Too Busy by S. B. Whitney

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Aug 18, 1874

Too Busy.

By S. B. Whitney

FOR what? To spend time in attending scenes of amusement or parties of pleasure? No, not that. To stop to read important news, or, what is worse, the light and fictitious literature of the day? Not that either.

Well, what then? Too busy to attend Conference. So said a first-day Adventist who called at the tent the other day, in answer to the inquiry whether he attended a session of the Conference recently held not far from where he lived. After replying in the negative, he added with some emphasis, “It is too busy a time for me to attend Conference.” True, the season is late and the weather unfavorable; still I could but mentally ask, How much faith can such have in the soon coming of the Lord? or how much do they appreciate the preparation needed for that event?

And I was also led to reflect as to how many S. D. Adventists within the bounds of the Conference will be absent from our expected camp-meeting for the same reason. It is painfully certain there will be some. But I hope we begin to see the danger of being blinded by the god of this world, and the necessity of seeking first the kingdom of God to that degree that the number of such will be materially lessened, and that we shall see at that meeting such a rally of earnest, determined seekers after God as has never been witnessed in this State.

Brethren and sisters, just as many of you as can, come, even at a sacrifice. Show your faith by your works, and let it be seen that your heart is in the coming kingdom instead of this world.

And not only be in earnest to come, but in earnest to work, in earnest to seek God when there, and even now, while making preparation to go. Do not come simply because Bro. and sister White are expected (for which I am indeed thankful), but because God in his providence is furnishing you with just the help you need at this time, and without which your prospects of success in overcoming will be very much injured, to say the least.

Especially do I hope the friends in the northern part of the State will appreciate the favor shown them. You have desired the meeting to be in September to accommodate you better. In the providence of God, this is brought about. Now show your gratitude by improving the opportunity thus graciously offered you. Time is short, the work is great, dangers are many; but life is precious, rest is sweet, and these we must gain, at any cost. S. B. WHITNEY. West Hebron, N. Y., Aug. 4, 1874.