Untitled article by H. P. Sprague

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · February 11, 1868

From Sister Sprague.

By H. P. Sprague

DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: While reading one of the communications in the Conference Department of the last Review, the thought occurred to me that it was as much my duty to improve upon my one talent as for others their ten. Nearly a year and a half ago I first heard the truths of the third angel's message proclaimed. A little previous to this time an Adventist family became our near neighbors. I soon learned that they had weekly prayer-meetings at their house, and I was invited to attend. I was at that time very bitterly opposed to the views of the Adventists, but as I had confidence in the piety of this family I decided to go. And I being in the way, the Lord there led me by his Spirit to pledge myself to investigate the Sabbath question and receive the truth whatever it might cost me.

I had not been like the noble Bereans who “searched the Scriptures daily whether these things were so;” but had been content to follow the traditions of the fathers, consequently I believed in first-day observance. I immediately commenced an investigation of the subject and to my great surprise I could find no ground for keeping the first day of the week; but everything in favor of the seventh. But now a heavy weight rested upon my mind. I clearly saw it was my duty to keep the Lord’s Sabbath; but the cross appeared so heavy it seemed for a while impossible for me to lift it. After a severe struggle I was enabled to throw myself on the promises of God and move forward in the path of duty, leaving the consequences with Him. I have never for a moment regretted taking this step. As soon as I moved forward in the performance of this duty, my heart was filled with sweet peace, such as the world can not give.

About this time Eld. R. F. Andrews came to our place; and through his preaching I was led to believe that what I had before thought to be pernicious doctrine was Bible truth.

Through prejudice and the pride of my unsanctified heart, I have been slow to receive many of the truths connected with the third angel’s message, but I can say I see more and more beauty in these truths, and feel that they are increasingly dear to me.

I have been called to pass through deep afflictions, but the loving arm of my Heavenly Father has been my constant support. A heavy burden of care still rests upon me, but Jesus kindly invites me to cast it upon him. At times I am enabled to do this. I know it is my privilege always.

My husband and two sweet babes rest in the grave. My heart thrills with joy when I think of the near coming of the Saviour, and that I, if faithful, shall meet those dear ones again never more to part. My four remaining children are all believers in present truth, have been buried with Christ in baptism, and I trust are walking in newness of life. Pray for us that we may press on in the narrow way, and finally be an unbroken family in our Father’s kingdom.

H. P. SPRAGUE.

Adams Co., Wis., Jan. 22, 1868.