Reforming the Laodicean Heart
By A. A. Marks
BRO. SMITH: Although as I look at the straitness of the way, and see the message rising, I fear for myself lest I should not rise with it, yet I rejoice to see the work of God move on. Though opposed on every hand, yet a people that will give up all for heaven, will go through, keeping the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus. Among that people I want my lot cast, and with them I wish to share in the reward that will be given to the saints. But I must give up all for the truth, and obtain the gold tried in the fire, the white raiment and the eye-salve, if I would have salvation when Jesus comes. I have acknowledged the testimony to the Laodiceans to apply to us, but I have not been as zealous in reforming as I should have been. I want the door of my heart open and Jesus to come in and sup with me and I with him. Dear brethren and sisters, let us not bar the Saviour out of our hearts. We shall do it if we have any idols there, or if we cleave to the things of this world instead of helping to carry forward the work of God. The closing work of salvation, and the time of trouble are just before us, and if we would have God for our friend then, we must be found trying to advance his cause now. The work will go forward, whether we participate in it or not. God has no need of us; but there is a time coming when we shall need him. Yes, we shall need a friend that will stick closer than a brother. I feel like crying to God to spare his people, and save us from being spued of his mouth. I want that consecration that will abide the storm that is coming, and that faith that overcomes the world. "Wake up brother! wake up sister!
Seek, O seek this holy state,
None but holy ones can enter
Through the pure, celestial gate."
A. A. MARKS. Jackson, Mich., Dec. 17th, 1857.