The Great Controversy - Ellen G. White | Page 369

having openly expressed unbelief , they feel that they must maintain their position . Thus they unite with the ungodly and close to themselves the gates of Paradise .
God has given in His word sufficient evidence of its divine character . The great truths which concern our redemption are clearly presented . By the aid of the Holy Spirit , which is promised to all who seek it in sincerity , every man may understand these truths for himself . God has granted to men a strong foundation upon which to rest their faith . Yet the finite minds of men are inadequate fully to comprehend the plans and purposes of the Infinite One . We can never by searching find out God . We must not attempt to lift with presumptuous hand the curtain behind which He veils His majesty . The apostle exclaims : " How unsearchable are His judgments , and His ways past finding out !" Romans 11:33 . We can so far comprehend His dealings with us , and the motives by which He is actuated , that we may discern boundless love and mercy united to infinite power . Our Father in heaven orders everything in wisdom and righteousness , and we are not to be dissatisfied and distrustful , but to bow in reverent submission . He will reveal to us as much of His purposes as it is for our good to know , and beyond that we must trust the Hand that is omnipotent , the Heart that is full of love .
While God has given ample evidence for faith , He will never remove all excuse for unbelief . All who look for hooks to hang their doubts upon will find them . And those who refuse to accept and obey God ' s word until every objection has been removed , and there is no longer an opportunity for doubt , will never come to the light . Distrust of God is the natural outgrowth of the unrenewed heart , which is at enmity with Him . But faith is inspired by the Holy Spirit , and it will flourish only as it is cherished . No man can become strong in faith without a determined effort . Unbelief strengthens as it is encouraged ; and if men , instead of dwelling upon the evidences which God has given to sustain their faith , permit themselves to question and cavil , they will find their doubts constantly becoming more confirmed .
But those who doubt God ' s promises and distrust the assurance of His grace are dishonoring Him ; and their influence , instead of drawing others to Christ , tends to repel them from Him . They are unproductive trees , that spread their dark branches far and wide , shutting away the sunlight from other plants , and causing them to droop and die under the chilling shadow . The lifework of these persons will appear as a never-ceasing witness against them . They are sowing seeds of doubt and skepticism that will yield an unfailing harvest .
There is but one course for those to pursue who honestly desire to be freed from doubts . Instead of questioning and caviling concerning that which they do not understand , let them give heed to the light which already shines upon them , and they will receive greater light . Let
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