Seasons of Refreshing by M. E. OLSEN

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 14, 1915

Seasons of Refreshing

By M. E. OLSEN

THE young people attending our denominational schools are continually breathing an atmosphere of faith in God and of loyalty to his written Word, which is in marked contrast to the atmosphere that prevails in the educational centers of the world. But these generally favorable conditions for healthy spiritual growth by no means render less necessary those seasons of special refreshing when it pleases the Holy Spirit to manifest himself in power. Such a season was the late week of prayer for the teachers and students of Washington Missionary College.

Plans had been laid in advance to make the most of this annual spiritual feast. The readings were given daily at meetings attended by the entire school, and at the beginning the spirit of heart searching and of longing for a deeper experience was generally manifested. As the meetings progressed, the work deepened. The prayer bands, which included all the students, held daily meetings at which sins were confessed and put away, and definite victories were gained. Those who were enjoying a good experience themselves had their hearts drawn out for others who needed help, and much excellent personal labor was put forth. On Wednesday evening the gracious influences of the Spirit were very marked, and fifty young men and women came forward for prayers. Some of these had never before surrendered themselves to God. It was a meeting long to be remembered for the manifest presence of the Lord.

While the world is largely given to holiday making and revelry, it is well that our young people can have that deeper experience in the things of God which alone brings lasting happiness.

M. E. OLSEN.