Overcoming Evil Appetites
By Julia E. Green
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I have often thought of writing for the REVIEW; but I have been kept from it, through the fear of man, or that this or that one would read it, and by a feeling that I was unworthy to take up space in our much-loved paper. I feel that I am indeed the least among God's people, and often think the cause would be better off without me; and thoughts like these will force themselves upon me: “You are so prone to sin that you had better give up; for you are a stumbling-block in the way of others.” Give up! give up what? Give up the peace and joy I have in trying to obey God? Give up all hope of overcoming and sharing in the glories of the kingdom? No, no; I cannot do that. I feel that for me it is better to live near God, and overcome my evil ways, even though I lose the reward at last. I feel very thankful that I had the privilege of attending the Wisconsin and Illinois Conference on Sabbath and first-day. At that time my mind was clouded, and I did not enjoy the meeting as I would have liked to; yet I was enabled to gather up and bring home enough of the principles set forth to give a new impetus to my spiritual life, which I pray I may never lose. The idea that we are too easily satisfied with our divine life, is very true. It has been so with me. I hope I may never feel satisfied again, until I arrive in glory. I believe the health reform is just what we need, and I want to overcome my evil appetites and habits, that I may be prepared to stand amid the troubles of the last days. I am striving to get all upon the altar; and I trust God to assist me, that I may be prepared to stand upon Mt. Zion, and sing the song of redemption.
JULIA E. GREEN.
Jefferson Co., Wis.