p. 182 | R. F. COTTRELL by R. F. Cottrell

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 3, 1864

R. F. COTTRELL

By R. F. Cottrell

From Bro. Cottrell.

DEAR BRETHREN : Time is hastening us on to the advent of Jesus. That same Jesus is coming again to claim and receive the purchase of his blood. We have not followed cunningly devised fables, leading us to the conclusion that the great day of the Lord is at hand. Scripture prophecies, which have proved themselves true by the fulfillment of their every prediction, except their closing and crowning event, have led us with unerring certainty to the position that we occupy, and we know, without a doubt that that most fearfully momentous and solemn day is just before us. Are we making that advancement in the preparation which we ought? Do we realize the momentous truths concerning which the clearest and most decisive testimony has, as it were, compelled our belief? Have we a view of the vast work yet to be done, to prepare ourselves and others for the close of probation? For one, I fear I have not. Yet, by the help of the Lord I am determined not to yield, but to fight till the victory is gained. Victory will be the lot of the faithful; and it is a victory worth gaining. Eternal life, eternal joys, will crown the conquerors. Those who venture on the Lord and venture fully, who fight manfully and perseveringly, will, at length, hear the never-ending blessing pronounced, the well-done to the faithful servant.

In the light of the day of retributions and rewards, how do the trials, the labors, the sufferings of this present time sink into insignificance! They are not

worthy to be compared with those of the primitive church, and theirs, according to Paul's testimony, were not worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in the glorified saints.

My prayer to God is, that we may see things in their true light. That we may walk by faith, not by viewing the things that are seen, which are temporal, but the things that are not seen, which are eternal. May God help me to arouse and not sleep over the awful moments which are deciding the destiny of the present, vast generation. Brethren, pray for me, that I may have a spirit of discernment to understand my duty, and enjoy the indwelling of the Spirit of truth, to enable me to discharge my responsibilities to divine acceptance. I will remember you. If I forget Zion, let my right hand forget her cunning, and my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth. I proffer you still my heart and my hand. The Lord help us to fulfill our vows.