A Family Embraces the Sabbath
By Susan Elmer
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—For the encouragement of others, especially of parents, I would write a few lines; and should it any way encourage the dear saints I shall be doubly compensated. Several years ago it came forcibly to my mind that the seventh day was the Sabbath. I could not see how such reasoning as is brought to support the first day could lay aside the claims of so plain a commandment as God had given us, but still I did not keep it. It seemed as though I could not, as I was alone. I soon quieted my conscience by reasoning thus: if I keep the Sabbath I shall be disturbed by those who keep the first day, and I too shall disturb them. A poor excuse indeed. Thus I went on as before until one day I saw a piece on the Sabbath, written by Bro. Bates. I then commenced keeping it. After I had kept a few Sabbaths, being opposed, and as it did not meet the views of my husband and children, I was tempted to think I might be wrong, and in order to make peace again I kept the first day; but my disobedience was severely tried, for I thought if I kept the seventh day I might be wrong, and to keep the first day I was afraid was not right; but very soon I became established that the seventh day was the Sabbath, and O what light burst into my mind. The Bible was indeed a new book to me. My eldest daughter likewise kept the Sabbath with me, and it was not long before my companion joined us. And now how anxious I was that the rest of my children might embrace the truth. But I almost despaired of my other daughter's receiving it, she was so accustomed to the popularity and fashions of the world; but I commended her into the hand of God, and at a protracted meeting, for the first time I beheld her on her knees. I will not attempt to describe my feelings nor the joy that filled my heart as I joined the fervent prayers that ascended the throne of grace for her. From that time she kept the Sabbath. Time passed on. I still endeavored to persuade my two sons of the necessity of embracing the last call of mercy; but when I saw their indifference and heard their vain reasoning in order to evade the truth, my heart was pained, and I would go to God and often in the anguish of my spirit implore his aid. One thing which I feared would prove a snare to them was, they were striving for an education. The youngest of the two went to the select school with an intention of going through college; but while engaged at his studies the Spirit strove with him. He became so troubled that he finally left school, requested to have his books sold, and after a thorough investigation he came out decided on the side of truth. And now I could say, "My son is dead and is alive again, was lost and now is found." Thus the Lord has dealt with me. Oh! for a heart to praise him more; for he is good, his tender mercy endureth for ever. I do desire to be consecrated entirely to his service. And now I would say, you that are parents, let your earnest prayers go up night and day for your children. He that goeth forth weeping, bearing precious seed shall doubtless return again with joy, bringing his sheaves with him. Your unworthy sister. SUSAN ELMER. Buckland, Mass., June 25th, 1855.