p. 71 | Extracts from Letters by Editor

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jan 7, 1858

Extracts from Letters.

By Editor

Bro. & Sr. J. & S. Clarke write from Portage, Ohio: "There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, over one that turns away from the delusions of Satan. Even so we rejoice, when we see our neighbors receiving the truth. Our little number is reinforced. We feel that the Lord has a blessing in store for us. Praise his holy name. The work is his. Others in this vicinity are anxious about their future prospects. Bro. Holt's effort here last Summer left a very deep impression, although he felt rather discouraged that no immediate answer to his prayers was granted. Let him take courage, the work is going on. The seed is taking root. Oh pray for us poor and unworthy, and for this part of the vineyard.

"Our spiritual strength is renewed. We begin to realize the fullness of the promise. We see that we must give all to God. Jehovah will not accept a fraction. He demands the heart, the mind, the body, the gold, the silver, the land. The cattle upon a thousand hills are his. The hills, the valleys, and the plains are his. Thou, O Lord, art our Lord, our proprietor, and we are thy servants.

"There is much feeling, much anxiety, and there is a wave of opposition rising in a corresponding degree in this vicinity. We hope that a work is to be done here which will result in the salvation of many.

"We often think of an idea advanced by Bro. Cottrell, that when we warn the saints to flee out of Babylon, away from its vanities and defilements, that there should be some place for them to flee to, free from these things. Oh for purity of heart and life! Let us eschew, not chew, or smoke, or snuff the abominable, filthy weed which is debasing and impoverishing the world. Let us be sober, not drunk. God will have a pure people to welcome him at his coming, and I fully believe that those who persist in these sinful practices, will lose the prize.

"Oh, is it so! Are we on the very shores of eternity! "Is it so! Has prophetic time closed! "Is it so! Are we now having and giving the last cry!

"Then can we clutch the world in these hands, these mortal hands? Must we soon see the Son of man coming in power and glory, and yet eat and drink the dainties of life?

"Can we deck these mortal bodies with broadcloths, and silks, and indecent attire? Can we provide for the future by laying up the gold that perisheth? Oh, no. The saints will be ready, and this will show who are looking for Christ; his elect will be weaned from the world, stripped of wealth for the cause, the blessed cause of the dear Redeemer, who had not where to lay his head.

"We feel that the Review has been the means of much benefit to us. May God speed it onward. Let us not rest until the message rings in a clear trumpet tone around the globe. For this let us be wise. For this let us pray and labor. Yours in Christ."