p. 363 | From Bro. Hickoks by S. W. Hickoks

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 26, 1868

From Bro. Hickoks.

By S. W. Hickoks

BRO. SMITH: I have often been refreshed while reading in the Conference Department of our precious paper the experience of many of God's dear people, and have thought it might not be out of place for me to say a few words, at least to acknowledge the goodness of God in bestowing such inestimable blessings and privileges on one so unworthy. How oft, while contemplating the amount of light we are receiving from the Review and other sources, I am led to exclaim, Who is like unto this people, and what people so responsible. Oh, that I might feel the burden more than ever, and that I may be able to consecrate my life, my all to the cause of my blessed Master. The little church in this place are struggling for victory. God, in his goodness, has seen fit to strengthen us by directing several precious souls hither to join us, which, we hope and trust, will be for our good; but we are compelled to drink the bitter with the sweet. The enemy, of course, must lay his claims here. Our dear Bro. Porter seems to be his special victim. Oh, how we have been pained to witness his assaults on this dear saint of God, as he roams about in despair, mourning his loss of eternal life, wringing his hands, casting himself upon the ground, pleading in anguish of soul that he might be delivered from the seven last plagues. At times, through prayer and pointing him to Jesus, we have been able to break up the clouds, and give him some peace of mind. We would earnestly solicit prayer in his behalf. We also have been tried some in the way of dress, &c., but we expect ere long to come out clear in that direction. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that we may be among those who overcome, and be found without spot, or wrinkle, before the throne.

Yours, striving for the faith, S. W. HICKOKS.

Dodge Co., Minn., May, 1868.