WM. RUSSELL by Wm. Russell

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 24, 1859

WM. RUSSELL

By Wm. Russell

From Bro. Russell.

Bro. Smith: It is with gratitude to my heavenly Father that I take my pen in hand to say a few words to the dear saints scattered abroad. I feel very thankful for the refreshing season we have enjoyed here for a few weeks past. We were favored lately with a visit from Bro. Phelps, who labored with us for about one week, and strengthened the church very much. It was really meat in due season to the household of faith. After attending to the ordinance of the Lord's house in breaking bread, he went on his way rejoicing. May the Lord bless him abundantly.

The brethren in this place are getting on higher ground; they have renewed their covenant with God, and feel determined to be among the redeemed saints. There seems to be a great desire in almost every place to hear the present truth; but there is no one to give them the glad tidings of the gospel of the kingdom. The harvest is plenteous, but the laborers are few, very few, compared with the greatness of the field.

I have recently read an article from the pen of Bro. White, in Vol. ix, No. 7, of the Review, headed, "Get Them to Reading;" which plan, if fully carried into effect, would be the means of bringing many souls to a saving knowledge of the truth. But in many places those that are the most willing to hear have not the means to pay for books; consequently they must do without them. Those that are called into the field to lecture are not able to purchase books to give away, as they do not receive enough for their support; neither are those who have the immediate charge of the Office able, I presume, to supply one tenth of those that are honestly searching for truth. How many are there that are professing to keep the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus, and believe that the Saviour is soon coming, that are hoarding up riches for the last days! To advance the cause of present truth? No. For charitable purposes? No. It is, that they may live in opulence, be called wealthy, honorable men; the first men of the place, in point of eminence, in which they live, while many thousands of their fellow-men are perishing for want of the truth. A little of their abundance might relieve their suffering condition, and save many poor sinners from everlasting destruction,

and the givers receive a blessing, and make themselves friends with the unrighteous mammon, that when they fail, will receive them into everlasting habitations.

O, dear brethren, let us be willing, if need be, to give up all for Christ. If we are not willing to give up all, we are not worthy to be called his disciples. "Sell that ye have and give alms." Let us strive to keep all the commandments.

Yours striving for eternal life.

WM. RUSSELL

Mauston, Wis., March, 1859.