Living In The Light

January 26, Shall We Not Die To Self?

We love Him because He first loved us.
—1 John 4:19 LL 32.1

How great the love of God is! God made the world to enlarge heaven. He desired a larger family. And before human beings were created, God and Christ entered into a covenant that if they fell from their allegiance, Christ would bear the penalty of transgression. Humankind fell but was not left to the power of the destroyer. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” To the Redeemer was given all power to impart to fallen human beings for their benefit and blessing. LL 32.2

While on this earth, the Savior was sorely tried. He was tempted in all points like as we are. He poured out His soul with strong crying and tears as He looked upon the backslidden condition of the people He had brought out of bondage. He saw them full of pride and self-exaltation, full of selfishness and covetousness. All this He must labor to overcome. He must live among them the life that God requires all His children to live. He must stand free from the slightest taint of impurity. Not in the least particular must He deviate from the principles of righteousness. LL 32.3

The gulf made by sin has been bridged. All may come boldly to the throne of grace, seeking help in every time of need. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. He took the place of the sinner, that He might present the repentant sinner to the Father, saying, “Lay his guilt on me. I have espoused his cause.” Holding out His hands, bearing the marks of His crucifixion, the Savior says, “I have graven that sinner upon the palms of my hands. No longer look upon him as guilty. Let him stand before thee guiltless; for I have borne his iniquity.” At the cross, justice and mercy met together, and righteousness and peace kissed each other. God bowed His head in recognition of the completeness of the offering made for sin, and said, “It is enough.” LL 32.4

As we contemplate the great love of God, shall not our hearts be subdued and softened, yea, broken? Shall we not be filled with patience, long-suffering, and love? Shall we not die to self? LL 32.5

Christ came to this world to reveal the love of God. His followers are to continue the work which He began.— Review and Herald, June 25, 1908. LL 32.6

Further Reflection: How does the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross soften and subdue the human heart? LL 32.7