We see danger in the bestowal of rich gifts or of words of commendation upon human agencies. Those who are favored by the Lord need to be on guard constantly, lest pride or self-esteem obtain the supremacy. He who has an unusual following, he who has received words of commendation from the Lord, needs the special prayers of God’s faithful watchmen, that he may be shielded from the danger of cherishing thoughts of self-esteem and spiritual pride. Never is such a man to manifest self-importance, or attempt to act as a dictator or a ruler. Faithfully should his brethren warn him of his dangers; for, if left to himself, he will surely make mistakes, and reveal human frailties.{3BC 1131.7}

Vi ser en fare i at give rige gaver eller rosværdige ord på menneskeagenter. Dem som Herren begunstiger behøver hele tiden at være på vagt, for at stolthed eller selvværd ikke får overmagt. Han som bliver fulgt usædvanligt op, han som har fået fordømmende fra Herren, behøver særlige bønner fra Guds trofaste vagtfolk, så han kan beskyttes fra at tænke selvagtværdigt og åndelig stolthed. Aldrig skal et sådant menneske udvise selvagtværdighed,, eller prøve at handle som diktater eller en hersker. Hans brødre bør trofast advare ham for hans farer; for overlades han til sig selv, vil han visselig gøre fejltagelser, og afsløre menneskelig skrøbelighed.