A Word of Encouragement.
By Elnora Smouse
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: It has long been my desire to bear my testimony with God's people. It has been five years since I commenced keeping all the commandments of God. I thank the Lord that he has ever inclined my heart to obey the truth. My greatest desire is to be an overcomer. I want to see myself as the Lord sees me. I feel to praise his holy name for the blessings he is daily bestowing upon me. I want to live so that I may draw nourishment from the true and the living Vine. I thank the Lord for what he is doing for his people. When I think of the saved I want to be among those that will be counted worthy. I fear that we are not half awake. Let us throw off the lethargy that binds us to earth. We must make a mighty effort or we shall lose our crown. The work is great, and how many moments we suffer to run to waste. Oh! that we could realize more the importance of this time! My determinations are strong to go through with this people to Mount Zion. I thank the Lord for the health reform, and for what it has done for me and my family. We are trying to live it out, as a part of the truth. As a church we are striving to overcome, hoping by the help of the Lord, that we shall be able to go up and possess the goodly land. Your sister in hope of eternal life. Washington, Iowa, Aug. 3, 1868.