“Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord.” Lamentations 3: 40.

The old standard-bearers knew what it was to wrestle with God in prayer and to enjoy the outpouring of His Spirit. But these are passing off from the stage of action; and who are coming up to fill their places? How is it with the rising generation? Are they converted to God? Are we awake to the work that is going on in the heavenly sanctuary, or are we waiting for some compelling power to come upon the church before we shall arouse? Are we hoping to see the whole church revived? That time will never come.

There are persons in the church who are not converted, and who will not unite in earnest, prevailing prayer. We must enter upon the work individually. We must pray more, and talk less. Iniquity abounds, and the people must be taught not to be satisfied with a form of godliness without the spirit and power. If we are intent upon searching our own hearts, putting away our sins, and correcting our evil tendencies, our souls will not be lifted up unto vanity; we shall be distrustful of ourselves, having an abiding sense that our sufficiency is of God. –Selected Messages, book 1, p. 122.

Question to think about:

Are we aware of the work that is accomplished in the heavenly sanctuary, or are we waiting for some compelling power to come upon the church before we arise?

Are we hoping to see the whole church revived?

Do I daily intent upon searching my own heart, putting away my sins, and correcting my evil tendencies?