Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another.
From Bro. Abbey.
BRO. SMITH: We still have a desire to see the goodly land which the ancient prophets and patriarchs saw afar off by faith, which is now brought nigh by events which tell the near approach of the coming King. I feel at times something of the importance of these moments, but do not at all times fully realize it as I should. I am still determined to make an effort according to the object to be obtained.
When I look at the prize for which we are striving, it causes new life to spring up, and I feel like renewing my efforts to gain the victory. Eternal life is an object that should engage our whole being in order to obtain it. It is not to be obtained by mere desires: it will require a whole sacrifice. As it has cost the greatest sacrifice that ever was made to purchase the salvation of mankind, it will require a corresponding effort on their part. And shall we not be willing to make the sacrifice, when so much depends upon our acting in obedience to the requirements of the gospel? I feel by the grace of God I will try to have the sacrifice consume, self and all. I find that self is the worst foe I have to contend with, it has so many ways to manifest itself. It will appear on all sides, as though it was very unwilling to be made a sacrifice; but the grace of God is sufficient; if it were not for that I should despair. But, onward is the watch-word, and victory is sure.
We hail the weekly Review, and prize it as one of our best friends, and I know not but I may say, as our best, aside from the Bible. I earnestly desire to realize the importance of these moments, and so improve them that I may finally gain an inheritance with all the saints.
An unprofitable servant.
ALONZO ABBEY.
North Brookfield, N. Y., May 18th, 1858.