n the greatest danger of
falling under the power of satanic delusions and the decree to compel the
conscience. And even if they endure the test, they will be plunged into
deeper distress and anguish in the time of trouble, because they have
never made it a habit to trust in God. The lessons of faith which they
have neglected, they will be forced to learn under a terrible pressure of
discouragement.

We should now acquaint ourselves with God by proving His promises. Angels
record every prayer that is earnest and sincere. We should rather dispense
with selfish gratifications than neglect communion with God. The deepest
poverty, the greatest self-denial, with His approval, is better than
riches, honors, ease, and friendship without it. We must take time to
pray. If we allow our minds to be absorbed by worldly interests, the Lord
may give us time by removing from us our idols of gold, of houses, or of
fertile lands.

The young would not be seduced into sin if they would refuse to enter any
path save that upon which they could ask God's blessing. If the messengers
who bear the last solemn warning to the world would pray for the blessing
of God, not in a cold, listless, lazy manner, but fervently and in faith,
as did Jacob, they would find many places where they could say, "I have
seen God face to face, and my life is preserved."(1061) They would be
accounted of heaven as princes, having power to prevail with God and with
men.

The "time of trouble such as never was," is soon to open upon us; and we
shall need an experience which we do not now possess, and which many are
too indolent to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in
anticipation that in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before
us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal.
In that time of trial, every soul must stand for himself before God.
"Though Noah, Daniel, and Job" were in the land, "as I live, saith the
Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but
deliver their own souls by their righteousness."(1062)

Now, while our great High Priest is making the atonement for us, we should
seek to become perfect in Christ. Not even by a thought could our Saviour
be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in human
hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire is
cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But
Christ declared of Himself