Awakening from Lukewarmness
By Maria C. Trembly
Dear Brethren and Sisters: I have long neglected this duty on the account of my inability, but knowing as I do, that all that love the Lord have a work to do, I thought I would cast in my mite with the people of God. I have been cheered and comforted whilst perusing the columns of the Review. When I saw Bro. White's first article on the message to the Laodiceans, it went like an arrow to my heart. I felt that I was one that was in a lukewarm state, and that I must have a great work done for me before I should be ready to meet my Saviour. I felt that I must start anew and in earnest, but hardly knew where to begin, till Brn. Holt and Cornell came here, who faithfully pointed out our wretched condition, and set it home to my heart more powerfully. I began to arouse from my lethargy, and to examine my heart more diligently, and found it very corrupt. Pride and a worldly-minded spirit had almost taken possession of my heart. I then saw that I was indeed wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind and naked. I resolved to heed the counsel of the faithful and true Witness, to be zealous and repent. I felt like confessing to my friends and neighbors that I had come far short of living out my profession by my daily examples. The Lord blessed me in so-doing, and I gained some strength. Although keen and cutting trials I have to pass through, yet the grace of God is sufficient for me; and I feel to praise his name for what he has done for me, and if I am faithful to the end, he will be my shield in the time of trouble. I can say to my brethren and sisters that I prize the visions very highly. I feel that they were given to us in these last days for our benefit and encouragement. I can truly say that they have been a source of consolation and encouragement to me. I feel to praise the Lord. O praise the Lord for what he is doing for his people! Let us be more thankful for what we have received, if we would see the gifts bestowed upon the church. Come let us gird ourselves anew, and put on the whole armor and fight manfully the battles of the Lord. The time for doing will soon be past; when those that are holy will be holy still, and those that are filthy will be filthy still. May the Lord bless the brethren with the Michigan tent, and crown their labors with success wherever they go. We hope the way will open for them to come this way. We feel anxious for the people in this vicinity, and think there might be good done here. May the Lord help us to buy the gold tried in the fire, and white raiment that we may be clothed with the garment of righteousness, and be prepared to stand on mount Zion, is the prayer of your unworthy sister striving for the kingdom. Bath, Mich., June 27th, 1857.