A Scattered Believer’s Experience
By J. Whitenack
Bro. SMITH: When I saw the request of Bro. Clarke for a love-feast or class-meeting to be held through the medium of our paper, I felt much pleased with the plan, as I am one of the lonely ones, and feel much encouraged and blessed by reading the experience and views of the dear scattered remnant. They speak my feelings, hopes and fears better than I can write them myself. When I see the names of those with whom I have formed a slight, but pleasing acquaintance, my heart leaps with joy to learn that they are trying to hold up the light of present truth amidst the opposition and trials they have to contend with, and my prayer is that God will bless and crown their labors with success, and that I with them may not shun to declare the whole truth. I do feel a strong desire to open the door of my heart, and invite the dear Saviour in to sup with me. I want him to restore unto me the joys of his salvation, and uphold me by his free Spirit. I too often feel like one of old who went down out of the ship to walk on the water to meet the blessed Jesus. The troublesome waves almost bury me; but when I look to him he puts underneath his helping hand. I am encouraged to hope on, and by the grace of God I trust to meet the remnant on mount Zion. I had the privilege of meeting with the church in Catlin not long since. It was a good and profitable meeting. All seemed to be striving to keep the unity of the Spirit and walk by faith. The good Spirit ran from heart to heart. I feel the need of an interest in the prayers of God's people as I have much to contend with. My family and friends all oppose the Sabbath, and I have to contend with spiritual wickedness in high places, besides an evil heart of unbelief. I view myself less than the least; but by the grace of God I am what I am, and I hope to stand as a sign and a wonder in Israel, and at last meet the blood-washed company in the kingdom of God's dear Son. Your brother seeking for eternal life.
J. WHITENACK.
Painted Post, N. Y., Apr. 4th, 1859.