ORVIL JONES by Orvil Jones

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 29, 1859

ORVIL JONES

By Orvil Jones

From Bro. Jones.

BRO. SMITH: I noticed a call in the Review for a communication from every believer in present truth in the land. I feel that I am of that number, and have an interest in the spread of the third angel's message; also in the welfare of deceived and perishing man. I am thankful for the Review, which imparts to us so much light upon the word of God, and for its faithful admonitions; also for the privilege of hearing through its columns from those of like precious faith.

It is truly heart-cheering to us to read communications from brethren and sisters with whom we have assembled in prayer and conference meetings in gone by days. I love to hear that they are still trying to live in obedience to all the requirements of God's word, in spite of the opposition which we are called to meet. I do not see anything which should discourage us from trying to keep the commandments and faith of our blessed Master. Precious promises are in the book of God for the encouragement of the faithful. When I read the history of the church from its infancy and see what the primitive Christians suffered for the cause of Christ, it makes me feel willing to bear all the trials of my time, if I may have an entrance into the city of the living God. To go forward is eternal life, backward is death.

Let me say to those if any there be, who are weighed down with temptations and surrounded with opposition, This has always been the lot of those that would follow the footsteps of Jesus. He says, My grace is sufficient for you. We have no reason to doubt. He knows all our infirmities, and the desires of every heart; he is able to save all that will put their trust in him. Everything indicates that probationary time is fast drawing to a close, and that we should be ready and on the watch, not sleeping as do others.

There are a few here that God in goodness and mercy has been pleased to lead out into the truth. There has been no preacher here but the Review and the books, together with the Bible. We shall be very glad to see some messenger here as soon as there is a way opened for them to come. I wrote to Bro. Ingraham in Minnesota to ascertain if he could come this way, but have received no answer yet: I intended to send means to pay his expenses, but have not been able to get it. Neither labor nor grain will bring the money here this winter. There are brethren and sisters about thirty miles from here, Bro. McCormick says some wish to be baptized. I think the brethren and sisters there and here should unite together in a church, for their own benefit and for the good of the cause. We could meet as often as circumstances would admit, and attend to the ordinances of the Lord's house. It seems to me that this is very important. Only those who have enjoyed such privileges know how to appreciate them. I should like to read more letters from the brethren and sisters at Avon and Hoosier Grove, also from Twin Grove and Monroe. And may God grant that we may all overcome is my prayer.

ORVIL JONES

Durand, Wis.