1 Corinthians 10:11: “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.”

ABSTRACT

This article examines the trials of ancient Israel in the wilderness as timeless lessons on faith, obedience, and the perils of discontent and lust, urging us to embrace God’s provisions for physical and spiritual health as pathways to holiness and divine favor.

JOURNEY OF FAITH: TRIALS TEST HEARTS!

The sacred scriptures, particularly the narrative of Israel’s exodus from Egypt, presents more than a mere historical account. It unveils a profound spiritual journey, a proving ground where faith, obedience, and contentment are rigorously tested. For understanding these trials is paramount. It’s not just about ancient Israelites; it’s a mirror reflecting our own temptations and the ever-present dangers of straying from God’s guidance. This article delves into the depths of Israel’s murmuring, their insatiable lust for flesh, and the potent divine lessons embedded within these experiences, urging profound introspection on our own relationship with God and His benevolent provisions. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. The Bible shows this in Exodus 15:26, “And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.” Joshua 1:8 reinforces the need for steadfast obedience, “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” Ellen G. White adds perspective to this journey, stating, “The history of ancient Israel is a striking illustration of the past experience of the Adventist body. God led His people in the advent movement, even as He led the children of Israel from Egypt. In the great disappointment their faith was tested as was that of the Hebrews at the Red Sea” (The Great Controversy, p. 464, 1911). Expanding on the significance of these historical accounts, Sr. White further notes, “The wilderness wandering was not only ordained as a judgment upon the rebels and murmurers, but it was to serve as a discipline for the rising generation, preparatory to their entrance into the Promised Land” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 407, 1890). The experiences of Israel serve as a vital roadmap, guiding us away from their errors and toward God’s favor through obedience. But what ignites when subtle grievances turn into consuming flames of dissatisfaction?

DISCONTENT DANGER: FIRE STRIKES CAMP!

The Israelites, recently liberated from Egyptian bondage, found themselves on a journey toward the Promised Land, a path fraught with both physical and spiritual challenges. Initially, their complaints began subtly, but they soon escalated, displeasing the Lord greatly. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. We read in Numbers 11:1, “And when the people complained, it displeased the Lord: and the Lord heard it; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the Lord burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp.” This verse demonstrates that their initial discontent was not merely a minor grievance, but a spark that ignited divine wrath. Sr. White elaborates on this, noting, “The mixed multitude that came up with the Israelites from Egypt were a source of continual temptation and trouble” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 379, 1890). This “mixed multitude” symbolizes the worldly influences that often creep into the church, stirring up dissatisfaction and diverting focus from God’s ordained path. The fire that consumed the outskirts of the camp serves as a stark warning to us: ungratefulness and complaining, even in seemingly minor matters, can have devastating consequences, inviting divine displeasure and hindering our spiritual progress. These truths are echoed in 1 Corinthians 10:10, “Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.” Philippians 2:14 bolsters this idea, “Do all things without murmurings and disputings.” Sr. White emphasizes the infectious nature of complaining, “Murmuring against God’s appointed agencies is murmuring against God Himself” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 65, 1882). Furthermore, Sr. White connects murmuring to a lack of faith in God’s provision, “The Lord has given me a message for His people to beware of complaining and murmuring” (Manuscript Releases, Vol. 9, p. 291, 1990). This quote highlights that focusing on blessings and God’s goodness is the antidote to murmuring and discontent. But how does this discontent blaze into a desperate craving for the past’s forbidden comforts?

CRAVING CHAOS: REJECTING HEAVEN’S BREAD!

The discontent that smoldered within the camp soon erupted into a full-blown crisis, centered on a craving for the foods of their former bondage. The Bible vividly describes this escalation: “And the mixed multitude that was among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?” (Numbers 11:4). This cry for flesh was not merely a request for a change in diet; it was a profound rejection of God’s miraculous provision of manna, the “bread of heaven.” Sr. White clarifies the significance of this divine provision: “In choosing man’s food in Eden, the Lord showed what was the best diet; in the choice made for Israel He taught the same lesson. He brought the Israelites out of Egypt, and undertook their training, that they might be a people for His own possession. Through them He desired to bless and teach the world. He provided them with the food best adapted for this purpose, not flesh, but manna, ‘the bread of heaven.’” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 311, 1905). Their longing for flesh exposed a deeper spiritual malaise: a preference for the familiar comforts of slavery over the challenges of freedom and faith. This resonates with our own struggles, doesn’t it? How often do we, too, find ourselves yearning for the “leeks and onions” of our past, rather than embracing the spiritual nourishment God offers? These truths are echoed in Psalm 106:14-15, “But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert. And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.” 1 Timothy 6:6 supports contentment, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” Sr. White further explains their rejection of manna, “The Lord gave the people that which was not for their highest good, because they persisted in desiring it; they would not be satisfied with those things that would prove a benefit to them. Their rebellious desires were gratified, but they were left to suffer the result” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 382, 1890). Adding to this understanding of manna’s purpose, Sr. White writes, “God might as easily have provided them with flesh as with manna, but a restriction was placed upon them for their good. It was His purpose to supply them with food better suited to their wants than the feverish diet to which many had become accustomed in Egypt” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 378, 1890). This powerfully connects the physical food to the spiritual nourishment God intended them to receive through obedience and faith. But what unfolds when God grants such rebellious desires in judgment?

JUDGMENT PROVISION: MEAT BECOMES CURSE!

The Lord’s response to Israel’s incessant murmuring and lust for flesh was a mixture of provision and judgment, a testament to His patience and His commitment to teaching His people a profound lesson. Numbers 11:18-20 records God’s decree: “Sanctify yourselves against to morrow, and ye shall eat flesh: for ye have wept in the ears of the Lord, saying, Who shall give us flesh to eat? for it was well with us in Egypt: therefore the Lord will give you flesh, and ye shall eat. Ye shall not eat one day, nor two days, nor five days, neither ten days, nor twenty days; But even a whole month, until it come out at your nostrils, and it be loathsome unto you: because that ye have despised the Lord which is among you, and have wept before him, saying, Why came we forth out of Egypt?” This seemingly generous provision was, in reality, a severe test. Sr. White explains the outcome: “Large numbers were cut down by burning fevers, while the most guilty among them were smitten as soon as they tasted the food for which they had lusted” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 382, 1890). This tragic consequence underscores a crucial truth: what we crave outside of God’s will, even if seemingly granted, can ultimately lead to our destruction. The very thing they desired became the instrument of their judgment, illustrating the perilous nature of unchecked desires. These truths are echoed in Psalm 106:15, “And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.” Psalm 78:29-31 further reveals, “So they did eat, and were well filled: for he gave them their own desire; They were not estranged from their lust. But while their meat was yet in their mouths, The wrath of God came upon them, and slew the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen men of Israel.” Sr. White further clarifies the purpose of this divine provision, stating, “God continued to feed the Hebrew host with the bread rained from heaven; but they were not satisfied. Their depraved appetites craved meat, which God in His wisdom had withheld, in a great degree, from them” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 148, 1938). Moreover, Sr. White elaborates on the swift judgment, “The Lord gave them flesh because they clamored for it, but it proved a curse to them” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 148, 1938). God’s provision was a corrective measure, demonstrating the harmful nature of their desires and rebellion. But how does the apostle Paul apply these ancient warnings to our modern struggles?

PAUL’S WARNING: LUST LEADS TO RUIN!

The apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthian church, draws a direct parallel between the experiences of ancient Israel and the challenges faced by us today. He warns, “Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted” (1 Corinthians 10:6). This verse is not merely a historical footnote; it’s a living admonition, a call to examine our own hearts and desires. Sr. White echoes this warning, stating, “The children of Israel would have flesh-meats, and said, as many now say, We shall die without meat. God gave rebellious Israel flesh, but His curse was with it. Thousands of them died while the meat they desired was between their teeth. We have the example of ancient Israel, and the warning for us not to do as they did.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, pp. 371, 372, 1870). This powerful statement connects the physical consequences experienced by Israel with the spiritual dangers we face when we prioritize our appetites over God’s revealed will. The lesson is clear: lust, in any form, is a destructive force that separates us from God and His blessings. It is a call to self-denial, to prove our faith through willing obedience, that our connection to God may be strenghtened. These truths are echoed in Colossians 3:5, “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” James 1:14 reinforces, “But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.” Sr. White emphasizes the ongoing relevance of this example, “The apostle Paul, speaking of Israel’s discontent, says: ‘And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread’” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 281, 1855). Furthermore, Sr. White directly connects this warning to health reform, “The controlling power of appetite will prove the ruin of thousands, when, if they had conquered on this point, they would have had moral power to gain the victory over every other temptation of Satan” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 561, 1875). This explicitly links the warning to the practical application of health principles in our lives. But what role does holiness play in safeguarding our physical and spiritual well-being?

HOLINESS QUEST: PURITY FOR BODY AND SOUL!

God’s dietary instructions to Israel were not arbitrary; they were integral to His plan to create a holy and healthy people, a nation set apart for His purposes. The call to holiness is reiterated throughout Scripture, as in Hebrews 12:14: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” This pursuit of holiness encompasses every aspect of our lives, including our physical health. Sr. White, a staunch advocate for health reform, unequivocally states, “The meat diet is a serious question. Shall human beings live on the flesh of dead animals? The answer, from the light that God has given, is, No, decidedly, no.” (Counsels on Health, p. 470, 1914). This is not a suggestion but a clear directive, rooted in the understanding that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. God’s love is not a permissive indulgence of our whims but a guiding force, leading us toward optimal well-being, both physically and spiritually. His laws, including those concerning diet, are expressions of His care, designed to protect us from harm and elevate us to a higher plane of existence. These truths are echoed in 1 Peter 1:15-16, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” Leviticus 11:44 adds, “For I am the LORD your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy: neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” Sr. White emphasizes the holistic nature of holiness, “True sanctification is an entire conformity to the will of God. Rebellious thoughts and feelings are overcome, and the voice of Jesus awakens a new life, which pervades the entire being” (The Sanctified Life, p. 9, 1889). Adding to the practical implications of this call, Sr. White states, “True sanctification means perfect love, perfect obedience, perfect conformity to the will of God” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 565, 1911). This connects holiness directly to practical service and obedience to God’s word, reinforcing that health reform is an integral part of true religion. But why does Scripture portray our bodies as sacred temples demanding vigilant care?

TEMPLE TRUST: HONOR GOD’S DWELLING!

The New Testament emphasizes the sacredness of our physical bodies, highlighting our responsibility to care for them as dwellings of the Holy Spirit. Paul’s question in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 is a powerful reminder: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” This profound truth underscores the intimate connection between our physical well-being and our spiritual life. We are not autonomous beings; we belong to God, purchased by the precious blood of Christ. Therefore, every choice we make, including our dietary choices, should reflect this sacred ownership. Sr. White reinforces this principle, quoting 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 57, 1938). This is not a call to legalistic adherence to rules but a loving invitation to live in harmony with God’s design, honoring Him in every aspect of our being. These truths are echoed in 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” Ephesians 2:21-22 adds, “In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Sr. White elaborates on the implications of being God’s temple, “The body is to be brought into subjection. The higher powers of the being are to rule. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 130, 1905). Furthermore, Sr. White connects this temple concept to our dietary choices, “Our bodies are Christ’s purchased possession, and we are not at liberty to do with them as we please” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 310, 1905). This clearly establishes temperance in diet as a divine requirement arising from the sacredness of our bodies as temples. But what deadly path does unchecked lust carve from desire to destruction?

LUST’S TRAP: DESIRE TO DEATH SPIRAL!

The book of James provides a stark warning about the progressive nature of lust, revealing its inevitable consequences. James 1:14-15 states, “But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” This passage lays bare the anatomy of temptation and sin, showing how unchecked desires, initially seemingly harmless, can escalate into destructive actions and ultimately lead to spiritual death. John echoes this in his epistle: “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 John 2:16-17). These verses highlight the transient nature of worldly desires and the eternal consequences of choosing them over God’s will. The story of Israel’s craving for flesh serves as a potent illustration of this principle: their lust, initially a simple desire, led to rebellion, judgment, and death. These truths are echoed in Ephesians 4:22, “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts.” Colossians 3:5 adds, “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” Sr. White underscores the deceptive power of lust, “Temptation begins in desire; and desire, like a spark of fire, kindles into a flame that consumes all before it” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 459, 1890). Furthermore, Sr. White warns of the cumulative effect of indulging lust, “Every indulgence of base passion weakens the soul’s higher powers” (The Signs of the Times, January 6, 1881). This highlights the progressive spiritual decline that results from giving way to lustful desires, ultimately leading to corruption. But what powerful remedy counters lust by reshaping our deepest longings?

DELIGHT DIVINE: GOD TRANSFORMS CRAVINGS!

The antidote to the destructive power of lust is found in cultivating a genuine delight in God and His ways. Psalm 37:4 exhorts us, “Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” This verse does not promise the fulfillment of every selfish whim, but rather a transformation of our desires. When our hearts are truly aligned with God’s will, our desires will reflect His character, leading us to seek what is good, pure, and pleasing to Him. This transformation is not a passive process; it requires intentional cultivation of our relationship with God through prayer, study of His Word, and obedience to His commands. It is in this intimate communion with God that we find true satisfaction, a joy that surpasses any fleeting pleasure the world can offer. As we delight in Him, our cravings for the “flesh pots of Egypt” will diminish, replaced by a hunger and thirst for righteousness. These truths are echoed in Psalm 34:8, “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.” Isaiah 58:11 adds, “And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” Sr. White emphasizes the transformative power of delighting in God, “The more we know of God, the more intense will be our happiness” (The Desire of Ages, p. 331, 1898). Furthermore, Sr. White connects this delight to spiritual growth, “As we dwell upon our own imperfections, we shall come to view Christ in His fullness. We shall behold Him who is the chiefest among ten thousand, the One altogether lovely” (The Signs of the Times, April 28, 1890). This illustrates that genuine delight in God diminishes the allure of worldly temptations and strengthens our spiritual resistance to lust. But how do these ancient lessons reveal the depth of God’s loving care?

GOD’S LOVE: LAWS AS LOVING GUIDES!

The dietary restrictions and the provision of manna in the wilderness were not arbitrary acts of a demanding God, but rather expressions of profound love and care for His people. God, knowing the long-term consequences of unhealthy practices, provided what was best for their physical and spiritual well-being, even when it was not what they initially desired. 1 Peter 1:16 proclaims: “Be ye holy; for I am holy.” This wasn’t a demand, but an invitation to a higher form of living, a mirror of His own character. Sr. White beautifully summarizes this concept: “God’s love is expressed in His justice no less than in His mercy. He is the author of the moral law and also of the plan of redemption. Those who refuse to conform to the requirements of God insult their Maker and bring ruin upon themselves.” (Signs of the Times, March 24, 1881). This highlights that God’s laws, including those related to diet, are not burdens but safeguards, designed to protect us from harm and lead us to a life of wholeness and joy. His love is not a permissive indulgence but a guiding hand, leading us toward our highest good. These truths are echoed in John 14:15, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” Deuteronomy 7:9 adds, “Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations.” Sr. White reinforces God’s love in health reform, “The laws governing the physical nature are as truly divine as any of the precepts of the Decalogue” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 146, 1905). Furthermore, Sr. White connects God’s laws to our well-being, “God has given us these things that we may obey His laws in our physical being, and be fitted to stand in His presence holy and undefiled” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 352, 1870). Obeying God’s commands is not a hardship, but a natural outflow of love for Him. But what personal duties arise from embracing this divine love?

Recognizing God’s love and wisdom in His instructions regarding our physical and spiritual well-being, my responsibility is to live a life of grateful obedience. This means consciously choosing to honor Him in every aspect of my life, including my dietary choices. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds me: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” This understanding calls for a deliberate rejection of harmful practices and an embrace of habits that promote health and holiness. Sr. White puts it succinctly: “It is our duty to understand and obey the principles of health reform. We should study the relation of our habits of life to our spiritual welfare.” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 70, 1938). This is not merely a suggestion but a solemn responsibility. It requires self-discipline, prayerful consideration, and a willingness to align my will with God’s, trusting that His way is always best, even when it challenges my ingrained habits and desires. I am to walk in the newness of life. These truths are echoed in Galatians 5:25, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Philippians 2:13 adds, “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Sr. White emphasizes the personal nature of this responsibility, “Every one who claims to be a servant of God is called to do His service as if each were a solitary worker for the Lord” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 220, 1909). Adding to the call for action, she states, “We are individually responsible for our course of action” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 360, 1870). Our primary duty is to fear God and obey His commandments, encompassing all areas of life. But how does this individual commitment extend to caring for the community around us?

My responsibility extends beyond personal obedience to encompass a loving concern for the well-being of others, sharing the light of truth with compassion and understanding. I am called to be an example of the transformative power of God’s grace, demonstrating the benefits of a life lived in harmony with His principles. This is not about imposing my beliefs on others, but about sharing the blessings I have received in a way that is winsome and inviting. Sr. White emphasizes this: “We should be so closely connected with the Source of all light that we can be channels to transmit light to others. We should become intelligent in regard to the principles of health reform, and in this way we can do much to enlighten those with whom we associate.” (Counsels on Health, p. 452, 1914). This requires sensitivity, wisdom, and a genuine love for others, recognizing that true influence comes not from coercion but from living a life that reflects the love and grace of God. We are to show the world how we live. These truths are echoed in Galatians 6:2, “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” Philippians 2:4 adds, “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” Sr. White further encourages us to be examples, “Let the principles of health reform be interwoven with the gospel ministry” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 144, 1905). Moreover, Sr. White highlights the importance of educating others, “Health reform is to be taught and practiced by our people” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, p. 161, 1909). We are to actively and intentionally share the principles of health reform as an integral part of our gospel message, using various avenues to enlighten others. But will we heed these lessons and stand faithful as the end approaches?

FAITHFUL FINALE: PREPARE FOR ETERNITY!

The journey of Israel through the wilderness, marked by their murmuring, their craving for flesh, and the consequences of their disobedience, serves as a powerful and timeless lesson for us today. These accounts are not mere historical anecdotes; they are living messages, urging us to examine our own hearts, our desires, and our commitment to God. As we approach the second coming of Christ, we are called to a higher standard of living, a life of holiness and consecration. The choice is ours, and the consequences are eternal. Let us, therefore, embrace the principles of health reform, not as a legalistic burden, but as a loving invitation to experience the fullness of life that God intends for us. These truths are echoed in Matthew 25:21, “His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” Luke 12:42-43 adds, “And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.” Sr. White poignantly connects faithfulness to our eternal destiny, “Faithfulness in little things qualifies us for higher trusts” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 22, 1872). Furthermore, Sr. White stresses the urgency of this call, “We are now in the time of preparation for the great crisis that is before us” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 711, 1889). We must be vigilant and faithful, lest we be caught unprepared for Christ’s return. But can we find hope amidst warnings in Israel’s story of mercy and renewal?

HOPE RENEWED: TRANSFORM THROUGH GRACE!

The story of Israel’s murmuring in the wilderness is a cautionary tale, but it is also a story of hope. It reveals a God who is both just and merciful, a God who disciplines those He loves, guiding them toward a better way. We are entrusted with the sacred task of sharing these truths with the world, not as condemnatory pronouncements, but as a message of hope and transformation. Let us, therefore, commit ourselves to living out these principles in our own lives, becoming living examples of the power of God’s grace to overcome temptation, transform desires, and lead us into a life of abundant health and holiness. This is our calling, our privilege, and our profound responsibility. These truths are echoed in Romans 12:2, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Ephesians 4:23-24 adds, “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” Sr. White encapsulates the hope of transformation, “Through the power of Christ, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure” (The Desire of Ages, p. 258, 1898). Concluding with a call to action, she urges, “The grace of Christ must mold the entire being, and its triumph will not be complete until the heavenly universe shall witness habitual tenderness of feeling, Christlike love, and holy deeds in the deportment of the children of God” (The Signs of the Times, November 21, 1900).

Titus 2:11-12, KJV: “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;”

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