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“Keep Thyself Pure”, November 27
Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Matthew 5:8
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To know what constitutes purity of mind, soul, and body is the highest
class of education. Paul the apostle sums up in his letter to Timothy the
attainments possible for him, by saying “Keep thyself pure.”
It is the special work of Satan in these last days to take possession
of the minds of the youth, to corrupt their thoughts, and inflame their
passions. All are free moral agents, and as such they must bring their
thoughts to run in the right channel.... If Satan seeks to divert the mind
to low and sensual things, bring it back again, and place it on eternal
things; and when the Lord sees the determined effort made to retain only
pure thoughts, He will attract the mind, like the magnet, and purify the
thoughts.... The first work of those who would reform is to purify the
imagination. If the mind is led out in a vicious direction, it must be
restrained to dwell only upon pure and elevated subjects. When tempted
to yield to a corrupt imagination, then flee to the throne of grace, and pray
for strength from Heaven. In the strength of God the imagination can be
disciplined to dwell upon things which are pure and heavenly....
Those who would have that wisdom which is from God, must become
fools in the sinful knowledge of this age, in order to be wise. They should
shut their eyes, that they may see and learn no evil. They should close
their ears, lest they hear that which is evil, and obtain that knowledge
which would stain their purity of thoughts and acts. And they should
guard their tongues, lest they utter corrupt communications, and guile be
found in their mouths. All are accountable for their actions while upon
probation in this world. All have power to control their actions. If they are
weak in virtue and purity of thoughts and acts, they can obtain help from
the Friend of the helpless. Jesus is acquainted with all the weaknesses of
human nature, and if entreated, will give strength to overcome the most
powerful temptations. All can obtain this strength if they seek for it in
humility.
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