The Blessings of the Review
By Wm. Cottrell
BRO. SMITH: I am always delighted to receive the Review, as it is the only preaching that we have. The good sermons it contains, appear to be meat in due season. It cheers my heart to read them. The other departments of the paper all come in their proper order, and are read with interest. By and by we reach the Conference Department, where those that fear the Lord speak often to each other. How cheering to hear from the brethren and sisters in this way. It is the only way that we, in this place are privileged to hear from those that love the appearing of the Saviour. But I fear that we do not appreciate the truth as we should. The Laodicean state, how fearful! I am led to exclaim, How long shall it be till we arise? It seems to me that if I could have the society of Sabbath-keepers, and those that love the truths of this message, I should make better progress. But we are seeking and striving to some extent at least to overcome our sins, and reform our habits of living so that we may have pure hearts and healthy bodies, and be prepared for translation when Jesus comes. When I read the words of Jesus, “Ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you,” it comforts my heart. Should we not be very careful to do all that he has required of us? There are no non-essentials in his teachings. My prayer is, Lord help us to do our whole duty. One sweet thought connected with these words is, that as we are his friends, so he is our friend. Yes, Jesus is a friend indeed. He has not left us without comfort, but has even promised that himself and his Father would take up their abode with his friends. Oh! what can equal this! May it be our happy lot to stand finally with the redeemed when Jesus comes. WM. COTTRELL.
Bowersville, Ohio.