The great work for us as Christians is not to criticise the character and motives of others, but to closely examine our own heart and life, to jealously guard ourselves against the suggestions of Satan. We should bear in mind that it is not the hearers of the law that are justified before God, but the doers of the law. If the principles of God’s law rule in our hearts, we shall have the spirit of Christ; we shall manifest in our daily life that mercy which is better than sacrifice. Every Christian must be a learner in the school of Christ; and there is need of diligent and persevering effort to reach that standard of righteousness which God’s word requires. Every one has a work to do to learn the lessons of justice, humility, patience, purity, and love. These traits of character are more precious in the sight of our Lord than offerings of gold or silver. They are more acceptable to him than the most costly sacrifice. {LP 232.2}

Det store arbejde vi , som kristne har, er ikke at kritisere andres karakter og motiver, men nøje ransage vore egne hjerter og liv, og nidkært vogte os selv imod Satans antydninger. Vi bør have i sinde at det er ikke kun lovens hørere som retfærdiggøres over for Gud, men lovens gørere. Hvis principperne i Guds lov hersker i vore hjerter, skal vi få Kristi ånd; skal vi manifiestere den nåde i det daglige liv, som er bedre end offer. Enhver kristen må være elev i Kristi skole; og der er behov for flittige og udholdende anstrengelser for at nå den retfærdighedsstandard som Guds ord forlanger. Enhver har et arbejde med at lære retfærdighedens, ydmyghedens, tålmodighedens, renhedens og kærlighedens lektier. Disse karaktertræk er mere dyrebare i Herrens øjne end guld- eller sølvofre. De er mere antagelige for ham end det dyrebareste offer.