Have Faith in God by A. P. Lawton

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 20, 1875

Have Faith in God.

By A. P. Lawton

It is the privilege of the people of God, while they have no confidence in themselves, to live so near to him that they may rest by faith on the precious promises, and feel that though cast down they are not destroyed. When we so live our hope will be like an anchor; our hearts will be filled with love to God, and our lives will speak forth his praise. A lack of prevailing faith keeps the people of God weak and feeble. They look for the blessing a great way off, and according to their faith so it is. They make feeble efforts and have feebleness in return. They let go the arm of the Lord before they get the victory. This is the victory, even our faith. God knows how much in earnest we are, and he will do all he has promised for the overcomer.

The rich experience, which is the fruit of the Spirit through faith, is not comprehended by the natural heart. Like the precious gem, it is found by digging deep—as the diamond glitters in the sun's rays, so the pure in heart will reflect the rays of the Sun of Righteousness. While its brightness in its focal intensity will destroy the wicked at the coming of Jesus, those who have been purified made white and tried can dwell with it.

We should talk, live, and act faith; for it is pleasing to God; but unbelief is from our great enemy. I am happy while writing on this glorious subject. By faith I now claim Jesus as my present Saviour. Precious Jesus! How I love to dwell upon that name! No music on earth was ever so sweet. Praise him forever! A. P. LAWTON.

W. Winfield, N. Y.