Pressing On Through Affliction
By Lucy Porter
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: It is nearly thirteen years since I commenced trying to keep the true Sabbath of the Lord; and as I look back on my past life I feel to mourn that I have made so many crooked paths, and have lived so far from God. Yet to-day I feel thankful that the Lord is long-suffering to usward, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. For a few months past I have been passing through deep affliction; but I feel no less determined, yea, I feel more determined than ever, by the assisting grace of God, to try to go through to the kingdom. It is but a short time since my dear companion was laid away in the grave, there to wait the sound of the last trump. I firmly believe he will then come forth clothed with immortality. Oh, what a comforting thought! If we are faithful a little longer we shall meet loved ones that now sleep in Jesus. It encourages me to press on. I feel like putting my whole trust and confidence in God, and I have ever found him a present help in time of need. I can truly say there are but few ties that bind me to the earth. My greatest desire is that I may overcome all my evil besetments, and that God will give me wisdom to bring up my children in the way they should go, that we may at last become an unbroken family in the kingdom of God. Oh! for a deeper work of grace in my heart. I want to be fitted and prepared for the coming of our dear Saviour, that I may hear the welcome applaudit, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” LUCY PORTER.
Mantorville, Minn.