THE CAUSE by Editor

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 20, 1862

THE CAUSE.

By Editor

Prosperity attends the cause generally. There never was a time when our people were so ready to sustain it with their means as now. The subject of organization has finally triumphed, and the real friends of the cause feel relieved of a great burden on this subject, and now see good fruits. Systematic benevolence is a perfect thing. It has been a hard struggle to bring these about, but now we have the joy of seeing the good results. We as a people had gone as far as we could go without them. Without them, the future was hopeless; hence the general charge of the powers of darkness upon them. But the day is gained, and victory is again on the side of truth.

But some localities are suffering from the bad results of opposing organization, systematic benevolence and the gifts. It is no more than could be expected that those who do not admire the equity and efficiency of the simple plan of systematic benevolence, but, rather cling to the use of tobacco, which is a violation of the rules of elevated worldly society, should doubt anything that should teach it. Our people are going on with reform. These soon find themselves far behind and discouragement comes over the cause in their locations.

There are no divisions of any importance with us. Those things referred to are the result of blind prejudice. Some have not learned the old tried hands, or they would not so soon exchange them for comparative strangers. Our people are repenting, and learning better. May God forgive them. We are glad to see that Bro. Waggoner is current in Southern Iowa. May the blessing of God be with him and Bro. Brinkerhoof in raising the standard in that part of the field, where faithful testimony has been trampled under foot.

But the cause will not stop because these persons choose to. God is giving our preachers a plain testimony which is listened to with great delight by its true friends, and they will move forward. Those who choose to hold back cannot expect the labors of our preachers, after they have rejected their testimony. They cannot help such.

The cause in Michigan is firm, and onward. After taking shares in the Association to the amount of $2500, and donating nearly $1000, from S. B. funds, pledges to pay for new tent, and run it this season already amount to $714. With the love of God's word, and systematic action we can do anything to advance the cause of truth, and not feel it.

Our two-days meeting has left a cheering influence. The Battle Creek church is enjoying peace and prosperity. Week ago Sabbath we baptized five.