CS 153
(Counsels on Stewardship 153)
Riches Not a Ransom for the Transgressor VC
All the riches, even of the most wealthy, are not sufficient to hide the smallest sin from God. Neither riches nor intellect will be accepted as a ransom for the transgressor. Repentance, true humility, a broken heart, and a contrite spirit, alone will be acceptable to God. (CS 153.1) MC VC
There are many in our churches who should bring large offerings, and not content themselves with presenting a feeble pittance to Him who has done so much for them. Immeasurable blessings are falling upon them, but how little they return to the Giver! Let those who are indeed pilgrims and strangers upon the earth, now send their treasures before them to the heavenly country, in the much-needed gifts to the Lord’s treasury.—The Review and Herald, December 18, 1888. (CS 153.2) MC VC
The Greatest Danger VC
I was shown that there is no lack of means among Sabbathkeeping Adventists. At present their greatest danger is in their accumulations of property. Some are continually increasing their cares and labors; they are overcharged. The result is, God and the wants of His cause are nearly forgotten by them; they are spiritually dead. They are required to make a sacrifice to God, an offering. A sacrifice does not increase, but decreases and consumes.... Much of the means among our people is only proving an injury to those who are holding on to it.—Testimonies for the Church 1:492. (CS 153.3) MC VC