Untitled article by M. E. Waggoner

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, January 14, 1868

From Sister Waggoner.

By M. E. Waggoner

DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I have not enjoyed the privilege of meeting with those of like precious faith since the Lovetts Grove Conference which was held on the first Sabbath and Sunday of August last. But I would say that although alone, my heart and hand are still with this people to go to Mount Zion.

My mind is often confused on the Sabbath on account of work and worldly conversation which is going on around me, yet I feel that I am doing my duty in caring for my parents in affliction; consequently I can look up and claim the promise which says “My grace is sufficient for you.”

The time seems long since last I heard the fervent prayers and cheering testimony of the people of my choice. But I can say that I share in the blessing of God when I bow before his throne and call upon his name in faith. It is a consolation to think that our Father knows what is best for us. I do not feel discouraged, although trials seem severe and no one to whisper courage. But I am resolved to strive to do right under present circumstances and wait patiently till the Lord in his providence permits me again to meet with his people.

My heart is often touched while hearing the sighs and groans of the suffering. It is then I love to think of the better land whose inhabitants shall no more say I am sick, but all will bloom in immortal youth.

Here in this world we may be wanderers and feel that we have no abiding place, but if we are faithful unto the end, we can enter through the pearly gates of the New Jerusalem and know that its glories and beauties are ours to enjoy forever. Blessed thought that it is possible for unworthy me to overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony, and I have a place with the redeemed at last. But I realize that I too often forget to watch, and thus yield to temptation. Too often I lose sight of the prize, yet I am cheered with the thought that we have an High Priest that can be touched with the feelings of our infirmities, even who was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. I feel that he is the friend I need and I will cast my care upon him. While seeing others from day to day partaking of unhealthy food, I can say that I love the health reform and am very thankful for what it has done for me.

I hope to have an interest in the prayers of God's people, especially of the church at Battle Creek, that I may be disciplined by the trials through which I am called to pass, come off conqueror and be saved when Jesus comes.

Your sister in hope,

M. E. WAGGONER.

Columbus Grove, Ohio.