SARAH E. BATES by Sarah E. Bates

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 3, 1859

SARAH E. BATES

By Sarah E. Bates

From Sister Bates.

BRO. SMITH : I am still striving to keep the commandments, and feel to say with the Psalmist, The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the commandments of the Lord are pure, enlightening the eyes; more to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold. Moreover by them is thy servant warned, and in keeping of them there is great reward.

When Bro. Frisbie first came to lecture in this place I thought he was an impostor; but when I heard him for myself, I saw that he taught the doctrine of the Bible, and I must receive it, or reject it to my own condemnation. And now as the messengers come this way and deliver to us strait testimony and Bible truths, something within me seems to say, Truly these are the servants of the Most High God. And O, may I ever follow the Bible instead of the teachings of men. Though I lose all in this life, I am determined to strive to walk in the straight and narrow path that leads to life. This world looks very dark and dreary to me, filled with pride and vanity. Truly there is no pleasure for me in such empty things. I long to go where our joys will be lasting, our pleasures never end; where sickness and sorrow can never come.

O how good it is to get our thoughts and affections

elevated far above earthly things, and our souls filled with the love of God! Yes, religion pays well, both in this life and in the world to come. The church here are striving to arise. We have had some good meetings this Winter.

Your unworthy sister.

SARAH E. BATES

Gaines, Mich.