Counsel #11 — Sin And Free-Will

Picture: Counsel #11 — Sin And Free-WillCSL 101.1

The power of choice is paramount in human existence. Our ability to choose dictates the course of our lives. God’s character of love necessitates each person being created with this power, yet because of our sinful nature we are incapable of altering our hearts or spontaneously loving Him. However, by surrendering our minds to God, we invite His guidance and He aligns our thoughts with His divine nature, giving us the desire to serve Him. Many yearn for a Christian life but fail to make a conscious decision to follow Christ. When we make this crucial choice the Holy Spirit radically transforms our lives. As we commit ourselves to God, we receive His immense power to keep us faithful. Daily surrender enables us to continually embrace a new life characterized by faith.^{[117]https://adventistreview.org/magazine-article/not-my-will-but-gods/}CSL 101.2

At the close of probation, the Holy Spirit leaves those who reject Him, ending their chance to choose God;^{[118]See Revelation 22:11} believers, however, will retain His power, choosing to overcome sin throughout eternity.CSL 101.3

“Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.” Joshua 24:15 NKJVCSL 101.4

“Every one should be taught to cherish hope and faith; but even when we give ourselves to Christ and know that He accepts us, we are not beyond the reach of temptation. God's Word declares, 'Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried' (Daniel 12:10). Only he who endures the trial will receive the crown of life (James 1:12)." Ellen White in Christ's Object Lessons, p. 155 (emphasis supplied).CSL 101.5

Reflect: What does it mean to "choose" to serve God? How does this differ from simply believing in God?CSL 101.6