Making Our Calling Sure
By Julius I. Bostwick
BRO. SMITH: Feeling as I do a strong desire and a firm determination by God's assisting grace to make my calling and election sure, I am resolved to make use of those means that are placed in my reach to accomplish this desirable and all-important object. One of the means by which we may strengthen and encourage each other is by communicating our joys, our sorrows and determinations, and endeavoring to encourage each other to persevere in that straight and narrow way that leads to eternal life. I take great pleasure in reading the Review, especially the communications from those of like precious faith, who are scattered abroad. It is cheering to hear others express in a few simple words their determinations to press their way on in the christian course in spite of every obstacle which may be thrown in the way. We have every reason to believe that the counsel to the Laodiceans is to the remnant; and I for one feel the reproof, and am resolved to renounce the vain allurements of this world, and lay up a treasure in heaven, where moth and rust doth not corrupt nor thieves break through and steal; to heed the counsel of the true Witness, and buy gold tried in the fire that I may be rich, and white raiment that I may be clothed, and anoint my eyes with eye-salve that I may see and understand the Lord's will concerning me. I feel sensible of my weakness and my unworthiness and desire an interest in your prayers that I may be zealous and repent; that I may open the door and receive the dear Saviour; that I may overcome and be permitted to sit with him on his throne. The time is fast approaching, and we believe it to be very near when the Son of man will be revealed from heaven, taking vengeance on the ungodly, and all who obey not the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Let us then who profess faith in the Message of the Third Angel use all diligence in preparing for the solemn yet glorious event. It rejoices my heart when I meditate upon these things, and realize that we may soon be delivered from this vain, delusive world. I am to some extent entangled in worldly things, having a family to provide for, which necessarily demands a great share of my attention; but if we are right at heart we shall glorify God in all that we do. I am resolved, as far as possible, to extricate myself from the cares and snares incident to this life, and make it my first business to prepare for my last great change. Yours in hope of eternal life. Stockton, Ills., March 15th, 1857.