OUR GOOD FRIEND by L. W. Felter; Effie C. Felter

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 20, 1900

OUR GOOD FRIEND.

By L. W. Felter; Effie C. Felter

ABOUT nine years ago a missionary worker in the State of New York, whom we afterward had the pleasure of meeting, but who has since fallen asleep in Jesus, sent a stranger to our house, accompanied with a letter of introduction, saying that, if agreeable to us, the stranger would make us weekly visits for a while, at no expense to us; that we would doubtless find him very entertaining and agreeable, as well as instructive.

As we were much pleased with first appearances, the invitation was extended to continue the visits. We were especially pleased with his company; for he seemed to be a diligent student of the Bible, and had much to say about the nature of man, home of the saved, destiny of the wicked, the complete eradication of sin from the universe, the “blessed hope” of the soon-coming Saviour, and the restoration of the lost dominion. With all this we were in perfect accord.

But there was another subject upon which our new acquaintance had much to say; namely, that the seventh day is the Sabbath, and not the first day, which we were keeping. This was news to us; and while it seemed strange, we did not dare dispute it; for he always gave as authority the language of him who made the Sabbath; and as we loved the Lord, and wished to do those things that are pleasing in his sight, we soon changed our practice in regard to Sabbath-keeping.

Our acquaintance soon ripened into intimate friendship; and ever since, this esteemed friend has been a weekly visitor to our home. In fact, we do not see how we could get along without those visits; for he keeps us thoroughly posted in regard to the advancement of the cause of God in the earth,—the establishment of the work in new fields, and the triumphs as well as the troubles of the pioneer workers in those fields; the victories the truth is gaining everywhere,—also of the working of the elements of opposition to the work of God. He gives us hints on healthful living, missionary work, and practical godliness, in fact, a whole load of interesting information and highly prized instruction.

We wish that every family might enjoy the blessing of association with our good friend. He would cheer your hearts, lighten your burdens, brighten your pathway, quicken your labors in the cause of God, help you to grow up into Jesus, the living Head, point out the landmarks which show us that we are nearing the heavenly Canaan, and show you that now—yes, even at this very time—God is fulfilling his promise in pouring out his Holy Spirit upon his people, that the earth may be lightened with his glory.

If invited to do so, he will come to your home every week the year round, for only a small consideration. The name of this highly esteemed friend is the ADVENT REVIEW AND SABBATH HERALD. L. W. FELTER, EFFIE C. FELTER.