Genuine conversion is needed, not once in years, but daily. This conversion brings a man  into new relation with God. Old things, his natural temper, natural  passions, and hereditary traits of character pass away, and the man is  renewed, converted, sanctified. But this work needs to be continued, or  else the heart will become estranged from God; for just as long as Satan  lives, he will make an effort to carry out his will. The human agent  will constantly encounter a strong undercurrent. His heart needs to be  barricaded by faithful watchfulness and unceasing prayer, else the  embankment will give way, and like a mill stream, the undercurrent of  natural and cultivated tendencies will sweep away the safeguard. Then  the old objectionable traits of character will assert their sway. No  renewed heart can keep in a condition of sweetness and grace without the  application of the salt of the word. Divine grace must be applied  daily, else no man will stay converted.  {PC 359.2}

It  is the sufferings of our Redeemer in his life and death that makes it  possible for fallen man to become refined and elevating. As the divine  substitute and surety, he elevates the fallen race in character, and  brings their minds into healthful sympathy with the divine mind. Those  who are partakers of the divine nature see that true-heartedness means  continual humiliation, self-denial, and self sacrifice. Those who have  spiritual eyesight will discern that God does not honor those who are  honored by the world, but those who are true to principle. {PC 360.1}