MOVING WEST by James White

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 7, 1857

MOVING WEST.

By James White

For some time past we have been thinking of saying something on the subject of Eastern brethren moving to the West; but have hesitated, fearing that we should not do the subject justice. But as it has, in our opinion, become a matter of considerable importance, we venture. It has become important, because of the great work to be done in the West, the few laborers there, and experienced Eastern brethren are much needed. Also there is danger of some going West who have no duty there, who may suffer privations and much loss, hence the true object, or objects of going West should be considered.

The great object before true believers in the speedy coming of Christ in going West, will be to lead souls to an understanding of Bible truth, and to the foot of the cross of Jesus Christ.

Another object in moving West to those inclined to consumption, is to enjoy the longer mild season of the year, the less changeable weather, and the dryer atmosphere west of the lakes. But let them not wait till it is too late to recover.

Poor mechanics may do well in the West; but, generally, the poor who move to the West to purchase lands, are disappointed in the prices of lands, the cost of fences and buildings, and the breaking up of lands. They cost more than they expected. It will take such, with good prosperity, several years to become in comfortable circumstances, free from debt. During this time they are doomed to hard labor, and some, at least, privations. They cannot help advance the cause, for all they can do is to pay their debts for lands, &c. And all the while they are laying up treasures on earth. Here is a snare they will do well to shun. But the greatest danger is before our brethren who go West at this late hour, with means to purchase largely of the productive lands of the West. We cannot see how any brother can do it without losing his faith in the present truth. This is not the time to buy largely, but, rather, to sell.

But that God has called some to move to the West who have means, experience and talent to use in his cause, we have no doubt. That such have been greatly in danger of not fulfilling their mission, is evident. God grant that they may lead off, like men that wait for their Lord from heaven, and set an example to those who join the ranks there.

We would say to those in the East, who have toiled year after year to pull a very few souls out of the fire, that the same efforts in the West, or even here in Michigan, would convert twenty to the truth, where you have seen one conversion. We may say that there are almost daily conversions to the Bible Sabbath in towns around us; and even in this village eight or ten precious souls have joined us within a few weeks. Some of our best prayer-meetings are part in English and part in French. Two whole families, and a part of another, of the French Baptists, who are our nearest neighbors, are Sabbath-keepers. Wherever you may go, the people want to hear, and many are ready to obey. If you can feel the approbation of the great Shepherd of the sheep, to come to this field of labor, in Michigan and the West, come. Here is work enough to do. We have labored in the East and in the West, and speak the things we know. And no consideration whatever, excepting a sense of positive duty, could induce us at present to labor on the gospel-hardened shores of New England, while so much can be done in the wide West. Help is needed, and those who have had the courage to breast the storm, and the patience to toil on to accomplish so little as has been done in the East, are the help that is wanted. Let all move in the counsel of God.

J. W.