LETTERS by S. B. Whitney

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 19, 1860

LETTERS.

By S. B. Whitney

"Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another."

From Bro. Whitney.

BRO. SMITH: It is now a little more than five months since I decided to give heed to the voice of the third angel, and identify myself with the little company who are endeavoring to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.

As is common to those who step upon the platform of present truth, I have had some things to contend with, but I could not long hesitate to give up my future prospects of usefulness, which I could plainly discern were not in God's order, and lend my influence in proclaiming the last message of mercy to mankind; neither could I be long deciding which it was better to choose, the friendship of the world which is enmity with God [James iv, 4], or the approbation of my heavenly Father.

But the way seems more and more narrow, and I much fear sometimes that I shall be of the number that shall neglect to give seasonable heed to the counsel of the true Witness, and consequently be spued out; still the truth looks more precious, and I feel to bless God that I was not left to reject the counsel of God against myself; but was led to give ear to the angel's warning voice, and refuse to receive the mark of the beast.

Have been spending a few days, quite recently, with Bro. H. W. Lawrence in visiting the brethren in this and St. Lawrence Cos., and while I have witnessed the amount of trial and affliction pressing upon God's people, and the straits into which many were thrown—some even, in individual cases, giving up the Sabbath, and falling in with the more pleasing (because less crossing) views of the Age-to-come, and no-Sabbath advocates; it has seemed as if the shaking time was just upon us, and the burden of my prayer has been, Lord, help thy people. But many are enabled to rejoice even in affliction, and are encouraged to lift up their heads, feeling doubly assured that their redemption draweth nigh.

We enjoyed many precious seasons with God's people, and felt that our spiritual strength was renewed. Never have felt so much the importance of watching unto prayer, and that everything I do be done to the glory of God and the advancement of his cause. In hope that I may finally overcome and be of the number that shall have right to the tree of life, I am,

Your humble and unworthy brother in Christ.

S. B. WHITNEY.

Malone, N. Y.