Striving for the Prize of Eternal Life
By Electa Richmond
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—It is with pleasure we read the Review and feel to praise the Lord for the truth it contains. I have been a believer in the second coming of Christ nigh even at the doors ever since 1843-4, and can truly say that my path is as a shining light that shineth more and more; and I hope that through the goodness and long-suffering of God, I shall be led in that straight and narrow path that leads to eternal life. Though almost all my friends, according to the flesh, think me very foolish, yet I feel that Jesus is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. I praise the Lord that he has ever been mindful of so unworthy a creature as myself. My heart is cheered when I hear through the Review of the many that are being brought to the knowledge of the truth through the third angel's message. I believe that soon the number will be made up, and sealed with the seal of the living God. Shall I be one? My longing heart cries out, I must be one! I mean to strive, and by the help of Jesus, be among those that shall be redeemed from the earth. I want to be more like Jesus, and have the evidence from day to day that my ways please God. My dear brethren and sisters, let us be encouraged to leave the things that are behind, and reach forward to those things that are before. Let us press for the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Evidences are fast thickening around us that tell that Jesus is soon coming. His work is almost done in the Sanctuary; and then every case will be decided. O let us realize the time in which we live, and lay up our treasure in heaven. We need on the whole armor, that we may be able to stand in this evil time. Let us remember that Jesus has overcome the world, the flesh, and the enemy. Praise his holy name, I mean to keep all the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus, and overcome, and have right to the tree of life, and enter in through the gates into the city. Your unworthy sister, ELECTA RICHMOND.
Ashfield, Mass.