A Bible Student’s Christian Experience
By D. P. Hall
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—Nine years have nearly passed since I became a resident of Wisconsin. When I first came to this State, I had no idea of glorifying God in any of my plans or practices. I was a practical Infidel, although a professed believer in the ultimate holiness and happiness of all mankind. This state of mind continued for about two years. Then I was providentially called to the investigation of the True Source of Immortality. This opened my mind and led to a more thorough examination of the Scriptures on other points. After a careful examination of about six months, with all the necessary aid, I came to the conclusion that the establishment of the Kingdom of God was an event immediately to transpire. I have from that time been styled an Adventist. Here commenced my experience as a Bible Student. Not long after this, God showed me very plainly my duty to proclaim these glorious truths; and I have been endeavoring ever since, according to the24ability God has given, to discharge my duty in these matters. During seven years of Christian experience, many things have transpired of a discouraging character, but the bitter cup has always been sweetened by tokens of divine favor and approbation. In the early part of my experience as a messenger in Northern Wisconsin I was entirely alone, not another voice in this wide region sounding the alarm; but the times are changed—an event long prayed for. There are now other voices crying aloud and sparing not. Brn. Stewart, Phelps, Waggoner, Stephenson and some others. For this I thank God and take courage. Oh Lord send more Laborers into this field, and enable those already in, to discharge their duty faithfully. There are at this time quite a goodly number of those who profess faith in the present truth; but I am fearful that many of us need sifting and trying. This the Lord will undoubtedly give us. When I look into the Word and see its requirements, I awfully fear and tremble for myself and others. Who can be saved? I am satisfied that the truth is held by many of us in this State too much as a theory—that it does not produce that solemnity and dignity of deportment it should. My constant prayer is, Lord show us our true condition before thee, while we have a remedy. Our position in the light of present truth is truly solemn and interesting. The ministration of Christ in the Most Holy Place, the thought that perhaps our cases are at this moment, passing in review before the Judge of all the earth is truly thrilling. God forbid that we should slumber, at this all-important crisis. O God help us to arouse and put forth every energy. Yours in hope of the soon coming of Jesus,
D. P. HALL.
Rosendale, Wis., Jan. 23d, 1854.