Trying to Keep the Commandments
By Olive A. Wheeler
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—As I have been much comforted by reading the communications in the Review, I would like to say to the dear brethren and sisters scattered abroad, I am still trying to keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And hope to overcome by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of my testimony. Within the last year I have passed through some severe trials; but I feel to thank and praise our dear Heavenly Father that he has led me on thus far, and not forsaken me; and for the sweet peace I enjoy in trying to keep his commandments. And says the Apostle, by this we may know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep his commandments. I do feel to rejoice that I know that I love the children of God; and that I have chosen to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. But I feel solemn, in view of the time in which we live. The third angel's message is sounding. The last message without any mixture of mercy. Our Great High Priest is finishing his work in the Sanctuary, and he will soon put off his priestly attire, and take his seat upon the white cloud; and then, O then is the solemn declaration, he, that is filthy let him be filthy still, and he that is holy let him be holy still. In view of what is before us, my heart cries out, shall I be able to stand. Blessed are the pure in heart (says our dear Saviour) for they shall see God. O praise the Lord for his sure promises. He will never leave nor forsake us. If we do his commandments, we may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. There is a little band of Sabbath-keepers in this place, who are striving to overcome and gain the kingdom. There has been much opposition and prejudice here, against our views; but I feel to rejoice that some are beginning to search to see if these things are so. Within a few weeks, four have decided to keep the Sabbath of the Lord. We were favored with the labors of Brn. Sperry and Buck, according to their appointment, and we trust their labors will not be in vain in this place. Prejudice appears to be removed, and we are satisfied that a number are convinced of the truth. It is a matter of great consolation that the Lord has set his hand to the work of gathering the remnant of his people, and I can truly say, O how I long to see that day,
When the redeemed shall come
To Zion, clad in white array,
Their blissful, happy home.
Yours striving for the kingdom.
OLIVE. A. WHEELER.
Eaton, C. E., Feb. 19th, 1854.