MONTHLY MEETING IN N. Y.
By N. Fuller
THE Monthly Meeting for Allegany Co. was held last Sabbath and first-day at Deer Creek, where a few faithful ones have been striving to live out the truth for several years in the past. The cause of God had been greatly disgraced by some who had lately moved to that place; and it looked like a hard place to labor. But the Lord is at the head of the work, and when his people move at his bidding, the blessing follows. The church was blessed and greatly strengthened. Backsliders and sinners came, confessing their way to God. One young man who had been induced to come 30 miles to attend the meeting, bore the cross, and acknowledged the Saviour with boldness. He arose, and, while almost weeping aloud, said he had been a great sinner, and now wanted to be a Christian. He said the entire family to which he belonged, was unconverted. His testimony seemed to reach every heart. I thought of those children whose parents are Christians, and have tried to induce them to become such, but they will not; yet this young man with no relative to help him, will give his heart to Jesus. The Saviour said of those who slighted good opportunities, “It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of Judgment, than for thee.” But what a reward awaits those who leave father or mother, brother or sister, for his sake! They shall receive a hundred fold, and shall inherit everlasting life. May God help that dear young friend, with several others who so firmly resolved to live for Jesus, to endure as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. I spoke as plainly as I could, on the necessity of being baptized when we had believed with all the heart; but earnestly entreated those who did not feel that they could live out all the truths of God, not to offer themselves to the church as candidates for baptism. Five offered themselves at the house; but when we came to the water, others came forward, until the number was increased to twelve. The Spirit of God seemed to overshadow the place. Some three or four who felt that they ought to go down into the liquid stream with the rest, and thereby acknowledge Christ, stood and wept as they gazed upon the scene. Will they not soon be ready? I believe that Satan tried to overthrow that meeting. Sr. Vincent had four days before been thrown from a buggy by its upsetting. One of her limbs was fractured, and the knee put out of joint: but she bore it patiently, and, as usual, Bro. Vincent’s house was a home for the saints. Our meeting was a success. Heaven’s blessing attended it. As some have taken a bad course, and have been overthrown by Satan, let others take warning. Let all learn wisdom by the things they have suffered. My prayer is, Spare thy people, Lord; and give not thine heritage to reproach. Yours in hope,
N. FULLER.
Wellsville, N. Y., Aug. 5, 1868.