The High Ideal by Albert Weeks

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 14, 1914

The High Ideal

By Albert Weeks

ALBERT WEEKS

THE Christian ideal cannot be placed too high. The Saviour says, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." Matt. 5:48. Why be perfect?—Because the perfect character is the only character that can associate with God. Of the city of God it is said, "There shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth." Rev. 21:27.

To excuse oneself in sin is to separate from God. To lower the standard of righteousness is to form a character that will exclude us from the society of our Lord and from heaven. "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." Matt. 5:8.

Paul realized something of the high calling of God when he said, "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Phil. 3:14. He had not attained to that exalted condition, but was earnestly working to that end. He says: "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

Dismissing the discouragements of our past experience, let us set the mark of attainment high, and press the battle against the enemy. Our Saviour is abundantly able to give us success. He was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin, and is thus able to help us overcome. It is only a question of submitting all to him in faith; then he will enable us to do the will of God in everything. Let us open the doors of our hearts and invite the blessed Saviour in.

Omer, Mich.