DEAR BRO. WHITE:—Since the Stowe Conference, last Autumn which I attended, I have been striving to obey God in keeping all of his commandments. For months previous to that meeting, I was firmly convinced that the seventh day was the only Sabbath of the Bible; but still I could not make up my mind to bear the reproach of keeping it.
Perhaps it would not be out of place, to give you a brief history of my experience, and the manner of my coming to a knowledge of the truth. Nearly two years ago, I received intelligence that some relatives of mine, residing in Vermont, had changed their views in regard to the Sabbath, and instead of keeping the first, had commenced keeping the seventh-day. I was surprised, and could hardly credit the report; but yet I had a desire to know something about it. They were friends that I loved, and respected, and I thought that there must be some strong reasons for their embracing so strange a belief. I visited them shortly after, they pointed out the reasons of their faith, and asked me to read my Bible more, and see if their views and the word harmonized. I read my Bible, but with the expectation of finding sufficient proof to overthrow their belief. But I found myself sadly disappointed. It seemed to me that every word I read, went to prove that they were right. I left them, and returned to this place again; but I could not forget the poor, despised Sabbath-keepers. Up to this time I had never made a profession of religion; but I began to think of the importance of having a hope in Christ as never before. I commenced going to church, prayed to God for forgiveness of past sins, and thought that I experienced a change of heart. But I was not happy as I thought the young converts ought to be. When I read my Bible the commandments would come up, and I could not feel right. I was taken on trial in the Methodist church. I saw so much pride, popularity, and fashion among the professed christians, as to cause the inquiry sometimes to arise, Are they the true disciples of Jesus : I had always thought that religion, instead of making persons popular, would cause them to be more humble, meek, and lowly. I was truly desirous to become a true-hearted Christian : yet I felt so unhappy, that I doubted the sincerity of my own heart. I prayed to God to direct me aright, and thanks be to his name, he heard my prayer. I was called very suddenly to return to Vermont with a sister of mine who was dangerously ill. Once again amongst the Sabbath-keepers, I could not longer withstand the truth. The more I investigated the subject, the brighter the light shone on the Sabbath. I attended several meetings, all of which tended to strengthen my views especially the one at Stowe. What I there witnessed confirmed me in the truth of the position we occupy. I resolved by the grace of God assisting me, to strive to keep the commandments, that I might have a right to the tree of Life. And never have I regretted it, though I have met with temptations, and trials on every side. Friends have reproached and entreated, yet the grace of God has enabled me to stand. I know of no one of like faith in this place, and brethren and sisters, I claim your prayers; O when you kneel at the throne of grace forget not the Lambs of the flock. Remember their youth and inexperience, and pray the more earnestly for them.