MR No. 1369—Unity in the Home and in the Church

(Written June 24, 1903, at Sanitarium, California.)

Let those who have heard the truth for these last days study carefully the fourth chapter of Deuteronomy, and take heed to the warnings contained therein. Many who have heard the truth treat it as a garment, which they may put on at certain times, and lay off again at will.19MR 67.1

In the Word of God a high standard is presented for our attainment. If our natural temperaments are under control, if we are guided by the Holy Spirit, we shall follow a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” We shall seek diligently to live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. We have no time to spend in trifling and frivolous matters.19MR 67.2

Let all heed the invitation of Christ: “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 11:29].19MR 67.3

Do not strive to have your own way. If other people do not agree with you, do not make a mountain [out] of a mole-hill and feel that you can no longer be united with them in the Lord Jesus. Do not lose your affection and love for those who do not wholly agree with you. Let not the little differences that arise be made an occasion to break up the unity that should exist among brethren. This is the work of Satan. When you quarrel with your brethren, when you are selfish and are jealous if you do not get your own way, you show that you are not meek and lowly.19MR 67.4

Do not allow your individuality to become prominent. If differences arise, do not insist on having your own way, thereby creating strife. Let your individual preferences be unexpressed, when you see that they would create discord.19MR 68.1

Unless some question of vital importance is involved, be ready to yield your own opinion rather than to create a dispute. Even though you may by argument gain your point, yet you may place a burden upon someone else, far outweighing the advantage you think you will gain. It is hard to heal the wounds caused by harsh words.19MR 68.2

Often you may preserve peace by guarding the tongue. Never introduce into your conversation matters that will create strife, hurting your own soul and the souls of others. Keep your differences to yourself. Tell them only to God.19MR 68.3

Do not let Satan mold and fashion you. He ever stands ready to put evil insinuations into your mind. He seeks to justify himself in his course of rebellion against God, by demonstrating that human beings upon the earth can no more keep the law of God than could he and his angels in heaven.19MR 68.4

“Ye are not your own.” The Lord Jesus has a right to your wholehearted and faithful, persevering energies. “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20].19MR 68.5