146
Counsels on Diet and Foods
His Spirit to search the Scriptures, even with fasting and with prayer,
until link after link is searched out, and united in a perfect chain.
Every fact which immediately concerns the salvation of souls will
be made so clear that none need err, or walk in darkness.—
Testimonies
for the Church 2:692, 1870
300. Difficult points of present truth have been reached by the
earnest efforts of a few who were devoted to the work. Fasting and
fervent prayer to God have moved the Lord to unlock His treasuries of
truth to their understanding.—
Testimonies for the Church 2:650, 651,
1870
301. Those who sincerely desire truth will not be reluctant to
lay open their positions for investigation and criticism, and will not
be annoyed if their opinions and ideas are crossed. This was the
spirit cherished among us forty years ago. We would come together
burdened in soul, praying that we might be one in faith and doctrine;
for we knew that Christ is not divided. One point at a time was made
the subject of investigation. Solemnity characterized these councils of
investigation. The Scriptures were opened with a sense of awe. Often
we fasted, that we might be better fitted to understand the truth.—[
The
Review and Herald, July 26, 1892
] L. & T. 47
When Special Divine Help Is Needed
302. For certain things, fasting and prayer are recommended and
appropriate. In the hand of God they are a means of cleansing the heart
[188]
and promoting a receptive frame of mind. We obtain answers to our
prayers because we humble our souls before God.—
Letter 73, 1896
303. It is in the order of God that those who bear responsibilities
should often meet together to counsel with one another and to pray
earnestly for that wisdom which He alone can impart. Unitedly make
known your troubles to God. Talk less; much precious time is lost
in talk that brings no light. Let brethren unite in fasting and prayer
for the wisdom that God has promised to supply liberally.—
Gospel
Workers, 236, 1892
(old edition)
304. Whenever it is necessary for the advancement of the cause
of truth and the glory of God, that an opponent be met, how carefully,
and with what humility, should they [
The advocates of truth
] go into
the conflict. With heart searching, confession of sin, and earnest