The Work of Reform by R. SMITH.

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jan 1, 1867

The Work of Reform.

By R. SMITH.

The dearest joys of earth can ne’er One solid pleasure give, We’re only blest when we can know That ’tis for God we live.

We love by nature what he hates, We shun ourselves to see, We love our appetites and pride, Ease and carnality.

The strife must come, and self must die, Our idols all be slain; How sad should they o’er us at last Their cruel victory gain!

Too soon we cannot overcome Our every sin and wrong. Through Jesus let us conquer self, And join the blood-washed throng.

Our wings of strength and zeal we plume, And rouse the dormant will, To yield our hearts to Nature’s laws, And all their claims fulfil.

This move in heavenly wisdom made, To fit for trouble’s hour, Has blessings for the willing heart, Of health and strength and power.

That all around may see the light, Let’s raise our banner high, And be epistles known and read By all who may come nigh.

The platform for us now is laid, Reform is on the sign; We’ll rally round, resolving each, Its blessings shall be mine.

R. SMITH.

West Wilton, N. H., Oct. 8, 1866.