9:23Luke 9:23

Denying self, lifting the cross every day and coming after him are the plain terms on which discipleship rests.ST Jun 10, 1908+2 The call leaves no one out and allows no evading, and it must be met daily and hourly in steady practice rather than by a single act or occasional feeling.Ms 72, 1911, par. 1–5+4 Willingly meeting these terms is the condition of salvation and of entering heaven, for no one will sit with him on his throne without sacrifice, crucifying self and giving up every idol.Lt 17, 1899, par. 4–7+4 Denying self means surrendering the will and giving up choosing one's own way, pleasure and property, while taking up the cross means crucifying self day by day, bringing mind, soul and body under his rule and obeying when his requirements conflict with appetite, habit and opinion.2T 310.2+4 Following is walking the path he first walked in meekness, humility and unselfish service, sharing his suffering and reproach now in order to share his glory, honor, immortality and eternal life, and showing it in daily life by serving others, giving freely, living simply and laboring for souls.CH 140.1+4

The words were spoken in seclusion alone with the disciples while praying, teaching more definitely the nature of the kingdom.ST Feb 25, 1889 They reproved human desire for a temporal reign and earthly ambition that confused hearers about the real mission of Christ.ST Feb 25, 1889 Instead of worldly honor shame awaited him, and instead of a throne the pitiless cross, and those who come after him must for his sake and to win salvation be willing to endure reproach and contumely.ST Feb 25, 1889

The verse belongs to the setting of the cross, and Christ's own willingness to endure the cross reveals both the cost of his mission and the joy set before him.DA 410.2 He for joy endured the cross, despised the shame, endured the contradiction of sinners, and was wounded and afflicted for sins as the slain lamb.EW 92.2–93.1 Following him therefore means keeping Jesus in mind as the meek Pattern and example, treading in his footsteps, dying to self, crucifying self daily, willingly suffering for his sake, and partaking of his sufferings here in order to partake of his glory and be crowned with glory, honor, immortality and eternal life.EW 92.2–93.1+1 A heart subdued by grace stops making self sensitive and stops creating trials from an unsubdued heart, and instead checks every passion, gives up self-confidence and self-sufficiency, is instant in prayer, and works in earnest beginning right.EW 92.2–93.1

Before taking human form he knew in advance the suffering and insults on the way to Calvary, yet he chose that way in order to save the lost and do God's will.DA 410.1 He did not fail nor become discouraged though opposed, even when all the host of Satan worked against him during his earthly life.Ms 89, 1909, par. 15 Willingness to deny self follows his example by making efforts that God's name may be magnified in the earth and by overcoming and putting away the habits and practices indulged by the world so they have no place in life.Ms 89, 1909, par. 15

The cross evoked Rome's cruel and humiliating execution, so the call points to accepting bitter humiliation, even death, for his sake.DA 416.3 He who was rich in heaven became poor, leaving heaven for reproach, insult and a shameful death, having accepted this path for his followers, and his followers are to walk the path he trod in denying self, bearing the cross daily and following his example of self-surrender.DA 416.3 Taking up the cross can also come by choice after compulsion, as when Simon's forced bearing of the cross led him afterward to take up the cross of Christ by choice and to bear it cheerfully thereafter.DA 742.2–3

The speaker is the self-denying Redeemer whose incarnation and life show self-sacrifice, and his followers are to have his mind, for without self-denial and cross-bearing they cannot be his disciples.Lt 21, 1894, par. 11–13 He comes in no other character than the meek and lowly crucified One, not with riches and pleasure or with splendor and the character and authority of the world's great men, and not as one who invites self-indulgence.LS 250.1+1 Their wealth, position and intellectual gifts belong to God because they were bought at the price of his sacrifice and must be used to glorify him.Lt 21, 1894, par. 11–13 Those who would be with him in heaven must be like him on earth and leave behind what belongs to the world, and partaking of his self-denial and suffering here is necessary to take the crown hereafter, though many would gladly follow and crown him Lord if discipleship allowed self-indulgence and pleasing of self and enjoyment of the world.LS 250.1+2

He walked the path first, endured every test and trial people face without being overcome, and remained completely dependent on God.Ms 176, 1899, par. 5+1 His example shows that followers can endure their trials through dependence on God and can overcome as he overcame.Ms 176, 1899, par. 5+1 He, the Majesty of heaven, came to show how to bear the world's rebuffs without fainting and without retaliation, so that every trial borne wisely becomes a blessing that lifts up rather than casts down.Lt 24, 1874, par. 7 Continually seeking to shirk hard and stony places for an easier path and a pleasanter way brings disappointment and adversity, while bracing the soul for trial and for duty and marching forward bravely in God keeps one on the path of self-denial and self-sacrifice that leads to honor and heavenly riches in the future, immortal life.Lt 24, 1874, par. 7

When spoken the call moved hearers deeply even when they did not fully understand it, and many though not clearly comprehending were moved by deep conviction.6T 248.2–3+1 The disciples also did not always understand the lessons he wished to convey, and when the multitude had gone away they would ask him to explain his words, and he was ever ready to lead them to a perfect understanding of his word and will, for from them in clear distinct lines truth was to go forth to the world.Ms 169, 1899, par. 19–20 At times he reproached them for slowness of comprehension, for he had placed in their possession truths whose value they little suspected, while their previous religious education and the erroneous interpretations they had heard Jewish teachers place on the Scriptures kept their minds clouded.Ms 169, 1899, par. 19–20 He promised to send his Spirit, who would teach all things and bring all things to remembrance whatsoever he had said, recalling his words to their minds as forgotten truths.Ms 169, 1899, par. 19–20 From birth to death his life calls people to surrender themselves and share in suffering with him, and each person's response reveals purposes and shows whether he belongs to his side or to Satan's kingdom, thus passing judgment on himself.DA 57.4

Following Christ means denying self, taking up the cross daily and following Him, and these are the positively stated terms of discipleship from His own lips.ST Jun 10, 1908+4 It is unreserved surrender, giving self wholly to His service and letting self-love and self-interest perish in order to serve God and others.ST Jun 10, 1908+2 It includes forsaking all with the mind that was in Him, surrendering body, soul and spirit because they belong to the Lord who paid for redemption, living in simplicity and holy living with consecration that brings the Saviour near and the Spirit's strength for holiness.CH 140.1+1 The life freely given in such service is the life preserved, and those who so follow in self-denial and self-sacrifice receive everlasting life and share in His kingdom.ST Jun 10, 1908

The call is to each person with personal commitment, to everyone with no exception and no evading of the cross-bearing part.Ms 72, 1911, par. 1–5+1 It applies to everyone who desires to be a Christian, and it belongs to everyone because God has given to each a measure of power and entrusted light to shine, no one lives to himself, and each composes a part of the great web of humanity.Lt 144, 1901, par. 23+2 It means seeking to know what the Lord requires in this life rather than speculating about the future state, studying the character of Christ revealed in the Word and practicing His virtues to perfect character after the divine likeness.Ms 31, 1908, par. 3 Bringing His self-denial and sacrifice into the daily life develops faith that works by love and purifies the soul, and this is the path to entering heaven, received day by day as spiritual food by trusting the soul to a living Christ and receiving Him by faith for divine power to walk with good cheer in perilous places because He has overcome the world.Ms 31, 1908, par. 3+1 Practicing this in the Redeemer's power never degrades nor makes one coarse or uncourteous, but makes truth warm with comfort and love and fits one to impart what is received, while shunning the cross shuns the promised reward to the faithful, and each day's response is registered in heaven in God's book.4MR 172.4–173.1

The call is daily and hourly and continuing, a daily crucifixion of self and condition of receiving salvation in God's appointed way.TEPD 26.2+2 It is not a single act or occasional feeling prompted by strong emotion, nor reserved for special occasions, but a steady practice marking a living Christian's daily experience and ongoing advance in the divine life.Ms 20, 1868, par. 1+1 It includes enduring hardship and giving self with gifts and abilities to advance God's work and share light, growing from love for Jesus and gratitude for truth, following Him as Leader without murmuring, and genuine faith makes one an hourly follower with sanctifying influence rather than mere agreement with true doctrines.Ms 82, 1896, par. 3+2 It requires constant warfare to maintain a peculiar holy character separate from the world, drawing near to God and contemplating Christ's life and work and practicing the truth preached.TEPD 26.2

The lesson is still slow to be learned and difficult, for the customs, habits and practices of the world gain such power over professed people that they disregard His warnings and repeated warnings, and Christ gives this call to His servants in every age to heed God's voice rather than be governed by the world.Ms 169, 1899, par. 22+3 The path is unpopular because it is not easy, requiring self-denial and humiliation without expecting earthly reward, so many whose faith cannot endure these conditions turn back rather than meet its humiliation.2SP 306.1 Few choose this way, while mere profession costs little, and followers are to know Him and Him crucified with lives showing the marks of belonging to Him.ST May 25, 1882

The cross is the token of discipleship and a cross of salvation, not a cause for discouragement, marking a clear distinction between Christ's people and the world.Ms 14, 1900, par. 20–22+1 Christ's likeness in self-denial and daily cross-bearing is the evidence of being His disciple, to be visible to world and heaven, shown through willing obedience and fruit, and a view of discipleship leaving out the cross does not reflect what He requires.Ms 14, 1900, par. 20–22+2 Conformity to worldly practices and pride obscures that distinction until the evidence is no longer discernible, so followers must make sacrifices and have courage and independence to rise above the religious standard of the Christian world rather than evade the cross.TBC1882 61.1+2

The cross of self-denial must be made plain in teaching, not hidden or softened.ST Dec 25, 1893 Following also means feeding on Him by thinking of Him and obeying His words, which builds up spiritual life and leads to growth in grace and knowledge of the truth.ST Dec 25, 1893 Obedience to this plain command is what makes one His disciple and is the simplicity of the gospel and the self-denying Christian life.Ms 10, 1899, par. 5 Conduct and sentiments must be conformed to this divine standard, with constant prayer for heavenly illumination and sanctified judgment not to err from God's precepts, and every church must bring forth fruit fitting repentance, while those who do not do His works hate self-denial and piety and as agents of deception influence souls who would otherwise obey, and the souls of those led away will be required of those who misled them.Ms 10, 1899, par. 5

These duties of self-denial and daily cross-bearing are especially important now, with little remaining time.STB 188.1 Christians waiting for their Lord are called not only to give generously but also to sacrifice, follow closely in Jesus' footsteps in His self-sacrificing life, and inherit glory with Him.1T 170.2–3 This commitment must belong to daily life and not be expected to appear suddenly when final trials come, and it is to be formed in children through both teaching and example so they too can be prepared to serve and fight the Lord's battles.5T 135.3

Luke 9:23 lays down the conditions of salvation for everyone who would come to Christ and believe in him as a personal Saviour, requiring a settled decision made now between God and the soul to follow at any sacrifice and any cost, with close honest examination of heart and grounds of hope rather than leaning on the judgment and experience of others, gaining the witness of the Spirit and evidence of acceptance and possessing the essential qualifications of a Christian rather than cherishing hope on slight grounds.Lt 17, 1899, par. 4–7+2 Coming after him means denying self and taking up the cross daily and following him willingly and manfully, choosing him with heart, soul and voice as King, counsellor and precious self-denying, self-sacrificing Saviour, accepted out of love with heart and judgment approving his requirements, and the promise of being joint-heirs with Christ and everlasting life when he takes possession of his kingdom rests on this willingness to follow him in self-denial and sacrifice on earth.Lt 17, 1899, par. 4–7+1 Anyone preparing for the mansions and homes he has gone to prepare must do this and purify the soul by obeying the truth as it is in Jesus, with a spirit that cannot mingle with the spirit and influence of the world, because profession only without true following will disappoint of eternal life at meeting Jesus.STB 801.1+2 Fidelity to him brings self-denial and self-sacrifice, inconvenience and poverty, shame and reproach, and all who would be partakers of his glory must be partakers with him of his suffering, for he bore all this for fallen man.Lt 17, 1899, par. 4–7

No one will enter heaven or sit with Christ on his throne without making a sacrifice, cherishing a spirit of sacrifice and self-denial, surrendering body, soul and spirit to his service as belonging to the Lord who paid for redemption, giving the body as a sacrifice on God's altar, crucifying self and sacrificing every idol.Ms 88, 1903, par. 1–2+2 This means lifting the cross and following in self-denial and self-sacrifice instead of doing as one pleases by one's own ideas and standards and instead of spending time and resources on self-pleasing, selfish indulgence and idle profession, but lifting burdens and using time, strength and holidays to help and bless others toward a better, higher and purer life.Lt 12, 1894, par. 4–5+2 Only those who do this will be accepted as followers of his Son and will enter through the gates into the city of God and kingdom of glory, by accepting by faith the merits of Jesus, taking the Redeemer's life as example, partaking of his nature, through his grace overcoming, seeking the Lord daily so natural temperaments and desires are brought under the converting power of the Holy Spirit into harmony with Christ's life, and walking humbly with God.Ms 85, 1909, par. 4–6+1 Those who enter God's city share his self-denial and self-sacrifice, and he gives the crown of life to those who live this way, for eternal life is worth suffering for, worth crucifying self for and worth sacrificing every idol for.SG4 171.2+1 Indulging hasty fitful temper, gratifying appetite and attending to self-interest regardless of his cause violate this, and a day spent in selfish pleasure seeking and cheap foolish talk is a day lost to the soul and lost in his service, with no good accomplished and no growth in grace, clothed with selfishness and passing into eternity to confront the idler in the judgment.SG4 171.2+1 Those who continue in trifling indifferent churchgoing, going and coming like a door upon its hinges and taking no part or interest in the work, have their future destiny settled and will never enter the kingdom, and their indifference is an offense to God.Lt 12, 1892, par. 26–28

Self-denial and the cross are the condition and evidence of discipleship, and unless they are brought into experience a person cannot know God and cannot worship him in spirit and in truth and in the beauty of holiness.Ms 2, 1888, par. 11–12 Following Jesus means bearing the cross after him in consecrated self-denying steps, for this is the way to salvation, the cross of Calvary lifts those who bear it, and self crucified to the world is the only thing a person can present to God.Lt 124, 1901, par. 2–4 God has made self-abasement and cross-bearing provisions through which the repentant sinner finds hope, comfort and peace, ordained conditions of salvation that should hush every murmuring voice because Jesus submitted to humiliation and sacrifice that man will never be called to endure.Ms 107, 1894, par. 4+1 Kept in this way the call leads to sweetest joy through sincere repentance toward God for transgressing his law and faith in Jesus as the sinner's Redeemer and Advocate, and his humiliation and sacrifice show believers have no cause to murmur at the sacrifices they are called to make.Ms 107, 1894, par. 4+1 Engaging in worldly ambition and speculation, such as buying and selling real estate and investing in and selling mining shares even by ministers carrying credentials, violates that condition, eats out love for the truth, blunts discernment between sacred and common, and brings the mind under deceptive power.Ms 2, 1888, par. 11–12

Profession of faith has no value without practical obedience to the Word and a daily life shaped by his instruction, for claiming to follow is not enough and love is shown not by pretense but by practice in doing his words and living in obedience, purity and holiness.Ms 7, 1898, par. 26–27+3 Profession without this lived commitment gives no assurance of salvation, and a religious profession joined to pride, selfishness and self-indulgence does not make a person better but gives a false sense of security while that person follows the broad road.Ms 92a, 1898, par. 33–35+1 Attending church, hearing sermons, feelings, tears, general belief and names on church books without practical godliness do not make a Christian, and taking God's promises for granted will wither under trial.16MR 274.2+1 Faithful discipleship enables people to do the work God calls them to do.Lt 30, 1900, par. 7

Genuine Christianity requires daily self-denial and cross-bearing rather than hypocritical profession that bears no fruit to his glory while living for the world and its pleasures, requiring cleansing of the inner temple from selfishness, pride, envy and love of the world so Christ can dwell within.ST Aug 22, 1878+1 Receiving Bible truth leads to continual self-denial expressed in daily actions shaped by Christlike service, not merely in bearing the name of a disciple, for self-indulgence can never belong to Christlike experience and to accept his cause means to accept his cross.RH Feb 25, 1909+1 Truly converted men and women reveal the cross of Calvary in daily actions, proved not by name alone but by individual responsibility to work and believe and pray, by holding stewardship as sacred, by keeping self-control, by perseveringly studying the Word and by yielding up life to his service.RH Feb 25, 1909+1 True followers refuse the world's influence and frivolous pleasures and live sober, humble and holy lives, and seeking worldly amusement instead of making sacrifices separates people from God, while conforming to worldly associates in conduct and dress is inconsistent with having named him and trials reveal whether faith and profession are genuine.RH Aug 27, 1861+1 This daily course produces a life of purity and holiness distinct from the life of the world, with character washed white in blood, and leaves a bright heavenward track that draws others away from vanities to holier joys.ST Aug 22, 1878

Daily discipleship must be tested before baptism by taking a stand on the Lord's side, coming out of the world to be separate and touching not the unclean thing, rejecting worldly customs and fashions and sentiments and the selfishness and love of pleasure and love of dress that deny Christ, living humble and meek and lowly with brokenheartedness over grieving the Saviour, fighting his battles, doing good to others and advancing the cause of truth, and those who live this way will be most highly honored.5MR 329.1–330.2 Everyone who accepts the crucified and risen Saviour by faith must take up a cross, placing him and his service first even when obedience to truth brings conflict with family or requires giving up the world's approval, and those who surrender convictions to please relatives show themselves unworthy of him.ST Nov 26, 1894 Those buried with him in baptism and raised as Jesus was raised are called to live a new life unto God by crucifying self and imitating his self-denying life, keeping themselves unspotted from the world, a call resting even on children newly baptized.Ms 2, 1859, par. 1

Consecration by denying self, lifting the cross and following the Lord in full consecration pressing close to his side is the only condition on which the Holy Spirit can be received, and asking in faith for the Spirit gives fitness for God's work even where human hands have never ordained.RH Aug 12, 1909+1 Only those who live this way can receive the Spirit they seek in prayer to feed hungry souls, and this self-denying following is urgent because only a little time remains to prepare for eternity.RH Aug 12, 1909+1 It vitalizes the whole body of believers to reach and bless suffering and ignorant humanity rather than treasuring light among themselves.RH Aug 12, 1909

Following requires daily cross-bearing in obedience to God's law and wholehearted obedience to all his commandments, which means life service given because the Saviour came as Sin-bearer to take away sin and as Advocate and propitiation not for believers only but for the whole world, so that knowing him is proved by keeping his commandments.Lt 48, 1898, par. 3+1 Coming after him means refusing the world's policy, ungodly example and human thought and speech as guides, holding to strict rectitude through the constant counsel of It is written and the great moral principles of Jehovah's law brought into every business transaction, deciding every question by what God has said and the standard he has set up, refusing to barter eternal life for treasure that perishes in the using, and finding in such obedience righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost on the narrow path cast up for the ransomed and opened by the sacrifice of God's only begotten Son.Lt 48, 1897, par. 27–30 Feelings and emotions do not make someone a child of God but doing God's will does, refusing to gratify personal inclination and choosing to obey, which leads to a useful life and makes a person an example of good works who supports discipline and order rather than undermining them.MYP 154.2 This discipleship includes continuing struggle to overcome besetting sins and objectionable traits relying on his strength, representing him as kind, thoughtful, self-denying and self-sacrificing with words and acts in harmony with profession, giving the world an example of preparation required for eternal life.CT 449.1+1 The desire to evade that cross-bearing causes men everywhere to work against the divine precepts, with even churches taking sides with the great apostate in claiming God's law has been changed or abolished.6T 10.2 God cooperates with those who live this way in fear and love, and the requirement calls for urgent preparation with no moment to lose, examining whole conduct, fearing to offend him, feeling dependence on Christ, being kept every moment by his power in submission, contentment and gratitude, because obedience brings salvation and disobedience brings ruin.7MR 264.4–266.1 The cross is obeying the truth when preachers ridicule truth and hearers accept it without testing by Scripture.6T 10.2

All will face a day of reckoning over what they did with goods lent them and must walk humbly with greater self-denial, and following requires denying self and taking up the cross daily by giving self wholly to his service, letting self-love and self-interest perish to serve God and others.ST Jun 10, 1908+1 This includes confessing him by dealing truly with God in money matters and account books, giving God his own rather than withholding it and refusing to keep up appearance before the world at cost of obedience, after the example of Christ who became poor so through his poverty believers might be made rich.12MR 229.1 Those who feel giving up worldly appearance to be a cross must take that course, which brings honor rather than discredit, and neglect to confess him in this financial faithfulness cuts off the privilege of having the name registered in the Lamb's book of life.12MR 229.1 Coming after him requires watchfulness and prayer, self-denial and sacrifice, so ways are pleasing to God and names are registered in the book of life, rather than merely putting on form of godliness and having a name on a church book with very little self-denial and sacrifice.SG4 303.1 The life freely given in service is the life preserved, and those who follow in self-denial and self-sacrifice will receive everlasting life and share in his kingdom.ST Jun 10, 1908 Trying to save life by saving a good name in the world, by dressing, talking and acting like the world and uniting with the mass of professed Christians to have influence and approval, and serving the world, being ashamed of the cross or studying own convenience rather than God's will, loses life beyond redemption, brings pronouncement of unworthiness of his protection and love, disowning and shaming before the Father and holy angels, and blotting of the name from the book of life.Ms 7, 1875, par. 1–4 Those who lose life for his sake by leaving all, enduring reproach, choosing Christ before world and every earthly friend and esteeming the cross greater riches than any worldly treasure, save life, are acknowledged as his jewels, are counted worthy of everlasting life, have every error and past sin blotted out and covered, and are marked on the forehead to be passed over by the destroying angel.Ms 7, 1875, par. 1–4 For children this means a warfare before them and a daily cross in coming out from the world and being separate and imitating his life, even when involving reproach, watchfulness, prayer and sacrifice, and professed Christians are an example for youth only as far as they follow him, with right actions the unmistakable fruits of true godliness.SG4 303.1+1

Coming after him by denying self daily rebukes the sentiment once in grace always in grace, for a human being remains in constant danger and therefore must watch unto prayer and watch words, lest methods of human devising govern the mind in decisions.Lt 153, 1910, par. 5–6 One holding that sentiment needs to be reconverted from it in order to serve acceptably, and only those who live this daily self-denial can loyally carry responsibility and be co-laborers with him who gave his life a sacrifice to save the fallen race in the work of saving souls.Lt 153, 1910, par. 5–6 Choosing him means yielding the will to God and obeying without delay, while continued refusal hardens the heart and obstructs spiritual progress.Lt 20, 1902, par. 7–9

Without dying to self daily a person stays restless and dissatisfied, for denying self and taking up the cross daily requires being renewed in the spirit of the mind by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, with truth received in the heart and not in conscience only, producing a transformed character.Ms 130, 1897, par. 6–7+1 Coming to him, taking his yoke and learning his meekness and lowliness gives rest to the soul, and without him nothing can be done correctly.Ms 130, 1897, par. 6–7 Any system of religion or profession without works and without transformation of character is of no advantage, and religious profession without a changed character amounts to faith without works.Ms 130, 1897, par. 6–7+1 Belief in Jesus, his crucifixion and resurrection without good works and a changed life is not genuine discipleship, for Christian profession can conceal an unsanctified nature and unsubdued passions.EW 191.1 This self-denial is part of genuine religion in which the converted person follows in a life of Christlike words and deeds and represents the Saviour, and it does not mean neglecting the soul's interests but enables living faithfully and sharing light with others.Ms 9, 1903, par. 23+1 Those who have joined in bringing his cause into disrepute and dishonoring his name must die to self if they expect pardon, putting away selfish practices, for appeals unheeded for years, mere changing of men in offices without conversion, not walking in light and doing his will and way putting out spiritual eyesight, and perversity in continuing as before show lack of conversion.Lt 7, 1897, par. 3

Disobeying the plain command that makes one his disciple — deny self, bear the cross daily and follow — is the opposite of the self-denying life and simplicity of the gospel, and those who do not do his works hate self-denial and piety.Ms 10, 1899, par. 5 As agents of Satan they influence and deceive souls who would otherwise obey, leading them away from obedience, and the souls of those led away will be required of those who misled them.Ms 10, 1899, par. 5 Conduct and sentiments must be conformed to this divine standard, with constant prayer for heavenly illumination and sanctified judgment not to err from God's precepts, and every church must bring forth fruit fitting repentance.Ms 10, 1899, par. 5

His cross bridges the separation between God and humanity caused by sin, and he calls people to follow him across that gulf.Ms 21, 1895, par. 15 The time of probation gives opportunity to prove loyalty to God by letting go of sins and placing them on him the Sin-bearer, and those who refuse and bear responsibility for their sins themselves will be lost.Ms 21, 1895, par. 15

This self-denial makes it possible to love God with all might, mind and strength and to love neighbor as self, without which these commands cannot be fulfilled.ST Apr 3, 1893 Following requires denying and sacrificing self, churches are to be educated in this in every possible way, and the verse means forsaking idols and cherishing supreme love for God and then loving neighbor as self.Lt 42, 1898, par. 22–24

Refusing his service because the cross is too heavy or self-denial too great grieves the Holy Spirit, for following requires denying self and accepting the cross of self-denial.18MR 47.3–48.2 The backslider who shows single-hearted devotion must show it as example by carefully watching habits and ways so works do not contradict faith and become a hindrance, requiring constant self-watchfulness and appreciating given light and grace instead of becoming self-indulgent, pleasing perverted appetite and gratifying passion.Lt 19, 1892, par. 13 Moral force often resisted finally loses power to control, self-respect is lost, confidence in God is shaken, and the backslider hesitates to claim the precious promises of the gospel because every promise is fulfilled upon conditions that have not been met, so the Spirit is grieved and the rebellious one is left in darkness chosen.Lt 19, 1892, par. 13

Denying self means dying to self daily in order to follow Christ, being renewed in the spirit of the mind by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, with truth received in the heart and not in conscience only producing a transformed character.Ms 130, 1897, par. 6–7 This daily death by self-crucifixion puts souls on vantage ground to walk in his footprints, depends on daily converting power with mind enlightened about purity and sanctification and heart responding to the strivings of the Spirit bringing new life, must be learned before entering the city, and determines the final award between departure as workers of iniquity and welcome into joy.Ms 69, 1909, par. 8–9 Beholding him brings mind, heart and character into conformity to God's will to follow his example, requiring overcoming faults and bringing appetites and passions under God's will, keeping him constantly before the mind and by prayer and faith receiving needed blessings and drawing nearer the standard.Lt 195, 1901, par. 6 It means no longer halting between two opinions but deciding fully to serve the Lord if he be God, letting him into the heart to heal the poor sick mind and body, while coming to him and taking his yoke and learning his meekness and lowliness gives rest, for without him nothing is done correctly and religion or profession without works and transformation is of no advantage.Ms 130, 1897, par. 6–7+1

Denying self means giving up choosing one's own way, will, pleasure and impulses to follow the path he traveled as the only safe path, leaving no reservation of self or property because time, service, affection and property all belong to God, overcoming selfishness which lies at the foundation of all sin.ST Apr 11, 1900 When self is renounced obedience becomes easy, and following requires giving up self-will and evil habits and choosing God's way, accepting restraint and effort to gain strength and doing what pleases him, copying his example rather than dishonoring him, with the help of the Spirit sought in humility and weakness.Ms 174, 1897, par. 10+1 Crucifying self means giving up self-rule and consecrating life wholly to him in severe struggle in which God helps those seeking his will.Lt 133, 1901, par. 15 It means ceasing to live to please self and consult own wishes, pleasure, tasks and desires, ceasing to concentrate thoughts and care and anxiety upon self even upon happiness in loving one another, becoming caretaking, useful and self-forgetful, bearing a share of life burdens, taking up responsibilities and care instead of living without care, engaging in useful employment and labor to lose sight of self, rising above ailments and forgetting them instead of humoring and petting them, for sinking into idleness makes one less inclined to labor and does not answer his purpose.Lt 32, 1875, par. 15–16

The will must be surrendered and self crucified, giving up an independent course to become a true follower.2T 310.2 Following requires daily self-denial and accepting sacrifices obedience may bring, giving up worldly advantages, self-reliance, personal plans and ambitions aimed at self-glorification to follow wherever he leads, with mind and understanding yielded to him for cleansing and renewal through receiving his teachings.Lt 35, 1903, par. 8–10 It means putting aside one's own will for God's and crucifying self day by day, exercised with sanctified ability and joined with faith leading to actual results as the Lord undertakes and accomplishes the work entrusted to him.14MR 32.1+1 This dying to self means giving up self-confidence and refusing to rely on human strength so as to become willing to learn from him and obey his words.Lt 45, 1894, par. 5–6 The will must die and domineering be subdued, for without yielding there is failure of eternal life, making personal will submissive to God's will and studying his glory instead of gratifying desire and set will at all events, putting wants of his cause first so personal wishes do not call workers from the field when hearts are moving to decision, lest minds remain unconvinced to decide against truth with accountability for those souls resting on those who gratified self.Lt 6a, 1860, par. 13–15

Self must lose its rule over the soul and be yielded to the Holy Spirit, and beholding his self-denial reveals the vileness of pride, independence and desire for supremacy, so the follower gives up ambition for the highest place and waits for the Saviour to lead and guide.ST Mar 24, 1909 Self must cease ruling life so he can possess and shape the soul, with humility necessary for him to be revealed in those serving in responsible positions, doing the work assigned in harmony with his instructions.Ms 65, 1906, par. 37+1 Self must be crucified before resting on God, for efforts without this surrender are valueless.Lt 107, 1903, par. 15–19 Dying to self means self does not rule but gives way to his meek spirit, taking a humble place among others and changing conduct rather than asserting authority or self-importance.Ms 10, 1862, par. 11–15

Denying self daily and taking up the cross means following in unselfishness, humility and meekness, counting human wisdom as nothing, refusing contentions, criticism and self-exaltation, opening the heart for grace and power to flow in, loving brethren in true Bible significance and treating each brother's God-given work as fully loved and sustained by God as one's own, and taking God at his word in unwavering faith when duty is made plain; then self is crucified, the eye of faith is anointed to behold the light of knowledge of glory in his face, the temple is beautified, the heart melted and purged from selfishness with new heart and thoughts, and unity, love and working of the Spirit follow.Lt 86, 1898, par. 9–15 This is proved by loving fellow believers and continually seeking unity and harmony, cultivating humility and childlike submission rather than striving for highest place, for lack of inner humility leads to dissension and strife.Ms 165, 1898, par. 5–6 Self-denial shows affection and gratitude for his love and calls for humility before God rather than making human honor and celebration the focus.ST Jan 4, 1883 Selfishness must be uprooted because it opposes his example, so followers deny self and show mercy, tender love, pity and compassion.ST Sep 19, 1895 Self must be crucified so that he rather than self is revealed and works among believers, refusing to exalt self over others and esteeming others above self, and pride, envy and hatred cannot be carried on that path.Lt 48, 1886, par. 16+1

Denying self and taking the cross means banishing self-indulgence and dedicating body and soul to God, with hereditary tendencies and wrong habits disciplined and repeatedly crucified in earnest work for the Master.Lt 94, 1896, par. 12–14 It includes resisting appetites and passions that corrupt the soul and using every gift to honor him.6T 65.1 Repenting transgression of law, then daily denying self means overcoming faults and bringing appetites and passions under God's will, seeing sin as exceeding sinful, striving earnestly to overcome, keeping him constantly before the mind, and through praying, believing and receiving needed blessings coming into personal touch with him and nearer the standard, becoming strong in his sustaining power as sympathetic compassionate Redeemer to resist evil, overcome corruption through lust, partake of divine nature and reveal grace, with new virtues revealed, loving him with whole heart as wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption.9T 151.2–3 Firm denial of appetite and passion is the only hope of regaining Eden lost through indulgence, meaning abstemiousness in diet and control of all passions, bringing every propensity under higher powers so intellect is preserved, mental and moral vigor given, and right and wrong, sacred and common, discerned, seeing his sacrifice in leaving heaven to show by life how to resist temptation and in response cheerfully denying self to share his sufferings.RH Jun 22, 1916 In the gospel race daily restraint includes resisting unlawful appetite and fleshly desires, practiced continually to prepare to gain victory and crown of life, living not to please ourselves and resisting selfish appetite and passion by standing on God's word as his example shows.Ms 74, 1903, par. 11+1

Restraint is needed to resist appetite's controlling power and be freed from its hold.CTBH 195.4–196.3 Self-denial is a condition both for entering his service and continuing in it, including refusing habits harming bodily health so physical and mental strength can be used in his work.ST Oct 1, 1885 Taking up the cross means accepting duties going against natural appetites and passions, requiring moral courage to deny appetite, including denying appetite for meat.HL 34.1+2 Following requires denying self by bringing every appetite into harmony with God and refusing choices harming mind or body as his dwelling place, as part of distinct discipleship work.Ms 163, 1898, par. 23–24 Self-denial includes control of appetite and obedience to health laws, for intemperance, ignorance of nature's laws and self-indulgence cause sickness, wretchedness, deformity and disease and rob God of glory; therefore it means learning how to keep well rather than only how to cure disease, warning against self-indulgence, enlightening the ignorant, teaching healthful living and food preparation, and using health reform to rescue from physical, mental and moral degeneracy to receive full truth.RH Jun 6, 1912 It includes keeping the body under control of reason and sharing his self-denial and self-sacrifice, overcoming and walking in meekness and lowliness, obeying laws of life and health with right principles taught especially to the young, refusing practices harming health and soul since obedience brings blessing and disobedience danger and unhappiness, and caring for the body as part of discipline.Ms 153, 1904, par. 24–26+3

Lifting the cross is applied to controlling appetite and choosing simple wholesome food and giving up unnecessary expense so time, strength and money can be used for his work, taught by example as well as words.Ms 25, 1894, par. 14–16 Denying self includes restricting appetite, eating only wholesome food, being temperate even in wholesome food, and abstaining almost wholly from flesh of dead animals that causes nine-tenths of disease, a denial too severe for much of the world and professed Christians who eat and drink with no regard for health, whose self-indulgence through willing ignorance depraves the body, produces diseases of every kind, then leads to resort to drugs as easiest while continuing wicked disregard of laws of life and health.Lt 53, 1888, par. 7 Denying appetite and taking up the cross means a changed course in eating, refusing meat, butter and other unhygienic food even when craved rather than indulging appetite then tampering with resulting disease, which rids the system of impurities and guards against gatherings and throat, lung, bowel and hearing difficulties including deafness.Lt 47a, 1874, par. 2 For ministers it includes giving up tea and other harmful stimulants, setting example discouraging use among Sabbathkeepers and directing money spent to his work.Lt 33, 1861, par. 14 It means laying aside idols such as tobacco, tea and coffee and putting their cost into the treasury, required of all with interest in the work, for the very poorest the greatest struggle, not because the cause lacks means but so every heart is tested and character developed as principle to be carried out in life.SG4 211.2 Following requires denying self, bearing the cross each day and walking after him, applied to living humbly at his feet with self-control, abstaining from fermented drinks, tea, coffee and large amounts of meat, bringing self under control, using God-given abilities in his service and handling honestly entrusted means.Lt 15, 1889, par. 4–5

Failure to deny self, including through self-indulgence in eating, can keep his people from reaching the high spiritual standard and spirituality he sets before them.MYP 218.1–2+1 Doing his call to deny self and take up the cross allows the whole being to develop and brings healthy harmonious action into daily life.7T 49.3 It requires vital connection with God and refusing another leader laying a net for the soul, condemning sentimental intimacies and close unions indulging lowest appetites, weakening moral power, demoralizing influence, dishonoring all involved, binding on principles not heavenly-minded, proving ruin of soul if unchanged.Lt 45, 1898, par. 3–4 Some were so fearful of failing to deny self that they accepted erroneous harmful teachings, so self-denial must be guided by truth rather than errors leading to spiritual harm.21MR 374.3–375.1

The cross cuts against natural inclination, uproots pride, and empties and cleanses the soul of selfishness and self-love, and it lies directly in the path of those who follow, who must remain faithful and unashamed and joined to him.Lt 31, 1891, par. 43–44+1 It is to be taken up without self-sufficiency, for abilities are no ground for self-flattery, but in simple trust relying on the wisdom, grace and power he provides.20MR 239.5–240.1 For his sake wants are restrained and spending on trifles avoided so his work can advance and souls receive the bread of life.Lt 31, 1891, par. 43–44

Taking up the cross means crucifying self, giving him the homage of the heart and the service of the life, and allowing no earthly tie or interest to prevent wholehearted obedience.Ms 88, 1903, par. 5 It means choosing the cross over selfish gratification, renouncing the world and resisting the lust of the flesh and the pride of life, refusing selfish gratification even amid daily conflict.Ms 37, 1886, par. 45+1 The choice is between serving God and pursuing worldly gain, and obedience to God leads to recovery of what was lost through Adam and Eve's transgression.Ms 80, 1886, par. 29 Following in this way also means trusting him as the perfect Example, representing him to the world, living his life, and laboring with God to save people from the tempter.Ms 88, 1903, par. 5

Taking up the cross daily means crucifying self every day and every hour right now, not waiting for a special future time, for self is to die today while there is work to do and use to be made of every entrusted capability.3MR 414.2–415.1+2 This is emptying and thoroughly cleansing the vessel of impurity and being made holy to God this very moment, before the destiny of souls is decided when self-crucifixion will do no good.3MR 414.2–415.1 A part of character must be crucified each day, in keeping with his self-denying, self-sacrificing life, here meaning resisting wasteful spending and desires for things that can be done without, and each victory over selfish plans, habits and natural inclinations is part of discipleship.Lt 35, 1886, par. 4–5+2 Those who have died to self daily, when facing the earnest test, have the everlasting arms around them and angels making a wall of fire around them to deliver them.3MR 414.2–415.1

Bearing his cross means bringing mind, soul and body under his rule, bringing thoughts into harmony with his thoughts and the will into conformity with God's will, and enduring shame and degradation for his sake.Lt 25, 1882, par. 14–19+1 Physical, mental and spiritual life must be made subject to God's will, imitating his disposition and living not to please self, with inherited or acquired traits, selfish desires, pride and love of esteem resisted and overcome without compromise.Lt 25, 1882, par. 14–19 Bearing his yoke and carrying his burdens keeps a person safe in service to God, keeping abilities and plans in submission to God rather than pursuing self-directed temporal enterprises.Lt 129, 1895, par. 6–8

The cross includes his requirements when they conflict with self-indulgence, appetite, personal calculations, established practices, habits, opinions or desire to defend one's own position.Lt 73, 1896, par. 1–3 The Christian must follow his counsel rather than cling to habits or opinions, and live in communion with his mind and will.Lt 73, 1896, par. 1–3 Treating personal wishes as God's will avoids conflict with self, while one who grows weary of this continual struggle against selfish desires may yield to temptation instead of resisting it.AA 565.2 The cross involves accepting the cost of truth when it conflicts with selfishness, love of the world and natural inclinations of the heart, which is why many reject the light of truth, and it represents the self-denial and sacrifice required in obedience, so those who promise obedience but draw back when duty requires sacrifice do not truly surrender the will and their profession is false.3SP 12.1+1

Taking up the cross means a life of self-denial and obedience, guided by pure religion and controlled by principle, living in purity and righteousness.TBC1882 70.1+1 He guides each person into work suited to talents and to the place of greatest usefulness, providing grace sufficient for each day, and young disciples follow him along this path of duty.TBC1882 70.1+1 Remembering his sacrifice at Calvary makes pride and self-worship give way to humility and turns heart and character toward God, while those professing to follow but refusing this humble obedience fail to take up the cross as his disciples.ST Feb 15, 1883 Denial of self is expressed by taking up life's duties and burdens rather than choosing ease, sinful pleasure, pride or self-justification, and Christ may also be denied through harmful or untruthful speech, discourtesy and self-focused thoughts, so true confession requires his spirit to shape heart, character, words and conduct and profession alone is not enough.3T 331.3–332.1

The cross, though marked by shame, is the hope of life and exaltation, and those who joyfully endure suffering and reproach for him gain spiritual riches now and greater joy and immortal reward in the kingdom of glory.2RED 96.2 The cross of Calvary is the source of power, and bearing the cross he places on a person is the way to gain spiritual life, strength and excellence.Ms 107, 1901, par. 20–22 It builds strength rather than merely consuming it and helps remove heavier burdens as believers take up his light burdens, with conflicts and trials coming in the discharge of duty and each act of self-denial and sacrifice a step in returning to the fold.Lt 7, 1877, par. 6 Though it may seem heavy at first, it lifts and sustains the bearer, and carrying it in willing, unselfish service brings peace, joy and rest to the soul.Lt 43, 1903, par. 31+1 It is never to be shunned or laid aside under any condition, requiring constant warfare to maintain a peculiar holy character separate from the world by doing religious duties openly before unbelievers, especially relatives, even when heavy and galling, not acting as though his name had never been named, not sealing the lips about the change wrought by the Holy Spirit, not concealing signs of loyalty as his subjects, and not talking and acting like the enemy's subjects.Lt 9, 1861, par. 9

The cross appointed to each is borne by submitting fully to God and continuing to follow through grief and hardship, rather than surrendering to excessive or morbid grief, complaint or murmuring.Lt 9, 1881, par. 9–13 It is to be carried without complaint, and in bearing it the person is raised and finds the cross alive with mercy, compassion and pitying love.Lt 145, 1900, par. 12 This path, even when difficult or inconvenient, calls for the softening, subduing influence of his Spirit, making life fragrant, with a softened, submissive spirit rather than harshness or self-sufficiency.4T 557.3+1

Lifting the cross daily by his grace prevents backsliding, for disregarding this command leads people to put human beings in God's place and follow their example instead of his.Ms 196, 1899, par. 8–10 Especially for those in positions of responsibility, his grace is needed to bear this daily cross and overcome many things every day, with daily victory over the deceptive powers of Satan by holding fast to him and refusing to let Satan have his will.12MR 107.1–2+1 It means kindling the taper from the divine altar and shining as lights to the world, constantly working with God with a godlike, holy purpose ever in view in order to be a blessing wherever one is.12MR 107.1–2 Lifted in firm reliance on God, who keeps and strengthens to resist temptations to desperate, self-destructive acts, it saves the soul and brings physical and moral improvement and growth in grace and knowledge, requiring standing in God-given manhood, uplifting thoughts into a higher, purer channel, respecting marriage vows, and serving as his servant for uplifting humanity, and those who thus bear and overcome will possess all things and receive the eternal weight of glory.Lt 8, 1888, par. 17–18 Crucifixion of self is necessary at every step, trusting in self brings failure, the heart must be examined lest defects strengthen rather than be repressed and the prize be lost, mere claim to believe without his works is cheap superficial faith not made perfect by works, and true following requires entire surrender and making it the daily study how to glorify him, bringing clearer and more correct knowledge of truth as one follows on to know the Lord.Lt 22, 1874, par. 7–8

Taking up the cross can mean accepting a difficult duty such as praying publicly among his assembled people despite fear and distress.LSEGW 37.4 It can mean publicly stepping forward to seek prayer, which brought relief and began a search for pure religion and living experience of truth.SG2 14.2 It can mean accepting the cost of obeying conviction even when risking reproach or disappointing parents, as in keeping the Sabbath despite a college principal's demand to leave if he does so, for the cross is the choice to give up one's own way when it conflicts with truth, and clear evidence of truth does not remove the need for repentance and self-denial.17MR 325.2+1

Taking up the cross means accepting truth and walking by faith when it brings trial, loss, painful hardship and uncertainty under earthly pressures, leaving what would keep from obedience.16MR 77.2–3+1 Lifting it is observing the Sabbath and obeying God's commandments even at risk of losing employment and means to support the family, and leaving former churches to worship where Bible truth is preached, and hesitating ones face this cross.Lt 91, 1897, par. 6–12+1 It means humbling the soul before God in specific confession that clears the soul from the stain of personal wrong, including wrong done in connection with another, coming out of darkness into light under the Spirit's moving, and it is refused when one under conviction trembles yet speaks only in general terms and will not humble himself to confess fully.8MR 316.2 The cross is an obstacle no one else can remove; each must choose to accept it, and truth is to be practiced willingly from love rather than compulsion.14MR 333.2

Taking up the cross daily includes faithfully meeting error and wrong with pointed testimony, reproof and rebuke though the duty is disagreeable and painful.SG4 204.2–205.1 It must be continued even when preaching brethren withhold sympathy, side with the reproved, and leave the reprover grieved, wounded and discouraged.SG4 204.2–205.1 To lay down the cross is to withhold that pointed testimony and suppress the faithful warning, shutting the soul in darkness, depriving the church of the testimony God designed to live in it, giving Satan his object and leaving wrong unhealed.SG4 204.2–205.1 Those who teach truth must surrender entirely to God and not shun the cross even when persecution comes, not justifying unchristlike conduct toward brethren, with faithfulness including reproof as well as encouragement, speaking truth in love and enduring opposition without reviling or seeking to humiliate enemies.Ms 34, 1900, par. 42+1

The daily cross includes the heavy and painful discipline of keeping silent when silence is duty and when provocation comes, outgrowing childishness and revealing the patience, kindness and forbearance that make men worthy to be called sons and daughters of God, and such silence overcomes evil much more than a storm of angry words.RH Jul 20, 1905 Responding gently to harsh words instead of retaliating helps others bear it afterward.Lt 1, 1905, par. 5 His followers should reflect his patience by bearing with others' errors and treating the mistaken with kindness, tenderness and forbearance rather than impatience or a combative spirit.3T 110.3–4

The cross is a daily call to make no sacrifice too costly in order to end sin's rule and let the divine nature take possession of the life, which everyone receiving him as Saviour must do.Ms 88, 1898, par. 10–12+1 Forgiveness is not permission to continue in sin but a means of bringing sin to an end so the divine nature may possess the person, and no sacrifice is too costly when needed to share the treasures of truth with the world, with failure to do so betraying a sacred trust.ST Mar 1, 1899

The cross is a burden believers must learn to bear, and understanding its value enables them to cast themselves and their burdens on him and live holy lives.4T 285.1 Bearing it means patiently suffering for the gospel, even facing death, rather than using violence or shedding others' blood to defend the faith, but through faithful, prayerful endurance even when handed over to hostile authorities.GC88 209.3+1 Those willing to take it up to follow receive light from God and see spiritual truth.Ms 176, 1899, par. 25 Even those who trade with an eye single to God's glory, who let truth sanctify life and character in continuous daily growth, who refuse feverish haste to be rich and banish selfishness, ingratitude, cunning, false pretense and eagerness for gain without strict integrity, and who live in honesty and strict equity in harmony with truth and law so every act testifies to truth, will still have a cross to bear.13MR 232.1–2

True workers lift the cross that lies directly in their pathway, bearing one test after another while following on step by step, receiving light and truth as they advance, and pressing on to know the Lord whose goings forth are prepared as the morning.Ms 31, 1896, par. 8 This was done by those who had experience from the very rise of the third angel's message, and true workers cooperate with them and accept the truth as given to students of prophecy point by point through genuine living experience, tested, proved and tried until truth becomes reality.Ms 31, 1896, par. 8

Following means walking the path Christ walked and lifting up the Man of Calvary by word and by holy living, cutting off every needless indulgence in spending, clothing, furnishings and self-gratification to live simply and use means for God's work.CH 140.1+4 Such entire surrender with no reservation does God's expressed will from the heart and does the daily work that presents itself, and identification with Him through a life in harmony with His teaching shows genuine devotion and gives credentials as His worker.CH 140.1+2 Consecration of this kind brings the Saviour very near, and the working of the Spirit upon heart and life gives strength to live a life of holiness and self-surrender, bringing rest and opening the richest blessings in health and spiritual endowments that agonizing struggle in prayer and tears alone will not bring.CH 140.1+2

Daily discipleship is learned from Christ and shown to the world through the life, by studying His life, walking in His footsteps, revealing the Father's character, and practicing the truth preached rather than living to please self.Lt 238, 1907, par. 2–3+4 His life of unselfish toil and sacrifice is the model, and His humility and cross-bearing were for humanity's good to lift people to purity and holiness and give them peace, rest, joy and a share in His glory.ST May 3, 1910+1 This following is a daily and hourly commitment, strengthened by drawing near to God and contemplating Christ's life and work.TEPD 26.2

Following requires keeping in step with Christ rather than running ahead or lagging behind, safe in the Leader's footsteps under the yoke He gives to bear, walking and working where He leads.Lt 4, 1900, par. 3–4+2 Choosing one's own ideas and judgment instead of obeying God is the opposite of this self-denying discipleship, while readiness to go where He leads and work for Him prepares for His appearing and helps others prepare.Lt 54, 1902, par. 18+1 His footprints are the safe guide on the path of the self-denying Redeemer, yet this does not require everyone to copy another person's path, for each distinct temperament when sanctified by grace can serve God and help others, and believers should trust that others can be as sincere before God as they are.Ms 174, 1901, par. 6

Following requires faith and continuing in this path through both good and evil report, in adversity as well as in favorable circumstances.Ms 114, 1903, par. 35–36+3 Keeping His cross in view gives divine impulse to dedicate body, soul and spirit to God, and choosing life means choosing the cross and His path of suffering and self-denial without murmuring at its hardships.Ms 25a, 1891, par. 8–9+1 He trod every step of the strait and narrow road before His followers in continual self-denial, sacrifice and cross-bearing, so followers give self less time and attention, refuse to stay depressed and discouraged over trials and sacrifices or to mourn because the road is strait and narrow, but gladly follow wherever He leads.ST Mar 9, 1888 Walking in His footsteps subdues the proud heart by grace, ends contention, leads each in lowliness to esteem others better than self, and melts cold hard-heartedness into tender words and acts of love.ST Mar 9, 1888 Willingness to receive counsel gains perception of divine truth, while refusing to obey until every doubt is removed and every mystery explained does not lead to truth, since evidence will not settle a mind set on criticism.Lt 137b, 1898, par. 3

Following in His footsteps is a privilege expressing love, gratitude, loyalty and devotion through toil, hardship, sacrifice and service, giving the world evidence of genuine conversion and a true Christian life.Lt 69, 1899, par. 6–8+2 Those who so follow catch His spirit, love to contemplate His beauty, and by beholding Him are changed into His divine image and bear the fruit He bore.Lt 69, 1899, par. 6–8+1 Beginning at the lowest round of the ladder with heaven always in view and God's Word as a mine of wealth makes rich in heavenly treasure, and earnestness and self-denial in ministry make provision for eternal reward so that even after life closes the scattered seed is multiplied to His praise and glory.ST Apr 25, 1900 Beside the sacrifices of Christ the servant's sacrifices seem small, and following in His steps brings joy in faithful labor.MC 69.5

Following Him as the Pattern who humbled Himself from heaven to shameful death on the cross for guilty man forbids lifting up self, seeking supremacy, human praise, deference, pride of talent or intellect, or expecting a life without trial, shame and humiliation.STMW7 37.1–2+2 It means denying self and looking to Calvary with astonishment at His condescension, cultivating humility, mastering self, wrestling against self-conceit, selfishness, pride, independence, envy, jealousy, evil surmising and impurity, cleansing the soul temple from all defilement, opening the heart for Jesus to come in, esteeming others better than self, bearing one another's burdens, and learning His meekness and lowliness to partake of the divine nature and escape corruption through lust, with the life hid with Christ in God.Lt 11, 1887, par. 20–23 In the kingdom He sets up all servants are equal brethren and the only greatness recognized is humility and service, giving character that commends itself to God and develops wisdom, patience, forbearance, kindness and compassion, which gives the chiefest place.5MR 369.2–370.2 Making self prominent leads people to uplift self instead of Jesus and is not loyalty to the crucified Lord, while valuing each soul above personal ease or status guards against seeking authority over others in ways that harm the church and lose souls.STMW7 37.1–2+1 All haughtiness and self-exaltation must be put away or there will be no place in the kingdom.Lt 11, 1887, par. 20–23

Everyone offering himself as disciple must daily deny self, lift up the cross, and follow in the footsteps of Jesus wherever His example leads, for Jesus took the position of humility that man must take.Ms 2, 1900, par. 13+2 Coming into union with Him requires becoming meek and lowly of heart, putting away pride, selfishness, ambition for supremacy and desire for the praise of the world, and only in cherishing that meekness does the soul find rest and Christ's peace abide, since the soul cannot grow in grace while self-centered and proud.Lt 28, 1888, par. 28–33 Practicing His principles through humility and self-sacrifice means less of self and more of Christ, and putting His virtues into practical life makes people like Him, helps them avoid sin's distortion, supports conversion of sinners and leaves more means for missionary work.Ms 2, 1900, par. 13 These qualities are seen in His example and expressed through devotion, meekness, humility and forbearance.ST Jan 4, 1883

Following means imitating His self-denying life with moral courage to take a distinct, conscientious stand for Him even before unbelievers and against the fashions of the world, refusing worldly love, pride and whatever leads to idolatry and accepting hardship and rejection rather than seeking praise or honor.2T 491.1+3 It requires placing the feet in His footprints by being self-denying, pure and uncorrupted even when surrounded by bad examples, which is impossible while held by Satan's power and requires acting now to break that power and openly declare purpose to be a Christian and child of God.Lt 36, 1887, par. 4 Those who do this will be peculiar, marked as wholly God's, heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ to the immortal inheritance, and it will soon be known who is on the Lord's side and is not ashamed of Jesus.SG4 233.4 Those ashamed to take this stand do not love His example, and God will not receive, honor and acknowledge a people so mixed with the world that they differ from it only in name.1T 287.1+1 Each choice shapes character and influence, for selfish habits bind to a wrong course while efforts to overcome selfishness and help others guide others to the cross, and turning away can lead others away from the hope of heaven.MYP 212.1

Lifting the cross and following means meeting Christ's standard instead of the world's by standing in moral independence, coming out from the world and staying separate from its spirit, fashions, friendship and wisdom, yielding nothing in fidelity to God against pride, selfish amusement and spending to gratify inclination or love of display.RH Jun 25, 1861+2 It means being an example in spirit, deportment and dress, cultivating His tenderness in persuasion and earnestness in exhortation, and showing in life and character what His religion has done.TSSW 45.1–2 This includes modesty and simplicity in speech, conduct and dress, for ignoring these leads professed followers to adopt the world's fashions, customs and principles.CTBH 92.3 It is an onward, upward way requiring effort and leaving earthly things farther behind, firmly resisting the downward pull of worldly fashions and unconsecrated example rather than being carried along.1T 278.2–3 The cross is borne with God's approval in view rather than human praise or support, choosing obedience over neighbors' approval and accepting the cost of standing apart or alone, yet obedience does not leave the follower alone because Christ loves those who keep His commandments.Ms 105, 1894, par. 21 Human opinions and wisdom lead away from the cross, and His servants are not to treat this world as home or treasure or claim special favor from it, but to remain willing to be poor and despised until the conflict is over, with strength in being chosen and accepted by God, in an urgent opportunity that will not remain open indefinitely.RH Jun 25, 1861+1

Following means denying self by giving up personal interests and devoting all one has and is to God's work for others, refusing the convenient or self-serving course after the example of His self-denial and love.Ms 18, 1896, par. 18+1 It means accepting the work and service He assigns and living as His servant rather than seeking personal praise, honor or glory, bringing His love, devotion, zeal and perseverance into the work and carrying His burden.4T 602.2–4 It means obeying His call without demanding to know where it leads or what reward will follow, surrendering self and consecrating every power to leading souls to light through God's strength and grace.SPBC 129.1–3 It means being wholly consecrated in utter renunciation of self, ready for any work without shunning responsibility or seeking an easy time, lifting whatever burden He lays before, which itself lifts and increases spiritual power, by looking constantly to the Lamb of God, laying hold on Him as a tower of strength, cooperating in His work as the highest honor heaven can grant, and praying earnestly to know personal duty.Lt 19f, 1874, par. 3 By faith the follower accepts even disagreeable duty demanding self-denial, bears the cross daily, keeps moving toward the heavenly Canaan and contends for the Lord with steady, undiscouraged service when difficulties arise.MYP 208.1–2+1

Following requires dying to self and accepting the truth whatever it costs, leaving sinful ways and obeying God even when obedience costs personal convenience or advantage.ST Oct 25, 1910+2 This means beginning at once to crucify self, with the cross of Calvary as the great center of the plan of salvation and daily reliance on His saving grace enabling the surrender, shown in family life when parents bring themselves under God's will and Spirit and teach children by conduct what following means.Ms 66, 1905, par. 10–13 The call to take up the cross means accepting humility and suffering rather than expecting a triumphant Messiah who rules as a temporal prince, and the call to bear the cross is a call to depart from iniquity and resist temptation rather than yield, for even strong pressure does not compel transgression because the will must consent.Ms 31, 1889, par. 57–60+1

Following Him means humbling the heart and taking His easy yoke rather than manufacturing yokes for self or others, in the plainly marked way of discipleship.14MR 62.1–2+1 Denying self and daily taking up the cross means not struggling against natural claims but meeting and repulsing sin at every step in order to follow Him.14MR 62.1–2+1 Bearing His yoke means continuing in faithful obedience and watchfulness, making God first in everything and guarding against neglect, absorption in amusements and striving for mastery that draw away from prayer.Lt 58, 1893, par. 4–5

Following His self-denying path means following His example of standing with the poor to lift them from the scorn attached to poverty.MH 197.4 The cross-bearing life of following Him has a beauty unseen by those who lack trust in God.Ms 5, 1866, par. 4

Giving oneself to service through transforming grace makes a person ready to deny self, take up the cross, and make any sacrifice, no longer indifferent to perishing souls but lifted above self-serving, created anew with no place for self-serving, realizing every part of being belongs to the Redeemer from sin's slavery and every future moment was bought with blood.7T 9.2+1 This self-denial and self-sacrifice is for the good of others and must be shared by all who would inherit the blessings prepared, learned as diligent students in Christ's school through crucifixion of self and death of self with life hidden with God.5T 731.2+1 It is driven by supreme love to God and love for perishing souls for whom death on Calvary was suffered, the same love that brought Christ to the cross leading followers to seek and save the lost as laborers together with God, where pride and desire for display cannot live.Lt 28, 1892, par. 15–16 Self-idolatry, the rule of self at the root of sin, must be crucified in wholehearted consecration involving real effort and prayer rather than costless sacrifice, with the converted holding nothing back, placing all abilities and influence on Christ's side, working to advance salvation and reproduce His character, beginning with one's own children and family and patiently seeking those nearby.GW 114.3+2

Christ Himself enables this daily self-denial, giving resolve and strength to suffer and fight battles with perseverance, so even the weakest become more than conquerors through divine grace.RH Oct 30, 1900 Those who heed receive help from infinite power in transformation, with character formed step by step through patient continuous effort and cultivation of commended virtues.RH May 28, 1908 Though dying to self and lifting His cross is hard, it brings victory for which the believer gives thanks while following in obedience.Lt 59, 1896, par. 13–17

Every person without exception and without evading is called to come after Him by denying self and taking up the cross daily, seeking to know what the Lord requires in this life rather than speculating about the future state, studying His character revealed in the Word and practicing His virtues to perfect character after the divine likeness.Ms 31, 1908, par. 3 This brings each one individually to follow as the way character is formed and transformed, receiving help from infinite power through agencies the Holy Spirit presents, receiving Christ as personal Saviour and believing in Him, abiding in Him at all times and under all circumstances.ST Feb 27, 1901 By constantly exercising faith that works by love and purifies the soul from all defilement a constant supply of grace is received, which is the human privilege and part in working with God in saving the soul, gained step by step toward perfection for the life to come, developing faith that works by love and purifies the soul as the path to heaven.Ms 31, 1908, par. 3+1 This daily surrender puts aside one's own will for God's will and serves with sanctified abilities so God can work through His servants, with grace given to every person to choose to follow in self-denial, purity, and earnest persevering effort to overcome defects of character.8T 185.1–2+1 It belongs to each believer's personal experience in sacrifice and denial of old inclinations, while grace works through the Spirit to form new habits and overcome powerful propensities.Ms 47, 1894, par. 10–11

Denying self for His sake is consecration in which a person stops studying personal ease, inclinations and wishes, lies passive in God's hands, studies His holy will instead of personal will, and continually asks what the Lord wants done, with self hidden so Christ appears as worker, and without this one stands in the way of others doing God's work.6T 116.3+1 This daily denial, humility, cross-carrying, cooperation, abiding, living as seeing the Invisible, and fitness for any work called to, means loving neighbor as self and giving tangible proof of appreciation for God's love in sending His Son.Lt 2c, 1892, par. 19–21 That proof is personal sacrifice and earnest labor so saving truths go to destitute regions where people perish for bread of life, rather than expending ever more means on enjoyment and self-gratification while foreign missions are pressed and crippled for want of means placed in stewards' hands to extend truth.Lt 2c, 1892, par. 19–21

Dying to self every day by self-crucifixion puts souls on vantage ground and is necessary to walk in His footprints and follow Him.Ms 69, 1909, par. 8–9 It depends on God's daily converting power, with mind enlightened about purity and sanctification and heart responding to the Spirit's strivings, bringing new life by the Spirit's power and daily conversion with Christ's Spirit dwelling within.Ms 69, 1909, par. 8–9 Learning to die to self must come before entering the city of God, and in the day of final award determines whether one is told to depart as a worker of iniquity or brings truth into practical life and hears welcome into the Lord's joy, requiring yielding own will and way to God's control and purification by truth.Ms 69, 1909, par. 8–9+1 This daily death all must experience to share His suffering is shown by a self-denying, self-sacrificing spirit proving a missionary heart, sentiment and principle, with zeal to restore God's moral image in others rather than crush them.Lt 108, 1899, par. 20 Truth cuts men and women from the world's quarry into God's workshop, where axe, chisel and hammer smooth rough stones and remove rough edges, and polishing prepares each as a light-giving living stone, reflecting His beautiful image when He is loved more than self.Lt 108, 1899, par. 20 Such surrender is determined personal effort to turn from sin and yield fully to God, necessary to become free in Christ and resist Satan's drawing away, earnest, costly and continuing, for clearing the soul from sin and rolling back darkness takes more than ordinary effort.Lt 107, 1903, par. 7–9+1 Struggling into light brings severe conflict and Satan's buffetings like a death struggle, found by seeking God earnestly until Jesus is precious, and by cheerfully taking His yoke to find true rest, light to the consecrated soul.Lt 2, 1873, par. 10

Following requires daily self-denial marking a living Christian with steady growth in divine life, willingly bearing the cross and continuing to follow, with conversion renewed each day unto completed perfected character prepared for immortality.2T 505.1 When people have yielded to Satan and would escape his snares they must remain closely connected with God, daily crucify self, and be thoroughly transformed to gain victory and eternal life, resisting and overcoming self to preserve union with Christ.MYP 118.1–2+1 Being daily crucified with Him and daily partaker of His sufferings is lived in childlike simplicity and Christlike humility by the living breath of the Spirit, making human life noble, pure and after His likeness.Lt 210, 1899, par. 8 Much knowledge does not elevate in God's sight, but the humble is great, the most nearly childlike in faith, trust and devotion is highest in the kingdom, and being thus daily crucified wins souls to truth.Lt 210, 1899, par. 8 It is not mere profession but constant warfare against selfishness and pride of heart, crucifying self, growing better step by step, holding the Bible standard high instead of lowering it, preparing to meet Satan's assaults, living with the Master's Spirit, and keeping step in humble wholehearted commitment unto changed character and escape from Satan's snare.ST Oct 24, 1900+1

Following means a new heart covering mind, life and whole being, with affections withdrawn from the world and fastened on Christ, new mind with new purposes and motives, whose sign is a changed life shown in daily hourly dying to selfishness and pride.MYP 72.1 It requires daily death to self by resisting selfish desires for pleasure and ease through sustained effort, for growing weary and finding self-denial repulsive brings vulnerability to temptation, and one must continue resisting rather than yield to indolence and self-indulgence.GW 135.2 Success in Christian warfare requires this daily crucifixion, a daily struggle against self and steady effort to overcome, shaping character after Jesus in humility and self-control and turning to Him in prayer for help.20MR 30.2–4+1 It means putting away selfishness with every other defect, becoming submissive to God's will and sanctified to His service, through daily death to self and new conversion every day, gaining daily victories and advancing heavenward each day, necessary to enjoy God's favor, as lived out in dying daily.ST Mar 3, 1887 In forming a Godlike character this cross-bearing is necessary, and willful sin must not shame the heavenly hosts.Ms 117, 1906, par. 6–7

Self must die daily through genuine conversion of heart, mind, soul and body, bringing the whole person into obedience, including thoughts, actions and inward feelings brought under His will after the model of meekness and humility, overcoming as He overcame.STB 232.4–233.1+1 This humble meek life learning from Jesus and overcoming sin refuses to hold to one's own way and to refuse humbling before God, which prevents sanctification, while dying to self makes room to reveal His compassion and love.ST Nov 2, 1882+1 Before acceptable service self must die rather than clinging to cherished faults, hereditary and cultivated defects, selfishness, fault-finding, suspicion, distrust, strife and self-glorifying, so the Spirit can work, guide, mold, refine and beautify in righteousness, bring every thought into obedience, and give the personal experience needed to stand amid last-day perils.1MR 364.3–365.2

Denying self means humbling the proud heart, putting self out of question and out of sight, crying to God with broken hearts, confessing sins of hardness of heart and repenting, making no selfish attributes prominent, and expelling self and Satan from the heart's throne.Lt 137a, 1898, par. 9–13 Lifting the cross and following means letting Jesus appear and His love be revealed, loving as brethren in love and union, receiving His love and the oil of His grace to sweeten disposition and purify soul, and yielding to God's converting power to break the proud heart and mold mind and fashion character, and only then God hears and answers prayer.Lt 137a, 1898, par. 9–13 It means surrendering wrong habits, unholy ambition and love of worldly attractions so self dies and Christ lives within, for without entire surrender none can find the precious pearl or know peace and joy, and being almost Christian is not enough to enter heaven.Ms 154, 1898, par. 22

Denying self is saying all of Jesus and none of self, with daily cross-taking and following meaning bearing responsibility and enlisting as co-laborers with the world's Redeemer, though it is difficult to secure those who will do this while many gladly plan to please and satisfy their own tastes.Ms 3, 1888, par. 12 Self-renunciation at God's altar educates the soul to believe, receive and impart, teaching own insufficiency and God's power.ST Sep 13, 1899 Being emptied of self with willing devotion of heart and mind fits men and women for the Lord's work, and when given He fits the givers for service despite lack of education and apparent difficulties and obstacles.ST Mar 6, 1901 There is work for all meeting this condition, and through the Spirit they gain desired victories, with wisdom and strength rewarding energy and perseverance as God's gifts to the diligent humble worker.ST Mar 6, 1901 Deficient people are accepted into service only on condition they die daily to self and sanctify the Lord God in their hearts, being brought to light where darkness and errors are discovered and put away, and into position where He can teach, prune and discipline them to fitness as trustworthy workers, which regeneration is their only hope of successful labor and of reaching heaven.Ms 8, 1875, par. 2

The call is to daily conversion by God's converting power and deeper heart experience, especially for ministers, laying aside self-esteem, self-righteousness and self-exaltation as positive hindrance to God's work.Lt 330, 1908, par. 12 Taking up the cross daily means exemplifying a crucified and risen Saviour, letting the Lord rule every heart and being imbued with His Spirit, so work is not tame and lifeless but the voice proclaims His message with decided utterance that makes impression.Lt 330, 1908, par. 12 It means daily conversion through full submission and denial of self-indulgence, for the self-indulged does not know submission and remains under satanic molding, and prayer habits mean nothing when not carried out in life.Ms 77, 1897, par. 3 True Bible-standard religion touches the soul and forms character after the divine likeness, showing in small duties as well as large, and whoever has it feels need to be converted every day, because without it self-indulgence will rise and gain supremacy.Ms 77, 1897, par. 3 Each act of self-denial and each victory over sin makes further resistance and self-denial easier, strengthens spiritual character, and is seed sown unto eternal life, with unselfish action giving new strength to spirituality and likeness to Christ making one more noble and true.MYP 96.3

Fidelity brings self-denial and self-sacrifice, inconvenience and poverty, shame and reproach, and all who would share Christ's glory must share his suffering, for he bore all this for fallen humanity.Lt 17, 1899, par. 4–7+1 Bearing his cross is a privilege even when it involves personal sorrow, for he left heaven and its glory, became human to seek and save the perishing, suffered beyond what followers can suffer, bore their griefs and was tempted in every way as they are, teaching them to quiet complaint and be grateful to share even a small part of his path.Lt 60, 1874, par. 1

Those who live by these words remain closely connected with Christ and share in his sufferings so they may also share his glory.Lt 28, 1896, par. 19–20 They will face trials, temptation and darkness, and will examine themselves and study God's Word to test faith, and these experiences deepen understanding of what Christ is to them and of their work with him as God's co-laborers.Lt 28, 1896, par. 19–20 Those who share his sufferings must face the temptations he faced and overcome them in his name, and every trial faithfully endured adds to eternal glory.Lt 81, 1898, par. 6–10 As he was made perfect through suffering and manifold trials, so followers are made perfect through the same discipline, the most valuable experience obtainable in this present world, for in his humanity he gave all a pattern of perfect humanity and those coming after him enter partnership with the self-denying, self-sacrificing Redeemer taking self-denial and self-sacrifice as daily portion and working in the same line.Ms 60, 1898, par. 24–25

Following leads heavenward to glory and honor, immortality and eternal life and a crown of everlasting life, setting the choice between Christ and the world, between valuing heaven highest and valuing self more than Christ and God and heaven, between the narrow way of self-denial to life and the broad road of self-indulgence with its evil tendencies and associates in evil that leads lower in moral value to ruin and perishing in sins.Lt 69, 1899, par. 6–8+1 It is submission to Christ rather than self-pleasing or self-gratification, walking as he walked in meekness and lowliness because the path he followed leads to the heavenly mansions he is preparing, leaving hindrances behind as they continue toward the city of God with no human device able to make the way smooth or easy.Ms 16, 1898, par. 5–8+1 Detaching affections from the world and its snares, parting with worldly idols such as wealth, honor and high position for which there is no room while following on the narrow way, and being ready to sacrifice anything needed to obey God and give self wholly to God belong to entering the strait gate and traveling the narrow path to the celestial city.RH Mar 28, 1912+1 To be a Christian is to be a laborer together with God, not to sit in an easy chair and be carried to heaven but to do earnest work, fight the good fight faithfully, run the race with patience and be temperate in all things to obtain an eternal crown, using reason to choose the way of life over the way to hell and proving by this life that heaven is wanted, since he from the manger lived a life of sacrifice to hold out salvation and those he acknowledges in this world he will acknowledge and not be ashamed of.Ms 17, 1887, par. 9

It means dying to self daily, making God first in every part of life and keeping Jesus and his glory continually in view, and those who would share his future glory must be willing to suffer for him now, with trials purifying and preparing them for that inheritance.ExVEGW 54.2–3+1 This continual denial and daily cross-bearing prepares believers to receive the seal of the living God, endure the time of trouble and dwell with God, and to share his sufferings now and his glory, honor, immortality and eternal life hereafter.EW 57.1+1 Following means willingness to suffer for his name, bearing humiliation, reproach and shame as he did, learning from his suffering and crucifixion to be crucified to the world and give up hope in its pomp and pleasures, since sharing his glory requires sharing in his suffering.2SP 325.1–2+1 Beholding his suffering to save the lost breaks self-seeking and makes a person willing to serve him wholeheartedly whatever the cost, gladly bearing trial, shame and persecution for his sake, for he endured shame, insult, deprivation and death and his followers are not asked to take a path he did not take, and those who share his sufferings and lose their lives for his sake will keep them for eternal life and share his glory.DA 439.3+1 This self-denial belongs to a life devoted entirely to him who died and rose again and intercedes for his followers.Lt 50, 1891, par. 4

Following requires denying self and living for eternal life by dying to pride, giving whole interest to the truth and separating from the world, needing thorough heart-work, effort and moral courage, for outward profession or supposed hope is not enough.1T 242.2+1 A life of self-indulgence is contrary to this call and does not prepare a person to enjoy his presence in heaven, but involves transformation of character shaped by his life of humiliation, shaping manners and conduct that mark true followers.Ms 67, 1886, par. 3–4+1 Dying to self, enduring suffering and serving God with energy in daily work rather than choosing ease looks to the promised immortal inheritance rather than present comfort as reward.21MR 366.2 The way toward heaven requires self-denial and bearing crosses at every step, and his suffering on the cross for redemption shows the cross is the means by which human nature is exalted and people are brought into connection with heaven, so following means living by self-sacrificing love and giving for the good of others rather than seeking happiness through self-gratification or selfish gain.4T 79.3–4

The present call is to live with self-denial, purity and holiness rather than conforming to the world, for the cross lies in the path to heaven and those who avoid its cost choose an easier road instead of following him.9MR 78.2–3+1 The way is a cross-bearing way with no rest in this life, a straight and narrow road to be traveled forward with cheerfulness because the King of glory trod it before, being meek followers treading in his footsteps without complaining of roughness and without a murmuring thought over trials, craving the suffering part and choosing to be perfected through sufferings rather than going to heaven without suffering, moved by seeing Jesus who suffered to purchase a rich inheritance and the martyrs who laid down lives for truth, longing to be partaker with him of his sufferings in order to be partaker of his glory, for every trial well endured makes rich in glory though trials are the lot of God's dear children.8MR 340.1–2 This uproots selfishness and directs life toward God's glory, connected with winning the crown of life.Ms 60, 1894, par. 11

Following means accepting self-denial, suffering and reproach as portion in this life, and the cross is a pledge of eternal life in the kingdom of glory.RH Jul 23, 1901+1 Lifting the cross means pressing forward bravely in the path of self-sacrifice and doing it cheerfully, placing the will in harmony with the divine will since highest good and all true elevation are found only in him and there is no exaltation except through him, though many failures come from not striving lawfully, and those who lift it cheerfully will be guided by his Spirit now and received into glory afterward.RH Jul 23, 1901 Bearing that cross is the very highest honor each person can have and pledges the crown of eternal life, in contrast to self-choosing that misdirects talents and builds with perishable hay, wood and stubble instead of imperishable gold, silver and precious stones.20MR 62.3+1 To follow means lifting and carrying the cross now in order to wear the crown later, walking humbly before God, glorifying his name, steadfastly enduring chastening and loss without fainting, murmuring, complaining or desponding, revealing his meekness because he gave his life, showing fellowship with him in trial with Christian fortitude, and using the short time left to be witnesses with strength and hope in God whose grace is sufficient, for those timid who will not venture to bear it may fail to win though they desire the conqueror's crown.Lt 13, 1879, par. 5+1

Following requires self-denial and willingness to suffer learned at the foot of the cross by giving up worldly gain, honor and hopes when they conflict with higher things, and those who choose to suffer will receive eternal riches and share in God's inheritance beyond comparison with earthly possessions.SLP 283.1 It means taking the self-denying path he trod and bearing the cross in this world, with trials endured for truth and for him as part of that path, better to bear them than to have every wish granted and lose eternal life.Lt 1, 1896, par. 4–5 He calls people to this costly discipleship through his word and through the poor and suffering who ask for help and in righteous causes that bring poverty, toil and reproach, and receiving him means responding to that call rather than merely acknowledging him as a figure of history.DA 56.1–2 Accepting and obeying truth requires denying self, bearing the cross daily and following him, with the cross bringing shame and reproach standing in the path, while those who evade it to follow selfish desires, worldly pleasure or popular approval turn from the light leading to heaven and lose lasting honor and eternal life.ST Feb 16, 1882

Everyone who takes up the cross comes to a Rephidim in experience, where beginning the Christian life does not bring freedom from all want and difficulty, for life is not all green pastures and cooling streams but disappointment overtakes, privations come, circumstances bring into difficult places and grievous trials come even while following in the narrow way and doing best.ST Sep 10, 1896+1 Such suffering does not mean the believer has walked by own wisdom far from God, though the conscience-stricken reasons so and is tempted to doubt and despondency and to ask whether the Lord is with them or not, and traveling this rugged path marked out for those who serve God means denying self of many pleasures, with those who serve God thought to have many more trials than the unbeliever.ST Sep 10, 1896+1 A test comes to every soul in a daily battle costing mortification and possibly reputation, natural faults of character must be determinedly overcome for his sake or they will master the soul, and taking up the cross daily means becoming for his dear sake a partaker of shame and reproach, as he risked all this and a hundredfold more to bring salvation within reach, enduring all humiliation man could bring through amazing condescension that fallen man so sinful and weak in moral power might become a sure stepping-stone to fellow man.ST Aug 4, 1898 Those enlisting in his service can expect trials, temptation and persecution from Satan, leaving Satan's service to obey humbly and lift and bear the cross after him.Lt 42, 1878, par. 7–11

Those who obey God's word must expect trials even from unexpected places, overcoming is individual work with safety in standing firmly on God's word, and bearing the cross in obedience also helps others bear theirs.HSFM 232.3 Following may bring obstacles to be faced bravely and without complaint by denying self, taking up the cross daily and continuing after him.Lt 14, 1902, par. 13–14 When one accepts truth he will have a cross to lift in difficulties and temptations, meeting trial bravely as part of Christian warfare in which all heaven is interested, with Christ knowing beforehand what temptations will be met and standing by as very present help ready to give needed help to lift the cross.6MR 50.1–2+1 The cross is borne by giving thanks in everything for keeping power through him, believing he will do just as he has said and relying on his word in prayer for help, and then peace passing understanding will rest on the believer even if joy and blessing are not felt at the moment of praying, whereas remaining sad and gloomy and cast down by discouragement after accepting truth shows lack of God's peace and misrepresents him.6MR 50.1–2 In pure mercy affliction and privation are used to help believers serve the Master and carry God's work forward amid peril and cross-bearing, for God chooses people he can work with amid affliction, poverty, humiliation, disappointment and blighted hopes and makes them instruments for his work and great plan of mercy, not leaving nor forsaking those who bear the cross, though taking themselves out of his hands to plan for themselves makes the path trying.Lt 169, 1899, par. 4

Worldly concerns can keep even sympathetic people from making a decided stand for truth or bearing its cost.Lt 93, 1890, par. 6–8 Peril and persecution can awaken self-denial and cross-bearing and bring forth faithful followers who show his Spirit.Ms 62, 1886, par. 54–56 Following involves sacred obligations, stern conflict, active labor and warfare against the world, the flesh and the devil, not freedom from conflict, idle living or an easy task, and enjoyment of his service is found in victories gained for him through earnest struggle.16MR 131.1

Daily self-denial shows itself in glorifying God, serving others, and cultivating cheerfulness rather than dwelling on self, practiced joyfully for Christ's sake and because it is right, not with a mournful spirit, by giving up imagined wants and refusing to let anything loved divert mind and affections from Scripture, prayer and service.Lt 30a, 1876, par. 13+2 It is lived by serving suffering people, comforting them and offering hope rather than seeking outward pilgrimage, by loving self less and ceasing to be self-caring, loving the Lord and His cause with unselfish love and neighbor as self, willingly accepting inconvenience to do good such as showing hospitality and carrying out Christ's work.Lt 26, 1895, par. 10–12+2 Unselfish action, purity of thought, honesty, truthfulness, integrity, kind deeds and sympathetic speech, available to rich and poor alike rather than pursuit of worldly show, bear fruit in a holy heart wholly devoted to Christ, with God in the thoughts and love for those He died for, preferring plain duties to romantic novelties, accepting the appointed place, delighting in God's love with thankfulness and praise and strengthening others' good purposes toward maturity.MH 198.2+1

The greatest victory is daily following by denying greedy self which withholds good by spending on selfish purposes, living every day as Christ lived, beginning not in great deeds but in earliest years and everyday actions, renouncing earthly treasure for heavenly treasure opposite to the world's policy of acquiring money and advantage.Lt 52, 1897, par. 6–8+1 Practiced in giving, this pours means into the Lord's treasury to supply His house and advance His work in partnership with Christ, with blessing in return and final joy in seeing souls redeemed, and each member is to use opportunities, contribute according to ability and help carry responsibilities rather than leaving work to a few, sharing spiritual light and means in harmony with angels.Lt 52, 1897, par. 6–8+2 Giving to support God's work lets others share heaven's blessings, while unwillingness to deny self for this shows unworthiness of the life to come, whereas those who value the work give willingly and cheerfully in tithe, gifts and offerings, and replacing religious giving with amusements and games of chance neglects self-denial and self-sacrifice.1T 545.3+2

Daily self-denial includes giving up needless spending and costly clothing, furnishings, purchases and gifts that foster pride or self-gratification, living simply, saving and using money wisely for God's work so truth can reach all people and souls receive the bread of life.Lt 178, 1902, par. 3–7+2 The cross cuts against natural inclination, uproots pride and cleanses the soul of selfishness and self-love, requiring restraint of wants, tastes, appetites and inclinations including extravagant dress and delicacies, joyful denial of imaginary wants, and refusal to let possessions, comforts or idols absorb mind and affections or hinder soul-saving.Lt 31, 1891, par. 43–44+2 Following more closely forbids seeking influence by appearance of wealth and emulating worldlings in expensive furniture and clothes when money is needed to save perishing souls, requiring becoming dress and a comfortable home with necessities for health but choosing much less expensive things in harmony with Bible faith, practicing economy to give more to the Lord, restraining selfish indulgence and asking before spending whether money can be saved by self-denial for Christ's sake.Ms 13, 1896, par. 1–5+2 Worth is measured not by dress, houses or lands but by doing as Christ did who gave riches, splendor and high command and His life to purchase eternal life, studying His life and seeking His grace, while self-indulgence wastes means and destroys health all wealth cannot restore, and extravagant living, spending beyond means, accepting unneeded money and indulging appetite are inconsistent with following, whether minister or lay member, and set a poor example for children.6MR 138.1–139.3+3

Following means denying selfishness, pride, covetousness, extravagance, love of display, dress, elegant houses and costly furniture, living with far greater humility and clear distinction from the world in Christ's self-denying path, making the whole life one of self-denial and economy to have means for benevolence, respond to calls for help and lift every branch of the work, which develops habits and character winning divine approval and fitness to dwell forever with Him.TEPD 70.1+3 Simplicity and economy are essential lessons, resisting pride, self-indulgence, wastefulness and idleness and worldly influences that keep people in poverty, and self-denying discipline restraining inclinations can free even those with little money to give something for saving souls, as in refusing needless comforts and wasteful habits such as tobacco and tea and using savings for the cause, a small sacrifice God notices and can bless with surprising results.SCEV 42.2–3+2 Denying self is applied to giving part of earnings to help schools out of debt, and in urgent need giving means, time, intellect and whole being, including working together to place Christ's Object Lessons before the world.ROTS 7.2+1

Every family member from oldest to youngest is to practice self-denial by giving up candy and unnecessary things and putting saved pennies into a self-denial box in every home to help the needy suffering colored people of the Southern States by presenting present truth and intelligently helping, relieving, educating and training them, God's plan against which no hindering word is to be spoken, bringing great blessing, spreading by example to neighboring children and homes and teaching children mission work, opening the Word simply and giving reasons for faith.RH Jun 22, 1905 This includes plainly defined duty to a poor brother by putting him on his feet where he can support himself, remembering the same need may come to oneself, enlightened by God's Word with hardness of heart put away and brotherly love cherished.Lt 17, 1898, par. 13 Churches and individuals must deny self daily because people in destitute fields are as precious as those at home, spending nothing unnecessarily on dress, houses or any line, giving up supposed wants and conveniences, binding about wants and using means judiciously to enlighten the world and sustain workers, serving with Christ's Spirit and using influence and abilities to save those without God and hope.RH Mar 10, 1903+2 Every soul is to deny self and lift the cross as a home missionary by spending far less for self-gratification so living working agents exist in all churches, and all workers in field or home must restrict wants to be abundant in good fruits, making most of every ability and agency without hesitation as the end is near.RH Jan 31, 1907+2

True followers live sober, humble, holy lives rather than seeking worldly pleasures, for pleasure gatherings, joining unbelievers in picnics under claim of innocent amusement, frivolous empty conversation, ballroom, shows and amusements God does not approve separate from God, show they are not following, and make miserable examples to unbelievers who will be tested in last-day perils to prove genuineness of faith.1T 269.1+3 Following requires denying self rather than yielding to personal desires in amusements, dress conformity and worldly society where the Redeemer could not be welcomed, denying self for truth's sake in clothing, ornaments or conveniences and seeking God's guidance about expenditures, for idolatry of dress and conformity place a barrier between people and Jesus and mere membership is not union with Christ.MH 198.1+3 Bearing the cross includes separating from worldly customs in dress and accepting inconvenience rather than yielding to fashion, for dressing and acting like the world is not bearing the cross, and evidence of converted taste appears in dress of all walking the narrow path of holiness, with parents teaching by refusing vanity, expense for display and pull of fashion to do right.6MR 160.4+2

Daily bearing the cross in the home means surrendering to God every day by guarding every word and deportment and acting with kindness and tenderest love in accordance with Christian principles so Christ's character is represented and Bible religion not degraded, bringing special help and daily victories and making the home a sacred school training workers for Christ.ST Sep 1, 1898+2 Rejecting fellowship with Christ in service to keep gospel benefits while denying its spirit rejects the cross, and fathers and mothers who do this for children deny them to Christ's cross and give them to the enemy to their ruin present and future.ED 264.3 Coming after Him means being a doer of the Word with God's law in the heart and His Spirit possessed bringing harmony, making the wife careful of words, controlling spirit, submissive yet companion not bondslave, and making the husband refuse to lord it over his wife or be arbitrary, cherishing home affection so the Spirit-dwelt home becomes a type of heaven.ST Nov 14, 1892+1 Husband and wife must both gain the essential victory over stubborn will by daily denying selfishness through grace, conquering self only by Christ's aid, yielding will to His, destroying selfishness root, living His life with self-sacrifice and sympathy, learning to conquer self and strengthen weak points with Jesus as light, strength and crown of rejoicing.7T 49.1–2+1

For children the cross means small burdens and everyday acts of denying personal wishes and inclinations instead of pleasing self, living for others in kind considerate words and actions, imitating Christ not only in major sacrifices but daily, learning to resist self-indulgence and pampering of wishes and appetites as they give hearts to God, with willing obedience to parents part of learning to obey God in ongoing struggle against sin.Lt 48, 1886, par. 9–10+4 For youth following involves warfare and a daily cross by coming out of the world and imitating His life, receiving broad education then serving wherever they go, giving up ease and amusement for earnest service, carrying His burdens and sharing sufferings and devoting abilities to ministry rather than debate or foolish talk.MYP 378.1–2+2 Self-denial is difficult for youth particularly when drawn to singing schools and spelling schools, and young men professing truth must still learn sacrifice, take burden and responsibility instead of excusing self and living at ease while others are burdened, living as one bought with a price whose strength and time are not his own, which makes truth esteemed, purifies life and alone fits for immortal inheritance.SG2 250.1–2+1

Taking up the cross daily means faithfully performing home duties in the right spirit, cheerfully lifting even work disagreeable to natural feelings instead of neglecting it, doing one's best and duty in cooperation with heavenly beings willing even to lose life to save it.Ms 60, 1894, par. 8+1 This daily faithfulness gives experience enabling permanent thorough spiritual work and best prepares missionaries in a Christian household where God is feared, loved and worshiped, faithfulness second nature, careless inattention not permitted and quiet communion with God essential.Ms 140, 1897, par. 17 Denying self means giving up comforts and selfish gratifications when needed, accepting plain furnishings and wardrobes to gain freedom, welcome believers and provide healthful lodging, overcoming harmful customs and social influences to serve and win souls, refusing to spend the Lord's money on wasteful enjoyment and vanities, for knowing truth without living it shows deeds of darkness not children of light.Ms 24, 1894, par. 14+2

Self-denial and cross-bearing are needed in service, and their loss is shown by scant gifts, offerings and feeble efforts despite resources and ability to do more, for loving ease and self-indulgence instead of the cross keeps talents from advancing God's work.6T 445.3+2 Every child of God must deny self, take up the cross daily and follow in self-sacrifice modeled on Christ's infinite sacrifice giving a new character reproducing His own, becoming a personal worker burdened for perishing souls, leaving comfortable churches to raise the standard where truth has not gone, giving self with all aptitude, skill, learning, position, wealth and influence as stewards and servants, as Jesus left heaven and became poor so others through His poverty might be rich, with urgency because time is short.6T 449.2+2 Each fixes eternal destiny by this choice while a world is to be warned, angels attending every true self-sacrificing worker, while those who will not work except for demanded wages fail, and those obeying enter the divine Planner's design to be instructed and guided, making life subordinate to God's work and subject to His word, with religion not confined to rest day and formal duties but identifying with suffering humanity.Lt 93, 1899, par. 14+2

Laying hold of the cross rightly means every believer labors for souls instead of leaving work to ministers, acting as laborers with wisdom, caution and love for neighbors and friends, exerting holy influence by exemplary lives and feeling as brother's keeper responsible for surrounding souls, uniting with Him to save the world from perishing by earnest unwearying effort using all one has and is to God's glory and others' good, bound to Christ for life and death.7T 9.1+2 A profession refusing self-denial and sacrifice is unworthy of eternal life purchased by suffering and blood, and following means taking responsibility for a brother's welfare, living consecrated service not personal pleasure, recognizing constant obligation and willingly doing His work as He worked to carry redemption to others.Ms 139, 1898, par. 82+2 As Head He calls everyone claiming belief to follow His self-denial in working for conversion of those Satan seeks to destroy, rallying without delay under the blood-stained banner in unceasing warfare to the gates, every convert assigned duty, everyone willing to be or do anything, with joy and success following decided effort.4T 382.1+2 Refusing self-denial hinders faithful workers, misrepresents Christ and blocks fullness of grace to churches, while active soul-work rather than only receiving food, freeing ministers for new fields, and reaching the high standard in cooperation with the Lord mark cross-bearing.9T 140.2+1

Denying self fulfills the church's mission to save souls and gather the wasting harvest by obeying the command to go into all the world, freely giving as received, yielding talents of influence and means in earnest toil, going among people worldwide letting light shine and working as He did rather than gathering while avoiding the cross.ST Dec 9, 1886+2 Believers in America as depositaries of sacred trusts are to open the living oracles to all nations, tongues and people.Lt 4, 1899, par. 72–75 Denying self and taking up the cross applies to missionary work carrying truth to other regions with self-sacrificing effort, leaving comfortable concentrated centers to go where truth is unheard, trusting God while building work elsewhere, stirring members to lift the cross, and accepting sacrifice to reach the neglected Southern field by those who serve and those who support.Lt 44, 1898, par. 13–15+4 His missionaries must restrain wants and work in self-denial learning from His life, being sanctified from selfishness and self-superiority, discerning the field's needs, cooperating fully with fellow laborers and pushing into new unworked fields rather than centering means in one place, depending on God's wisdom not self.6T 104.3+4

In missionary service this means dedicating wholly to God and enduring hard work, trials, discouragement and privation with persevering faith, ready to go wherever duty calls through toil, hardship and sacrifice, using time and talents for God not selfish earthly purposes, with those sharing His self-denial sharing His joy in seeing souls saved.SBAWP 33.1+2 Even heavy fearful work such as selling books to help schools, continued without turning back with prayer for success, brings answered prayer, peace, gladness, courage for timid beginners, deeper heavenly experience and grace more valuable than gold.Lt 31, 1894, par. 17–19+2 No true minister can be a rich man but must follow in self-denial, not burying means in houses and lands, not demanding all wages or complaining of meager wages or cultivating expensive dress, but taking less to leave means for another burdened soul, beginning at the lowest round with heaven in view, becoming rich in heaven's treasure with God's Word as mine of wealth for eternal reward.Lt 94, 1899, par. 29–31 Choosing only where and when to work and avoiding responsibility is not bearing the cross, and ministers who have not carried it nor felt soul-worth at Calvary become mechanical, formal and powerless, bringing no Saviour to people.GW92 276.2–277.1+3

Coming after Him requires self-denial as a lasting characteristic keeping the simple self-sacrificing spirit of early years, and demanding large wages violates that denial, spoiling the work's spirit and like deadly leprosy diseasing the whole body if followed by the majority, so workers must not outgrow self-denial but put God's work before high pay, look to His life and willingly sacrifice so more can share the gospel, lest seeking high pay lead to extravagance, weaken influence and forfeit God's prospering hand.1MR 75.3+1 This means not using an expensive family as reason to demand high wages but limiting claims and sacrificing for God's work, since demanding high wages burdening an institution and limiting resources violates personal sacrifice for the gospel.STB 794.1+1 In publishing work it means willingly reducing wages and wants when money is scarce so the work can continue and needed workers remain, which advances His work and is respected and rewarded by the Lord.Lt 25, 1896, par. 1–5 Following is shown by practicing simplicity, accepting sacrifice and sharing the publishing house's losses and affliction rather than seeking advantage, bringing precious experience, while those seeking pleasure without practicing self-denial are unfit for office service, and His servants willingly and cheerfully bear service demands and responsibilities.RH Aug 4, 1903+2

For physicians working with God denying self means dedicating abilities to appointed work among His commandment-keeping people rather than pursuing outside work or treating talents as their own, refusing worldly display, competition and effort to gain influence by appearing wealthy in dress, equipage or furniture, practicing sacrifice, meekness, lowliness and dependence on God, whom God honors while He cannot work by His Spirit with those competing with the world.6T 251.1–4+2 Following His example in medical missionary work requires self-renunciation and entire consecration putting personal interests beneath the work, otherwise self-indulgence gradually takes hold and causes great harm.STB 23.4+1 For a minister's wife following requires yielding selfish feelings, wishes, pleasures and natural tastes to duty, joining her husband's soul-saving work rather than contradicting his preaching through selfishness or discontent, accepting hardship cheerfully, traveling with him to labor for others' good in meetings, family worship and conversation not for enjoyment, bringing daily satisfaction in unselfish service.1T 451.1–2+3

For teachers following means having a self-denying self-sacrificing spirit to serve children faithfully, obeying the Master's direction even when conflicting with desires or bringing hardship, surrendering will and heart and experiencing the truth urged, making Christ the pattern through self-discipline to bring character to divine likeness.CT 183.1+3 In education selfish ambition, love of gain or ease and lack of piety must not displace Christ, and ministers need real conversion, holiness, personal knowledge of Christ and daily experience, turning from self and sin.6T 204.2+1 Self-denial fits people for service in last days especially ministry, giving humble devoted heart, vital connection with God, constant learning to do better, deepening love and knowledge till truth becomes part of being, quickened perception, growth in grace and habitual fidelity in humble daily duty, qualifying to win souls without years of preparation.7T 25.2–26.3+2 The verse calls for volunteers to enlist under His standard and bear the banner before the world by courageous testimony, resisting worldliness, warning against first steps of immorality and vice, stirring sluggish energies and increasing church power, first cleansing the soul temple and enthroning Christ in the heart to enable energetic effort and zeal persuading men to be reconciled, answering Here am I, send me, and taking up work where He left it to completion as faithful soldiers not seeking admiration or ease.Lt 23, 1890, par. 13–15+1

Denying self and lifting the cross means personal devoted labor instead of expecting work done by proxy while others enter untried fields, applying to going forth as medical missionaries cultivating every power to the uttermost, with promise that those meeting its condition will have God communicate as with Paul and Barnabas as representatives of what many should be.STMMW 16.1–2 It requires refusing to crowd into one place, leaving Battle Creek, living as pilgrims and strangers, establishing schools and sanitariums in rural places where truth is unrepresented, working to spread truth rather than make money, instructing youth and going to dark places telling Christ's love while trusting God in obedience.11MR 155.3–156.2 Taking up the cross in self-denial includes stewardship of possessions, dealing truly with God in money matters and account books, giving God His own, refusing to keep worldly appearance at cost of obedience as Christ became poor to make rich, using God-given talents including ability to get money for His glory not self-enrichment, yielding cherished things, performing disagreeable duties and keeping business, relationships, ease, honor and every interest subject to His highest claims.12MR 229.1+2 Every person is tested as the young ruler was whether as steward of lent goods they can be trusted with eternal riches by refusing to grasp treasures for natural pleasure and using possessions as God directs for others, choosing eternal weight of glory, for refusal proves unworthy and unfit for the kingdom, while the Christian in worldly business bears the cross in its perplexities without making wealth his god.RH Jan 13, 1863+2

Denying self includes disciplining appetite and refusing fleshly lusts warring against the soul, with fasting and prayer seeking grace to do so, accepting duties opposing selfish appetite, and parents needing His Spirit to discipline themselves and train children are called to so deny self and follow.20MR 105.2–106.1+1 It means giving up comforts, idols, selfish gratification, love of money and worldly advantage to recover and keep faith, no temporal gain worth risking the soul, and it may demand sacrifice closer than possessions including giving up a desired marriage if pursuing it would harm or stain the cause, for God's blessing will not attend a choice injuring His cause.Ms 2, 1863, par. 14–15+2 Shouldering the cross can mean giving up a wife fully set not to live with her husband, accepting painful loss manfully rather than attempting a union making both miserable, and dying to self means giving up desire to control and dictate to a wife and opening the heart to Jesus so His peace rules.Lt 109, 1893, par. 19–21+1 Taking up the cross daily can mean willingly submitting to be held in doubt by one's own husband, bearing that trial patiently while refusing to weaken confidence in leaders and counting own suffering as nothing, and included choosing to remain away from distant meetings though greatly wanting to attend, sacrificing inclination for God's cause, laboring with hands to supply servants' necessity and hungry souls, deciding attendance by whether it gratifies self or glorifies God.Lt 8, 1854, par. 7–8+2

The verse speaks directly to the violent-tempered person just as he is, calling him to hear, deny self, take up the cross daily and follow by cooperating and receiving an entirely different education, letting influence mold the soul so Christ's Spirit transforms to His likeness instead of reflecting Satan's image by temper, subduing hasty temper, passions and impulsive reactions with patience and forbearance, for defending self as if to save life leads to losing it.Lt 46, 1898, par. 23+1 Denying self in coming after Jesus means putting away unsanctified ways and learning from His love, meekness, lowliness and self-denial, letting God hew, square and polish every rough edge till character becomes a precious living stone emitting light in His temple.5MR 275.1–3 Every worker, especially in institutions at the heart of the work, is to bear God's signature by humbling the heart, acknowledging His sovereignty, working in humility as servants joined with Him, living self-denial and learning meekness so no overbearing spirit is seen, with pride and worldly ambition put away guiding every decision and no human policy shaping work instead of the Holy Spirit.Lt 2b, 1892, par. 3+4 Those connected with God's work must deny self daily by not grasping everything for self even when the cause suffers but working unselfishly, conquering temperament in His name, having His mind, standing on the Lord's side wearing His yoke as He worked, for God cannot use grasping self-seekers, and this calls away from selfish control and lording over consciences toward service.Lt 122, 1895, par. 2+2

Each person must deny self, lift the cross and follow as the self-denying Redeemer, and keeping self-interest, seeking covetous advantage, discouraging faithful workers, imposing perverted vision, making duty hard and tearing those at duty violate this command and will be seen with shame as idolatry, for failure to obey hinders success and lets self-indulgence take hold harming the work by example while personal interests must be subordinated to God's work.Ms 2, 1897, par. 13+1 Following requires giving Him first place without letting love for another become selfish or idolatrous dividing heart devotion to God.Lt 78, 1894, par. 3–4 Self-denial must be lived in practical health reform and use of money, not merely taught, refusing worldly plans and financial advantage that would compromise faith, hinder work or lower righteousness, with neglect when prosperous endangering the soul while poverty may teach it, and servants' example should encourage others to know God better and seek holiness.TEPD 2.1–2+1 Self-denial and self-sacrifice advance the church spiritually and bring financial prosperity, shown by willingly sharing His suffering and sacrifice, and must be both preached from the pulpit and carried out in practical arrangements like a Bible school with no contradiction between teaching and practice, through earnest thinking, praying and even pleading for means in emergency.6T 102.2+2 Believers show self-denial in life because words and actions shape how others regard Bible religion and reveal the difference between Christianity and worldliness, living as examples, dealing fairly without seeking advantage in bargain, imitating the Redeemer to seek the crown of life.CT 324.1–2+1