E. H. TEFFT by E. H. Tefft

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 10, 1874

E. H. TEFFT

By E. H. Tefft

Attainments.

“I AM not satisfied with my present attainments,” was the language of nearly all of the church members lately assembled at our quarterly gathering in Allegany Co., N. Y. There was a gleam of light that arose by the Spirit of Christ which enabled them to look around and see themselves. Their progressive faith was at fault. They had not arrived to that degree of excellence which they had desired during the past year. Their anticipations were not realized. The sins of omission did not appear so very large while passing along; but when magnified by the Holy Spirit, with a realizing sense of opportunities for doing good past, never to return, and that justice would record “Tekel” against their names, this led them to vow anew for the coming year. This caused the leader of the meeting to survey the future probabilities, obligations, and sure temptations that awaited us, and earnestly exhort us to hold out. Should we fail, it might be better not to vow at all, as it would weaken our future energy and remain a hindrance to ourselves and others. But still the load was dropped from the conscience of many, with hope of future diligence and humble consecration.

There also seemed to be a special drawing out after the young and backslidden, while all were edified and encouraged by the stirring testimony of Bro. D. C. Phillips. He said “he began to feel natural,” alluding, as I suppose, to the power of the first message, when Adventists were moved to shout for victory through faith, believing their earthly probation about to close, and their absent Lord to return; in which we all feel this day to rejoice.

E. H. TEFFT

Ward, Allegany Co., N. Y.