The Great Hope (Adapted)

Direct Access to God

Every step of faith and obedience brings the believer into closer connection with the Light of the World. The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shine on the servants of God, and they are to reflect His rays. The stars tell us that there is a light in heaven whose glory makes them bright. In the same way, Christians reveal to the world that there is a God on the throne whose character is worthy of praise and imitation. The holiness of His character will be visible in His witnesses. GrH_a 29.4

Through the merits of Christ we have access to the throne of Infinite Power. “He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Jesus says: “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” “If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.” “Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” (Romans 8:32; Luke 11:13; John 14:14; 16:24.) GrH_a 29.5

It is the privilege of all to live in such a way that God will approve and bless them. It is not the will of our heavenly Father for us always to live in condemnation and darkness. It is not true humility if we go around with our heads bowed down and our hearts filled with thoughts of self. We may go to Jesus and be cleansed and stand before the law without shame and remorse. GrH_a 29.6

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “He is not ashamed to call them brethren.” The Christian’s life should be one of faith, victory, and joy in God. “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (Hebrews 2:11; Nehemiah 8:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.) GrH_a 29.7

These things are the fruits of Bible conversion and sanctification. It is only because people treat the great principles of righteousness shown in the law with such indifference that these fruits are so rare. This is why we see so little of that deep, lasting work of the Spirit that used to accompany revivals. GrH_a 29.8

It is by beholding that we become changed. As people have neglected those sacred commandments in which God has revealed the perfection and holiness of His character, and their minds have been attracted to human teachings and theories, a decline of holy living in the church has followed. Only when the law of God is restored to its rightful position can a revival of authentic faith and godliness take place among His professed people. GrH_a 30.1