Repentance and Readiness for Translation
By Almira T. Stevens
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I desire to let you know of the mercy of the Lord to me. As I look upon the past, and see how far short I have come of adorning my profession as I should, I feel that it is all of his mercy that I am not cut off from his people. I have realized but little what it is to be truly a follower of Christ, and have passed lightly over messages which have been sent for our correction, without praying as I should to see my sins as they were. I think I am now trying in earnest to work out my salvation by confessing all my faults as I see them, and also by overcoming and forsaking them. I believe that the Lord is at work for his people, and will help all those who will help themselves. I do thank the Lord for the strait testimonies that he has sent us through sister White. I believe they have been the means of opening the eyes of some of us here to see our sad condition before it is too late. O that they may prove a savor of life unto life. I believe the visions are an important part of the third angel's message, and will bring God's people to the unity of the faith, if heeded as they should be. O, let none of us neglect them any longer. I feel that I would live wholly to God in time to come, and profit by all the instruction which he gives me in any and every way. I do want to rise with the little company that are doing the will of God, and be prepared with them for translation.
ALMIRA T. STEVENS.
Waukon, Iowa.