Untitled article by L. I. Belnap

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, December 31, 1867

From Sister Belnap.

By L. I. Belnap

DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I believe the world is receiving the last message of mercy spoken of in Revelation xiv, and I am trying to learn of the true Witness, that I may be prepared for the time of trouble, which I believe is very near. I have passed through many trials and temptations, but the Lord has been my help. I feel resigned, because I know the Saviour has traveled there before me. “He knows what sore temptations mean; for he has felt the same;” and it is by trials patiently borne that we are to gain characters for that rest that remains for the faithful.

I also believe that the health reform is from the Lord, and am trying to live it out as far as circumstances will permit, believing that to be patient we must be temperate.

Let us be up and doing, taking heed to the admonitions and testimonies which we are weekly receiving, which I believe are meat in due season. I feel, in view of the shortness of time, to gird up the loins of my mind, and watch and pray, lest I be overcome by the cares of this life. It is time that we were watching jealously over our ways and words while in company with those that are not of our faith. They watch us and expect us to adorn our lives with a well-ordered life and a godly conversation. This will not be done until we get the truth not only in our heads but down into our hearts.

I find great consolation in trusting in the Lord, who is able to help all that call upon him. I rejoice in the light that is now shining on the path of the little remnant. How good the Lord is to admonish such unworthy creatures, by leading us as he did Israel, by the path we know not. He is now trying and proving us, to know if we will overcome all our carnal desires. For one I feel determined not to stop short of a perfect victory. Let us not fear what man shall say, but look to the Lord and he will help in every time of need. I praise the Lord daily, for all his goodness and bearing so patiently until I learn his will. What amazing love!

I have adopted the short dress and find it convenient, comfortable, and healthy. I am ready to meet all opposition in this direction. I know it is a step, dear sisters, calculated to humble us; but is this not in answer to our prayers? We certainly cannot expect to go through with pride in the heart. Let us rather rejoice that the Lord has a word for us, and as we advance willingly we shall feel the dross begin to consume, and the gold will begin to shine, and the Lord will lead us on, step by step, in the path of duty until all our own wills are subdued, and we become prepared for the latter rain, which will enable us to stand through the time of trouble, and at last see the King in his beauty.

L. I. BELNAP. St. Clair Co., Mich.