Extracts from Letters

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 3, 1862

Extracts from Letters.

Sister M. A. Nichols writes from Laphamsville, Mich.: "It is a pleasure to us to see the work of the Lord prosper. We have ever believed the battle was the Lord's, and that victory would turn on Zion's side, and the glorious work would go forward in spite of all the enemies of the truth. We feel glad when we hear of the union that exists. I believe that the Lord is bringing out a people for himself, a glorious church, without spot or wrinkle, a peculiar people, zealous of good works, a people that will be tested at every step.

"Dear brethren and sisters, the third angel's message is soon to go with power. Can we not see by the signs of the times that probation will soon close, and the sweet voice of mercy die away? When I can realize in a measure the solemn time we live in, I deeply feel the importance of getting the door of my heart open before the Lord. I want to be a whole-hearted Christian, and rise with the third angel's message. Sometimes I tremble and fear that I shall not overcome all my besetting sins, but I trust in the precious promises that I read from his word."

Bro. C. H. T. St. Clair writes from Fairfield, Iowa: "I am not tired in endeavoring to walk in the straight and narrow way, where but few are found walking. I want to have my name among those that may be found walking in this way. Many are the trials and perplexities we have to endure in this sinful world, but my trust is in the Lord. His grace is sufficient. By the Lord's strengthening me, I hope I may be able to

overcome all my besetting sins, and to run with patience the race that is set before me, ever looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. I love the cause of present truth, and love the people of God. I would rather be a door-keeper in the house of God than to dwell in high places in this wicked world. I was seeking after the riches of this world, honor, fame, &c., in this life, when my attention was called to investigate Bible truths. The evidence before me was sufficient that we are living in the generation that cannot pass until the Son of man makes his appearance in the clouds of heaven. In view of this truth, and others connected with the third angel's message, I was constrained to turn in with the overtures of mercy, while mercy could be found. I can now truly say, I want not the riches of this world. I want the true riches, the riches in Christ. I want to lay up a treasure in heaven that will not rust, where thieves cannot break through and steal. I want to be more engaged in the service of the Lord, and to discharge faithfully every known duty that devolves upon me, and to get in a humble place, that the blessings of the Lord may be with me.

We are now living in a heart-searching time. We must prepare for the coming of our blessed Saviour. He will not delay much longer. Have we as a people heeded the strait testimony for the church? Brethren, let us heed the admonition of the Lord, and cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh, cut ourselves loose from every idol, and worship the only true God. My prayer is that God will guide this people as he did Israel of old. May we ever be submissive and obedient to his will, that we may be guided in meekness and judgment, that our understandings may be right in all important matters. I rejoice that Bro. Waggoner is again coming to Southern Iowa. May the blessing of the Lord attend his labors there. I want to see this people advance."