p. 106 | Above the Clouds

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 19, 1872

Above the Clouds.

It is said of a traveler in the Alpine regions, that when he was upon those lofty heights, he looked down and saw the angry storm raging below him; while above him the sun shone brightly in a cloudless sky. He was above the darkness and gloom that enveloped the people below. What a comparison to the Christian, who dwells in the sunshine of perfect love. The world is under his feet, and he has risen above it in his thoughts and desires, and the Sun of righteousness shines upon him with undimmed luster. There is no need of going through the world fearing and doubting, murmuring and complaining, fretting and worrying, as many do. A good Methodist brother once remarked at a camp-meeting, “The baptism of the Holy Ghost is the best cure for nervousness.” I have found it a perfect cure for everything contrary to the fruits of the Spirit.

And if we want to live in the sunshine of God's love, where it is our duty and privilege to be, we must make a full surrender of ourselves to God; an entire consecration of every thing; then we shall feel a sweet submission to his holy will, accept him as our Saviour and realize the all-cleansing power of Jesus' atoning blood to save from all sin. Then we can say—

“’Tis done! thou dost this moment save, With full salvation bless; Redemption in thy blood I have, And perfect love and peace.”

But some, after having received the blessing, have lost it, like a Christian who lost his roll. How can they get it again? Return again to their first love. Neglect no duty. Many make shipwreck of faith by neglecting one duty after another, until they lose their interest and go wandering on the dark mountains of unbelief; all because they do not watch and pray without ceasing.

Serve God from principle, and soon you will serve him from love. Walk by naked faith, and you shall soon feel Heaven in your soul. Walk in the light as he is in the light, and if faithful, you will be made like him, and see his blessed face. Live holy lives; possess that meek and quiet spirit that Jesus possesses, and be prepared to welcome him back to earth. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.—Selected.