Steadfastness Amid Trials
By H. F. Baker
BRO. SMITH: Our faces are still set like a flint Zionward. We are seeking by patient continuance in well-doing, for glory, honor, immortality; and though we have temptations and difficulties pressing around us upon almost all sides with such power that at times were it not for the abundant mercy of our God to forgive iniquity, and his grace to sustain us, we fear that we should fall from our steadfastness; yet the thought will suggest itself, "What is a man profited though he gain the whole world and lose his own soul." Then "rejoice not, O mine enemy, though I fall yet shall I rise again." We have no disposition to complain at trials, abundantly assured as we are, by our blessed chart, that it is through suffering that we are perfected, purged and rendered vessels meet for the Master's use; and this is consolation: "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation, for when he is tried he shall receive the crown of life which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." James i, 12. Also that "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory that shall be revealed in us." &c. Myself and wife are the only Sabbath-keepers in, or near this village. We feel very lonely sometimes, for in such a wilderness of ungodliness we find little sympathy, and many would rejoice to see us yield our hope, and thereby confirm the prediction of those who prophesied, after the tent had been here, that it would all go down and wear away in a little while.111 The Review comes to us from week to week like a familiar friend, and does not a little towards making up to us the loss of many privileges enjoyed by others. I scarcely know what we could do without it, being a link in the chain which binds us in union and sweet sympathy with those of "like precious faith." Bless the Lord for the Review. My prayer is for its success in sending forth the words of life, which are as refreshing to me as water to a thirsty soul. Yours in hope.
H. F. BAKER.
Wauseon, Ohio.