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Review and Herald, Vol. 12, No. 3.

SELF-FLATTERY
Earlier text: SELF-FLATTERY

Our Visit in Allegan Co.

By A. S. Hutchins

BRO. SMITH: It has been my purpose to speak definitely of our very encouraging and soul-stirring meetings in the towns of Allegan and Monterey, during our visit there; but circumstances have prevented, and I have time to say but a few words now.
But I am thankful to our heavenly Father for the happy acquaintance formed with the dear brethren and sisters in these places and vicinity, and for the privilege enjoyed with them.
Our last meetings at Monterey, of three days, were deeply interesting, and we have reason to believe, highly profitable. On the last day of the meeting seventy-four brethren and sisters were present; and our season in attending to the ordinances of the Lord's house was one of the most interesting we ever enjoyed. While here I baptized seven.
The Sabbath and First-day before the Conference here, we spent with the brethren and sisters in Allegan and Trowbridge. About thirty-five Sabbath-keepers were present. Here we were again greatly blessed in following the example of the Saviour, and in commemorating the death of the dear Redeemer. While in this place thirteen were buried with Christ in baptism.
We trust we shall not soon forget the kindness of the brethren and sisters to us while there. May the blessing of the Lord rest upon them, is our prayer, and we finally meet on Mt. Zion.
A. S. HUTCHINS. Battle Creek, June 1st, 1858.

Prove all Things.

By H. S. Gurney

NOTHING tends so much towards the advancement of any cause as to appeal to the reasoning powers of mind. Such a course prepares for deliberate action. God has contrived the plan to save ruined man, and has adapted it to man's comprehension in his fallen state; hence every impression, word and action, should be so carefully studied and distinctly understood that man's judgment would be convinced when brought into proper exercise.
By following the testimony of Jesus and the apostles we find perfect order maintained while carrying out the revealed plan of God. Human theories, traditions of men—opposed the work of God; but the course of truth was onward with a steady march, discomfiting its foes, and making its incessant appeals to the judgment of men. Wisdom is justified of all her children. Jesus declared in substance that the children of this world were more deliberate in managing their affairs than the children of light. We might inquire here upon the supposition, why the children of light should stand reproved by the children of this world? But this would be deviating from my purpose at this time, so I will proceed.
Paul's address to Felix was of a character that reached his reasoning powers. He trembled because his judgment was convinced. He was interested in that he promised to call again. Paul reproved the Corinthian church for disorder in the use of the gifts which were bestowed upon them for their improvement. Paul labors to show them their duty and responsibility as stewards of those gifts, (speaking with tongues, and the Lord's supper is particularly referred to) and that the power is in the church to regulate any disorder. Every act of God's dealing with man appeals to common sense before the designed effect can be produced upon the heart. It is the duty of the church to prove all things, and hold fast that which is good. Nothing can be proved without first understanding its merits, and this cannot be without search; therefore whatever comes up purporting to be the effect of the Spirit of God, it becomes the duty of the church to understand and consider it in all its bearings before they should lend their sympathy. If there was no tangible rule to settle questions of such vast importance relating to our duty, then we should easily be imposed upon by the suggestions of Satan, or left to follow the wild imagination of any spirit, which course persisted in, would be attended with loss of interest in the fundamental truths of God's word and lay a foundation to believe a lie and be damned! A tree is known by its fruit. The spontaneous fruits of a just man are "love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance," which things no justice can condemn. All exercises which do not produce or revive the principles above quoted in the hearts of those concerned, we have reasons to suspect are the fruits of an imaginary spirit wrought upon by impulses to which human nature is subject; and dictated by surrounding circumstances.
H. S. GURNEY.
Jackson, Mich., May 16th, 1858.

Christian Fellowship and Piety

By Camm

A plant that grows in a cave is pale and sickly; so is the piety of a Christian who shuts himself out from the fellowship of God's household.

"Do Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly with thy God." Micah vi, 8.

By F. M. Bragg

If obedience to this precept was, in the first dispensation, more pleasing in the sight of the Lord than "thousands of rams, and ten thousands of rivers of oil," it is truly so in this more glorious dispensation when all these types have ceased in their great anti-type.
The Lord, by the mouth of the prophet gives us a perfect rule. If we fully obey it, it will make us perfect. And if we would attain an humble walk with our God, it is necessary to progress in the order in which this precept is given. First, "do justly." Obedience to this point of the precept, giving all their just due, prepares us to rightly administer to their necessities. And if we follow on we may become perfectly conformed to the whole will of our heavenly Father. But we cannot obey the third point, "Walk humbly with thy God," while neglecting the first and second, "do justly, love mercy," no more than we can live the life of the just before we come to Christ and become freely justified by his blood.
This applies with much force in our duties toward those with whom we profess to be striving for the same heavenly home. If we do not act from a principle of justice toward our brethren, and have not a heart to feel their woes, how can it be possible that we are walking humbly with our God? "If we love not our brother whom we have seen how can we love God whom we have not seen."
Much is said in the Scriptures on the second point in this precept, "love mercy." It is shown to be a prominent duty of true Christians; and a marked distinction is here made between them and the world. The command is not only to do works of mercy, but "love mercy," as if it had said, Let it be the delight of your hearts to be merciful. Not only in apparently kind and benevolent words, but also in kind and benevolent acts, in providing the things that are needful. The words of Wm. Burleigh are very expressive on this point.
"Words, offspring of the brain— High-sounding, yet not heart-born, are in vain— The heart turns loathing from them, that hath known The baptism of the Spirit—turns to find Its life in DOING—deeming thus his mind Hath Christ, our Head and great Exemplar, shown."
The apostle James says, What profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith and have not works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled, notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body, what doth it profit? Here the Apostle calls benevolent works the fruits of living faith, without which faith is dead. James ii, 17. Again he says, Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, to keep himself unspotted from the world. Chap i, 27. Our Saviour's words to the merciful will be, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. For I was an hungered and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger and ye took me in: naked and ye clothed me: I was sick and ye visited me." The prophet Isaiah also says, Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house, when thou seest the naked that thou cover him," &c. In connection with this are exceeding great and precious promises, which are for the benevolent, as also for the Sabbath-keeper. Shall we receive one part of this prophecy and reject the other?
But it is evident that this point in the precept does not complete the duties of the children of God. Works of mercy and benevolence are not sufficient proof of love to God and our neighbor, as they may proceed from selfish motives. The apostle Paul says, "Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and have not charity it profiteth me nothing." The humble walk with God is no less important. It has its place in the precept; is the third and last point; and may truly be said to be the perfecting stroke to the Christian character.
F. M. BRAGG. Cambridge, Wis.

Predictions that may be Relied on.

LET times be ever so good, if you are slothful you will be in want: let times be ever so bad, if you are diligent in the ways of God you will prosper. "The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat." Prov. xiii, 4.
Even though you be simple, yet, if you study God's word, you will become wise. "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple." Ps. cxix, 130.
Whatsoever cause others may have for fear, you shall not be hurt if you trust in the Lord. "They that trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever." Ps. cxxv, 1.
If you love and practice sin, it is impossible for you to escape punishment. "Be sure your sin will find you out." Num. xxxii, 23.
If you trust in your own resolution, strength, or righteousness, you are sure to fail. "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool." Prov. xxviii, 26.
If you seek salvation from any but the Lord Jesus Christ, you will infallibly be deceived. "For there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." Acts iv, 12.
Though you prosper in worldly things, if you practice sin, you will be unhappy. "There is no peace, saith the Lord, unto the wicked." Isa. xlviii, 22.
Whether you are young or old, weak or strong, sick or well, death is still standing at your door. "Dust thou art, and unto dust thou shalt return." Gen. iii, 19. "There is but a step between me and death," 1 Sam. xx, 3.—Sel.

Interesting Statistics.

THE United States are composed of thirty-two states and nine territories. They contain a population of 27,000,000, of whom 23,000,000 are white. The extent of sea-coast is 12,550 miles. The length of the ten principal rivers is 20,000 miles. The surface of the five great lakes is 90,000 square miles. The number of miles of railroad in operation is 20,000, which cost $78,000,000. The length of canals is 5,000 miles. It contains the longest railroad on the globe—the Illinois Central, which is 784 miles. The annual value of its agricultural productions is $200,000,000. Its most valuable production is Indian corn, which yields annually 40,000,000 bushels. The amount of registered and enrolled tonnage is 4,407,010. The amount of capital invested in manufactories is $600,000,000. The annual amount of its internal trade is $600,000,000. The value of farm and live stock is $500,000,000. Its mines of gold, copper, lead, and iron, are among the richest in the world. The value of gold produced is $100,000,000. The surface of its coal fields is 138,131 square acres. Within her borders are 80,000 schools, 5,000 academies, 284 colleges, and 3,800 churches.—Sel.

CHRISTIAN CONFIDENCE.

By Summerfield

You remember Peter, when he was imprisoned, chained between two soldiers. The church was praying in tears, wondering what would become of them if their strong champion was taken from them. The enemies of God on earth, and the devils were rejoicing that they had Peter in their power. The angels in heaven, ever intent on the mysteries of Providence in redemption, were sending down to see what the Lord would do with Peter. When heaven, and earth, were thinking of Peter, what were Peter's thoughts? What was Peter doing? Peter was asleep.—Summerfield.

Reflections on Mercy, Prayer, and Salvation

If the day of mercy leave us graceless, the day of judgment will find us speechless.
Reckon that a lost day in which you do not enjoy communion with God.
The Bible is the pledge of our immortality, and the charter of our salvation.
Science may raise us to eminence, but religion alone can guide us to felicity.

"LET GOD BE TRUE," Rom. iii, 4.

By M. E. Cornell

FROM the beginning the course of this world has been opposed to God. It has ever been Satan's plan to overthrow the purposes of the Most High, and "change his truth into a lie." He has assumed the fearful responsibility of contradicting Jehovah.
God said to Adam, "Thou shalt surely die," but Satan replied, "Thou shalt not surely die." The issue proved Satan a liar; for Adam died, and the same sentence passed upon all his posterity. Jesus testifies that Satan is "a liar and the father of it." John viii, 44.
The great controversy on earth began with the dark insinuation of that "old serpent," that mankind would not surely (or really) die, but that they would "be as gods," or in other language, they would be immortal. Socrates, the heathen philosopher, endorsed the lie when he said, "Socrates will not die, but is going to be with the gods." Modern Spiritualism does the same when it says, "There is no such thing as death," "It is a change of condition," &c.
But what is most strange of all is, that Protestants should give the "no death" falsehood a conspicuous place in their theology. They teach that all men, at what is called death, "change their condition," and go into one of two spheres, (heaven or hell,) while Spiritualism teaches that they may pass to seven spheres.
The following poetic description of death is from the Baptist Register:
"There is no death! what seems so is transition; This life of mortal breath, Is but a suburb of the life elysian, Whose portals we call Death."
Here is the old deception now vamped in rhyme. A very popular way of teaching error is by poetry. The following has gone the rounds of orthodox hymnbooks:
"What, to be banished from my Lord, And yet forbid to die! To linger in eternal pain, And death forever fly?"
The following extracts and criticisms are from the Bible Examiner:

"MORE DEATH WORSHIP."

"One of our exchange papers contains some blank verses on 'Death,' in which the Monster is worshiped as usual by 'undying soul' entity believers. It begins by the inquiry, 'Why should we picture death a thing of dread?' "We answer, Because God so announces it, by making it the penalty of sin. If Adam had dreaded it as he ought, he might have been preserved from its power. By believing the serpent's lie of natural immortality—'ye shall not surely die'—he had the 'dread' of death removed and fell into sin.
"In the fifth line the following sentiment is uttered: 'Death is an Angel—messenger divine!' "We do not wonder the writer placed a mark of surprise at the close of this line. Inspiration declares 'the devil' had the power of death; that 'sin entered into the world and death by sin.' See Heb. ii, 14, and Rom. v, 12. To call the 'messenger' of Satan, 'divine,' is cause of surprise and astonishment. Again, 'Death is a pilot—long in our treacherous seas, While cloud-hung skies above us frown, we sail, And many a foul Charybdis lurks beneath. We spend the fleeting moments as they pass, In ceaseless longings for the onward shore. Eternal shores are dawning on our sight, And Death's the friendly hand to guide us there.'
"Here death is made an all important friend to pilot us out of this life's sea on to the eternal shores. Enoch and Elijah could not meet that friendly pilot, and so landed without his aid! Unhappy men! How dared they venture without this pilot? Paul rejoices that God, on a certain occasion, delivered him from so great a pilot; and in that hour of trial he did not trust himself to that old ship-wrecker, Death, the Devil sends out for a pilot! No, saith Paul, 'our trust is in God who raiseth the dead.' See 2 Cor. i, 9, 10. The Devil's pilot shipwrecks all that come in his power! God is the christian's Pilot, and brings into palaces immortal by raising the dead. No thanks, and no praise to Satan's pilot. Old Death has stood on the shore to deceive weary mariners, and to rob God and his Christ of the honor of conducting to palaces immortal for many years. But he is doomed to an exposure by the grand doctrine of Life and Immortality only through Christ, that shall place him where his long series of crimes against God, Christ and truth demands; viz., Jesus Christ shall destroy death, and his royal master, the Devil. See Heb. ii, 14. Then will the robber of God and man be no more deified by good, but deceived, men who have so long sung his praises. Yes, friends, your pilot is to go into the lake of fire. Rev. xx, 14. A just doom for all such liars and deceivers. His godship will then be seen in its true character.
"In closing the stanzas to death's praise the following language is used: 'O, child of God! call Death no more thy foe. But picture him with Love and all sweet things, Fear not his voice, it is thy father's call, Nor shrink from his embrace though cold and chill.' "The first line is a rebuke of the great Apostle, who says, 'The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.' 1 Cor. xv, 26. But Paul did not know the wonderful good things death does; he was ignorant of death's friendly hand! Mistaken Apostle! Oh, if you had only lived in these days, in which the world by wisdom has found out a better work for death than to keep him in the devil's employ! He is now transformed into 'love and all sweet things,' whose voice is not to be feared! Death! Why, it's only thy father's call! If this be true, however, they are children of the devil; for death is his voice.
"This eulogist of death after dwelling on the bliss that disembodied souls are in, when the friendly hand of death has knocked the clayey temple to pieces, says: 'We then shall say of death, dread ill, transformed, Only an angel met in the way.' "We add, in the language of Paul, No marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light; therefore it is no great thing if his ministers [of which death is one] also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness, whose end shall be according to their works. 2 Cor. xi, 14, 15. The end of death we have seen portrayed by inspiration, if it is to be destroyed by being cast into the lake of fire. See again Heb. ii, 15, and Rev. xx, 14. When will man cease to be deceived by the natural immortal soul theory?"
Inspiration is silent about "changing condition" into "spheres" at death—not one word can be found about going at death to heaven, hell, purgatory, the seven spheres, or any other place but the grave. "Let God be true, but every man a liar."
Where is man in death? Ans. "Now shall I sleep in the dust." Job vii, 21.
"They shall go down to the bars of the pit when our rest together is in the dust." Job xvii, 16.
"All go unto one place, (not from two to seven,) all are of dust and all turn to dust again." Eccl. iii, 20.
"Madness is in their heart while they live, and after that they go to the dead." "There is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest." Eccl. ix, 3, 10.
There is no reward until the resurrection. All are in unconsciousness in the grave, until the great Life-giver shall come, and his reward shall be with him.
"Who art thou that repliest against God? Shall mortal man be more just than God?" Then to all we say, Let God be true. Amen. M. E. CORNELL. Battle Creek, May, 1858.

Repentance and Preparation for Christ’s Coming

By L. Lathrop

From Bro. Lathrop.

BRO. SMITH: I want to say to the brethren and sisters scattered abroad, that I am still striving to keep the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus. It is nearly four years since I commenced to keep God's Sabbath. I have made many crooked paths, murmured at the dealings of God with me, and at the straitness of the way, and have been possessed of a covetous, selfish spirit.
I came West (as I professed) to help advance the cause of God; but this world was uppermost in my mind. My hands were soon tied so that I could do nothing to help the paper or the messengers that had taken their lives in their hands to give me the truth. I am heartily sorry for my past course, and God being my helper I mean to heed the counsel of the true Witness, be zealous and repent, and buy the gold, white raiment and eye-salve.
I believe that our great High Priest is finishing his work in the Most Holy, and I want to afflict my soulin this day of atonement, and confess my sins, and have them go to judgment and be blotted out and not follow after and condemn me. I want my vessel clean and right side up when the refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.
I feel to-day a good determination to see the glories inside of the city. I desire an interest in the prayers of God's children that when Jesus comes I may see him as he is.
Your brother looking for the blessed hope. L. LATHROP. Genesee Grove, Ills., May 11th, 1858.

TRUST.

By Martin Farquhar Tupper

Yet will I trust! In all my fears Thy mercy, gracious Lord, appears, To guide me through this vale of tears, And be my strength; Thy mercy guides the ebb and flow Of health and joy, or pain and woe, To wean my heart from all below To Thee at length.
Yes,—welcome pain,—which Thou hast sent,— Yes,—farewell, blessings Thou hast lent; With Thee alone I rest content, For thou art heaven;— My trust reposes, safe and still, On the wise goodness of Thy will, Grateful for earthly good—or ill, Which Thou hast given.
O blessed friend! O blissful thought! With happiest consolation fraught,— Trust Thee I may, I will, I ought,— To doubt were sin; Then let whatever storms arise; Their Ruler sits above the skies, And lifting unto Him mine eyes, 'Tis calm within.
Danger may threaten, foes molest, Poverty brood, disease infest, Yea, lorn affections wound the breast For one sad hour; But faith looks to her home on high, Hope casts around a cheerful eye, And love puts all the terrors by With gladdening power.
[Tupper.

LETTERS.

By Alonzo Abbey

Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another.

From Bro. Abbey.

BRO. SMITH: We still have a desire to see the goodly land which the ancient prophets and patriarchs saw afar off by faith, which is now brought nigh by events which tell the near approach of the coming King. I feel at times something of the importance of these moments, but do not at all times fully realize it as I should. I am still determined to make an effort according to the object to be obtained.
When I look at the prize for which we are striving, it causes new life to spring up, and I feel like renewing my efforts to gain the victory. Eternal life is an object that should engage our whole being in order to obtain it. It is not to be obtained by mere desires: it will require a whole sacrifice. As it has cost the greatest sacrifice that ever was made to purchase the salvation of mankind, it will require a corresponding effort on their part. And shall we not be willing to make the sacrifice, when so much depends upon our acting in obedience to the requirements of the gospel? I feel by the grace of God I will try to have the sacrifice consume, self and all. I find that self is the worst foe I have to contend with, it has so many ways to manifest itself. It will appear on all sides, as though it was very unwilling to be made a sacrifice; but the grace of God is sufficient; if it were not for that I should despair. But, onward is the watch-word, and victory is sure.
We hail the weekly Review, and prize it as one of our best friends, and I know not but I may say, as our best, aside from the Bible. I earnestly desire to realize the importance of these moments, and so improve them that I may finally gain an inheritance with all the saints.
An unprofitable servant. ALONZO ABBEY. North Brookfield, N. Y., May 18th, 1858.

Awake and Prepare for the Coming King

By A. & H. Lanphear

From Bro. & Sr. Lanphear.

Bro. Smith: Amid the cares and perplexities of life, we are endeavoring to keep all the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus. Unworthy as we are, and unfaithful as we have been, we have hope, that through the grace of God, and the love of Jesus our Saviour, we shall obtain a heavenly habitation in the glorious kingdom of Christ. If we are the children of God, then are we heirs of the kingdom, and if heirs of the kingdom, then we can rejoice in the blessed hope of the soon coming Jesus, our King, to establish his kingdom.
Brethren and sisters, if we are heirs of the kingdom, let us awake from sleep, for why should we slumber, when we are so near our blessed home? Let us gird on the whole armor of Christ, that we may be able through the blood of the Lamb to beat back the powers of darkness and overcome the world, and obtain eternal life at the appearing of Jesus.
Why should we linger when almost in sight of the prize? Let us up and adorn ourselves with the robe of righteousness, and make haste to get ready, to receive our coming King. In a little while he that shall come, will come, and will not tarry. In a little while if we are faithful, we shall see the King in his beauty. Then there will be no more weeping nor sorrowing, no more sighing nor crying; for all tears will be wiped away. All will be love, joy and peace, in the blessed abode of the saints.
"The King of that country, he is fair, He's the light and the joy of the place. In his beauty we shall behold him there, And bask in his smiling face. We'll be there, we'll be there in a little while, We'll join the pure and the blest, We'll have the palm, the robe, the crown, And forever be at rest."
Yours striving to overcome. A. & H. LANPHEAR. Nile, N. Y., May 12th, 1858.

Extracts from Letters.

Sister M. M. Osgood writes from Bronte, C. W.: "About nine years since, I spent a day at one of the public houses in Battle Creek, as I was on my way to visit my parents who reside in Ionia Co. It was then a place of no particular interest to me, but now methinks it would be.
"I have ever loved the prayer and conference meeting whenever the Spirit of God seemed to preside; yet none of these meetings have been among those who look for a soon coming Saviour. To meet with them, and hear them talk about the good news of the kingdom, to tell how our Father has heard and answered the prayer of faith—O, this would be a feast indeed. O, what a cheering thought that God will listen to, and answer the petitions of the feeblest of his little ones. Yes, our God is a prayer-hearing, and a prayer-answering God. That God who once answered by fire at the request of Elijah, is not a God afar off, on a journey, nor is he deaf, for he hears prayer, even before it is uttered, sometimes; and more than this, he never sleeps. His eye is ever upon us, directing our steps, (that is, if we are trying to follow Christ.) His ear is ever open to our cry. Let us ask, then; ask great blessings, and receive great, that our joy may be full. Let us bring all the tithes into the storehouse, and see if God will not open heaven's windows, and pour down (not drop down) a blessing so great that we shall not be prepared or able to receive it.
"O brethren and sisters, I have a strong desire to meet the saints in a conference which shall far surpass any ever enjoyed here, a conference where
"The saints of all ages in harmony meet, Their Saviour and brethren transported to greet. There they can talk of all the way the Lord has led them from infancy to the pearly gates. But can we confidently look up and say, 'We'll be there, we'll be there in a little while?' O, the path that leads to the city is a narrow path, and the city is up, yes, high lifted up. We cannot leisurely walk, or lazily ride, nor madly leap, nor unconsciously slide, into heaven. There is no way but to climb. But we may not climb up on the ladder of ancestral piety, nor on the pyramid of great professions, nor the steps of worldly fame, or high sounding titles. Let us be ever so high, we must come very low before we can enter the path; for there is a low gate at the commencement, and similar gates are found at little intervals quite across the path, and all along the way. The camel, to go through the needle's eye, had to kneel instead of being lifted up, and then had to force himself through. And more, he must cast off all his burden; however desirable or precious, it must be laid down to secure access. The christian cannot get through while burdened with houses, farms, or piles of gold. If between the gates he accumulates a little, it must all be left at God's disposal outside each gate; for if he could take it through, he would find it a burden all the way. When kneeling he presses through, he finds just before him the steps of faith; relieved of his burden he mounts them with alacrity. The steps ascended, he finds the path to the next gate a gradual ascent, and if he does not drop a little here and there of what he accumulates on the way to the next gate, before he reaches it, the burden will hang heavily upon him, if it does not cause him to leave the path, and seek a level or descending one."

A Pilgrim’s Hope

By M. J. Owen

From Sister Owen.

BRO. SMITH: I am thankful for the privilege of being able to write a few lines to those who are engaged in the cause of God, and trying to keep his commandments. To such I would say, I am a pilgrim striving with you; and although we are scattered abroad, yet how sweet the assurance that not a sparrow shall fall to the ground without his notice. What a blessing to know the promises of God are sure! O that I may heed his counsel also.
My health is very poor, and I am reminded of the shortness of life; therefore I feel like striving to lay up my treasure in heaven, knowing this world is not long to be my home. And my dear friends, where our treasure is our hearts will be also. I have the privilege of reading the Review now, which seems a great consolation, and I prize it very much because I cannot meet with christian friends on the Sabbath, the loss of which I deeply feel. But there is a hope, the time is not distant when we shall if faithful meet in our Father's house, in one family. O let us gird the whole armor on, and not be weary in well-doing. My companion unites with me in regarding the Sabbath.
"Let faith and love still in me grow, Till my redemption come. I am a stranger here below, But Christ will bring me home." Yours in christian bonds. M. J. OWEN.
Arcada, Mich., May 17th, 1858.

ELI, & CATHARINE A. BUGBEE

By Eli and Catharine A. Bugbee

From Bro. & Sr. Bugbee.

Bro. Smith: We do not feel ourselves worthy of the Review, for we have sympathized with those of an unhallowed influence, and thereby grieved our heavenly Father, likewise our beloved brethren and sisters. It is a grief to us to see where we have been. The Review has been the means of our return from error to truth. It is all the preaching we have. We believe it teaches Bible doctrine. We pray that the Lord will forgive our backslidings, and ask the forgiveness of the brethren and sisters. We are determined to live more to the glory of God in the future, and shun the devices of the enemy of truth.
Your unworthy brother and sister striving for the kingdom.

ELI, & CATHARINE A. BUGBEE

Hope, Mich., May 16th, 1858.

ARMELIA W. WERDEN

By Armelia W. Werden

From Sister Werden.

DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I am a lonely traveler to that city that hath foundation. My life is a life of joy and grief. I try to be patient, and wait the coming of my Lord. I believe he will soon come and take the rebuke from all that love his appearing. He knows all the trials of his dear children, and the smallest saint he will not desert and leave to the enemy.
I think I can say in truth, I love God's holy law, and am striving to obey it. The commandments are joyous and not grievous. I love all those that love God in truth. I want to be holy, for he is holy. We can only expect to see him in peace, through obedience, and faith on the Son of God. My heart is full. I rejoice in the promises. They are consoling to the pilgrim. I mean to be faithful.
There are none here that try to keep the Sabbath with me. I often think of those of like precious faith, and look forward to the time when the Saviour will come and all the saints with him. O, it will be joyful when we all meet. There will be no sin, no sorrow, no dying, but one glorious, eternal day. All will be holy, and sing redeeming grace and dying love.
I want to know how the cause of my Redeemer prospers. I hope all will be faithful that now love God and the truth. The number is few; the truth is evil spoken of, and set at naught. May God help the watchmen to be faithful.

ARMELIA W. WERDEN

Davison Center, Mich., May, 1858.

Ye Serve the Lord Christ

By Dr. Wardlaw

YE SERVE THE LORD CHRIST. Col. iii, 24. If you duly "serve the Lord Christ," then—1. The will of Christ will be your rule; 2. The love of Christ will be your principle; 3. The glory of Christ will be your end; 4. The example of Christ will be your pattern; 5. The grace of God will be your confidence; and, 6. The approbation of Christ will be your aim.—Dr. Wardlaw.

Examine Your Aim

Examine your aim in all you undertake.

A Solitary Adventist in Wisconsin

G. Hoxsey writes from Farmington, La Cross Co., Wis., May 21st, 1858: "I have not seen, as I know of, any sort of Adventists since I left R. I., and that was four years the 17th of last month. There are some here that say they believe in the Advent doctrine, but they agree well with the world's people. I would like to see Bro. Bates once more, as he used to call at my house when I lived in North Scituate, R. I. I often think, shall we ever meet on the new earth? I met once with Bro. White in Conn. I should like to have them call at my shanty if I had money enough to pay their fare here and back, and give them ten dollars each to help them on their way; but here I am, an old man, about worn out, tied up in this strange land, I do not know but to die alone without a consoling word from any christian man or woman."

Put on the Whole Armor of God

Bro. & Sr. Preston write from Glenmore, N. Y., May, 1858: "The truth never looked more precious than now. We feel a strong determination to try to purify our souls through obedience to it. It rejoices us to hear of the prosperity of the cause through the Review. We have felt, and do still feel it to be unsafe to be where we cannot prevail with God. Darkness is increasing, the enemy is growing bold, and our natural infirmities are upon us.
"Dear brethren, are we sensible that we are living in the perils of the last days? It is so. God's word attests the fact. Then let us put on the whole armor of God. A part will not protect us now. How thankful we should be that the Lord hath provided for us the requisite armor. His all-glorious truth lived out by us will bring cruel hatred; but the Lord will protect his dear children, for his precious truth's sake."

The Worldling's Mean Choice.

THE world hath many servants, because it gives present wages; where Christ hath but a few disciples, because their reward is in another life. Most live by sight, and therefore must have to satisfy sense; they had rather, with Ishmael, be sent away with a small gift, than with Isaac, to wait for the inheritance: they had rather take their portion in this life, than to wait for the inheritance reserved in the heavens. Their unworthy spirits cry with Esau, What profit will this birthright do us? We must have pleasure, and we must have riches; and therefore, with Lysimachus, they will sell their kingdom and themselves, for a draught of water. There are but few such elevated spirits as the disciples had, that can leave a possession to live upon a promise: there are but few that have such heroic spirits as Moses had, that can despise the treasures of this present world, out of respect unto the recompense of a future reward: but there are many of such sordid spirits as Dives had, that would enjoy their good things here; but for my part, Lord! give not my portion in this life, I had rather live by faith.—Sel.

Which Way do You Look for Your Treasure ?

By A. S. Hutchins

SAID a good brother not long since, in speaking of his purpose to consecrate himself and all his substance to the Lord, "I mean to get my treasure where I shall look the other way for it."
The idea seemed to be a good one; too good to be lost. And it led us to the reflection that if some, now professing to have all their earthly treasure on the altar of the Lord, really had it there, they could run the Christian race not only with greater ease, but much more rapidly.
As we consider the slow progress that some make in the service of our divine Master, they seem much to us like one running side-ways, or backwards. Now with a part of this class, we are sure the difficulty is that their treasure is here. Their heart and their affections are here; and they must keep close watch of it, even while they say their face is set for mount Zion. So while they look one way they are trying to run the other.
Now, brethren and sisters, has not the time fully come to have our treasure where it should be: laid up in heaven, and constantly keep our eyes turned in that direction? Then may we "so run" as to obtain the prize.
We ask again, Has not the time come to lay up our treasure in heaven, to provide ourselves with "bags which wax not old," to set our affections on things above, and not on things on the earth? Brethren, think on these things. And bear in mind that you may run with patience toward heaven if your treasure is there, but if it be here, you will certainly, like Lot's wife, look back,
"Forsake then the world and escape for thy life, And look not behind you; remember Lot's wife."
A. S. HUTCHINS.
Battle Creek, June 1st, 1858,

Christian Charity and the Fugitive Slave Law

Judge Leavitt, in his charge to the jury in the case of Conolly, tried at Cincinnati for harboring fugitive slaves, said that "Christian charity was not within the meaning or intent of the Fugitive Slave law, and it would not therefore answer as a defense for violating the law." This is an admission which shows the infamous nature of that law in a clearer light than any of its enemies have ever depicted it.—Sel.

APPOINTMENTS.

By J. B. Frisbie; S. W. Rhodes

PROVIDENCE permitting, we will meet with the brethren in Caledonia, Mich., June 12th and 13th. In Wright, Ottawa Co., from the 18th to the 21st. J. B. FRISBIE. S. W. RHODES.

Support the Review with Living Testimony

By Editor

We hope that none of the brethren or sisters in any part of the field will forget the wants of the paper in regard to reading matter. Selections may be good, and a limited number may be to the point and in place; but it is living testimony from the living actors of the age that betokens the life and prosperity of any cause. A person might publish a paper, and though he had not a sympathizer in the land, he could fill it with promiscuous selections; but then it could not be the organ, or speak forth the sentiments, of a distinct people, designed to throw light on particular and definite subjects. The organ of any cause must be sustained by the energy and testimonies of those who advocate and defend that cause.
Nor should the burden of this rest upon a few. Suppose the brain of one person was prolific enough to write the REVIEW full, for instance, each week. The sameness of his style and ideas would soon become wearisome to all but very few at most of his readers. There is need of variety; and different gifts should be called in to make a paper lively and interesting. Let us hear from you then, brethren, in items of news, sketches of experience, and short and pointed articles on the reasons of our faith and hope. And may the Lord's Spirit inspire the hearts and move the pen of those who write. Our heart's desire is that the church may rise to a high and ever-increasing state of piety, holiness and prosperity in the Lord, and then let the REVIEW be its thermometer.
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