Extracts from Letters

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 9, 1865

Extracts from Letters.

H. G. Buxton writes from Eagle Point, Ills. : The prize at the end of the Christian race looks precious to me, far more than anything this world can give, because of the real and solid happiness the thought of it gives me, while experiencing the trials and temptations with which our wily foe besets our pathway, while on the road to mount Zion. But thanks be to God who ever thus far has assisted me in gaining the victory. The stirring and sublime events now transpiring among the nations of the earth, when understood by the unerring word of prophecy, indicate that the end is very near, "even at the doors."

Our little church at Elk Horn is on the advance. At our last Quarterly Meeting we enjoyed much of the Spirit of God while listening to the truth, and in obeying the ordinances of the Lord’s house. Three were baptized. The health reform is purifying us, both in body and mind. For my part, I am willing, yea, anxious to live out this, or any other reform which God’s people will have to make, before they are fitted to reign in his glorious kingdom. Trusting in the strong arm of the Lord, I am determined to deny self, die daily to the world, walk humbly before the Lord, and stand stiffly for his truth while on the earth, that I may be numbered among his "jewels," enter with the "righteous nation" through the pearly gates into the New Jerusalem, and wear the crown of life, even forever.

I have some trials and afflictions, which, at times, seem peculiar; but when I consider that we are "not to think strange concerning the fiery trial," and that our light affliction is but for a moment, I can "run with patience the race that is set before me;" considering that "many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivereth him out of them all." In order to overcome the enemy, we must wrestle Jacob-like, and get the needed blessing. In my own experience, I find that daily secret prayer is the key that unlocks God’s great store-house, where we can gain access to the whole Christian armor to defend, and the graces to bedeck, our daily walk.

I desire to make it the main object of my life, to live so that I may persuade my unconverted friends, and those with whom I associate, to keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Oh that the unconverted would "taste, and see that the Lord is good."