This quote originates from Ellen White's book **Prophets and Kings**, page 486 (
PK 486.2). The full statement reads: "True success in any line of work is not the result of chance or accident or destiny. It is the outworking of God's providences, the reward of faith and discretion, of virtue and perseverance" (
PK 486.2). This powerful counsel appears in multiple compilations of Ellen White's writings, which is why you'll find it referenced in several sources.
However, the original source is Prophets and Kings. The statement also appears in Christian Service (
ChS 257.10), Counsels on Stewardship (
CSA 56.1), Sabbath School Worker (
SS 252.1), and The Youth's Instructor from August 6, 1903. Ellen White's message here emphasizes that genuine success isn't random or predetermined by fate. Instead, it flows from God's providential working combined with our faithful cooperation—through discretion, virtue, and perseverance. She concludes this thought by noting that "God gives opportunities; success depends upon the use made of them" (
PK 486.2).
This places both divine sovereignty and human responsibility in proper balance. --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:**
• What did Ellen White say about the relationship between character development and success?
• How does Ellen White define true success versus worldly success?
• What practical counsel did she give about perseverance in God's work?