The government of God is not, as Satan would make it appear, founded upon a blind submission, an unreasoning control. It appeals to the intellect and the conscience.

"Come now, and let us reason together" is the Creator's invitation to the beings He has made. Isaiah 1:18.

God does not force the will of His creatures. He cannot accept an homage that is not willingly and intelligently given. A mere forced submission would prevent all real development of mind or character; it would make man a mere automaton. Such is not the purpose of the Creator. He desires that man, the crowning work of His creative power, shall reach the highest possible development. He sets before us the height of blessing to which He desires to bring us through His grace. He invites us to give ourselves to Him, that He may work His will in us. It remains for us to choose whether we will be set free from the bondage of sin, to share the glorious liberty of the sons of God.

Go on to We must give up anything that would draw us away from God...

White, Ellen Gould: Steps to Christ. Pacific Press Publishing Association, 1892; SC 43.4

From Consecration