p. 131 | Then and Now by Ellen M. Morse

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 8, 1873

Then and Now.

By Ellen M. Morse

As I have recently been reading “Thoughts on the Revelation,” I have been led to contrast the manner in which I formerly read the Bible, the Revelation in particular, with the flood of light and glory which shines from the inspired volume at the present time. When a child, I read the Bible a great deal, especially the historical part, the gospels, and the Revelation. The last-mentioned, charmed me, with its wonderful imagery and sublimity, but there was little of it that I could understand. I had not been instructed concerning the things written in this book, and I took it for granted that events must be written in their chronological order. I seldom asked questions about things I did not understand, for I did not like to be laughed at for my ignorance.

I thought that in the thousand years, it was said that Christ would live on the earth with his people. A minister who lived near, expressed the view that this great event was near. I pondered this matter much, and sometimes it would rush to my mind with great force. The preaching I heard did not supply my wants. I tried to reconcile it with what I read, so as to gain a general understanding of the Scriptures; but the more I tried, the more I was mystified. In studying the Revelation, I understood that two classes were brought to view; the just and the unjust. The third angel’s message, in connection with what is said of the deceptive power of the two-horned beast, made a great impression upon my mind. I understood from this that God would have his people worship him by adhering to a true doctrine, and this I was not sure I had. I did not believe God would punish any one for receiving the mark of the beast who had not had an opportunity to know better.

Sometimes, before a shower, when there was loud thunder, and a great display of lightning, I have watched the clouds and thought of the wonderful things spoken of in the Revelation, and have sent up an earnest prayer to God that when consternation should overtake the wicked, I might be protected by his power. I thought if I only knew the way, I would willingly walk in it. Little did I comprehend that every part of that book, which looked so mystical then, would be explained to my satisfaction.

I wish to mention here some features of my early training, which were destined to be of great advantage to me when the truth should be presented to me. I was required to obey, and taught that the truly brave will do right, whatever may oppose; also, my father always discouraged in me any desire for display, or the company of vain and trifling persons, and urged me to gain a well-stored mind, as the riches which no change of fortune could take from me.

Dear friends, we are greatly favored as a people. Much light is given us, and much will be required of us.

I have seen few persons this winter outside of my own family, and have had much time to read and study. The REVIEW has been to me a living preacher, and through its columns I have enjoyed many a good conference with those of like faith; and the Bible reveals new beauties to me every day. Oh! let us earnestly strive for the heavenly inheritance.

ELLEN M. MORSE.

Emmett Co., Iowa.