A Testimony of Faith and Trials
By Vesta N. Cudworth
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS, "that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus," Rev. xiv, 12: I can say I thank God for what has seemed to me the strange trials, or fiery ones, that drove me, by God's blessing, on the "rocks of distress," to be picked up by this friendly crew, and taken on board their gallant vessel. I embraced the Sabbath and other kindred truths, Nov. 10, 1865, because I dared not do otherwise, being convinced that they were the truths for this generation; also that God was about to "take me away in his wrath," when a great ransom could not deliver me, if I did not follow the light. I considered it a dry truth at best, exceedingly distasteful, and the greatest cross I ever took up for Jesus; but I wish to say to his praise, that under this cross I have found the brightest gem I ever yet wore. Unexpectedly I find myself in the greenest pastures, and beside the stillest waters that I have ever rested in, while passing through this howling wilderness. I am very much ashamed that I have resisted this truth so long; but One that looketh on the heart, knows the stumbling-blocks that have been in my path. Ezekiel xxxiv plainly pictures the time we live in, and my heart says, God have mercy on the flock; he will, ere the third angel ceases to sound. Israel will have one fold and one Shepherd, and may healing and strength go with this message. Mal. iv, 2, 3. When I promised God to keep his commandments, my health sprang forth suddenly (being almost helpless with a paralytic stroke). I have learned to rejoice a little in tribulation; have had strength given me from on high. I cannot say with St. Paul that I have always had (previous to my sickness) a conscience void of offense, but can say, I was trying to be good, endeavoring to maintain good works, and striving to enter in at the straight gate; but I felt a conscious weakness; my steps seemed to slide irresistibly, as though the ground was not tenable. But "I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me;" Ps. cxix, 75; also, "The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver." I desire also to say that the visions of sister W. have been to me, and others in this region, like the shadow of a great rock in a weary land." According to scripture, the true church in the last days will be blessed with visions, Acts ii, 17, at the same time when God will show wonders in heaven above, &c. Are we in that day? I consider it the best book we have to put into the hands of the honest seeker after truth, save the Bible. A few have embraced the truth in Springfield; others are troubled. We have regular meetings on the Sabbath, and are very much comforted through them. Bro. Daniels was with us last Sabbath. We should be glad to have more preaching, but are thankful for the help we have. May the Lord add to our number such as shall be saved. The true Sabbath of the Lord is to us as a star amid surrounding darkness, and in our weakness we cheerfully and untiringly advocate its beauty and blessedness to all with whom we are conversant. Even strangers listen often with apparent interest. Pray for us, that this handful may be mightily increased; but especially that we may be fruitful in every good word and work.