A Call to Watchfulness
By Helen E. Goodell
Bro. Smith: I have been the only Sabbath-keeper in this place since April, 1857, until last winter, when my Father (W. Phelps) came here, and delivered a course of lectures on the prophecies, and preached several times on different subjects, which served to open the eyes of the honest ones who came to hear. The brethren and sisters seem to be much engaged in their Master's cause, and I, for one, feel more than ever before, like pressing my way onward and upward, till I reach the heavenly Canaan. We meet together every Sabbath to give in our testimonies on the side of truth, and to pray with and for each other. Besides our Sabbath meetings, we have one or two prayer-meetings during the week. I believe the cause is still gaining ground here, and there are some more who wish to be baptized the first opportunity. I feel that the time for us to awake is now. I believe the time is shorter than most of us think, and what we do must be done quickly. O let us be up and doing while the day lasts. Let us not sleep as do others, but watch and be sober. As some of the brethren and sisters are confessing their faults one to another, I take the present opportunity to confess mine, for I feel it my duty. I think no one has committed more sin than myself in speaking hard things against the gift of prophecy manifested in the church; but thanks be to God, he has opened my eyes, and I pray that spiritual gifts may be manifested more and more, till we all have the Holy Spirit to abide in us continually. I think I can now see why I have been so lukewarm in this good and glorious cause, and I mean to be zealous and repent. I believe that God for Christ's sake has forgiven my heart wanderings, and I now ask my brethren and sisters to do the same, and hope and trust they will. I do feel as if I wanted to make an entire consecration to God. I want my whole will swallowed in his, and hope that I may evermore enjoy his good Spirit. My husband is now with me in this good way, and our house has become a house of prayer. Brethren and sisters, let us not be discouraged. If God is for us who can be against us? I am determined not to let another take my crown. Your unworthy sister, striving for the victory.
HELEN E. GOODELL. Sandusky, Wis., May 2d, 1859.