p. 203 | Hold Fast by M. Wood

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 22, 1874

Hold Fast.

By M. Wood

“Behold, I come quickly; hold fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” Rev. 3:11. These words of our divine Lord evidently imply a necessity of constantly being on the alert lest the world, with its fascinating allurements and the power of Satan, draw us away from God and his truth, which is a test of loyalty and integrity. Paul, in his epistle to the Thessalonians, says, “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” There are thousands who can testify that it is good to obey God, and keep his commandments, of which the psalmist says, “More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is thy servant warned; and in keeping of them there is great reward.” Ps. 19:10, 11. As we do not receive our reward until the second advent of our divine Lord, Rev. 22:12, it behooves us to hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end. Heb. 3:14. Because we have once started in the good way, and embraced the truth for the love of it, sacrificed, borne burdens, and denied self, is no evidence that we shall obtain eternal life. Many individuals have set out in real earnest to serve God and keep all his commandments; but in an unguarded moment, they gave way to the pleadings of the tempter. Inch by inch they yielded the ground so nobly gained, and refused to walk in the light. It is not enough to make a good beginning; we must “hold fast” that which we have, and be able to say as did Paul, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Tim. 4:7.

M. WOOD.

Boston, Mass.