Those who were waiting to make themselves more worthy of divine favor before they ventured to claim the promises of God, were making a fatal mistake. Jesus alone cleanses from sin; He only can forgive our transgressions. He has pledged Himself to listen to the petition and grant the prayer of those who come to Him in faith. Many have a vague idea that they must make some wonderful effort in order to gain the favor of God. But all self-dependence is vain. It is only by connecting with Jesus through faith that the sinner becomes a hopeful, believing child of God. {LS 22.3}

Dem som ventede på at gøre sig selv mere dyrebare i guddommelig gunst før de vovede at kræve Guds løfter, gjorde en skæbnesvanger fejltagelse. Jesus alene renser fra synd; han alene kan tilgive vore overtrædelser. Han har lovet sig selv at lytte til begæringen og tilstå deres bøn som kommer til ham i tro. Mange har en uklar forestilling om at de må gøre nogle forunderlige anstrengelser for at opnå Guds gunst. Men al selvstændighed i karakter er frugtesløs. (23) Det er kun ved forbindelse med Jesus, gennem tro, at synderen bliver et håbefuldt og troende barn af Gud.