Letters by D. T. Shireman

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Sep 15, 1863

Letters.

By D. T. Shireman

"Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another."

From Bro. Shireman.

BRO. WHITE: I would say to the brethren and sisters scattered abroad, that I am striving to make my way through this dark world of sin and sorrow to that better land, where the weary care-worn pilgrims ere long will find rest.

The pathway that lies before the remnant, is truly a narrow and rugged one, and were it not that Israel's God is able to save and to deliver even to the uttermost, our hearts would indeed fail us, as we view the great storm that is coming upon the earth. Although we may be called to pass through deep tribulation, and the world cast out our names, and scoff because we believe that Jesus is soon coming to take his faithful waiting ones home, yet let us ever remember that Jesus says, "Fear not little flock, it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."

Dear brethren and sisters, let us strive to be of that little company, that shall be permitted to meet in that kingdom, where there will be no war nor bloodshed, no sorrow nor dying groans; but where the redeemed shall be, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. While writing about the glorious prospect of getting into that blessed kingdom, my heart feels to say, Praise the Lord O my soul. His goodness endureth forever. For the past few weeks I have tried to live by the moment. I do want to be ready when Jesus comes. I cannot think of staying back in the city of destruction, I want an inheritance with the saints of God in the earth made new. As the poet says—

"I long to be there! and the thought that 'tis near, Makes me almost impatient for Christ to appear, And fit up that dwelling of glories so rare, The earth robed in beauty—I long to be there!"

Yours striving to overcome. D. T. SHIREMAN. West Union, Fayette Co., Iowa, Sept. 6. 1863.