Manuscript Releases, vol. 6 [Nos. 347-418]

MR No. 362—Looking to Jesus

The Lord has a work for each one to do. We are to find out for ourselves what this work is, that we may have the assurance that we are working under the authority of God, as his appointed agencies. No one is excusable for remaining in ignorance. Every man should know his post of duty. He should stand in his lot and in his place, working unselfishly, earnestly, devotedly, with an eye single to the glory of God. 6MR 119.1

The instruction given by Christ is clear and easy to be understood. It is the duty of every soul to understand for himself his appointed work. He is not to grope his way along in darkness and uncertainty, depending on human guidance. Christ has said, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” 6MR 119.2

Let God's workmen feel that every hour they are in need of divine guidance. Those who have not been looking to Jesus, inquiring, “Is this the way of the Lord?” should commence at once to do this. We are daily to realize that God has given us a part in his great work, and that he expects us to act intelligently. We are not to try to get up something new and singular, something odd and strange, in order to create a sensation. We are to be perfectly content to give the instruction Christ has given. 6MR 119.3

Let each one in the service of Christ feel the need of his grace. As we study his lessons, line upon line, precept upon precept, we shall gain from them encouragement and strength. Do not seek to rise above the simplicity of Christ. Make him your pattern, your confidant. In your simplicity lies your safety. When you strive to rise above the meekness and lowliness of the Saviour, you are weakness itself. Remember that you are to advance in the path which Christ has marked out for you. He says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” 6MR 119.4

The uncultivated, non-producing wastes in the Lord's vineyard are a sad testimony to unfaithful service. The Lord's voice is heard, calling, “Go, work today in my vineyard.” Self-denial and self-sacrifice are to be brought into the daily experience of those who work for the Master. Then the parts of the Lord's vineyard which are now so barren and unproductive will be sown with the seeds of truth. Souls will be won to Christ. 6MR 120.1

Every servant of God is to be guided by the Holy Spirit. It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. Our path, however rugged it may be, is marked out for us by the Lord; and in it we must walk. We must believe in Christ as a personal, sympathizing Saviour. He loves us and gave himself for us. He doeth all things well.... 6MR 120.2

Some to whom conviction comes refuse to change their way of life, because to change would be an acknowledgment that they had been wrong. To them the conviction is useless. They do not allow it to work in them true reformation. In order to repent, the sinner must see himself as he is. He must realize that by following wrong principles he has marred the work God has given him to do. When he is willing to see in God's light all that the Lord presents to him, he will be filled with shame, distress, and humiliation. Then God will come to his relief. He will be led to look to Jesus, and, beholding the sacredness of the Saviour's office and the perfection of his character, he will humble himself before him, filled with remorse to think that in working against his own spiritual health and the spiritual health of others, he has worked against Christ. As he looks into the Word as into a mirror and sees his character as it is, he abhors himself. 6MR 120.3

It is Christ who searches the hearts and tries the reins of the children of men. All things are naked and open before the eyes of Him with whom we have to do, neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight.... 6MR 121.1

In Christ divinity and humanity are united; therefore he is able to succor all who are tempted, able to save to the uttermost all who come to God by him. He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Though so high and holy, he pities our weakness, and stoops to succor us; for it pleased the Lord to bruise him.... 6MR 121.2

“We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” 6MR 121.3

In order that no one need make a mistake in his lifework, God has placed before us the perfect example of Christ.—Manuscript 42, 1901, 1-3, 8-10. (“Revealing the Christlikeness,” June 2, 1901.) 6MR 121.4

Released March 7, 1974.