Encouragement from a Solitary Believer
By H. S. Boyd
Dear Bro. White:—It is an injunction in the New Testament to speak often one to another, and so much the more as we see the day approaching; and as I do not often have the privilege of meeting with the brethren, it would be a pleasure to say a word through the Review. I would acknowledge the goodness of God to me while almost alone here in the faith. I can say with the Prophet, His mercies continue till evening and renew every morning. I feel thankful that God has given me grace to step out, and keep the Sabbath, and has so far sustained me, though surrounded with temptations and trials. I can say as did St. Paul in 2 Cor. iv, 8, 9; and I find consolation in reading of the path trod by the prophets, apostles and good men of old; and in the precious promises all through the Word of God, especially such as those of our Saviour in his sermon on the mount. Matt. v, 3-12. I feel, for one, to trust him who has promised and cannot lie; him who will not suffer us to be tempted above what we are able to bear, but will, with the temptation, make a way for our escape. I would say to the dear brethren and sisters whom I met at the Washington conference, I am still striving for the kingdom. The meeting there was, to me, a glorious season. Although a stranger, I enjoyed the society of those I hope to meet in the New Jerusalem. Yea, I trust they will be of the general assembly and church of the first born. Finally, brethren, pray for us. When I bow in secret prayer, or at the family altar, I feel it a privilege to pray for the brethren, that their strength fail not; especially for those who have borne the burden and heat of the day; who have long since given up all, and devoted their whole time and means to win souls to Christ. Let us consider those who have suffered privations, and the loss of all that is dear in this world, for the truth's sake; by whose means many of us have been brought to the knowledge of the truth. Those who have sown in tears will soon reap in joy. Yes; for God has said [Ps. cxxvi, 6,] He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. That we may fear God and keep all his commandments, acknowledge him in all our ways, love one another as Christ loved us, and be found of him in peace, without spot and blameless at his coming, is the prayer of your unworthy brother,
H. S. Boyd.
Lyme, N. H., Dec. 29th, 1853.