Untitled article by A. O. Tobey

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, July 16, 1867

From Sister Tobey.

By A. O. Tobey

BRO. SMITH: I have felt of late that I have not done all I could in the cause of truth, and I wish to redouble my efforts, that I may be the means of doing some little good in the vineyard of my Master. I fear lest the blood of souls be found in the skirts of my garments. I fear lest it may not be said of me, “She hath done what she could.” I have determined of late by the help of God, that in every way in my power, I will strive to advance the cause of truth, and honor Him who died to redeem me, by my daily walk, by my conversation, by lending papers and books to those who will read them, by devoting one-tenth of what I earn to the promulgation of the doctrine of the coming of Christ and its associate truths. Even more, if God prospers me, I will do according as he prospereth; though my friends think that as my health is poor and I earn but little, that it is not my duty to do anything for the cause. And even poor, human nature sometimes asks, What if sickness overtakes you, and your friends reproach you for what you have done? But I cast aside such thoughts as unworthy the Christian, as dishonoring Him who has promised to bestow such blessings upon those who do his will, and who has promised never to leave nor forsake.

Am I presumptuous when I say I have no fear of want? My trust is in God. The silver and the gold are his, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. The promises are all yea and amen in Christ Jesus. The hand that in such rich colors can clothe the lily, the hand that feeds the sparrow and the raven, can provide for the necessities of his children. We are bid to ask and receive, and this I believe will embrace not only spiritual necessities, but also temporal wants. I believe there is a lack of faith on the part of God’s people—a lack of earnest, effectual, importunate prayer. Oh when will the children of God learn to step out on his promises! I believe it is time for the followers of Christ to show their faith by their works. A. O. TOBEY. Rock Island, Ills.