The Meek and Quiet Spirit
By I. G. Camp
BRO. SMITH: As it has become duty to write to the Office, and I so much delight to read the communications from the dear brethren and sisters, I feel a desire to add my testimony in favor of our holy religion, and the sacred truths we advocate. They are indeed dear to my heart. And in view of all that the Lord has done for us as a people, and especially for unworthy me, I want to love him with all the heart, and yield a strict obedience to all his holy requirements. I would not have mine that outward adorning of plaiting the hair and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel, but I want it to be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet Spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. The question may arise in our minds, How much of our time shall we be in possession of the meek and quiet spirit? Shall we say, what time things go smoothly with us and to our minds? Oh, no; this is not enough, since it is a characteristic of our holy religion to give us calmness and patience under the adverse scenes through which we are called to pass. Jesus was our pattern, and when was he impatient? Never. And as he was our pattern, so should we, especially parents, be patterns for our children, and as elder brethren and sisters, to those who are younger. We should set an example daily and hourly that should say to those around us, Jesus saves his people from their sins. I have chosen Jesus as my Saviour, and often have I felt to say within myself, especially while coming from my closet devotion, I have given all for Christ; he is my all. And when passing through deep afflictions I have felt to say, O I am glad I have given all for Christ; I have found in him a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. I feel that it is safe trusting in him. I feel that many and sore trials await me, but I desire to lean upon his almighty arm, casting all my care and burden upon him, knowing that he careth for and will sustain me. Yours hoping for eternal life when Jesus comes,
I. G. CAMP.
Gayville, Vt., Nov. 11, 1860.