Growth and Perseverance in the Faith
By Margaret M. Stringer
BRO. WHITE: I am thankful that my unprofitable life was spared to hear the glorious news of the third angel's message from brethren Van Horn and Canright, when they were in this place a little more than a year ago. And I am glad my eyes were opened that I might see, and my ears that I might hear, and that I had a heart to receive, the truth. I am not at all discouraged but am determined to go on to “know the Lord, whom to know aright is eternal life.” I praise the Lord; we have not met with many discouragements in this place. Since we were organized here last March there have been eight added to our number; and, praise his holy name, of all whom the Lord hath given us, we have lost none. I hope we may so let our light “shine before the world that others may be led to glorify our Father who is in Heaven.” Although “Satan has desired” some of us, that he may sift us as wheat; yet I trust that these trials will but purify us and render our crowns more bright when we arrive at home. I want to always realize that our “light afflictions work out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,” And I do “count it all joy” that I am found worthy to suffer affliction for Christ's sake, who has suffered so much for me. Knowing that “whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” I am truly grateful for the privilege of meeting with dear brethren and sisters and hearing their cheering testimonies. Our hearts seem by love together knit. I often think of those lonely ones whom we sometimes hear from through the Review. It must be lonely indeed to pass our pilgrimage alone here in this cold, unfriendly world. But dear friends, lift up your heads, your redemption draweth nigh. The time is not far distant when “we will all be gathered home.” “The road may be rough, but it cannot be long. We'll smooth it with hope and we'll cheer it with song.” I am glad to see the move made in regard to reform in health and dress. I believe it will do us good if we live it out. Let us watch and be sober and so be prepared for the evil days that are about to come upon us. Let us be prepared that that day come not as a thief in the night. But let us have our “lamps trimmed and burning, ready to go out to meet the bridegroom when he cometh.” Yours in hope of eternal life.