p. 142 | LETTERS by E. M. Hutchins

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 18, 1858

LETTERS.

By E. M. Hutchins

"Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another."

From Sister Hutchins.

DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I have been greatly encouraged of late. For some time past gloom has hung over my mind. Though in this time I had seasons of rejoicing, when my spirits were free, my hope high, and my confidence in the Lord strong, again discouragements weighed heavily upon me. But recently I have been enabled in some degree to rise above this state of feeling. I have seen the work of the Lord prospering and progressing among his people, and if possible my confidence that the church are coming up, has greatly increased.

But in my own heart there has been a change. I have ever believed that all the people of God have a work to do. None so small but, if in the place God would have them, they can be a help. Since embracing the Third Angel's Message, I have greatly feared I should be found an idler in the cause of God. But I have not directed my attention to the right source for strength. I have looked to my weakness, and inability to perform a duty, till in view of this and my responsibility, I have at times almost sunk in discouragement. Yet through the grace of God given me, I have endeavored to discharge my duty, and the Lord has blessed me. But I think I have many times been bound by these feelings, and through fear, which has not been pleasing to God.

Of late I have tried to get the victory. I have sought to draw near to God, and he has drawn near to me. I have endeavored to throw off feelings that would hinder me from engaging in the work of God heartily, and with courage, and am resolved to do what I can, and in all that I do to study to show myself approved unto God. And as I have endeavored to do thus, I have felt a nearness to Christ that I cannot describe. It has seemed to me, heaven never possessed so many attractions for me as now. I have seen new beauties in the plan of salvation; and the path of the Christian, though it may be rough, looks pleasant and easy when compared with the "far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory," that awaits the faithful. When I think of overcoming, to sit down with Jesus on his throne, the suffering part of religion looks desirable; and I pity the poor soul, who through fear, shuns to bear the cross, and as a consequence, loses heaven. From a full heart I can say, let such have the world, if they choose, but give me Jesus. Let me suffer with him, let me share in the trials, and help bear the burdens of his people, and meet their reward; but "gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men."

I never felt more like burying myself in the work of God than now. I see there are trials ahead. The shaking time is before us, and if we are not found with the truth for our shield and buckler, and clothed with the righteousness of Christ, we shall not be able to stand.

O brethren and sisters, get into the work of the Lord, and let his work have a large place in your hearts. Let the truths of the Third Angel's Message purify you. There is power enough in the truth to do this, if you will only let it work upon your hearts. But remember if you would inherit all things, you must give all. You may give a part, but that will not do. You cannot become heirs of eternal life at so cheap a rate. Jesus requires the whole heart, and he will not accept of anything short of this.

But there are conflicts ahead. Let us, brethren and sisters, strive for the unity of the faith. We must press together. We are not going to the kingdom scattered and divided. If we attempt to push off by ourselves, or get into little companies, we shall run away from God, lose his Spirit, and be left to perish. "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." 1 Cor. xiv, 33.

Says the Apostle, "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind, and in the same judgment." 1 Cor. i, 10.

I feel quite certain that when the Lord lets the light shine upon any portion of his word, that the remnant who are walking in the light, will be prepared to see and rejoice in it together. Let us then be careful to follow the good Shepherd, and not a stranger; but keep with the body, and with Elisha say, "As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee."

In hope of being found with the Israel of God when the chief Shepherd shall appear. E. M. HUTCHINS. Battle Creek, Mich., March 6th, 1854.