Faith in the Third Angel’s Message
By H. S. Gurney
Bro. White: My heart seems to leap with joy at the thought that we are almost home. Although we yet look through a scene of darkness and perils, yet the promise of God lifts us above, where Jesus is, and our faith takes hold like an anchor in a sure place. How good to realize that angels are our protectors, and in the time of trouble no harm shall come nigh to destroy. I rejoice that we have not been so held in darkness as to reject the third angel's message. This message shines so clear that we see how to work in order to be prepared for the coming of Christ. It leads our minds into the sanctuary, to behold Jesus, our Advocate, preparing to blot out the sins of Israel. While our wings of faith ascend there, are they not sufficiently strong to bear our children up and present them before our Advocate as subjects of mercy? Yes, we can, and presenting them there, we can make an urgent appeal, and plead with our High Priest, and having a clear understanding with parties concerned, we can base our plea upon conditions that cannot be denied. I feel like taking new courage, and looking up for redemption. I will try to be faithful, and encourage faithfulness in my family, that we may together overcome every besetment, and stand on mount Zion to sing a new song. I would say, Praise the Lord! but I feel unworthy to come so near him. I presume not one in a private capacity can feel a greater interest in the Eastern Mission than myself. I do not cease to pray for those who are called into the New England States to proclaim the third angel's message; that the angel of truth may go before them and confound the language of those who live in error, that confusion may fill their ranks, and the honest may find refuge under the banner of the third angel's message. My "understanding" leads me to pray thus. There are many in that part of the field who seem to love the Advent faith, and have a clear view of the state of the dead and resurrection, who must yet see the harmonious work under the third angel's message. There is nothing clearer to me than the importance of thorough organization in order to effect any thing permanent in that field. I will try in every way to hold up the hands of God's faithful servants, and pray that they may move in much wisdom and patience. God can send another angel when a necessity is felt on the part of those engaged in the work. From your brother in hope. H. S. Gurney.
Jackson, Mich.