Untitled article by A. M. A. CORNELL.

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, November 5, 1867

FromAdvent Review and Sabbath Herald, Vol. XXX, No. 21

THE CHASTENINGS OF THE LORD.

By A. M. A. CORNELL.

“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; be zealous, therefore, and repent.” Rev. iii, 19.

This language of the faithful and true Witness never seemed so solemn, so full of meaning, as now. When the light first shone upon us with regard to the Laodicean message, I accepted it. I had no doubt but that it applied to us as a people. For a time it had its effect upon me, and I tried to heed the loving counsel given in it; but the work in my heart was not deep enough to effect a thorough reformation. My zeal grew less and less, until I ceased to struggle with that earnestness that the case demanded, and I sank into an indifferent state. Although at times I have felt alarmed and tried to shake off this lethargy, my efforts have been too faint, too half-hearted, and the work was not accomplished for me that the message designed. While in this condition of spiritual blindness and unconsecration, I have failed to heed as fully as I should the testimonies and admonitions so mercifully vouchsafed to me through the gifts of the Spirit, and, in consequence, have not had strength to overcome, or power to resist the enemy.

But during our late meetings here, while enjoying the faithful labors of Bro. and sister White, the Spirit of God wrought powerfully upon the hearts of his people, convincing of sins, and impressing all minds with the solemn reflection that we are doing up work for the Judgment. I feel the deepest gratitude in my heart that I have been permitted to share in this work of humble repentance, confession of wrongs, and returning unto the Lord, and have had some assurance that the Lord would return unto me, and heal all my backslidings.

I most deeply regret all in the past that has been displeasing to God, or a grief to his saints. I trust that I shall learn wisdom by what I have suffered, and be able to turn to the best account these lessons of bitter experience, that they may not need to be repeated; not to be ignorant of Satan's devices, but live so near to God that I may be kept from his snares. I shall strive by the help of the Lord to redeem the past, fortify the weak places, and keep the heart with all diligence.

I am sorry that for so long a time I have occupied a doubting position on the dress reform. Had I stood in the light, and counsel of God, these doubts would have been easily disposed of. But I rejoice to say that as I have lifted the cross, and walked humbly in the path of obedience, I have experienced God's sweet blessing and approbation. I bless the Lord for his long-suffering and forbearance toward me, and realize, as never before, the importance, yea more, the imperative necessity, of being in perfect union and sympathy with this people in all their work of preparation. It is just as true now as ever that “rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.” May God save his people from these sins, and may none draw back to perdition, but all believe to the saving of the soul.

The Lord has dealt very mercifully with us, and chastened us in love. Oh, may we be so exercised by it, that it shall yield the peaceable fruits of righteousness.

Through the blessing of God, the untiring labors of Bro. and sister White have resulted in a glorious work here, in which we all rejoice. These dear servants of God hold a larger place in our affections and confidence than ever before. May we ever esteem them highly in love for their work's sake, and hold up their hands by our faithful prayers and careful walks.

I still crave a humble place with God's people, and an interest in their prayers, that my future course may be characterized by humility and faithfulness, that I may share in the glory soon to be revealed.

A. M. A. CORNELL.

Battle Creek, Mich.