We must turn away from a thousand topics that invite attention. There are matters that consume time and arouse inquiry, but end in nothing. The highest interests of the soul demand the close attention and energy that are often given to comparatively insignificant things. Accepting new theories does not in itself bring new life to the soul. Even an acquaintance with facts and theories important in themselves is of little value unless put to practical use. We need to feel our responsibility to give our souls food that will nourish and stimulate spiritual life.MHH 265.3

“Incline your ear to wisdom, ...
Apply your heart to understanding; ...
Seek her as silver, ...
Search for her as for hidden treasures;
Then you will understand the fear of the Lord,
And find the knowledge of God. ...
Then you will understand righteousness and justice,
Equity and every good path.
When wisdom enters your heart,
And knowledge is pleasant to your soul,
Discretion will preserve you;
Understanding will keep you.”
Wisdom “is a tree of life to those who take hold of her,
And happy are all who retain her.”
Proverbs 2:2-11; 3:18.MHH 265.4

The question for us to study is, “What is truth—the truth that is to be cherished, loved, honored, and obeyed?” The devotees of science have been defeated and disheartened in their efforts to find out God. What they need to inquire at this time is, “What is the truth that will enable us to win the salvation of our souls?”MHH 265.5

“What do you think of Christ?”—this is the all-important question. Do you receive Him as a personal Savior? To all who receive Him He gives power to become children of God.MHH 266.1

Christ revealed God to His disciples in a way that performed in their hearts a special work, such as He desires to do in our hearts. There are many who, in dwelling too largely upon theory, have lost sight of the living power of the Savior’s example. They have lost sight of Him as the humble, self-denying worker. What they need is to behold Jesus. Daily we need the fresh revealing of His presence. We need to follow more closely His example of self-renunciation and self-sacrifice.MHH 266.2

We need the experience that Paul had when he wrote: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.MHH 266.3

The knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ expressed in character is an exaltation above everything else that is esteemed on earth or in heaven. It is the very highest education. It is the key that opens the portals of the heavenly city. This knowledge it is God’s purpose that all who put on Christ shall possess.MHH 266.4

The Need of Self-renunciation

Chapter 39—The Knowledge Received Through God’s Word