Encouragement for the Isolated Believer
By A. Yorty
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I feel as though it would be a privilege to speak a few words through the Review to those situated as I am, alone, having no one to look to for instruction, no one of like precious faith to converse with upon the holy Sabbath. But the Review comes a welcome visitor laden with precious truths from the treasure-house. It is the only means I have of hearing or knowing anything of the Advent faith, and the trials and progress of believers in the present truth. I was much rejoiced when I heard that Bro. Waggoner was to pass through Wisconsin, hoping he would come this way and present the truth to a dying people; but as duty otherwise called him, I hope some other brother will come soon. I have many trials to pass through, but all that are faithful to God will soon meet their reward. We read in Rom. viii, 28, All things work together for good to them that love God. Do we realize that this precious promise is ours? How kind and compassionate is our heavenly Parent, to give us unworthy creatures so many sweet and soul-cheering promises as we find in his Word. Well did an all-wise Father know that we should be tried, and suffer in his cause, and at times be tempted to forsake him; but praise his holy name, he has in wisdom and love meted out to us many encouraging promises, some of which we can take hold of by faith in every emergency of life, knowing that he is faithful who hath promised, and knowing, too, that the Lord is not slack concerning his promise, but is long-suffering to us ward. My heart's desire and prayer to God is that I may through his almighty grace stand the fierce darts of persecution through which I am called to pass. Pray for me, my dear brethren and sisters, that I may at last meet you where parting will be no more. In this world are many snares and bitter persecutions to intercept our way, but let us have on the whole armor of God that we may be found clothed, and not naked, when Christ comes. Brethren, I often read of your conferences and meetings, and long to be there; but that privilege is denied me; but I do ask to be remembered in your prayers, that I may be kept from the temptations of this world. Your unworthy sister waiting for the coming of Christ.
A. YORTY.
Brandon, Wis., June, 1858.