Patience in the Christian Journey
By Simon Patten
BRO. SMITH: I still love the cause of present truth, and am striving to keep pace with the work of God. I have chosen my part with the people who are trying to keep all the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. I am determined to keep with them, and though trials, many and bitter, befall them here, I look forward, knowing that final victory awaits them hereafter. I have no desire to turn back; for where should I go? The pleasures that the world holds out to view, glitter in the distance, but examine them closely and they are counterfeit. They leave a sting. They are not lasting. Where shall I look? Riches take to themselves wings and fly away. Where then? Not in this world, surely; for all is fleeting. But by faith we can view the home of the faithful. There what do we see? Joy unending; pleasures that do not leave a sting. Our hopes and anticipations are not raised high, and then we are doomed to bitter disappointment. Oh! no. And as I draw the contrast, my heart cries out, “Come Lord Jesus, come quickly.” Deliver us from this sin-cursed earth. Take us home to dwell with thee, that we may enjoy the glories of that place. They are beyond description. My heart thrills as I think of those mansions which Jesus has gone to prepare. I long to be there, yet I would not be impatient. “We’ll wait till Jesus comes,
And we’ll be gathered home.” “Here is the patience of the saints.” Then brethren and sisters, let us be patient. Let not courage abate for a moment. In a little from this we shall enjoy the reality of what we now see by faith in the distance. But I would not overlook the trials and tests of the way. At every advance step we see God testing his people. How important it is, then, that we move forward as the Lord leads, or we shall soon find ourselves enshrouded in darkness, self-deceived, and left to follow our own ways, and see our mistake when it is too late. May I not take this course, is my prayer. But Satan is working, and how cunningly! I desire to keep on the whole armor of God, that I may be able to resist all his temptations, and at last be among the overcomers. I believe the Health Reform is designed of God to bring his people up where they can serve him better; where they can have clearer minds, and more strength of body to devote to his service. I am thankful for the light that has shone upon my pathway on this subject. It has done much for me already, and I feel encouraged to persevere, knowing that I shall be well repaid in strength both of body and mind. I am determined to endure to the end; for the same shall be saved. Yours in Christ,
SIMON PATTEN.
Shields, Wis., Dec. 10, 1866.