R. M. PHILO by R. M. Philo

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 27, 1865

R. M. PHILO

By R. M. Philo

From Sister Philo.

DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I am still striving to gain an inheritance in the better land, yet many times my trials are such that I am fearful that I may not be able to withstand all the devices of the powers of darkness in the last days. But when I remember what my Saviour has done for me, how he gave up all the glories of his heavenly home, the homage of all the angelic host, and descended to this sinful world, and here by those who should have bowed with reverence at his feet, was reviled, hated, mocked, crowned with thorns, and finally suffered a shameful death upon the cross, to save poor, sinful man; then I feel to bow my head in shame and repentance, that I have dared to murmur at the trials and crosses that have beset my pathway. Just and right are all our trials; for though now I should love him and strive ever to obey his will, yet it can never make recompense for the years that I have lived in sin and rebellion to his laws. Therefore, if I am ever saved I shall truly be a sinner saved by grace, purchased by the blood of the blessed Redeemer.

I do feel as though the perils were thickening around us, and temptations in such deceiving forms that unless we have on the whole armor of God, we shall be caught in the snares prepared by the emissaries of Satan.

I know that it is all important that I arouse from all lethargy, and have my heart filled with the love of God. Oh, that I may be enabled to look away from all the cares and turmoils of earth, to him who alone can sustain my feeble frame and drooping spirits, and finally enable me to come off conqueror, yea, more than conqueror, through him that hath loved us, and finally reach that haven of rest that Jesus has gone to prepare for his followers. What a blessed thought! Oh, what a glorious hope! If we are only meek and humble followers of Jesus, we shall soon inherit eternal life; soon be gathered into the fold of God, where none can molest, nor evils ever come. And if my way prove dark and dreary, and sorrows press heavily, and temptations should wage fiercely around me, I will put my trust in my heavenly Father, who is able to lead me through. Pray for me, that I may ever be found doing my duty, and when Jesus shall come, be among that number that can sing the song of victory.

R. M. PHILO

Felts, Mich.