We should also keep in mind that we have a wily foe to contend with, one that is constantly seeking to draw us away from God, but we should be determined that we will be the Lord's. We must not be discouraged and give up, but repent, and thus be represented as the good seed that fell upon good ground. We cannot expect instantaneous sanctification, but we must grow like the grain, as represented by Christ--first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain--and thus perfect a Christian character. We must become intelligent and earnest to know what our duty is and then walk in obedience to God's holy will. {3MR 68.1}
Our natural heart has to be subdued and we will find that it is an everyday work. The promise is to the overcomer, and as we gain an experience on one point it will strengthen us for the duties that follow, and as we thus draw nigh to God, angels will draw nigh to us to strengthen us for our duty. If temptations come they will prove beneficial if resisted, because we shall learn to fly to Christ for help, and then we shall gain an experience that will fit us for eternal life. {3MR 68.2}
As God looks upon the wicked cities He is grieved to see the masses turning a deaf ear to His requirements, but when men do walk in harmony with His will, then He will open new beauties and thus educate the mind how best to serve its Creator. We must keep our eye upon Jesus, the perfect Pattern, and if we do so we shall not be spiritual dwarfs. We must obtain knowledge of ourselves and depart from everything that is not like the perfect Pattern. This can be accomplished by a constant effort and by having our conversation in heaven. 3MR 68
It is Satan's work to discourage the soul; it is Christ's work to inspire with faith and hope. DA 249
When He came to the place, He said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” Luke 22:40 (New King James Version)