Earlier text: Sketch of ExperienceA Pause.
By R. F. Cottrell
It seems to me that we have come to an emphatic pause—a critical point in our experience in this last message. We have professed to believe that the Lord was leading us in the message—that the third angel's message is the present truth. Our faith will be tested. The way to prove the sincerity of our faith is to act in harmony with it. While fulfilling signs and prophecies, in these last days, are demonstrating the truth of revelation, the world, the professedly Christian world, are making rapid strides toward infidelity. And shall it be so with us as a people? The evidences of our faith are rapidly increasing. And will our people forget, and like Israel of old, turn back into Egypt? Many doubtless will give up the truth. Many, like Demas, love this present world, its riches, its fashions, and follies. Do you understand, brother, sister, that the Lord waits to see if you will manifest your faith by living it out? His language to us seems to be like this: “I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offense, and seek my face; in their affliction they will seek me early.” Hosea 5:15. Who will seek the Lord in his own appointed way? Who will show their faith by corresponding works? Do we desire the light still upon our way? The way is clear. Walk in the light we have received. It is sad to think that many will fail. It is not necessary. But we must do, as well as say. Who will now betray their Lord? Is it I? By grace we can stand. Lord, help us to do so. David's Cruelty.
By John Matteson
INFIDELS often accuse David of cruelty on account of the statements in 1 Chron. 20: 3, and 2 Sam. 12: 31. I will compare these texts with the Danish parallel texts, and the cruelty all vanishes away. The rendering given in the Danish version is, according to good critics, more in harmony with the original. “And he brought out the people that were in [Rabbah,] and cut them with saws, and with harrows of iron, and with axes. Even so dealt David with all the cities of the children of Ammon.” 1 Chron. 20: 3. “But the people that were in it he brought out, and he employed them to saw with saws, and to work in iron works, and with saws,” &c. “And he brought forth the people that were therein, and put them under saws and under harrows of iron, and under axes of iron, and made them pass through the brick-kiln.” “But the people that were therein he brought out, and employed them to work with saws, and in iron-works, and with iron axes, and let them go forth in the brick-kiln.” David’s disposition was not that of cruelty to his enemies. Indeed, he has furnished us with a most remarkable instance of returning good for evil, when he saved the life of his bitterest enemy, Saul. 1 Sam. 24. And this he did not only once, but twice. 1 Sam. 26. And so strong was the influence of this Christian conduct, that it did even move the heart of a Saul. “Then said Saul, I have sinned; return my son, David; for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day; behold I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly.” Verse 21. The word of God is mighty, but most powerful when practically illustrated in the humble conduct of a consistent Christian. JOHN MATTESON. The Present Time.
By Roswell F. Cottrell
I AM deeply impressed with the importance of the present time, especially to us who have for many years held the truth of the third angel's message. The evidences of our position were never so strong as now. We can clearly see the work going forward by which the image to the beast will be formed, an event we have been anticipating; and yet it is so hard to make the truth a living reality. The world and Satan, with increasing power, are leading the unwary captive. It is truly a time when the admonition of the Saviour to watch is of increasing importance. And yet how many of us who profess the faith are asleep! Can it be possible that the greater number of us will be lost? It need not be so; but murmurings and backslidings truly indicate it. Those therefore who will go through must arouse, and live up to the light of the truth. For one, I feel that I cannot afford to be lost. At the loss of all things, even life itself, give me a part with the overcomers in the immortal kingdom. The Cost.
By M. L. Huntley
THERE are many who are delighted with the beautiful harmony of the Scriptures, when their attention is called to them in the light of present truth. They find many things therein contained which they had never thought of before, and the Bible seems like a new book, filled as it is with instruction, and matters of thrilling interest. New light and beauty shine from its pages, where all before was dark and mysterious, and at first they seem to receive the truth with joy; at least until the time comes when to be consistent they must take some step involving sacrifice and self-denial. This frequently causes them to hesitate. There appear to be lions in the way, and they scarcely dare to proceed farther. Obstacles arise which appear insurmountable, and we frequently hear them say, “I would gladly do so and so if I could; but as I am situated, I cannot.” In comparison to the way they have viewed it, perhaps the way to life looks straight and narrow, and they hardly feel able to walk therein. To them the cross of Christ looks heavy. Perhaps their strength seems insufficient to enable them to lift it. It is well to count the cost, but care should be taken that we count it right. If we count the cost of the life which is to come, we ought also to count the cost of seeking the life which now is. For the former we must make some seeming sacrifice, endure a few days of self-denial and cross-bearing, and perhaps lose the friendship of some we consider dear; but in return we may have everlasting life, around which cluster joy, pleasure, and happiness, which words cannot express. But the latter—what will that cost? “Whosoever will save his life shall lose it,” and “the wages of sin is death.” If we choose to pay this awful price, we still must bear the suffering and pain consequent to this life, and may be obliged to yield it up at any moment. The martyrs counted the cost, and found nothing too dear to give in the cause of truth and right. They counted not even their lives dear unto themselves, that they might finish their course with joy, and in the face of torture and death would not do what many will now do for the sake of convenience and worldly gain. We count them happy who endured; and if the cause of God then was worthy of such sacrifices and self-denial, why so many faint-hearted when called by the word of God to be peculiar and different from the world now? Every good and every perfect gift is from God; and in him we move and have our being. Yet how often we hear matters of pecuniary interest urged as reasons for not yielding obedience to the just requirements of God. All they are, and have, or may hope to obtain, they owe to Him, and yet they scarcely dare to obey him and rely upon his promises, which are numerous and all-sufficient. The psalmist says, “I have been young and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread.” He who depends upon his own exertions alone, leans upon a frail support. If the favor of God rests upon them, they will be highly productive; but if his frown, they must fail of producing any good results. “A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.” The people of Cincinnati, Ohio, are not willing to bear the yoke the fathers have imposed on them. I clip the following from the Toledo Blade of July 13, 1871: “There are unmistakable signs at Cincinnati, that the repeal of the Sunday laws will be made the issue in future elections. The Germans are becoming much agitated on the subject. On Saturday night there was a meeting of the largest and most influential German societies, who determined to hold a meeting next Sunday, composed of representatives of all societies, regardless of nationality, who are favorable to a change in city ordinances.”
This is but one city among the many that are speaking their minds on the Sunday laws. But there will be two parties, and as it is intimated, when brought into a party platform, and made a political issue, there will be close, warm work. But judging from the past, it is easy for those who have received light on God’s law as it stands in connection with the last warning message, to determine on which side the controversy will close. The Sunday must be sustained, and the decree passed. P. STRONG. MEN OF PRINCIPLE.—The man of principle needs not the restriction of seal or signature, or any legal instrument. He deals in solitude as in public, at midnight as in sunshine. His grasped hand is as good as a bond, and his promise as sterling as gold. The complicated interests of men, which so often jar and conflict, are reconciled in him with a beautiful harmony. He is himself the embodiment of justice, the symbol of a perfect society. His charities are not the droppings of a formal pity, but the ointment of a yearning love. Maine State Conference.
By GEO. W. BARKER; W. H. BLAISDELL
According to arrangements, the fifth annual meeting of the Maine State Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, was held on the camp-ground near Skowhegan, Aug. 31, 1871. The meeting was called to order by the President, and prayer offered by Eld. J. N. Andrews, after which the following business was transacted: The churches represented at the Conference were Topsham, Canaan, Norridgewock, Woodstock, Athens, Cornville, Hartland, Falmouth, and North Jay. Ministers and licentiates belonging to the Conference, who were present and reported labors, were J. B. Goodrich, Charles Stratton, A. Barnes, and M. B. Patterson. By vote of the Conference, Elds. J. N. Andrews, W. H. Littlejohn, S. N. Haskell, sister White, and all others in good standing, were invited to take part in the deliberations of the Conference. Voted, That the President appoint a committee to nominate officers for the Conference and for Camp-meeting committee. J. N. Andrews, Artemus Atwood, and Charles Stratton, were appointed. Also Voted, That the chair appoint an auditing committee consisting of six lay members to assist the executive committee in settling accounts with ministers. Isaac Fellows, Timothy Bryant, J. Hilton, C. B. Barker, Artemus Atwood, and Wm. W. Davis, were appointed. Voted, That J. N. Andrews, W. H. Littlejohn, and S. N. Haskell, act as committee on resolutions. The subject of licensing persons who do not labor in the cause was taken up and discussed at some length by Elds. Andrews, Littlejohn, and Haskell. On motion, Voted, That the credentials of Bro. J. B. Goodrich be renewed, and that Bro. Charles Stratton receive credentials. On motion, Voted, That licenses be granted to Bro. A. Barnes, M. B. Patterson, R. S. Webber, and W. H. Blaisdell, provided they desire to labor. Voted, That Bro. R. S. Webber be appointed to take the charge of collecting the arrears on the REVIEW, Instructor, and Health Reformer. The nominating committee brought in their report, which was accepted. The following board of officers was elected: President, Geo. W. Barker, South Norridgewock; Secretary, W. H. Blaisdell, Rome; Treasurer, W. J. Haynes, South Norridgewock; Executive Committee, Geo. W. Barker, A. B. Atwood, and S. F. Grant; Camp-meeting committee, Geo. W. Barker, W. J. Haynes, and Thomas Emery. Voted, To leave the subject of the selection of grounds for the camp-meeting in future, in the hands of the camp-meeting committee. Voted, To leave the subject of further licensing in the hands of the executive committee. The reports of the Secretary and Treasurer showed the standing of the Conference to be as follows: Number of churches, 9; number of church members added during the year, 20; number of losses, 28; present number, 203; commenced to keep the Sabbath, but not yet united to any church, 24; number paying S. B., 199; number of Sabbath-school scholars, 186; amount of S. B. pledged to the Conference, $1040.91; amount of donations, $55.10; whole amount paid into the Treasury since the commencement of the year (Oct. 1, 1870), $848.33; paid out of the treasury, $838.88; balance now in the treasury, $9.45. The following resolutions were presented by the committee on resolutions, and adopted: Resolved, That we recognize the hand of divine Providence that has led us as a people while seeking to obey the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus; and that we believe that hand will still lead us if we will only follow its guidance. Resolved, That we pledge ourselves to co-operate with those who have to stand in the forefront of the conflict, in that we will, so far as in us lies, share with them in the burdens, labors, and sacrifices of the work, and that we will all lift together in sustaining the cause of Christ. Resolved, That we acknowledge the duty on our part to gather up the rays of light which God has caused to shine upon our pathway in the past, from the testimonies of his Spirit; and that we pledge ourselves to heed the solemn admonition which he has given us concerning this thing. Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with Bro. White in his feeble health, and in his heavy burdens in the work of God, and that we will aid, as far as it lies in our power, both by our means and by encouraging any of our number that are able to help in the work, that they should promptly do it. Resolved, That we pledge ourselves to be responsible for all arrears for the REVIEW, Instructor, and Health Reformer, within the bounds of this Conference. Whereas, We have heretofore enjoyed the labors of Eld. J. H. Waggoner without expense on our part, therefore Resolved, That as an expression of our gratitude for what the General Conference has thus done for us, we do hereby donate to that body the sum of one hundred dollars. Voted, That the proceedings of this Conference be forwarded to the REVIEW AND HERALD for publication. GEO. W. BARKER, President. W. H. BLAISDELL, Secretary. The Cause in Vermont.
By A. C. Bourdeau; D. T. Bourdeau
At the close of our good camp-meeting, we went home and spent one Sabbath with the church of Enosburgh. While at home, we attended to business connected with the camp-meeting, wrote reports, and prepared to resume our labors in new fields. On Tuesday of the following week, Aug. 29, we left home for our field of labor, expecting to pitch our tent the same week. But when we reached West Bolton, we learned that an appointment had been given for Eld. Estes, of Jericho Corners, to speak in that place on the Sabbath question the next Sunday evening; so we concluded to do no more in the tent enterprise that week than to find a place to pitch our tent; and we settled on Huntington Center, a village situated fourteen miles south-west of West Bolton, and about midway between West Bolton and Bristol. Sabbath, Sept. 2, we held two meetings with the brethren of West Bolton and Jericho, and addressed them on the Christian Warfare, and on the subject of Spiritual Gifts. Bro. A. S. Hutchins was present, and added to the interest of the meeting by his testimony. The next day, we gave a discourse at West Bolton on objections to the Sabbath; and in the evening Eld. Estes read a written essay of two hours on the Sabbath question, in the Baptist church, which was well filled. Of course there was policy in crowding this discourse into the night, so that we could not reply to it the same day. At the close of the meeting, Eld. Hutchins announced that we would review the Elder's discourse the next evening, and stated that the trustees of the Baptist church had refused us the use of their house, while we had often offered them the use of our tent when it was up. This told against them. The sermon was reviewed in a large school-house in the place, which, with additional seats prepared for the occasion, was literally crowded. It was estimated that there were between one hundred and fifty and two hundred persons present. At the close of the reply, an expression was called for, to know how many present believed we had the Bible argument on the Sabbath, and most of the congregation rose to their feet at once. Then those who thought that Eld. Estes had the argument were requested to stand upon their feet, and but six arose. One of these was the Baptist pastor of the place. A second discourse was delivered by Eld. E. in West Bolton last Sunday evening, on the Sabbath and Immortality of the Soul, and was replied to with good liberty the next evening. This time the Elder seemed to be aroused at the result of his first effort, and, waxing unusually fervent, he used expressions against us, which, to say the least, did not breathe that love and pity that should characterize the minister of Jesus Christ. As the result of these collisions, three more have taken their stand on the Sabbath. There are now, at least, twenty-five Sabbath-keepers that we can depend upon in Bolton and vicinity. A Bible-class and Sabbath-school of seven classes was organized last Sabbath, yet much remains to be accomplished. Bro. Hutchins designs to remain there for a season, and one of us will assist him on the Sabbath for several weeks. We have now held eight meetings in the tent in this place. Notwithstanding the frosty nights, the average attendance has not been less than two hundred. The interest is good. The Sabbath question comes up next Sunday. The tent is pitched within ten feet of the town house, which we occupy, free of charge, in case of rain or cold nights. A. C. BOURDEAU,
D. T. BOURDEAU. Huntington Center, Sept. 15, 1871. The beautiful scenery of the South equals or surpasses anything I have seen in the North. I went to middle Tennessee in March, found nearly all the early spring flowers had bloomed and gone, trees were in foliage, and in April, I saw roses, pinks, and other varieties of early summer flowers, the air soft and balmy, sunlight so strong I could but think of the expression, “The sunny, sunny South.” Kentucky is broken, and thinly settled on that account. Some parts look well and prosperous. Tennessee is a beautiful country, especially about Nashville and Murfreesboro. At the latter place, effects of the war can be plainly seen. Fortifications but little injured, with now and then the walls of dilapidated buildings, new fences and cemeteries, all show that here bloody work was done. I saw several Union and Rebel cemeteries, one containing nearly twenty-five thousand of our fallen soldiers. I felt that truly I was in a silent city of the dead, “where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest.” Their graves were arranged in circular order around a tall liberty pole, from which waves continually the “star spangled banner.” Interspersed among the graves were cannons planted in the ground for monuments of the deceased. The government have men employed to care for these grounds, who keep them looking well. My feelings were deeply impressed while viewing this city of the dead. I could but119think of the suffering, anguish, and bloodshed, that were endured by those noble soldiers who were lying there, that gave their lives for the Union and cause of freedom; of the tears, moans, and dying groans, that were heard and seen on the field of battle where they fell; of the sympathy and grief of parents, wives, orphans, brothers, sisters, and friends; tears of love and sympathy that now often flow, but do not benefit the sleepers; for death has ended all their sorrows and pains. Truly war is terrible in all its aspects, even in the thoughts of the dead here sleeping. Reflections awakened by this scenery are better felt than described. I had not long left the Ohio river before I saw what I had often read of and seen pictured, that is, the large plantation with its mansion and many negro huts or cabins, sometimes built of brick, but usually of boards or logs. They are small, one story buildings, often without windows or ventilation, except by means of the door. These buildings are now rented to the negroes who are in the employ of the planter. They receive low wages, ranging from five to ten dollars per month. The condition of this unfortunate race is truly lamentable. It is often remarked here in the North that the slave is worse off now than before he was liberated. While this remark may carry with it a strong show of truth, we must consider the subject in all its bearings, to come to a correct conclusion. I have heard some slaves admit this, at the same time making many exceptions. While visiting the hermitage or tomb of President Gen. Jackson, I had some conversation with quite an intelligent negro, who freely admitted that his condition was worse since his freedom than before, while at the same time, he said that with many it was bettered. Parting families by selling, and the whipping they received, he said was the worst of slavery; and I thought he might have added also, the amalgamation of their race, which looks to me the greatest of all sins found in slavery or elsewhere. When human beings are propagated as the beasts, for wealth or gain, to the destruction of all moral principles that should be held sacred, and when men even traffic in their own blood, I wonder that God has been so long-suffering as he has. Yet God permits mankind to fully develop character before he interferes with their iniquity. Facts learned respecting this matter, though not applicable to all, are the reason I write thus plainly. The abolition of slavery set at liberty millions of persons poorly qualified to care for themselves, and no doubt many suffered more for the necessities of life than while in slavery. As a matter of course, a slave-owner, with a few thousand dollars invested in slaves, will look to his own interests sufficiently to care for his property and keep it in condition that will yield most to his interests, unless he be brutalized to an uncommon degree. Liberation carried with it more or less of hatred from the whites, and consequently a different form of oppression, which if understood must convince all that the condition of the negro is but little improved as far as livelihood is concerned. The blacks brought up in slavery, or the older class, are less benefited than the rising generation who have some advantages of schools. Yet these advantages in some parts are very small. I could not see the reason of it, but in south Tennessee, in a vicinity where I was, some nine public school-houses had been burned, where colored schools were started, and three northern white teachers had been whipped nearly or quite to death for attempting to teach them. For them to get an education under these circumstances seems quite impossible. In other parts, schools are tolerated, and quite well sustained. The morals of the blacks are in a low condition; and this is no more than could be expected. Stealing seems to be quite prevalent among them. They regard the property of the whites as having been accumulated or earned by them, and consequently that it is not wrong to take it when they can. Bolts and locks are quite necessary. The transgression of the seventh commandment is also lightly regarded among them, owing much to their subjugation in slavery. The blacks are very numerous in the South. Passing through the country and villages on the railroads, the ratio of blacks to the whites seemed four or five to one. Since their freedom, they seem inclined to live together in cities and villages. They deserve our sympathies and prayers. The hatred of some parts of the South toward the North is alarming; and for any one to deny that there is an organization called Ku Klux, shows a lack of information. Yet doubtless many are not aware of the object of this organization. I supposed that the Ku Klux were a band of outlaws, disowned by the better part of society. But in this I was mistaken. If I was rightly informed, this organization is composed of business men, ministers, church members, and nearly all other classes. Their object is to secure what they claim to be their rights in gaining political ends. The whites were disfranchised, while to the negro was given the right of suffrage; consequently giving the colored people equality, and in that respect superior advantages above their owners or masters. The North has sent men with authority to fill offices of trust as they may feel disposed, which offices have been filled quite largely with negroes. This is regarded by the South as an insult from the North, and the result is, the Ku Klux outrages, both on the negroes and the Northern officers. There seems to be a fixed determination in the minds of the South that no negro shall ever participate in the administration of our government; and consequently such a course pursued by the North has greatly imbittered them toward us. The white people of the South do not hate the negro, as many suppose, unless he feels equal or superior to them. They want him to know and keep his place, and then there is no difficulty. Every Northerner is looked on with suspicion till he proves himself not a meddler with their political affairs. We are taught that every house divided against itself cannot stand; and truly this great Republic is in this condition. We have just reasons to fear dreadful consequences growing out of this sad condition of things. All looks dark and gloomy. The South as a Field of Labor.
This is in many respects an unfavorable field in which to labor, owing principally to the feelings of dislike which the people bear toward the North. This however gradually gives way. My first congregations there were very small, perhaps ten or twelve, while my last were between two and three hundred. There is great wealth and intelligence found in the South; and the people as a whole understand and have as good knowledge of their Bibles, as in any portion of the North I was ever in. They are remarkably kind and hospitable toward others. A warm-hearted friend you will always find in a Southerner unless he feels suspicious of you. I think for one to go South if he have friends and then keep in the circle of his influence, all would work well. I felt a deep interest in the work there, though I labored under some embarrassment. I could not get the people to come and listen to me till after I had been there some little time, and was obliged to leave them before I should after the interest was aroused. Commencing labor with the tent in this State I felt was a sufficient reason for leaving them when I did. I hope to return to them some time in the future and follow up the work commenced there. I should have no fears to choose that as a field of labor. My attachment for them is strong and I hope the future may develop much good in that part of the great gospel field. I baptized five before I left the State, and felt assured that my labors there would result in much good for the cause. As near as I could ascertain a few had decided to obey the truth, besides those baptized. I learn however that other ministers have been there and made all the distraction they could. My prayers and sympathies are toward the few that are obeying, and are also extended to all others in those parts for their salvation. May God bless and strengthen all the honest in heart and help them to obey him. E. B. LANE.
Bowling Green, Clay Co., Ind. THE LOST SHEEP.
By Brightside
“There were ninety and nine that safely lay
In the shelter of the fold;
And one was out on the hills away,
Far off from the gates of gold;
Away on the mountains wild and bare—
Away from the tender Shepherd’s care. “‘Lord, thou hast here the ninety and nine;
Are they not enough for thee?’”
But the Shepherd made answer, “This of mine
Has wandered away from me;
And although the roads be rough and steep,
I go to the desert to find my sheep.” And none of the ransomed ever knew
How deep were the waters crossed;
Nor how dark the night that the Lord passed through,
Ere He found his sheep that was lost.
Out in the desert he heard its cry,
Sick, and helpless, and ready to die. “Lord, whence are those blood-drops all the way,
That mark out the mountain’s track?”
“They were shed for one who had gone astray
Ere the Shepherd could bring him back.”
“Lord, whence are thy hands so rent and torn?”
“They were pierced to-night by many a thorn.” And all through the mountains, thunder-riven,
And up from the rocky steep,
There rose a cry to the gates of Heaven,
“Rejoice, I have found my sheep!”
And the angels echoed around the throne,
“Rejoice, for the Lord brings back his own!”
—Brightside. Osceola, Iowa.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
We have now been here two weeks. The weather and the roads have been fine; and the interest and the congregation have been much better than we expected. We seldom have less than four hundred, and sometimes as high as six hundred, hearers. Books go off well. Yesterday we introduced the REVIEW, and obtained twelve subscribers. We have thoroughly canvassed the life and death question. It was received with favor by the mass of our hearers, and with much delight by many. All declare that the Bible seems much plainer and that they can now believe it to be the word of God. The ministers are not able to hold their congregations away. There has been a Methodist Conference here for a week, with scores of ministers, but it has made no apparent difference in our attendance. Last night we introduced the Sabbath question to a crowded tent. Of course, now comes the test. We hope in God. D. M. CANRIGHT. Cattaraugus Co., N. Y.
By R. F. Cottrell
The quarterly meeting at Randolph, Sept. 16 and 17, was interesting and encouraging. Brethren from Ulysses, Pa., and from Allegany Co., N. Y., came to the meeting, and came to labor, and their presence and help were highly appreciated by the brethren in this county; and they hope to have the privilege of a frequent repetition of such visits. The interest without, in the neighborhood of the meeting, is rising. Some came from other school districts, and evinced a deep interest in what they heard. The calls for labor in new places are increasing. The field is great and the laborers few. I must enter some of these new fields. May God guide me to the right places. R. F. Cottrell. Avilla, Mo.
By H. C. Blanchard; L. D. Senter
Our meetings commenced on Wednesday evening, as appointed, and continued until the next Sunday evening. The attendance was good, and the large church that the brethren have erected here was well filled, especially toward the close of our meetings. The Lord gave us liberty in presenting the truth. Eight united with the church, and five were buried with Christ in baptism. May the Lord help them to walk in newness of life. May his blessing rest upon the dear brethren at Avilla, and they have that spirit of self-sacrifice and of humility which will fit them for a home in the kingdom of God. H. C. Blanchard,
L. D. Senter. Iroquois Co., Ill.
By R. F. Andrews; T. M. Steward
We have now been here four weeks, and some have taken hold of the truth, but we cannot tell just how many. Some are still interested, and we hope others will come out. Fall weather is coming on, so it is uncomfortable some of the time. The truth is making quite an impression, and we trust it will bear abundant fruit ere long. May the Lord bless his own truth. Pray for us, that we may be faithful in holding up the law of God and giving the last solemn warning to the world. R. F. ANDREWS,
T. M. STEWARD. The Maine Camp-meeting.
By W. K. C.
THE following report sent us by one who is not a Seventh-day Adventist, shows how the camp-meeting in Maine was looked upon by some, at least, of those who are not identified with us as a people. As such it will be of interest to the readers of the REVIEW. This meeting commenced Thursday, Aug. 31, under favorable prospects; the situation and weather being pleasant and all that one could wish. I was not present till afternoon. Thursday, P. M., sermon by Mrs. White, subject: “By their fruits ye shall know them.” A good interest was manifested. Thursday evening, Eld. Littlejohn preached from Eccl. 12 : 14 with good acceptance. Friday, A. M., Eld. Andrews gave a very able discourse on the Judgment, which was listened to with much interest. Friday, P. M., Mrs. White delivered one of her best discourses on Health Reform which was an able production, good sense mixed with Christian humility. Friday evening, Eld. Littlejohn preached a good, practical discourse. On the seventh day, Eld. Andrews, Mrs. White, and Eld. Littlejohn, improved the day to the edification of all present who were interested. Sunday, A. M., Mrs. White spoke on the subject of eternal life to a large and attentive audience. In the afternoon, sermon by Eld. Littlejohn, a clear, able, and masterly production which gave tone and advance to the cause in Maine. The remaining public exercises were well received. Monday evening, Eld. Haskell gave a good, sound discourse. The social meetings were conducted with solemnity and deep-toned earnestness characterized by a spirit of humble confession and turning from wrong to right. A spirit of Christian union and sympathy seemed to pervade the entire camp-ground, and at the closing interview all seemed to feel that the meeting had been a success, and the effort not made in vain. May the Lord help those who formed good resolutions at this camp-meeting to carry them into practice. W. K. C. R. C. BAKER
By R. C. Baker
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: I want to say to you through our good paper, that my interest in the cause of truth has not abated. From my heart I can say, “The Lord is good, and his mercy endureth forever.” When I look back on my past life, and reflect on the gracious dealings of the Lord with me, I feel to magnify his name. He has saved me from many snares of the devil. When the dark waves of despair had well-nigh overwhelmed me, he lifted up my sinking head and gave me new courage to press forward. I have found him a present help in time of trouble. What have I rendered to the Lord for all his benefits? A very poor and imperfect service, at best. But I want a new conversion to the work of God—a daily dying to self and to the world. I want to be where I can “glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope; and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts.” It seems to me I realize as never before, the shortness of time, and the increasing perils that surround us, and the necessity of constant watchfulness, and an entire renunciation of the world. “Come out from among them and be ye separate” saith the Lord, “and touch not the unclean.” The spirit of the meek, self-denying Saviour and that of the proud, pleasure-seeking worldling, can never blend together. One must give place to the other. How important it is that we be clothed with that complete celestial armor described by Paul in Ephesians 6. If we have this heavenly armor on, we shall certainly be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. The “evil day” hastens on apace; who of us shall be able to stand? By the help of the Lord I will strive to be an overcomer. Self-Examination.
By Eugenia Piper
“WITH the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Rom. 10:10. When the refining and purifying work of the Spirit is done in the heart, the confession of past wrongs becomes at once a necessity and a pleasing duty. The natural heart, with its pride and self-love, will shrink from so humiliating a duty; but with the Holy Spirit to help our infirmities, this cross may become a pleasure for Christ’s sake. I want a humble heart. I am praying daily for that meek and quiet spirit, that lowliness of mind, that is well pleasing unto God. In agony of heart I sometimes exclaim, Oh, wretched that I am! Shall I ever attain unto the just and holy requirements laid down in God’s word for his remnant people? I realize that there is a great and blessed work to be wrought in my heart ere I am counted worthy to have the seal of God upon my forehead, and be numbered with those who are saved. At times I am pained beyond measure, at the exceeding sinfulness of my heart. I do not always esteem others better than myself. I do not always carry a spirit of kindness and good will, that would prompt to pure, unselfish acts of love for Christ’s sake. But this I must do regardless of the results. In one thing I am certain, I must strive for the victory. I am too apt to reflect the spirit of those with whom I associate, and unless I exercise great watchfulness and prayer, am apt to do and say those very things I condemn in others. Oh! how displeasing this must be in the sight of a just and holy God; whereas, I ought, when in contact with inconsistent or lukewarm professors, to show a better spirit, and set a double watch over my words and actions, lest the truth have none effect, or bring me into greater condemnation. Time is too short to delay any needful preparation to receive the full blessing of God. And what do we accomplish without his blessing? I must be vigilant on my part, lest I be spewed out at last. I cannot bear the thought, after all my efforts, of failing just in sight of the prize, as we are told many will do in the sifting time. The declining state of the churches indicates this time as near at hand. Many are lured from the lowly, cross-bearing life of their Master, into the broad, free, and easy way. Many are being shaken and tossed with the wild commotion of doubts and fears. Few will keep humble enough to cling to the anchor that will save them. I often ask myself, Shall I be one of them? Satan’s malicious arts are exercised against all. Who will escape? Will you, my friend? Will you, neighbor? Will you, my brother? Will you, my sister? Shall we confess, and forsake, and find pardon, ere it be forever too late? A little tribulation, a little persecution, a little suffering of body and mind, only a little compared with many others, only a little for Christ’s sake, and then—life eternal. Who would not buy at such a price? By the grace of God I mean to keep trying. Will not you aid me by your prayers, that with you I may inherit the kingdom?
EUGENIA PIPER.