QUOTATIONS FROM ELLEN G. WHITE
1. On Heart, Atmosphere, and Influence on Others
Acts of the Apostles, p. 126.1, "When the mind of man is brought into communion with the mind of God, the finite with the infinite, the effect on body and mind and soul is beyond estimate. In such communion is found the highest education. It is God’s own method of development. “Acquaint now thyself with Him” Job 22:21 is His message to mankind."
Manuscript Releases, vol. 20, p. 51.3, "There is a peculiar atmosphere surrounding every man's soul, and those with whom they are associated are affected with this exhalation. There is a breathing in unconsciously this atmosphere which is often charged with poisonous miasma of habits and practices which are demoralizing. The greatest danger is when this poisonous atmosphere is not sensed and is unconsciously inhaled. The ideas that are expressed are deleterious to the mind and to the morals. These influences are in the world and abound."
Reflecting Christ, p. 262.3, "Every soul is surrounded by an atmosphere of its own--an atmosphere, it may be, charged with the life-giving power of faith, courage, and hope, and sweet with the fragrance of love. Or it may be heavy and chill with the gloom of discontent and selfishness, or poisonous with the deadly taint of cherished sin. By the atmosphere surrounding us, every person with whom we come in contact is consciously or unconsciously affected."
Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p.733.2, "The Effect of Personal Atmosphere.--The influence of every man's thoughts and actions surrounds him like an invisible atmosphere, which is unconsciously breathed in by all who come in contact with him. This atmosphere is frequently charged with poisonous influences, and when these are inhaled, moral degeneracy is the sure result.-- 5T 111 (1882).
Sermons and Talks, vol. 1, p. 205.1, "Now I read some verses further than this: 'And now come I to Thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have'--what?—'My joy fulfilled in themselves.' Well now, this is the privilege of every individual soul. The joy of Christ fulfilled in themselves. Think that this can be done; believe that it can be done. Act it; and you will find that you are brought into a purer atmosphere; you are breathing the atmosphere of heaven--not the atmosphere of hell, but the atmosphere of heaven--and when you breathe in that atmosphere, and this atmosphere surrounds the soul, all that come within the sphere of your influence are benefited and blessed."
Steps to Christ, p. 68, "In the matchless gift of His Son, God has encircled the whole world with an atmosphere of grace as real as the air which circulates around the globe. All who choose to breathe this life-giving atmosphere will live and grow up to the stature of men and women in Christ Jesus."
God's Amazing Grace, p. 238.3, "Not all the beauty of art can bear comparison with the beauty of temper and character to be revealed in those who are Christ's representatives. It is the atmosphere of grace which surrounds the soul of the believer, the Holy Spirit working upon mind and heart, that makes him a savor of life unto life, and enables God to bless his work."
The Upward Look, p. 106.4, "As the erring one accepts the testimony borne, and gives evidence of true repentance, the sunshine of heaven fills his heart. Hearts are drawn together. The healing oil of love removes the disease and soreness of the wrong. The Holy Spirit binds heart to heart."
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 191.1, "Every teacher who has to do with the education of young students should remember that children are affected by the atmosphere that surrounds the teacher, whether it be pleasant or unpleasant. If the teacher is connected with God, if Christ abides in his heart, the spirit that is cherished by him will be felt by the children. If teachers enter the schoolroom with a provoked, irritated spirit, the atmosphere surrounding their souls will also leave its impression."
Home and Church School Manual, p. 36.1, "Every one who has to do with educating the younger class of students should consider that these children are affected by, and feel the impression of the atmosphere, whether it be pleasant or unpleasant. If the teacher is connected with God, if he has Christ abiding in his heart, the spirit that is cherished by him is felt by the children. When a teacher manifests impatience or fretfulness toward a child, the fault may not be in the child one half as much as in the teacher, who needs himself to be disciplined and trained, and deserves a heavier punishment than he puts upon the child, for he is old enough to know better."-- P.C .
Manuscript Releases, Vol. 2, p. 46.1, "The Spirit is constantly showing to the soul glimpses of the things of God. A Divine Presence seems to hover near, and then if the mind responds, if the door of the heart is opened, Jesus abides with the human agent. The Spirit's energy is working in the heart and leading the inclination of the will to Jesus by living faith and complete dependence of Divine power to will and to do of His good pleasure. The Spirit taketh the things of God, just as fast as the soul resolves and acts in accordance with the light revealed.--Letter 135, 1898, pp. 2, 3. (To G. B. Starr, no date.)
Steps to Christ, p. 73, "The regenerating influence of the Holy Spirit renewed his heart. The power of the love of Christ wrought a transformation of character. This is the sure result of union with Jesus. When Christ abides in the heart, the whole nature is transformed. Christ's Spirit, His love, softens the heart, subdues the soul, and raises the thoughts and desires toward God and heaven.
That I May Know Him, p 90. 4, "Our life is not our own, never was, and never can be. The question of importance to us is, Is our life interwoven with that of Jesus? . . . We shall come into judgment for the very atmosphere that surrounds the soul, for it is vital and is influencing souls for good or evil."
God's Amazing Grace, p. 274.4, "Those who study the Word of God and day by day receive instruction from Christ bear the stamp of heaven's principles. A high, holy influence goes forth from them. A helpful atmosphere surrounds their souls. The pure, holy, elevated principles that they follow enable them to bear a living testimony to the power of divine grace."
Mind, Character, and Personality, Vol. 2, p. 433. 5, "Surrounded With Atmosphere of Faith.--It is of the greatest importance to us that we surround the soul with the atmosphere of faith. Every day we are deciding our 434 own eternal destiny in harmony with the atmosphere that surrounds the soul. We are individually accountable for the influence that we exert, and consequences that we do not see will result from our words and actions."
Manuscript Releases, Vol. 21, p. 178.6 , "The atmosphere that surrounds the soul must be vitalized by heavenly principle, for naturally our influence is but evil. When all feel that it is a positive duty to see what atmosphere surrounds their soul, and by viewing Christ with the eye of faith to keep above the fogs and the clouds and look upon Him who is invisible, then our influence will exert a continual power, no matter what may be our calling or position."
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, p. 914.1, "These rejecters of light cease to recognize light. Their souls are surrounded by a malarious atmosphere, and though some may not show open hostility, those who have spiritual discernment will realize the icy coldness which surrounds their souls."
Ministry of Healing, p. 492, "But by beholding Jesus, talking of His love and perfection of character, we become changed into His image. By contemplating the lofty ideal He has placed before us, we shall be uplifted into a pure and holy atmosphere, even the presence of God. When we abide here, there goes forth from us a light that irradiates all who are connected with us."
From My Life Today, p. 191, "What rays of softness and beauty shone forth in the daily life of our Saviour! What sweetness flowed from His very presence! . . . Those with whom Christ dwells will be surrounded with a divine atmosphere. Their white robes of purity will be fragrant with perfume from the garden of the Lord."
Faith and Works, p. 65.1, "There are the impressions that are going forth all the time. There is an atmosphere that surrounds the human soul and that atmosphere is a heavenly atmosphere or a hellish atmosphere. There are but two distinct lines. Either we are on Christ's side of the question or on the enemy's side. And if we are continually drawing rays of divine light from glory, angels of God are around about us and there is an atmosphere that surrounds the human soul. Our very attitude, our very words, witness genuine conversion to all who come within the sphere of our influence. "The Spirit and the bride say come, and let him that heareth say come, and let him that is athirst come."
God's Amazing Grace, p. 238.3, "Not all the beauty of art can bear comparison with the beauty of temper and character to be revealed in those who are Christ's representatives. It is the atmosphere of grace which surrounds the soul of the believer, the Holy Spirit working upon mind and heart, that makes him a savor of life unto life, and enables God to bless his work."
God's Amazing Grace, p. 274.4, "Those who study the Word of God and day by day receive instruction from Christ bear the stamp of heaven's principles. A high, holy influence goes forth from them. A helpful atmosphere surrounds their souls. The pure, holy, elevated principles that they follow enable them to bear a living testimony to the power of divine grace."
That I May Know Him, p. 90.4, "Our life is not our own, never was, and never can be. The question of importance to us is, Is our life interwoven with that of Jesus? . . . We shall come into judgment for the very atmosphere that surrounds the soul, for it is vital and is influencing souls for good or evil."
That I May Know Him, p. 236.4, "If you seek the help and grace of God, the Holy Spirit will take possession of mind and character and work in you that which you can work out with all safety to yourself, and with all benefit to others. . . . The atmosphere that surrounds your soul will be of a pure, healthful character."
The Signs of the Times, October 23, 1879, paragraph 6, "This false sanctification is most dangerous and deceptive in its influence upon all who accept it. A peculiar atmosphere surrounds them, an influence which, when brought in contact with others, if not discerned, is breathed in unconsciously by the receiver. This atmosphere is charged with poison which is death to spirituality. There are no snares of Satan more hard to be discerned and defined, and souls be rescued from, than this delusion."
Living by Principle, p. 9.2, "The influence of every man's thoughts and actions surrounds him like an invisible atmosphere, which is unconsciously breathed in by all who come in contact with him. This atmosphere is frequently charged with poisonous influences, and when these are inhaled, moral-degeneracy is the sure result."-- Test., Vol. V, p. 111.
Manuscript Releases, vol. 21, pp. 178-179, "The atmosphere that surrounds the soul must be vitalized by heavenly principle, for naturally our influence is but evil. When all feel that it is a positive duty to see what atmosphere surrounds their soul, and by viewing Christ with the eye of faith to keep above the fogs and the clouds and look upon Him who is invisible, then our influence will exert a continual power, no matter what may be our calling or position."
The Watchman, December 4, 1906, paragraph 7, "When the love of Christ is enshrined in the heart, like sweet fragrance it cannot be hidden. The holy influence, reflected through the character, will be manifest to all.
The Voice in Speech and Song, p. 285.1, "The Holy Spirit must work the man; the man must not endeavor to work the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is not a servant, but a controlling power. The Holy Spirit causes the truth to shine in every mind, and speaks through every discourse where the minister surrenders himself to its working. The Holy Spirit walks with the soul by the way, and talks with the human agent. It is He who gives the atmosphere that surrounds the soul, and speaks to the impenitent through words of warning.--Lt 29, 1895.
(Australasian) Union Conference Record, June 1, 1904, paragraph. 7, "Christ has made provision that His church shall be a transformed body, illumined with the Light of the world, possessing the glory of Immanuel. It is His purpose that every Christian shall be surrounded with a spiritual atmosphere of light and peace. There is no limit to the usefulness of the one who, putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God."
Christian Service, p. 250.3, God desires to refresh His people by the gift of the Holy Spirit, baptizing them anew in His love. There is no need for a dearth of the Holy Spirit in the church. After Christ's ascension, the Holy Spirit came upon the waiting, praying, believing disciples with a fulness and power that reached every heart. In the future the earth is to be lightened with the glory of God. A divine influence is to go forth to the world from those who are sanctified through the truth. The earth is to be encircled with an atmosphere of grace. The Holy Spirit is to work on human hearts, taking the things of God and showing them unto men.-- Southern Watchman, Sept. 5, 1905.
Ministry of Healing, p. 115, "The love which Christ diffuses through the whole being is a vitalizing power. Every vital part—the brain, the heart, the nerves—it touches with healing. By it the highest energies of the being are roused to activity. It frees the soul from the guilt and sorrow, the anxiety and care, that crush the life forces. With it come serenity and composure. It implants in the soul, joy that nothing earthly can destroy—joy in the Holy Spirit—health-giving, life-giving joy.
"Our Savior’s words, “Come unto Me, . . . and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28), are a prescription for the healing of physical, mental, and spiritual ills. Though men have brought suffering upon themselves by their own wrongdoing, He regards them with pity. In Him they may find help. He will do great things for those who trust in Him."
Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 41, "Faith in Christ as the world's Redeemer calls for an acknowledgment of the ENLIGHTENED INTELLECT CONTROLLED BY THE HEART that can discern and appreciate the heavenly treasure."
2. On Plasticity of the Mind
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 193.1, "A teacher may have sufficient education and knowledge in the sciences to instruct, but has it been ascertained that he has tact and wisdom to deal with human minds? If instructors have not the love of Christ abiding in their hearts, they are not fit to bear the grave responsibilities placed upon those who educate the youth. Lacking the higher education themselves, they know not how to deal with human minds. Their own insubordinate hearts are striving for control; and to subject the plastic minds and characters of the children to such discipline is to leave upon the mind scars and bruises that will never be removed."
Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 260, "Every teacher needs Christ abiding in his heart by faith, and to possess a true, self-denying, self-sacrificing spirit for Christ's sake. One may have sufficient education and knowledge in science to instruct; but has it been ascertained that he has tact and wisdom to deal with human minds? If instructors have not the love of Christ abiding in the heart, they are not fit to be brought into connection with children, and to bear the grave responsibilities placed upon them, of educating these children and youth. They lack the higher education and training in themselves, and they know not how to deal with human minds. There is the spirit of their own insubordinate, natural hearts that is striving for the control, and to subject the plastic minds and characters of children to such a discipline, p. 261 is to leave scars and bruises upon the mind that will never be effaced."
Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, September 8, 1904, paragraph 4, "At an early age the minds of children are very susceptible to impressions of good or of evil. Even in infancy a child is affected by a sorrowful expression on the mother's face. In a home where harsh, fretful, scolding words are spoken, a child cries much, and upon its tender sensibilities are impressed the marks of unhappiness and discord. Then, mothers, let your countenance be full of sunshine. Smile, if you can, and the infant's mind and heart will reflect the light of your countenance, as the polished plate of an artist portrays the human features. Be sure, mothers, to have an indwelling Christ, so that on your child's plastic mind may be impressed the divine likeness."
3. On Tobacco Smoke and Infants
"While it [tobacco] acts upon some [infants who are compelled to inhale its fumes] as a slow poison, and affects the brain, heart, liver, and lungs, and they waste away and fade gradually, upon others it has a more direct influence, causing spasms, paralysis, and sudden death.—H. to L, p. 68. (p. 201).
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