Holding Fast Amid Surrounding Darkness
By Mary F. Carpenter
Bro. Smith: I am still striving to hold on my way, amidst the surrounding darkness. I am thankful for the privilege of reading the Review, and it is my prayer that the dear saints that have come out from the world, and from the fallen churches, to keep all the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ, may grow stronger and stronger in the Lord, and in the power of his might. I rejoice to hear that precious souls are embracing the truth. I could heartily say amen to Bro. Cornell's prayer, "O Lord speed on thy servants to the honest waiting ones." I feel that the Bible truths advocated in the Review are very precious to me, and I want every one to have them that has any room in their hearts for the truth. Those whose hearts are so full of tradition, prejudice, and the love of the world, that they cannot receive the truth are to be pitied; and I would crave the prayers of all my brethren and sisters, for the people here and for my family, that they may see their perilous condition. There are a goodly number here that I have formerly esteemed very highly in love for their work's sake, and I often feel to say, "How shall I thee up give?" "How can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?" May God have mercy upon them, and give them to see their condition before it is too late. I am glad for the cheering letters from the brethren and sisters, and I hope others will write. I hope also that those brethren and sisters who have the privilege of meeting on the Sabbath, and in prayer meetings with those of like precious faith, will remember the lonely ones, and pray that God would give us wisdom at all times, to walk worthy of our high and holy calling. Your sister hoping for eternal life. Waterville, Vt., Feb. 22d, 1858.