To the Scattered Sheep of the Little Flock.
By R. F. Cottrell
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS:—You feel lonely. You realize the need of those of "like precious faith" to assist you in your weary pilgrimage. And doubtless you often think of the disadvantages of your situation and condition, and of how much easier it would be to serve God under more favorable circumstances. You may be in error in this. In all conditions of life there are obstacles in the Christian's way to be overcome. None are exempt. And the promises are not to those who find no difficulties in the way, but to those who overcome. At the best, we are all in a state of trial in this world. The trials of some may be greater and more severe than those of others; but the Lord gives more grace and strength to endure. None are so feeble that the strength of God is not sufficient to bear them through; none are so poor but they may be rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom that God has promised to them that love him. God is our strength; and he is able to save the weakest as well as the strongest. He calls upon all to trust in him for strength. In whatever condition he calls us, as to outward things, therein he requires us to serve him. But we are apt to think that a change of circumstances, over which we have no control, would materially better our condition. And we repine at our hard lot, thinking what zealous Christians we would be, could we but change these circumstances. The poor man thinks, How would I help forward the cause of truth, if I only had wealth! But give him wealth, and perhaps he becomes covetous and stingy, and there is more danger of his being lost, than if the Lord had not prospered the labor of his hands. So it might be with you. With your new privileges of communion with the people of God, new duties and responsibilities, and perhaps new trials, would be laid upon you, and you would still have a burden and cross to bear. Then, relying upon God, make the best of the condition in which you are. Your friends oppose you. Bear it with meekness, but adhere with firmness to the truth. Perhaps those who have authority over you, as a parent or a husband, would exercise that authority to prevent you from doing your duty to God. Prove by word and deed your loyalty and obedience in all things that do not interfere with the right of conscience and duty to God. In this be firm and unwavering; yet with all meekness and forbearance. Be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. Take much pains to please, and melt the stony heart with love, but beg to be excused from violating your obligation to obey God. If you do so, God will be on your side and will give you the victory. You can obey God if you will. There is nothing too hard for the Lord; and a consistent Christian course, pursued with meekness and firmness, is the surest way to win your friends to the truth. Be faithful in the place where God has called you; and should you not be permitted the privilege of Christian society in this world, in a little while you will meet with the whole family of Heaven, and enjoy their society forever.