Those who heed the warnings of Solomon’s apostasy will shun the first approach of those sins that overcame him. Only obedience to Heaven’s requirements will keep anyone from apostasy. As long as life lasts, we will need to guard the affections and passions firmly. Not for a moment can we be secure except as we rely on God, the life hidden with Christ. Watchfulness and prayer are the safeguards of purity. RR 30.4
All who enter the City of God will enter through the narrow gate, for “there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles.” Revelation 21:27. But none who have fallen need to give up in despair. Aged men and women, once honored of God, may have defiled their souls, sacrificing virtue on the altar of lust, but if they repent, forsake sin, and turn to God, there is hope for them. “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:7. God hates sin, but He loves the sinner. RR 30.5