5:23Galatians 5:23

Meekness and temperance are the closing graces of the fruit of the Spirit, completing love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness and faith where the Spirit rules.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+2 Against such there is no law, meaning no law condemns these qualities or brings them into bondage, for they are the principles of God's law put into practice in the life.BS 68.2+4 Meekness is Spirit-wrought control of a rash and hasty temper, shown in patience under injury, gentleness when provoked, and lowliness without boasting self-confidence.Lt 116, 1903, par. 19+4 Temperance is ruling every appetite and passion and bringing the body into subjection as the temple of the Holy Spirit, with the higher powers holding rightful dominion over the lower.GC 473.2–474.1+4 This fruit is borne only by personal, daily union with Christ as the branch abides in the Vine, never by talent, knowledge or trust in self, and its presence is the decided evidence of true conversion and a genuine relationship with God.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+4

The closing graces of love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance together make up the single fruit of the Spirit, with charity named among the same graces, and none of them will be missing where the Spirit rules.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+4 Those who abide in Christ have peace and bear them, and against such character there is no condemnation of the law.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+2 These graces are principles of God's law put into practice in the Christian life.BS 68.2 They appear in people made new, so that the proud become meek and lowly and the drunken become sober, as former desires are left to follow Christ and reflect His character.SC 58.3 When they appear they exert a powerful influence on the world, for the truly converted no longer seek greatness, worldly honor, luxury, ease or wealth and are not ruled by sensitivity to reproach or neglect, but self is no longer supreme, Jesus has first place in the affections, and love extends to Christians and all people in doing them good, bringing unity of thought and action.ST Mar 6, 1884+1

Bearing this fruit belongs to being Christ's and having crucified the flesh with its affections, passions, lusts and desires, and to living in the Spirit and walking in the Spirit.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+4 It means the will is enlisted for God and right in inspired commands to be obeyed by manifesting the fruits of righteousness.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24 The renewed heart marked by meekness and self-control opposes anger, strife and uncontrolled temper that make people miserable, and words and actions show the character of faith.Ms 2, 1875, par. 3–8 In context the fruit stands in contrast with the works of the flesh, and believers are to walk in the Spirit rather than be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another and envying one another.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+2 That is the Bible standard of perfection of character by which the tree is known by its fruit, so faultfinding and criticizing fail that standard, while the spiritual restore one overtaken in a fault in meekness, consider themselves lest they also be tempted, bear burdens to fulfill the law of Christ, refuse self-deception and weariness in well doing, and do good to all especially the household of faith.Lt 48, 1893, par. 16–17

Peace and love as fruit of the Spirit stand against discord, strife, hatred, envy and jealousy as Satan's work and sin's fruit.ST Feb 1, 1883+2 Enjoying peace and love requires putting away sins and coming into harmony with God, which brings harmony with one another, with each person asking if he possesses love and has learned to suffer long and be kind, since talents, learning and eloquence without that heavenly attribute are as sounding brass or tinkling cymbal, yet that treasure is lightly valued and little sought by many professors.ST Feb 1, 1883 Two kinds of fruit reveal connection with God: harmony, peace, love and unity from His Spirit working in the heart, with Christlike meekness, benevolence, kindness, mercy and love from infinite wisdom, so those truly connected are not at variance; continual contradiction, strife, envy and jealousy are unholy fruit from a heart not in harmony with Christ and mark the children of Satan, and every person is tested by what fruit is borne.Ms 2, 1881, par. 11 This Spirit-shaped character with meekness, humility, patience, kindness, forbearance and forgiveness brings harmony with God and one another, while Christlike love causes selfish ambition and desire for supremacy to die.Lt 98, 1896, par. 51–54+1 What power controls the heart is shown by the result: divine truth leads to good works, while evil control produces selfishness, covetousness, pride and evil passions, and no law condemns meekness or temperance; in the transformed character wrong dispositions are rooted out and holy tempers and sanctified emotions take their place, shown not centered in self but in loving, unselfish, generous regard for others as opposed to evil speaking, tearing character, bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and malice.Lt 98, 1896, par. 51–54+2

Fanaticism belongs to the works of the flesh produced when Satan's power acts on the carnal mind.LS 96.1–3 Satan clothes his work to resemble truth and righteousness and blinds many so they cannot discern the difference, but the experienced observer sees how infinitely short it falls, because the work of high Heaven cannot be imitated.LS 96.1–3 When fully ripened into bitterness, Satan's fruit stands opposite God's fruit as far as Beelzebub stands from Christ and perdition with terror and black despair stands from the glories of God's kingdom, proving the road to life and the road to death lie in opposite directions and must not be mixed into one compound or condemned together as all of God or all of Satan.LS 96.1–3 By contrast meekness reflecting Christ's humility and benevolence with temperance marks true Christian character and genuine conversion as distinct from fanatic zeal, harshness or mere outward observance, growing as grace works in the heart to God's glory in good works when self is crucified.Ms 118, 1904, par. 7+2

Meekness and temperance are the closing graces that appear when earnest united prayer brings the outpouring of the Spirit in radical transformation.Lt 19, 1887, par. 11+2 The love of Christ shed abroad makes a new creature, purifies what was objectionable, expels selfishness and envy, roots out evil speaking and fault-finding, gives power over personal infirmities and fits for saving others, which is the great need in every church.Lt 19, 1887, par. 11+1 Those in Christ become new creatures whose traits are purified, bearing rich clusters to God's glory more precious than the golden wedge of Ophir, which comes only when the spiritual character of the law is discerned, self-esteem is gone, guilt is confessed with repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus, and the soul is washed; the result is humility ascribing all glory to God, no longer thinking too highly of self or ambitious for greatness, alliance, station or honor, no longer avenging self or sensitive to reproach, neglect or contempt, no longer pulling others down, but gentle, condescending, meek and lowly in Christ's school, talking of Jesus and His love, growing into His image with life hid with God, loving Jesus and souls and bending all energy to win them and increasing in love under trial.Lt 1c, 1890, par. 21–24 These are rich clusters borne by those converted daily and connected to the Vine expressing Christ's character, and the faith, patience, love, forbearance, heavenly-mindedness, meekness, self-control and lowliness Christ claims after His patient care must be possessed, maturing amid storm, cloud and darkness as well as sunshine.Ms 8b, 1891, par. 27–28+1 That patience and long-suffering are displayed by the Saviour in dealing with crooked human material, and following Him means being patient, forbearing and hopeful to the last while remaining discreet, and not surprised when men and women disappoint because Jesus alone is infallible.Lt 10, 1886, par. 31

Meekness and temperance belong with peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness and faith as fruit borne only by abiding in Christ as the branch abides in the living Vine, never by trusting in self which causes certain falling.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+2 Bearing them belongs with being Christ's and having crucified the flesh with its affections, passions, lusts and desires, with living in the Spirit and walking in the Spirit, and with refusing vainglory, provoking one another and envying one another.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+1 This abiding is personal, daily and ongoing, ever improving, ever drawing near to God, ever uplifting the soul to Jesus, beholding the Redeemer to be changed into His image with new spiritual life and new motive power, trusting His promises for ever-greater strength, receiving life directly from Him, striving through His imputed righteousness to keep God's commandments, and cooperating with God in keeping the soul in the love and faith of God.Ms 3, 1890, par. 2–4+2 Those who abide prove it by pure words, unselfish planning in the meekness and lowliness of Christ, and softened hearts full of sympathy, love and compassion, not fractious when things displease them because they are not their own but bought with Christ's blood to glorify God in body and spirit, and they pray for this fruit and use abilities and powers rightly to make acceptable fruit possible with purified heart and faultless character.Ms 148, 1897, par. 15–16+1 Giving way to impatience and fretful, selfish speech and thought under bodily suffering and neglect drives God's Spirit from the heart and gives place to Satan's attributes and ground, while abiding keeps self-control and peace.21MR 117.2–4

The life-giving power comes from Christ as sap from a vine's root sustains its branches, renewing motives, affections and secret thoughts and producing holy deeds, so the believer as a branch bears rich clusters expressing Christ's character to God's glory.HSP 16.7+2 As a person receives Christ's Spirit of unselfish love and service these graces ripen in character along with the other fruits, and the person increasingly reflects Christ's pure and lovely character through the Holy Spirit working in the soul to produce beauty of character.HSP 16.7+2 These rich clusters are borne by those converted daily and remaining connected to Christ the Vine, and the beauty surpasses outward show because it is Christ's own character reproduced.Ms 8b, 1891, par. 27–28+1

When one is fully emptied of self and every false god is cast out, the vacuum is supplied by the inflowing of the Spirit of Christ, faith works by love and purifies the soul from every moral and spiritual defilement, and Christ dwells within as a well of water springing up into everlasting life.Ms 3, 1890, par. 2–4+1 The Holy Spirit as Comforter then influences and directs the heart to enjoy spiritual things, truth is constantly unfolded and received with meekness, and the believer as a branch of the True Vine bears rich clusters to God's glory with God receiving all glory and no goodness or glory claimed for self.Ms 3, 1890, par. 2–4+1 This fruit comes from Christ rather than human goodness or merit, arising as Christ lives in the soul and puts what is good into life, words and teaching, and its character is positive and opposite to evil: love not hatred, joy not discontent and mourning, peace not irritation, anxiety and manufactured trials.Ms 3, 1890, par. 2–4+2 Those who have this spirit are earnest laborers with God with heavenly intelligences cooperating with them, a spectacle to the world, to angels and to men, ennobled and refined through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.Ms 3, 1890, par. 2–4

Knowledge, eloquence, talent, ambitious scriptural study and skill in controversy or in mastering opponents cannot produce love to God or conformity to Christ's image, for nothing but divine power can regenerate the heart and imbue the soul with love for Christ which ever shows itself in love for those for whom He died.SCE 10.2+1 Without yearning of soul after God, searching the heart for lurking wrong, desire for the oneness of disciples as Christ is one with the Father, divine love, and the gentleness and meekness of Christ, knowledge begun in ambition and carried forward in pride leaves the soul destitute, not wise unto salvation and not a true Christian.FE 240.1 Christian character as fruit produced in the soul by the Holy Spirit's working cannot be imparted by one person to another but comes only when a person yields to the Holy Spirit, falls upon Christ the Rock and lets the old nature be broken up, for without that inward work regard for truth and advocacy of truth degenerates into mere form leaving the soul destitute of the Spirit and unprepared in crisis.ST Jul 20, 1915 Self-control can to some extent be cultivated even without special grace, which rebukes those who may receive God's strength and grace yet do not show the Spirit's graces, and Christ meek and lowly is the model to imitate in seeking perfection and overcoming as He overcame.3T 336.1

The Holy Spirit produces meekness and temperance by creating the new person in righteousness and true holiness after Christ and shaping the person into Christ's likeness, with the Spirit directing the person rather than the person directing the Spirit.Ms 142, 1903, par. 67–68+1 Gaining this fruit means working out salvation with fear and trembling while God works within to will and do, not with a pompous overbearing spirit, and means having crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts and then walking and working in the Spirit without vainglory, provoking and envying one another.Ms 142, 1903, par. 67–68 When the Spirit takes possession of the heart sinful thoughts and evil deeds are put away and love, humility, peace and joy take the place of anger, envy, strife and sadness, a change visible in actions and countenance though the Spirit's work itself is unseen, coming as the soul surrenders to God by faith and is created anew in God's image.MYP 158.1+1 The Spirit's influence is Christ's life in the soul purifying mind and heart, proceeding from Christ to renew motives and affections and bring thoughts into obedience to God's will to enable holy deeds, while also working upon the mind to produce faith, warning the impenitent, pointing them to Jesus, and giving those who seek to work with God light, wisdom and effectiveness.4MR 332.4–6+2

The fruit grows naturally and beautifully as seeds of truth sown in the human heart, for people are God's husbandry and the heart is a field to be worked, with God's impress molding the mind into graceful symmetry and training crude physical and mental energies for the Master's service through all vocations of life.MYP 211.1 It grows as naturally as rich clusters of grapes grow on the living vine in the one who loves God and keeps the way of the Lord, with Christ as stronghold, cherishing Christ's love in the heart and practicing His lessons, loving Christ as Christ loved God, sitting at the feet of the meek and lowly Jesus, realizing nothing can be done without Christ by his side, and demonstrating the abiding presence of Jesus more fully with living faith that works by love and purifies the soul.Lt 78, 1896, par. 13–14 The bearer is an evergreen tree planted by rivers of water, always bringing forth fruit in due season, always fresh and green with unwithering foliage because he represents Christ's character through oneness with Christ as the Bread of life, prospering in whatever he does because he labors not merely for this present life but for an eternity of blessedness.Ms 39, 1896, par. 7–8 Growth comes by keeping the mind stayed upon Christ and constantly looking to and patterning after Him as personal Saviour, growing up into Him in all things with growing faith and sanctified conscience, becoming more like Him in works and words and believing His Word, while natural and cultivated traits are greatly improved, selfishness cut away, and pure sympathy as sure fruit of righteousness constantly grows through perfect trust and living active growing faith strengthened by hard struggles.4MR 356.3+2 Then He comes as the former and latter rain and as the Sun of Righteousness with healing, causing growth as the lily and reviving as the corn and growth as the vine, supplying salvation through the cross of Calvary and expressing the similitude of Christ's character by studying God's Word and making it the rule of life.Lt 106, 1908, par. 17+1

Abundant provision has been made through Jesus the divine Redeemer so that all who desire to live a godly life may have grace and strength to bear this fruit with love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness and faith, having crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts.RH Aug 24, 1916 The Christian life is therefore not to be one of burdens and cares, although the cross must be lifted and burdens borne, because God's servants draw peace and strength from the Source of their strength and find life full of happiness and peace.RH Aug 24, 1916 Neglect to do what Christ told men to do leaves them destitute of these fruits and dwarfed in religious experience, while learning to rely upon God in difficulties grows faith and experience and gains the spiritual strength that bears them as the mark of healthy religious experience.Ms 11, 1883, par. 7 These qualities are manifested in a life shaped by faith that trusts God, appropriates His promises and allows Him to sanctify the character, revealed as people seek right relationship with God and grow in grace and knowledge of the truth, taking root deep in the best soil, the Word of the living God, depending on Christ, believing in Him, observing His commandments and ordinances, and faithfully discharging stewardship of His grace to grow strong and be rich in good works in spirit, word and action.OEWP 10.2–11.2+2 This fullness comes from bringing the Saviour into the life and weaving Him into the character, drawing all spiritual nourishment from Jesus as the life of the soul, and it is God's will that believers discern His love and matchless mercy rather than remain in sorrow and discouragement.Lt 10, 1887, par. 4–5

Meekness is a grace worked by the Holy Spirit in the sanctified life, received with the Word in faith and humble trust before God.Lt 116, 1903, par. 19+2 It masters the rash, impetuous, hasty temper, so that those naturally sour or hasty make earnest daily efforts to gain self-control and overcome what is unlovely and unlike Jesus until they become more like the divine pattern.HSP 17.2+2 It is shown in patience under trials and injuries, in gentleness when provoked, in kindness and in lowliness rather than high regard for self, proving the Spirit is shaping the character.MYP 136.1+2 Through Christ it brings thoughts and words under God's will, disciplines the tongue, brings emotions under reason, and curbs bad tempers and evil propensities by continual effort and strength from Jesus whose spirit must rule.MYP 136.1+2

Habits of restraint are formed as thoughts and feelings are brought under God's will, reason and religion, for unrestrained thoughts shape wrong feelings and moral character, while yielding to suspicion, doubt and complaint brings misery and failure.MYP 92.1+1 Temperance as self-control is cultivated by choice and effort, especially control of words and actions under provocation, tantalizing and reproach, obtaining mastery over a nervous temperament so as not to lose self-control, flash out in anger, speak impatiently, or let an evil spirit break out in words not unto salvation.ST Mar 1, 1905+2 It must be striven for continually even into old age, because one who claims to be a child of God must be clothed with Christ's righteousness and give a right representation of Christ, and angry speech gives accusers true reason for their charges.RH Apr 28, 1910+1 Meekness is not developed in a moment but is acquired through years of experience, holy effort and firm adherence to what is right, by which the children of God seal their destiny.RH Apr 28, 1910+1 This belongs to the science of Christianity, requiring the mind to be disciplined, educated and trained to serve God against inborn inclination, to overcome hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil, to discard a lifetime's training to become a learner in Christ's school, to educate the heart to be steadfast in God, to form habits of thought that resist temptation, to look upward, and to bring every act, word and thought in daily life into accord with principles of the Word as high as heaven and compassing eternity.8T 314.1–2+1

Where Christ is present in the heart, harshness and sharp words give way to gentle speech, good temper, patience, long-suffering, love and integrity, and gentle, kind, uplifting words are the fruit borne while harshness is overcome.ST Mar 1, 1905+1 Meekness is inward adornment of a converted life, appearing when the carnal mind is subdued and the heart is changed, replacing pride and concern with outward appearance.1T 162.2–4+2 Words and conduct become gentle, courteous and refined, for truth received into the heart transforms the character and softens harshness and roughness, showing an inward change.ST Oct 30, 1879+2 When Christ's Spirit fills the heart it transforms the whole character, making people tender, patient, kind and sympathetic and replacing harshness and coldness.ST Oct 30, 1879+2 Heavenly truth taking hold of the heart refines and purifies, making a person courteous, kind, affectionate and pure rather than rough, rude, careless or hard-hearted, removing selfishness, love of the world, pride and ungodly ambition.1T 162.2–4+1 Value in the Lord's sight does not come from dress but from inward adorning with the graces of the Spirit in the kind word and thoughtful consideration for others, calling for doing without unnecessary trimmings and laying aside the means thus saved for the advancement of God's cause, and the meek and quiet spirit valued above outward adornment is the inward evidence of practicing truth in daily life.MYP 314.1+1

The fruit ruling in the heart and controlling the life as love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, bowels of mercies and humbleness of mind is not boisterous, noisy, boasting self-confidence, but a humble joy leading to abasement of self.LS 86.2–88.3+1 Where the Spirit of God is there are meekness, patience, gentleness and long-suffering, with tenderness of soul and a mildness which savors of Christ.Ms 1, 1878, par. 6–9+2 This gives evidence of passing from death unto life, from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to God, and easily distinguishes the child of God from a presumptuous self-deceiver.LS 86.2–88.3+1 The true test of being filled with the Holy Spirit is love, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, meekness and temperance, not noise, harsh expressions, rough language and empty shouts of glory and hallelujah.LS 86.2–88.3+1 One who professes great faith and wonderful fullness of the Spirit yet lacks tenderness and comfort for the weak and fainting, who is unteachable, proud in spiritual things, jealous, easily provoked when corrected, boastful, self-exhibiting and seeking attention through pretended outward humility, does not exhibit Christ but self and is controlled by Satan while supposing to be led by God.LS 86.2–88.3+1 True believers walk after the Spirit with the Spirit of God dwelling in them, making them meek and gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy, love and good fruits, swift to hear and slow to speak, while its absence is shown in an exacting, tyrannical, overbearing, impatient, fiery temper that is slow to hear and swift to speak, unwilling to learn, to receive reproof or counsel, and quick to judge others.Ms 1, 1878, par. 6–9+1 The truly righteous bear the Spirit's fruits naturally without boasting about goodness or religious attainments, for Christ's life was marked by humility and meekness in contrast to religious display, and meekness with humility marks true sanctification with temperance belonging among the other Spirit-given virtues.ST Sep 21, 1882+1

Meekness is Christlike mildness, kindness and forbearance rather than needless sternness or authority, with temperance keeping love pure and free from sensuality, consistent with the law so that a person may live by its requirements while treating others with kindness.Lt 16, 1888, par. 48–51+2 It is learned from Jesus who is meek and lowly, fostering mutual forbearance and charity, helping reconcile differences and unite workers in service, and shown in walking humbly with God in a life of faith and trust that displays the Spirit's fruits.4SP 176.3+2 As believers look to Christ they are changed, casting aside pride, vanity, self-esteem, self-righteousness and unbelief, and walking humbly, meekly and trustfully before God in love, patience, gentleness, goodness and mercy.Ms 84, 1894, par. 17–18+1 Living in the Spirit and walking in the Spirit bears this fruit in character and action without striving for the mastery, without overpositive untimely utterance, without egotism and Pharisaism, agreeing as far as possible on points of harmony, making no effort to create an issue, and speaking the truth in love because truth and Christ dwell within, so that spirit and actions speak louder than profession.Lt 16, 1888, par. 48–51+1 Such a life is sanctified through the truth and conformed to the image of Christ, filled with all the fullness of God, hid with Christ in God, sustained by humility, prayer and knowing God and Jesus Christ, becoming a living channel of light whose heavenly character, though unseen, is manifest as walking as children of light and drawing others to Christ and to truth.4MR 47.4–49.2+1 Meekness is to be cultivated with careful deportment and unceasing diligence to watch unto prayer, and its blessing is realized only by the self-sacrificing, humble, meek and lowly ones, while self-indulgence, carelessness, neglect of duty and too good an opinion of self deprive of it, so that those given great light and great privileges are responsible to cherish every ray shining on their pathway in order to keep this grace.Ms 84, 1894, par. 17–18+1

Meekness with humility, love and patience as fruit of abiding in Christ is opposite to vainglory and to a harsh, dictatorial, overbearing spirit.4T 365.3+2 These graces oppose impatience, fault-finding, an overbearing disposition and uncontrolled passion, calling for calm and tender treatment of others, for Christ's people crucify the flesh and its passions, whereas allowing the lower nature to control the spiritual reverses God's order.4T 365.3+2 Harsh treatment and ungentle words show the presence of Satan rather than Christ, for the love of God produces the fruits of the Spirit and a spirit at odds with those fruits is out of harmony with God.Lt 21, 1901, par. 23–24+1 True Bible religion through the Holy Spirit leads people to govern themselves rather than control one another or exalt themselves over Christ's flock.STB 513.2+1 Where the principles of truth are enthroned, human passions and affections are guided and controlled by Christ's Spirit, self is hid in Jesus, managers become discreet, pure-minded and righteous, and men sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him, which is the opposite of Pharisaism, pride and loftiness, a controversial combative attitude, and the desire to take the place of God by assuming authority and ruling over fellow men.STB 513.2+2 Satan steals away meekness by filling the heart with desire for the esteem and applause of men and for first place in every calling and work, and where meekness is lost the person becomes dissatisfied, feels looked upon as inferior and denied due respect and self-glory, and is controlled by another spirit that envies, is jealous, demerits the one envied, magnifies any fault found in him, and seeks to injure his reputation.Lt 21, 1901, par. 23–24+1 The Spirit of Christ should control believers and shape their dealings with others, opposing anger, harshness, superiority and misuse of authority, so that Christian workers act with love, consideration, mercy and justice, strengthening rather than hindering one another.4T 365.3+1

Meekness together with faith, hope, patience, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness and mercy is called into action when people face opposition or difficulty.RH Aug 28, 1900+1 Exercising meekness, patience, forbearance, gentleness and long-suffering strengthens these graces, and practical care for people in need — including feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick, and helping widows and orphans — also brings a deeper experience of God's blessing.RH Aug 28, 1900+1 Such fruit should mark the life and reveal the sanctification that comes through daily practice of heaven's principles, for Christ's religion softens, subdues and sweetens the character.Ms 93, 1903, par. 7+1 Meekness with love, charity, kindness, longsuffering, gentleness and goodness are the highest and noblest qualities to be brought into character building by everyone entrusted with capabilities.19MR 305.2+1 They require proportionate accountability for treasures of wisdom, using talents in purity and sacred holiness as a worker together with God, keeping all natural and hereditary traits under strict control, being born again to live Christ's life, refusing to place self on the throne or give self the supremacy, battling the powers of Satan so that not one thread of selfishness or covetousness is drawn into the web, and giving the worker next to him an equal chance for advantages and encouragement so the talents of all are strengthened and developed.19MR 305.2+1 These fruits are the clear and decided marks of true religion to be enlisted in faithful service to God, supplying the close test by which character is known, rousing the soul from clouds of doubt to a sense of its privileges, forbidding listlessness, drifting with circumstances and false security, making calling and election sure, and bringing corresponding returns to God, with the rewards of eternity purchased by Christ yet rigidly proportioned to works.RH Aug 28, 1900+1

Temperance is health of body as well as health of mind, requiring the restraint of appetite and passion and the preservation of physical and spiritual powers in the best condition for service to God in a life of holiness and consecration.GC 473.2–474.1+2 True sanctification embraces the entire being, spirit, soul, and body, so the body is brought into subjection and kept in healthful condition rather than enfeebled or defiled by indulgence of appetite or passion.GC 473.2–474.1+2 Belonging to Christ means crucifying the flesh with its affections and lusts, abstaining from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, cleansing from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, and perfecting holiness in reverence for God.GC 473.2–474.1+2 Sinful gratification dulls the faculties and weakens the heart's response to the Word and Spirit, while resisting bodily appetites and refusing to defile the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit brings blessing to both body and soul.ST Apr 19, 1910+2 Daniel shows that religious principle can help young people resist fleshly desire and remain true to God even at great cost, since one compromise could lead to further wrongdoing and separation from God, and the Bible is the standard on health.4T 570.2+1

Temperance is ruling every appetite and passion instead of being enslaved by any hereditary or cultivated habit or tendency and held in bondage to the lower nature.CH 472.1+1 The higher powers are to have rightful dominion over the lower, with taste elevated, appetite controlled, and passions subdued through temperance in all things.20MR 54.1+1 Those who trust in Christ are not left to battle evil in finite human strength but can overcome inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong through the power God is ready to impart, standing in God-given manhood and womanhood as conquerors under Christ's banner.CH 472.1+1 Indulged appetite is the greatest hindrance to mental improvement and soul sanctification and lies largely at the foundation of physical and mental debility, feebleness, and premature death, yet the one seeking purity of spirit can have power in Christ to control appetite and advance continually.20MR 54.1+1

Temperance and self-control must be studied and practiced by total abstinence from indulged appetite for alcohol and stimulating drinks, not by moderate use within bounds.20MR 106.2–107.1 Unnatural craving is overcome through aroused moral powers, full cooperation, and looking to Jesus and trusting His grace.20MR 106.2–107.1 The body is God's purchased property to be presented as a living sacrifice, kept in healthful condition for His service with intellect clear and active and all powers controlled.20MR 106.2–107.1

Temperance means self-control in the full acceptance of the term, learned so that a person controls himself and attends to building his own character.RH Jun 2, 1904+1 It is a character that must be possessed by those accepted as fellow workers in God's institutions, including those at Washington, D.C. and Mountain View, California, and men who have not learned this self-control must not be brought into them.RH Jun 2, 1904 Those who serve there are to keep the spirit sweet, pure, and holy rather than neglecting character-building to make plans for someone else, cultivating kindness, forbearance, longsuffering, gentleness, and patience in a disciplined life so as to be ready to use heart and mind in helping and blessing those ready to die.Ms 79, 1903, par. 11+1

Temperance is one of the fruits produced in the truly sanctified who walk after the Spirit and not after the flesh.ST Oct 5, 1882+1 It stands opposite the lusts of the flesh such as idolatry and drunkenness, and its presence brings freedom from condemnation and from fulfilling fleshly lust.ST Oct 5, 1882 Those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts, cleansing themselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit and perfecting holiness in the fear of God.ST Oct 5, 1882 Living under the perfect control of the Spirit in every action produces righteousness, purity of character, and growth in grace, and amid surrounding defilement and sin God's elect must stand untainted with bodies made holy and spirits pure in earnest, understanding preparation for immortality.CH 22.2+1 Granting any indulgence to the passions loses the precious heavenly graces one by one and imperils the soul with entire, eternal loss, with Satan substituting his own attributes, so sin must be fled as from a poisonous serpent while remembering life is lived in full view of heaven with every secret thought and act clear before God's searching eye.Lt 24, 1893, par. 8–9+1 Claiming to keep God's law only in spirit while living in impurity and breaking the Ten Commandments is not the Spirit's fruit but evasion of truth, for the Spirit brings the renewed heart into harmony with God's law in obedience, self-denial, cross-bearing, steadfastness, and faithfulness to duty including the Sabbath of the fourth commandment.RH Oct 17, 1907+1

Self-control means resisting impatience and fretfulness, speaking kindly, and remaining calm even when ill, tired, or burdened, with grace sufficient to overcome natural infirmities.CT 233.1+1 Parents must exercise it to avoid spreading irritability through the family and causing others to suffer, subduing themselves, controlling words and facial expressions, and keeping voices from agitation and passion so they can guide children well under renewing grace.1T 385.2–386.1+1 Teachers under discipline to Christ must train themselves not to speak hastily or lose control, controlling temper and feelings and exercising patience and Christlike forbearance, since impatience and dictatorial behavior harm students and lack of self-control in that role is sinful.CT 233.1+1 Those led by the Spirit are slow to anger and do not let offense, criticism, or slander govern conduct, but overlook trifling offenses, leave reputation in God's care, and answer false reports through upright living rather than angry words.Ms 24, 1887, par. 37–38+1 Meekness appears as kindliness and humility while temperance appears as mastering oneself and restraining cutting words and exaggerated criticism, helping people support one another and correct wrongs without further harm.Ms 24, 1887, par. 37–38+1

The new life in Christ marked by patience, kindness, and self-control means in marriage refusing to control one another, overcoming selfishness, and serving each other, and God's grace enables this change.RH Dec 10, 1908 Temperance as self-control for daily home life requires parents to model it and teach children self-denial and control from babyhood.ST Apr 20, 1882+1 Children should learn to eat to live rather than live to eat, keep appetite subject to the will, and govern the will by calm, intelligent reason.ST Apr 20, 1882+1 This work belongs especially to the mother as principal teacher in the home school from the cradle to maturity, who needs patience, self-command, kindness, calmness, meekness, and temperance from Jesus to mold minds and fashion character.20MR 299.3–301.1+1 The more calm a mother keeps under provoking conduct, the better she maintains influence and dignity and the more easily children are controlled without arousing combativeness, stubbornness, and defiance, while harsh words, passionate blows, threats, scolding, and brute force only raise resistance and are reflected back in unsubmissive deportment.20MR 299.3–301.1+1 Diet materially affects mind and disposition, so eating what is nourishing but not stimulating keeps nerves calm and temper even, making patience easier in dealing with varying tendencies of children and enabling firm yet affectionate government, and the mother herself learns life's most valuable lessons in this teaching.Ms 2, 1877, par. 17+1 She cultivates these graces in her own words and deportment by being calm and unhurried, free from excitement and nervous haste, keeping children as free from excitement as possible, and with tender interest teaching little ones self-denial and subduing natural sinful inclinations as a pattern to them, for kind, patient, calm discipline gains souls while fretful, harsh, severe rule trains and ruins but does not bless and save.20MR 299.3–301.1+1

Against such qualities no law brings condemnation and no law brings them into bondage, for meekness and temperance with self-control stand as fruit of the Spirit and true reform bears that fruit.Ms 4, 1902, par. 23+4 Those who teach and minister must first share in these fruits by bridling the disposition and seeking the meek and lowly character that makes room for peace and contentment.6MR 84.5–85.2+2 Grateful attention to the privilege of knowing the truth and to redeeming love fosters that change of character into peace and contentment.Lt 119, 1900, par. 18 The fruit of the Spirit includes love and meekness set against anger, enmity and harshness, and when they shape family life they bring kindness and peace into the home and influence others.Ms 20, 1888, par. 20–27 They are to be made visible in conduct as evidence of inward sanctification, replacing harshness and coarse speech with humility and Christlike gentleness in a humble, careful life marked by love, patience, forbearance and gentleness through which servants reveal God to others.19MR 209.2–210.1+1

These graces are principles of God's law put into practice in the Christian life.BS 68.2 Bearing this fruit means abiding in Christ and living according to the requirements of the law, with no condemnation of the law falling on those who bear it, bringing glory to God.Ms 20, 1888, par. 16–19 Experiencing this fruit means not being under bondage to God's law but being free in Christ Jesus and walking in liberty, because Christ puts what is good into life, words and teaching while there is no goodness in self and no glory to self, and because the will is in harmony with the will of God and all His commandments are loved.Ms 3, 1889, par. 10 As people are guided by the Holy Spirit the fruit becomes evident in heart, life and character, magnifying God's law and advancing the kingdom of grace so that this Spirit-shaped character helps reach and save others.HSP 21.6 A heart renewed by the Holy Spirit brings forth that fruit, and through the grace of Christ the Spirit enables believers to obey God's law written on their hearts and to walk even as Christ walked.RH Nov 16, 1916+1

Through the grace of Christ the renewed heart accepts the righteousness of Christ for pardon and lives in obedience to the law of God written upon the heart, having the Spirit of Christ and walking in delight to do God's will.PP 372.1–373.1 This transformation under the new covenant leads to obedience to God's commandments with love as an abiding principle toward God and toward others, reproducing the character of Christ so that harshness, pride and insistence on one's own opinion give way to tenderness, patience, goodness and unselfish concern for saving others.Lt 26, 1894, par. 5–6 The fruit is borne by those who abide in Christ as the branch abides in the vine and who strive through imputed righteousness to keep God's commandments.Ms 148, 1897, par. 15–16 Those who bear it represent Christ and are not fractious when things do not please them, because they are not their own but bought with Christ's blood to glorify God in body and spirit, having crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts and living and walking in the Spirit without vainglory, provoking one another or envying one another.Ms 148, 1897, par. 15–16 They prove they are fruit-bearers by pure words, unselfish planning in meekness and lowliness, and softened hearts full of sympathy, love and compassion, with no law standing against such character.Ms 148, 1897, par. 15–16

The fruit of the life that God expects in a pure and holy character includes godliness, self-denial for others' good, and a meek and lovely heart, together with penitence, faith and obedience, with Jesus as the perfect model who obeyed all His Father's requirements so that following Him means carrying out God's holy law.HSFM 180.4 Genuine faith makes meekness and self-control visible in practical life in kindness of words and actions and peace in the home, for heavenly power can quell tumultuous passions, so merely professing truth or accepting doctrine intellectually is not enough unless truth shapes character and life.ST May 22, 1884 The fruits of the Spirit are the convincing testimony that a person has genuine truth, for when truth sanctifies the heart the receiver becomes gentle, kind, forbearing, true and Christlike, and that spirit attending the advocacy of truth gives evidence of genuine truth.9MR 329.4–331.2 An unchristlike spirit that does not produce meekness, gentleness and the fruits of righteousness refutes a doctrine and cannot be received as testimony for truth, and the fruits themselves have weight and are not to be weighed by an interpretation of the law in Galatians nor required to bear the stamp of human ideas to count.9MR 329.4–331.2

True teaching on the law must sanctify those who hold it and produce fruit after Christ's order, for right ideas are not enough if those who hold them are not sanctified through them.9MR 327.4–328.2 When the result is a harsh, closed spirit that resists investigation and is not true, open and frank, with fruits bitter as gall rather than Christian, it fails the test of the verse, which makes having a Christian spirit and Christian character the vital question, more vital than differences over doctrinal points that are not vital.9MR 327.4–328.2 The Spirit of Christ set forth in the fruit must be cherished, for failing to cherish that Spirit and taking wrong positions in controversy over the law brings sad loss, and many take a wrong position on that question without fully understanding it.9MR 331.3

Revealing this fruit in the life is the decided evidence of true conversion and of faithfulness to baptismal vows, and only those who become partakers of the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world through lust will be granted eternal life.12MR 260.1–261.1+4 Without that work of true conversion in the heart the experience remains sickly, with zeal chilled by formality, worldly ambition, pride and love of self, with feeling stirred only at times, and with no falling on Christ the Rock in broken repentance and confession.CH 129.1+3 Escape requires beginning in earnest without delay to work out salvation with fear and trembling.CH 129.1+2 The nature and abundance of that fruit show whether a person is a living branch of the True Vine truly united to Christ, and show the sanctifying power of truth.12MR 260.1–261.1+1

Profession without such fruit is like a leafy but fruitless tree and faces God's curse, for want of these graces shows the carnal mind still remains despite profession of truth and shows no living connection with Christ and no sanctification through the truth.Lt 21, 1901, par. 16–17+2 Those who become new creatures in Christ Jesus bring forth meekness and temperance with love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness and faith as evidence of the genuine, in a complete reversal where they no longer walk according to former lusts but follow in His steps, reflect His character, purify themselves even as He is pure, love what was once hated and hate what was once loved.ST Nov 7, 1916+2 The proud and self-assertive become meek and lowly in heart, the vain and supercilious become serious and unobtrusive, the drunken become sober and the profligate pure, laying aside vain customs and fashions of the world and seeking not outward adorning but the hidden man of the heart in the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit.ST Nov 7, 1916 There is no genuine repentance unless it works such reformation, in restoring the pledge, giving again what was robbed, confessing sins, and loving God and fellow men, which gives assurance of having passed from death unto life.ST Nov 7, 1916 The opposite fruit of continual contradiction, strife, envy and jealousy is unholy fruit from a heart not in harmony with Jesus Christ and marks the children of Satan, while meekness like Christ's with benevolence, kindness, mercy and love originates from infinite wisdom and produces harmony, peace, love and unity so that those truly connected with God are not at variance with one another.5T 305.4–306.2+1

Absence of the graces shows no living connection even if outwardly a church member, for membership in the church does not make a person a Christian.15MR 300.3–301.3+3 A Christian is Christlike, representing the character of Christ as Christ came in the likeness of sinful flesh to condemn sin in the flesh and represent the character of God, and the secret of unity is union with Christ the great Center, with believers approaching one another just in proportion as they approach Him.15MR 300.3–301.3 Joining the church and being baptized is not proof of joining Christ, because without the new birth and death to self there is no rising to newness of life and no fruit.Ms 148, 1897, par. 5–7+2 Thousands who claim to be religious and have strict religion and zeal like Paul had before Christ revealed Himself to him are not Christians.Ms 148, 1897, par. 5–7

The verse gives the Bible standard of perfection of character by which the tree is known by its fruit and by which every idea of perfection must be tested.Lt 48, 1893, par. 16–17+2 They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts, and if they live in the Spirit they must also walk in the Spirit, not being desirous of vainglory, provoking and envying one another.Lt 48, 1893, par. 16–17+1 Faultfinding and criticizing fail that standard, while the spiritual restore one overtaken in a fault in the spirit of meekness, considering themselves lest they also be tempted, bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ, refuse self-deception about being something when nothing, refuse weariness in well doing, and use every opportunity to do good to all, especially to the household of faith.Lt 48, 1893, par. 16–17+1 When one is fully emptied of self and every false god is cast out, the vacuum is supplied by the inflowing of the Spirit of Christ, faith works by love and purifies the soul from every moral and spiritual defilement, Christ dwells within as a well of water springing up into everlasting life, and as a branch of the True Vine the believer bears rich clusters to the glory of God.Ms 3, 1890, par. 2–4+3 The character of the fruit is positive and opposite to evil: love, not hatred; joy, not discontent and mourning; peace, not irritation, anxiety and manufactured trials.Ms 3, 1890, par. 2–4+2

Bearing the Spirit's fruits tests whether a person is truly a Christian at heart even if regarded as faithful and belonging formally to the church, for Judas was unchanged because he did not receive and practice Christ's words.Lt 51a, 1895, par. 29+1 A life opposed to the Spirit's fruits denies Christ, while humility, love and devotion show that Christ is abiding within and that truth is sanctifying the life.Lt 51a, 1895, par. 29+1 When God's Spirit rules the heart it produces harmony, love and unity, while envy, strife and jealousy are the opposite fruit, and every person is to examine what fruit is borne.TBC1882 11.2+4 Those truly connected with God cannot be at variance with one another, for God is benevolence, mercy and love.5T 28.2+1 Pride and neglect of self-discipline are inconsistent with those fruits.RH Jun 12, 1855

This fruit does not perish but produces a harvest leading to eternal life, and when Christ's character is fully reproduced in His people He will come to claim them.COL 68.1–69.1+1 It marks those who will stand approved of God in the near judgment when every work and motive is revealed and rewarded, and who will enter the holy city, in contrast to striving for supremacy and seeking to be first, selfish unholy ambition, speaking to the disparagement of associates, vainglory, provoking one another and envying one another, which are attributes of Satan that close the gate of heaven and leave that class without the city.Lt 11, 1887, par. 3+1 Those who bear this fruit have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts, humble themselves under God to be lifted up, strive for spirituality and are willing to suffer for Christ, and if they live in the Spirit also walk in the Spirit.Lt 11, 1887, par. 3+2 Drawing close to Jesus and adorning profession by a well-ordered life and godly conversation keeps feet from forbidden paths, and watching continually unto prayer and doing everything as in the immediate presence of God saves from yielding to temptation and keeps pure, spotless and undefiled unto the end, so that holding the beginning of confidence firm unto the end establishes the way in God and what grace has begun glory will crown in the kingdom of God.Ms 9, 1880, par. 55–57+2

Love, joy and peace are necessary marks of the Holy Spirit, for Jesus breathes upon those who follow Him by faith into the holiest with light, power, and much love, joy and peace.EW 46.2+1 Satan answers those still bowed before the throne who do not know Jesus has left it with an unholy influence that has light and much power but no sweet love, joy and peace, and the absence of those fruits exposes his attempt to carry on the work of God, to keep them deceived, and to draw back and deceive God's children.EW 46.2 The Spirit's work is evident in good works and a quiet, humble influence, not in deception, accusation or boasting, and the Christian's steady loyalty to God amid conflict and opposition reflects this Spirit-shaped character.GW92 311.3+1

Want of these graces is proved under test and affliction such as sickness by impatience, fretfulness and demanding great attention, and the same want is shown by speaking against physicians, tearing down instead of building up, and by selfish, covetous claiming of the best advantages without giving to support the work.Lt 10, 1886, par. 29–30 These qualities are part of the character Christians must develop by heeding the Spirit, and failing to do so brings spiritual blindness.Lt 18, 1888, par. 3–5+1 The call to meekness bears directly on refusing suspicion, evil speaking, unjust criticism, envy, self-will, a hard and unsubdued spirit, bitterness when others disagree, and acting on impulse and natural feelings, with meekness named alongside forbearance, gentleness and charity as qualities of a life growing in holiness and spiritual strength as envy, pride, malice and jealousy are overcome.Lt 18, 1888, par. 3–5+3

Bearing this fruit proves that the kingdom of God is enthroned in the heart by Christ's abiding presence and the Holy Spirit dwelling within, that self and a selfish spirit no longer control, that the baptismal vow is sincerely kept through Christ's intercession, and that the person is truly dead to sin with the life hid with Christ in God rather than claiming God's service while unbelief and a perverted will bear witness against the truth.18MR 105.1–2 Those who choose to become children of the heavenly King must bring words and actions into harmony with the principles they profess by bearing the fruits of the Spirit in the life-practice.18MR 105.1–2

Temperance belongs among the fruit of the Spirit and means resisting bodily appetites and refusing to defile the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit, and keeping the Bible requirements in this matter brings blessing to both body and soul.4T 570.2+1 Daniel shows that religious principle enables young people to resist fleshly desire and remain true to God even at great cost, since one compromise could lead to further wrongdoing and separation from God.4T 570.2 Daniel and his associates illustrate the same lesson by abstemious habits that preserved mental vigor, because physical habits affect the mind.MYP 241.3

Gentleness, goodness and long-suffering are qualities every laborer for God must possess, and they constitute the successful workman in God's cause.FE 342.2–343.1 Moses lacked them when he trusted his training in Egyptian wisdom to deliver Israel and killed an Egyptian to redress his people's wrongs, and that violent act manifested a murderous spirit and proved him unfit to represent the God of mercy, love and tenderness.FE 342.2–343.1 God permitted his failure, loss of confidence and flight to teach him those very qualities in order to fit him for delivering His people from bondage.FE 342.2–343.1 The sweet qualities seen in Joseph's life were absent from the Jewish nation in Christ's day despite its outward show of piety, and its failure to bear good fruit made it a hindrance rather than a blessing to the world.COL 215.1–2

Meekness and temperance are fruits of a life truly connected with God, marked by humble, quiet struggle against evil and victories over temptation and wrongdoing, with meekness seen in efforts made in lowliness rather than self-display.BS 11.1 The fruits of the Spirit arise naturally in a life shaped by love for God and other people, and the truly righteous person does Christ's works willingly and humbly without boasting or drawing attention to personal goodness or religious attainments.BS 12.1–3 They appear in life and works where the gospel sanctifies, where the mind is kept on Christ and patterned after Him, where faith grows and conscience is sanctified, and where faith in Christ gives life and the will is submitted to God.RH Jul 8, 1909+1 Study of the Word changes the whole character and gives constant growth in grace and holiness, with the Word serving as strength, fortress, high tower, consolation, instruction, guide and sanctification, purging selfishness and revealing love, joy, peace, longsuffering and gentleness with refinement and true godliness in the new creature in Christ.Lt 30, 1907, par. 11–12 Believing and living the gospel sustains spiritual life and enables these fruits to appear in daily life, for feeding on Christ's Word makes disciples grow like Him and reveal His character in unselfishness, integrity, kindness and love, while trials reveal the reality of love and faith and bring the steadfast character of Christ's followers to light.BS 11.1+1

Value in the Lord's sight does not come from dress but from inward adorning with the graces of the Spirit, and the graces God values are the kind word and thoughtful consideration for others.MYP 314.1 Those who practice truth in daily life are trees of righteousness bearing the fruits of the Spirit by the inward working of the Holy Spirit upon the heart, revealed in true ministers as the eternal truth of the kingdom of God in contentment with simplicity, attention to study of the Word, praise to God from the heart, valuing inward adorning above outward adorning with the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, and having no guile in the mouth.9MR 299.1–3 The meek and quiet spirit valued above outward adornment is the inward evidence of practicing truth in daily life and bearing the Spirit's fruit as the Lord's sons and daughters grow in efficiency.9MR 299.1–3+1 A meek and quiet spirit with loving, sympathetic tenderness is the adorning Christ approves and the fruit that distinguishes God's people from the world, testifying of itself in good works and proving that those who have it are wearing Christ's yoke and have received the gift of the Holy Spirit.Ms 141, 1899, par. 18 This inward character calls for doing without unnecessary trimmings and laying aside the means thus saved for advancement of the cause of God.MYP 314.1

The fruit makes people new, so the proud and self-assertive become meek and lowly in heart, the vain and supercilious become serious and unobtrusive, the drunken become sober and the profligate become pure.SC 58.3+2 This change lays aside former lusts and vain customs and fashions of the world, purges selfishness, hardness, ungodliness and defects revealed when light shines into the chambers of the mind, and cleanses the soul temple.2MR 43.2–3+2 It is seen in disposition, words and actions as followers by faith follow in His steps, reflect His character, purify themselves even as He is pure, love what was once hated and hate what was once loved, and seek not outward adorning but the hidden man of the heart in the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit.Ms 9, 1880, par. 55–57+1 There is no genuine repentance unless it works such reformation in restoring the pledge, giving again what was robbed, confessing sins, and loving God and fellow men as assurance of having passed from death unto life.ST Nov 7, 1916

When this fruit appears it exerts a powerful influence on the world, for self is no longer supreme and Jesus has first place in the affections, with love extending to Christians and all people and moving the believer to do them good.ST Mar 6, 1884+1 The truly converted no longer seek greatness, worldly honor, luxury, ease or wealth, and are not ruled by sensitivity to reproach, neglect or contempt, nor by seeking earthly alliance, station or honor, nor by pulling others down to uplift self.ST Mar 6, 1884+1 Those who bear it represent Christ by pure words, unselfish planning in His meekness and lowliness, and hearts softened with sympathy, love and compassion, and they are not fractious when things do not please them because they are not their own but bought with His blood to glorify God in body and spirit.Ms 148, 1897, par. 15–16+1 This calls for putting away prejudice, contention and division and cherishing love, deference and respect among brethren, for the secret of unity is union with Christ the great Center, and believers approach one another just in proportion as they approach Him.GW92 364.2+1 Workers are to let God plan His own work and appoint differing gifts and opportunities, praise Him for opened ways and evidences of His love and care, take God at His word, watch and pray trustfully, see all things in an unselfish clear light, cease looking at discouraging things, and help fellow workers by encouraging words as a father and receive their help while standing together against the enemy.Lt 187, 1901, par. 6–7

Meekness and self-control mark a renewed heart rather than the carnal mind, opposing anger, strife, uncontrolled temper, impatience, selfishness and evil speech, while no law condemns these Spirit-produced qualities.Ms 2, 1875, par. 3–8+1 Giving way to impatience and fretful, selfish speech and thought under bodily suffering and neglect drives the Spirit out of the heart and gives place to the attributes of Satan and to Satan's ground, while abiding in Christ keeps self-control and peace.21MR 117.2–4+1 Want of these graces is proved under test and affliction such as sickness by impatience, fretfulness and demanding great attention, and by speaking against physicians, tearing down instead of building up, and by selfish, covetous claiming of the best advantages without giving to support the work.Lt 10, 1886, par. 29–30 Envy and jealousy must therefore be emptied speedily out of the soul as rubbish and replaced with meekness, gentleness, patience, kindness and love, for leaning upon God and drawing strength and nourishment from Him makes a person strong so gossip and talebearing do not change his course, while harboring them and letting gossip affect deportment makes him weak and worthless.Lt 37, 1879, par. 5–6

These graces must be cultivated in the heart and in families at home and in the church by seeking the Lord with personal application, humbling self before God, hiding in Jesus and abiding in Him with complete consecration and willingness to do and suffer cheerfully, looking constantly to Jesus and not at the faults of brethren, and asking in earnest, humble, steady, constant faith that God will answer with rich blessings.Lt 154, 1903, par. 11–12+1 This dependence purifies the heart, refines, purifies and ennobles thought, desire and action, purifies the defiled soul temple, makes acceptable fruit possible, results in a faultless character, and enables right use of abilities and powers.Lt 154, 1903, par. 11–12+1 When these graces with joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, faith and charity reign in the home they bring contentment and shape family life, and they are precious attainments gained one after another as increase of spiritual power, turning those weak as water into those mighty in God and bringing men and women to the full stature in Christ.ST Apr 4, 1911+2 Heaven is ready to impart this never-failing source of strength and will help all who take hold of the help provided, and the fruit is borne in rich clusters that make bearers more precious than the golden wedge of Ophir as they cease to think more highly of self than is right, ascribe all glory to God, learn in the school of Christ, talk of Jesus and His matchless love, grow into His image, bend whole energy to win souls, bow in prayer when trial comes because of unselfish love, hide the life with Christ in God, and hold every church dear and every member of interest as the purchase of His blood.RH Jan 9, 1900+1

The fruit is to appear in daily life through kindness, meekness, patience, cheerfulness and love, making faith a steady principle rather than an outward display that changes with circumstances.ST Apr 6, 1882+1 It is borne in word and deed by revealing a Christlike character in patience, kindness, courtesy, pleasantness, tenderness and sympathy, and in home life this means conceding ideas and opinions rather than manifesting superiority.Lt 198, 1901, par. 10–11 Such a humble, consecrated life marked by gentleness, goodness and patience brings peace in the home, helps through difficult encounters, opposes anger, enmity and harshness, and gives power to lead people to Christ.Ms 20, 1888, par. 28–35+1 Welcoming Jesus into the home checks impatience and selfishness, and exercising self-control by choosing pleasant, cheerful words when fretful strengthens self-control and makes the nerves less sensitive.ST Apr 17, 1884 Keeping the eyes fixed on Jesus reveals a compassionate Redeemer and brings light from His face, and wherever His Spirit rules peace abides with joy that comes from calm, holy trust in God.MYP 404.1

Family members, especially parents, are to be controlled by the Holy Spirit and show Christ's love, kindness and tenderness at home, exercising right control over children without anger or indulgence.4T 362.2+1 Controlling the passions, keeping pure thoughts and purposes, and showing patience, meekness and long-suffering when provoked are part of representing Jesus at home and are precious to God.GW92 217.1 Parents must subdue a child's evil temper while young before it takes deep root, correcting in love and not in passion or anger, and then carry the child to God in prayer for Him to do what they cannot do by tempering the disposition and making it mild and gentle by His Holy Spirit.9MR 323.1 God loves to answer that prayer when parents have done their part, but He despises prayer that asks Him to do the work while parental duty is neglected, for He Himself corrects those who go astray and requires parents to correct disobedience, passion and evil temper in their children.9MR 323.1 This grace also heals alienation between relatives such as a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law and leads to prayer for one another when natural ways and habits are changed and the Spirit rules in the heart.Ms 63, 1896, par. 23

The fruit is to be revealed in every act and in all actions by those connected with God, who mingle the incense of Christ's merits with all they do and preach sermons every day by faithful actions, doing their very best.RH Jun 24, 1902+1 They learn diligent working from Christ's life on earth, share with one another their experience in gaining a knowledge of God, return to God the very best in freewill offerings, and labor in unselfishness and faithfulness and with intelligence and purity in every business transaction, leaving no dark corners for dishonest deeds.RH Jun 24, 1902 In constant dependence sustained day by day by Christ's constant intercession, by worship and seeking His counsel in humility and earnestness, and by prayer and holy song ascending as sweet incense, they carry forward as laborers together with God under His watch the work of erecting institutions for the uplifting and blessing of suffering humanity.Ms 39, 1900, par. 11–12 The Spirit-shaped character puts away discord, selfishness and strife and leads people to serve others like angels of mercy, bringing happiness to families and society and joining people closely to God.ST Jan 23, 1893 These fruits are seen in lives marked by peace and piety, suppressing vice and fostering order and harmony, and they can unite a community by removing quarrels, hypocrisy, envy and strife.GC 181.3

Conduct marked by this fruit is purified from selfishness, ungodliness, deception and greed, and belongs with being Christ's and having crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts, with living in the Spirit and walking in the Spirit, and with refusing vainglory, provoking one another and envying one another.Lt 106a, 1896, par. 24+1 Drawing close to Jesus and adorning profession by a well-ordered life and godly conversation keeps feet from forbidden paths, and watching continually unto prayer and doing everything as in the immediate presence of God saves from yielding to temptation and keeps pure, spotless and undefiled till the last.Ms 9, 1880, par. 55–57+2 Holding the beginning of confidence firm unto the end establishes the ways in God, so what grace has begun glory will crown in the kingdom of God.Ms 9, 1880, par. 55–57+1 These qualities were revealed in the lives of those who returned to the gospel faith, and their lives glorified God.AA 388.2–3

The beauty of character produced in the soul by the Holy Spirit surpasses outward beauty, wealth, status, human achievement, imposing display, expensive architecture, furnishings, and attainments that win applause, which have no value in themselves and must be held subordinate to higher interests, having worth only as they express the inward work.STB 175.2–4+1 The choicest productions of art have no beauty that can compare with this character, which is how the kingdom comes without outward show, through gentleness and inward fellowship bringing human nature to the perfection of the character of Christ.MH 36.4+1 These heavenly graces, including meekness and temperance, are the highest attainments and bring perfect contentment and satisfaction, for they do not depend on circumstances or human judgment but are bestowed by the Saviour on those who earnestly desire them.ST Mar 23, 1882 A well-balanced character bearing kindness, long-suffering and gentleness testifies to the power of Christlike character.Ms 158, 1902, par. 90–91

The fruit will be seen in the life of workers who do house-to-house work and give Bible readings in families, showing growth in grace by submission to the will of Christ.9T 141.2+2 As in faith they receive, believe and obey Christ's word, the efficiency of the Holy Spirit is seen in their life-work with intensity of earnest effort, and cherishing a faith that works by love and purifies the soul brings the fruit to view and makes life-work effective.9T 141.2+1 One who is a guide and example to others must reach a higher standard by sanctifying grace and a close, living connection with God, grasping the promises, pressing close to Jesus, improving every means of grace, and being an ever-growing Christian with strong faith, complete consecration, perfect love, ardent zeal, steady advancement in knowledge and love of Christ, spiritual discernment, and the eye single to the glory of God.Lt 22a, 1889, par. 13–14 Meekness, gentleness and temperance with kindness, forbearance, humility and respectful courtesy in a minister influence people more powerfully than preaching alone, gain confidence, reach hearts and win souls.3T 232.3–233.1+1 Under the Holy Spirit's influence and discipline to Christ, teachers control temper and feelings and exercise patience and Christlike forbearance as graces of practical religion, and patience, longsuffering, kindness and compassion are among the qualities a Christian leader must exemplify as evidence of spiritual growth and connection with God.9MR 153.3–4+1 The daily Christian life and duty must be taught by practical instruction and presented in personal life beyond preaching alone, meaning patience, meekness, forbearance, long-suffering, cheerfulness and joyfulness in the truth without love for controversy, and this lived example gives full proof of ministry.Lt 60, 1886, par. 8

A director must learn to control himself so that no word of scolding or anger is heard, because such words dishonor Christ and bring reproach on the name of Christian.Lt 196, 1901, par. 24 Church school teachers must possess Christ's patience, kindness, mercy and love, with His righteousness and peace and grace, and bring them into daily experience with a humble estimate of self, without vain conceit, as humble faithful workers filled with the true missionary spirit who put trust in God and do work in His name.Ms 67, 1901, par. 3 Young men and women in the school of Christ must learn patience and longsuffering, gentleness and love and be doers of them so they can take the same position they require their pupils to take, for teachers who are fitful, changeable, moved only by feeling, overbearing through unbelief and resistance to God, and acting on suspicion and jealousy show themselves bundles of inconsistencies, narrow-minded and belittling, and unfit to deal with human minds.Ms 101, 1894, par. 5 Moving to a new place or changing employment does not produce meekness and temperance with kindness, patience, helpfulness and contentment, because a change of place does not bring a change of heart where disaffection remains, so each person must look at himself in the light of the Word, see where improvement is needed, and learn to be kind and patient and helpful where he already is.RH Jun 2, 1904 Speech and behavior both in religious meetings and outside them should be chaste, modest, elevated and blameless, not reckless, trifling or careless.SG4 310.1

The graces of the Spirit should characterize a true gentleman and minister, for good natural abilities and knowledge of truth are no equivalent for them.Ms 9, 1879, par. 11 Without them a man's spirit and manner are offensive to God and his influence is detrimental wherever he remains long enough to develop his true character, and when much self is mingled with truth the truth tastes so strong of self that it becomes unpalatable even to those whom God is impressing, so that even the best efforts put forth trusting in one's own strength are so deficient that it would have been better had the work never been done.Ms 9, 1879, par. 11 Brotherly love and kindness are fruit of the thorough working of the Holy Spirit in human hearts, and Christians must represent the beauty of the grace and love that dwelt in Christ the great Teacher, for where this fruit is not the order of experience men displease the Lord by serving self in the management of His work.Lt 175, 1899, par. 3

The daily Christian duty must be taught by practical instruction beyond preaching alone, meaning patience, meekness, forbearance, long-suffering, cheerfulness and joyfulness without love for controversy.Lt 60, 1886, par. 8 This fruit is expressed in obedient, self-denying service and in words that comfort, bless and strengthen others, in works that build others up and spread what is good, and in heavenly qualities such as love, pity, kindness and tenderness whose actions bring happiness and a peaceful, Christlike influence to others.Lt 43, 1902, par. 19+1 These qualities are to be cultivated in relationships with people of differing minds and temperaments, helping believers restrain bitter words, put away evil suspicions, and live in human brotherhood.Lt 64, 1888, par. 11 When God's love abides in the heart it produces genuine growth seen in patient, self-denying and considerate conduct at home and in all dealings, and this fruit is not put on for appearances.Lt 95, 1901, par. 20–21 It is traits of character such as love, tenderness, kindness, compassion and affection that Jesus desires believers to produce by faith laying hold on a living God and by His presence and truth shining in the heart and pervading all life actions, to be presented before the world as a witness that they have a Saviour who can uplift and satisfy and who is their efficiency, proving they are branches of the true vine, and if they bear this fruit they may expect the Great Husbandman to prune away all that is useless and hindering so they may bring forth more fruit and reveal His character by sanctification of the Spirit in heart, disposition, conversation and dealing with others.Ms 37, 1908, par. 5–7

In schools made more like the schools of the prophets, with the Bible made the great lesson book, students are to become thorough students of the Bible and doers of the Word, digging deep and laying a sure foundation through obedience to all the requirements of God, preparing to graduate to the higher school.Lt 252, 1908, par. 6–7 This stands opposite the manifest works of the flesh — adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings and such like — and they that do such things shall not inherit the kingdom, while they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts, and if they live in the Spirit they also walk in the Spirit, not desirous of vain glory, provoking one another or envying one another.Lt 252, 1908, par. 6–7 The Spirit-shaped character puts away discord, selfishness and strife and leads people to serve others like angels of mercy, and these graces including patience, forbearance, longsuffering and gentleness are expressed through words and conduct as the love of Jesus and must be cherished rather than allowed to be quenched by absorption in business and temporal concerns.12MR 104.2–105.1+1

Those who have the Spirit will not persecute one who conscientiously differs in faith, will not force the consciences of fellow men, and will not strive to make others observe rites that have no foundation in the Word, for forcing conscience shows Christ is not abiding in the heart and reveals the attributes of Satan.Ms 148, 1897, par. 5–7 Joining the church and being baptized is not proof of joining Christ, because without the new birth and death to self there is no rising to newness of life and no fruit, and thousands who claim to be religious and have strict religion and zeal like Paul had before Christ revealed Himself to him are not Christians.Ms 148, 1897, par. 5–7 When persecutors receive the Spirit of Christ, Christ and Him crucified will absorb the whole soul.Ms 148, 1897, par. 5–7 The fruit displayed in the life is a confession of Christ, showing that His character and the truth's purifying influence are at work in the heart, and such a life is humble and bears righteousness and peace.1T 303.1–2+1 An impatient, passionate spirit is contrary to this witness and must be overcome, and a hasty spirit is overcome as the heart grows tender toward others and the life is devoted to Christ's work.1T 303.1–2+1 This Spirit-produced character cannot be displayed without watchfulness and persevering prayer, and lives purified by grace reveal the Spirit's work and bear witness to Christ, with meekness, kindness, mercy and love habitually exhibited, trials patiently borne, blessings gratefully received and temptations firmly resisted as lights shining forth in character before the world.SG4 249.1–2+2

Doing God's Word produces a humble circumspect walk marked by love, forbearance, long-suffering and gentleness.Lt 78, 1896, par. 9–10 This life reverences and respects God, shows that the believer works under His administration, manifests God to the world, and makes believers lights in the world, in contrast to exalting human wisdom, trusting finite changeable erring men, and spreading speculative theories, doubt, fault-finding and unbelief.Lt 78, 1896, par. 9–10 Pleasantness, joy and love are revealed through Jesus Christ by giving up self and taking Him, enabling steadfast work that does not give up too easily when corruption everywhere and self in even devoted workers brings sadness, and that does not spend all strength without rest only on those who already know the truth.RH Sep 12, 1907+1 Love, joy and peace are among the gifts God gives through the Spirit, whose grace and power prepare His people for service and zealous good works, and these qualities accompany a life of simple obedience and trust, helping believers present the arguments of Christ's cross and make melody in their hearts to the Lord.8T 247.3+1

Practicing truth through sanctification in God's institutions requires cutting off selfishness, including grasping for higher wages, authority or power.Ms 216, 1902, par. 6–7 Workers who follow the Lord's self-denying path should act with equity rather than manipulate arrangements for their own advantage.Ms 216, 1902, par. 6–7 Keeping in the love of God is revealed by an indwelling Saviour and the fruits of sacred, holy truth brought into the inner sanctuary of the soul.Lt 8b, 1891, par. 4–5 Love for God and the Saviour, in whom all hopes of eternal life are centered, cannot be too strong, and large affections given by God are right when they flow to proper objects with ardent zeal and overflowing love for Jesus.Lt 8b, 1891, par. 4–5 The fruit does not make a person cold, unsympathetic and unloving, but directs sympathies into safe channels, while soft sentimentalism woven into association with young girls and women is contrary to that fruit, does harm and only harm, must be discarded at once and forever, and never appears in any man or woman who loves God with all the heart.Lt 8b, 1891, par. 4–5 Meekness and temperance are graces that must appear in a life governed by true religion, controlling self, overcoming evil temper and fretfulness, and helping people act with patience and care toward their families.Lt 22, 1861, par. 4–6

Meekness and self-control belong to Christlike character, shown in loving, unselfish conduct and in making peace rather than fostering envy and strife.Lt 34, 1894, par. 13–22 A Christian should govern mind and words, act with patience and grace, and correct others kindly rather than impulsively or harshly.Ms 13a, 1891, par. 14–17 The Christian graces of patience, self-command, kindness, calmness, meekness and temperance give a mother power of example, for the more calm a mother keeps under provoking conduct the better she maintains influence and dignity and the more easily children are controlled, without arousing their combativeness, stubbornness and defiance.20MR 299.3–301.1 Harsh words, passionate blows, threats, scolding and brute force only raise resistance and are reflected back in unsubmissive, insubordinate deportment, making burdens heavier, while kind, patient, calm discipline gives power of example for good seen in the deportment of children and gains souls to the fold of Christ, whereas fretful, impatient, harsh and severe rule trains, rules and ruins but does not bless and save.20MR 299.3–301.1

The character given by the daily endowment of the Holy Spirit means faith, hope, courage, large love, joy, peace and divine charity ruling in the heart, with the peace of God ruling within to give moral efficiency for responsibility.Lt 86a, 1893, par. 25–27 It produces a calm, subdued dignity in ministry to relieve suffering, a daily baptism of brotherly love without dissension like the apostles of one accord, and proof of having learned of Jesus.Lt 86a, 1893, par. 25–27 These qualities surround the soul with an atmosphere that invigorates the spiritual life of all who inhale it, have power to propagate themselves, bring health to mind, body and soul, and especially transform and assimilate the impressionable minds and hearts of children and youth by divine grace to mold their characters.Lt 86a, 1893, par. 25–27 It makes a person a living channel of light conveying Christian principles to other souls through patient, protracted, incessant effort, victory through Christ, coming close to brethren, cherishing faith and confidence in them, and a gentle, loving spirit that shines as a bright light.Lt 86a, 1893, par. 25–27

The fruit appears as clusters of rich graces such as love, joy, peace, gentleness, goodness and meekness, which make the life attractive as a fruitful branch in a beautiful vine when a person gives himself in surrender to the claims and influences of the Saviour.Lt 65, 1884, par. 22 These fruits show that the Christian tree is sound and that worship is marked by true consecration, not merely by impressive music or instruments, and Christians are to develop Christ's attributes together as brothers.Ms 139, 1899, par. 4 The fruit is of greater worth than neatness, for godliness comes first while cleanliness and order are secondary, and it is more precious than gold.ST Aug 5, 1875+1 Through earnest prayer and watchfulness God's grace enables believers to keep evil besetments and desires under control and to show the Spirit's fruit in a thorough reformation of the heart.1T 158.2–159.1+1 It replaces self-praise and an independent spirit with true humility and childlike simplicity pleasing to God.Lt 5, 1860, par. 3

The Spirit's graces overcome restless loneliness and weak, fixed notions, and overcome timidity, fear, loneliness and narrow, restless attachments.Lt 6a, 1860, par. 16+1 A contented, peaceful mind is a fruit of undefiled religion, and when these troubled attitudes persist they show a lack of faith and confidence in God and of the truth's purifying influence.Lt 6, 1860, par. 13–14 Meekness and self-control are expressed by patience and restraint rather than a spirit of driving others, and the Holy Spirit's sanctifying influence imparts meekness expressed in gentle words and actions in home life.Lt 145, 1900, par. 2+1 The graces are shown by true followers in faithfulness to truth and duty including the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, for claiming to keep the law only in spirit while living in impurity and breaking the Ten Commandments is not the Spirit's fruit but evasion of truth.Ms 62, 1886, par. 54–56 They mean religious fervor, steadfastness to the faith, piety, self-denial and cross-bearing, brought into exercise by the perils of the last days to make an army of faithful ones firm for duty.Ms 62, 1886, par. 54–56

Christians are judged by the fruit they bear, and dress and its arrangement upon the person is generally an index of the man or woman.Ms 109, 1909, par. 4 The fruit is not grown by making it the chief study to follow the ever-changing fashions of this world, but by being diligent in fashioning character after the Pattern given in the Word, for habits of eating, drinking and dressing have a direct bearing upon spiritual advancement.Ms 109, 1909, par. 4 True Bible religion through the Holy Spirit produces meekness and self-control, leading people to govern themselves rather than control one another or exalt themselves over the flock.STB 513.2 Christians should learn meekness from Christ and treat those who disagree with them fairly and nobly, contrasting the Spirit's kindness and generosity with sarcasm, humiliating speech and selfishness.Lt 74, 1900, par. 12–15 The genuine religion Christ came to teach makes men and women lights in the world by the power He offers to form a true, noble character, where the converted rejoice in a mighty Saviour, partake of the divine nature, have real repentance whose fruit appears in Christlike words and deeds, and every day and every hour reveal faith in the Sin-bearer with love, hope, longsuffering, patience and kindness, lifting the cross in self-denial to follow Jesus as His representative.Lt 78, 1910, par. 6–8+4