Woodland, Cal., Dec. 18, 1872 by M. E. Cornell

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 31, 1872

Woodland, Cal., Dec. 18, 1872

By M. E. Cornell

California.

At present, I am too busy to report much, even if I had anything of interest to say. The entire charge of the meeting-house enterprise at Woodland has fallen upon me; and, help being scarce, I have to work night and day with my hands. The house is inclosed, and will be ready to occupy in about four weeks. I am glad to see it go ahead, at any sacrifice to myself. Labor and affliction are good for the soul. If red-wood slivers in the hand would answer the place of a “thorn in the flesh,” I might hope for some benefit, but these are the least of my troubles. It is self that is to be crucified, that the new man may be put on.

I believe I have begun the work in good earnest. For several years, this work has been neglected. A few faint efforts have been made, but there has been a lack of perseverance. Now it must go thorough if it takes the right eye and hand.

All the way along, thorns and briers have been springing up in the heart’s garden. Over past weakness and mistakes I grieve much. But I now set out anew. All is to be new. The old half-heartedness and blindness must pass away.

My soul thirsts after God, and yields every idol. A genuine conversion and new experience, I must have. I think of it, and labor for it day and night. God in mercy gives me the burden, and I cry out for God, the living God. Oh! when shall I come and appear before God! I would be glad of the prayers of any, that strength may be given me till the work be done. I know that nothing short of an entire consecration to the work will fit me to take part in this holy work, and I thank God that I desire it with my whole heart.

“Henceforth, let no profane delight Disturb this consecrated soul, Possess it Thou who hast the right, As Lord and Master of the whole.”

In due time, if the Lord will, I hope to report progress; for, though cast down, I am not discouraged—I never rejoiced more in the prosperity of the cause than now. The work goes bravely on, and may the Lord speed it gloriously. M. E. CORNELL.