Courage Amid Trials and Darkness
By Lucretia B. Abbey
BRO. SMITH:—I have long been thinking of writing a few words, to let the scattered flock know that we are still trying in this place, to live, and keep the armor on, though some portions of it are not as bright as would be well pleasing to our heavenly Father; especially our shield. Nevertheless we are, through the abundant mercy of our God, enabled to rejoice in his excellent name. Last Sabbath, week, we felt to take new courage, and covenant anew to overcome all our besetting sins, and the darkness that surrounds us, that we may be able to stand in the great day of the Lord, which is so near upon us. Signs that the great and terrible day of the Lord is near, are fast thickening around us. O how important to be in readiness for that day. I do rejoice that my eyes have been opened to see the light that is now shining on our pathway, which leads to the celestial city; and also that my ears have been opened to hear the glad sound of "this gospel of the kingdom," which is soon to be set up, upon the new earth. We are not without our trials; but these "light afflictions which are but for a moment, shall work out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;" which will be revealed in us at the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ; when "he shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." O! how dreadful will be that day to those who are not in readiness, with what anguish of soul will they meet the eyes of their Judge. Our prayer is, Lord, drive stupidity from us, help us to arise and put on strength, and "gird up the loins of our mind, be sober, and hope to the end, for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ." Our prayer for Zion is, that she may arise and put on her beautiful garments, "fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners." We must have our lives tell that we believe what we profess to; words are of but little amount, compared to our example. O brethren and sisters, let us set right examples, not let it be said of us, "They say and do not." And now may the exhortation of Paul be heeded in the whole house of Israel, "See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men; rejoice evermore; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." "Quench not the Spirit; despise not prophesyings; prove all things; hold fast that which is good; abstain from all appearance of evil; and the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you who also will do it. Brethren, pray for us." Yours hoping for a treasure in the New Earth. LUCRETIA B. ABBEY. North Brookfield, June 8th, 1856. P. S. I would not be forgetful to express my gratitude to my heavenly Father, and also to my friends for the receipt of the Review, which brings glad tidings, which cheers us on our pilgrimage journey through this dark wilderness. My prayer is for those who write, that they may still be enabled to bring treasures new and old out of the store-house of our God. L. B. A.