Pressing On in the Faith
By E. S. Sheffield
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—The paper I have read with much pleasure and profit. There are some things that seem discouraging, but I feel to thank the Lord that there is much more to encourage than to discourage us; for I know that they are more that are for us than all they that are against us. I have felt sorrowful when I have heard of some, that, after they have known the right way, and have walked therein for a little season, have become discouraged. But I find that it was even so in the days of the apostles; for to some, Paul said, ye did run well, who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth. Jesus himself said, that because iniquity should abound the love of many should wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end the same shall be saved. Then these things should not discourage us. O, no. I feel to take new courage and press on, and say, I know in whom I have believed. I am one that came in at the eleventh hour, and I do feel to love all the brethren, especially those who have borne the heat and burden of the day, and stood firmly on the side of truth when the third angel first began to sound.—Though few in number, their trust was in the word of God. I long to see you all, but do not expect to, until your hopes are realized, your faith lost in sight, if then I am so unspeakably happy as to be one of your number. Your brother in hope, E. S. SHEFFIELD. Fort Atkinson, Wis., Oct. 28th, 1852.