OUR LATE CONFERENCE IN NEW YORK.
By R. F. Cottrell
This meeting, held at Rome, was excellent. As we tried to draw near to the Lord, he evidently drew near to us. His guidance was earnestly sought, not only in the meetings of worship, but in all the business of the meeting. The several committees sought the Guiding Hand at every step, uniting in seasons of prayer in which all took part, in their several sessions, earnestly beseeching God that they might do the work assigned to them in a way to meet the mind of the Spirit, and tend to the advancement of the cause. And there was great unanimity in the business sessions of the Conference. We have reason to believe that the closing work of the message is at hand. To those who prepare their hearts and open the door, the Faithful Witness will come in, and they will sup together. This signifies no small blessing. It will be given to those who work and pray. The tithing system, as now so clearly understood and set forth among us, was unanimously adopted by the Conference and all present, and recommended to all. This I regard as significant of good about to be realized. When all the tithes and offerings are brought in, the blessing will be poured out in such abundance that there will hardly be room to receive it. Let all who would share in the fulfillment of the promise comply with the conditions. We have repeated warnings against covetousness. This is our greatest danger. If we fear to sacrifice to God, because of the fear of coming to want, we may expect to be found at last with “the fearful and unbelieving,” Rev. 21 : 8. The voice of God to his people at the present time is, “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning; and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding.” Luke 12 : 32–36. Our work is rapidly spreading over the world. Money is needed to send out missionaries, and sustain the work everywhere. And the means will be had. The Lord is not straitened in his work; but blessed are they who in faith and love labor for the advancement of the cause of God and for the salvation of souls. Let all covet a part in this glorious work.