1888.Our Father Cares
A Never-failing Refuge, May 18
OFC 150.1
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6.Prayer
Chapter 11—Answered Prayer
Pr 103.2
Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be “instant in prayer,” to “continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” Romans 12:12; Colossians 4:2. Peter exhorts believers to be “sober, and watch unto prayer.” 1 Peter 4:7. Paul directs, “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6. “But ye, beloved,” says Jude, “praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God.” Jude 20, 21.—(Steps to Christ, 95-97.)Prayer
Chapter 29—The Privilege of Prayer
Pr 283.3
Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be “instant in prayer,” to “continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” Romans 12:12; Colossians 4:2. Peter exhorts believers to be “sober, and watch unto prayer.” 1 Peter 4:7. Paul directs, “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6. “But ye, beloved,” says Jude, “praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God.” Jude 20, 21. Unceasing prayer is the unbroken union of the soul with God, so that life from God flows into our life; and from our life, purity and holiness flow back to God.Steps to Christ
Chapter 11—The Privilege of Prayer
SC 97.2
Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be “instant in prayer,” to “continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” Romans 12:12; Colossians 4:2. Peter exhorts believers to be “sober, and watch unto prayer.” 1 Peter 4:7. Paul directs, “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6. “But ye, beloved,” says Jude, “praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God.” Jude 20, 21. Unceasing prayer is the unbroken union of the soul with God, so that life from God flows into our life; and from our life, purity and holiness flow back to God.That I May Know Him
A Never-failing Refuge, August 7
TMK 225.1
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6.This Day With God
Take Jesus at His Word, September 16
TDG 268.1
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6.Philippians 4:6-7
Homeward Bound
Family Worship, September 25
HB 294.1
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.—Philippians 4:6.HB 294.5
Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; “and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7.)—Testimonies for the Church 7:43, 44.The Ministry of Healing
Life’s Best Things
MH 199.2
“In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6, A.R.V.; 4:7.Ye Shall Receive Power
Peace, March 5
YRP 73.1
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6, 7.Living by Principle
Feelings
PH048 35.2
Philippians 4:6, 7: Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 110, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 110, 1898, par. 9
What do we need as believers in Christ? Faith and prayer. “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 42, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 42, 1903, par. 27
“In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the God of peace which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:6, 7.] “In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.” [Isaiah 30:15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 1, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 1, 1905, par. 5
Be kind in all you do and say. If any one speaks harsh, irritating words to you, do not retaliate. Speak gently, and thus help those around you to bear the cross after Jesus. In every perplexity ask God for advice and counsel, and it will be given. When your mind is troubled, go to the Lord Jesus, and ask Him to give you His grace. Cast all your care upon Him who cares for you. “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Jesus Christ.” [Philippians 4:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 394, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, par. 5
The higher Christian life is to obey God’s commandment: “Be careful for nothing; but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” And then rest in the promise that “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and mind through Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:6, 7.] Our part is simply to trust in God. His part is to keep the soul in perfect peace. I will not worry; for then I cannot retain that peace which passeth all understanding, which shall keep our minds and hearts through Christ Jesus. We all need to express our thanksgiving to God for His keeping power. Why do we not express more often our thanksgiving to Him for His saving grace?Philippians 4:6-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 7, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 7, 1888, par. 33
Now I want to read another Scripture: “Be careful for nothing.” What does that mean? Why, don’t cross a bridge before you get to it. Don’t make a time of trouble before it comes. You will get to it soon enough, brethren. We are to think of today, and if we do well the duties of today, we will be ready for the duties of tomorrow. “But in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” [Philippians 4:6.] Thanksgiving is to be brought in. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” [Verse 7.] Then we are not given over into the hands of the devil; we have a loving heavenly Father, and He has given His Son to bear our iniquity.5LtMs, Ms 7, 1888, par. 34
Now what is next? “Finally, brethren.” Now, this is to each of you. It comes along down the line to our times. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Verse 8.] Shall we do it? Shall be turn over a page in our religious experience and train and educate the mind so that it will not take these things that are disagreeable and think on them? Shall we think on these things that give us no power, or shall we let our minds dwell on those things that will give us a better feeling toward our brethren and elevate our souls to God? Now, there are many things that we need to bring into our lives and characters. May God help us that we may take these things to our hearts and think of them, that our minds may be elevated above earthly thingsCounsels on Health
True Religion Ennobles the Mind
CH 630.1
Said the apostle Paul to his Philippian brethren, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Adopt this as the rule of life. “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:8, 6, 7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 23a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 23a, 1893, par. 51
Our bodies are built up from what we eat, and the character of our spiritual experience depends on what our minds feed upon and assimilate. By continually dwelling upon the mistakes and defects of others, many become religious dyspeptics. The Lord has bidden us: Philippians 4:6-8. But those who are busy in dissecting the words and acts of others, to discern all that is objectionable, fail to discover the good and pleasant things. They do not eat of the proper food to give spiritual vitality and healthful growth.Philippians 4:6-9
Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]
MR No. 1023—A Warning Against Doctrinal Errors Issuing from Battle Creek; Counsel to Live Victoriously in the Home
[Philippians 4:6-9, quoted.]
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 44, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, par. 19
“Be careful for nothing; but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things which ye have both learned and received, and heard, and seen in me, do; and the God of peace be with you.” [Philippians 4:6-9.]Philippians 4:7
Colporteur Ministry
Chapter 12—Given to Much Prayer
CM 80.2
I pray the Lord that you may understand this subject in its length and breadth and depth, and that you may feel your responsibility to represent the character of Christ by patience, by courage, and by steadfast integrity. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7, R.V.—Testimonies for the Church 6:320 (1900).The Colporteur Evangelist
Deeper Experience
CEv 14.2
I pray the Lord that you may understand this subject in its length and breadth and depth, and that you may feel your responsibility to represent the character of Christ by patience, by courage, and by steadfast integrity. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7, R. V.—Testimonies for the Church 6:317-320.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
The Holy Spirit’s Aid
2TT 539.2
I pray the Lord that you may understand this subject in its length and breadth and depth, and that you may feel your responsibility to represent the character of Christ by patience, by courage, and by steadfast integrity. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7, R. V.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Making the Worship Interesting
3TT 93.4
Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; and “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 89a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 89a, 1897, par. 6
We want now the peace of perfect trust in God, the peace of God, “that passeth understanding.” [Philippians 4:7.] The heavenly intelligences will be our assistants in the school, for the teachers will be laborers together with God. If every worker will trust in Jesus as his efficiency, he will feel the soothing influence of the words, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters.” [Psalm 23:1, 2.] The Lord Jesus saith unto you, “My peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth give I unto you.” [John 14:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 40, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 40, 1899, par. 4
We need to make great changes. We need to hold the pure principles in reverence for Christ and respect for the purchase of His blood. This we may do through practical obedience to heaven’s law. There must be a continual growth in those attributes which tend to perfection of character. When divine grace has opened our hearts, we shall impart to others of the grace we have received. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 68, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 68, 1902, par. 18
Darkness has covered the earth, and gross darkness the people. Deceit, cruelty, violence, and crime fill the land. But those who are willing to be led by God, will see light in His light. His power will give them victory. Right will triumph over wrong. We are to press upward and still upward, seeking to understand more of the breadth and depth and height of Christ’s love. We need more of the love “which passeth understanding.” [Philippians 4:7.] We need more, much more, of God. O why do we forget that it is our privilege to breathe in the Spirit of Christ? Why do we forget that God wants to lift upon us the light of His countenance, that He wants to give us life and joy and power?Counsels for the Church
Morning and Evening Worship
CCh 152.6
Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.In Heavenly Places
The Gift of Peace, January 29
HP 35.1
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7.Our High Calling
Peace in Affliction, November 17
OHC 327.1
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7.Prayer
Abraham
Pr 124.3
Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; “and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:44.)Prayer
Chapter 14—Daily Prayer
Pr 166.2
Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; “and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:44.)Sons and Daughters of God
God’s Peace Keeps the New Heart, April 7
SD 104.1
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Chapter 9—Family Worship
7T 44.5
Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; and “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 39—Qualifications of the Canvasser
6T 320.2
I pray the Lord that you may understand this subject in its length and breadth and depth, and that you may feel your responsibility to represent the character of Christ by patience, by courage, and by steadfast integrity. “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7, R. V.Philippians 4:8
Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene
Chapter 16—Social Purity
CTBH 136.1
It is the special work of Satan in these last days to take possession of the minds of youth, to corrupt the thoughts, and inflame the passions; for he knows that by so doing he can lead to impure actions, and thus all the noble faculties of the mind will become debased, and he can control them to suit his own purposes. All are free moral agents, and as such they must train their thoughts to run in the right channel. The first work of those who would reform is to purify the imagination. Our meditations should be such as will elevate the mind. “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.] Here is a wide field in which the mind can safely range. If Satan seeks to turn it to low and sensual things, bring it back. When corrupt imaginings seek to gain possession of your mind, flee to the throne of grace, and pray for strength from heaven. By the grace of Christ it is possible for us to reject impure thoughts. Jesus will attract the mind, purify the thoughts, and cleanse the heart from every secret sin. “The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God; ... casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” [2 Corinthians 10:4, 5.]Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1
Chapter 13—Food for the Mind
1MCP 108.1
Says Paul, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8). This will require earnest prayer and unceasing watchfulness. We must be aided by the abiding influence of the Holy Spirit, which will attract the mind upward, and habituate it to dwell on pure and holy things. And we must give diligent study to the Word of God. “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to Thy Word.” “Thy Word,” says the psalmist, “have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee” (Psalm 119:9, 11).—Patriarchs and Prophets, 460 (1890).Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2
Chapter 70—Criticism
2MCP 635.2
The Lord has bidden us, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8). But those who are so busy in dissecting the words and acts of others to discover all that is objectionable fail to discern the good and pleasant things. They do not eat of the proper food to promote spiritual vitality and healthy growth.—Manuscript 4a, 1893.Our High Calling
The Way to Look at Things, August 30
OHC 248.1
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 41—Apostasy at the Jordan
PP 460.2
Yet we have a work to do to resist temptation. Those who would not fall a prey to Satan’s devices must guard well the avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impure thoughts. The mind should not be left to wander at random upon every subject that the adversary of souls may suggest. “Girding up the loins of your mind,” says the apostle Peter, “Be sober, ... not fashioning yourselves according to your former lusts in ... your ignorance: but like as He which called you is holy, be ye yourselves also holy in all manner of living.” 1 Peter 1:13-15, R.V. Says Paul, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8. This will require earnest prayer and unceasing watchfulness. We must be aided by the abiding influence of the Holy Spirit, which will attract the mind upward, and habituate it to dwell on pure and holy things. And we must give diligent study to the word of God. “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to Thy word.” “Thy word,” says the psalmist, “have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalm 119:9, 11.That I May Know Him
Look for the Good, June 25
TMK 182.1
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8.That I May Know Him
A Time to Close the Mind, June 27
TMK 184.6
Let us diligently cultivate the pure principles of the gospel of Christ, the religion, not of self-esteem, but of love, meekness, and lowliness of heart. Then we shall love our brethren and esteem them better than ourselves. Our minds will not dwell on the dark side of their character; we shall not feast on scandal and flying reports. But “whatsoever things are ... of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,” we shall “think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).37The Review and Herald, June 3, 1884.The Faith I Live By
Christian Youth and Their Books, August 23
FLB 241.1
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8.This Day With God
The Great Commandment, October 5
TDG 287.5
With this lesson before us, let us hide ourselves in Christ. He is the source of all wisdom, all intelligence, all power. Behold in the cross of Christ the only guarantee for our salvation. Behold the Saviour giving His life for us, that we might be Christians. Those who strive to live the life of a Christian are battling against the devil’s lie. Can we doubt the result of this conflict? God lives, God reigns, and daily He is working His miracles. “They that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts” (Galatians 5:24). Before the world and the heavenly universe they give evidence that they are trying to live out the words, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; ... think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).Ye Shall Receive Power
Thoughts Transformed, February 13
YRP 52.1
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Warnings Against Jealousy and Misjudging; A Defense of Dr. Kellogg
1888 106.2
When we look at these matters without prejudice, we shall see some things to excuse and some things to commend, and fewer to censure. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” [Philippians 4:8].—Letter 21, 1888. (Written to Elder George I. Butler, October 14, 1888, from Minneapolis, Minnesota.)Education
Chapter 26—Methods of Teaching
Ed 235.1
The chief requisite of language is that it be pure and kind and true—“the outward expression of an inward grace.” God says: “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8. And if such are the thoughts, such will be the expression.Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years: 1862-1876 (vol. 2)
The Picture in the Summer of 1874
2BIO 431.1
I hope that you will receive special help of God. Do not afflict your soul in looking at the things which are seen. Do not allow your mind to dwell upon unpleasant things. “Whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; ...think on these things” (Philippians 4:8).The Review and Herald
June 3, 1884
RH June 3, 1884, par. 1
Text: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 11, 1868
1LtMs, Ms 11, 1868, par. 11
Satan and his host are arrayed against the saints of God, and the armor must not be laid aside for a moment. Our only safety is in being instant in prayer, on the watch every moment. There is no release admitted in this warfare. It is a constant battle for life. 1 Peter 3:10-13; Colossians 4:5, 6; Ephesians 4:1, 2, 3; 5:1, 2, 4; Philippians 4:8; 2 Timothy 3:16; Matthew 5:9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 34, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 34, 1874, par. 7
I hope that you will receive special help of God. Do not afflict your soul in looking at the things which are seen. Do not allow your mind to dwell upon unpleasant things. “Whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; ... think on these things.” Philippians 4:8. We may be miserable or we may be at peace with God and be happy. We have no need to afflict and distress our souls over many things. In doing this our usefulness is lessened one-third. The enemy knows how to manage to dishearten and discourage by presenting before us sad pictures which we should not allow our eyes to rest upon, for it only makes us miserable and does no soul a particle of good. Every particle of selfishness must be separated from us, and we must have the spirit of Christ. I mean to trust in God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 13, 1871
2LtMs, Lt 13, 1871, par. 8
Would you destroy the confidence of God’s people in Brother Andrews because an idea enters your mind that he may not be right? What can he do to get right, which would fully satisfy? Your confessions will not do it, for this he has done. Why can you not leave this matter where God has left it? You have accused me repeatedly of having more sympathy for Brethren Waggoner and Andrews than for yourself. I know that is not true. But why have you felt this, because when you have called up the dark past and talked of these men which would have an influence to injure the faith of your brethren in them, you were, I fully believed, hedging up their way from doing the work for souls God designs that they should do. Such a work I dare not unite with you in doing until I know that God does not longer use them in His cause and work. “Judge not that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” Matthew 7:1. May God help me in this fearful, painfully fearful, time. I am in distress of mind [as to] why God does not reveal Himself to you. I cannot say, but I fear it is because you do not forget the darkness of the past, but gather darkness, unbelief and infidelity by talking over the disagreeable past. Oh, that you would be entreated to forgive and forget. Oh, that you would heed the words of the apostle, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 7, 1882
3LtMs, Ms 7, 1882, par. 26
Oh, let us be Christians! Let us be true, pure, holy, and let sympathy and love into our hearts. This is a work we may all have a part in. This is a work which will tell for time and for eternity. God help us to be true to one another. Satan is always an accuser, one who tears down but never builds up. What if you should now change the course of action and begin to think well and speak well of your brethren and sisters? Would it not be Christlike to manifest this fruit of the Spirit, “thinketh no evil,” “is not puffed up,” “hopeth all things,” “believeth all things,” not of evil, not false reports, but all that is pure, good, and “of good report”? [1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Philippians 4:8.] “Little children,” says the beloved disciple, “love one another.” [1 John 3:11, 18, 23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 9, 1883
4LtMs, Lt 9, 1883, par. 12
You talk of these things which you have suffered. You [go] over the ground again and again. You magnify the difficulties in dwelling upon them. Cease to speak of unpleasant subjects; cease to think upon them; turn away from them. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 1, 1883
4LtMs, Lt 1, 1883, par. 34
My dear brother, you reproduce your trials and past grievances by talking of them. Sister Oyen listens to all these recitals and encourages the conversation by her abundant sympathy. She does you no good in this. Someone should be with you who will call your attention from yourself and from unpleasant subjects and introduce matters of a cheerful character. I tell you, God is not glorified by any such themes of conversation. You magnify your trials; you magnify your self-sacrifice; and magnify the errors of your brethren. “Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report ... think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.] Look away to Jesus, the eternal reward, the immortal inheritance. There is a safe channel for our thoughts. We may think all we please here and with perfect safety.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 21, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 21, 1888, par. 43
When we look at these matters without prejudice, we shall see some things to excuse and some things to commend and fewer to censure. “Finally brethren whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.]Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Love Among Brethren
GW92 443.1
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.]GW92 447.1
Let us diligently cultivate the pure principles of the gospel of Christ,—the religion, not of self-esteem, but of love, meekness, and lowliness of heart. Then we shall love our brethren, and esteem them better than ourselves. Our minds will not dwell on the dark side of their character; we shall not feast on scandal and flying reports. But “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,” we shall “think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 43, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 43, 1888, par. 25
Listen to Paul’s admonitions to the Philippians, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.] Here is advice inspired of Heaven. Will you receive it? Will you act upon it? Will you bring Christ into your hearts and reveal Him in your character?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 63, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 63, 1893, par. 9
The apostle says, “Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: if there be any virtue, and if there by any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.] By beholding we become changed into the image of that upon which we dwell; then let us turn away our eyes from beholding the imperfections of those who are in the church, but who have not the likeness of Christ. We shall not be held responsible because those who make a high profession do not possess corresponding virtues.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 63a, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 63a, 1893, par. 8
Everyone who loves God [and who] will learn in His school His meekness and His lowliness (which is humility of mind) will find rest from all turmoil and confusion, and strife of tongues. But if they do not learn of Jesus, if they do not take the yoke of Christ upon their necks in the place of manufacturing yokes and burdens for themselves which chafe and gall the neck (soul), then the result will be dissatisfaction, complaining, faultfinding, [and] dwelling upon the imperfections of others so earnestly and constantly that they do not behold and see and appreciate the good, the virtues, the desirable, and store their own memory’s hall with pictures that may be looked upon that are pure and lovely and of good report. The apostle exhorts, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: if there be any virtue, and if there by any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 11, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 11, 1897, par. 31
“Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 21, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 21, 1901, par. 16
Before the world and the heavenly universe they give evidence that they are trying to live out the words, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, ... think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 127, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 127, 1902, par. 24
My brethren in the gospel ministry, let us feed the flock of God. Let us bring encouragement and cheerfulness to every heart. Let us turn the eyes of our brethren and sisters away from the unlovely traits of character possessed by nearly every one, and teach them to behold Christ, the One altogether lovely, <the Chiefest among ten thousand>. Let us lead them to think on “whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report.” [Philippians 4:8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 168, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 168, 1902, par. 38
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there by any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” [Philippians 4:8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 29, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 29, 1907, par. 67
“‘Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.’ [Philippians 4:8.]22LtMs, Ms 29, 1907, par. 73
“Let us diligently cultivate the pure principles of the gospel of Christ—the religion, not of self-esteem but of love, meekness, and lowliness of heart. Then we shall love our brethren and esteem them better than ourselves. Our minds will not dwell on scandal and flying reports. But ‘whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,’ we shall ‘think on these things.’” [Philippians 4:8.]—Gospel Workers, 443-447 [1892 ed.].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 57, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 57, 1910, par. 19
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.Lift Him Up
Lift Him Up as the Son of God During the New Year, January 1
LHU 15.1
Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8.Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1354—Counsel Against Foolish Talking and Jesting; Christ our Example
18MR 370.4
Satan and his host are arrayed against the saints of God, and the armor must not be laid aside for a moment. Our only safety is in being instant in prayer, on the watch every moment. There is no release admitted in this warfare. It is a constant battle for life. 1 Peter 3:10-13; Colossians 4:5, 6; Ephesians 4:1, 2, 3; 5:1, 2, 4; Philippians 4:8; 2 Timothy 3:16; Matthew 5:9.Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
MR No. 922—The Sin of Faultfinding
12MR 7.3
Our bodies are built up from what we eat and drink; and the character of our spiritual experience depends on what our minds feed upon and assimilate. By continually dwelling upon the mistakes and defects of others, many become religious dyspeptics. The Lord has bidden us, “Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8). But those who are so busy in dissecting the words and acts of others, to discover all that is objectionable, fail to discern the good and pleasant things. They do not eat of the proper food to promote spiritual vitality and healthy growth.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Philippians 4:1
The Ministry of Healing
Saved by Hope
MH 167.1
“I rejoice that in everything I am of good courage concerning you.” “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;” “being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is right for me to be thus minded on behalf of you all, because I have you in my heart.” “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” “Now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.” Verse 16, A.R.V.; Philippians 1:3-5; 1:6, 7, A.R.V.; 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:8.Radiant Religion
Christian Fellowship Found in Loving One Another, June 1
RRe 154.1
Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. Philippians 4:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 28, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 28, 1897, par. 12
Christ said, “Woe unto you who laugh now, for ye shall mourn and weep.” [Luke 6:25.] This does not contradict the apostle’s statement when he enjoins upon Christians the necessity of rejoicing in the hope set before them in the gospel. The cheerfulness of the Christian is created by the consideration of the great blessings we enjoy because we are children of God. “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved,” he says, “and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” [Philippians 4:1.] The cheerful enlightenment of the mind and the soul temple by the assurance that we have reconciliation with God, the hope we have of everlasting life through Christ, and the pleasure of blessing others, are joys which bring no sorrow with them. Those who indulge in chaffing, mirth, levity, and vanity of spirit, which arise from a superficial, cheap experience, have no real, solid foundation for hope and joy in the love of God and belief of the truth. The giddy, the heedless, the gay, the jovial spirit is not the joy which Paul is anxious that Christ’s followers shall have. This class spend their time in frivolity and excessive levity. Time is passing, the end is near; yet they have not laid up for themselves a good foundation against the time to come that they may lay hold on everlasting life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 89, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 89, 1897, par. 4
“For our conversation is in heaven, from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ; who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. Therefore my brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” [Philippians 3:20-4:1.]