Forgiveness and Unity Among Believers
By L. Drake
Bro. Smith:—I am aware that the remnant have many trials to pass through, and the dragon is to make war with those that keep the Commandments of God, and have the Testimony of Jesus Christ. As regards the manner in which this war will commence, will it not be to divide and scatter the flock? will it not be to make little difficulties to arise and grow to almost mountains in our own eyes? I fear the remnant have given ground to the enemy in this respect. Should we not get on the whole armor and use the weapons of our warfare which are not carnal, but spiritual, and fight the good fight of faith? If we would have our faults forgiven in heaven, we should forgive one another on earth. I believe it should be a pleasure to forgive one another their trespasses when confessed, and I believe we should be as willing to confess our own faults, as to forgive others their faults when confessed. With the same degree of pleasure we forgive, we may expect to be forgiven in heaven. Then let us confess our faults one to another, and forgive one another that all our sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. I feel myself one of the least of the followers of the Lamb, but I want a place with them. I rejoice in the present truth. I want to be sanctified through it, and live a daily Christian. I want to live in such a manner that it may say to those around that this world is not my home, but that I am looking for a city that hath foundations, whose maker and builder is God. Dear brethren and sisters, are we prepared for things for which we are looking? Have we on the wedding garment? Are we without fault? Are we without guile in our mouths? Let us look at ourselves! How important it is that we be all united and love one another as Jesus loved us. If we would be loved, we should show our love by our works. Love begets love. I feel to sympathize with those connected with the Office, realizing the responsibility that rests upon them, and those who have long borne the burden and heat of the day. Yours in hope of being an overcomer.
L. Drake.
March 11th, 1856.