How Sad the Fact by R. F. Cottrell

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 24, 1866

How Sad the Fact

By R. F. Cottrell

THAT all do not readily receive the truth. The truth was presented to a considerable number in French Creek, Chautauque Co., some three years since. Many were deeply interested and some almost persuaded to obey. Professors of religion were convicted of duty, but were not quite ready to obey. But there was one, a young lady that had never made a public confession of faith in Christ. She not only saw the truth, but readily resolved to obey. I learn that she persevered in keeping the commandments alone in her father's family to the close of her life; for she has fallen asleep, "Asleep in Jesus soon to rise!"

Why not all receive the truth as readily? Ah! the deceitfulness of sin. Professors and non-professors have the truth brought plainly and forcibly to their minds; but they postpone and still delay, and very frequently finally reject. How sad the thought! Why not all receive the message from Heaven and be saved?

But vain our regrets. Sin has entered into the world. The fair inheritance given to man has been forfeited. And though again offered through our Lord Jesus Christ, few are ready with joy to accept it. Oh! how blind. Loving darkness rather than light. Loving the praise of men more than the praise of God. Why not believe God, trust him, obey him, and be saved? Ah! how low we are fallen. Is it not rather a wonder that any of such a race, so fallen, should be saved. But some will be saved, even by the last message of mercy. Thank the Lord! who is still waiting to be gracious. O spare thy people, Lord!

R. F. C.