EGW WritingsPsalms 103

Manuscript Release No. 760

Introductory Note :

MR760 23.5

My health is good and my mind clear. For this I praise the Lord. Generally I write from two or three o’clock in the morning until six or seven at night. On rising I take a sponge bath, dress, and then build my fire. Usually I write all day. The Lord is good and greatly to be praised. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless His holy name” (Psalm 103:1).—Letter 50, 1906. (To W. W. Simpson, January 30, 1906.)

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 34, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 34, 1897, par. 11

We remained here eight days, seeking to help not only this family, but the church. And the Lord’s blessing attended our efforts. We then returned to Boston, and to visit Sister Temple. We found her washing, to earn means to sustain her family. For many months she had been an invalid; but now the first words from her lips were, “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me bless his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] The Lord is good. He whom the Lord blesses in answer to prayer is blessed indeed.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 41, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 41, 1900, par. 11

Both on Sabbath and on Sunday I felt the Spirit of the Lord upon me to speak plainly of the condition of our world. The message God has given me is that many of our churches who know the truth are not converted. Our institutions are established, but perverted principles have so surrounded them that the love of many has waxed cold. The songs of praise and thanksgiving are seldom heard. Joy is to enter into every son and daughter of God, and the truth of Jesus is to be communicated to others. Songs of thanksgiving are to be sung. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me praise his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] He has given us the bright beams of His righteousness; He has pardoned our transgressions; He has healed our diseases; He has crowned us with loving-kindness and tender mercies.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 151, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 151, 1900, par. 9

I would say to you, You are needed just where you are. Do not become restless and uneasy. Constantly improve in everything you take up. Do the work some one must do, and God’s blessing will rest upon you. When you know the future better than you do now, you will be able to say, “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] Keep close to Christ. Improve your opportunities. Learn all you can in the work in which you are engaged. The Lord knows what His people need, and through His chosen agents He manifests His benevolence to men, for He is ever working for the happiness of those who love and serve Him. He is pleased with harmonious service, and when He sees men and women obeying His commandment to love one another without dissimulation, He greatly blesses them.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 157, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 157, 1900, par. 23

O, how I long for a just appreciation of God’s great goodness and love. I praise the Lord, for I know He has been working out His own plan in His mercy and great goodness to me. It has come to me as a surprise, and I am greatly humbled under a sense of my favors as I see the Lord so manifestly working in my behalf. I cannot doubt. “Praise the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, praise his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 156, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 156, 1900, par. 10

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless his holy name,” because our Guidebook is so very plain and definite. [Psalm 103:1.] Others may not follow the plain “It is written,” which Christ used on every occasion to meet the fallen foe, but let us follow the Saviour’s example. The less we give expression to our own human opinions, the purer and more marked with grace will be our conversation. The Lord calls for sanctified speech, because it is a savor of life unto life. He requires every human agent to take special care of his own soul temple, allowing nothing that defileth to enter his lips, using no stimulants or narcotics, refusing to eat many kinds of food at a meal, because thereby a cesspool is made of the stomach.

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 19 (1904)

Lt 379, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, par. 6

“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” Psalm 103:1. Now please let you and me have a thanksgiving service every day. Is it not due Him who has spared your life these many years in answer to the prayer of faith? Give yourself into His hands in your weakness, and trust in Him fully. We will take the Word of God as the grand rule of our lives, the heavenly panacea in our hand. We have tried, you and I united, to bring before minds the true form of doctrine, mingling holiness, mercy, truth, and love. We have tried to present these in simplicity so that souls shall grasp mingled love and holiness—which is simply Christianity in the heart. We have done what we could to present Christianity as the crown and glory of man’s life here in this world, preparatory to entrance into the city of God to be His dear, precious, redeemed ones in the mansions He has gone to prepare for us. Then praise the Lord. Let us praise Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Lt 50, 1906

21LtMs, Lt 50, 1906, par. 10

My health is good and my mind clear. For this I praise the Lord. Generally I write from two or three o’clock in the morning until six or seven at night. On rising, I take a sponge bath, dress, and then build my fire. Usually I write all day. The Lord is good and greatly to be praised. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me praise His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 358, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, par. 10

Our faith is to be expressed in thanksgiving. “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God.” [Psalm 50:23.] “In everything give thanks.” [1 Thessalonians 5:18.] “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] Let expressions of praise flow forth from human lips. We are to rejoice in the Lord more than we have done. Let not the heart remain cold and dull and unimpressive.

Selected Messages Book 2

Messages of Sympathy and Hope to a Faithful Assistant

2SM 252.3

“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name” (Psalm 103:1). Now please let you and me have a thanksgiving service every day. Is it not due Him who has spared your life these many years in answer to the prayer of faith? Give yourself into His hands in your weakness, and trust in Him fully. We will take the Word of God as the grand rule of our lives, the heavenly panacea in our hand. We have tried, you and I united, to bring before minds the true form of doctrine, mingling holiness, mercy, truth, and love. We have tried to present these in simplicity, so that souls shall grasp mingled love and holiness— which is simply Christianity in the heart. We have done what we could do to present Christianity as the crown and glory of man’s life here in this world, preparatory to entrance into the city of God to be His dear, precious redeemed ones in the mansions He has gone to prepare for us. Then praise the Lord. Let us praise Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Ms 61, 1907

22LtMs, Ms 61, 1907, par. 21

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless His holy name,” that there are so many youth before me. [Psalm 103:1.] Let us plead with the Lord in the home, and in the church, that we may be of good courage, and may go forward step by step, onward and upward toward heaven.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 266, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, par. 4

My confidence in God is unshaken, notwithstanding some are departing from the faith, and giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. My mind is clear and my heart is stayed upon God. I thank Him with heart and soul and voice this morning that He blesses me with His peace and grace. I can say with the psalmist, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] He is good, and greatly to be praised. Soon He will come to deliver His saints.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 372, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, par. 9

I am writing this letter by lamplight. Next month, I shall enter my eighty-first year. I can say with the psalmist, “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] I praise the Lord that He gives me my eyesight. I want to cultivate a thankful spirit every moment of my life. The Lord is good, and greatly to be praised.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 182, 1908

23LtMs, Lt 182, 1908, par. 6

I expect to be at the camp-meeting held at Los Angeles, and I hope to see you both there. I meant to have written a letter to Mother Wessels, but I cannot do this now. I will say to her in this, Be of good courage in the Lord. I am glad you can be with your son and his family. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] Let us praise God’s name, that His mercy endureth forever.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 55, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 55, 1911, par. 19

One thing I marked, Brethren Daniells and Prescott represented a large company, who were repeating the words of the 103rd, 104th, 105th, 106th, and 107th Psalms. This company continued to increase in numbers until there was a multitude. Strange things happened, and one by one the company passed through a very narrow gate. Through this gate no one could take even the lightest burden. Some, who were not willing to relinquish their idols, were left behind.

The Retirement Years

Messages of Sympathy and Hope to a Faithful Assistant

RY 148.1

“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name” (Psalm 103:1). Now please let you and me have a thanksgiving service every day. Is it not due Him who has spared your life these many years in answer to the prayer of faith? Give yourself into His hands in your weakness, and trust in Him fully. We will take the Word of God as the grand rule of our lives, the heavenly panacea in our hand. We have tried, you and I united, to bring before minds the true form of doctrine, mingling holiness, mercy, truth, and love. We have tried to present these in simplicity, so that souls shall grasp mingled love and holiness—which is simply Christianity in the heart. We have done what we could do to present Christianity as the crown and glory of man’s life here in this world, preparatory to entrance into the city of God to be His dear, precious redeemed ones in the mansions He has gone to prepare for us. Then praise the Lord. Let us praise Him.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 9, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 9, 1886, par. 17

God wants to pour into your souls the light and glory of His presence. He wants that His joy shall remain in you and that your joy may be full, that when you meet with your brethren and sisters you can say, “Hear what the Lord has done for me. He has given me rich experience, that if I seek Him for His blessing, it will come.” Then you begin to talk of Christ’s coming, and the end of all things at hand, and how we are getting ready for His appearing. Then you will begin to talk of that heavenly city; you will talk of the tree of life, in the midst of the paradise of God, and you will talk of the King in His beauty, with His kingly crown, and of the riches that are to be given to the children of God; you will talk of that stream that goeth out from the throne of God, and then it would be, “Praise the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me give Him glory.” [Psalm 146:1; 103:1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 78a, 1888

5LtMs, Lt 78a, 1888, par. 7

I hope you will be strong in faith and courage and have good hope. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me praise his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] This is the language of my heart in reference to you. Hold on, without a doubt, to the promises of God. I must believe, you must believe.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 19, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 19, 1892, par. 66

“Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] I am compassed with infirmities, yet I am of good courage in the Lord. Although the enemy is permitted to afflict me, yet I have great blessings from day to day. My head is free from pain, shielded by the hand of the Lord. My shoulders and arms are full of pain, but my right forearm from the elbow to the tips of my fingers is free from pain. I am able to do much important writing.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 33, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 33, 1892, par. 53

“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” Psalm 103:1. I am compassed with infirmities, yet I am of good courage in the Lord. Although the enemy is permitted to afflict me, yet I have great blessings from day to day. My head is free from pain, shielded by the hand of the Lord. My shoulders and arms are full of pain, but my right forearm, from the elbow to the tips of my fingers, is free from pain, I am able to do much important writing.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 88, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 88, 1893, par. 7

The Lord has been my front guard and my rearward. I have had such rich blessings during my affliction. As I would venture to walk out by faith and trust in the Lord, His Holy Spirit has given me the words to speak from His own Word, and has blessed me and those who were listening. I felt the deep moving of the Holy Spirit; angels seemed to strengthen me in a most decided manner; the people were blessed and I have reason to bless the Lord for the conversions at that meeting—souls were saved. I could not have endured the pain of standing, but it was removed by His healing grace. I was free from pain and my mind was clear and the grace of God was upon me. “Bless the Lord O my soul, and all that is within me bless his holy name!” [Psalm 103:1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 81, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 81, 1893, par. 66

Slept unusually well through the night, and I thank my heavenly Father for the blessing of good health and strength and courage in the Lord. “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] About nine o’clock the American mail was brought in by the carrier and we had a feast in reading the church papers and letters from friends. We had a pleasant day Sabbath.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 26—From the Red Sea to Sinai

PP 294.2

Says the apostle Paul, “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.” Hebrews 3:12. In view of all that God has wrought for us, our faith should be strong, active, and enduring. Instead of murmuring and complaining, the language of our hearts should be, “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Psalm 103:1, 2.

The Upward Look

Our Merciful God, July 17

UL 212.1

Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. Psalm 103:1, 2.

Christian Education

Chapter 16—The Necessity of Doing Our Best

CE 128.1

We come unto God in the name of Jesus by special invitation, and he welcomes us to his audience chamber, and imparts to the humble and contrite heart that faith in Christ by which he is justified, and Jesus blots out as a thick cloud his transgressions by the bright sunshine of his love, and the comforted heart exclaims, “O Lord, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.” [Isaiah 12:1.] He will understand in experience the words of Paul, “With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” [Romans 10:10.] He then becomes a sanctified agent that God can employ to work out his noble purposes. He then represents Christ, holding forth to the world his mercy and love. He has a testimony that he is desirous that others should hear, and in the language of the psalmist, he says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercy.” [Psalm 103:1-4.]

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

In Prayer

CT 242.4

Man then becomes an agent whom God can employ to work out His purposes. He represents Christ, holding forth to the world His mercy and love. He has a testimony that he desires others to hear. In the language of the psalmist he says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with loving-kindness and tender mercies.” Psalm 103:1-4.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 5—Healing of the Soul

MH 79.2

“Bless the Lord, O my soul:
And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities;
Who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction;...
So that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
The Lord executeth righteousness
And judgment for all that are oppressed....
He hath not dealt with us after our sins;
Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities....
Like as a father pitieth his children,
So the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.
For He knoweth our frame;
He remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:1-14.

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

MR No. 1333—Diary Fragment—February to May, 1902; The Spirit of Thanksgiving; Importance of Unity

18MR 214.3

Elmshaven, St. Helena, March 30, 1902—I praise the Lord this morning. I have awakened at two o’clock, the usual hour of awaking for some time, and now I thought I must change this order of things, for I cannot keep up this way, writing so early. I become sleepy in the daytime and yet cannot sleep usually, but I did sleep yesterday afternoon. Psalm 103, this is the language of my heart: [Verses 1-5, quoted].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 221, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 221, 1902, par. 12

I praise the Lord this morning. I have awakened at two o’clock, the usual hour of awaking for some time, and now I thought I must change this order of things, for I cannot keep up this way, writing so early. I become sleepy in the daytime and yet cannot sleep usually, but I did sleep yesterday afternoon. (Psalm 103), this is the language of my heart:

17LtMs, Ms 221, 1902, par. 13

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is
Within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities:
Who healeth all thy diseases:
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction;
Who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
So that thy youth is renewed like the eagles’s.” [Verses 1-5.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)

Lt 47, 1909

24LtMs, Lt 47, 1909, par. 12

Read Psalms 71, 72, 73, and 78. Let the words become familiar to your minds, also Psalm 90-93, and 103 and 104.

From Eternity Past

Chapter 26—Israel Meets With Difficulties

EP 202.3

Our Lord does not tell us there are no dangers in our path, but He points us to a never-failing refuge. He invites the weary and care-laden, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Lay off the yoke of anxiety and care that you have placed on your own neck, and “take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matthew 11:28, 29. Instead of murmuring and complaining, the language of our hearts should be, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Psalm 103:2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 3, 1875

2LtMs, Lt 3, 1875, par. 6

Uriah, you then came into the field and began to work with us. Immediately we seemed to be in meeting. A large number were attending. James seemed to be in the center of the congregation. Brother Smith was upon the platform. You arose and commenced singing. The tune was, “And are you not afraid some storm your bark will overwhelm,” etc., but different words appropriate for the occasion. You seemed to feel deeply the sentiment of the hymn. You seemed to be very much in earnest and animated, and finally you seemed to be lost to yourself, for the power and Spirit of God was upon you. A light shone all around you. You began to draw near to where my husband was sitting, saying at every step, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” [Psalm 103:2.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 177, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 177, 1899, par. 14

The people are highly pleased with the meetings. All feel that the impression made is excellent. They say that everywhere these meetings are talked of with great surprise. The Bible is preached, and yet they hear of things which they never thought were in the Bible. While in the meetings the people listen as if spellbound. We feel to say, “Praise the Lord, O my soul; and forget not all his benefits.” [Psalm 103:2.] Oh, I am thankful for this! We did want a good impression made, and the Lord has made this for us.

My Life Today

Forgiveness of Sin Brings Healing, May 30

ML 154.1

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Psalm 103:2, 3.

Reflecting Christ

Christ Brought Spiritual and Physical Healing, January 11

RC 25.1

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Psalm 103:2, 3.

Our High Calling

Sure Remedy for the Soul, January 30

OHC 36.1

Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases. Psalm 103:3.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 27—“Thou Canst Make Me Clean”

DA 270.2

Jesus came to “destroy the works of the devil.” “In Him was life,” and He says, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” He is “a quickening spirit.” 1 John 3:8; John 1:4; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45. And He still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick, and spoke forgiveness to the sinner. He “forgiveth all thine iniquities,” He “healeth all thy diseases.” Psalm 103:3.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 27—The First Leper to Be Cleansed by Christ

HLv 175.3

Jesus still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick and spoke forgiveness to the sinner. He “forgiveth all thine iniquities”; He “healeth all thy diseases.” Psalm 103:3; see 1 John 3:8; John 1:4-10; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45.

The Faith I Live By

God’s Dwelling Place, August 9

FLB 227.7

He it is who “forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies.” Psalm 103:3, 4....

The Ministry of Healing

The Source of Healing

MH 113.4

He it is who “forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with loving-kindness and tender mercies.” Psalm 103:3, 4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 9, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 9, 1892, par. 79

When we are connected with Christ by faith, we can no longer be fitful and selfish and exacting. We shall view our fellowmen in a new light. The love of Christ flowing into the heart makes men kind and sympathetic and loving toward all. They have a different type of character, a Christlikeness, a heart glowing with love, because they are receiving the healing beams of the Sun of Righteousness. God is taking away their sins. It is He, “who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies.” [Psalm 103:3, 4.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 63, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, par. 12

Thank the Lord, O my soul! Praise His holy name. In Him we can trust. We fear not, neither are we dismayed. He daily loadeth us with benefits. Shall we grasp them all, and bear them away as our own, selfishly consuming them upon ourselves? He “crowneth us with lovingkindness and tender mercy.” [Psalm 103:4.] Wearing the crown of His royal favor, let us glorify Him by imparting to others the abundance He has bestowed upon us.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Forbearing One, August 24

JNN 250.1

The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.—Psalm 103:8

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 39, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, par. 21

The Lord is very pitiful and of tender mercy. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.” “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. ... As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” [Psalm 103:13, 8, 12.] The Lord looks upon His redeemed heritage with pity. He is ready to pardon their sins if they will surrender and be loyal to Him. In order to be just and yet the justifier of the sinner, He lays the punishment of sin on His only begotten Son.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

His Loving-Kindness

8T 272.5

“As for man, his days are as grass;
As a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.
For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone;
And the place thereof shall know it no more.
But the loving-kindness of Jehovah is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him,
And His righteousness unto children’s children;
To such as keep His covenant,
And to those that remember His precepts to do them.” Psalm 103:8-18, A. R. V.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Lt 124, 1902

17LtMs, Lt 124, 1902, par. 14

God is plenteous in mercy. “He will not always chide, neither will he keep his anger forever.” [Psalm 103:9.] Just as soon as men heed His warnings, and set their own hearts in order, He will make the rough places plain before them. It is God that is dealing with His people. Trials as well as blessings come from Him. His hand is to be acknowledged in all.

17LtMs, Lt 124, 1902, par. 18

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, and I will not hold my peace. These words were repeated: “But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting unto them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children; to such as keep his covenant, and to them that remember his commandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens and his kingdom ruleth over all. Bless the Lord, Ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts, ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure. Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul.” [Verses 17-22.]

Prayer

“Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.” Luke 11:4.

Pr 298.1

But forgiveness has a broader meaning than many suppose. When God gives the promise that He “will abundantly pardon,” He adds, as if the meaning of that promise exceeded all that we could comprehend: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:7-9. God’s forgiveness is not merely a judicial act by which He sets us free from condemnation. It is not only forgiveness for sin, but reclaiming from sin. It is the outflow of redeeming love that transforms the heart. David had the true conception of forgiveness when he prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. And again he says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.”—Luke 11:4.

MB 114.1

But forgiveness has a broader meaning than many suppose. When God gives the promise that He “will abundantly pardon,” He adds, as if the meaning of that promise exceeded all that we could comprehend: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:7-9. God’s forgiveness is not merely a judicial act by which He sets us free from condemnation. It is not only forgiveness for sin, but reclaiming from sin. It is the outflow of redeeming love that transforms the heart. David had the true conception of forgiveness when he prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. And again he says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 6, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 6, 1888, par. 9

I know that God hears the prayers of His people. I know that He answers them. But He cannot bless us while we are cherishing selfishness; and what saith the Scriptures? “If I regard iniquity in my heart the Lord will not hear me.” [Psalm 66:18.] But if we put away all self-exaltation, all self-righteousness, and come in living connection with God, the righteousness of God will be imputed to us. “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” [Psalm 103:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 9, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 9, 1889, par. 12

I want you to come off conquerors, and I greatly desire that your dear children shall be encircled in the arms of Infinite Love. I want them to be lambs in the fold of Christ. We must elevate the standard. If your children will give their young hearts to God, He will accept the offering; He will bless and save them. If your elder daughter will surrender to Jesus her will, her way, and her affections, if she will seek the Lord with her whole heart, He will be found of her, and He will say, “All thy sins are forgiven thee.” Then the language of her heart will be, “O Lord, I will praise Thee; though Thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and Thou comfortest me.” [Isaiah 12:1.] May not this be true indeed in the case of your daughter? “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” [Psalm 103:12.] “Being justified by faith, we have peace with God.” [Romans 5:1.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 43, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 43, 1892, par. 19

We ask God to forgive us our sins, and then we must believe He does forgive them, because He has promised that He would. He casts them from the light of His countenance behind His back, and He removes them from us, “as far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” [Psalm 103:12.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 94, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 94, 1899, par. 40

Now is the time for us to make sure work for eternity. Christ is pleading in our behalf. Shall we offer ourselves as a free, acceptable sacrifice? Shall we cover up our sins, or shall we confess them, that we may find mercy and grace to help in every time of need? While Christ is pleading in our behalf, shall we not put away and loathe the sins that caused the Son of God such great suffering? While Jesus is showing compassion for us, shall we not have compassion for ourselves and for our brethren? Shall we not pour out our souls in repentance and contrition, and receive the promise of a new heart? God says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far will I remove thy transgressions from thee.” [Psalm 103:12.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 16—“Lost, and Is Found”

COL 204.2

In his restless youth the prodigal looked upon his father as stern and severe. How different his conception of him now! So those who are deceived by Satan look upon God as hard and exacting. They regard Him as watching to denounce and condemn, as unwilling to receive the sinner so long as there is a legal excuse for not helping him. His law they regard as a restriction upon men’s happiness, a burdensome yoke from which they are glad to escape. But he whose eyes have been opened by the love of Christ will behold God as full of compassion. He does not appear as a tyrannical, relentless being, but as a father longing to embrace his repenting son. The sinner will exclaim with the Psalmist, “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” Psalm 103:13.

Sons and Daughters of God

In Demonstrating God’s Parental Attributes, May 12

SD 139.1

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. Psalm 103:13.

That I May Know Him

A Tender, Merciful Father, September 14

TMK 263.1

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. Psalm 103:13.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“Love your enemies.”—Matthew 5:44.

MB 74.1

He pointed His hearers to the Ruler of the universe, under the new name, “Our Father.” He would have them understand how tenderly the heart of God yearned over them. He teaches that God cares for every lost soul; that “like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” Psalm 103:13. Such a conception of God was never given to the world by any religion but that of the Bible. Heathenism teaches men to look upon the Supreme Being as an object of fear rather than of love—a malign deity to be appeased by sacrifices, rather than a Father pouring upon His children the gift of His love. Even the people of Israel had become so blinded to the precious teaching of the prophets concerning God that this revelation of His paternal love was as an original subject, a new gift to the world.

The General Conference Bulletin

December 1, 1895

GCB December 1, 1895, Art. A, par. 11

In his wild, restless youth, the prodigal looked upon his father as stern and severe; how different his conception of him now! So the heart that is deceived by Satan looks upon God as hard and exacting; his law is regarded as a restriction upon men’s happiness, a burdensome yoke, from which they are glad to escape. But he whose eyes have been opened by the love of Christ, will behold God as full of love and compassion. He does not appear as a tyrannical, relentless being, but as a father longing to embrace his repenting son. The sinner will cry with the psalmist, “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.” Psalm 103:13.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

“Praise Ye the Lord”

2TT 108.3

God is love. He has a care for the creatures He has formed. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” Psalm 103:13. “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” 1 John 3:1. What a precious privilege is this, that we may be sons and daughters of the Most High, heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. Then let us not mourn and grieve because in this life we are not free from disappointments and afflictions.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 31, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 31, 1890, par. 4

In the weak state of your body, the enemy may try to make his voice heard that the Lord does not love you. O, he does love you. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord loves and pities those who put their trust in Him.” [Psalm 103:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12, 1893, par. 28

While Christ is our officiating priest in the heavenly sanctuary, we may have faith in Jesus Christ. We may repent of our sins, “Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:1.] Every provision has been made for every necessity of our moral and spiritual nature. Truth in Jesus Christ reveals to us “God is love” and that He careth for us. [1 John 4:8; 1 Peter 5:7.] “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth those who fear him.” [Psalm 103:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 155, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 155, 1894, par. 3

We feel sorry, children, that we have to be so far away from you whom we love so much, but the Lord loves you better than it is possible for us to love you, and He will care for you and will bless you and give you His peace and make you happy. When the enemy tempts you, do not let him gain the victory, but tell him you love Jesus and Jesus loves you, and you will not grieve His Holy Spirit when He loves you and cares for you. The angels of the Lord are round about you day and night “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.” [Psalm 103:13.] Let the sunshine of the Saviour’s love come into your hearts; speak like the pleasant sunshine.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 113, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 113, 1901, par. 22

When Christ abides in the soul, cherished prejudices are swept away. O, what a forgiving, compassionate Saviour we have! Why do we not speak forth His praises? “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.” [Psalm 103:13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 132, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 132, 1902, par. 10

In all the sufferings and afflictions of man, there is an Eye to pity, a Heart to love. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” [Psalm 103:13.] God’s tenderest care is exercised over us. He pities us in our weakness and in our sorrow. We may be despondent, even despairing; the heavy clouds of affliction may be over us; but there is light ahead. Beyond the gloom is a sympathetic, compassionate Friend, One who does not willingly grieve or afflict the children of men.

Education

Chapter 27—Deportment

Ed 245.1

“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” Psalm 103:13. “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you.” Isaiah 66:13.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 77, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 77, 1903, par. 3

“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” [Psalm 103:13.] The strength of the Lord is revealed by His gentleness and condescension and by His incarnation. He was “God manifest in the flesh.” [1 Timothy 3:16.] Think of the love He manifested in receiving so kindly the mothers that the disciples would have sent away when they came bringing their children to Him that He might lay His hands on them and bless them. “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not,” He said to the disciples; “for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Compassionate Intercessor, November 22

JNN 343.1

As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him.—Psalm 103:13

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Manner of Labor

GW92 407.2

Jesus calls to every wanderer, “My son, give me thine heart;” “Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings.” The youth cannot be happy without the love of Jesus. He is waiting with pitying tenderness to hear the confessions of the wayward, and to accept their penitence. He watches for some return of gratitude from us, as the mother watches for the smile of recognition from her beloved child. The great God teaches us to call him Father. He would have us understand how earnestly and tenderly his heart yearns over us, in all our trials and temptations. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.” [Psalm 103:13.] The mother might sooner forget her child, than God could forget one soul that trusts him.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Entering into the Feelings of the Youth

GW 209.2

Jesus calls to every wanderer, “My son, give Me thine heart.” [Proverbs 23:26.] “Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings.” [Jeremiah 3:22.] The youth cannot be truly happy without the love of Jesus. He is waiting with pitying tenderness to hear the confessions of the wayward, and to accept their penitence. He watches for some return of gratitude from them, as the mother watches for the smile of recognition from her beloved babe. The great God teaches us to call Him Father. He would have us understand how earnestly and tenderly His heart yearns over us in all our trials and temptations. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” [Psalm 103:13.] The mother might sooner forget her child than God could forget one soul that trusts Him.

In Heavenly Places

The Most Exalted Theme, January 8

HP 14.5

In all the sufferings and afflictions of man there is an Eye to pity, a Heart to love. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him” (Psalm 103:13). God’s tenderest care is exercised over us. He pities us in our weakness and in our sorrow. We may be despondent, even despairing; the heavy clouds of affliction may be over us; but there is light ahead. Beyond the gloom is a sympathetic, compassionate Friend, One who does not willingly grieve or afflict the children of men.12Manuscript 132, 1902.

Our Father Cares

Families to Reflect the Goodness of God, November 15

OFC 331.1

As the father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those that fear him. Psalm 103:13, N.I.V.

Reflecting Christ

God’s Law of Forgiving Love, February 27

RC 72.5

He pointed His hearers to the Ruler of the universe, under the new name, “Our Father.” He would have them understand how tenderly the heart of God yearned over them. He teaches ... that “like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him” (Psalm 103:13). Such a conception of God was never given to the world by any religion but that of the Bible. Heathenism teaches men to look upon the Supreme Being as an object of fear rather than of love—a malign deity to be appeased by sacrifices, rather than a Father pouring upon His children the gift of His love. Even the people of Israel had become so blinded to the precious teaching of the prophets concerning God that this revelation of His paternal love was as an original subject, a new gift to the world....

Reflecting Christ

Families to Reflect the Goodness of God, June 20

RC 185.1

As the father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those that fear him. Psalm 103:13, N.I.V.

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 58—“Thou Hast Left Thy First Love”

1SM 371.2

Many sermons preached upon the claims of the law have been without Christ, and this lack has made the truth inefficient in converting souls. Without the grace of Christ it is impossible to take one step in obedience to the law of God. Then how necessary that the sinner hear of the love and power of his Redeemer and Friend! While the ambassador for Christ should plainly declare the claims of the law, he should make it understood that none can be justified without the atoning sacrifice of Christ. Without Christ there can be only condemnation and a fearful looking for a fiery indignation, and final separation from the presence of God. But he whose eyes have been opened to see the love of Christ, will behold the character of God as full of love and compassion. God will not appear as a tyrannical, relentless being, but as a father longing to embrace his repenting son. The sinner will cry with the psalmist, “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him” (Psalm 103:13). All despair is swept from the soul when Christ is seen in His true character.

Counsels on Health

A Most Solemn Experience

CH 375.2

The Lord “doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.” Lamentations 3:33. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him. For He knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:13, 14. He knows our heart, for He reads every secret of the soul. He knows whether or not those for whom petitions are offered would be able to endure the trial and test that would come upon them if they lived. He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid away to sleep before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon our world. This is another reason why we should say after our earnest petition; “Nevertheless not my will, but Thine, be done.” Luke 22:42. Such a petition will never be registered in heaven as a faithless prayer.

The Three Angels’ Messages

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord”

3AM 185.5

Many will be laid away to sleep—The Lord “doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.” [Lamentations 3:33.] “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him, for he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:13, 14.] He knows our heart, for He reads every secret of the soul. He knows whether or not those for whom petitions are offered would be able to endure the trial and test that would come upon them if they lived. He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid away to sleep in Jesus before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon our world. This is another reason why we should always say after our earnest petition, “Nevertheless not my will, but thine, O Lord, be done.” [Luke 22:42.] Such a petition will never be registered in heaven as a faithless prayer.

Our Father Cares

The Arrow of Death, March 15

OFC 86.2

The Lord “doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.” Lamentations 3:33. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:13, 14. He knows our heart, for He reads every secret of the soul.... He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid away to sleep before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon our world....

The Faith I Live By

The Arrow of Death, June 14

FLB 171.2

The Lord “doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.” Lamentations 3:33. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:13, 14. He knows our heart, for He reads every secret of the soul.... He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid away to sleep before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon our world....

The Ministry of Healing

God’s Promises

MH 123.1

“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him. For He knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:13, 14.

The Ministry of Healing

Chapter 16—Prayer for the Sick

MH 225.2

“Like as a father pitieth his children,
So the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.
For He knoweth our frame;
He remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:13, 14.

With God at Dawn

He Remembereth We Are Dust, February 12

WGD 45.1

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust. Psalm 103:13, 14.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 49, 1879

3LtMs, Lt 49, 1879, par. 25

Long before the precious Saviour appeared in our world in fashion as a man, representing the Father by His meek and gentle character, His pitying love, and unparalleled benevolence, the pen of inspiration has shown us the true character of God. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:13, 14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Ms 26a, 1892

7LtMs, Ms 26a, 1892, par. 9

The Lord “doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.” [Lamentations 3:33.] “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him, for he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:13, 14.] He knows our heart, for He reads every secret of the soul. He knows whether or not those for whom petitions are offered would be able to endure the trial and test that would come upon them if they lived. He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid away to sleep in Jesus before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon our world. This is another reason why we should always say after our earnest petition, “Nevertheless not my will, but thine, O Lord, be done.” [Luke 22:42.] Such a petition will never be registered in heaven as a faithless prayer.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 4, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 4, 1894, par. 2

I believe that there is hope for you in God. I cannot for a moment think that the Lord would have you continue in a work which does not seem to prove a relief either to your self or others. But if it is your duty to go into the field as a laborer to help your people, or to help others, the Lord will open the way. I hope you will pray much and lean heavily upon the Source of your strength. The Lord is good, He is of tender pity, and of great kindness. He does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him; for he knoweth our frame, he remembereth that we are but dust.” [Psalm 103:13, 14.] If relief is offered you, accept it as from God. The heart of Christ is full of tenderness toward His heritage.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 1, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 1, 1897, par. 5

“Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame, he remembereth that we are dust. As for man, his days are as grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone, and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children.” [Psalm 103:13-17.] This testifies of the influence a father and mother may have over their children. “To such as keep his covenant, and to them that remember his commandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom ruleth over all.” [Verses 18, 19.]

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 25—Talents

COL 362.5

Our heavenly Father requires no more nor less than He has given us ability to do. He lays upon His servants no burdens that they are not able to bear. “He knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.” Psalm 103:14. All that He claims from us we through divine grace can render.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Love Among Brethren

GW92 446.3

Church membership will not guarantee us heaven. We must abide in Christ, and his love must abide in us. We must every day make advancement in the formation of symmetrical character. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] As God is perfect in his sphere, so are we required to be perfect in ours. There is a great work before us individually, to reach this high standard. Our attainments will be just in accordance with the effort we make, our character just what we choose to make it; for through the divine aid promised us, we can overcome. Jesus “knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:14.] In pitying tenderness he will give us the help and strength we need.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Danger from Overwork

GW 244.2

God’s work is world-wide; it calls for every jot and tittle of the ability and power that we have. There is danger that His workers will abuse their powers as they see that the field is ripe for the harvest; but the Lord does not require this. After His servants have done their best, they may say, The harvest truly is great, and the laborers are few; but God “knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:14.]

This Day With God

You Can Conquer, September 6

TDG 258.3

Let us humble our souls before God. Let us work with an eye single to His glory. Let His praise be continually on our lips, for the benefits that He bestows are daily renewed, and should be acknowledged with thanksgiving. God is longsuffering and of tender mercy. Should He deal with us according to our perversity, according to our foolish, erratic course, our changeableness, where would we be? But “he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust” (Psalm 103:14). Remember that no human being is of himself sufficient to stand against the wily foe. Hide in God, and be sure that the Holy Spirit is with you. You can conquer the enemy only as the Lord goes before you.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 34, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 34, 1890, par. 36

God, who searches the heart, takes notice of its desires. He will forgive your past life of frivolity, your pretense, your deception, if you will now repent and seek His grace, that you may live unto Him, and Him alone. “The Lord looketh upon the heart.” [1 Samuel 16:7.] “He remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:14.] “I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their own thoughts, because they have not harkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it.” [Jeremiah 6:19.] This need not be your case, but it will be unless you turn square about. You cannot make this change yourself, but Jesus can and will do this, if you ask Him and submit yourself wholly to Him, not seeking your own will but God’s will, no longer trying to please self but educating yourself to be useful. Your time is golden and should be spent in seeking to lay up a treasure in the heavens. You must forget your darling self; live no longer to please yourself, but to please God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 67, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 67, 1896, par. 30

Every true servant of God will guard closely the citadel of the soul, lest the things of earth steal his affections from God. God lays no burden upon His servants that they are not able to bear. “He knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:14.] “In the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength” [Isaiah 26:4], and this strength He waits to bestow upon every asking soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 195, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 195, 1903, par. 18

God is longsuffering and of tender mercy. Should He deal with us according to our perversity, according to our foolish, erratic course, our changeableness, where would we be? But “He knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.” [Psalm 103:14.]

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 73—The Last Years of David

PP 754.5

Man “fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not,” “but the word of our God shall stand forever.” “The mercy of Jehovah is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him, and His righteousness unto children’s children; to such as keep His covenant, and to those that remember His commandments to do them.” Job 14:2; Isaiah 40:8; Psalm 103:17, 18.

To Be Like Jesus

Show Divine Love by Being Merciful, June 24

BLJ 187.1

But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children, to such as keep His covenant, and to those who remember His commandments to do them. Psalm 103:17, 18, NKJV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 50a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 50a, 1897, par. 54

“All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his testimonies.” [Psalm 25:10.] “The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children, to such as keep his covenant and to those who remember his commandments to do them.” [Psalm 103:17, 18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 50, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 50, 1897, par. 52

“All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his testimonies.” [Psalm 25:10.] “The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children, to such as keep his covenant and to those who remember his commandments to do them.” [Psalm 103:17, 18.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 2, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 2, 1899, par. 13

“The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children; to such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all. Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts, ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure. Bless the Lord, all his works, in all places of his dominion.” [Psalm 103:17-22.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Our Ruler in the Heavens, February 5

AG 44.1

The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all. Psalm 103:19.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 2—The Temple and Its Dedication

PK 50.3

“Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary:
Who is so great a God as our God?
Thou art the God that doest wonders:
Thou hast declared Thy strength among the people.” Psalm 33:12-14; 103:19; 77:13, 14.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Rightful King, December 26

JNN 378.1

The Lord has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.—Psalm 103:19

The Great Controversy

Chapter 31—Agency of Evil Spirits

GC 511.3

We are informed in Scripture as to the number, and the power and glory, of the heavenly beings, of their connection with the government of God, and also of their relation to the work of redemption. “The Lord hath prepared His throne in the heavens; and His kingdom ruleth over all.” And, says the prophet, “I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne.” In the presence chamber of the King of kings they wait—“angels, that excel in strength,” “ministers of His, that do His pleasure,” “hearkening unto the voice of His word.” Psalm 103:19-21; Revelation 5:11. Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands, were the heavenly messengers beheld by the prophet Daniel. The apostle Paul declared them “an innumerable company.” Daniel 7:10; Hebrews 12:22. As God’s messengers they go forth, like “the appearance of a flash of lightning,” (Ezekiel 1:14), so dazzling their glory, and so swift their flight. The angel that appeared at the Saviour’s tomb, his countenance “like lightning, and his raiment white as snow,” caused the keepers for fear of him to quake, and they “became as dead men.” Matthew 28:3, 4. When Sennacherib, the haughty Assyrian, reproached and blasphemed God, and threatened Israel with destruction, “it came to pass that night, that the angel of the Lord went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand.” There were “cut off all the mighty men of valor, and the leaders and captains,” from the army of Sennacherib. “So he returned with shame of face to his own land.” 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chronicles 32:21.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 31—Agency of Evil Spirits

GC88 511.3

We are informed in Scripture as to the number, and the power and glory, of the heavenly beings, of their connection with the government of God, and also of their relation to the work of redemption. “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.” And, says the prophet, “I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne.” In the presence-chamber of the King of kings they wait—“angels that excel in strength,” “ministers of his, that do his pleasure,” “hearkening unto the voice of his word.” [Psalm 103:19-21; Revelation 5:11.] Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands, were the heavenly messengers beheld by the prophet Daniel. The apostle Paul declared them “an innumerable company.” [Daniel 7:10; Hebrews 12:22.] As God’s messengers they go forth, like “the appearance of a flash of lightning,” [Ezekiel 1:14.] so dazzling their glory, and so swift their flight. The angel that appeared at the Saviour’s tomb, his countenance “like lightning, and his raiment white as snow,” caused the keepers for fear of him to quake, and they “became as dead men.” [Matthew 28:3, 4.] When Sennacherib, the haughty Assyrian, reproached and blasphemed God, and threatened Israel with destruction, “it came to pass that night, that the angel of the Lord went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand.” There were “cut off all the mighty men of valor, and the leaders and captains,” from the army of Sennacherib. “So he returned with shame of face to his own land.” [2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chronicles 32:21.]

The Truth About Angels

The Number and Power of Angels

TA 9.3

We are informed in Scripture as to the number, and the power and glory, of the heavenly beings, of their connection with the government of God, and also of their relation to the work of redemption. “The Lord hath prepared His throne in the heavens; and His kingdom ruleth over all.” And, says the prophet, “I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne.” In the presence chamber of the King of kings they wait—“angels, that excel in strength,” “ministers of His, that do His pleasure,” “hearkening unto the voice of His word.” Psalm 103:19-21; Revelation 5:11.

In Heavenly Places

I Have a Guardian Angel, April 4

HP 101.1

Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Psalm 103:20.

Radiant Religion

Angels Labor with Us in Presenting Jesus, July 28

RRe 211.1

Bless the Lord, ye His angels, that excel in strength, that do His commandments, hearkening unto the voice of His word. Psalm 103:20.

My Life Today

Angels Employ My Hands to Do His Work, October 28

ML 305.1

Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure. Psalm 103:20, 21.

From Here to Forever

Chapter 31—Evil Spirits

HF 315.3

Says the prophet, “I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne.” In the presence of the King of kings they wait—“ministers of his, that do his pleasure,” “hearkening unto the voice of his word,” “an innumerable company.” Revelation 5:11; Psalm 103:20, 21; Hebrews 12:22. As God’s messengers they go forth, like “the appearance of a flash of lightning,” so swift their flight. The angel that appeared at the Saviour’s tomb, his countenance “like lightning,” caused the keepers for fear of him to quake, and they “became as dead men.” When Sennacherib blasphemed God and threatened Israel, “the angel of the Lord went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand.” Ezekiel 1:14; Matthew 28:3, 4; 2 Kings 19:35.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Angels Help

GrH_c 6.7

Says the prophet, “I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne.” In the presence of the King of kings they wait—“ministers of his, that do his pleasure,” “hearkening unto the voice of his word,” “an innumerable company.” Revelation 5:11; Psalm 103:20, 21; Hebrews 12:22. As God’s messengers they go forth, like “the appearance of a flash of lightning,” so swift their flight. The angel that appeared at the Saviour’s tomb, his countenance “like lightning,” caused the keepers for fear of him to quake, and they “became as dead men.” When Sennacherib blasphemed God and threatened Israel, “the angel of the Lord went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand.” Ezekiel 1:14; Matthew 28:3, 4; 2 Kings 19:35.

Radiant Religion

Heaven’s Host and God’s Ministers Rejoice in Service, July 29

RRe 212.1

Bless ye the Lord, all ye His hosts; ye ministers of His, that do His pleasure. Psalm 103:21.