Study the Pattern

Now in the establishment and broadening of the work in this country, means will be essential, that we may do a large work in a short time. And the only way we can do it is, in every movement, to keep the eye single to the glory of God, so that it may not be said of us, They began to build, and were not able to finish. In leading out to do a broader work, we need, at the very beginning, to put pride and worldly ambition entirely out of our hearts. Having before us the example of Christ, the greatest Teacher the world ever knew, we need not make a mistake. “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” We must study the Pattern, and inquire at every step, “Is this the way of the Lord?” We shall certainly make grave mistakes if we do not keep self-denial and self-sacrifice prominent before the people in every movement.TM 178.1

The work in this missionary field is yet in its infancy. The believers have made only a beginning in the Christian life; and the reason why we have felt so great a burden for this people is, that henceforth they may learn greater things. It doth not yet appear what they shall be through a practical belief in the truth and the sanctification of the entire being by the truth. The words and example of our Redeemer in His life of humility and self-denial will be the light and strength of His people if they follow Jesus fully, trusting in Him at every step. Let it be the language of our hearts, “Be Thou my pattern.” He that “willeth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.” Nothing is so desirable as to live as Christ lived, to deny self as Christ denied Himself, and to labor with Him in seeking to save that which is lost.TM 178.2