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Riveted to the Rock

In our character building we must build on Christ. He is the sure foundation--a foundation which can never be moved. The tempest of temptation and trial cannot move the building which is riveted to the Eternal Rock. Child Guidance, page 166

When men who have indulged in wrong habits and sinful practices yield to the power of divine truth, the application of that truth to the heart revives the moral powers, which had seemed to be paralyzed. The receiver possesses stronger, clearer understanding than before he riveted his soul to the eternal Rock. Even his physical health improves by the realization of his security in Christ. The special blessing of God resting upon the receiver is of itself health and strength. Counsels on Health, page 28

Unless those who receive the truth are thoroughly converted, unless there is a radical change in the life and character, unless the soul is riveted to the eternal Rock, they will not endure the test of trial. After the minister leaves and the novelty has worn off, the truth loses its power to charm, and they exert no holier influence than before. Evangelism, page 322

As the truth is brought into practical life, the standard is to be elevated higher and higher, to meet the requirements of the Bible.

This will necessitate opposition to the fashions, customs, practices, and maxims of the world. Worldly influences, like the waves of the sea, beat against the followers of Christ to sweep them away from the true principles of the meekness and grace of Christ; but they are to stand as firm as a rock to principle.

It will require moral courage to do this, and those whose souls are not riveted to the eternal Rock, will be swept away by the worldly current. We can stand firm only as our life is hid with Christ in God.

Moral independence will be wholly in place when opposing the world. By conforming entirely to the will of God, we shall be placed upon vantage ground, and shall see the necessity of decided separation from the customs and practices of the world. We are not to elevate our standard just a little above the world's standard; but we are to make the line of demarcation decidedly apparent. Fundamentals of Christian Education, page 288

When Nicodemus came to Jesus, Christ laid before him the conditions of divine life, teaching him the very alphabet of conversion.

Nicodemus asked, "How can these things be?" "Art thou a master of Israel," Christ answered, "and knowest not these things?"

This question might be addressed to many who are holding positions of responsibility as teachers, but who have neglected the work essential for them to do before they were qualified to be teachers.

If Christ's words were received into the soul, there would be a much higher intelligence, and a much deeper spiritual knowledge of what constitutes one a disciple and a sincere follower of Christ.

The Lord will not accept a heartless service, a round of ceremonies that are really Christless. His children must be lively stones in God's building. If all would give themselves unreservedly to God, if they would cease to study and plan for their amusement, for excursions, and pleasure-loving associations, and would study the words, "Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's," they would never hunger or thirst for excitement or change. If it is for our true interest to be spiritual and if the salvation of our people depends on our being riveted on the Eternal Rock, would we not better be engaged in seeking for that which will hold the whole building to the chief corner stone, that we may not be confused and confounded in our faith. Fundamentals of Christian Education, page 461

Luther's prayer was heard. His courage and faith returned as he met his enemies. There he stood, meek as a lamb, surrounded by the great men of the earth. Like angry wolves they fastened their eyes upon him, hoping to awe him with their power and greatness. He had taken hold of the strength of God, and feared not. His words were spoken with such majesty and power his enemies could do nothing against him. God was speaking through Luther. And he had brought together emperors, and professed wise men, that he might publicly bring to naught their wisdom, and that they all might see the strength and firmness of feeble man who is leaning upon God, his eternal rock. Spiritual Gifts. Volume 4B, page 120

When the test and trial comes to every soul,

there will be apostasies.

Traitors, heady, highminded and self-sufficient men

will turn away from the truth,

making shipwreck of their faith.

Why?

Because they did not dig deep, and make their foundation sure.

They were not riveted to the eternal Rock.

When the words of the Lord,

through His chosen messengers, are brought to them,

they murmur and think the way is made too strait.

Like those who were thought to be the disciples of Christ,

but who were displeased by His words,

and walked no more with Him,

they will turn away from Christ.

Fundamentals of Christian Education, page 459

Sing the Old Song!!

The Lord's our Rock, in Him we hide,

A shelter in the time of storm;

Secure whatever may betide,