Persevering in Present Truth
By N. M. Jordon
Dear Brethren and Sisters: I thank and praise our heavenly Father that by his mercy I was ever led to embrace the light of present truth. Six and one half years ago, under the preaching of Elders Loughborough and Steward, I commenced keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. I never have had during that time any disposition to give up my faith in the message. I have had temptations, clouds, discouragements and trials; but thank the Lord, his grace has been sufficient for me. “We must,” says the apostle, “through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Acts xiv, 22. The more I read the Bible, and the nearer I live to God, the brighter and more precious these truths become to me. I feel unworthy, yet I am resolved to be an overcomer and go through with the people of God to Mount Zion. How solemn, when we realize the grand and awful times in which we are living. Darkness is covering the earth, and gross darkness the people. Isa. ix, 2, “Evil men and seducers are waxing worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” 2 Tim. iii, 13. The world under the influence of the strong delusions in these last days, is hastening on like a mighty avalanche to destruction. May God in his mercy help us, as a people, to arouse out of sleep, put on the whole armor, and walk in all the light, that we may be able to stand in the great day of his wrath. The Lord is manifesting his loving kindness to us as a people, by causing the light of Heaven to break forth as the morning upon us; in leading us out from the traditions of men and doctrines of devils, back to that faith which was once delivered unto the saints. While the world are in unbelief and darkness, God’s people are being fed with spiritual manna from Heaven. As I reflect on these facts, the language of my heart is, Praise the Lord for what he is doing for his people. Brethren, I thank the Lord that the gift of prophecy is in the church. I love the testimonies which God is giving his people, and as I read them prayerfully, they always give me strength and fresh zeal in his cause. Testimony No. 11, was thankfully received a few days since. The light on “How to Live,” has been a great blessing to me and my family, for which we feel very thankful. Our hearts are in warm sympathy with the Health Reform. The church in this place enjoyed a good season at our Monthly Meeting, Sabbath, March 2, both in the social meeting and also in attending to the ordinances. The brethren expressed a determination to take hold of the work of the Lord anew. Strong and pointed testimonies were given in favor of the Health Reform. Yours, striving to overcome.
N. M. JORDON.
Lodi, Wis., March 6, 1867.