Guiding Principles for the Young

Purposefulness

But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank. Daniel 1:8. PH036 4.5

A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. Proverbs 18:16. PH036 4.6

High and holy must be the purpose of everyone who obtains the character all must obtain who win the crown of everlasting life.—Signs of the Times, June 20, 1900. PH036 4.7

Many desire the good, they make some effort to obtain it; but they do not choose it; they have not a settled purpose to secure it at the cost of all things.—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 191. PH036 4.8

Remember that you will never reach a higher standard than you yourself set. Then set your mark high, and step by step, even though it be by painful effort, by self-denial and sacrifice, ascend the whole length of the ladder of progress. Let nothing hinder you. Fate has not woven its meshes about any human being so firmly that he need remain helpless and in uncertainty. Opposing circumstances should create a firm determination to overcome them. The breaking down of one barrier will give greater ability and courage to go forward. Press with determination in the right direction, and circumstances will be your helpers, not your hindrances.—Christ's Object Lessons, 331, 332. PH036 4.9

Only let the truth of this time be cordially received, and become the basis of character, and it will produce steadfastness of purpose which the allurements of pleasure, the fickleness of custom, the contempt of the world-loving, and the heart's clamors for self-indulgence are powerless to influence.—Testimonies for the Church 5:13. PH036 5.1

Trust in God, and seek to move from principle, strengthened and ennobled by high resolves and a determination of purpose found only in God.—Testimonies for the Church 2:313. PH036 5.2

It is purity of heart, singleness of purpose, that constitutes the true value of human beings.—The Review and Herald, October 6, 1891. PH036 5.3

He uses his gifts best who seeks by earnest endeavor to carry out the Lord's great plan for the uplifting of humanity, remembering always that he must be a learner as well as a teacher.—The Youth's Instructor, December 11, 1902. PH036 5.4

From Jesus’ earliest years he was possessed of one purpose. He lived to bless others.—The Desire of Ages, 70. PH036 5.5

The heaven-appointed purpose of giving the gospel to the world in this generation is the noblest that can appeal to any human being.... The whole world is opening to the gospel.—Education, 262. PH036 5.6

You may cultivate your powers to do the very best of service, and then you will find yourself in demand anywhere. You will be appreciated for what you are worth.—Special Testimony. PH036 5.7