3:182 Peter 3:18

The verse commands continual, daily, lifelong growth in grace and in knowing Jesus as Lord and Saviour, with no stopping place and no going backward.RH May 6, 1862+4
This growth is upward and heavenward into Christ as the living Head until reaching the full stature of men and women in Him, sustained by entire surrender and abiding in Him as the branch in the vine.BS 81.1+4
To know Him is to gain constantly clearer understanding of His Word, to receive Christ by making His Word part of life, and to follow on to know Him in daily experience, character, and walk.SC 112.2+4
It is nourished by studying and practicing the Word, by emptying self and holding continual communion through prayer and beholding the Saviour, and by active unselfish service and soul-winning work.Lt 30, 1907, par. 11–12+4
It is blocked by neglecting opportunities, relying on human wisdom and self, clinging to worldliness, pride and selfishness, and rejecting further light.6T 424.4+4
It is the message for the close of earth's history, calling for holy conduct, diligence to be found without spot, and perfected character in preparation for Christ's near coming and the new heavens and new earth.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+4

The command to keep growing in grace and in knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour is a message for those living in the close of this earth's history in preparation for His near coming.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+1 It is given while looking for and hastening the coming day of God when the heavens are dissolved with fire and the elements melt, and while looking for promised new heavens and a new earth wherein dwells righteousness.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+1 This growth keeps believers from being led away with the error of the wicked and falling from steadfastness, and makes them diligent to live in holy conduct and godliness and to be found by Him in peace without spot and blameless.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+2 It belongs to a chapter full of warnings and counsel that followers of Christ need to heed, calling for living for Bible truth alone and refusing to diminish God and His glory by any pleasing sophistry of human wisdom.Ms 13, 1895, par. 10–11+1 The abominations and crimes seen in the state of the world are fulfillment of its prophecies concerning the wickedness that would prevail during the last days, which should lead to lives of humility and prayer, and as trouble was caused in the early church by such people and similar conditions are to be expected, there must be constant guard against deceptive ideas that could harm the church and the work.Lt 220, 1903, par. 46–48+1

The same growth is the preparation needed by churches that are neither cold nor hot, which must gain a fresh, new experience and leave lukewarmness to become acceptable before God.Lt 165, 1903, par. 18–19+1 Love of worldly things hinders that growth, while growth in grace brings greater devotion to God and a transformed mind.Ms 4, 1865, par. 15 Those always seeking for something new do not need mere novelty, but the true newness that comes from daily growth in the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.RH Jul 13, 1905+1 That daily growth gives a living experience in the knowledge of the truth and of the Lord and Saviour, which God stirs His church to obtain until they have it.Lt 11, 1875, par. 9–11

All who would be represented with the pleasure of Jesus Christ for having held the beginning of their confidence without wavering firm unto the end are called to keep growing in grace and in knowledge, to Him be glory both now and forever.Lt 222, 1906, par. 8–9 This is done by depending on the grace that comes from Christ, developing a noble and fully formed Christian character as a privilege and continuing work pursued in His name and strength.Ms 198, 1899, par. 37–39 It is living in completeness in Christ and continuing in faith, going from grace to grace in godliness until each person is presented perfect in Christ Jesus, with ministers sanctifying themselves and continuing to care for hearers through teaching and example so hearers also become sanctified.Ms 198, 1899, par. 37–39+1

This growth belongs to the present fitting-up time for heaven and to the final examination of probation in this world, when character will be reviewed and there will be no further opportunity to make up for neglected lessons or lost chances.2MR 43.2–3+2 It requires unfailing effort now without letting effort flag or weaken, expecting God to do great things, walking in full obedience to all the commandments of God before the work is closed up and the sealing of God's people is finished, when the outpouring of the Spirit will come with angels in the midst.2MR 43.2–3+2 It prepares each person and family to have a part in the closing work, with character perfected now through the merits of the heavenly Redeemer and victory gained in His name, and with the whole character changed by study of the Word so that the one in Christ is a new creature with old ambitions passed away, selfishness purged, and refinement and true godliness revealed in love, joy, peace, longsuffering, and gentleness.2MR 43.2–3+2 Christian life is a continual advance in holiness and Christlike character, growing in knowledge and love of God from greater light to still greater light until probation closes.Lt 21, 1886, par. 50 The urgency is because the days of probation are nearly ended with great responsibility for time and eternity, met by ever looking to Jesus, watching unto prayer, guarding against habits of sin, keeping watch over the tongue, and watching for opportunities to do good and bless others in living the higher life in this lower life, forming a well-built harmonious character and not a jumble of opposites sober and devout one day and careless and frivolous the next, by the plan of addition laying up grace upon grace in good works — faith, patience, temperance, benevolence, courage, self-denial — stone upon stone through Christ's provision, learning of Him and catching rays of divine light to shine upon the pathway of others in darkness.Lt 74, 1896, par. 56–58

Constantly rising daily growth in grace, strength, and knowledge of the truth is the only safety to keep ascendancy above the powers of darkness and not be overcome by them.ST Nov 30, 1882+2 Satan has come down in great power knowing his time is short, and the powers of darkness are constantly rising through human agents worked upon by his angels to get victory over God's people and triumph over them, so now above all is the time to be wide-awake.21MR 237.6+1 Without that rising increase in power and strength the powers of darkness will get the victory, for Christian life requires wholehearted surrender in which He claims thoughts and affections, defects of character overcome, and the mind kept rising toward the highest standard so it does not lose what it has gained and lapse into error and open sin.5T 537.2+3 This gives rising power to stand on enchanted ground, while the counterfeiting power as of the magicians opposing Moses has increased tenfold within a few months and will still increase and spread.19MR 129.2–3

Growth does not end in this life, for in the heavenly home the redeemed will bear the perfect likeness of their Creator and advance through the ages in wisdom, knowledge, and holiness.CT 55.2 This world is a school preparing for heaven where education begun here continues into old age and into the higher life, with growth in grace and in knowledge of the truth lifelong even when old and grey-haired.Lt 111a, 1904, par. 15–16 No knowledge of God and heaven gained in this world is left behind, but that mental and spiritual wealth is taken along at the call, Child, come up higher, in constant advancement in preparing for the future immortal life with the immortal life in view.Ms 82, 1903, par. 19+2 It comes by trusting in the wisdom of God instead of our own wisdom, bringing the patience, kindness, and love of Christ into the character, doing well the work lying nearest to be prepared for a wider field of usefulness, with the mind renewed by the Holy Spirit into conformity to Christ's will and likeness.Ms 82, 1903, par. 19+1 It is continued growth as members of His living body with Jesus Christ as living Head and Prince, through knowledge that strengthens the intellect, makes men and women better, and builds them up in Christ, rejecting unwanted knowledge that cannot be taken to the other side, by beholding Christ so as to be changed into His image until the whole being is conformed to the likeness of the perfect pattern, which is the science of salvation made part of life by abiding in Christ and doing whatsoever He commands.9MR 69.2+1

The verse commands continual, daily, lifelong, ever-increasing growth with a constant onward march and no stopping place, for sanctification is not the work of a moment, an hour, or a day.RH May 6, 1862+4 Believers must not remain stationary or go backward, for the moment growth becomes stationary what was gained is lost, and a person is either advancing or going backward.RH May 6, 1862+2 This growth means a high religious development in Christian experience, appearing in speech as increased spirituality and with advancing years bringing increased capability to carry forward the work of God.Lt 260, 1906, par. 10 It is progressive, with faith increasing as it overcomes doubts and obstacles, coming through using every opportunity to know Christ's life and character and through being nourished by the Holy Spirit, seen in love for worship and willingness to testify, and it belongs in every part of life even the ordinary duties of each day.MYP 121.2–3+1 God's purpose is for people to keep moving upward in character, with holy motives made powerful by Christ's life and sacrifice, joined to reliance on God's strength and hope in the gospel, and there is no time to lose.Lt 84, 1895, par. 1–2+1

Growth is upward and heavenward into Christ as the living Head, not earthly growth, continuing without growing too much, for believers can continue growing and receiving the light given along their path and cannot grow too much or gather too much of that light.Ms 7, 1890, par. 5 Believers can reach the full stature of men and women in Christ, which is every soul's privilege with no idlers, gained by deliberate resolve, keeping step with Jesus, and making the most of every opportunity and ability.CH 430.3+2 An earnest resolve to grow brings overcoming power whatever a person's temperament, and angels work where workers make this resolve, while the Holy Spirit blesses their own lives as they seek to live in a way that uplifts others.STB 635.1 This growing up into Christ as the living Head comes by understanding the Master better and following on to know the Lord whose goings forth are prepared as the morning, driven by wanting heaven even at loss of all else, by seeing the King in His beauty and matchless charms, and by seeing the treasures of His Word that lift the soul in faith and confidence and hope and courage.Ms 9, 1891, par. 43 It comes by accepting the righteousness of Christ as a free gift, not bought, by being saved by grace with no thread of legality to boast of, by the love of Christ melting and subduing the soul, by offering the heart as a willing offering, by keeping the heart in the love of God which keeps the world out, by being built up in most holy faith with Christ as Author and Finisher, and by close connection with Christ as the way to grow in grace and knowledge of the truth.Lt 10, 1893, par. 16+2

True growth is not brief feeling-driven impulses nor measured by feelings, but drawing life from Christ as living water that quickens the whole being with the life of the Son of God.MYP 121.2–3+2 Mere outward profession, appearing to keep commandments, occasional formal prayers, and unchanged profession show no real growth, for a Christian profession without genuine godliness and without settled faith and endurance leaves one without faith and endurance.1T 161.2–162.1+1 Genuine growth is living like a tree producing new shoots, appearing as an abiding Christlike life that bears fruit, where true personal religion conforms to Christ's life and produces sound spiritual growth, overcoming, and fruitful service as people work together with God.1MR 370.4–371.3+1 It requires diligent self-examination, humble confession, prayer, and seeking assurance of acceptance with God, with the joys of salvation and communion with God essential to it.LSEGW 60.3

Growth is steady and constant by the Holy Spirit, not spasmodic reform, bringing a constant increase of spiritual life and power.TSSW 94.2 It requires order and discipline in service, thoughtfulness and quiet contemplation of the truths of revelation, and watching unto prayer, rather than impulse, excitement, confusion, tumult, or strange performances which dishonor holy doctrine and create prejudice.Ms 39, 1907, par. 16–18 It produces habits of devout trust, holy effort, and unhesitating obedience, with contemplation of the plan of salvation and the Redeemer's character making spiritual vision clearer, while experiencing the Savior's love deepens delight in the gospel.Ms 9, 1879, par. 12 It means continually reaching forward in the onward work for humanity as laborers together with God, putting on the whole armor of righteousness and revealing Christ in thought, word, and deed by having self crucified so Christ lives within as hope of glory, wrought inside by mighty power received when in weakness a person lays hold upon the Lord.Ms 54, 1905, par. 33 It means continual increase in efficiency, purity, and knowledge of God through wholly consecrating oneself to service, making a person all light with clear steady rays undimmed by Satan's shadow, depending on keeping meek and lowly of heart, and it is urgent because time is short.Lt 171, 1897, par. 23

Even Jesus as a man was perfect yet grew in grace in spiritual grace from the first dawning of intelligence through diligent study of Scripture and of God's works in nature.RH May 6, 1862+2 This shows the most perfect Christian can still increase continually in knowledge and love of God, with character fashioned after the divine model and becoming continually more noble.RH May 6, 1862+1 No point is reached in this life where full attainment can be claimed, because Satan lives and is active and as long as he reigns there is self to subdue and besetments to overcome, requiring daily earnest crying to God for help and strength to resist him.RH May 6, 1862+1

Growth is like a seed where people sow and tend but God gives life and increase through His Spirit, unfolding in the natural order of first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn, with God supplying the life and power human effort cannot produce until it bears fruit.8T 326.4–5+2 It advances step by step by ever receiving and imparting, adding grace to grace, beginning as a babe then a child according to opportunity, with daily privilege to gain knowledge from God and His Word so God multiplies grace, peace, and mercy.Ms 143, 1907, par. 1–5+1 As the seed develops and bears fruit under God's care, people learn spiritual growth depends on Him and leads the heart into close fellowship with God, and children learn from this that growing depends on God's care and power.8T 326.4–5+1 Progression not stagnation is the law of heaven for every faculty, with the Christian constantly making advancement proportionate to opportunities, remembering he is bought with a price and must make best use of talents, doing his best even in infancy of understanding toward the higher holier life with Christ cooperating as laborer together with God, never self-inflated but counting all loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ.Ms 46, 1903, par. 10–11

Growth is urgent with no time to lose, requiring unfailing effort now and some growth every day with better progress than the day before by keeping Christ before us as our efficiency, because He gave His life that lives might glorify Him.Lt 84, 1895, par. 1–2+2 God's claims are first above all others and He has given every person abilities to improve to reflect glory to Him, so all must make some progress every day in knowledge and spiritual strength and must not remain without decided improvement, for to remain so is loss.CH 430.3 Everyone is responsible to God for use of abilities in daily growth, which does not end when one is theoretically established in present truth, for even then mistakes are made and must be readily corrected, avoiding everything likely to create dissension because heaven with no strife is before us.CH 246.2 Stopping growth loses vital connection with God, turns blessings into a curse to self and others, and neglecting to grow diminishes influence and ability to help others, while all who do not grow stronger are continually going backward.CH 430.3+1 This growth belongs to the present fitting-up time for heaven when each must walk in full obedience to all commandments before the work is closed and the sealing finished, coming through study of the Word changing the whole character into a new creature with old ambitions passed away, purging selfishness and revealing love, joy, peace, longsuffering, and gentleness.2MR 43.2–3

The Christian life is continuing progression sustained by entire surrender of soul, body and spirit to do and suffer God's will as well as to enjoy His love and blessings, abiding in Christ as a branch in the vine at every step.Lt 94, 1893, par. 7+2 Christ is the beginning, continuation and completion of faith, the source of growth, joy and usefulness, depending entirely on union with Christ not on human effort apart from Him, with daily and hourly communion as its source.SC 69.1+1 This growth is built by teaching simple lessons of faith, forming habits of trust, committing the soul to His care, feeling constant need of Christ's love and grace, and having Christ dwelling in the heart as an unchanging Friend, fitting even a parent to educate children to love and do the will of Him who died to save every believer.Lt 94, 1893, par. 7 It happens as a branch in the living Vine by daily drawing nourishment from Christ resulting in bearing fruit, and like a branch drawing daily nourishment it remains firm, flourishes, bears fruit to God's glory, and appears in Christlike character, while neglecting that nourishment leaves growth stunted and fruit incomplete.Ms 29, 1896, par. 19+1 Merely knowing truth and claiming union without fruit and constant faith does not produce growth, for growth requires surrendering all to Christ with the heart's highest thoughts and deepest affection, and this surrender is the only safety.BS 81.1+1

Growing in grace brings a constantly clearer understanding of God's Word, discerning new light and beauty in its sacred truths.SC 112.2+3 This progressive connection between spiritual growth and increasing truth has marked the church in all ages and will continue to the end.SC 112.2+3 When spiritual life declines, growth in knowledge of the truth stops, leaving people satisfied with the light already received, conservative, discouraging further investigation of the Scriptures and avoiding discussion.ST Nov 15, 1905+2 Daily growth in grace and in spiritual understanding through increasing knowledge of God and His will gives spirituality to the understanding, strengthens believers with might and increases spiritual effectiveness so they can strengthen God's people.15MR 255.1+2

Such growth gives the mind a worthy and ample occupation that keeps evil from growing there, by preoccupying it with Bible truth searched and obeyed with care and watchfulness.MYP 282.1–2+2 Scripture supplies what the mind needs: the rules of holy living, the sins to shun, the plan of salvation, the way to heaven, and instruction about dangers on the path and how to escape them.CTBH 125.2+2 Those who do this will not be ignorant but will understand and be able to give the reasons for their hope and faith, which are not difficult to grasp, especially amid the perils of the last days when every member should understand his own hope and faith.CTBH 125.2+2 Superficial and exciting story reading weakens the mind and appetite for solid reading and prophecy and hinders becoming better grounded in the reasons for faith.CE 209.3–210.2+1

Growth in grace and in knowledge of the Lord Jesus leads to recognition of personal imperfections and ignorance and to exercising and stretching the powers of the mind to become intelligent Christians making the best use of God-given abilities.CT 37.3+3 Truly Christian students feel more deeply their need for thorough knowledge, and a pervading religious influence never cheapens literary attainments but increases them.FE 117.2–118.1+1 Demanding study for a life's work need not prevent this spiritual growth or lessen enjoyment of spiritual things, for genuine religion strengthens the intellect and grace strengthens rather than deadens the mind to lead others to truth.5T 573.2+1 Those called to teach and preach should keep advancing in continual learning and self-improvement so they can set an example and do good to others.5T 573.2

Growth in faith and in knowing Jesus as Lord and Saviour comes as clear light shines from the Word about justification by faith and Christ our righteousness as present truth bringing light and relief and blessing wherever it goes.1MR 143.2–144.1+1 It is fed by preaching on justification by faith that hungry hearers receive as a feast, taking in large morsels from the Lord's table in a feast of fat things.1MR 143.2–144.1+1 It continues by looking to Jesus as Author and Finisher of faith, turning from every other model to behold Him in glory and excellency until other objects sink into insignificance and His character becomes the character of the beholder, accepting every ray of light and going forward to greater light because the end is near, with faith greatly increased as believers talk faith and work in faith.1MR 143.2–144.1+1

Growth comes by receiving Christ as revealed in the Word, eating His flesh and drinking His blood by making His Word part of self.Ms 56, 1900, par. 28+1 The Lord has set His Word before believers as a rich banquet, His own spirit and life, and feasting on it and partaking of it increases spiritual strength.CT 206.3–207.1+1 This forms and strengthens self-control and habits of self-control, removes childish infirmities such as fretfulness, wilfulness, selfishness, hasty words and passionate acts, and develops the graces of mature Christian manhood and womanhood.CT 206.3–207.1+1 It requires diligent personal study of the Scriptures as the oracles of God teaching what to do to be saved, and doing the Word rather than taking interpretation from others' lips without searching the evidences to know what is truth, with receiving revealed truths and performing its duties enabling witness to unity with Christ, purifying heart and mind, establishing firmly in truth to withstand tests and false doctrines, and growing into Christ the living Head.Ms 56, 1900, par. 28+2 Failure in this personal study and obedience explains making little advancement toward the full stature of men and women in Christ and weakens labors for others.Lt 20, 1888, par. 8

Increasing knowledge is reflected in increased discernment and understanding of eternal truths and ability to grasp and teach the great truths of the gospel.CT 450.3+1 This growth shapes motives and influence to help others understand their responsibilities, with joy in sharing blessings received, and obtaining grace and knowledge in Jesus Christ gives clearer conceptions of the sacred character of educational work, makes truth a living reality, arouses flagging zeal and gives a working faith that converts the soul so those converted strengthen their brethren.CT 450.3+1 The knowledge commanded must be practical knowledge of the Scriptures, gained daily with daily disciplining of the soul, and the Lord is pleased when those connected with Him are filled with knowledge of His will.15MR 255.1+1 It comes by watching unto prayer and pleading earnestly for grace, walking humbly with the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom, whereupon He stands at the right hand to open ways of advance, and spiritual enlightenment enables the mind to behold the Lord's glory revealed in Jesus Christ full of grace and truth.Ms 98, 1902, par. 25–27+1

Growing in knowledge of the Lord and Saviour means having a living daily experience in the will and ways of God by following on to know Him whose goings forth are prepared as the morning.Ms 131, 1909, par. 4–5 It is learned from Jesus who walked the earth in sorrow and humbleness of mind yet with gladness of spirit as a living example, and those who have this knowledge express it in character, words and walk so others take knowledge that they have been with Jesus.Ms 131, 1909, par. 4–5 As obedient children keeping His law they receive strength of body and muscle and clearness of brain to distinguish right from wrong and truth from error, preparing them to work unworked places, while dwelling on themes of eternal importance strengthens the mind, develops character and forms firm steady principle.GW92 419.2–420.2+1 Learning Christ's meekness and lowliness brings spiritual knowledge and wisdom through faith and dependence on His saving grace, with grace to be received daily not kept selfishly but shared to bless others and help them grow in spiritual understanding.Lt 191, 1901, par. 10 It comes by studying the Redeemer's wonderful sacrifice, for the sacrifice of Christ as atonement for sin is the great truth around which all other truths cluster, and every truth from Genesis to Revelation must be studied in the light streaming from the cross and in connection with the atonement to be rightly understood and appreciated.20MR 336.4–6

Growth comes through studying the Word and putting it into practice, for the Word is given as the lesson book for constant advance in holiness.Lt 30, 1907, par. 11–12+2 Studied in this way it becomes strength, fortress, high tower, consolation, instruction, guide and sanctification.Lt 30, 1907, par. 11–12+1 Through such study the whole character is changed into a new creature with old ambitions passed away, selfishness purged, and refinement and true godliness appearing as love, joy, peace, longsuffering and gentleness in the life.Lt 30, 1907, par. 11–12+2 This knowledge must be practiced and made part of daily life, for failing to do what is learned means losing eternal life.Ms 67, 1890, par. 3+1 Such growth is cultivated by deep understanding of the Scriptures and appropriating their truths as spiritual life to the soul, by searching them to receive truth personally and to learn what is believed and why, and by daily conversion to simple obedience in dependence on the Lord rather than on human agencies in seeking to save perishing souls.Ms 67, 1890, par. 8+1

Spiritual life is composed of what it feeds upon, so growth comes by feeding on Christ through thinking of Him and obeying His words.ST Dec 25, 1893+1 By this feeding believers are built up in Him in grace and in knowledge of the truth unto the full stature of men and women in Christ.ST Dec 25, 1893+1 Followers receive strength by feeding on His words and then imparting the truth to others, for giving what has been received is necessary to continued growth just as exercise helps the body use its food.Ms 153, 1901, par. 8–9+1 Growing in this way means feeding on the Word and practicing every word from the mouth of God, bringing the will into subjection to Christ, living for Him, studying how to glorify Him in association with others, and being trained as missionaries until character is perfected.Lt 101, 1893, par. 8–9

Growth is possible by emptying the heart of self and offering it to be shaped after Christ, staying connected to the source of light as the Light of the world and Sun of Righteousness.ST Jan 16, 1893+2 From that connection comes continual receiving of grace for grace and increased spiritual apprehension of eternal truths for this time, with every ray improved increasing capacity to gather light and shed it forth again.ST Jan 16, 1893+1 Without this continual receiving the purpose of God is not fulfilled.Ms 52, 1896, par. 68–70 By enduring with sight fixed on the invisible God, beholding the Saviour, learning from Christ, and growing into knowledge of divine perfection through reverence, confidence in communion, steadfast looking to Jesus, faith, distrust of self and watching unto prayer, believers become like Him in meekness and lowliness rather than pride.ST Jan 16, 1893+2 Habitual daily and hourly communion is essential to maintain a steady course, and this advance in knowledge and love of God through humble trusting faith, with prayer for opened understanding to appreciate the Word, gives steady, healthful, symmetrical growth that expands character unawares like a cedar, makes counsel profitable, gives association the fragrance of heaven, and reflects Christ's meekness and love.Lt 5b, 1891, par. 28–29+2

As long as Satan lives and reigns there is self to subdue and besetments to overcome, so growth requires daily earnest crying to God for help and strength whose conflict for the next day is unknown.RH May 6, 1862+1 It is an everyday work of holding victory over darkness by constant persevering watchfulness and almost unceasing prayer, with faith in the promises growing daily.Lt 36, 1901, par. 5+1 It comes through watching and praying, studying the Word, trusting God rather than self, walking humbly with Him, moving cautiously with a teachable spirit, leaning on One mighty to save who delights to impart strength and courage to the humble suppliant, keeping eyes where light was last seen, bearing full weight on promises, and faithfulness in one's position bringing knowledge and blessing with a clear record in heaven.RH Jan 10, 1856+2 So nourished by holy living and oft communion, drawing nourishment from the living vine, the soul flourishes like a watered garden with select grace-seasoned speech, fitted to exalt the standard of the last message of mercy with holy influence while angels watch over.RH Jan 10, 1856+1

Growth is fostered by setting aside regular time for prayer, self-examination, Scripture study, meditation on God's goodness and love in Christ, attending meetings, and communion with God rather than being left to haphazard circumstances.RH Nov 10, 1910+2 These practices bring spiritual strength, as God directs thoughts, inspires noble aims, shapes character to the divine, and fills the heart with holy purposes and longing for purity.RH Nov 10, 1910+1 Those responsible for workers, especially the young in institutions such as restaurants, must lay wise plans and provide every advantage including guardians who love the Saviour and souls, regular devotions, time for Bible study, and wise oversight for young women, for without it helpers become heedless, careless and indifferent to eternal realities.CH 516.3–517.2+1 Spiritual care and nourishment by prayer and means of grace must not be neglected for business, but those with responsibilities should make time to seek the wisdom God gives rather than relying on their own efforts, until full maturity in Him is reached.Ms 62, 1890, par. 7+1

Growth comes through active unselfish service, for seeking to encourage and help those needing encouragement increases efficiency and fulfills the purpose of increasing in knowledge and returning gifts to God in earnest service.CT 452.1+2 It comes by imparting light to those without truth and not merely hearing and receiving for self, since contentedly keeping truth to self neglects opportunity, abuses privilege and stops growth.Ms 151, 1897, par. 41+1 Without that growth believers remain weak in faith, lacking knowledge, immature, unestablished and without sight to distinguish truth from error, so that last-day delusions deceive them.Ms 151, 1897, par. 41+1 Following Christ's example in unselfish effort for others, especially the erring, strengthens character and brings clearer perception, steadier faith, power in prayer, peace and happiness, making believers strong, dependable, prayerful, pure workers who win souls, care for the church and keep its members faithful as light increases and every power is used to glorify God.5T 606.3+2

Growth comes through continuous persevering soul-saving work after Christ's example of unselfish service, preaching, healing and teaching the truths He gave and the truth for this time to help others see its importance.RH Oct 6, 1910+2 Where that missionary effort is lacking growth stops, leaving dissatisfaction with self, an unpleasant complaining frame, and criticism and fault-finding under Satan's advantage.RH Oct 6, 1910+2 Taking up neglected work in needy settlements close by, exercising inventive faculties to devise plans for perishing souls, laboring in simplicity to teach what must be done to be saved, and answering calls both foreign and near by opening the Scriptures simply and showing what God has marked out for the obedient brings the Lord's presence with angels going before, develops faculties, increases capability, prepares workers to pass from city to city, and gives a burden for souls that cannot be restrained.Ms 47, 1907, par. 7–8+2 This growth accompanies service as a worker together with God by imparting received light and truth.Ms 120, 1909, par. 34+1

Growth comes through continuing struggle in which sacrifices in obedience bring victory over objectionable traits, reflecting Christ's likeness and preparing for a place in the kingdom.6T 262.3+1 It requires testing by trials that reveal lack of wisdom and experience, yet when the Lord is sought humbly with trust every trial works for good.GW 142.1–2+1 Then apparent failure becomes true advancement in better self-knowledge, firmer trust, learning not to repeat mistakes, greater strength to resist evil, and benefit to others by example.GW 142.1–2+1 Remaining true and loyal, believing truth, learning Christ's meekness and humility, doing God's will, taking heed how one hears with acceptable faith, and going from grace to grace and strength to strength through constant trust, prayer and faith amid purifying trials by bringing every thought into captivity to Christ and dismissing temptation gains victory after victory until the overcomer receives the crown.5T 485.2+2 Remaining faithful amid opposition strengthens in this way, while seeking an easier place where all agree weakens faith and hinders growth and service.5T 183.1

Growth depends on complete reliance on God and the teachings and leadings of the Holy Spirit rather than personal smartness, natural or acquired capabilities, human wisdom or human leaders.GW 484.2–3+2 Those who accept truth belong to Christ, not to any human leader, and must look to God as source of wisdom and sufficiency.GW 484.2–3+1 Binding converts to self by commanding, dictating and controlling, seeking human approval more anxiously than God's, looking to men for help and counsel more than to God, making men burden-bearers, and accepting human wisdom just when dependence on God is needed disconnect from the source, leave experience weak and inefficient, and stop growth.GW 484.2–3+2 Daily dependence gives grace proportioned to each day's present need, not supplied in advance for imagined futures nor to be wasted, yet sufficient for any persecution or emergency when it comes, with vigor and fruitfulness in proportion to honoring the Father as a personal God in whose image man was made and to training the mind in contemplation and earnest prayer for guidance in righteousness.20MR 323.5+1

Growth requires purifying the soul by obeying truth, and obedience to God includes obedience to physical law.Lt 19, 1892, par. 14+1 Such growth supplies the oil of grace that keeps the Christian light burning in clear steady rays set high above sensuality in thought or action to illuminate surrounding darkness.Lt 19, 1892, par. 14+1 Unjust business transactions and indulgence of passion and perverted appetite dim that light until lights burn low and go out.Lt 19, 1892, par. 14+1 It requires educating and disciplining the mind to love purity and spiritual things, hungering and thirsting after righteousness to be filled from Christ's ample provision, pressing to know the length and breadth and height and depth of perfect love, with the will persistently exercised in the right direction rather than mere desire, good purposes and hope.2T 265.2+2 Sanctification of body, soul and spirit through truth belongs to this, for health-destroying indulgences hinder clear perception of godliness while breaking from them brings clearer understanding and changed experience.Ms 86, 1901, par. 26

Growth must begin in the home through cultivating home religion, for many fail to grow because they fail there.Lt 272, 1903, par. 2+1 Those who are Christians in the home will be Christians in church and world, since families are to be symbols of the family above, while those who fail at home are not ready for the heavenly family.Lt 272, 1903, par. 2+1 Criticism and fault-finding in family life are contrary to it.ST Feb 17, 1904+1 When parents learn the Word alongside children they too grow more rapidly in grace and knowledge, with increasing faith, spiritual activity, assurance, confidence and more earnest sincere prayer as Christ gives needed grace for wisdom.CT 159.1+1 It is a continual home experience of living in constant possession of power from Christ and improving every habit into conformity to His life, with faith working by love to purify the soul until thoughts and feelings bend heavenward, gained by faithful obedience in small temporal duties that builds reliability, adaptability and fitness for higher service.Ms 140, 1897, par. 9+2 Taking up nearest work and being faithful in home-life duties and the humble round of daily toil builds strength of purpose, nobleness, integrity, fidelity, love and fear of God with quiet gentle meekness ready to serve and lead through cooperation with God.PK 218.1

Growth requires beneficence as essential to character, for simple belief without good works is insufficient.1T 665.2+1 It means consecrating means as held in trust rather than owned, sanctifying labor, doing good, and using means and influence for fellow creatures in following Christ who went about doing good.ST Aug 22, 1878+1 Giving to the cause is a way people grow in grace and knowledge of the truth.STMW6 56.5–6+1 Those blessed with abundance must use it to advance truth in order to grow, prosper in the Christian life and reap a rich reward.1T 665.2+1

The Holy Spirit must enlighten the mind to see God's wisdom, truth, holiness and mercy, and as believers faithfully add Christian qualities their knowledge of Christ becomes fruitful with angels near to support.Ms 177, 1897, par. 85–86+2 Growth comes by keeping the eye fixed on the Author and Finisher of faith, with faith growing exceedingly and mutual love abounding.Lt 186, 1907, par. 18+1 It is gained by cherishing belief in Christ's love, mercy and compassionate works, becoming partakers of the divine nature, following on to know the Lord, worshiping in spirit and truth and beauty of holiness, following His footsteps in self-denial and sacrifice, holding to His Word, and growing in faith, love and meekness to full stature together with all overcoming by the Lamb's blood and testimony.Lt 186, 1907, par. 18+1 Those who receive and live by the light of the Word grow through the Spirit's molding influence with improved character and revealed defects to overcome, as continuous daily sanctification by truth accompanied by unity and increasing love and confidence.Ms 37, 1890, par. 7–8+2

Growth comes by wearing Christ's yoke and working in His lines together with God, becoming partakers of the divine nature with highest moral efficiency, clearest comprehension, strength of spiritual sinew, steadiness of faith and power to prevail in earnest prayer.Ms 83, 1893, par. 9–11+1 It requires self-denial and cross-bearing often inconvenient, painful and mortifying, accepted in submission until good fruit appears with fellowship in Christ's sufferings for souls and finally in His glory.Ms 83, 1893, par. 9–11+1 It comes through active earnest diligent work in all walks of life, exercising every spiritual nerve and muscle to become strong, for Christ said Follow Me while engaged in active work and His followers to the end grow the same way.Lt 5a, 1891, par. 8–9+1 It does not come by forsaking duties, becoming useless to society, or withdrawing to deserts, dens and caves under pretext of devotion, for nothing in Christ's life supports that course and indolence and inactivity bear no fruit.Lt 5a, 1891, par. 8–9+1 Continually reaching forward in the onward work for humanity with self crucified so Christ lives within as hope of glory is righteousness wrought inside by mighty power received when in weakness one lays hold on the Lord, increased by doing present work with best effort just where one is, wisely communicating given light and laboring personally for neighbors rather than letting talents rust in idleness.Ms 54, 1905, par. 33+1

Growth comes by showing faith by works with no excuse for sloth, watching unto prayer, seeking new experience, receiving truth actively, improving abilities and stirring up the gift within to increase capability as laborers together with God in fishing for souls as those bought with a price.Lt 297, 1905, par. 5–7+1 It comes by bringing professed truth into the inner sanctuary until it enriches the soul with deep experience, for years freighted with heavenly blessings are given for this and to cease is to remain dwarfed and crippled while professing truth.Lt 23a, 1893, par. 30–31+1 It means looking at Christ's perfection to see defects, learning of Jesus and doing the Word, being changed by beholding into His image and completeness unto the crown, which heavenly intelligences watch for when character is tested.Lt 34, 1891, par. 29–30+1 It requires making the most of time and present opportunities with prompt willing obedience to the Spirit's call and word even when it involves a cross, obeying duty and conscience without parley when other voices urge otherwise, resisting the devil and the enemy, striving for mastery, distinguishing God's voice in warnings, counsels and reproof, and living as before the Lord of hosts whose eye sees every thought, since neglect today may leave one unable to be convinced tomorrow with great loss revealed when books are opened.5T 69.1+3

Growth belongs to those connected with God's cause who bear responsibilities in fear and love of God, look constantly to Jesus, work with eye single to His glory, and inquire at every step whether this is the Lord's way, so devotion steadily increases.Ms 24, 1891, par. 82+1 Those connected with Christ advance to full stature as the privilege of every soul with no idlers, by making the most of every opportunity and ability, wholly consecrating self whether farmer, mechanic, teacher or pastor to become strong and efficient, and by placing themselves under Christ as Teacher to learn to work as He worked in connection with the source of power, light and strength.Ms 151, 1897, par. 5–6+1 Earnest resolve to grow with the Spirit's work brings overcoming power whatever the temperament, angels work where it is earnestly sought, and the Spirit blesses lives that uplift others and make spiritual impression in institutions.Lt 22, 1911, par. 33–34+1

Growth stops when opportunities are neglected and privileges abused, and when truth received is contentedly kept for self instead of imparted to those without it.6T 424.4+1 Without that imparting growth, believers remain weak in faith, lacking knowledge, immature in experience, and not rooted and grounded so as to distinguish truth from error, leaving them exposed to the deceptions of the last days.6T 424.4+1 Failure to grow leaves increasing darkness, blunted sensibilities and clouded intellect that must be changed by overcoming selfishness so the life glorifies God.2T 71.1 God judges each case by opportunity to obtain knowledge of spiritual things, and those with opportunity to hear and understand who refuse to listen stand condemned as if having heard they refused to obey and practice.Ms 41, 1903, par. 9 Without growing the person stays spiritually unexpanded, weak in moral power and feeble in experience, and in trial faces danger of great loss on an unstable foundation not resting on Christ.ASCOP 20.1+1

Growth is hindered by reliance on human wisdom and by seeking human approval and counsel instead of dependence on God, and it advances not by self-assertion, self-confidence and self-sufficiency but by dependence on Christ guarding against loss of first love and defects that spoil service.RH Dec 15, 1904+1 Depending on a human leader instead of God leads away from the source of wisdom and strength, and setting affections on Christ the Redeemer means looking to God more than to any human teacher rather than idolizing ministers, attaching undue importance to the man, and seeking him more than God.9T 146.2+1 Applause and praise are no evidence of speaking under the Spirit, and petting and exalting does great harm especially to a young developing laborer, while glory and the heart's affections belong to God the Giver and the minister is esteemed only for his work's sake lest the man eclipse the Son of God who must be seen.GW92 44.2–3 Lack of spirituality and neglect of duty are cured by education more than by severe blame and censure, with teaching by precept and example advancing churches in grace and knowledge of truth toward maturity.GW92 79.3+1

Growth is stopped by worldly customs and practices and by a divided half-and-half life, with openness earthward to habits, pride of appearance, extravagant use of money, unsanctified ambition and sinful lust of selfishness hiding Jesus and keeping the soul from opening heavenward to the Sun of Righteousness.Lt 68, 1899, par. 13–14 Such self-glorification, selfishness and self-love will not prosper and does not serve, worship or glorify the Lord, and love of worldly things hinders devotion to God and a transformed mind, requiring the church to leave lukewarmness to become acceptable.Lt 68, 1899, par. 13–14+1 Growth commands inward adorning and becoming more heavenly-minded rather than more earthly-minded, and it is neglected when precious time is given to study of dress and pride and vanity grow with prosperity.4T 646.3 Foolish and hurtful lusts, groveling appetites, show, fashion and pleasure are soul-destroying indulgences that stop growth and becloud sacred things, and all professing to love Jesus must flee them to be true to a high profession.4T 646.3

Growth as spirituality and walking according to God's will is greatly hindered by pride and love of the world as snares, and by too much talking with too little meditation and prayer and by selfishness devoting the mind to self instead of others' good, leaving Satan's power upon believers with a great work still to be done.2T 187.1 Pride and self-sufficiency stand in the way, and forgiveness becomes possible through recognizing sin, repenting, confessing and seeking to make restitution, while one who believes there is no fault to confess will not seek cleansing or improvement.ST Apr 9, 1902 Growth is impossible for those who excuse defects as not very grievous and fail to watch and pray unceasingly and strive against every imperfection, and it requires earnest prayer for determination to overcome, enlightened understanding of hope and power, determined effort against wrong habits instead of retaining and cherishing them and murmuring against reproof, and true conversion putting off the corrupt old man, renewed mind, righteousness and true holiness, and putting away bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, evil-speaking and malice in kindness and forgiveness.RH Jun 11, 1901 Unguarded defects bring ruin and are reproduced in associates.RH Jun 11, 1901

Work that lowers and debases, strengthens animal propensities and overpowers the higher powers of mind hinders growth in grace and knowledge of truth and spiritual life, so those preparing for translation should not become butchers.2T 60.3 Health of body is essential to that growth and to an even temper and upright moral character, because brain and nerves are linked in sympathy with the stomach, so erroneous eating and drinking produce erroneous thinking and acting and hinder moral character.5MR 360.3–4+2 Careless habits of eating and drinking must give place to care of the body, and obedience to physical laws whose sacredness stands as that of the Decalogue is entailed, since a feeble body and mind hinder spiritual enjoyment and without spiritual life there is no Christian growth.HTL5 78.14–79.1+1 One who loves and regularly uses wine or cider does not grow in grace, but becomes gross and sensual with animal passions controlling the higher powers and with cherishing of virtue weakened.5T 356.2

Rejecting further light from Jesus prevents growing in grace, though He offers the light of life to those in darkness to praise God for calling into marvelous light.ST Nov 6, 1893 Choosing doubt and unbelief as preferred outlook, persistently turning offered light into darkness, dwelling on suspicions and strengthening unbelief, leaves one ungrown, unpurified and unsanctified through truth and unfit to bear truth to others.Lt 16, 1880, par. 4–6+1 Steady deliberate advance toward God by turning to the Sun of Righteousness perfects character and deepens lasting experience so as to reflect divine light, which doubt, unbelief and skepticism forfeit.4T 444.3 Strong political feelings with offense when challenged likewise hinder growth in grace and knowledge and must be purged by conversion to God.Lt 36, 1880, par. 4–6

Lightness, jesting, joking, much talk, laughing and profitless nonsense hinder growth in grace and knowledge and must be overcome to become settled with vital sense of truth's importance.Lt 7, 1859, par. 5 Cheap commonplace talk, light speech, giddy laughter and profitless nonsense among the young, with living to please self, indulging habits, seeking pleasure, spending for self-gratification, pride in dress and seeking society of the other sex, show not living for Christ nor bringing will into subjection to Him, and many on the church record so living are not growing and are not written in the Lamb's book of life.Lt 13, 1893, par. 50–52 Growth instead requires feeding upon the Word and living by every word from God's mouth and comparing character with the law as the great moral standard to stand the judgment.Lt 13, 1893, par. 50–52 The tongue and voice must be sanctified to glorify God and give thanks with no faultfinding, murmuring or complaining, bringing comfort, peace, hope and consolation, and before those not acknowledging God requiring sober speech and action with no trifling, laughing or giggling as those with a soul to save or lose, so the God of consolation comes into the heart, purifies the mind and gives a clear-cut testimony.Ms 160, 1904, par. 43–46 Where the Spirit is not in control another spirit controls and growth stops into dwarfed spiritual life, and in a loose haphazard earthly common cheap atmosphere of laughing, jesting and joking with little solemnity and little sense of sacredness, spirituality decreases, much talk replaces the mind of Christ, gifts are misused in the enemy's service, and blindness opposes God's most sacred things.16MR 218.2–219.1

Relationships should help growth, but a bond reinforcing wrongdoing, hiding faults or helping neither person does not promote it, and believers should help one another grow in faith rather than strengthen one another in error.LJAHS 31.1–32.1+1 Close attachments and thoughts and affections that do not elevate character hinder spiritual growth, and an influence weakening desire for it is harmful.Lt 72, 1894, par. 10+1 Choices and companions help or hinder growth and the knowledge needed to serve Christ, and a journey with unsuitable companions would not foster that growth or essential knowledge for work among one's own people.Lt 66, 1895, par. 2–3 Surroundings help or hinder forming a character for heaven, and God opens the way and directs steps to places where growth is more favorable and less difficult, where light and correct knowledge of present truth obtainable in a few short months would take years elsewhere.2T 421.2–3 Jesus as compassionate High Priest knows weakness and errors and does not leave the inexperienced to battle the foe amid unfavorable surroundings where opposition would stir combativeness, dishonor truth by hasty spirit, and lead to discouragement and giving up truth, which mercy calls for gratitude.2T 421.2–3

Absorption in worldly plans and activities leaves no time for devotional love to be kindled, which growth in grace and knowledge of Jesus requires.Ms 42, 1890, par. 66–68 Rightly exercising and directing God-given mind and abilities strengthens that growth, increases usefulness and enables greater soul-winning, while letting boats and water absorb attention takes God's place.Lt 5, 1877, par. 29–30 Spiritual power must increase not diminish, so those united with the church must deliberately place themselves where growth is possible and judge work by cause and effect, refusing to stay in a position or business that consumes without producing favorable soul-saving results and taking up work where capabilities are actively used for Christ.Ms 84, 1903, par. 10–11

Long neglect to acknowledge heaven-sent light leaves people far behind without growth and without grace they might have had, while coming to the light, receiving rich treasures of truth, keeping step with Jesus as Leader, and making full confession of mistaken zeal, blindness, jealousies, evil surmisings and defiance of truth brings continuing growth and makes strong men in religious experience.14MR 109.1+1 Those considering themselves sinless are content with attainments and feel no need to grow, but those aware of sinfulness seek Jesus for wisdom, light, strength and mercy.LS 212.1 Young people without settled principle of serving God and without endurance of hardship lack that growth, which requires changed hearts seeing beauty of holiness and coming to love God and His law.MYP 102.1–2

Followers grow by avoiding worldly amusements offering no influence to make heavenly-minded, and by obeying God's word in separation from them.STB 841.2+2 Gatherings for worldly pleasure such as picnics, donations, shows and other pleasure gatherings contain no Jesus and give no influence increasing growth, so every true follower discards them at cost of sacrifice while God proves genuineness of faith, coming out and being separate, while seeking, admiring and enjoying worldly things belongs to those not devoted lovers of the cross nor spiritual worshipers of a crucified Jesus.RH Feb 18, 1862 Growth involves daily educating heart and mind and cultivating higher nobler faculties, challenging a life centered on fun and frolic with the question whether one has grown.1MR 381.1–3 Growing is possible to advance in strength, exert good influence and do good, but harmful reading that weakens appetite for solid truth with no effort to redeem the past prevents advancing.CT 328.3+1

Growing in grace and in knowing the Lord Jesus Christ perfects Christian character by daily learning in Christ's school and daily gaining experience in the divine life.Ms 15, 1888, par. 24–26+2 This growth removes self-sufficiency, self-exaltation and self-sufficient debating, and makes a person humble as a little child with Christ's meekness and lowliness and with sanctifying truth in the sanctuary of the soul.Ms 15, 1888, par. 24–26+1 It gives nourishing power to words so they fall as dew, brings to view the fruits of righteousness sown in peace by peacemakers, and gives increased ability to comprehend the deep mysteries of the gospel.Ms 15, 1888, par. 24–26 Knowledge of Christ and His Word is the foundation and fullness of all knowledge, and those greatly unacquainted with Him are dry and Christless, ignorant of their own spirit and unfit for trust, while a character transformed and molded by the subduing, softening influence of His grace finds pleasure in doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.Ms 15, 1888, par. 24–26 Such growth increases reverence, trust and love for Jesus through studying Scripture, recognizing personal weakness, bringing faith into everyday life, relying more on God and distrusting self, and it tests whether religious growth matches received light.Lt 91, 1886, par. 2+1 Taking Jesus as counselor under His yoke and receiving His Spirit makes strong in grace and knowledge, and even the least educated can be elevated and made holy by Spirit and Word rather than remaining content with little, with John showing sanctification by treasuring Christ's teaching of meekness, humility and love and bringing life into harmony with the divine pattern.5T 623.2+2

Diligence to be found in peace without spot and blameless belongs to this growth, with great labor to cleanse from all filthiness of flesh and spirit and to perfect holiness.RH May 6, 1862 Until Christ sitting as Refiner and Purifier sees His image perfectly reflected, His people are made perfect and holy and prepared for translation, every branch constantly deriving life and strength from the parent vine in order to bear fruit.RH May 6, 1862 This is growing in righteousness and purity of character in a world full of defilement, corruption, deformity and sin seen everywhere, and it is the sanctification to be done just before receiving immortality.CH 22.2+2 Bodies must be made holy and spirits pure, with the Spirit of God having perfect control and influencing every action, so that God's people stand untainted amid teeming corruptions in the last days.CH 22.2+4 The work must be undertaken at once, earnestly, heartily and understandingly, with no selfishness, with right hold on heaven and power from above, and with the sanctifying influence felt upon the heart.CH 44.2+2

Increase comes by accepting Christ as personal Saviour, for those weakened by sin cannot keep God's law by themselves, but in His strength they are enabled to obey.ST Feb 11, 1897 Christ came to restore the moral image of God, turning from disobedience to obedience and revealing God's character by living the law which is the foundation of His government.ST Feb 11, 1897 This growth toward Christlikeness turns thoughts and feelings heavenward and is seen in daily improvement of habits and practice, with faith working through love toward a true and pure life.ST Sep 1, 1898 It is the Lord's plan, coming by accepting all Christ's grace and bringing truth and temperance in all things into daily practice, expressed in love for one another as between Father and Son, in speech, in spirit, and in Christian forbearance manifesting the miracle of true conversion with divine vitalizing power as the end is very near.18MR 209.1–2

Growth is seen in increasing piety, purity, holy zeal, integrity and strength to stand for right, with fellowship with Christ giving divine education shown by fervent untiring work and childlike devotion.RH Nov 5, 1914+1 As Christ's words are received, believed and obeyed in faith, faith works by love and purifies the soul, effort grows more earnest, the fruit of the Spirit appears, and the Spirit makes house-to-house labor and Bible readings in families effective with rich experience.7T 38.5+1 Love for the Redeemer is expressed in kindness and loving service to others, with ever-increasing love for righteousness, growing willingness to obey the Word, increased power for good, wisdom from above, and a life reflecting God rather than the worker's own spirit.RH Nov 5, 1914+2

This growth must appear in speech as increased spirituality, and with advancing years must bring increased capability to carry forward God's work.Lt 260, 1906, par. 10 It includes learning in Christ's school to speak wisely of God and the cross, advancing in the divine life, learning self-control, gaining new victories daily, taking Christ into every part of life, and depending on and valuing God's Word with meditation on divine things for daily increase in spiritual understanding.ST Feb 14, 1878+1 God's claims stand first and every ability is given to be improved to His glory, so some progress every day in knowledge and spiritual strength is required, growing up into the full stature of men and women in Christ, stronger and more firmly rooted and grounded in truth, for to remain without decided improvement is loss and to fail to grow stronger is to go backward.CH 430.3 Growth in Christ's character outweighs mere academic advance, making the mind fruitful in good works and guarding against the enemy, and it goes with learning to speak and pray in faith while refusing doubt and discouragement.Lt 36, 1901, par. 5+1

Growing in grace includes growing in self-reliance and self-control, with every step nearer heaven and every day greater readiness to unite with the royal family in the heavenly courts.Lt 8, 1902, par. 13 It includes becoming meek and quiet in mind, resting in the Lord and enjoying His love, with spiritual development advancing rather than remaining unsubdued and intense.Lt 248, 1899, par. 9–11

Growth is visible and practical, shown by self-denial, vital connection with God, and constant learning how to do better work.19MR 23.1–2+1 Love for and knowledge of the truth deepen until truth becomes part of the being, with quickened perceptive faculties and habitual faithfulness to appointed work in humble daily labor for the Master.19MR 23.1–2+1 Progressive study never ends at leaving school and does not rest on three or five years of qualifying study, but continues every day in ascertaining duty and performing it whatever its character, with each child having work in the vineyard and growing by using God-given abilities, learning from Christ and becoming more effective.19MR 23.1–2+2 This inward growth becomes visible in words and conduct in reaching for higher and holier attainments, bringing joy to others who see it as believers stand at the post of duty laboring in the ministry of the Word.3T 465.3+2

Growth means ever-deeper knowledge of Christ with character brought into full conformity to God's will and with cherishing of His attributes.ST Sep 13, 1899 By believing and obeying, a person enters fellowship with Christ and shares the glory revealed through Him, advancing step by step until complete in Him.ST Sep 13, 1899 By looking to the Saviour and beholding with open face as in a glass the glory of the Lord, beholders are changed into the same image from glory to glory by the Spirit, and as they abide and cooperate with Him character is perfected and they are made one and reveal perfection of character.STB 64.3–65.1+1 By beholding Christ people do not remain the same but pass from one stage of character to another, with the Spirit continually working in and through them to deepen and strengthen experience in knowing the Lord.Ms 102, 1901, par. 24 This ongoing daily transformation into Christ's fullness equips to resist self and temptation and brings heaven's spirit into daily life and the home, accompanying God's plan to restore through Christ's death and mediation as character is established in holiness and knowledge of God and Christ increases.Lt 4, 1892, par. 40–44+1

Growth testifies that a person abides in Christ as branch in vine, giving power to discern spiritual truth because spiritual things are spiritually discerned.TSSW 58.1 Grace is found only in Christ the divine pattern, so growth means becoming like Him rather than copying any finite erring person, learning from Him including His meekness and humility toward the measure of His stature.TSSW 76.2–77.1 Keeping the mind fixed on the Saviour with humble trusting faith and prayer for opened understanding to appreciate the Word reflects His meekness and love in life.Lt 36, 1901, par. 3 Spiritual growth begins in union with Jesus and continues in increasing knowledge of God, made visible in Christlike love guarding others' interests as one's own, in conformity to Christ with firm anchorage and watchfulness instead of frivolity, and in living connection with God under the Spirit's control without which people become stunted.Lt 76, 1895, par. 12–13+2

Growing cannot be narrow bigoted hard piety wholly absorbed in self-interest, because all that is done influences others.Ms 16, 1892, par. 8–11+1 It means caring for the things of others, not to covet them but so they may prosper and advance, readily aiding their advancement by imparting knowledge gained, since all powers are given by God to be returned with improvement by sharing.Ms 16, 1892, par. 8–11+1 Those who do this represent Christ, with interest and prayers reaching beyond self to embrace the world, continually receiving light to diffuse light and growing as they try to help others.Ms 16, 1892, par. 8–11+1 By placing themselves in the divine channel of light and blessing they become familiar with the largest plans and most stirring enterprises, receive wisdom from heaven, become more identified with Christ in all His plans as living channels of light, leave no room for spiritual sloth, stagnation, coldness or backsliding while keeping eternal realities in view, rebuke selfish ambition and low self-seeking by contact with higher and holier activities, and grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ.Ms 16, 1892, par. 8–11+1 Unselfish efforts to help and bless keep near Christ in dependence and faith, with self-denial, self-control, mutual help toward perfection, and service to God and others rather than living for self.Lt 46a, 1874, par. 12–15+1

Growth develops comprehension of the science of salvation learned in Christ's school by connecting with Christ the Light of the world and Sun of Righteousness, improving every opportunity to catch His beams, continually receiving grace for grace, and gaining increased spiritual apprehension of eternal truths for this time.Ms 52, 1896, par. 68–70 Every ray improved increases capacity to gather light and shed it forth again, and without this continual receiving the Christian does not fulfill God's purpose.Ms 52, 1896, par. 68–70 This gives breadth to adapt to people and present truth in Christlikeness without repulsing or being repulsed, endowing those saved through belief with Christlike energy whose one purpose is to save those for whom Christ died and to trade on entrusted talents so every soul saved means many saved, while spiritual inaptitude, ignorance and inability is spiritual slothfulness.Ms 52, 1896, par. 68–70+1 Maturity comes through steady use of every opportunity and gospel means, increasing Scripture knowledge and ability to present truth while receiving grace to share it, with learning in Christ's school and close study of the Word preparing able workers thoroughly equipped for good works to God's glory.Lt 126, 1900, par. 11–12+1

Growth means praiseworthy discontent with self in spiritual attainments that urges more earnest effort for greater improvement and broader usefulness, with anxious earnestness to increase and to seek a more distinct intelligent understanding of God's will.Lt 16, 1872, par. 7–8 It means striving earnestly for the mark of the prize with firm religious principle, sensitive conscience and fear of God, in order to attain Christian perfection and spotless robes entitling a person to stand before God's throne among the blood-washed throng with palms of everlasting victory, qualified for usefulness and duty to bless others rather than for honor here.Lt 16, 1872, par. 7–8 It means consecrating all talents to the Lord and straining every nerve to be in word, thought and deed what God desires, never dishonoring Christ by evil surmisings about fellow servants, increasing in spiritual efficiency and daily becoming more beautiful in character while helping one another, until following God in this life leads at last to hearing Son, daughter, come up higher.Ms 149, 1905, par. 13 It is the aim pledged on joining the church, requiring striving to overcome every hindrance by solemn pledge to serve God, full surrender of self so Christ reigns where self reigned, giving up pet ideas and policies, yielding mind to Christ's mind, holding fixed purpose to be one with God and His people, and exercising self-denial and sacrifice to advance His kingdom.Ms 56, 1902, par. 37

Growth is shown by increased ability to grasp the great truths of the gospel and to teach them, coming by watching unto prayer, pleading earnestly for grace, walking humbly before God and laboring in humility with the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom.Ms 98, 1902, par. 25–27 Those so placed to work out God's purposes increase in wisdom and knowledge, with Him at their right hand opening ways of advance.Ms 98, 1902, par. 25–27 It comes by cherishing and cultivating faith, hope and love as heaven-born graces planted in the garden of the soul, making believers bright shining lights to the world, and peace, rest and security are found after such growth.Lt 136a, 1898, par. 21–22+1

Growth builds a round perfect character as the Father in heaven is perfect instead of a flat character, with every talent put into exercise.Ms 155, 1904, par. 79–80 This gives solid foundation in Christ's cross and life, keeps minds from captivity to new strange side issues, fits believers to go forth teaching all things Christ commanded from His life practice, and works with Christ who is with them to the end in getting ready for immortal life.Ms 155, 1904, par. 79–80 It is progression by applying truth to life, not merely assenting to theory or a faultless creed while leading a godless life, making the agent one with Christ, free from perpetuating sin's reign under darkness, thinking and acting intelligently, strong and aggressive in God's mission and high calling, and guarded against great deception.Lt 77, 1899, par. 15

Growth means building for eternity by growing in grace and heavenly-mindedness instead of remaining dwarfed, an upright growth honoring the Redeemer rather than walking crookedly.Lt 133, 1896, par. 1–4 It is the expanding of the spiritual nature as every trait is molded to Christ's likeness, safeguarded from beginning to close by the love of Jesus in the heart and full union with Christ.Lt 356, 1907, par. 15 The heart united to Christ will not come into close affinity with those carrying themselves in self-sufficiency, and the truly humble heart will never sell itself to take part in the enemy's schemes.Lt 356, 1907, par. 15

Growth in grace and wisdom comes by cherishing and following the pure holy principles God declared for dealings with fellow men.Ms 9, 1903, par. 20–21 The directions given to Israel in the wilderness specify the virtues needed for God's approval, and that instruction is for today as well.Ms 9, 1903, par. 20–21 With far greater light the church should stand on vantage ground as obedient subjects, and only by following these principles can believers adorn the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.Ms 9, 1903, par. 20–21+1

Ministers and all engaged in sacred work are bound to keep growing in grace and in knowledge of Christ, undergoing continual moral renewal as they look to Jesus, hating sin and selfishness, becoming conformed to His image and complete in Him not by their own righteousness but by His righteousness, and failure to grow dishonors Christ who redeemed them for willing soul-saving service and leaves them unable to plan advancement and fit each member for suited responsibility.ST2 26.1+4
Those long in ministry must keep growing by taking Christ as personal Saviour and putting Him on, finding in Him wisdom, sanctification, redemption, efficiency and reward with wholehearted dedication as shepherds, for long service alone is not enough when selfish propensities, taste-driven choices, pride, sensuality, ambition, self-esteem and selfish plans are gratified, and even defects precious as hand or eye must be cut away to be acceptable.STBk 93.2+2
Ministers must keep expanding in mind and enlarging in soul by the Spirit instead of drifting light-loaded with work undone, feeling the weight and responsibility of office, training capability for highest service, exercising and taxing powers while trusting God for efficiency, diligently using qualifications and improving talents lest moral power stay weak and work be defective.Ms 8, 1892, par. 18–21
They must reach higher and still higher not by self-assertion, self-assumption and self-confidence but by growth in grace and knowledge, pressing toward the mark of the high calling, keeping faithful watch over self to avoid a hurting destroying spirit, using talents to awaken the world to its lost undone condition, and refusing contentment as those who left first love.Ms 166, 1902, par. 39+1

Those handling sacred things must keep growing until self is hid in Christ and they reach the full stature of men and women in Christ and the divine measure, with sharpened intellect, transformation of mind, subjection of body and mind to God, subdued stubborn will, and freedom from pride, selfishness and partial dealing after Christ's pure unselfish pattern.Ms 13, 1888, par. 24–28+2
Such growth brings full consecration, ability to communicate correct principles, sanctifying power in the heart, power to reach people in preaching and personal contact, presenting Christ as Center and Author and Finisher, deep experience, deeper piety, practical faith, new habits, controlled propensities, burden for new believers and meat in due season, while without it workers lose much, cannot give correct principles or reach people, bury talents, substitute form for power and mislead.Ms 13, 1888, par. 24–28+2
Teachers and students must continually realize need for increase found in the Word as their understanding, communicating its treasures while working thoroughly in other studies to become candidates for the higher life begun here and continued in heaven, and teachers must keep growing with real discernment lest example or mistaken ideas aid Satan.Lt 368, 1907, par. 4–5+2
Publishing-house workers should advance daily in knowledge and wisely develop abilities to work efficiently without loss, and all in important positions of trust must make Christ the pattern to grow in wisdom and aptitude with character molded after Him, for failing to keep the Lord's way brings another spirit controlling mind and judgment, self-devised plans, and removal lest they become hindrance and snare.STPW 27.2+1

Those put on test for ministry must profit by heeding manifestations of the Spirit rather than own way and will, letting the Spirit mold mind and character on God's plan, correct defects, break up old ways and change inherited and cultivated tendencies, for refusal leaves taste unchanged and unfits for sacred work since none can communicate what was never received, and men in trust will either grow in grace or in cold pharisaism with need of responsibility, true conversion, proven tested character, changed attitude and thorough work for eternity.Lt 203, 1903, par. 7–15+1
Growing every day in grace overcomes Satan's temptations and requires God's special help and careful walk, strengthening and upholding as holy influence and instrument of good, and this consecration is especially necessary for those at the head of the paper to fill that place and for periodicals, pamphlets and books to bless the world with light penetrating darkness like a funeral pall, lest demoralization, union with unconsecrated elements, worldly spirit and feeble piety come in.Lt 8, 1856, par. 3–7+1
For the physician this continual growth is joined to gathering the light of the Word with religion governing every influence and holy powerful motives from Christ who gave His life to overcome evil, requiring high aim, high standard, decided improvement with no careless surface work, cleansing springs of conduct, cutting soul-tainting defilement, making Jesus personal confidant, firmness, moral dignity, order, discipline, cheerfulness and cheerful words for the sick, with respect for self and counsel with fellow physicians.MH 117.2+1
A larger growth is for all in Southern California, in Los Angeles and San Diego and Riverside and Redlands, when each considers God gave his work and holds him responsible for talents, employs physical strength to His glory and works intelligently in right relation to God to see His salvation, for now is the favorable opportunity to grow and work.Ms 186, 1905, par. 1

Dr. Gibbs would grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus if he walked humbly with God.Lt 16, 1886, par. 6–8
Growing means setting affections on Christ the Redeemer and looking to God more than any human teacher, not feeling greatly benefited into idolizing ministers, attaching undue importance to man and labors, or looking to man more than God, for applause and petting harm ministers especially the young, true teachers receive words from God with power not of man though manner be faulty, glory and affections belong to God the Giver, ministers are esteemed only for work's sake, and the man must not eclipse the Son so people glimpse Jesus.GW92 44.2–3
Growing means seeking Christ's grace and following where Jesus leads, which for one entering womanhood makes her more truly womanly, wiser by experience, advancing from light to greater light and happier, remembering life belongs to Jesus not self alone.4MR 195.4–196.3
It means reflecting His image in treatment of parents with kind attention and respect, not cherishing retaliation for supposed childhood severity, not hardening the heart as steel nor hating especially a sick old mother, but letting aged parents' helplessness call forth love and noble feeling with kindness as sweetest fruit of Christian life.Ms 18, 1891, par. 6

Young men must keep growing healthfully to full stature in Christ by pressing onward and upward to perfection through deepening refining purifying ennobling grace, with defects lessening as daily they die to self and sin, becoming vigorous in God, conformed to Christ, sanctified by truth, partakers of divine nature, children of light bearing Spirit's fruit, filled with fulness, hid with Christ, channels of light and temple for the Lord doing good to those without light.Lt 26, 1891, par. 10–13
Growing comes by full surrender to Christ and working in His lines to win souls instead of dwelling on vain regrets, which for a grieving mother means leaving mourning for the dead to wisely care for living children and bring them to Jesus, preventing growing cold and giving depth, stability and identification with the Saviour's plans.Ms 83, 1893, par. 4–8
Young believers are privileged to grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus by searching Scripture with interest and following revealed paths of truth and righteousness unto steadfastness and forward movement, and the young should keep growing for knowing Jesus rightly is highest knowledge bringing life and peace with deepest purest love.MYP 121.1+2
Such continual growth marks faithful men who work valiantly, stand in lot and place, do right because it is right in test and trial, and give the mind worthy ample occupation.Ms 139, 1904, par. 7+1

Continual growth is expected of everyone as little children learners with angels round about to help, open to all because God draws near to all who draw near, meaning growth in grace, wisdom and love, looking to Jesus in earnest faith unto rest and peace, partaking divine nature having escaped corruption through lust, overcoming step by step unto vantage ground, and showing child-of-God kindness, patience, helpfulness with no overbearing impatient fretful words while claiming promises in prayer.Lt 42, 1890, par. 11+2
Growth is privilege and duty of every child united to Christ by living faith and putting on Christ, enabling faithful duty and conquering every foe in His might with strength of experience to brighten dying lives with hope, requiring watching, praying, Christian self-respect, example, redeeming moments to bless, glorifying God in body and spirit under account to God, with no excuse for feeble dwarfed spirituality since in giving Christ God gave all heaven's treasures.Lt 68a, 1893, par. 24–25+3
Growth comes by looking away from self to Jesus and unitedly helping souls see truth as required service, keeping the heart tender not hard, learning soul-winning by true interest in neighbors, conversation, presenting truth and pleading in the crucified Jesus' name with lifelong persevering effort worthy of heaven.Lt 30, 1893, par. 40–41
It requires reconversion and sanctification of soul, body and spirit with increase of faith by the Spirit, self-denial, sacrifice, confession, practice and following on to know the Lord whose going forth is as morning, ceasing to stand alone selfishly to proclaim the mystery of godliness, a reconversion half the church needs, for long unsanctified course and professing without practicing alarms the church.4MR 269.2+1

Growth is joined to working with Him, for those not advancing lack strength partly because they are not fellow workers, while laboring for Jesus grows them in Him, teaches His work and sacrifice, and values souls by Christ's price.ST Aug 2, 1883
Even ordinary work such as building or caring for fruit becomes its setting when right principles enter character and work, by communing with God, uplifted prayer, and timely words for spiritual welfare in daily contact.COL 349.3–350.2+1
Growth is active working out of what God works within in kindness, tenderness and helpfulness, not passive reliance or magical change but humble earnest working out of salvation, cultivated by deep understanding appropriating Scripture as spiritual life, appreciating its teaching on growth, daily conversion to simple obedience, dependence on the Lord not human agencies, and seeking perishing souls, as earnest of future glory practicing heaven's spirit on earth.Lt 316, 1908, par. 4–6+1
Growth is revealed when divine truth's principles are worked out by divine agencies with clear proclamation of truth in beauty as God's warning, holding fast fundamentals confirmed by miraculous evidences and rejecting strange doctrines and fallacies, whereupon reformation follows and believers are guarded from being led away with error and falling from steadfastness.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+4
It is a message for those living at the close of this earth's history, commanding continued increase in grace and in knowing Jesus as Lord and Saviour while looking for the coming day of God when the heavens are dissolved with fire and for new heavens and a new earth where righteousness dwells, with diligence to live in holy conduct and godliness and to be found in peace without spot and blameless.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+1
It is the preparation for His near coming for those neither cold nor hot who need a fresh new experience, meaning hastening that day, refusing to be led away with the error of the wicked, remaining united in faith and resisting the enemy together rather than becoming self-confident.Lt 165, 1903, par. 18–19+1
It comes through using every opportunity to know Christ's life and character and being nourished by the Holy Spirit, with sanctification progressive and faith increasing as it overcomes doubts and obstacles, seen in love for worship and willingness to testify and not measured by feelings.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+4

Growth requires learning hard lessons of humility, meekness, dependence and daily submission with obedience to belong to His family, remaining true and loyal, believing truth, learning His meekness, staying learners pressing toward the prize with exercising faith, while self-sufficiency and own understanding hinder, and God helps, strengthens and blesses through purifying trials that test the church not to destroy but to cleanse.5T 485.2+2
Growth means steady increase of devotion by bearing responsibilities in fear and love, looking constantly to Jesus, working with eye single to His glory, inquiring at every step for His way, with truth sanctifying life and honest equity in business, bringing unity, love and confidence, while haste to be rich, selfishness, cunning and false pretense prevent it.Lt 41, 1888, par. 1–2+1
It means daily progress on the upward path where greater heights ever remain, stretching spiritual muscles in heart and brain so each effort reveals abundant grace, and the more Christ's riches are contemplated the more they are possessed, revealing His sacrifice, righteousness, love, wisdom and power to present believers spotless, with accountability to present these riches to the world.Ms 20, 1899, par. 18
Growth at home and wherever one is gives moral power and raises moral tone, requiring watching, praying, strict guardianship of self for connected souls, careful words, respect for authority, guarded spirit and actions, time for personal culture in right principles, example, meditating on the Word night and day bringing it into life, using It is written as sword of the Spirit, and honoring fellow workers with only kind peaceful words and conscientious best effort in fear of God.Ms 13, 1891, par. 20–21+1

Growth calls for deliberate self-education enlarging character beyond fixed narrow self-centered habits, making one efficient in meetings to encourage, speak, lead and hold Bible readings as disciplined witness, without which one fails in church work, while with it life becomes decided, firm, generous and inventive, delighting in meetings, building the church, cooperating with God, replacing worldliness with eagerness to do good, bringing children and neighbors to Christ with more than human power.Lt 112, 1897, par. 1–3+1
Growth is shown in watchful prayerful life resisting habits, careful tongue, seeking chances to bless, looking to Jesus, and steady step-by-step building of harmonious character through good deeds, faith, patience, temperance, benevolence, courage and self-denial reflecting divine light in everyday higher life, with daily discipline giving clearer sense of education's sacredness, living reality of truth, and earnest faith to convert and strengthen souls.Lt 6a, 1890, par. 94–96+1
Growth means advancing in grace, faith and experience through humility, full surrender and reliance on Jesus for overcoming grace, clinging by faith to be upheld with selfishness cleansed and Jesus reigning within in kindness, meekness and humility, drawing nearer not separating, treasuring the Bible to hear God's voice not from duty, praying from the heart not form, bringing troubles to God to know His ways, and living a safe example.Lt 22, 1880, par. 4–7+2
Growth means continuing advance using God-given abilities, learning and receiving spiritual life, earnestness and power day by day with no place to stop responsibility, taking responsibility and faithfully performing duties unto brighter paths to the perfect day, for taking little responsibility dwarfs unto death while faithful workers receive more grace, clearer shining truth, decided conversion, honor as vessels, and full stature, shown in improved talents, increasing light beyond yesterday's blessings, and good works glorifying God and drawing others to righteousness.ST Feb 10, 1887+3

Growth means consecrating soul, body and spirit, bringing mind under control and educating its powers by right exercise as physical powers are strengthened, exercising every spiritual muscle, improving talents in service, and keeping living connection so the Spirit impresses thoughts, words and actions, laboring daily above mere physical exercise with good courage to become intelligent Christians able to give reason for hope, for where God's Spirit does not control another spirit does and growth stops into dwarfage amid loose haphazard laughing jesting atmosphere misusing gifts and opposing sacred things.Lt 21, 1874, par. 9–10+1
Growth comes by honoring Christ, realizing His purpose, taking Him at His Word, continually looking to Him and thinking of His deeds and promises, which changes into His likeness as sunshiny Christians with willing unquestioning obedience to meet darkness and conquer amid tenfold difficulties as Satan with short time hinders, while beholding others' faults dwarfs and enfeebles.Ms 118, 1904, par. 23
Growth in grace and knowing Jesus as Lord and Saviour belongs with valuing God's favor, desiring His face, being steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in His work as doers of the Word walking in present light lest darkness come.Lt 63, 1893, par. 56–57+1
That growth in grace and holiness comes by learning Christ's prayer that all believers be one as Father in Christ and Christ in Father with Christ in them unto perfection, that the world may know the Father sent Christ and loves them as He loved Christ, a lesson of oneness and Father's love for present and eternal good.Ms 11, 1902, par. 24–27

Growth guards by giving larger measure of Christ's mind and Spirit to distinguish light from darkness, heed warnings, overcome defects and walk in His light, because a mind not elevated to highest standard loses power to retain gain and lapses into error, apostasy and open sin, and it strengthens to resist increasing darkness lest one be overcome.Lt 175, 1903, par. 18–19+4
It is opposed to yielding to unholy desires and failing to walk in His light, and it means heeding the danger signals and warnings in God's Word and vigorously overcoming defects of character.Lt 53, 1887, par. 13+1
That measure determines the strength of the church, whose members show faith by works, work for unity against efforts to draw them apart, are separated from the world by the Word and spirit of truth dwelling in hearts, and are bound heart to heart by immutable principles of truth and love.Lt 21, 1886, par. 23+1
Growth comes by entire surrender yielding all unreservedly and abiding to draw nourishment, for outside Him is withering as cut-off branch, requiring sense of need of purity, earnest desire and prayer for the Spirit, and using means within reach rather than expecting blessing without seeking, bringing peace passing understanding and higher life.2T 263.2
It requires making the most of privileges and every opportunity for strength, longing for pure noble character, parting with evil for good, grasping blessings into harmony with God, keeping living union with the Vine, abounding in love and fruits of righteousness by Christ to God's glory, for where life is there is growth and fruit-bearing, and without it spirituality is dwarfed sickly fruitless and dead branches cannot bear righteousness.ST Jun 12, 1901
Growth does not come by blending with the world or its similitude but by resting on the Saviour in complete submission, refusing to be drawn into temptation, learning constantly of Him as safeguard, assurance, happiness, peace, joy and rest in His uttermost saving power, and abiding in continual dependence deriving daily life as branches from vine, for without Him nothing good can be done.Lt 119, 1904, par. 3–5

God's purpose is ever-upward continual growth even in smaller duties of common life, supplied with high holy motives powerful because from Christ who gave His life as incentive to wholly successful character formation, with gifts meant to ennoble and increase wisdom, knowledge and grace when kept under God's direction and practiced daily, strengthening influence in His service.Lt 228, 1903, par. 13–14+1
God's plans carry forward growth through daily sanctification as privilege and duty, which is spirituality and walking according to His will, and the church grows as members make earnest unselfish efforts, train young converts to work, and urge the idle to take responsibility and advance light.Lt 105, 1898, par. 20+1
The verse teaches continual growth as lifelong sanctification of soul, spirit and body by training thoughts, continually beholding Christ as Pattern, and showing discipline even in small duties and conversation, meaning unreserved dedication in decided reformation where full sanctification by truth can occur, breaking health-destroying indulgences for clearer perception of godliness amid a groaning creation.Ms 67, 1895, par. 4–5+1
Growth means earnest unceasing increase in spirituality and true holiness from correct view of endless life with God, turning from pleasure and sin with changed mind, course, company and affection to heaven, scorning temptation, pursued by zeal, persevering prayer for resisting power, diligent use of privileges, meditation on law with self-comparison, fear of sinning in word or deed, heavenly conversation, deep self-denying work, critical heart-searching and thorough work for eternity to lay hold on eternal life.2T 290.1+1

Growth in grace and knowledge comes by dwelling on eternal themes strengthening mind and forming steady principle, and by keeping thoughts in healthful higher purer channel with firm reliance on God to resist desperate temptations, bringing physical and moral improvement, daily cross-bearing, respect for marriage, service for uplift, possession of all things by the overcomer and eternal weight of glory through arranged circumstances.GW92 419.2–420.2+2
Growth is the aim pledged on joining the church, requiring striving to overcome hindrances by solemn pledge to serve, full surrender so Christ reigns where self reigned, giving up pet ideas and policies, yielding mind to Christ's mind, fixed purpose to be one with God and people, and self-denial to advance the kingdom, as privilege to share by living truth daily with Christ dwelling by faith as the Spirit quickens, refines and elevates.ST Oct 11, 1899+1
Growth calls to keep advancing toward perfection from grace to grace, faith to greater faith and glory to greater glory by God's free grace, humbling self for the Spirit to work, putting away pride, malice, covetousness and injustice and putting on kindness, love and generosity while overcoming sin.Ms 16, 1890, par. 40–42+1
Growth means going from strength to strength and light to greater light through constant trust, prayer and faith amid purifying trials, bringing thoughts captive to Christ, dismissing unexpected temptations, gaining victory after victory till the crown, not by endless doing of personal righteousness but by faith and obedience following Jesus' example with His love, forbearance, patience and self-denial helping others to the living way, with continual advancement and readiness through Spirit and determined effort magnifying Christ and lessening self.RH May 25, 1876+3

Growth means increasing in efficiency, purity and knowledge by whole consecration, becoming all light with clear steady rays undimmed by Satan's shadow by keeping meek and lowly, urgent because time is short, and healthy growth is made together by pressing together with differences adjusted, refusing to brood, drawing near to God who draws near, being rooted in Christ, looking to Him and living unto continual progress and power for good.Lt 171, 1897, par. 23+2
Growth is strengthened by remaining faithful amid opposition, for overcoming obstacles increases strength, while seeking easier place where all agree weakens faith and hinders service, with natural traits cultivated where helpful and repressed where hindering, and firm resolve with the Spirit bringing overcoming power regardless of temperament to uplift others and impress hearts in institutions where angels work.5T 422.2+2
Growth requires renewed consecration to God and service, cherishing faith, hope and love as heaven-born graces in the soul's garden unto bright shining lights, and a repentant pardoned sinner grows by turning from evil, learning good, seeking daily help, no longer ruled by self and pleasure, resisting selfish desire, submitting will to Christ and following holiness.RH Feb 14, 1856+2
Growth is living change not mere possession of truth or appearance of faithfulness, accomplished by looking to Jesus, studying and beholding His life unto likeness, working in His way and doing His words, while those not growing lack living connection and saving faith, and experienced life is gained by using time to bless others unto higher purer life with self-denial, cross-bearing and active meeting work, not pleasure-seeking idleness and cheap talk that loses the day and meets judgment.Lt 12, 1892, par. 26–28+1

Growth means progression by applying truth to life not merely assenting to theory or faultless creed while living godless, making one with Christ, free from sin's reign under darkness, intelligent, strong, aggressive, conscious of divine mission and guarded against deception, for truth saves when gladly accepted and seen in life.ST Aug 24, 1904+2
Growth in grace and knowledge of Jesus who is truth is to be constant as heaven desires for God's special work in fear and love, both duty and privilege to present with living testimony by taking God at His word, accepting chastening to partake of divine nature, and continuing daily sanctification through all His designs.4MR 348.4+1
Growth accompanies God's plan to restore through Christ's death and mediation as character is established in holiness and knowledge increases, proved by submission to Christ's will in active house-to-house labor and Bible readings in families bringing rich experience, where receiving, believing and obeying His word makes the Spirit effective with earnest effort, faith working by love, and fruits seen in life.GW 355.1+1
Growth means taking Christ as pattern to follow with wisdom, knowledge and understanding unto likeness, believing and copying Him as lifelong sanctification of soul, body and spirit, and all honored in any branch of God's work must become more like Jesus, treating work as sacred not common, serving unselfishly and using place to reveal God's character.7T 219.2+2

Growth means drawing nearer not declining or separating, treasuring the Bible to hear God's voice, praying from the heart, bringing troubles to plead for His ways, living a safe example, seeking thorough knowledge developing mind as well as spirit, and keeping on to perfect character unto full stature of maturity.RH Jul 19, 1870+1
Christians must keep growing toward full maturity with deeper appreciation of God's love and clearer knowledge of His will, growing in knowledge through sanctification unto likeness to Jesus and eagerness to save souls, daily in grace and efficiency developing abilities to bless and glorify God, progressing mentally, morally and spiritually by faith receiving Christ's character with divine cooperation as Daniel did, drawing nearer perfection through truth as in Jesus, and using gifts to represent truth and win others with increased capability.MWCP 2.2+4
Without growth faith weakens, love feebles and duties are neglected, while Christ formed within shows marked change, requiring spiritual exercise in working opportunities and soul cleansed of selfishness open to His sustaining life.Ms 50, 1901, par. 18–19
Believers are to keep growing as daily living experience with well-grounded hope and trust in promises, advancing in new life and preparation to meet Him in peace, reaching for God in weakness to receive power from above as righteousness is wrought within, with continual growth in knowing God and Christ as essential to serving God and saving others.RH Jun 15, 1905+2

Believers must continue growing in knowledge of Scripture and God's will by using religious privileges of Bible, teachers and books as personal preparation for higher life, drawing close to Christ and remaining faithful through discouragement, for hardships can cause forgetting sustaining truths, ceasing to advance and falling back into decline.Lt 65, 1874, par. 40–42+2
Believers are to grow day by day to speak Christ's words with steady faith and cheerful grateful hearts and to give suitable words for Bible truth by communing with own heart then with God, for without constant growth preaching becomes tame and lifeless through worldly hurry, distractions and neglected communion making efforts fruitless and Christless.Ms 101, 1902, par. 6+2
Believers are to keep growing in godliness from grace to grace until presented perfect, with ministers sanctifying themselves and caring for hearers by teaching and example unto their sanctification, and a church needs sound qualified help to prosper and grow stronger, for under unqualified labors it grows weaker.TCBMP 179.2–180.1+2
Christian life must keep advancing in grace and knowledge by following truth as in Jesus unto continuing faith and holiness, without which experience loses freshness and power while understanding and abilities expand, seen in readiness to leave successful business to devote self to God's work.Ms 143, 1898, par. 13+1

Knowing Christ must keep rising higher with high aim, high standard, decided improvement and no careless work, requiring cleansing springs of conduct and cutting soul-tainting things, making Jesus personal confidant with firmness, dignity, order, discipline and cheerfulness.Lt 128, 1905, par. 12–14
Growth in grace and knowledge comes by fully surrendering and working to win souls with unselfish efforts keeping near Christ in dependence and faith, consecrating all talents, straining every nerve in word, thought and deed without dishonoring Christ by evil surmisings, increasing in efficiency and daily beauty while helping one another unto hearing come up higher.Ms 149, 1905, par. 13+2
Growth is cultivated by cherishing faith not feeling, standing fast in gospel liberty even with crosses, talking faith, rejoicing in hope, keeping praise continually, not depending on excitement, laying hold hourly on Him of all power, putting away gloom and unbelief, telling God's goodness, going to the Word as safeguard, studying God's greatness and cross's glory, and not opening mind to doubts about mysteries to be explained when Christ leads to living waters.Ms 118, 1904, par. 21–22+1
Growth follows when the church is purified from evil speaking and believers advance by diligent study joined to unity and harmonious action, as the soul nourished by intelligent belief personally applies principles revealed before family, church and world.Lt 218, 1901, par. 1–2+1

The verse calls for growth in grace and holiness by learning oneness, and for continual growth requiring deliberate effort and life ordered by God's way rather than impulse or self-pleasing, for life governed by inclination fails with great loss, students need system and order against haphazard failure, and neglect leaves weak immature experience.FE 302.2+2
Christians must not refuse growth because others remain immature or disobedient, for faith should lead to obedience and Christ-shaped life, and all receiving truth are answerable for influence and must become familiar with Scripture step by step to communicate the living powerful Word, prove Christ did not die in vain, labor with God and let light shine in clear steady rays.Lt 119, 1895, par. 5–9+1
Growing in knowledge belongs to deep rich experience with God's blessing seen in changed life, the saints are described as rising and growing, and the personal question remains whether one is growing.5MR 226.3+2
Growth is important alongside usefulness through education, accompanying progress steadily without overtaxing with peaceful trust and God's glory in view, and consecrated life with daily victories comes by daily seeking God's counsel and exercising faith, protecting against temptation and sophistries when the Word is unheeded, for growth is not by working out salvation alone.Lt 36, 1901, par. 4+1

Growth in grace is spirituality hindered when hurried occasional prayers replace real communion, requiring daily prayer as essential as food, regularly turning thoughts to God and bringing back wandering minds until habit is formed, with continued safety and Christ's accompanying presence depending on observing His conditions.MYP 114.4+4
Growth means leading forward and upward toward God's holy standard, equipping to teach and guide others faithfully by instruction and example, enabling service as helpers and power for righteousness, as continual home experience living in Christ's power, improving every habit, keeping before mind conformity to His life, with faith working by love unto true clean undefiled character bent heavenward through humble obedience.Lt 6b, 1890, par. 23–24+2
Growth commands readiness to share, letting light shine in clear rays, treating time as the Lord's and speech as entrusted talent to bless with words honoring Christ not hindering hearers, showing distinction between serving God and not, with conversation superior to chit-chat and fidelity under trial producing attributes pleasing to God as savor of life with helpful uplifting works.Lt 108, 1902, par. 14–15
Growth means workers with different tasks blend to form God's building each filling designed place, and when Christ's prayer for unity is fulfilled this fits them for eternity, as continued growth as members of His living body with Him as Head through knowledge strengthening intellect, bettering and building up in Christ apart from unwanted knowledge not taken beyond.Lt 84, 1907, par. 14+1

Growth means God works with all who submit to increase by conforming to His likeness, giving heaven here preparing for hereafter, making influence a blessing and light amid moral darkness, fulfilling His promise to dwell with and revive the contrite humble.Lt 106, 1903, par. 11
Growth comes only after learning first principles as preparation for life-work, submitting to earthly training for future life without which none sees the King in beauty, cultivating patience, kindness, meekness, goodness, sympathy and tender compassion, purging rough uncourteous unkind un-Christlike dispositions, and partaking divine nature overcoming corruption through lust so pure heavenly graces flourish and heaven begins on earth as fitness for mansions.Ms 29, 1892, par. 19–21
Growth requires taking stand on higher ground and moving steadily onward and upward in Jesus' path without trusting human opinions, standing in God's strength, might and grace, receiving to impart with His upholding, understanding putting on Christ, experimental knowledge of His grace, and continually increasing faith, for sanctification through truth is only safety.Lt 69, 1904, par. 2–3
Christ's sanctifying grace is to be continual life-giving influence with special need for students to grow unto converted souls and knowledge of truth, and growing is possible to advance, exert good influence and do good, but harmful reading without effort to redeem the past prevents advancing.Lt 50b, 1894, par. 6+1

Growth presents growing in grace and wisdom as privilege through Christ's imparted strength, laying aside defects, wearing His yoke, remaining learner, acting with kindness, courtesy and brotherly unity to become strong laborers, for strength comes from only one source, and standing bravely when tried gives victory, nearer perfection, holy light in soul chambers and pure fragrant atmosphere, with faithful forward upward movement as required work.Lt 227, 1904, par. 8–9+2
Growth commands continually progressing in divine life and standing firm against temptation rather than being swayed, with thankful remembrance of mercy, patience and goodness increasing faith and enabling comforting of others with received blessing.3MR 85.1+2
Growth includes seeking favor with God and people, gaining knowledge by following God's will then sharing to serve in harmony with Christ, and it is tied to journey choices, so unsuitable companions would not foster needed knowledge for work among one's own people.Ms 134, 1898, par. 8–10+1
True earnest self-sacrificing Christians controlled by the Spirit with Christ abiding grow daily not doing surface work that dwarfs, understanding more of godliness, melted under conviction, not too self-sufficient for correction, seeing mercy in restraining reproof, and manifesting His tenderness while holding fast to Him who has eternal life.ST May 15, 1901

Growth is joined to ever-growing missionary self-sacrificing experience showing humility, faithfulness, cross-bearing, prompt vigorous action, fidelity to sanctifying truth, sacrifice, consecration, sympathy, patience and captive thoughts, for advancing in knowledge and love is the only way to keep even possessed light, else it dims into darkness with self-tainted works God will not accept, and only thus one remains a channel able to bear solemn responsibilities.Lt 26a, 1891, par. 2
Maturity comes through steady growth with increasing Scripture knowledge and ability to present truth, using every opportunity and gospel means while sharing received grace, with God's servants keeping growing continually, transformed daily and receiving strength from Christ, shown by increased ability in assigned vineyard work, learning in Christ's school to pray and speak, training under the great Teacher unto perfection, daily fitness to help, much fruit, transformed Christlike character and pride dethroned.Lt 126, 1900, par. 11–12+2
Workers for the suffering must keep learning in Christ's school, faithfully use talents and grow in knowledge of God and Jesus, for each child has work in the vineyard and grows by using abilities, learning from Christ and becoming more effective, with continuing improvement preparing for work and saving influence.Ms 103, 1900, par. 11+2
Christians grow through wholehearted diligent service, and loss of interest and failure to give self fully hinders growth on which sound experience and character depend, for taking part as co-laborers caring for souls He died for is mercy, while closing the door to helping stops growth into self-centered narrow bigoted unsympathetic hardness.Lt 93, 1892, par. 41–42+1

Growing comes by exercising abilities where all who use gain increased ability, while doing nothing fails to grow up into Christ and loses possessed strength into paralysis like unused limbs, and those lovingly striving to help become established, strengthened, settled, principled for life not impulse of day or month, nearer mature life, appreciating God's love and gaining ability as grace cleanses selfishness.5T 393.2+1
Believers grow as they are converted while doing God-given work through Christ's grace and strength joined to steady effort after His purpose, and those submitting wills to His will grow in gospel life where faith in Christ as Life-giver brings life and faith working by love purifies so Spirit's fruits and power appear in life and works.STB 233.2–3+2
Growing belongs to prospering, and those blessed with abundance must use it to advance truth to grow and reap reward, for entrusted gifts and faculties used for others in mental and moral improvement increase ability to represent Christ, bless others, represent truth and win souls.Ms 9, 1898, par. 7+3
Growth comes through influences making heavenly-minded bringing Jesus' presence, while gatherings for worldly pleasure such as picnics, donations, shows and other pleasure gatherings contain no Jesus and give no such influence, so true followers discard them sacrificially under proving, come out separate in obedience, and rightly exercise mind and abilities to win souls lest boats, water, business or temporal things absorb attention and take God's place.CT 328.3+2

Growth in grace and depth of experience are affected by natural traits, where helpful traits should be cultivated and hindering ones repressed, and firm resolve with the Spirit brings overcoming power regardless of temperament to uplift others.5T 422.2+1
Growth calls for daily progress depending not on self-reliance, conceit or self-righteousness but on God, receiving His Spirit and coming humbly repentant clothed in His righteousness, by promptly using present opportunities even when obedience involves a cross, lest neglected calls leave less power to be convinced later.5T 69.1+1