SANCTIFY THEM THROUGH THY TRUTH: THY WORD IS TRUTH.
By F. M. Shimper
How full and comprehensive is the prayer of our divine Lord and Master, for the sorrowing disciples, as he was about to leave them for a season; though sweetly assured that he will come again and take them to himself, yet, in the interval they have need not of the comforter only, but also, of the sanctifying power of truth. Of this the "Good Shepherd" was aware, and consequently prays, sanctify them through thy truth; and O praised be his name forever, he prayed not for them alone, but for all who should believe on him through their word. Dear brethren and sisters, do we know in our own souls the answer to this all important petition, as God has made it our privilege, nay more, our duty to know it. Even though we proved all the consecrating power of the gospel to the 10th of the 7th month, '44, there laying ourselves, our all, in holy dedication on the altar, yet, in the deep anguish of that disappointment have we not almost turned back, thinking there is no more truth for us, and perhaps now begin to feel that there is need of no more. But stop a moment dear brother, dear sister, and look within. Upon close examination do you find all that deadness to the world, and life in Christ, you would desire in view of eternal scenes? Is every passion subjugated, and every feeling in sweet unison with the bright spirits of "the better land," or, in other words, in accordance with the pure principles of the gospel? Ah, no. Methinks the result of heart-searching, is, I am far from what I should be, and what I must be to enter into life. If so, let us praise God that there is more truth for us, yes, glory to his ever blessed name, even for us. The favored John saw a third angel which followed the two, whose messages in the time of their proclamation, were attended with great power, (as our own and thousands of souls witnessed,) and how fully adapted to the wants of the scattered flock, in their patient waiting time, is the burden of this third angel's message;—"The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus." Truly the former cries brought us out here, and the third makes plain our duty, while waiting the return of the Nobleman.