Buckland’s Conversion to the Truth
By William G. Buckland
BRO. WHITE: It is now nearly three years since first I decided to serve the Lord by keeping his commandments and the faith of Jesus. Previous to this time, I was walking in the broad road to ruin and destruction; not having made a profession of religion; and deem it very providential that ever I was brought to a knowledge of the truth of God. A few weeks before I yielded to my convictions, the brethren had a meeting at my father's house in Carlton, and the Lord met with his people there and blest them. Satan would keep all if possible from God; and he tried to hinder me from being at the meeting. I was willing to obey him, therefore on Sabbath morning I left, with the intention of being away from meeting. My feelings on that forenoon cannot be told. I met with some of my associates, but could not be happy. A heavy load was on my mind which I could not cast off. Something kept whispering in my ears, Go home! go home! At last I yielded to the voice of conscience, and went home and stayed through the rest of the meeting. The burden of that meeting was for the young, and that the Lord would give the children of the remnant to go with them to Mt. Zion. I was fully convinced, but did not commit myself. In other words I wanted to count the cost; and for four weeks a continual and dreadful struggle was going on within my breast. I knew that this people had the truths of God's word. I was convinced that these truths would bring out a people that would stand upon the earth through the time of trouble and not be moved. But could I give up my associates, this world with its pleasures and follies? Could I separate myself from the friends I loved, and give up all and enlist under the banner of Christ? By the grace of God assisting, I decided to serve him. And never have I been sorry that I have been led out on the truths of the three angels' messages. Although I have passed through great trials and temptations, through many hours of great discouragements, never have I felt like giving up these truths. I love them. They are precious unto me. How sweet are the precious promises contained in the word to the trusting and humble child of God. Never has the hope of eternal life been more bright. Never have I had such peace of mind. Through and beyond the dark clouds shines a brighter light, which makes the pathway of the Christian more pleasant than a path strewn with roses. I feel the need of a daily searching of my heart and a closer walk with God. I want to see the sinfulness of my ways, and have grace given me to overcome. I do not want to be one that shall run the Christian race in vain. I want to be a perfect overcomer. I want to feel that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth me from all sin. Pray for me. Yours seeking eternal life,
WM. G. BUCKLAND. Albion, Orleans Co., N. Y.