Brethren and Sisters in Avondale St. Helena, California January 17, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 263. Dear Brethren and Sisters in Avondale:
I feel a deep interest in the work that is going forward in Avondale and in the plans that are being made for the future. I often wish it might be my privilege to visit you and see the advancement that has been made.
(22LtMs, Lt 4, 1907, 1)
I greatly rejoice in the prosperity of the school. The Lord is fulfilling His promises. There is safety in trusting in Him. Let Him direct in your counsels. Do not let the expense incurred in establishing the work hang as a lodestone to discourage you. Be determined to clear away the debt from each department.
(22LtMs, Lt 4, 1907, 2)
The outlook as you present it is truly encouraging. Be of good cheer, and go forward. I have had much light in regard to the Health Retreat. It should be a working agency for all who live in that vicinity and for those who gather at Avondale to gain an education. Nothing should be done to circumscribe or hinder the work for which the retreat was established.
(22LtMs, Lt 4, 1907, 3)
The students in the Avondale school should have the advantages of those chapters of experience to be gained in this little sanitarium. In no case should this part of their education be dropped out or neglected. The Avondale Retreat can be made an educating influence;, and in connection with its work, principles may be brought into the work of the students, that shall help to qualify them to do the special work for this time.
(22LtMs, Lt 4, 1907, 4)
The Avondale Health Retreat was established by the direction of the Lord before the Sydney Sanitarium was built at Wahroonga. But one institution need not interfere with the work of the other. A special effort should now be made to set in active operation the Avondale Health Retreat.
(22LtMs, Lt 4, 1907, 5)
We have wonderful encouragements from the Word of God. We must every one have a firm hold upon the Mighty One of Israel. In Him is our strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 4, 1907, 6)
Lt 6, 1907
Church Members in Australasia St. Helena, California January 17, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in AUCR 03/11/1907. + To our church members in Australasia Dear Brethren and Sisters:
In the night season I was speaking to assemblies of our people in Australasia. I now wish to say to you with my pen that which, if it were possible, I would gladly say with my voice.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 1)
The Lord calls your attention to His Word. “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.] The truth will triumph gloriously. Let the churches begin to do the work that the Lord has given them—the work of opening the Scriptures to those who are in darkness. My brethren and sisters, there are souls in your neighborhood who, if they were judiciously labored for, would be converted. Efforts must be made for those who do not understand the Word. Let those who profess to believe the truth become partakers of the divine nature, and then they will see that the fields are ripe for the work that all can do whose souls are prepared by living the Word. I entreat you to begin to work for those who are unconverted. Let the beams of light shining upon your own pathway shine upon the pathway of others. Think of how much truth you can give them by presenting a plain “Thus saith the Lord.”
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 2)
“Ye sent unto John,” Christ said, “and he bare witness unto the truth. But I receive not testimony from man; but these things I say, that ye might be saved. He was a burning and a shining light; and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light. But I have greater witness than that of John; for the works which the Father hath given Me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of Me, that the Father hath sent Me. And the Father Himself which hath sent Me hath borne witness of Me. Ye have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His shape, and ye have not His word abiding in you; for whom He hath sent, Him ye believe not. Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me. And ye will not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:33-40.]
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 3)
There are many in our churches to whom these words are applicable, “Ye would not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” [Verse 40.] I am charged to present this chapter, the fifth of John, to our churches. Unless those who have had such great light shall awake from their sleep, and keep their lamps burning, they will slumber until they will at last find that their lamps are without oil. Now, now, without delay, let our people improve the opportunity to arise and shine. Let them take the Bible and on their knees before God confess their sins of neglect. Let every other consideration become secondary. Earthly, common business is of little consequence compared with eternal interests.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 4)
Awake, ye sleeping virgins, and trim your lamps. With the Bible in your hands, go to your neighbors with the message of present truth. In the spirit of deep repentance, confess your past neglect in the assembly of God’s people, as they meet to worship God. Then the Lord will pardon your transgressions and forgive your sin. If you feel that you have not the ability or the knowledge that are needed in order to present the truth to others, read your neglected Bible, and seek for an understanding of the truth as it is in Jesus.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 5)
Many have not developed a Christlike character in the daily life and conversation. They have not lived for the Lord Jesus and for Him alone, daily gaining a fitness to unite with those who have overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. There are many church members who have not cherished love and respect for one another. Let the members of our churches in Australasia now obtain oil for their vessels with their lamps—the holy oil of experience gained by developing Christlike traits of character.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 6)
Before it is forever too late, study the Scriptures with prayer. Let all church members cease to speak the language of condemnation and begin to work intelligently to obtain the pearl of great price—the meekness and lowliness of Him who took humanity upon Himself, that human beings might be partakers of the divine nature. Let there be heard no unkind comments about others. Let each one remember that his own case needs to be cured by a practice of the precepts found in the Word of God. Let no soul exalt himself or herself. Let not one word be spoken to disparage others. Seek instead to speak words that will bring courage and hope to those who are perishing out of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 7)
Let fathers and mothers seek together for the truths found in the Word of God. Let them clothe their speech with the language of a converted soul and then, with great earnestness and love, encircle their children with the influence of truly sanctified hearts. The Scriptures are to be to them the bread of life and their great lesson book.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 8)
May the Lord help you to understand His Word. If you will heed and practice this Word, you will become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Let our ministers and teachers seek knowledge from the one true source. Let them seek the Lord with much prayer, earnestly searching His Word to find the hidden treasure. Now, just now, is the golden opportunity to understand the truths of the Word, and let this opportunity be improved by all. Let the book of Daniel be read and its instruction heeded.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 9)
“Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.... Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand, three hundred, and five and thirty days. But go thou (Daniel) thy way till the end be; for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days.” [Daniel 12:10, 12, 13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 10)
Daniel is today standing in his lot, and we are to give him place to speak to the people. Our message is to go forth as a lamp that burneth. “At that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people; and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation, even to that same time; and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.” [Verses 1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 11)
These words present the work that we are to do in these last days. We are not one-half awake. We have not the power that is essential to the doing of the work that must be done. We must come into life, come into union. Now, just now, we must stand in that position where repentance and pardon shall be the striking features of our work. There must be no quarreling. It is too late to engage with Satan in his work of blinding eyes. It is too late to give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 12)
I am instructed to say that when the Holy Spirit gives tongue and utterance, we shall see a work done similar to that done on the day of Pentecost. The representatives of Christ will work intelligently. There will not be found one man here and another there seeking to tear down and destroy.
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 13)
“Before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord’s anger come upon you, seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought His judgment. Seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” [Zephaniah 2:2, 3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 6, 1907, 14)
Lt 8, 1907
Olsen, O. A. and his fellow workers St. Helena, California January 17, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in AUCR 03/18/1907. + Elder O. A. Olsen and his fellow workers My dear Brethren:
We feel an intense interest in the work in Australia. I give thanks to our heavenly Father for the encouraging news received from that field in the last mail, especially the good report concerning the building up of the office of publication at Warburton. The removal of this work from Melbourne was in accordance with the will of the Lord. Now let the work grow, and let there be the strongest union possible among the workers, heart cemented to heart. In order that this union may exist, let your hearts be joined together in Christ Jesus. A great love for Christ will keep brother in union with his brother. All will be filled with a helpful desire to be laborers together with God. We need less of self and more of Christ. Faith, living faith in Christ, is to be a growing principle, filling us with determination to obey the Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 1)
I saw One standing in the midst of you, saying with clear voice and deep fervor:
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 2)
“Press together, press together. Love Christ with all the heart with all the soul, with all your strength, with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself. This do, and ye shall live.”
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 3)
“A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ said to His disciples, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.] The disciples did not then understand the love that Christ had for them, but after they had witnessed the scenes of His humiliation and death, they understood more fully the depths of His marvelous love.
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 4)
What shameful humiliation the Redeemer suffered. Priests and rulers, scoffing at Him and mocking Him as He hung on the cross, said, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. If He be the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him. He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now, if He will have Him; for He said, I am the Son of God.” [Matthew 27:42, 43.]
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 5)
Those who spoke these sneering words did not remember that the Old Testament Scriptures foretold that this would take place. In the fifty-third chapter of Isaiah the prophet says, “Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? For He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground; He hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. Surely He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” [Verses 1-5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 6)
Brethren, the angels of God are in our world, and satanic agencies are here also. I am permitted to see the inclination of certain ones to follow their own strong traits of character. If they refuse to yoke up with others who have had a long experience in the work, they will become blinded by self-confidence, not discerning between the false and the true. It is not safe that such ones should stand in the position of leaders, to follow their own judgment and plans.
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 7)
It is those who accept the warnings and cautions given them who will walk in safe paths. Let not men yield to the burning desire to become great leaders or to the desire independently to devise and lay plans for themselves and for the work of God. It is easy for the enemy to work through some who, having themselves need of counsel at every step, undertake the guardianship of souls without having learned the lowliness of Christ. These need counsel from the One who says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 8)
In every church bear the message that man is not to exalt his own judgment. Meekness and lowliness of heart will lead men to desire counsel at every step. And the Lord will say, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Verse 29.] It is our privilege to learn of Jesus. But when men, full of self-confidence, think that it is their place to give counsel, instead of desiring to be counseled by their experienced brethren, they will listen to voices that will lead them in strange paths. “My sheep,” saith Christ, “hear My voice, and follow Me; but a stranger will they not follow.” [See John 10:27, 5.] Would that every minister realized the solemn responsibility resting upon him to carry the work forward without blemish. The instruction given me is, “Speak the words of Christ, ‘Take My yoke upon you, and follow Me.’”
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 9)
I have a warning for our churches in Australia. If Elder McCullagh had followed the cautions and warnings that God gave him, if he had followed the way of the Lord and had not gone for advice and counsel to those who were strong in their own way, but not in the way of God, linking up with them, he would today be with us. Many times the Lord abundantly blessed him; many times did the Lord give him evidence as to the right path for his feet to follow; but he thought that he ought to be the head man, and he walked where Christ did not lead. He took a course contrary to the light given him by God, and today the result stands revealed.
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 10)
The Lord desires His workers to counsel together, not to move independently. Those who are set as ministers and guides to the people should pray much when they meet together. This will give wonderful help and courage, binding heart to heart and soul to soul, leading every man to unity and peace and strength in his endeavors.
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 11)
Christ taught His disciples that they needed to press out into fields where nothing had been done. At one time they urged Him to eat, saying, “Master, eat. But He said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought Him aught to eat? Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work. Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest. Behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto eternal life; that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.... I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labor; other men labored, and ye are entered into their labors.” [John 4:31-36, 38.]
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 12)
There is stern, earnest work to be done. The pioneers in our work put forth untiring effort. Let all now take hold and act as if they were preparing for a great harvest. Let them do all in their power to enlighten blind eyes. Let them go forth to work with the Bible in their hands, and may the Lord give them a true, peaceable spirit. I beseech our church members not to lose precious time in confusing and hindering the work of the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 13)
Read the fifth chapter of John. The whole chapter is full of instruction that we all need. “Then answered Jesus and said unto them, The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He seeth the Father do; for what things soever He doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and showeth Him all things that Himself doeth; and He will show Him greater works than these, that ye may marvel.” [Verses 19, 20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 14)
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.” [Verse 24.]
(22LtMs, Lt 8, 1907, 15)
Lt 10, 1907
Members of the Oakland Church St. Helena, California January 18, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 93-94. + To the Members of the Oakland Church:
I must write to you regarding your proposed church building. I am pleased with the site you have selected. It is near to the street railway, and thus very convenient for those who come from a distance.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 1)
I have been bidden to give you words of warning regarding the meetinghouse that you shall build. This is a time for you to examine yourselves, to see if you are standing in the right position regarding this matter.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 2)
In Oakland we need a church building. Soon a simple and inexpensive place of worship should be erected. In this the brethren and sisters in Oakland are to show that they fear the Lord by refusing to build a stylish and costly church. We are living in perilous times; judgment is to follow judgment. Let us now reveal in our works that we believe that the time of God’s judgments is come, that we are approaching the day when there will be no certainty regarding anything in this world. By our works as well as our testimony we are to tell that the end of all things is at hand.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 3)
We are to take heed to the warnings given in the calamity that has overtaken San Francisco. The people of Oakland must not give the people of San Francisco cause to think that they feel secure. But that is what they would understand your action to mean if at this time you should erect a large and costly meetinghouse.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 4)
The great earthquake of San Francisco is to be followed by earthquakes in other places. We need not be surprised if after a time Oakland should become so wicked that calamities will fall on this city also.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 5)
Those who do not believe that the Lord is coming soon are building without stopping to consider why the Lord wiped out a greater part of the city of San Francisco; but the leading men of San Francisco are no pattern for us to follow.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 6)
One thing will be plainly developed at this time, one question be clearly settled—whether we are solid Christians, or merely professors. We should let it be well understood that we regard this terrible calamity as the stroke of an offended God, because His treasure has been lavishly spent to glorify self. Let our works be such that men can see that we are but sojourners here, that we are seeking a better country, even a heavenly.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 7)
We may well fear and tremble for the things that shall be in the future. Many of the citizens of Oakland will be weighed in the balances and found wanting. Would you be of that company? You need now to show in life and character the sanctification of the gospel and a belief in Christ’s soon coming in power and great glory. Will you show faith by genuine faith in the signs of the Lord’s second coming?
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 8)
We are to bring the truth into all our works; we are to be sanctified through the truth and show to a world dead in trespasses and sin that we are a holy nation, a peculiar people, a chosen generation, zealous of good works.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 9)
The death of Christ was accomplished to make us genuine Christians through faith in Him. We carry a message of sacred truth, and through the righteousness of Christ we are to become one in Him, separate from the world, distinguished from it by the features of our faith that make us heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. We are Christ’s witnesses. By our baptismal vow we are under solemn pledge to witness for Him. Through the merits of Christ, we are to let our light shine forth to the world, that they, by seeking our good works, may glorify our Father which is in heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 10)
At this time the building of costly meetinghouses in any place is not in accordance with our faith. There are many places where meetinghouses will soon have to be built; therefore we should not put large sums of money in any one place.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 11)
At Mountain view a meetinghouse is greatly needed and should soon be built. The oakland church will need to help the brethren and sisters in Mountain View. If five thousand dollars could be given for the building of a suitable meetinghouse for this sister church, the enterprise could go forward at once, and the two meetinghouses would soon be completed.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 12)
All who help in this essential work will receive the blessing of God. I hope that none in Oakland will object to appropriating a portion of the means to help in building the meetinghouse in Mountain View. May the Lord help and sanctify and bless in the work of building in Oakland and Mountain View. May all hearts he made willing, is my prayer. The Lord will certainly bless those who will work unitedly to carry forward this work at this time.
(22LtMs, Lt 10, 1907, 13)
Lt 12, 1907
Nicola, Brother and Sister [C. C.] St. Helena, California January 23, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in UL 37; 1MR 135. + Dear Brother and Sister Nicola:
What a pleasure it would be to me to visit you at Melrose. I would be glad to look once more on the beautiful country there, and to ride out and see the lakes again; they are certainly very beautiful. When I first visited Melrose, I thought that a more desirable site for a sanitarium could not be found, and I have not changed my mind I have written in my diary some things in regard to the Melrose Sanitarium and its advantages, and I will send you a copy.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 1)
I would be pleased to see Sister King again. I look back with pleasure to my visit to the Melrose Sanitarium; for you all did all you possibly could to make my stay there a pleasant one.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 2)
I am interested in the improvements you have made in your buildings. Now the objectionable features in the noble building where you live are removed. I knew that something must be done for this building, and I am thankful to God that in His providence this has been done. Your building, standing on the rise of the ground, will now have a better view than before.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 3)
My brother, I have a burden for the city of Boston. I pray that the Lord will arouse the missionary spirit among our people to work for this city and its suburbs. I pray that He will raise up laborers to give the last message of warning, and that sheaves may be gathered from this place for the great harvest.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 4)
Many, very many, will be terribly surprised when the Lord shall come suddenly as a thief in the night. Let us watch and pray, lest coming suddenly He find us sleeping. My soul is deeply stirred as I consider how much we ought to do for perishing souls. The prediction of Daniel, “Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased,” is to be fulfilled in our giving of the warning message; many are to be enlightened regarding the sure word of prophecy. [Daniel 12:4.] There ought to be one thousand laborers at work in Boston today.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 5)
The salvation of souls should be our first consideration. I am troubled when I see many rejoicing in temporal prosperity; for those who possess worldly treasure seldom seek earnestly to secure the heavenly. They are in danger of falling into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown man in destruction. To those who seek the heavenly treasure, a more cheerful and encouraging prospect is held out. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.] “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold upon eternal life.” [1 Timothy 6:17-19.]
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 6)
There are some things we do not understand concerning the problems of this life. We need clear moral perceptions in order to understand the mystery of godliness; we have such an uncertain sense of eternal realities. But in Christ there is certainty. Through Him we may know the love of God, which passeth knowledge.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 7)
Many who profess to be Christians do not advance step by step in the knowledge of God and in true faith in Jesus Christ. Feeling is not to be the test of our religion. We must rely firmly upon God. We must eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God. This means that we shall appropriate to ourselves the words of Scripture, and live by them, letting all the life’s actions be controlled by a “Thus saith the Lord.”
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 8)
My dear friends, we do not realize that we can have the pure, unadulterated faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We need a more firm reliance upon a “Thus saith the Lord.” If we have this, we shall not trust to feeling and be ruled by feeling. God asks us to rest in His love. It is our privilege to know the Word of God as a sure and tried guide, an infallible assurance. Let us work on the faith side of the question. Let us believe and trust and talk faith and hope and courage. Let the praise of God be in our hearts and on our lips oftener than it is. “Whosoever offereth praise, glorifieth God.” [See Psalm 50:23.] Keep the mind stayed upon God, and know the love of Christ as the word of God reveals it. This Word is life. Talk of Christ; call others to behold Him as your Redeemer.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 9)
It is our privilege to rest in an active, living faith in Christ as the Life-giver. It is our privilege to comprehend with all saints what is the length and depth and height, and to know the love of God which passeth knowledge, and be filled with all the fulness of God. Let us contemplate Christ as the One in whom all fulness dwells. Beholding Him as our personal Saviour, we shall appreciate the value of His saving grace. We should think about Jesus more than we do. We should let His praise be in our hearts; we should speak of the love that has been so abundantly expressed for us. We certainly have every reason to praise God with heart and soul and voice, saying, I will praise the Lord for His great love wherewith He hath loved me. Let your patients see that it is their privilege also to let the heart abound with grateful thanksgiving. My brother and sister, Lift Him up, the Christ of Calvary; lift Him up, that the world may behold Him. Talk of His goodness, sing of His love, and give Him the grateful thanks of your hearts.
(22LtMs, Lt 12, 1907, 10)
Lt 14, 1907
Taylor, E. G. St. Helena, California January 25, 1907 Previously unpublished. + My dear friend:
I read your letter and will say that I am very thankful to be able to point you to the Word. “The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 4:16, 17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 14, 1907, 1)
“Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] Christ speaks to you. Hear what He saith, and believe. “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Take this assurance from the Word of the Lord, and believe it. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 14, 1907, 2)
I point you to Jesus Christ. He knows every feature of your character. He asks you to come to Him with all your troubles, all your perplexities, and His Word declares that the One who died for the sins of the world will give you rest. He knows your heart. He knows that you are heavy laden with a burden you cannot carry, and He gives you the promise of relief. “Take My yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of Me.” Take your Bible, and tell the Lord Jesus that you will learn of Him out of His Word, that you will heed the words of Christ. Read these words carefully. You will find them in Matthew 11:28-30.
(22LtMs, Lt 14, 1907, 3)
Will you turn away from the words of Christ, to bring you case to any human being? Carry your burden to the Lord Jesus. With your Bible in your hand, say, “I claim Thy promise. I come to Thee; for I am weary and heavy laden with sin. I believe Thy Word, and I accept Thy promise. I place myself under the yoke of obedience, and believe that I shall have the rest Thou hast promised.”
(22LtMs, Lt 14, 1907, 4)
My dear sister, pray, believe, and receive the freedom that Christ alone can give. I cannot believe for you. You must believe for yourself; and believing, you will receive the fulfilment of the promise. This is faith. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] Cast your helpless soul on Christ. He has invited you to do this and has promised that if you ask, you shall receive. Do the work that rests upon you to do. Believe, believe!
(22LtMs, Lt 14, 1907, 5)
Lt 16, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister [S. N.] St. Helena, California January 30, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 366. + Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I dared not venture to attend the meeting that has just closed at San Jose; for I have much to do in preparing my writings, and in making such selections from them for our people as are needed at this time. Letters must be answered and many things explained. It is a study to know what is best to bring before the people and what is best to leave out.
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 1)
We would be pleased to see you in our home at any time. We have ample room, and plenty to eat and drink, as we have ever had. I would be pleased to have you write me about the house in Oakland. Are you occupying it yet?
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 2)
In looking over the writings of the past few years, I find that a mass of matter has been copied. Maggie has put in good time and has been as true to steel to my work. She leaves us very soon now. I shall miss her much; for I shall never find one to take her place. I dread to think of her leaving; but she has served me faithfully, and I cannot hold her longer.
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 3)
I expect to come to Oakland when matters are arranged in regard to the case of Elder Rice and wife. In looking over what I have already written on this matter, I find that I will not have to produce more unless new circumstances shall arise. With few exceptions everything is made very clear. I will present that which I have written when we are called to Oakland to consider this case. Among other writings I found the letter that I wrote to Elder Rice and wife in 1902. How could I take any different course from that which I have taken? I feel clear in my course in sustaining them, and I know that the course pursued toward them by their brethren was unchristian and does not bear the endorsement of God. The Lord would not be pleased to have this matter remain much longer as it is.
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 4)
When will we be able to appreciate the instruction given us in the eighth chapter of Proverbs? Heavenly wisdom is here speaking to the human family; wonderful instruction is given. The Lord is earnestly seeking to instruct every soul who will be taught. There are many things to be set in order. May the Lord guide us with wisdom, is my earnest prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 5)
Last night I awoke at twelve o’clock. In my sleep, scene after scene was presented before me. All that I saw is not distinct to me yet; but one matter was made clear. The Lord can never make successful the efforts of men who have little control of their words and spirit, who watch the church members and ministers, to criticize and judge their actions. This overseeing on the part of man had better cease.
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 6)
There are among us men whom it is not safe to place in charge of the work; for they would take upon themselves the responsibility of telling their fellow workers their duty. Men who are so ready to criticize and to control others will, when placed in responsible places, do a work similar to that which has been done in Oakland. We have a God to whom to go for wisdom and counsel. Christ, who gave His life for man, understands the value and the needs of the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 7)
The course pursued in the case of Elder Rice and wife by the brethren is inconsistent with the Word, and we need much wisdom to know how to deal with it. Hasty and inconsiderate actions result from a lack of judgment and lead to wrongdoing. But that which is most to be lamented is that the young converts will be hurt by this influence and their confidence in the cause of God shaken. Let us pray that when the time shall come to act, we may be ready.
(22LtMs, Lt 16, 1907, 8)
Lt 18, 1907
Belden, Vina St. Helena, California February 3, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 10MR 86. Dear Sister Belden:
We received your letter in the last mail. When you write again, please tell us where you are living, how you are situated, and what you propose to do. I understand that you intend to remain on Norfolk Island. How do you expect to make your living? We are anxious to know all that you can tell us about yourself.
(22LtMs, Lt 18, 1907, 1)
I should also be pleased if you would tell me all you can of the workers sent to Norfolk Island. I heard that a laborer and his wife have been sent there. I hope this is true; for that island ought to have more help. If house-to-house labor could be done, it would be a great advantage. We are nearing the close of this earth’s history, and we must labor intelligently and in the way of the Lord to press the work ahead. I will send you copies of letters, which you may give to this brother to read.
(22LtMs, Lt 18, 1907, 2)
I wish to make mention of the dental outfit that I lent to Brother Belden. I should like to have it sent to Brother Hindson, and then I can plan for its future use.
(22LtMs, Lt 18, 1907, 3)
I am sorry to say that Frank Belden is so far off the track of true faith and Christian living that unless he makes a change, he will be no good to the cause of God. He is in sympathy with Dr. Kellogg. He has a fighting spirit and would go to war over the matter, bringing dishonor upon the cause of God by his course of action. I am sorry; for he is my much-loved sister’s child. But to grieve over these things will do no good. It is his soul’s salvation that I am concerned about.
(22LtMs, Lt 18, 1907, 4)
I have written this letter under difficulties. May the Lord guide and direct you all in Norfolk Island. Christ is soon coming, and I pray that our people will wake up to the situation. May the Lord strengthen and bless the workers on Norfolk Island, that something may be accomplished. I have much work to do; I want to do it intelligently and in the fear of God. I desire to work for the salvation of souls. May the Lord guide us all. Be of good courage in God. While you trust in Him, He will help and bless and save you.
(22LtMs, Lt 18, 1907, 5)
In love.
(22LtMs, Lt 18, 1907, 6)
Lt 20, 1907
Olsen, O. A. St. Helena, California February 2, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in KC 166-167. + Elder O. A. Olsen
Sydney, Australia Dear Brother:
The last steamer from Australia brought us many letters from our friends at Sydney, Wahroonga, and other places.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 1)
We are deeply interested in the work in which Brother and Sister Starr are engaged in Sydney. There is room for several evangelists to be working at the same time in Sydney. Encourage Elder Starr and his wife to press forward with the work they have begun in Sydney and other places.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 2)
Do not let the work at the sanitarium hinder them from extending the work they have begun in Sydney in other fields. There should be many appointed to engage in this line of work in the cities and towns and villages.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 3)
The Lord has given to Brother Starr and his wife ability and an experience in giving Bible readings and holding meetings. By drawing close to those for whom they labor, they can be a help and blessing to many. They should cultivate their gifts for this work and encourage and teach others to engage in the same work. Let our brethren encourage them to use their gifts in the unworked fields where they are most needed.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 4)
Our sanitarium at Takoma Park is nearing completion. Our brethren hope to open the institution about the first of April. We should have a strong medical faculty at the Washington institutions, but where are they to be found? Elder Irwin has spoken to me several times about his conviction that Dr. and Mrs. Kress were needed in Washington, to give a mold to the medical and spiritual work to be done there, and to influence our medical work throughout the field. To him I have said, The time is not yet. The work in Australia must not be crippled.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 5)
In my last interview with Elder Irwin, I said, If Dr. Kress could be spared from Wahroonga without crippling the work in Australia, it would be well to call him to Washington. The work there is very important. It has been delayed too long. Strong physicians will there do much to strengthen our work throughout the field. Therefore if good faithful workers can be secured to take their place at Wahroonga, and if their minds are drawn toward the Washington work, secure their transfer if possible.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 6)
And now through the transfer of the Drs. Richards from England to Australia, it seems that the way is opening for the Drs. Kress to come to Washington. My last letter from Dr. Kress shows that his mind is turning toward America.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 7)
In my last letter from Dr. Kress he says that his wife’s health is poor and that she needs a change of climate. He seems desirous of coming to America for a time and would be pleased to be at the opening of the sanitarium. To him it appears that the sanitarium work in Australia is now arranging itself so that it will be possible for him and his wife to be released from Wahroonga. The Drs. Richards are preparing to unite with the Wahroonga Sanitarium, and he thinks that Elder Fulton will have to remain in Australia for some time on account of the health of his wife, and considers that his influence will be very valuable. With his help, he thinks that the way will be open for him and Mrs. Kress to leave.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 8)
I believe that the Lord has been working to bring about changes that would open the way for Dr. Kress to come to Washington. We need him there very much, and we need him just now, at the opening of the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 9)
I have written to you as early as possible, and have written hurriedly. I wish that Dr. Kress could get here before the opening of the sanitarium in April.
(22LtMs, Lt 20, 1907, 10)
Lt 22, 1907
Kress, D. H. St. Helena, California February 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Dr. D. H. Kress
Wahroonga, Sydney, Australia Dear Brother:
I received your very welcome letter on Friday, February 1. The possibility of your being able to return to America, to help in the work at Washington, pleases us all very much. In the last interview I had with Elder Irwin, I expressed the belief that if the move could be made without serious loss to the sanitarium where you are now presiding, that it would be wise for you to make this change. We discussed the matter quite fully, and at last came to this understanding, that if in your judgment the work at Wahroonga could be left in other hands, we would ask you to transfer your labors to the work in Washington.
(22LtMs, Lt 22, 1907, 1)
Your last letter shows that your minds as a family have turned toward America; and I take this as an evidence that the Lord would have this change made. Taking everything into consideration, I believe the Lord is working out this plan for His own name’s glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 22, 1907, 2)
We desire that your experience shall be of value not only to the sanitarium in Washington, but to our sanitariums in other places. The prospect of your taking up work in this field is a very pleasant one to contemplate. The experience you have had in the Wahroonga Sanitarium will enable you to be a great blessing to the new sanitarium at Washington. My prayer is that the blessing of the Lord may attend you in your preparations for your journey. If you could accompany your wife, I think it would be better for you all. We shall pray for you as you journey across the water, that all blessings may be provided for you.
(22LtMs, Lt 22, 1907, 3)
I hope that you will be able to be present at the opening of the Washington Sanitarium. I am so glad that our Father is affected by our joys as well as by our griefs. We may put our trust in Christ; for He is the Sent of God. He bears to us the revelation of God’s will. He is the Word. He is the sympathizing Saviour. Our bodily wants as well as our spiritual come under the supervision of God. We leave you in His care, in your preparations for your voyage, and in your journey across the water; and we pray that He will be full of kindness and sympathy for you.
(22LtMs, Lt 22, 1907, 4)
With this I send you a copy of my letter to Elder Olsen. Be of good courage in the Lord. In much love to all your family.
(22LtMs, Lt 22, 1907, 5)
Lt 24, 1907
Daniells, A. G. NP February 4, 1907 [typed] Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 186; 6Bio 120. + Elder A. G. Daniells
Takoma Park, Washington, D. C. Dear Brother Daniells:
I have just read your letter of January 18 to W. C. White, in which you speak concerning organization and point out that efforts are being made to confuse our people on every possible point.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 1)
I have received instruction from the Lord that at this time we need to humble our souls before God. We need to carefully study the present situation. We must not send off our men of experience and understanding so as to leave the citadel unguarded. We need at Battle Creek men who know when to speak and when to keep silent. A strong testimony should be borne there all the time regarding proper organization. Our brethren in responsibility there should be instructed, regarding this matter, and taught to give the trumpet a certain sound. It is high time for us to stand watching, clad in all the armor of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 2)
The movements of Elder A. T. Jones must be carefully watched. Meet him with a plain declaration of the truth. The Word of God must be our weapon of warfare.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 3)
Let us now seek the Lord in earnest prayer that He will direct in all matters regarding our new buildings. If the work does not come out just as we expected it would, let us bear in mind that even this may be in the Lord’s plan. Do not let us seek to reprove; do not let us spend time in regretting what has been done; for in the end it may prove a blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 4)
I am bidden to say to our brethren and sisters, Let no contention arise over the work already done that you cannot help. The thing is done; make the best of it. As the Lord’s dear children, we need now to seek Him in most earnest, humble prayer; and in accordance with His promise, He will bring the Spirit upon us in rich measure.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 5)
Brother Daniells, draw nigh to God; tell your people to draw nigh to God. Let every soul claim the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] “This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” [1 John 5:4.] We need to hang our helpless souls on God, trusting Him as little children trust their parents.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 6)
To our laborers I say, Take care of your health. I am taking care of my health; and I scarcely suffer any pain. I awake early in the morning, sometimes at two, often at three. I consider it a great blessing if I can sleep until four o’clock. As soon as I rise in the morning, I prepare myself for work. My pen is in my hand much of the time during the day. For the past week I have had no fire in my room, and my windows have been open all day. We have had rain for almost a month. One day the sun shone out as warmly as in summer; but this weather did not last. In the night the rain came on again, and the sky has not been clear for several days.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 7)
The end is near, and I am seeking the Lord earnestly for wisdom and grace to do my allotted work. The words come to me, “Wake up the churches.” False doctrines are being presented as of great importance and are being secretly introduced to undermine the faith of those who are not on guard. We have been cautious, and must continue to be, in regard to what we accept as truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 8)
The Word of the Lord has guided our steps since the passing of the time in 1844. We have searched the Scriptures; we have built solidly; and we have not had to tear up our foundations and put in new timbers. There is always safety in presenting a “Thus saith the Lord.” We must put our trust in a “Thus saith the Lord” and be well established in the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 9)
With this I send you a copy of what I have written to Elder Olsen. I verily believe the Lord has arranged matters so that Dr. Kress and his wife can come to America. Dr. James is to unite with Brother Semmens in Adelaide, and Dr. Richards and his wife take up work at Wahroonga. This we hope will be for the good of the work all round.
(22LtMs, Lt 24, 1907, 10)
Lt 26, 1907
Salisbury, W. D. St. Helena, California February 5, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 357; 2MCP 709; 8MR 1. + W. D. Salisbury
Warburton, Victoria, Australia Dear Brother:
I was much pleased to read the description, in a letter from Brother Irwin, of your new office location. I do not remember if I was ever at Warburton, but Brother Irwin’s description called to mind other places I had seen similar to it. I could not help thinking how much better for our office work is such a place than the suburb of North Fitzroy. The impurities and disease always to be found in cities, and especially in Melbourne, exposed the workers to many dangers health-wise.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 1)
The instruction is still being given, Move out of the cities. Establish your sanitariums, your schools, and offices away from the centers of population. Many now will plead to remain in the cities, but the time will come ere long when all who wish to avoid the sights and sounds of evil will move into the country; for wickedness and corruption will increase to such a degree that the very atmosphere of the cities will seem to be polluted.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 2)
We are very pleasantly situated at St. Helena, as you know. It is a haven of rest to me. We have had the most pleasant winter that I can ever remember having. The last month, gentle rains have been falling steadily, day after day and all through the night. I sit in my room with the windows open and much of the time do not care to kindle a fire.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 3)
The place where you now live is certainly preferable to the place you have left. If the health of your wife and yourself can be improved, it certainly will be in such a place as this. If others, who can be an influence for good in Warburton, can be induced to move there, it will be an advantage to them and to you. But do not crowd closely together; leave room for the cultivation of the soil. And plan for a school that can be made a success, as the Avondale school has become.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 4)
Do not crowd so much time into mechanical labor that the spiritual needs of the workers are neglected. The Lord wants the first place in our hearts. He will be your sanctification and your righteousness. Put aside all evil surmising and faultfinding. Keep the atmosphere sweet and pleasant by exercising the love of God toward one another.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 5)
I should be pleased to see Sister Salisbury at her light employment out-of-doors. She has now a favorable opportunity to take out-of-door exercise; but she must be careful not to overtax herself. I sometimes wish I could be with you. I should delight in the scenery around Warburton.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 6)
Read to the hands employed in the office verses sixteen to twenty-seven of the first chapter of James; for here is contained God’s great remedy for the diseases of body and soul. It is God’s health reform prescription. The whole chapter is a practical one. I advise all to follow the instruction; for if they take heed to it day by day, they will triumph at last with the overcomers.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 7)
The second chapter of James also presents these health principles. Let the lessons of these two chapters be brought into the daily life. Let Christ exercise His grace toward you in large measure, and you will certainly prosper. By your daily course of action, you can bring heaven very near, and make the office of publication a place where angels of God will delight to come. The principles of this teaching, brought into your character building, will bring you happiness of spirit and cause you to see the salvation of God. Let the heart be opened to these principles of righteousness, and you will obtain an experience that will make you a tower of strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 8)
Be of good courage in the Lord. Be not weary in well-doing; you will reap if you faint not. You will obtain, if you strive continually for the victory. Pray every day for the strength that comes from above, a strength greater than you possess.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 9)
Satan will seek for the mastery of your heart and mind, that he may mold them to do his will. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] Believe that you receive the things you ask for, “and ye shall have them.” [Mark 11:24.] Look hourly to Jesus. Lift up your heart in prayer to Him. Bring yourself into conformity to His will; be diligent, watchful, constant in prayer, and Satan will not choose your society.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 10)
Our churches are to come up on to higher ground. The Lord has given to every man his work. When brethren who act in official positions pursue a course of action that is not in accordance with the will of God, when they take upon themselves the work of judging their brethren and dictating what they shall or shall not do, God is dishonored. Such men are teaching their brethren to look to man instead of to God, and the work is brought to a low human level.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 11)
God alone is to be the guide of man’s conscience. The truth is to be preached wherever an opening is found for it. The Word of God is to be explained to those who know not the truth. This is the work of God’s ministers. They are not to teach men to look to them, or to seek to control the consciences of others. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” [James 1:5-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 12)
The office of publication at Warburton should be a training school. The workers should be treated with kindness. When the necessity arises for reproof, let the words spoken to correct the wrong be uttered in a spirit of love. Then let the reprover and the reproved kneel down together and ask God to forgive the erring. The impression thus made will be far more effective than a hasty rebuke would be. The Lord cares for the youth; they are His heritage. They are to become His trusted servants and are finally to enter the city of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 13)
It would be a fearful thing to miss the eternal life that is offered us in the city of God. The youth and those of mature years need to pray earnestly that God will teach them the fear of the Lord. Those who fear and love God will serve Him with all the heart and soul and strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 14)
My prayer is that the Lord will abide with you all and impress you with the fact that you are handling sacred things. He will give faith and courage and hope to all who seek to do His commandments. We are nearing the close of this earth’s history. Soon we shall have to meet the records of the deeds we have done, whether they have been good or whether they have been evil.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 15)
In much love to all connected with the work of the publishing house.
(22LtMs, Lt 26, 1907, 16)
Lt 28, 1907
Olsen, O. A. NP February 5, 1907 [typed] Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 42; HP 248. + Elder O. A. Olsen
Sydney, Australia Dear Brother:
I am so thankful that the Lord helps me to continue my work. My pen is in my hand most of my waking hours.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 1)
Praise the Lord, O my soul; for He is awaking His people in all parts of the world. It is wonderful, wonderful! When the churches stand in their lot and place to do God’s bidding, the Lord will work wondrously on human minds.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 2)
My mind and perceptions are still clear. That which the Lord presents to me in figure, He enables me to understand. I have a clear comprehension of what will be in the future. If as a people we make false moves now, it will be because of unbelief. Strange things are constantly taking place at Battle Creek. We must be on our guard; for we have a decided work to do.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 3)
I believe the way is prepared for Dr. Kress to come to America and spend some time in the work here. We greatly need such a man as Dr. Kress at our sanitarium in Washington, and we hope that he can get here in time to be present at the opening of this institution.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 4)
I trust, Brother Olsen, that Elder Starr and his wife will do strong evangelistic work in Sydney. That city, with its suburbs, should be faithfully worked. I believe that Brother and Sister Starr will be able to do good missionary work there. My prayer is that they and their associates may have the Holy Spirit with them to help them stand in their lot and place. O how I long to see the work accomplished that must be done for the enlightenment of the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 5)
A life of true piety is a life of constant usefulness. The work must be accomplished through faith and prayer. This is the subject that stirs my soul to its depths. The life of prayer is the strength of true godliness. Our faith must be revealed to the world as a living, acting faith, bringing in its train all the Christian graces. The great and glorious work committed to us in acting a part in the plan of salvation is wonderfully high and exalted. We cannot weigh its merits. We are to walk by faith; and as we strive to appreciate the possibilities, and realize the immensity of the plan of salvation, it is our privilege to pray with the apostle Paul, that we may be able to “comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of God, which passeth knowledge.” [Ephesians 3:18, 19.] Lift Him up, the Man of Calvary. Let the mind dwell upon the beauties of His character, until by beholding, you become changed into the same image. A life of prayer and faith will lead us to speak of His praise and tell of His power.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 6)
We must search the Word of God, making it a part of ourselves. A spirit of humility, the Spirit of Christ, will help us to know Him who has called us to glory and virtue.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 7)
If we brought the truth into the daily life as we should, we would advance higher and still higher, gaining a clearer and still clearer understanding of the revelation of God. We would lift Him up in songs of praise. Through the psalmist Christ declared, “In the midst of the congregation will I praise Thee.” [Psalm 22:22.] His voice was the keynote of the universe. His unconfined power, His unsearchable understanding, His wonderful sacrifice for the human race help us to comprehend the love of God. We need individually to have Christ abiding in the soul. We need to open our minds and hearts to the indwelling of the Spirit of truth. We need to appreciate our privileges as the possessors of sacred, elevating truth. Think of what this means to us—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ!
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 8)
Genuine conversion will unite our hearts in faith and love. It will teach us to hold fast our confidence in Him who is our only hope. By conversion we join our weakness to God’s strength, our ignorance to His wisdom, our unworthiness to His merits, our poverty to His boundless riches, our helplessness to His enduring might. We must have an ever-increasing strength, a growing faith. We must be strong in hope, and this we will be when we have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. I pray that we may all be growing Christians.
(22LtMs, Lt 28, 1907, 9)
Lt 30, 1907
Faulkhead, N. D. St. Helena, California February 5, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 35-37. + Mr. N. D. Faulkhead
Warburton, Victoria Dear Brother and Sister Faulkhead:
I was pleased to receive the information that you are again connected with the publishing work. May the Lord strengthen and encourage you day by day, is my prayer. Establish yourself in the strength of the Lord. You may put your trust in Him; for He will be your shield and buckler. We are nearing the close of this earth’s history. If I do not meet you again on this earth, I hope to meet you in the city of our God. I think we shall all rejoice when the conflict is over.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 1)
“In that day shall this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks. Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in. Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee, because he trusteth in Thee. Trust ye in the Lord forever; for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength.” [Isaiah 26:1-4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 2)
I have been strengthened to write many pages this winter, although I have suffered from three attacks of influenza, caused by my visits to Oakland and San Francisco, when I was obliged to expose myself to many changes in the weather.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 3)
I thank the Lord that I can still write. I am up and at work early in the morning, when the other members of my family are still sleeping. This morning I slept until four o’clock, which is an unusual thing for me. I have reason to be very grateful for the degree of health that I enjoy. I can go up and down stairs as readily as the young people, and my mind is clear. The Holy Spirit is bringing before my mind the things that our people need to understand at this time.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 4)
My voice is clear, and I still speak to the people assembled at our camp-meetings. After speaking several times at the recent camp-meeting in Oakland, no weakness followed the work; but instead, I felt my strength renewed, and rejoiced in health of mind and body and soul. After speaking for more than an hour one Sabbath, I invited those who desired to give themselves to the Lord to come forward, and then I united with the ministering brethren in prayer for these souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 5)
Quite a number have been added to the church through the efforts made at our camp-meetings. When I united with my brethren in this effort, I felt my strength renewed and my soul refreshed. I feel that it is my duty to praise and glorify God for His goodness. The Lord is my strength; He does not fail me. The Lord desires us to trust in Him every day.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 6)
The time has come when we must expect the Lord to do great things for us. Our efforts must not flag or weaken. We are to grow in grace and in a knowledge of the Lord. Before the work is closed up and the sealing of God’s people is finished, we shall have the outpouring of the Spirit of God. Angels from heaven will be in our midst. I want you and all your family to have a part in this closing work. The present is the fitting up time for heaven, when we each must walk in full obedience to all the commandments of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 7)
“The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose.” [Isaiah 35:1.] God’s people will be out of the cities then. “It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 8)
“Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong; fear not; behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; He will come and save you. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing; for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water; in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass, with reeds and rushes. And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called, The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those; the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon; it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there. And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” [Verses 2-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 9)
Here the future restoration of the people of God is brought to view for our encouragement. Lay up these words in your hearts. Accept Christ as your Saviour. Make Him your friend. Take the offered salvation, and place yourself wholly on the Lord’s side. Every member of your family should now consecrate himself to the service of God. Do not disband, but draw together. Depend on Christ alone for your salvation.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 10)
The Word of God is to be your lesson book. Study this Word, and it will become your strength, your fortress, your high tower, your consolation, your instruction, your guide, your sanctification. It is given for your constant growth in holiness. Peter calls the practical application of the Word “growth in grace.” [2 Peter 3:18.] Through the study of the Word the whole character may be changed. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things (old ambitions) have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” [2 Corinthians 5:17.] The fruits of the Spirit will be revealed in refinement and true godliness. Selfishness will be purged from the life. Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, and gentleness will be revealed in the life.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 11)
With Christian love to you all.
(22LtMs, Lt 30, 1907, 12)
Lt 32, 1907
Members of our Churches in Melbourne St. Helena, California February 5, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 233-238. + To the members of our churches in and about Melbourne:
The Lord desires you to receive the gospel and to practice it in your lives. He calls upon you to become humble seekers after Him, to receive the truth into good and honest hearts, and to reveal it in a decided change of character. Let every believer turn his attention toward seeking the Lord, that the church as a body may stand before God in true humility, the souls of the members cleansed from the defilement of sin.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 1)
My brethren and sisters, take hold of the work of perfecting Christian character. We are to live for the glory of God. There needs to be deep searching of heart. There is a great work to be done in cleansing the life by the truth of God’s Word. When this truth is received as it should be, the life will become a power for the glory of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 2)
Brethren and sisters, wake up, wake up! Proclaim the gospel in its simplicity. Listen as for your life to “what saith the Scriptures.” [Romans 4:3.] It is of supreme importance that you hear aright, that you purify your hearts from selfishness; for your eternal welfare is at stake. Are you seeking for the pearl of great price? Are you guarding yourselves against the deceptions of Satan, or do you stand ready to receive the suggestions of those who have departed from the faith and given heed to seducing spirits? Your salvation depends on your hearing aright and receiving with meekness the engrafted word. Will you be reconciled to God, and obey His commandments, that you may be sanctified—body, soul, and spirit? You have been bought with a price, by the death of the only begotten Son of God. Your heart beats on. On that pulsation depends your life. Its beating is independent of your will. You eat and sleep in careless indifference. But God’s guardian care over you is unceasing. He controls the ebb and flow of the vital current. Where is the gratitude that should rise from human lips for His preserving care? Where is the recognition of His unceasing watchfulness? Why does not thankfulness flow forth from the life in gratitude-offerings? Why do not springs of joy well up in the heart? Why are there not made pledges of most sacred consecration to do the will and way of the Lord? Where are the sensible thoughts that should fill each mind? Thorough conversion from selfishness should now be seen. We should put away all the plans which do not directly tend to advance the Lord’s plans, and which, if carried out, would retard the work that should be done for perishing souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 3)
If Satan can lull us to sleep at this time, when we have reached the crisis in this earth’s history, his end will be gained. The Lord calls upon our churches in Australia to make decided efforts for the right, lest the members fall into some deceptive snare of the enemy. Wake up, wake up! Put away your pride, and forsake your noncommittal position. Your testing time has come, and you must take sides with Christ or against Him. On which side are you standing, with the world or with Christ? Are you receiving the truth and preparing to speak a word in season to arrest the attention of the careless and the indifferent? God demands decided changes in your attitude. The truth you possess is the Word of the living God. What are you doing to meet the claims of the gospel? Is it your highest desire to learn the will of Him who gave Himself for you in self-denial and sacrifice, that you might become sons and daughters of God? Are you seeking to arouse souls to take an interest in eternal realities?
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 4)
Now is your time to learn how to work earnestly and intelligently for the salvation of those ready to perish. Make no compromise with the powers of darkness. Learn the claims of the law of God, and obey them heartily. Then your life will shine forth brightly amidst the spiritual darkness of the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 5)
Those who have been baptized and have taken their stand on the Lord’s side, separating from the enemy, have pledged themselves to the service of God. When you went down into the water, and were baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, these three great powers of heaven pledged themselves to give you power and grace to resist every temptation to dishonor God. When you rose from the water, you represented the resurrection of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 6)
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 7)
“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth, fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affections, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience; in which ye also walked sometime, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, evil communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him.” [Colossians 3:1-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 8)
Great responsibility comes to those who have been baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Strive to understand the meaning of the words, “Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Verse 3.] In the new life upon which you have entered, you are pledged to represent the life of Christ. Having put on the new man, “which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him,”“put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things, put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” [Verses 10, 12-15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 9)
The old sinful life is dead; the new life entered into with Christ by the pledge of baptism. Practice the virtues of the Saviour’s character. Let His wisdom “dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” [Verses 16, 17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 10)
These things are to be presented in the churches. Love, compassion, and tenderness are to be revealed amongst us. Put on, as the elect of God, mercy and kindness. The sins that were practiced before conversion are to be put off with the old man. With the new man Christ Jesus are to be put on “kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering.” [Verse 12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 11)
Those who have risen with Christ to walk in newness of life are the elect of God. They are holy unto the Lord and are acknowledged by Him as His beloved. As such, they are under solemn covenant to distinguish themselves by showing humility of mind. They are to clothe themselves in garments of righteousness. They are separate from the world, from its spirit, its practices; and they are to reveal that they are learning of Him who says, “I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] If they realize that they have died with Christ, if they keep their baptismal vow, the world will have no power to draw them aside to deny Christ. If they live the life of Christ in this world, they are partakers of the divine nature. Then, when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, they also will appear with Him in glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 12)
The people of God are to love as brethren and sisters. They are to be kind and courteous. They are to forgive one another as Christ has forgiven them. They are to follow His example in all things; for their life is hid with Him in God. My brethren and sisters, consider the possibilities of such a life. Christian unity is a grand and wonderful thing. Strive for it. “As He which that called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.... Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth, unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently, being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.” [1 Peter 1:15, 16, 22, 23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 13)
My brethren and sisters, will you not heed this appeal? As it is read to the members of the several churches by the one who shall stand in my stead, because I cannot be with you personally, let the believers respond. Bow before God, and make confession of your backsliding. In humility accept the words of Christ, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 14)
We need to work unitedly and with Christ, that we may not be drawn away from the faith. In the night season I was speaking these words to the churches of Melbourne, impressing upon them the need of preparing for the coming of Christ. We need to be very earnest now; for much time has been lost because our lives have not been hidden with Christ in God. As I presented these things, the deep movings of the Spirit of God were felt, and light came into the meeting. Humble confessions were made. Some who at first had seemed to be indifferent broke down and confessed their sins, and a reformation was begun.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 15)
I write these things to you because I believe it will be the means of helping you out of darkness into the light.
(22LtMs, Lt 32, 1907, 16)
Lt 34, 1907
Olsen, Sister [O. A.] St. Helena, California February 6, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 45. + Dear Sister Olsen:
I am writing a few lines to you in this mail, in the hope that you may receive the comfort and encouragement in your sickness that the Lord desires you to have. It will bring no brightness into your life to look continually to yourself. Look to your precious Saviour, who gave His life for you. Christ is not dead. He is not in Joseph’s tomb. He lives to make intercession for you. Look unto Him who is the author and finisher of your faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 1)
While your husband is faithfully seeking to act his part in the work, you may do your part by making the best of your condition of health. It would please the Lord if you would make an effort to forget yourself. Begin to thank the Lord for your home and your pleasant surroundings and the many temporal blessings He gives you. By returning thanks to the Lord for His goodness, you can do something for the One who has done everything for you. Contemplate the depths of the compassion that the Saviour felt for you. For you He gave His life, suffering the cruel death of the cross. Can you not praise the Lord for this? If you will hide your life in Christ, He will receive you.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 2)
If you will show that you have a working faith, by trying every day to exercise your will power, your faculties will gain strength. I know this by experience. I remember in my own case how my faculties recovered their pliability as I tried to exercise them. Will you try to move about and be cheerful in spirit. Put your trust in Jesus. Have faith in Him, and be pliant in His hands. You will receive great blessing by making a change in your habits. You need to act, to employ your mind, your hands, your feet, even if the effort costs you some pain.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 3)
I have had to do this; had I not I should have remained in a crippled condition. For eleven months after going to Australia, I suffered from inflammatory rheumatism. I was unable to lift my feet from the floor, without suffering great pain. My right arm, from the elbow down, was the only part of my body that was free from pain. When I attended meeting, I was borne in an armchair by two men, up the long flight of stairs that led to the meeting room, and was then lifted on to the platform. None of those who heard me speak knew how much the effort cost me, and I did not wish them to know. Now and then a spasm of pain would pass through my limbs, and I would have to repress a cry of suffering.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 4)
Some of the meetings that I attended at this time were from four to twelve miles from my home. On some of these occasions I was able to speak for an hour at a time. The fact that I could speak in public, in spite of my crippled condition, was an encouragement to my brethren and sisters.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 5)
Physicians said that I would never be able to walk again, and I had fears that my life was to be a perpetual conflict with suffering. But I would not give up; and the constant effort that I made, because of my faith that I could still be the Lord’s messenger to the people, accomplished a great change in my health.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 6)
This was not the only experience of suffering that I have had. Once, years before, one bone of my leg was split from the ankle to the knee. For a long time I could not use that limb at all, but went on crutches. Later, my foot was caught under the runner of a heavy lumber sleigh. I was to speak on New Year’s Day in Battle Creek, and at the appointed time the church was crowded with city people. I would not disappoint them. My husband brought a chair. On this I knelt and spoke for one hour. Then, I lost my senses with pain and was carried to the sofa. My suffering was intense. As gently as possible I was lifted into a sleigh and rode several miles to the house in which we were living, which was on the road to Goguac Lake.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 7)
I thought that I could attend to my ankle myself, but after I had suffered intensely for three days, Dr. Kellogg was called in. He said that I would never again use that foot in walking. But I was carefully tended at the sanitarium, and my foot was saved. I am so thankful that I am not a cripple.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 8)
During those eleven months of suffering in Australia, I would not give up. My right arm, from the elbow down, was whole, so that I could use the pen, and I wrote twenty-five hundred pages of letter paper for publication. During this period, I had the most terrible suffering of my life. My hips and my spine were in constant pain. I could not lie on my cot for more than two hours at a time, though I had rubber cushions under me. I would drag myself to a similar bed to change my position. Thus the nights passed.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 9)
But to all this there is a cheerful side. My Saviour seemed to be close beside me. I felt His sacred presence in my heart, and I was so thankful. These months of suffering were the happiest months of my life, because of the companionship of my Saviour. He was my hope and crown of rejoicing. I am so thankful that I had this experience, because I became better acquainted with my precious Lord and Saviour. His love filled my heart. All through my sickness, His love, His tender compassion, was my comfort.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 10)
Now, my sister, I have given you this rambling sketch of my sickness in order that you may be comforted in the Lord, and not cherish a spirit of repining and discouragement. Your husband is engaged in a good work. He is needed in the Australian field. He can be a blessing to many. My dear sister, if you will look away from yourself to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith and mine, you will be a happy woman. “Look unto Me,” says the Saviour. [Isaiah 45:22.] “Trust in Me; believe in Me; and do not weaken your physical and moral powers by looking at your own weakness.” Look unto Jesus, your pitying, loving Saviour. If you cast your helpless soul on Christ, He will bring joy and peace to your soul. He will be your crown of rejoicing, your exceeding great reward. Listen to the words I speak. Exercise yourself in every possible way. This is what I have had to do. Be cheerful and praise the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 11)
In love.
(22LtMs, Lt 34, 1907, 12)
Lt 36, 1907
Irwin, C. W. and others in the Avondale School St. Helena, California February 6, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 369-371. + To Prof. Irwin and others bearing responsibilities in the Avondale School Dear Fellow Workers:
We are much pleased to have the privilege of hearing how greatly the blessing of the Lord is resting upon the Avondale school. How pleased I should be to see the grounds as they are now, looking as I was instructed they might look under proper, intelligent cultivation.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 1)
In the darkest hour of the establishment of the Avondale school, when the outlook seemed the most discouraging, I was sitting in the hotel in Cooranbong, then used by our people, completely wearied out by the complaints made regarding the land. My heart was sick and sore. But suddenly a great peace came upon me. Angels seemed to be in the room, and then the words were spoken, “Look ye.” And I saw flourishing, cultivated land, bearing its treasure of fruit and root-crops. Many resources were spread out before me, and wherever my eye was directed, I saw prosperity.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 2)
I saw the school filled with promising students. All seemed to be helped, by the inspiration of well-organized efforts, to stand and work upon a high platform. There was so large a number of pleasant faces that I could not fail to understand that the light of the Lord’s countenance was lifted upon them.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 3)
A great light and peace came upon me. I was so blessed that I praised the Lord aloud, saying, “His word is fulfilled, ‘God will spread a table in the wilderness.’” [See Psalm 78:19.]
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 4)
I had this vision in that hotel, when the enemy was working decidedly to create forebodings and unbelief. Since then I have not had one hour of discouragement in regard to the Avondale school.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 5)
Early in the morning, at six o’clock, some one tapped at the door of my room, and inquired, “Will Sister White speak to the students this morning?” I said, “I will.” I found a goodly number assembled, and I told them what God had revealed to me in the night season. Brother Rousseau and all the rest present listened with intense interest. When I had finished speaking, Brother Rousseau said, “Sister White, a similar impression came to me; and now, for the first time, I confess my unbelief. If the Lord will pardon me, not another shade will I cast upon your soul to cause you sorrow. I will now look and work on the side of faith.”
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 6)
We felt the Holy Spirit’s power in that meeting. Since that time we have had unwavering faith regarding the school.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 7)
At this time, not a building was started. The ground was being prepared, but there were a few who did not have faith to go forward. But after this, all took hold to carry forward the work in faith and hope.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 8)
You may be assured that we rejoice that you have taken hold intelligently to act your part. Let the Lord work, and we shall see of His salvation. I wish this letter to go in this mail, so that you may know that I appreciate the work that has made such good advancement under faithful, painstaking effort.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 9)
We shall be glad to hear from you at any time. We shall try to respond, if it be only in a few words. Let us have reports from the school.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 10)
With much love to you all, teachers and students.
(22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, 11)
Lt 38, 1907
Hart, Russell St. Helena, California February 4, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in UL 49; CTr 32; 11MR 213-215. + Dear Brother Russell Hart:
I have read your letter of January 24, addressed to my son. I was glad to hear from you.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 1)
I have a great desire that you should see all things clearly, and walk and work with an eye single to the glory of God. In this life we are forming characters for the eternal life in the heavenly courts. I desire that you and your wife shall make straight paths for your feet. How thankful we all should be, that it is not yet too late for wrongs to be righted! It is our solemn duty to reveal love for God not only in our words, but in deed and in truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 2)
God calls at this time for skilful workers who will always be found on the side of the Chief Worker. We must have truth in the heart and love for Christ. “He that will come after Me,” He says, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] We have each an individual work to do in denying self and in working out our own salvation with fear and trembling.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 3)
Again and again, in visions of the night, I have seen you halting between two opinions. I have heard a voice of Authority speak your name, and say, “Russell, watch unto prayer. Fear no man. Let nothing interpose between your soul and God.”
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 4)
Every soul who places himself on the side of Christ will be tempted with all the power of Satan’s seductive influence. The grace of God can renew your heart, brace you against temptation, and give you earnest longings for the Spirit of God. It can make you clean in the blood of the Lamb. Your soul and the souls of your family are worth more than all the gains of this world. You need the spiritual life of the Word of God renewed in you day by day. You need to walk humbly with God. Do not, for Christ’s sake, make one false step.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 5)
I am seeking to do all in my power to follow out the directions of the Master. I am writing this by lamplight, at two o’clock in the morning. I am instructed to make earnest appeals to our churches, crying to them to awake from their slumber. Now is the time to do decided work for the preparation of the coming of the Lord; for every effort will be made to seduce the people of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 6)
A few mornings ago I rose early to write out important warnings just presented to me. I had seen one who was seeking to tear up the foundations of our faith. Then One of authority stood in our midst and said: The adversary of souls is working on the right hand and on the left with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish. Give the message to My people: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come; and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” [Isaiah 60:1.] Spreading out His arms, and then bringing His hands together, and clasping His fingers, He said, Unify, unify! Only those will stand who unify. Satan has come down with great power; for he knows that he has but a short time to work. He is working through deceptive theories in those who will not obey the truth in righteousness.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 7)
God will soon vindicate His justice before the universe. His justice requires that sin shall be punished; His mercy grants that sin shall be pardoned through repentance and confession. Pardon can come only through His only begotten Son; Christ alone can expiate sin—and then only when sin is repented of and forsaken. Man has severed his connection with God, and his soul has become palsied and strengthless by the deadly poison of sin. But there was a time when the proclamation sounded through the heavenly courts, I have found a ransom! A divine life is given as man’s ransom; One equal with the Father has become man’s substitute.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 8)
So ingenious are the plans that Satan lays to deceive and pervert, that the very blessings that come to us in the divine life may be turned into snares. By the same false reasoning by which he deceived Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, he seeks to turn the very blessings which God sends for our good into snares and a curse. He seeks to lead men to use God’s gifts as weapons against the Giver.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 9)
God gave His only begotten Son to the human race, that man might become a partaker of the divine nature by accepting the remedy for sin and allowing the divine grace of Christ to work in his life. The power of divinity working in humanity can bring man into right relation with God. Fallen man, by laying hold of the divine power brought within his reach, can become one with God. Everlasting life is the blessing that Christ came to give to the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 10)
“The angels that kept not their first estate,” God declares, “He hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.” [Jude 6.] The element of evil introduced into heaven by the first angels that fell will never again be allowed to enter heaven. But just so long as we live on this earth, we shall have to meet evil and battle against it. A battle is being fought with every soul. The soul who chooses his own will and way, and refuses to be converted to the Lord’s way, Satan will use in his service. The knowledge he has acquired in divine things is then united with the knowledge which Satan uses to strengthen his side of the controversy.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 11)
Human selfishness would monopolize the blessings of eternal life. The selfish Jewish nation sought to make the grace of God a benefit for the Jewish nation alone. A correcting influence must come from heaven to teach men that the Spirit of truth is to be a convincing power for all the world, a light to lighten every man that cometh into the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 12)
Again this selfish spirit in man seeks to number Israel, as if our strength were to be found in numbers. Christ came to the world to reveal God as more mighty than the angels that kept not their first estate. God has reserved them unto the darkness of the last great day, when every sin unrepented of, every evil work, will be uncovered, and every man shall receive according to his works.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 13)
Now, just now, is our day for repentance; now is our time to put away sin. He who was with the Father from the beginning, the only begotten Son of God, has paid the redemption price for the ransom of a sinful world. The value that Christ places on the human soul is unlimited. His infinite love embraces the whole human family. If they will receive Him, and practice the virtues of His character, men and women may become the sons and daughters of God. If they refuse to receive Christ, instead of becoming God’s heritage, they become Satan’s heritage.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 14)
“I am the light of the world,” Christ declared. [John 8:12.] When Moses saw the burning bush in Mount Horeb, and turned aside to see why the bush was not consumed, Christ revealed Himself to Moses and told him what he must do to deliver the children of Israel from Egypt. When Moses asked what he should say to the children of Israel, when they asked him by what authority he called them out of Egypt, God said, “Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I Am hath sent me unto you.” [Exodus 3:14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 15)
The Son of God came to break down every partition of nationality and position. The message of salvation was given for the whole world. All men are to acknowledge God as supreme.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 16)
“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” [Matthew 11:15.] “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] One equal with the Father came to redeem man. He was the only One who could encircle the world with the atmosphere of heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 17)
Grace abounds with Christ, and those who take their position on the side of the Redeemer become new creatures. In character they become one with God. Herein is love! God places the virtues of His character upon those who receive Him. Through His infinite sacrifice, He lifts the human race from its position of slavery to the will of Satan and makes men and women sons and daughters of the heavenly King. Only when we understand this great truth can we understand the words of Christ, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.” [Revelation 3:21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 18)
Christ came to suffer in man’s behalf; for Satan had made the boast that no one could withstand his devising and in this world live a spotless life. Clothed with human nature, the Redeemer subjected Himself to all the temptations with which human beings are beset; and He overcame on every point. The record of His life is given to the world, that no one need be in doubt as to the power of the grace of God. To every soul who strives for perfection of Christian character, this world becomes a battlefield on which is fought the controversy between good and evil. And every one who trusts in Christ will gain the victory.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 19)
Brother Hart, I want you to stand rooted and grounded in the truth. My interest in your father and mother was not a small one. In the past we have often been united in our labors, and I have a deep interest in you. I want to see you bearing an unwavering testimony for the truth. My position is unchanged.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 20)
According to the light given me, unless a decided stand is taken to safeguard the tabernacle in Battle Creek, theories will be presented in it that will dishonor God and His cause. I have been shown that if you understood the matter, you would be as decided as I am in the testimony you bear.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 21)
I must act in accordance with the light the Lord has given me; and I say to you that Elder A. T. Jones and Dr. Kellogg will make every effort possible to get possession of the tabernacle, in order that in it they may present their doctrines. We must not allow that house to be used for the promulgation of error . The tabernacle was built by the Seventh-day Adventist people. It is their property; and their loyal representatives should control it. On this question I will stand firm; and if you and others will take a decided stand with us, you will be doing that which God requires of you at this time.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 22)
We must make sure the control of the tabernacle; for powerful testimonies are to be borne in it in favor of the truth. This is the word of the Lord to you and to others. Elder A. T. Jones will work in every possible way to get possession of this house; and if he can do so, he will present in it theories that should never be heard. I know whereof I speak in this matter; and if you could have seen the end from the beginning, if you had believed the warnings that have been given, you would have moved understandingly.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 23)
I am glad that you wrote, so that I can express myself to you. I want you to understand that as long as the Lord gives me testimonies to bear, I will bear them, whether men will hear, or whether they will forbear. I have been clearly shown that we must safeguard the tabernacle.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 24)
The Lord has a message for the people in Battle Creek, and I may act a part in giving them this message. I am in my eightieth year, but my mind is clear. My faith is strong. May the Lord give you clear light, that you may not be numbered among those who have been seduced from the truth, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 38, 1907, 25)
Lt 40, 1907
Hayes, E. G. St. Helena, California February 5, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 398-399. + Elder E. G. Hayes Dear Brother:
I write to ask you to interest yourself in the school at Madison. Brethren Sutherland and Magan have worked diligently, far beyond their strength, to open up the school work in this place, which is of the Lord’s appointment. They have endeavored to establish a school that would fit young men and young women to act as missionaries in the southern field.
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 1)
At the present time they should have five thousand dollars to enable them to provide suitable facilities for the work; and still more should be provided, in order that a small sanitarium may be connected with the school.
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 2)
So far they have received very little help in this enterprise, compared with the needs and importance of the work. They have worked hard and have laid plans for such an education as is essential to prepare workers to be able to teach the ignorant and to explain the Scriptures. Besides the study of books, the students are taught to till the soil, to build houses, and to perform other useful labor.
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 3)
The location of the Madison school is excellent and possesses great advantages for the school work. But the leaders in this work are carrying too heavy a burden and should be relieved from the great anxiety that has rested upon them, because of a lack of means with which to do what must be done to provide suitable conditions for a successful school.
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 4)
Shall we allow these workers to be burdened beyond their strength, carrying forward almost alone a work in which they should receive the hearty co-operation of their brethren?
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 5)
I appeal to our brethren in South Dakota to help in this emergency, and make a liberal gift to the Madison school, that they may erect a chapel and school building. Such a building should have been provided for them long ago. Let us not leave these men to work under present disadvantages, when time is so precious and the need for trained workers in the South is so great.
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 6)
The work in the South has been sadly neglected. It is high time that our churches were awakened to their duty to this needy field. The light must shine forth amid the moral darkness of ignorance and superstition. The truth in its simplicity must be brought to those who are in ignorance.
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 7)
In the common schools some things are taught that are a hindrance rather than a blessing. We need schools where the Word of God is made the basis of education. The Madison Training School for teachers should have the hearty support of God’s people. Therefore I ask you and your associates on the conference committee to act liberally in helping our brethren in Madison in this important work.
(22LtMs, Lt 40, 1907, 8)
Lt 42, 1907
Wilcox, F. M. St. Helena, California February 8, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in OHC 36. + Elder F. M. Wilcox Dear Brother Wilcox:
I have just been reading a letter from you. I cannot advise you to leave the position you are now occupying, unless the Lord shall clearly indicate that it is your duty to do so. Hold the fort where you are, and let the truth triumph. You have been compelled to meet the opposition of some who have gone forward in a way of their own choosing, carrying out ideas and purposes of their own, which are in direct opposition to a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” Should you now be forced from your post of duty, the Lord who has repeatedly sent His messages to strengthen you would be dishonored.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 1)
I have had many messages given to me concerning the work in various places. In the early morning hours I arise and write out the things that the Lord has revealed to me. I have a message for you and for your associates in the work of the Boulder Sanitarium. I am bidden to say to you, Come into a close and sacred communion with the Lord Jesus Christ. In the sanitarium there are some who need the refining, sanctifying grace of God on the mind and character.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 2)
To some God will one day speak the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] These words of commendation will be spoken to those who endure test and trial, who submit to the refining process and are made white by the blood of the Lamb. If all those who profess to be sons and daughters of God would reveal in the words and in the life practice the light and grace of God, they would be companionable. They would learn of Him who has said: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 3)
Here is Christ’s method of finding rest. Shall we not all open the heart and invite the Saviour to be our guest? Unless our characters are formed after the divine similitude, we shall not, in this evil and wicked generation, be found bearing the signature of heaven. It means much to form characters after the similitude of Christ’s character. If, with defective characters, we were admitted to heaven, we would spoil its harmony. I beseech of every physician and every helper in the institution in Boulder to seek earnestly to be fashioned after the likeness of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 4)
In this world we are to learn the science of perfecting Christian character. This will be learned best by a close connection with the Great Teacher. In wearing His yoke, we shall know what it means to overcome defects in character. “Learn of Me,” He says. [Verse 29.] We are to learn the meaning of true reform, and then to live in harmony with the principles of this reform.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 5)
Let all remember that others, as well as themselves, are the Lord’s purchased possession. Care should be taken not to give occasion for a disaffection in the minds of fellow laborers in the work of the Lord. Much friction might be avoided were there a more earnest effort to learn the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Let every worker treat every other worker with due respect and Christian courtesy.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 6)
By the manifestation of patience, you may sometimes reveal that you have responded to the invitation of the Saviour and have found rest in Him. When unkind words are spoken, silence is often the best rebuke that can be given. Kind words, kind deeds, and a tender spirit are the ornaments of a Christian.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 7)
A manifestation of the spirit of true courtesy will be a testimony to those who patronize the sanitarium that the workers are not counterfeit Christians, but that they are following an infallible Guide. Christ is our Example, He who laid off His royal crown in heaven, and clothed Himself with humanity, that men and women might be partakers of the divine nature, and escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we are to behold the perfection of His character.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 8)
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 9)
Christ has given us His Word, that men and women may be thoroughly furnished with a remedy for all spiritual diseases. The Word is a test of human character. It points out the disease and prescribes the remedy. In the Word is a prescription for every spiritual ailment. The plain commands of God will exert a healthful influence upon the mind and upon the whole body. If taken in faith and faithfully practiced, its remedies are infallible.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 10)
If the workers in the sanitarium will practice the principles of the Word, a strong spiritual atmosphere will pervade the institution. Angels of God will be present. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation. As it exerts its power of saving grace upon physicians and nurses, its influence will extend to the patients. If we are determined to do the will of God, His will becomes a living, working agency in our experience. We shall never entertain in thought or words of action that which the Lord forbids.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 11)
The instruction to be found in the Word of God is comprehensive. It is adapted to every circumstance and every condition in life. Especially is it adapted to the need of the workers in [the] sanitarium; for it is inspired by the greatest Physician that ever lived. A deep study of God’s Word is essential to every Christian physician and nurse.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 12)
A timely word of encouragement will often do much to revive the heart of one who is discouraged. Remember that you are laborers together with God. When you are in perplexity, seek unerring counsel from the words of inspiration. This means that you are to seek the Lord for guidance as did Daniel, of whom we read that “he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.” [Daniel 6:10.] The blessed words of inspiration are not appreciated as they should be. They make manifest the wisdom of God, applied to human affairs. Every true reform is based upon a “Thus saith the Lord.”
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 13)
“And behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted Him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And He said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 14)
“But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor?
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 15)
“And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow, when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him: and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that had mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go thou and do likewise.” [Luke 10:25-37.]
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 16)
“I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? ... If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?” [Luke 11:9-11, 13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 17)
Having ascertained from the Word what is the will of God, go forward with fearlessness and courage. But you may be assured that some will always oppose the right. Selfish interest will clash with the close, self-denying principles of the Word. You cannot carry out the pure, uplifting principles of true reform without there being a revelation of opposing interests. The law of Jehovah will ever be opposed by selfish men.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 18)
But I am to say to you, The Son of God was manifested that He might establish true reforms, and that He might draw all men unto Him. He tells us that “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” [2 Timothy 3:12.] The Son of God calls Himself the Son of Man. He came to draw all men unto Him, but some will not be drawn. He says, “I came not to send peace on earth, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.]
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 19)
I am instructed to say to you have been striving to carry forward a work in Boulder, in harmony with the Word of God: You will not find the way smooth before you. But ever bear in mind the light that the Lord has sent. And let every one connected with the sanitarium put away all sensitiveness and jealousy. Die to self, and let Christ be your strength. Let all sanctify themselves unto God, and cleave, in humility of mind, to correct principles.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 20)
The Lord has said to those who are carrying out the great gospel commission: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 21)
Ever remember that you are amenable to God in the formation of your character. Nothing is to be undertaken upon which you cannot ask the blessing of God. He is the eternal and the universal Guardian. Truth is to be maintained in its purity. We cannot engage in any business enterprise that will trample upon the rights of God’s heritage, or that will in any way work injustice to others. If, in carrying forward His work, others treat us unjustly, we need not feel that we are personally injured.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 22)
God will in righteousness vindicate His own cause. He discerns every motive that prompts to action. He sees, in every devising, the end from the beginning. He recognizes the motives in every action, and He will send light and knowledge to those who endeavor to follow out His counsel. No man can trample upon the rights of God’s workmen without smiting the hand of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 23)
Let all the workers in the Boulder Sanitarium be of good courage. Light has come from heaven to distinguish between those who heed the instruction of God and those who discard its principles. God has spoken, but some have said by their actions, “Who is the Lord, that I should serve Him?” [See Exodus 5:2.] The Lord may permit men to develop the spirit that is in them, but think not that the will and purposes of unsanctified men will bear away the victory.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 24)
Men are now taking sides. Those who are serving the Lord will follow the principles of justice to all men. God will vindicate the faithful endeavors of those in the Boulder Sanitarium, an institution that He has signified should be conducted in the strictest integrity. There is true success in practicing the high standard of the commandments of God and recognizing their moral obligation. God will bless all who will carry out the principles upon which our sanitariums were established. Let there be not a trace of conniving at evil or of dishonesty.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 25)
The Lord is calling His professed commandment-keeping people to come up on a high platform of righteous judgment. “For God and His truth,” should be the motto of the workers in every sanitarium. Efforts have been made to supplant the institution that the Lord has established. Men who have refused the counsel of the Lord have brought perplexity and trial to God’s workers. Yet you are not to enter into controversy. Let nothing be said, except in vindication of truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 26)
Those who have united with Dr. Place to extol and sustain him will have to answer to God for their course and for its evil results.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 27)
Trust in the Lord, even though you have severe trials. Do not create trials for yourself. The precepts of Jesus are the only safe rules of conduct. Make every detail of business the subject of earnest prayer. Seek the Lord with sanctified purpose. Seek for that guidance and strength which you feel that your circumstances demand. There is nothing that is of interest to those who will do the will of the Lord, but what is precious in His sight.
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 28)
Let physicians and nurses, and all helpers, make a covenant with God by sacrifice at every step. If all will bring all the principles of true religion into their service for God, they will some day hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 42, 1907, 29)
Lt 44, 1907
Sheafe, L. C. St. Helena, California February 4, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 13MR 159-165. + Elder L. C. Sheafe Dear Brother:
I am writing to you in the early morning. In the night season I have had representations of your case and have been conversing with some of the brethren in Washington, D.C., in regard to the work to be done in that city.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 1)
Elder Sheafe, Satan has been at work upon your mind, and for a long time you have been entertaining his suggestions. Through his temptations you have been led to take a course of action in your home that has been a great evil. It has injured you and the cause of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 2)
The Lord has given you tact and skill in knowledge to proclaim the last message of mercy to our world, that you might become a great blessing in Washington, D.C.; but you have entered into temptation. Will you let Satan have the victory? You have lost your bearings, concerning many things, and cherish some views that bear the same mark of spiritual disease that has led to the disaffection at Battle Creek. And the enemy is working through you to spoil the flock of God. The Lord bids me say to you, Stop right where you are.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 3)
You are severely tempted and for some time have been pursuing a course that will impair your future usefulness. The Lord has given you freedom of speech, that you might present the truth before the people. But you have been losing the grace of God out of your heart. You have taken a draught of a mixture prepared by the tempter.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 4)
I do not want you to destroy yourself. Battle Creek is not the place where you will get light. The work being done there does not bear the signature of the Divine. Another spirit has come in and taken possession of human minds. The Lord God of Israel will surely punish the men who have set at naught His counsel. The Word of God tells us that just such things would come in these last days.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 5)
The message of mercy that was brought from the Father was meant for the ears of the whole world. Christ came to unveil the character of God. He did not select a part of the human race and place a limited value on them. His grace is for all, and the estimate He places on the human soul is infinite. His power also is unlimited by right of His position with the Father. Had it not been for the great sacrifice He made in giving His life for mankind, the human race would have perished in their sin. But after the fall of Satan and man, Christ stepped in to give us another trial. He alone could give man another opportunity to recover himself; for only He who was equal with God could carry out the great scheme of redemption. When Christ has given such an example of comprehensive love, should an exclusive spirit be cherished by those who profess His name? Christ says, “I am the light of the world.” [John 8:12.] He is the great fountain of life and salvation.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 6)
The Lord has greatly blessed you, Brother Sheafe, and He desires that you shall no longer walk in the path you have been treading, but step back into the path that Christ has formed by His own example. Christ is the Bright and Morning Star. He reflects His light to every class of people in the world. When you take any other position than that which Christ took, you are certainly walking in a false path.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 7)
O what a God we have that He should “so love the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Collecting all the riches of His grace, all the resources of His infinite love, He has placed them at the disposal of the human family, that as many as receive Him might have power to become the sons of God. All who believe in His name may become one with Christ in God.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 8)
My brother, you have let spiritual pride come into your heart. You have given the tempter an open door through which he could enter and work upon your mind. Will you give him the right of way, as many are doing in Battle Creek? Before you go any further in this path you have entered upon, stop and consider the results. Make a halt right where you are. If you do not, you will apostatize from the truth. You and your wife must be converted, or you will, in the madness of your deceived souls, take some rash and dreadful step. Watch, pray, repent, and be converted.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 9)
In His mercy and grace God desires to let you see your wrongs, that you may repent and become reconverted. You may become kind and thoughtful and reveal to others that your hearts are made white in the blood of the Lamb. Let not another blot of sin come upon your soul. The Father calls you to live the life of Christ, to put away the passionate temper, and henceforth to walk in meekness and lowliness of mind. He desires that you and Sister Sheafe shall become a son and daughter in the heavenly family.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 10)
Your heavenly Father, the God of heaven and earth, gave everything into the hands of Christ for those who will give up their hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil and become the children of light. He did all this to make you and your wife patient and kind to one another. Will you not be convinced of your wrong and be renewed in the spirit of your mind?
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 11)
The message of mercy from the Father was given to the world through Christ. An atmosphere of grace and peace always surrounded His life. In His life He gave evidence of what every one who believes in His name may give evidence, that He possessed the gift of thoughtful kindness. Christ’s followers may reveal the same characteristics in their associations with one another. All who profess the name of Christ must represent His kindness in their lives. Never in speech or action should they manifest an opposite spirit. Whosoever will may surround his soul with an atmosphere of kindness and patience and love; and these graces represent eternal life to the receiver. Will you now be reconverted. Your present good and your eternal welfare demand that you repent and be converted. Humble your heart before God, and become one of His little children.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 12)
My brother, look unto Jesus. You need not look to any human agency for the supply of grace that you can find in its perfection in Christ. The Saviour took human nature upon Him and came to this earth; and in His humanity, He was tempted in all points like as human beings are tempted. Thus was removed every excuse for the plea that Christ does not know what temptations come to man. The Saviour came to succor all who are tempted.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 13)
Through His sacrifice, Christ has made provision for you, that you may become sweet in disposition, meek and lowly of heart. My brother, when you are sorely provoked to say or do things that make you a weak man, think of the promise, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in My throne.” [Revelation 3:21.] “He that overcometh, and keepeth My works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations.” [Revelation 2:26.]
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 14)
When men or women are under the temptations of Satan, let them look constantly to Jesus for aid, and not utter words of passion that dishonor Christ. If the husband speaks unkindly, let the wife not speak a word in response; for at such times silence is eloquence. This is the best way to meet the words that are prompted by the tempter. Let husband and wife treat each other kindly under all circumstances. Then the children will learn from them lessons of forbearance. Never, never give your children an education in faultfinding. Set them an example that will help them to prepare for the future immortal life.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 15)
Let not your record be marred by one false word or act. Let it be said of you, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Keep the thought “together with God” ever in mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 16)
A minister of Jesus Christ should never forget his calling. He should never forget that he is to minister in word and doctrine. He should have a clean, pure spirit. He should possess his soul in patience and ever remember that the heavenly universe is looking with deepest interest upon the one who is appointed to be a mouthpiece for God. Will you humble your heart now before God? Will you fall upon the Rock, and be broken?
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 17)
“The Word became flesh, and dwelt among us.” [John 1:14.] This was done to convince us that there is no love in the universe but God’s, and that the happiness of man consists in loving Him, doing His will, and carrying out His precepts. My brother, the Lord desires you to guard against any doctrines that would lead to dissension and strife. You are charged to hold the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. There is need of much prayer. The warning is given us in the Word, “Some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] Brother Sheafe, is not this warning fulfilled in what we see in Battle Creek?
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 18)
“Be careful for nothing; but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things which ye have both learned and received, and heard, and seen in me, do; and the God of peace be with you.” [Philippians 4:6-9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 19)
Let no man unsettle your faith. The Lord is greatly dishonored by those in Battle Creek who are turning away from the truth. I am sorry for them and sorry that you are becoming confused by the doctrines that are being presented to lead souls from the true faith. May the Lord help you not to spoil your record. In the name of the Lord I say to you: Humble your heart before God, and practice the life of Christ, else you will lose your soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 20)
My brother, is it a strange thing that the Word of God should be fulfilled? This Word has declared just what will be; and now, when this comes to pass, should we act as a church surprised? May the Lord help you to be guarded. Watch unto prayer, and guard your spirit; for God cannot be with you, to help you in overcoming, when you do not seek to overcome, but act as the evil one desires you to act. We are now preparing for the future, immortal life. Do not, I beg of you, turn aside to strange doctrines.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 21)
In the visions of the night I am charged by the Lord to warn you against this. I want you to be a happy man in this life, a representation of what a minister of Christ should be. Work diligently to make your calling and election sure. Bring peace into your heart, even the peace of Christ. Learn of Christ, and thus become fitted to unite with the family of the redeemed. Our time here is short. Prepare, prepare to meet thy God.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 22)
“If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] “So shall he be My disciple.” [See John 15:8.] The Lord Jesus is to be your pattern. No man is to please himself. I want you to know what the grace of Christ can do for you. I want you to speak sound words, with true, eloquent utterance. Serve the Lord Jesus Christ with the whole heart. God expects you to purify your soul from all defilement. True conversion means a radical change of heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 23)
The richest blessings are for you and all others who preach the Word. But we must ever remember the words, “Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:3.] The Saviour promises to satisfy the most urgent needs of the soul. He promises: “The water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water, springing up into everlasting life.” [John 4:14.] You need to be converted every day in order to be a vessel unto honor, one who can teach others. Do not make a mistake. Your soul is precious, and Christ will save you, if you will be saved by purifying your soul through obedience to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 44, 1907, 24)
Lt 46, 1907
Daniells, A. G. St. Helena, California January 25, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Elder A. G. Daniells Dear Brother Daniells:
As many as three times of late I have begun a letter to you, but before it was finished the rush of other business has come in, and your letter has been laid aside.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 1)
I have no words of discouragement to write, but I would encourage you that at this time we should be very earnest in seeking the Lord. We must have no strange gods among us.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 2)
We are engaged in a sacred work; and if we make our petitions to God daily, as did the prophet Daniel, we shall receive the assurance and power that were given to Daniel. Angels of God communicated to the prophet strength and wisdom. When, because of his faithfulness, he was cast into the den of lions, these heavenly messengers exercised a restraining influence over the ferocious beasts.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 3)
We greatly need the power of God. If we humble ourselves under His mighty hand, we shall realize the presence of the Lord of hosts. We need less of human devising and much more of the divine counsel. In the name of the Lord, we are to come to Him as His little children. “Ask, and ye shall receive,” He says, “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] May we not cultivate the art of taking God at His word? Faith, living, active faith will do wonderful things.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 4)
In the epistle of Jude, the works of evildoers are portrayed, just as they are manifested in this period of earth’s history. We must make the Lord our helper. He will be our sufficiency, and will give us success, if we will trust in Him. After pointing out the character of the ungodly men and the “mockers” who shall be in the “last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts,” the subject changes, and words of encouragement are spoken to God’s faithful people:
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 5)
“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 6)
“Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory, and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.” [Verses 18, 20-25.]
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 7)
From the representations that are given to me, I see that we are not, as a people, reaching the high standard that will give us the increase of faith and confidence and the cheerful assurance that it is our privilege to possess.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 8)
Let our brethren who are bearing responsibilities in the Lord’s work meet together for seasons of seeking the Lord. Let them rejoice together in the Lord who hears the prayers of His people. We are to talk faith, walk by faith, and live by faith. This is our duty and our great privilege. Let us pray without ceasing for a free anointing for the great and sacred work of God. It is time for the church to heed the call: “Arise and shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” [Isaiah 60:1.]
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 9)
Brother Daniells, I have a request to make of you: That from the gifts and offerings that are received from our people, you shall appropriate to the Madison school a liberal portion. This should have been done long ago. We should help Brethren Sutherland and Magan and their associates who have worked beyond their strength, under great disadvantages. Will you not seek to understand the situation and to see that justice and mercy are not forgotten in the distribution of funds? The brethren in Madison are laborers together with God, and He is not pleased that so little has been done in their behalf by some of their brethren.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 10)
I do not wish the brethren at Madison to know that I have written to you in their behalf. When you give them the portion of means that should go to them, let it go as a token of your own wisdom and discernment.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 11)
In the past, Brethren Sutherland and Magan have made mistakes. They were united with Dr. Kellogg; but when the testimonies came to them in Washington, urging them to break loose from the influences at Battle Creek, they heeded the warnings. They made hearty confessions at that time and tried their best to rectify their mistakes.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 12)
As I have often pointed out, the South is one of the most needy fields in the world, and the outlook there has often seemed discouraging. In words and in works we should all manifest a desired interest in encouraging our brethren who are laboring in that difficult field. Whatever you can do to help them in their necessities will meet the approval of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 46, 1907, 13)
Lt 48, 1907
California Conference Committee & the Brn-Srs. in Berkeley & Oakland St. Helena, California February 1, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 690-691; 3SM 408; 1MR 263. +
To the California Conference Committee and the brethren and Sisters in Berkeley and Oakland, Dear Brethren and Sisters:
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 1)
For many years the importance of the work in Oakland and the surrounding cities has been presented to me. Before I left this country to go to Australia, I was instructed that special efforts should be put forth to proclaim the truth in the cities around the Bay.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 2)
When I first learned that Brother and Sister Rice were planning to take up the work in Berkeley, I felt thankful. I encouraged them to work faithfully, believing that the Lord would bless their efforts; for it was in harmony with the instruction I had received that many laborers should be set to work in Oakland and the outlying districts.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 3)
I was therefore surprised and deeply pained when, at the camp-meeting in San Jose in July 1905, one of my brethren came to me and stated that, in his opinion, it would be for the best interests of the work if Brother and Sister Rice should be moved from Berkeley and set to work in another place. He thought that the influence of Brother and Sister Rice had not been of the best character and stated that there were serious charges preferred against them by some of the members of the Berkeley church. He desired me to use my influence to persuade Brother and Sister Rice to locate in Santa Cruz.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 4)
I knew that Brother and Sister Rice were not free from faults, but that they were striving to know and to do the Master’s will, and that they had talents that fitted them to reach men and women in the higher walks of life, and that through their labors many might become interested in the truth. I knew that a move would deprive an important field, of labor that was much needed, and also that a move would mean much to them personally; for they had just gotten fairly settled in a suitable home. I did not feel free to lend my influence to have them moved. Their removal to another field under such circumstances would cause an unfavorable impression to be left on the minds of those who, through their efforts, had newly accepted the faith. Moreover, if it were indeed true that they possessed objectionable traits of character, the case would not be made better by sending them to another field of labor; for they would carry with them their objectionable characteristics and methods.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 5)
The following night the case was clearly opened before me. I saw that some of the members of the Berkeley church were confused, and that they were manifesting a spirit of criticism that was not right. Their tongues needed to be sanctified, that they might speak the truth in righteousness. Those who were so severely criticizing, and finding fault with Brother and Sister Rice, were doing a work that would not stand the test of the judgment.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 6)
I saw that Brother and Sister Rice were laboring for a class that but few were trying to reach. They had worked earnestly and diligently in search of the lost sheep, ever standing ready to respond to the calls of those who were desirous of learning the truth. Through their labors some had been converted, and I was instructed that if all the members of the Berkeley church had manifested a Christlike spirit, and co-operated with the efforts of Brother Rice and his wife, many more might have been brought to a saving knowledge of the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 7)
But envy and jealousy and evil surmising had well nigh destroyed the healthy influence of the church in Berkeley. Unruly spirits, unconverted minds and hearts had wrought mischief, for which there should be sincere repentance. If those who were out of harmony had possessed greater spiritual discernment, they would have seen matters more clearly.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 8)
In my talks at the San Jose meeting, I presented the principles that should govern God’s workers in their relations one to another. Had these principles been followed, peace would have come to the church and strength and efficiency to the Lord’s workers. Here are some of the thoughts presented Sunday afternoon, July 2, 1905:
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 9)
“A true belief of the work of the Father and of the Son in our behalf is worth everything to us. It is a pledge of our salvation. The wounded hands, the pierced side of our Lord stand as a revelation of infinite love—love expressed for you and for me.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 10)
“In view of a manifestation of such love, what is our duty?—We are to seek for that spirit of love expressed in the words: ‘Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek Me; and as I said unto the Jews, so now I say to you, Whither I go, ye can not come, so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another: as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.’ [John 13:33, 34.]
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 11)
“Why was this a new commandment? Christ in His death on the cross was about to give a manifestation of His love—such an expression of love as had never before been heard of. ‘A new commandment’—it is to love one another ‘as I have loved you.’ [Verse 34.]
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 12)
“With many it has become a habit to seek for something to condemn in someone else. What God wants you and me to do is to take care of number one. And when you get in the right relation to God, when you see the need of that faith and love that is expressed in this ‘new commandment,’ and illustrated by the death of Christ, there will be a great change in the character of believers. There will be a great awakening among God’s people. Among officers in the church and in the conference, there will be a manifestation of the love of Christ. They will study to know the meaning of the new commandment.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 13)
“Every member of the church has his appointed work; every one is to act his part. All are to unite in carrying the message to those who have not heard it. Every one is to join in giving the invitation, Come. And those who hear the call and respond to it are to carry the message further still, until there shall be no place where the invitation is not heard and the Word of God given. Christ’s work for the world is to be our work. We are to carry the light into the highways and byways, nigh and afar off until the gospel of the kingdom has encircled the globe.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 14)
“‘As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.’ [Verse 34.] Christ’s love for us led Him to Calvary. Laying off His royal robe, stepping down from the high command of the angels in heaven, He came as a lowly babe, born and laid in a manger in Bethlehem. He might have brought with Him to this world legions of angels. But no! He came to fill the humblest position, to bear all the temptations to which man is subject. Thus He gave to the world an example of what humanity is to become. He was tempted just as strongly as any member of the human family can be tempted. Through His ministration He has made it possible for us to become partakers of the divine nature.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 15)
“‘As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.’ [Verse 34.] Then what is our work? It is to seek earnestly for that love that Christ will give to each of His followers in they will eat of His flesh and drink of His blood. This means to receive His words and to open the Word of life to others....
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 16)
“If each one of us will humble his own heart, take heed to his own individual course of action, and in word and spirit take the Word of God just as it reads, we will see one of the greatest reformations passing through our churches that we have ever seen. God calls upon us to take hold upon Him and to work intelligently. In many of our churches true missionary work is a dead letter....
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 17)
“When you feel discouraged and disconsolate, do not run to your neighbor with your troubles. This is not right—man leaning upon finite man, or man dealing with man as though he were appointed to do a work of lifting up or casting down his brethren, as he thinks best. God calls for everyone to stand in a sanctified knowledge that Christ is abiding in him, and he in Christ. Then when he is in trouble, he will come right to the Word, and see what it says. ‘I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you,’ is the promise. [John 14:18.] ...
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 18)
“As you follow in the line of duty, as you seek to save souls ready to perish, as you go out in the different towns and localities around here, as you labor in Oakland and other cities, teaching others to serve God, and to glorify Him, the light of heaven will come into your souls. Christ will stand close beside you. He will impress and convince the minds of those for whom you labor....
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 19)
“When we associate together, let us not pick flaws in one another. The Lord is grieved when we do this; for we reveal that Satan is at work among us, to make the soul weak and sick spiritually. Let us press together in the work, showing sympathy and love for one another. Instead of drawing apart and criticizing the work of one another, let us encourage one another and labor for each other’s conversion. Let us pray with one another and speak kind, helpful words that will help them to come into right relation with God. May the Lord let His Holy Spirit rest upon each one of us, that we may see of His salvation as we have not yet seen it....
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 20)
“What is soon coming upon us? Seducing spirits are coming in. If God has ever spoken by me, you will before long hear of a wonderful science—a science of the devil. Its aim will be to make of no account God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. Some will exalt this false science, and through them Satan will seek to make void the law of God. Great miracles will be performed in the sight of men in behalf of this wonderful science.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 21)
“But in the midst of these great deceptions, it is our privilege to hide ourselves in Jesus Christ. It is possible for us to seek and to obtain salvation. But God calls us now to take off from His workers every domineering hand; for God forbids this. Let each understand his individual duty before God and do that duty humbly. He is not to consider himself a master, with controlling power to exercise upon his brethren. The Word of God is to be taught and practiced.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 22)
“God is our Commander and our Ruler. We have a Saviour, and we are not to exchange His Word for the word of any man. God wants us to come into right relation with Him. He wants every voice to be sanctified. He wants all there is of us, soul, body, and spirit, to be fully sanctified to do the will of God. It is time that we began to know that we are fastened to the Lord Jesus Christ by a living, working faith; it is time for us to take hold of the Spirit of God and to let our works show that we are under His control. Let us believe in Him, and trust in Him, and we shall see His mighty power working among us.”
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 23)
*****
In the Word of God there are definite rules laid down to guide us in dealing with the erring. Unless these rules are followed, confusion will result. The Bible rule should be strictly obeyed. Christ has outlined our course of action; let us follow it to the letter:
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 24)
“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” [Matthew 18:15-17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 25)
“One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.” [Deuteronomy 19:15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 26)
“Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.” [1 Timothy 5:19.]
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 27)
The heart of Christ yearns for the salvation of men, and He is jealous for the influence of those who are working with Him for their fellow men. Therefore those who think that the appointed workers are in error should have gone to them kindly and talked the matter over with them privately. But, instead of this course being followed faithfully, reports have been circulated by unsanctified lips, and these reports have become greatly exaggerated. Had some of the members of the Berkeley church humbled their hearts before God, there would have been a far different state of things, and the Lord would have worked to add souls to the church. But the Spirit of the Lord was grieved by the jealousy, the evil surmising, and the evil speaking. Words were spoken that never would have found utterance, if those who spoke them had been under the influence of the Holy Spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 28)
In church membership, there are various minds and various experiences; and unless these minds are brought under the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, hereditary and cultivated tendencies will be manifest in evil surmising and evil speaking. Unsanctified tongues will create a mountain of difficulty. But if all will bring themselves under the rule of the law of God, there will be an altogether different showing. If all will humble their hearts before God, and seek diligently to cleanse from their characters everything that Christ condemns, there will be seen the manifestation of the spirit of light and liberty.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 29)
Some have felt troubled because Brother and Sister Rice have each been drawing wages from the conference. But it is in harmony with the instruction that has often been given to me, that women who labor with their husbands in gospel work should be paid for their services.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 30)
After returning from their work in the Islands, Brother and Sister Rice purchased a small home for themselves. While he was working in the office, his wife was laboring from house to house in ministerial lines. She found access to many homes of the higher classes, and they thought that it would be for the glory of God if they might have a home to which they could invite those who were interested in the truth, and where they might entertain our ministering brethren who visited the churches near them. So they worked early and late to complete an addition to the house they had purchased.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 31)
Those who thought that Brother and Sister Rice should be uprooted from the place in which there was such great need of labor, and where they had just begun a good work, did not fully consider whether they themselves would desire to be moved in such a way. Brother Rice and his wife did not feel free to leave their field of labor, while on every side doors were opened, and calls were being made by those who desired to have the Scriptures opened to them. Had they heeded the suggestion that [they] should leave Oakland and go to Santa Cruz, I was prepared to tell them that they were making a wrong move. The enemy would have counted it a victory, if their work in Oakland and Berkeley had been uprooted, and the impression become current that they were not qualified for the sacred work in which they were engaged.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 32)
In giving them souls for their hire, the Lord has manifested His acceptance of their labors. They are God’s property. For mistakes in the past, they have been reproved and corrected, because the Lord loves them, and desires them to be saved, and to have a part in His work. When any one confesses his sin, the Lord pardons and cleanses. “For whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?” [Hebrews 12:6, 7.] How glad we should be that our mistakes are not incurable!
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 33)
In our dealings with one another, we all need the divine tenderness of Christ. Those who manifest a desire to labor for souls should be strengthened and encouraged. If they make mistakes, let their brethren labor with them kindly, earnestly, to help them to see the will of God. There is need that each examine carefully his own frailties, before condemning others.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 34)
In our cities there is a great work to be done. This work must be carried forward intelligently and solidly. The Lord will co-operate with all who will be worked by the Holy Spirit and who will seek for the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Let no one praise his own works, but let him draw attention to the sanctifying grace of God as revealed in His Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 35)
God’s work calls for many who are now resting on their lees. Many will engage in house-to-house labor, after they have sought the Lord with heart and soul. A life of dependence on Christ will fit us to promote His cause and glory on earth. There are many fields where labor must be begun.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 36)
Often in the visions of the night, I find myself entreating men and women to be converted, and I awake actuated by the spirit of urgency that has seemed to me a living reality.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 37)
The officers of our churches should be men who possess truth in the soul—humble, praying men—men who will be a living example of faith and piety. God does not estimate men by position or rank or wealth or profound learning, but by their humility of heart and their willingness to learn in the school of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 38)
Those who are truly consecrated to the work of soul-saving will not cease from their evangelizing efforts. Men in the humble walks of life are to be encouraged to take up the work of God. As they labor, they will gain a precious experience. There is a dearth of laborers, and we have not one to spare. Instead of discouraging those who are trying to serve the Master, we should seek to encourage many more laborers to enter the field. All who commune with God will find abundance of work to do for Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 39)
Those who go forth in the spirit of the Master, seeking to reach souls with the truth, will not find the work of drawing souls to Christ a dull, uninteresting drudgery. They are charged with a work as God’s husbandmen, and they will become more and more vitalized as they give themselves to the service of God. It is a joyous work to open the Scriptures to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 40)
Let all our ministers be sincerely in earnest in regard to the future world. Let all their works testify that they are born of God. As the physical body is in constant need of the vitalizing air, so the life of the soul is kept in healthfulness as one is guided into all truth. The life must be constantly stimulated by truth that sanctifies the soul. Those who are exalted in their own supposed superior wisdom need to consider that unless they have that faith that works by love, purifying the soul, and enlarging the intellect; and unless they hold up the divine standard, their work will be a failure. Before engaging in any enterprise, let them first seek the Lord in prayer, asking Him to co-operate with them. God will encourage the humble, the pure, and the upright in heart. Those whom the Lord leads will deal uprightly with God, and with men.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 41)
My brethren in the ministry, watch diligently, lest the continuous engrossment of the mind in business shall extinguish the purity of the soul life and crush out that godliness that needs to be strengthened in every action. Unless in this life we live out the principles of heaven, we shall never gain an entrance into the city of the redeemed. Now is our opportunity to cultivate the heavenly graces.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 42)
Make the Word of God your study and your standard of duty. With all meekness and reverence put your trust in the Holy One. Read and understand how to combine in daily action the principles: “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.”“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” [Romans 12:11; 1 Corinthians 10:31.]
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 43)
“Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy.” [Revelation 3:4.] It will profit us to cultivate the pure principles of heaven in this life, and to hold fast our integrity in honoring Christ as our Redeemer, who gave His life to secure for us an eternal inheritance.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 44)
Brethren and sisters, let us cultivate unfeigned faith. Let unbending uprightness and lofty integrity characterize our every action. Let us give Christ the first place in our hearts. Let us make Him the man of our counsel. Looking unto Jesus in true simplicity, we shall inherit the overcomer’s reward.
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 45)
Let the language of every trembling soul be: “Whom have I in heaven but Thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside Thee.”“Thou shalt guide me with Thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.” [Psalm 73:25, 24.]
(22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, 46)
Lt 50, 1907
Belden, F. E. St. Helena, California February 6, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 7MR 271-272. + F. E. Belden My dear nephew:
I feel deeply burdened because of the position that you occupy. I have hoped that the Holy Spirit would open your eyes, that you might discern what manner of spirit you are of, and that you would turn unto the Lord. Had you always walked humbly before God, you might now be standing in the light. Today you are being tested and tried. I know your spiritual condition, and my soul is so bowed with grief that it is almost impossible for me to write.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 1)
For years I have had presented before me your reckless words and actions. O that the Lord would lay upon you the desire to see yourself as you really are before God. The end of all things is right upon us, but you seem to be as one blinded. Wake up; for your soul’s sake, wake up, and remove the stumbling blocks. You are as a ship at sea, without a pilot.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 2)
You are quick to blame others when you are brought into difficulty. But will you consider whether you are not to blame for some of the very conditions that you think oppress you? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Will you not now, even before another day goes by, seek the Lord? When you are indeed converted; when you have fallen on the Rock to be broken, then you will find a comfort and a peace of mind that you do not now experience. You have chosen your own way. You and others who have been associated with you have manifested a spirit of hatred against those who might have been a help to you. Before you go further in the manifestation of a spirit of desperation, will you not seek to die to self? Will you not give to God what remains of your life? I have felt so sad as I have seen you turning away from the warnings that God has sent you. So long have you sought to justify yourself in a wrong course of action, that your power of clear discernment is impaired. You will never find peace of mind unless you give up your pride and your self-esteem.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 3)
I am writing to you the things that are presented to me by the Lord. I tremble when I think of the lengths to which you have gone in a course contrary to the Word of God. I urge you to delay no longer; for the judgments of God are beginning to fall upon the earth, and upon those who despise the law of God. You need to seek the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. O that you would repent and be converted. Your strong spirit leads you to actions that God cannot approve. You can never be free from this spell of the enemy until self is broken and you acknowledge the supremacy of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 4)
You have chosen yourself as your own master; and when not under the control of the Holy Spirit, you become tyrannical. Your masterly, overbearing spirit is working in you a character that is far from being like Christ’s. Remember that a Christian is one who is Christlike.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 5)
In the tenth chapter of John we read: “I am the good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. As the Father knoweth Me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” [Verses 14-16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 6)
Your severe criticism of some whom the Lord is using, and your affiliation with some whom the Lord reproves, is an evidence that you are standing on the wrong side. Every day, as you continue to open your heart to unbelief and to falsehood, you are being led further into the darkness. But you will be held accountable for the great light from heaven that you have received.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 7)
O how you have for many years spoiled your record, as you have followed your own unsanctified will. You have had the utmost confidence in your own judgment, and this has sometimes led you to work counter to the will of God. Will you bear in mind that you are not your own, that you have been bought with a price? Christ, our Redeemer, the Prince of heaven, condescended to come to this world and to live an exemplary life. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 8)
“Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” [Ephesians 4:30.] What an assurance! What an inducement to put forth earnest efforts to practice the virtues of Christ!
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 9)
You need to watch unto prayer. Seek to restrain your speech, which sometimes reveals a spirit of evil surmising and an uncontrolled temper. When you are tempted to speak words of accusation against any of your brethren, pause, and think seriously.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 10)
“Let all bitterness and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil-speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: and be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 11)
“Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient; but rather giving of thanks.” [Ephesians 4:31, 32; 5:1-4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 12)
Will you not now make a determined effort to die to self? You need to humble your heart before God, and confess to Him your mistake in following your own ideas, as though they were the wisdom of God. Your wisdom lies in patterning after the Saviour.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 13)
Every one who is rightly related to Christ will treat his fellow men thoughtfully and kindly. He will be prayerful, consecrating himself to the work of God, subduing the idea that he can guide himself. He will heed the words of Christ’s invitation:
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 14)
“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 15)
The daily prayer of those who follow Christ’s teaching will be: “Lord, what can I do to bless others?” Thus they reveal that they are learning Christ’s way, instead of selfishly walking in paths of their own choosing. Those who follow on to know the Lord will know that His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 16)
In the visions of the night I have been speaking to you. You were represented to me as one discouraged, disappointed in your efforts to follow human plans, instead of a plain, “Thus saith the Lord.” You had not opened your heart to love. But a divine voice said to you, “Follow Me, and you will walk in safety. If you wear My yoke, you will manifest a sanctified tenderness and a love for those with whom you are connected.”
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 17)
In all your associations with others, be kind and courteous. If you humble yourself as a child of God, His way will be exalted in your eyes. With heart imbued with the love of God, there will be no impatience, no rough or harsh words. Will you ask the Lord to cleanse and sanctify your spirit, that you may realize the softening influence of the grace of Christ? When love is made uppermost in your life, when you cease to act on the impulses that have carried you further and further away from the divine Leader, then you will cease to fret and to censure and to blame others, because of your supposed injuries. When from the heart you can say, My wisdom has been foolishness, and now I desire my mind to be sanctified; when you make an unconditional surrender to the Lord, you will reveal a change in spirit, in words, and in actions.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 18)
There has been formed in you a spirit of controversy, and you will never attain true success until you learn to distrust your own judgment. Faith and works must be combined, in perfect submission to the Great Teacher, who desires to be to you “Wisdom, and Righteousness, and Sanctification, and Redemption.” [1 Corinthians 1:30.] Nothing less than a faith that works by love and purifies the soul will avail. Many who are not sanctified through the fear of God, and through obedience to His Word, are ignorant of the spirit that actuates them.
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 19)
In the day of judgment it will be revealed that in many cases it would have been much better if men of the world had never met those who profess godliness, but who are not converted to Bible practice. A true Christian is one who is a partaker of the divine nature and has escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. He bears the marks of true kindness; the gentleness of Christ characterizes his speech. He does not make great pretensions as to his own ability. He heeds well the warning: “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:37.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 20)
You are in danger of overestimating your own value. So long have you followed plans of the enemy’s devising, that you seem powerless to break the spell or to resist evil influences. In the name of the Lord I ask you to seek the Lord with all the power at your command. Repent, and be rebaptized, that you may act a part in union with Christ as a laborer together with God. Just as long as you seek to have your own way, trying to serve God and mammon, you will continue your record of mistakes and failures. You have now an opportunity to redeem the past, but nothing will avail you short of a complete surrender to God. Do not continue to make war against those whom you suppose ought to help you and favor you. Those who cherish a spirit of warfare against those who might help them will never find their way out of perplexities, or be free from the deception of Satan. Why should you continue in an evil way, even though others may have treated you unjustly?
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 21)
As you accept the counsel of God, it is your privilege to trust your temporal interests with Him who has said: “Take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:31-33.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 22)
You, and others to whom the Lord has sent messages of warning, are being tested. Soon the mercy and forbearance of God in behalf of the rebellious heart will cease. Messages have come to them to lead them to consider the error of their ways, and to turn unto the Lord; but they have acted as though they were being injured and have even spurned the thought that the Lord had a message for them. They have worked earnestly to increase the spirit of unbelief in the messages that God has given. They have rejected all the efforts of the Lord to save them, and of them it must be said:
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 23)
“Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out My hand, and no man regarded; but ye have set at nought all My counsel, and would none of My reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; when your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon Me, but I will not answer; they shall seek Me early, but they shall not find Me: for that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord: they would none of My counsel; they despised all My reproof: therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them. But whoso hearkeneth unto Me, shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.” [Proverbs 1:24-33.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 24)
Many have received all the evidences of truth that God will ever give them. They have permitted and encouraged false sentiments; and they have practiced deception to cover up their apostasy. I am instructed to say to those who desire to return to God, “Cleanse your hands, and purify your hearts. Break loose from the spell of the enemy. Lay aside the garments of self-righteousness. Humble your hearts before God, and come into line.”
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 25)
“Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up. After two days will He revive us: in the third day He will raise us up, and we shall live in His sight. Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 50, 1907, 26)
Lt 52, 1907
Belden, F. E. St. Helena, California February 9, 1907 Previously unpublished. + F. E. Belden My dear nephew Frank Belden:
Your case is still kept before me. You are passing through the most perilous period of your life history. For years Satan has exercised his power over you, but I am praying that the spell may be broken, and that you may now take your stand on the Lord’s side.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 1)
At times I am in an agony of mind as I see that the enemy has been gaining control of you. In the name of Jesus your Saviour, I call upon you to break the spell of the enemy that is endangering your soul. You have lost the power of clear spiritual discernment, and your mind is changeable. Yet you do not perceive your peril.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 2)
You are in danger of making moves that will result in your ruin. I do not want you to make shipwreck of faith. I desire to see you seeking the Lord while He may be found, and calling upon Him while He is near. You are not happy. Will you not, for the sake of Him who gave His life for you, surrender to the Lord? Will not you and your family renew your covenant with Him? Do not delay; for delay is dangerous.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 3)
The Word of God is the means by which temptation may be resisted and overcome. You need now for your soul’s sake to make an entire change. You need to come to the place where you have no confidence in yourself.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 4)
Because of your controversies with your brethren, a reproach has been brought upon the cause of God. A day of reckoning is coming when every act and motive will be brought into judgment. Then every man will be rewarded according as his work shall be. Are you prepared for the test? The word of God is clear and plain; read it, and, for Christ’s sake, practice its teachings.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 5)
The invitation now comes to all, Repent, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out. Why will men unite with evil agencies, to hurt the influence of the children of God? Let not your time and your talents be turned aside from the truth of God to do a work that God did not assign to you. Hurt not the heart of Christ in the person of His saints.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 6)
Continue not to resist the warnings that God has given you. Break this awful spell that rests upon you. Humble yourself under the hand of God. Much time has been lost. Guided by the counsel of God, you might have accomplished a good work. But you have estranged yourself; you have followed your own erring judgment, and have thereby been led into many serious errors.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 7)
Evil angels are binding their cords about you. The dread leader of the fallen host is determined to lead you to the point where you cannot turn. I entreat of you to disappoint the enemy, to break this spell of deception, and to become converted, heart, soul, and mind. When you will humble your heart, the Lord Jesus will come and take possession of His blood-bought heritage.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 8)
“Thy words,” said David, “have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” [Psalm 119:11.] Satan is baffled when he finds the heart preoccupied with the truth of God. Will not you seek to reach the position where you can say, “Thou through Thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies”? [Verse 98.] It has been long since you were walking in the way of the Lord. You have often been represented to me as stout-hearted, refusing the Lord’s way. The dangers before you are great, and your heart has been set against God’s ways and God’s will. The truth will bear away the victory. Come into line, and redeem the past.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 9)
February 10
Last night again I had a representation of your case. I awoke at twelve o’clock and could not sleep longer. My soul was greatly burdened as I prayed for you. Your condition was opened before me and your determination to have your own way. This determination should be overcome.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 10)
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Will you consider this?
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 11)
Every soul is engaged in a warfare against fallen angels. We are oft in heaviness through manifold temptations. But the trial of our faith my be productive of great good, if we look to the Saviour by faith, that we may be found unto His praise and honor and glory at His appearing. Those who maintain a living connection with heavenly agencies will be protected.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 12)
When, as an angel of light, Satan came to Christ in the wilderness, to tempt Him, the Saviour did not enter into a controversy of words with the enemy. Satan tempted Christ, when He was weary and worn and hungry. “If Thou be the Son of God,” he said, “command that these stones be made bread. But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not lie by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 13)
“Then the devil taketh Him up into the holy city, and setteth Him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto Him, If Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning Thee; and in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone.” [Matthew 4:3-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 14)
In quoting this Scripture from the ninety-first Psalm, the wily tempter left out the words, “In all Thy ways.” [Verse 11.] Many today are tempted in a similar manner to believe that they may experience the blessing of God, and receive the promises, without complying with the necessary conditions. There is no promise of protection to one who needlessly places himself in danger. Christ is our perfect pattern. We can successfully overcome temptation, as He overcame temptation, by the Word of God. “Get thee hence, Satan,” He replied, “It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” [Matthew 4:7, 10.] They who trust in God, following His way, will continually be under the guardianship of holy angels; and they will receive strength for the performance of every duty that God requires of them. But they who follow their own way cannot claim the promises of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 15)
“And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the Lord, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink.... And Moses said unto them, Why chide ye with me? Wherefore do ye tempt the Lord?
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 16)
“And the people thirsted there for water; and the people murmured against Moses, and said, Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 17)
“And Moses cried unto the Lord, saying, What shall I do unto this people? They be almost ready to stone me.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 18)
“And the Lord said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go. Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. And he called the name of the place Massah (Temptation), and Meribah (Strife), because of the chiding of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the Lord, saying, Is the Lord among us or not?” [Exodus 17:1-7.]
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 19)
How natural it is for men to murmur when they encounter difficulties. But to those who manifest a calm confidence in the Lord, He will reveal Himself in such a manner as will glorify His name. Notwithstanding the many occasions when God had wrought wondrously in behalf of His people, when they were brought to a test, they murmured and complained. They might have said in peaceful assurance, The Lord has bidden us to go this way; He knows better than we, and we will trust in Him. But they did not act as those who really believed in the Lord God of Israel.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 20)
So with many today when they are tested and tried. They receive with indifference many of the mercies of God and swell with their own self-importance. But when brought into difficulty, their trials seem large. They dishonor God by finding fault with their brethren, or with their circumstances.
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 21)
“Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness; when your fathers tempted Me, proved Me, and saw My works forty years.) ... Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end.” [Hebrews 3:7-9, 12-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 52, 1907, 22)
Lt 54, 1907
Gotzian, J. St. Helena, California February 23, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in CD 295; 6Bio 144. Mrs. Gotzian
Paradise Valley Sanitarium Dear Sister Gotzian:
You seem surprised that I have not sooner answered your letter. But of late I have been forced into strait places. Crisis after crisis has had to be met, and this while I was suffering with the influenza which is so prevalent. And yet, amid weakness and perplexity, I have reason to be very grateful to my heavenly Father that He has enabled me to keep busily at work. During a large part of the day my pen is kept going. Last week many letters were sent to Australia, where thy needed messages that had been given me for them.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 1)
I wish to say to you, my sister, Do not make perplexities for yourself by trying to make everyone see as you see and follow the plans you have devised. I have told you that you do not view everything in a correct light. Your ideas are not always pleasing to others. Your strong traits of character lead you to seek to mold and fashion others according to your ideas.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 2)
I must speak plainly to you, my sister. Let others act upon their individual merit and intelligence. God expects them to do this under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. To every man and woman God has given a work, and He would have every mind so well balanced that the work can be done after the divine similitude. You, my sister, must not seek to put your mold upon other minds. You must not feel that your mind and judgment is to be the criterion for other minds. The Lord has given to each capability and tact; and if we will be guided by His wisdom, the minds of the workers will blend and the work be carried on harmoniously.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 3)
Your way is not the way that would be wisest to follow in every instance. For others to attempt to follow it exactly might unfit them for the work they are appointed to do, in accordance with their intelligence. If you should permit it to appear that you want your precise way carried out, and that you desire to correct at once anything that is contrary to your ideas, you would spoil your influence.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 4)
Light has been given me of the Lord that it would be a mistake for us to suppose that it was your duty to continue to act as matron in the sanitarium. You and I have a special interest in that institution, but for the work of matron we must select some woman who is younger than you or me—one who is wise and ingenious and well adapted to that special work by temperament and training.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 5)
You and I are to be a special help to the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. We both desire it to succeed financially and to wisely represent the truth of God, so that men and women shall be won to allegiance to correct principles. We must not feel that because we have a financial interest in the institution that we have a right to do and say things that would lessen our influence for doing the work that should be done by us. In the matter of dress, we should make a suitable appearance. I will endeavor to heed the light given me on this point.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 6)
My sister, do not take a criticizing or questioning attitude toward managers or workers; we must not show by our actions that we have no faith in the work that is being done. We must not investigate and find fault and urge our way. We must not seek to make our habits and methods a standard for the home. Let us make our ideas as far as possible blend with the ideas of those who carry the load of responsibility. Each one must put aside the idea that his mind and judgment are to be the controlling influence. Be cheerful, be kind, be courteous.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 7)
I have been shown that we must all work together in harmony. In a sanitarium we must not expect that worldlings who come for treatment will fall in readily with all the plans of educated Christians. They must not be made to feel that they are under an iron rule. Nurses have to handle their cases wisely and with good judgment if they would hold their confidence. We are not to seek to bend them to the ways and plans of any one mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 8)
I have seen that it is not acceptable to the patients, or to the nurses, or the ones who cook, or to those employed in other departments to be watched and criticized and instructed by one not in charge that some other way is better than the ones to which they have been accustomed. We cannot mold the minds of worldlings to health reform principles all at once; therefore we must not set down too stringent rules in regard to the diet of the patients. When worldly patients come to the sanitarium, they have to make a great change in their dietary; and that they may feel the change as little as possible, the very best cookery in healthful lines should be brought in—the most palatable and inviting dishes placed upon the table.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 9)
When we were arranging for the first sanitarium in Australia, the food was so cheaply prepared that it was not palatable. I ate at the table, that I might understand this matter. I told those in charge that with such a meager diet patients would not be favorably impressed with the sanitarium. I counselled them again and again to secure intelligent cooks, that they might teach what health reform really is, and to prepare food in a palatable way. It was some time before I could make this matter understood; but at last they took my advice; and when this was done, the greatest satisfaction was expressed.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 10)
In no case should we feel justified in providing a scant diet in order to economize. Neither should we entertain the opinion that my habit of diet or your habit of diet is the best that could be prescribed for the patients. You and I are to live up to the light on health reform; but there must be no attempt to bring the patients to a scanty diet. I have had message after message upon this point. Those who pay for board and treatment should have their food prepared in the most palatable form. The reason of this is obvious. When the patients are deprived of flesh foods, the system feels the change. There is a feeling of letting down, and they will demand a liberality in their diet. Dishes should be prepared that will invite the appetite and will be pleasing to the sight.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 11)
My sister, make it as pleasant as possible for all the workers with whom you are connected. Do not seek to carry out your ideas with unalterable firmness. Seventh-day Adventists must be kind and conciliating. We who make a profession of godliness must be a pattern of patience and kindliness. We are to be of one mind and work in harmony.
(22LtMs, Lt 54, 1907, 12)
Lt 56, 1907
Workers in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium St. Helena, California February 12, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PC 226-228. + To the workers in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium Dear Brethren and Sisters:
The past night has been one of wakefulness and prayer. I am anxious to understand the ways of the Lord, and to know what words I should speak to those who are in charge of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 1)
I heard One of authority speaking to a company of workers, including every one who has a part to act in the sanitarium. These were the words He said:
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 2)
“Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto Myself, that where I am there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 3)
When Jesus spoke these words to His disciples, He was about to leave them. He had just given them a portion of His parting address, and in that He had foretold the work of Judas in betraying his Lord for thirty pieces of silver. When Judas left the presence of Christ to perform this terrible work, Jesus said to His disciples, “Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in Him. If God be glorified in Him, God shall also glorify Him in Himself, and shall straightway glorify Him. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek Me, and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go ye cannot come; so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another.
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 4)
“Simon Peter said unto Him, Lord, whither goest Thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go thou canst not follow Me now; but thou shalt follow Me afterwards. Peter said unto Him, Lord, Why cannot I follow Thee now? I will lay down my life for Thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for My sake? Verily, verily I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied Me thrice.” [John 13:31-38.]
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 5)
The workers in our sanitariums should understand that each has an individual work. Each should realize his duty to keep his soul and body under discipline to the great Physician, who gave His life to rescue us from the control of a powerful foe. After He had burst the fetters of the tomb, He said to His disciples, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] And before He ascended to heaven He declared, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 6)
Here is your work. Teach the sick. Proclaim the gospel to them, persuading them to become Christ’s disciples. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are pledged to be with you in every emergency. Act as Christians, having divine orders. God is to be trusted, believed, obeyed. His character is to be represented in every household.
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 7)
A wonderful responsibility rests upon those connected with the sanitariums established in His name for the treatment of the sick. This is to be done without the use of poisonous drugs. Those who become workers in the sanitarium are to believe the words of Christ, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” [Verse 20.] Those who have the fear of God in the heart will cultivate a sweet disposition. Forbearance and courtesy will be manifested in the life. Duties will be faithfully discharged, and in a way that will not leave a disagreeable impression on the minds of the sick or the well.
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 8)
In order to maintain a right influence, the workers must reveal that they are one in sentiment. Do not let it be seen that there is disunion among the helpers.
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 9)
In your care of the sick, act tenderly, kindly, faithfully, that you may have a converting influence upon them. You have need of the grace of Christ in order to properly represent the service of Christ. And as you present the grace of truth in true, disinterested service, angels will be present to sustain you. The Comforter will be with you to fulfil the promise of the Saviour, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” [Verse 20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 10)
I have a charge to give, a message to bear to our sanitarium workers. Keep your souls in purity. Do a work that will have a winning influence on those placed in your charge. You can speak often, to the sick, of the great Physician, who can heal the diseases of the body as verily as He heals the sickness of the soul. Pray with the sick, and try to lead them to see in Christ their Healer. Tell them that if they will look to Him in faith, He will say to them, “Thy sins be forgiven thee.” [Matthew 9:2.] It means very much to the sick to learn this lesson.
(22LtMs, Lt 56, 1907, 11)
Lt 58, 1907
Board of Managers of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium St. Helena, California February 13, 1907 Previously unpublished. To the Board of Managers of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium Dear Brethren:
The movement that resulted in one who was acting an important part in the sanitarium to leave was a great mistake; and the withdrawal of this worker from the institution was an influence in the wrong direction, which brought a very dark chapter into her experience. This step need never have been taken, and all the trouble could have been avoided if the responsible persons had acted with wisdom and discretion. All such wrong moves leave a reproach on the manager, or the physician, or the responsible men of the institution, and leave a blot on the institution itself.
(22LtMs, Lt 58, 1907, 1)
The worker who took the wrong step in removing from the sanitarium has not the approval of God; and the ones who might have prevented it, but who rather encouraged it, are accountable to God for the results. Those who bore responsibilities as directors and helpers did not manifest true wisdom in permitting such a thing to take place. And the one who made the move has brought injury to the sanitarium that will not easily be recovered from.
(22LtMs, Lt 58, 1907, 2)
Lt 60, 1907
Southern Union Conference Committee St. Helena, California February 24, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpTB #11 24-26. + To the Southern Union Conference Committee Dear Brethren:
I have a message to bear to our people in the southern field. There is an important work to be carried on in Nashville and vicinity, and a decided interest should be manifested in that field. An unselfish work is to be carried forward there.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 1)
It is in harmony with the leadings of God’s Spirit that Brethren Sutherland and Magan and their associates have begun a work at Madison. The Lord guided them in the selection of a location for the school. Had a small sanitarium been established in connection with the school, this would have been in the order of God, and these two institutions would have been a mutual help. This has not yet been done, but our brethren in Madison need not be discouraged.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 2)
I would say to our brethren in the southern field, Let there be no restriction laid on the Madison school to limit the work in the field of its operation. If Brethren Sutherland and Magan have promised not to draw students to their school from the southern states, they should be freed from any such restriction. Such a promise should never have been asked or granted. I am instructed to say that there should be no restrictions limiting their freedom to draw students from the southern field. There is need of such an institution as has been established near Nashville, and let no one endeavor to hinder the attendance of those who can at that school best receive the training that will fit them to labor in the southern states and in other mission fields.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 3)
At Berrien Springs Brethren Sutherland and Magan carried on a work of self-sacrifice. They did not leave the North because they had lost their influence; they went to the South because they saw the needs of that field. In their work in Madison they should have encouragement from the ones they have come to help. Those who have in charge the disbursement of funds coming to the southern field should not fail to render proportionate help to the Madison school.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 4)
In the Madison school the students are taught how to till the soil, how to build houses and perform other lines of useful labor. These are some of the lines of work that the Lord instructed us to introduce in our school in Australia. With a practical training, students will be taught to fill useful positions in many places.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 5)
Skill in the common arts is a gift from God. He provides both the gift and the wisdom to use the gift aright. When He desired a work done on the tabernacle, He said, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.” [Exodus 31:2, 3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 6)
Through the prophet Isaiah the Lord says, “Give ear, and hear My voice; hearken, and hear My speech. Doth the plowman plow all day to sow? doth he open and break the clods of his ground? When he hath made broad the face thereof, doth he not cast abroad the fitches, and scatter the cummin, and cast in the principle wheat, and the appointed barley, and the rye, in their place? For this God doth instruct him to discretion, and doth teach him.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 7)
“For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod. Bread corn is bruised, because he will not ever be threshing it, nor break it with the wheel of his cart, nor bruise it with his horsemen. This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working.” [Isaiah 28:23-29.]
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 8)
Today the Lord has called some to the work of teaching others, to fit them for service in His cause. Let those who are so called go cheerfully to their field of labor, following ever the leading of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 9)
God dispenses His gifts as it pleases Him. He bestows one gift upon one, and another gift upon another, but all for the good of the whole body. It is in God’s order that some shall be of service in one line of work and others in other lines of work—all working under the self-same spirit. The recognition of this plan will be a safeguard against carnal emulation, pride, envy, or contempt of one another. It will strengthen unity and mutual love.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 10)
If in the opening providence of God it becomes necessary to erect a meetinghouse in some locality, the Lord is pleased if there are among His own people those to whom He has given wisdom and skill to perform the necessary work. He sends men to carry His truth to people of a strange tongue, and He has sometimes opened the minds of His missionaries, enabling them quickly to learn the language. By this relation, the natives are prepared to receive the gospel message when it is given in their own tongue.
(22LtMs, Lt 60, 1907, 11)
Lt 62, 1907
Brethren in Graysville, Tennessee St. Helena, California February 11, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 397-398. + To our brethren in Graysville, Tennessee:
I have a message for our people in Graysville. Christ sent forth His disciples to go to all countries and peoples and tongues. He is not pleased when many who are well instructed in the truth remain together in one place; for they are in danger of imbibing a spirit of criticizing and faultfinding. He desires them to engage in His work in new fields. He desires them to educate people who know not the truth. As they open the Word of life to others, the Lord will move upon hearts to receive the truth, and new churches will be raised up.
(22LtMs, Lt 62, 1907, 1)
Those who manifest pride by belittling the capabilities of others, and speaking contemptuously of them, need a personal experience in the service of God. Let them move out in humility and labor in new fields, under the supervision of God. To many of our people who are located in Graysville I am instructed to say, Go forth and labor in fields where the truth has never been proclaimed. The Holy Spirit will be your helper and teacher, and you will obtain a new and living experience.
(22LtMs, Lt 62, 1907, 2)
I am bidden to say to our brethren in Graysville and in other centers, If the Lord has not called you definitely to a work where you are located, go forth as missionaries sent by God. Labor as Christ did, preaching wherever you can obtain a hearing. Labor and pray. Christ will be with all who will do honest missionary work. New churches are to be built up, and in many places the Word of life is to be proclaimed. Multitudes are to hear from inspired tongues the last message of mercy to a fallen world.
(22LtMs, Lt 62, 1907, 3)
God will give to His messengers a knowledge of the truth of His Word, and He will give them clear utterance. Others will be converted, and they in turn will labor for others.
(22LtMs, Lt 62, 1907, 4)
Let the members of the church in Graysville seek earnestly for the converting power of God upon their hearts. Let them seek to be brought under the softening, subduing influence of His Holy Spirit, to free them from the spirit of faultfinding, and to make them of one mind. When men are submissive to God, He can use them effectively in His great work.
(22LtMs, Lt 62, 1907, 5)
“Christ being come an High Priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh; how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God.” [Hebrews 9:11-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 62, 1907, 6)
Lt 64, 1907
Wessels, J. J. St. Helena, California February 21, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mr. J. J. Wessels
Sanitarium
Paradise Valley, California Dear Brother and Sister Wessels:
I expected to come to San Diego this month; but J. E. White has sent a message that he is coming to St. Helena next week. This may delay us till the latter part of March.
(22LtMs, Lt 64, 1907, 1)
We have had rainy weather through all the month of January, and thus far into February. How has it been with you in San Diego? We would like to have more of the sunshine, but I suppose the land needs the rains we are having. It appears today as if the weather would clear; the sun is trying to shine. I pray that nothing may be permitted to come in to make of none effect the precious work that should be done at the sanitarium at Paradise Valley. Now is our time and opportunity to become better acquainted with God. We will be tested and proved, and we need to know the source of our strength. The Lord is our Helper and Strength, our frontguard and our rearward.
(22LtMs, Lt 64, 1907, 2)
I would have you look to the source of your efficiency. Put not your trust in man, nor make flesh your arm. Look to Jesus. Pray much: believe; and you will see the saving grace of the One who promises to help all who trust in His power to save. Be of good courage, and draw, draw with earnest faith upon the blessed help promised. Do not become discouraged in any way.
(22LtMs, Lt 64, 1907, 3)
I have just returned from making an effort in Oakland for the members of the Berkeley church. I think we have reason to be encouraged with the results of the meetings we held there, and to believe that more prosperous days are before the church at Berkeley. This experience was a hard trial for me; but I felt that I must speak. Things had not been right for some time among the church members. There was need of great changes in the characters of some.
(22LtMs, Lt 64, 1907, 4)
The meetings we held were of great interest, the last meeting lasting from 2:30 p.m. till 7 on Sunday. We labored and prayed with the brethren and sisters till those of us who carried the burden felt that we could do no more. Before the meeting closed, nearly all had made clean work, emptying their hearts of dissensions and coming into unity with one another. I pray that the Spirit of the Lord will work on the minds and hearts of those who did not take a right position at that meeting until every soul is brought to realize the saving grace of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 64, 1907, 5)
There were two men present who had embraced the truth in the past, but had given up, and for months had been disregarding the Sabbath. In the meeting these men expressed their determination to come into line. There was rejoicing that these lost sheep were brought back to the fold. How pleased the wives of these men were, and we all rejoiced with them. We all have a work to do. Watch unto prayer. Believe, believe. The Lord will save souls if we will be earnest for their salvation.
(22LtMs, Lt 64, 1907, 6)
Lt 66, 1907
Palmer, E. R. St. Helena, California February 21, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in PM 124, 314; 7MR 194. Brother E. R. Palmer:
We have a great work to do in the year that is before us. Those who advance, and prepare themselves for the work of God, will have precious light to guide them; and the perplexities they meet in the experiences connected with the closing of this earth’s history need not cause them to lose their bearings.
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 1)
All who engage in a work of reform will be assailed by the enemies of truth. In the past, in connection with the work of the third angel’s message, those who have engaged in the work of establishing sanitariums, schools, or other institutions of reform have had to meet obstacles and adversities. Just now the enemy will work with great power to pervert the understanding of men. Men who refuse to be converted and come into line, and use their capabilities to advance the work on Bible principles, will set up their own ideas, follow their own devisings, retain their own erroneous suppositions, and work to create disunion and lead souls from the true path. This we have seen illustrated in the experience of some at Battle Creek.
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 2)
In times past I have encouraged the work of selling Dr. Kellogg’s medical books. But the time has now come when I must encourage our canvassers to give their time and energies to the circulation of publications that are giving the trumpet a certain sound. Shall not all who believe in the soon coming of Christ rather give their influence in behalf of the circulation of books containing Bible truth for this time? We must come on a high platform of labor. A world is to be warned, and we need for this great work all the capabilities and talents of our canvassers. They should help to bear their testimony in behalf of present truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 3)
We need many more canvassers, not to sell books containing fables, but books that are filled with the truth of God. We cannot as a people afford to increase the circulation of publications that work counter to the truth we should be teaching. We cannot afford to spend our time and talents in the employ of men who are working to make of none effect the truths that have made us a peculiar people, truths to which we have held for over fifty years. I am often warned of the importance of faithfulness on the part of our people in proclaiming to the world the messages that God has entrusted to them, that a people may be prepared for the great closing up of this earth’s history. We have an extensive line of literature that should come before the people of the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 4)
The time has come when our people should understand that it is not profitable for them to spend their time and talents in selling the medical works into which the author is weaving dangerous spiritual sophistries. It has been presented to me that in selling Dr. Kellogg’s books, we are helping to advance his work and to give him greater publicity. Can we afford to have a part in building up for him a notoriety that will help him to scatter broadcast the seductive heresies found in the book Living Temple?
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 5)
Health books have their place in the work, and books will be prepared by men who are not at war with the foundation principles of our message.
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 6)
The ability of our people to circulate literature is a precious talent for which we shall be held accountable. We are not to do a work that will bring in a revenue for persons who have departed from the faith and who are working counter to God’s appointed ministry. Various ones will offer flattering inducements for agents to circulate their books. Let our people be on guard. A portion of the revenue derived from the circulation of the books handled by our canvassers should be used in strengthening the work of our publishing houses.
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 7)
Instead of engaging in a work that will place money in the hands of those engaged in a work of opposition, let our book agents give their attention to the books that are filled with the gospel message for this time, the gospel that will prepare a people to meet their God.
(22LtMs, Lt 66, 1907, 8)
Lt 68, 1907
Haskell, S. N. St. Helena, California February 24, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder S. N. Haskell
575 25th Street
Oakland Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
We received letters from you last night. We had hoped soon to be in Southern California; but Edson has sent word that he is coming to St. Helena this week. Now I think we will be ready to join you in your visit to Loma Linda.
(22LtMs, Lt 68, 1907, 1)
In regard to what you wrote about Brother Steel, I would say that we need not be surprised at anything when such men are placed in office. He has received his stamp of character from Battle Creek. In the attitude he is now taking, we see the fruits of placing in official position men who like to rule their fellow men.
(22LtMs, Lt 68, 1907, 2)
The very experience we are now passing through I was shown would come if the camp-meeting were allowed to pass without some steps being taken to prevent this evil work. I saw that a few were doing their best to make trouble at the camp-meeting. Light was given me to the effect that we must give attention to this matter. I bore a plain, decided testimony, and yet nothing was done to set things in order. I am so sorry that the evil was not corrected then. We must now seek counsel of God, knowing that all power [is] in His hands, and believing that He will work out this experience to His name’s glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 68, 1907, 3)
At our last visit to Oakland, we did the best that we could. The effort that was begun for the members of the Berkeley church at the meeting on Sunday must be followed up, and those who have listened to the evil reports concerning Brother and Sister Rice should be labored for. Now, Brother Haskell, take hold of the work intelligently, and make this matter plain to the members of the Berkeley church; for they need to be strengthened. God has wrought to deliver some from the snare of the fowler. Let everything possible now be done to create a new order of things. Do your work intelligently and in the name of the Lord. Trust in Him. Draw nigh to God, and let Him work out this matter to His name’s glory. Have faith in God, and He will work out precious victories for you. As for me, I will stand by the light God has given me and will make diligent efforts to place truth on vantage ground.
(22LtMs, Lt 68, 1907, 4)
Lt 70, 1907
Haskell, S. N. St. Helena, California February 26, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 1MR 168-170. Elder S. N. Haskell
575 25th Street
Oakland Dear Brother:
Brother Walter Harper has been conversing with me about the need of greater effort for the sale of my books, and especially Great Controversy and Patriarchs and Prophets. I encouraged him to [do] all he could to push the sale of these books, and I told him that if the publishing houses would not keep him supplied with my books, that I would supply them. But as I consider the matter, I see that at this time, when so much is being said against organization, we must be careful not to work for disorganization. We must not get out of line. I am fearful regarding any plan that would take the work out of the hands of our publishing houses; for this might lessen the confidence of our brethren in these important agencies for the dissemination of present truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 70, 1907, 1)
I believe that in the selling of your books you want to do just what is right. I believe the Lord will guide you with His counsel. Regarding my books, I feel that I cannot take them into my own hands, and thus weaken the work of the office of publication. It would not be wise for me to make a move that would look as if I did not have confidence in our leading publishing houses. We must do all things in a righteous way. We must not weaken the hearts and hands of those of whom we expect so much.
(22LtMs, Lt 70, 1907, 2)
Years ago, when I was in Battle Creek, I was much distressed that Great Controversy should lie idle on the shelf. For two years it was held back, that Bible Readings might have more attention. All that I could say did not change the course of those who had control of the canvassing work. They treated me as if I were a child. If at that time I had appealed to the people, asking for agents to handle my books, and promising to supply them, it would have been in the order of the Lord; but now things have changed. There is not now a studied, determined effort to hold back the books that are of the most importance. We are planning to bring out many books, and for the pioneer in our work to make any move now that would create confusion would not be wise. We must not bring any discouragement on our publishing houses at this critical period in their experience.
(22LtMs, Lt 70, 1907, 3)
We have advised Pacific Press to give up commercial work. This has been done. The Review and Herald also is giving its principal energies to our own work. The Nashville house is doing less outside work and is making great exertions to secure good agents and to sell our denominational books. To take my books into my own hands now would bring a great trial upon that work, and I cannot do it. I shall let the work go on as it has been going. We must press together and take no step that will bring confusion to our publishing work.
(22LtMs, Lt 70, 1907, 4)
You can do as you think best; but I have concluded to have my books handled just as they have been in the past. I shall encourage our brethren to scatter them like the leaves of autumn, but I shall leave my books to be handled by the publishing houses and shall prepare for larger sales in the future.
(22LtMs, Lt 70, 1907, 5)
Lt 72, 1907
Palmer, E. R. St. Helena, California February 25, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in CM 141; PM 124; 1MR 170-171. E. R. Palmer
Pacific Press
Mountain View, California Dear Brother:
I thank the Lord for His care and keeping power; God is good. Although in my eightieth year, my strength is wonderfully preserved. I have every reason to be grateful to God; for He gives me health, and His rich grace is constantly bestowed. I feel His peace in my heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 1)
My brethren call on me to go to different places to bear my testimony; and when I can, I go. But I have a work to do at home that must not be neglected. I must do all I can to get my writings prepared for publication.
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 2)
Yesterday I had presented to me the advisability of supplying my books direct to agents in fields where few are sold. Thus I would receive a larger income. I laid the matter before my son W. C. White, as it had been presented to me. Then he told me how he regarded the proposition, and in conclusion, said, “Mother, unless you have special direction from the Lord, I advise you to make no new moves. It will bring perplexity to others and additional care and burden to you; and you have cares and burdens enough. In every new move, we must consider the interests of the whole work.”
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 3)
During the night I had instruction as to the best course to follow at this crisis. Our work now is large; many new books must be brought out; and we must handle all parts of the work wisely. We must do our best to encourage our publishing houses in America and in foreign countries. Should I as author take up the work of handling my books myself, discouragement would be brought on our offices of publication. We have urged our publishing houses to give up commercial work, and they have done this. Should we bring confusion into the subscription book work, it would give them occasion to return to commercial work; and this would bring in delays and hindrances to the work of filling the world with our literature.
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 4)
At this period of our work, we must guard every step we take in reference to the publication of our books. I have been plainly shown that we must secure as canvassers men and women of ability. Much of the effort that has been devoted to the sale of medical books should now be given to the handling of books that contain the present truth for this time, that the evidences of our faith and the issues that are before us may be known by the people.
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 5)
The revelations that have recently been made regarding the characters of the leading officials of San Francisco are a warning regarding the principles that rule the lives of those who make void the law of God. They do not respect a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” They do not preserve justice, mercy, and the love of God. And the calamity that has befallen San Francisco is an example of the fate that will befall other cities where God’s law is trampled under foot.
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 6)
The testing truth that must come to the people in these last days is to be set forth in clear, straight lines. The men who are urging a Sunday law do not respect the Word of Jehovah. He says, “Verily My sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations.” [Exodus 31:13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 7)
I was instructed by One of authority that our work is to be carried on conscientiously by our own believing people. We are to unite our forces solidly, and work for the glory of God, multiplying the evidences of truth in every possible way. The Lord God is our counsellor. Christ is our mediator and Saviour. We are to bring into the work every living agency who feels that he is chosen of God to do, not a common, commercial work, but a work that will give light and truth, Bible truth, to the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 72, 1907, 8)
Lt 74, 1907
Those Bearing Responsibilities in Wash., D.C. Refiled as Lt 397, 1906.
Lt 76, 1907
Cobb, S. Refiled as Lt 395, 1906.
Lt 78, 1907
Members of the Berkeley Churches St. Helena, California March 5, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 73.
To the Members of the Berkeley Churches:
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 1)
I am charged with a message to our churches in Berkeley: Without thorough purification of the life, without meekness and humbleness of mind, the professing followers of Christ cannot honor Him before the world. If the graces of Christ are not revealed in their lives, they can never be admitted to the heavenly mansions He has gone to prepare for those that love Him and keep His commandments.
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 2)
There are among our church members many who, while professing to walk in the ways of the Lord, are bringing into their profession the ways and habits of unconverted self, and these are spoiling their characters. So much that is frivolous is brought into the home and church life, that the Spirit of Christ is grieved. There are entire families among us who, unless they arouse from their sleepy indifference, will be lost; for they are not converted daily; they do not understand the divine science of true godliness; and therefore they are not vessels that the Master can use. They have allowed Satan to have the guidance and control of their words and actions, and they do not realize how much harm they have done to souls by their self-exaltation. They have hurt the heart of Christ by hurting those who are the purchase of His blood. I am bidden to say to these unconverted professors: Dig deep, and lay your foundations solidly upon the Rock Christ Jesus. It is not enough for us to talk of the higher life. Our daily course of action is to be an interpretation to others of what the higher life means.
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 3)
Unless painstaking efforts are made, every new revival will bring into the church converts whose conversation is a spurious one, who have a form of godliness without the power. Earnest educational work needs to be done for these souls, that they may know what it means to be a Christian; for unless the foundation is laid in faith and practice of the truth, storm and tempest, beating upon their house, will cause it to fall. The character of such is like a bowing wall and a tottering fence.
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 4)
I am impressed to urge upon our church members the need of building on Christ Jesus. A form of godliness without a true reformation is like a house built on a sandy foundation. Build upon Jesus Christ; He is the one sure foundation. “Other foundation can no man lay than is laid, which is Christ Jesus.” [1 Corinthians 3:11.] His strength of character is sufficient for you. In Christ, the Word of God gives you the right of way to every spiritual blessing; but it is a way of self-denial and self-sacrifice; it is a way of self-control and self-discipline. The character of Christ must become your character, His Spirit, your spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 5)
Our ministering brethren need to arouse to their duty of impressing this truth on the minds of the people, and to urge them to make sure work for eternity. The future, eternal life of each individual depends, not on words, not on profession, but on earnest works. We need to make decided efforts in order to keep the heart with all diligence, while looking to Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith. We need to watch over an unruly tongue; we need to watch for opportunities to do good as Jesus did. Ministers of the gospel, preach Christ. Bring His heavenly grace into your lives and thoughts. Be truthful, and ever keep under the discipline of the Word of God. We must be saved in God’s appointed way. We must lean upon His counsel and unite in His works. A penitent heart is always sensitive. Teach every individual who claims to be a child of God, that a well-built character will always be after the divine pattern.
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 6)
“I will worship toward Thy holy temple, and praise Thy name for Thy lovingkindness and for Thy truth: for Thou hast magnified Thy truth above all Thy name. In the day that I cried Thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul. All the kings of the earth shall praise Thee, O Lord, when they hear the words of Thy mouth. Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord; for great is the glory of the Lord. Though the Lord be high, yet hath He respect unto the lowly: but the proud He knoweth afar off. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, Thou wilt revive me; Thou shalt stretch forth Thine hands against the wrath of Thine enemies, and Thy right hand shall save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth forever: forsake not the work of Thine own hands.” [Psalm 138:2-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 7)
I am bidden to say that all who wash their robes and make them white in the blood of the Lamb will have severe trials to meet. In trial we are to stand firm, seeking to honor the One who gave His precious life to redeem us. In our work we shall have to encounter a strong undercurrent of resistance. Genuine conversion, a renewed heart, will keep us sweet under trial and will teach us to reveal divine grace in our lives. Those who in the day of final reckoning receive from the lips of Christ the words of welcome to the city of God will be those who have stayed converted under trying circumstances. With prayer and watchfulness we are individually to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 8)
I have been referred by the Spirit of God to the many encouragements given to us in the Psalms. If more of our ministers were filled with soul-longings for God, His people would take hold of these encouragements, and thanksgiving and praise would flow from human lips. Encouragement and hope would come to many souls who are now weary and discouraged. If our people would realize the possibilities that lie in increased faith and prayer, there would be a decided change in our churches. Those who are now downcast and worried would be lifted up from their discouragement and would rejoice in the Lord. Brethren and sisters, let us show that we have a living hope, that our service is a living service.
(22LtMs, Lt 78, 1907, 9)
Lt 80, 1907
Members of the Australasian Churches St. Helena, California March 5, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in AUCR 04/29/1907.
To the members of the Australasian churches:
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 1)
I am charged with a message to our churches in Australasia: Without thorough purification of the life, without meekness and humbleness of mind, the professing followers of Christ cannot honor Him before the world. If the graces of Christ are not revealed in their lives, they can never be admitted to the heavenly mansions He has gone to prepare for those that love Him and keep His commandments.
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 2)
There are among our church members many who, while professing to walk in the ways of the Lord, are bringing into their profession the ways and habits of unconverted self, and these are spoiling their characters. So much that is frivolous is brought into the home and church life, that the Spirit of Christ is grieved. There are entire families among us who, unless they arouse from their sleepy indifference, will be lost; for they are not converted daily; they do not understand the divine science of true godliness; and therefore they are not vessels that the Master can use. They have allowed Satan to have the guidance and control of their words and actions, and they do not realize how much harm they have done to souls by their self-exaltation. They have hurt the heart of Christ by hurting those who are the purchase of His blood. I am bidden to say to these unconverted professors: Dig deep, and lay your foundation solidly upon the Rock Christ Jesus. It is not enough for us to talk of the higher life. Our daily course of action is to be an interpretation to others of what the higher life means.
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 3)
Unless painstaking efforts are made, every new revival will bring into the church converts whose conversion is a spurious one, who have a form of godliness without the power. Earnest educational work needs to be done for these souls, that they may know what it means to be a Christian; for unless the foundation is laid in faith and practice of the truth, storm and tempest, beating upon their house, will cause it to fall. The character of such is like a bowing wall and a tottering fence.
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 4)
I am impressed to urge upon our church members the need of building on Christ Jesus. A form of godliness without a true reformation is like a house built on a sandy foundation. Build upon Jesus Christ; He is the one sure foundation. “Other foundation can no man lay than is laid, which is Christ Jesus.” [1 Corinthians 3:11.] His strength of character is sufficient for you. In Christ, the Word of God gives you the right of way to every spiritual blessing; but it is a way of self-denial and self-sacrifice; it is a way of self-control and self-discipline. The character of Christ must become your character, His spirit, your spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 5)
Our ministering brethren need to arouse to their duty of impressing this truth on the minds of the people and to urge them to make sure work for eternity. The future, eternal life of each individual depends, not on words, not on profession, but on earnest works. We need to make decided efforts in order to keep the heart with all diligence, while looking to Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith. We need to watch over an unruly tongue; we need to watch for opportunities to do good as Jesus did. Ministers of the gospel, preach Christ. Bring His heavenly graces into your lives and thoughts. Be truthful, and ever keep under the discipline of the Word of God. We must be saved in God’s appointed way. We must lean upon His counsel and unite in His works. A penitent heart is always sensitive. Teach every individual who claims to be the child of God, that a well-built character will always be after the divine pattern.
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 6)
“I will worship toward Thy holy temple, and praise Thy name for Thy loving kindness and for Thy truth: for Thou hast magnified Thy truth above all Thy name. In the day that I cried Thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul. All the kings of the earth shall praise Thee, O Lord, when they hear the words of Thy mouth. Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord; for great is the glory of the Lord. Though the Lord be high, yet hath He respect unto the lowly: but the proud He knoweth afar off. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, Thou wilt revive me; Thou shalt stretch forth Thine hands against the wrath of Thine enemies, and Thy right hand shall save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth forever: forsake not the work of Thine own hands.” [Psalm 138:2-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 7)
I am bidden to say that all who wash their robes and make them white in the blood of the Lamb will have severe trials to meet. In trial we are to stand firm, seeking to honor the One who gave His precious life to redeem us. In our work we shall have to encounter a strong undercurrent of resistance. Genuine conversion, a renewed heart, will keep us sweet under trial and will teach us to reveal divine grace in our lives. Those who in the day of final reckoning receive from the lips of Christ the words of welcome to the city of God will be those who have stayed converted under trying circumstances. With prayer and watchfulness we are individually to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 8)
I have been referred by the Spirit of God to the many encouragements given to us in the Psalms. If more of our ministers were filled with soul-longings for God, His people would take hold of these encouragements, and thanks giving and praise would flow from human lips. Encouragements and hope would come to many souls who are now weary and discouraged. If our people would realize the possibilities that lie in increased faith and prayer, there would be a decided change in our churches. Those who are now downcast and worried would be lifted up from their discouragement and would rejoice in the Lord. Brethren and sisters, let us show that we have a living hope, that our service is a living service.
(22LtMs, Lt 80, 1907, 9)
Lt 82, 1907
Olsen, O. A. St. Helena, California March 5, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in UL 78. Elder O. A. Olsen “Elsnath”
Strathfield, N.S.W. Dear Brother Olsen:
The Lord is good, and greatly to be praised.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 1)
Two nights ago, I had a remarkable experience. A company of our workers was assembled in meeting, and all that passed was of the deepest interest. A Messenger from heaven stood in our midst, and the words He spoke were words of instruction and warning. Light was being shed upon us; instruction was given regarding the small effort that is being made to circulate our literature.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 2)
I have been repeatedly shown that our presses should now be employed in publishing light and truth. This is a time of spiritual darkness in the churches of the world. Ignorance of divine things has hidden God and the truth from view. The forces of Satan are gathering strength. Satan flatters his co-workers that he will do a work to captivate the world. While partial inactivity has come upon the church, Satan is not inactive. The professed Christian churches are not converting the world; for they are themselves corrupted with selfishness and pride and need to feel the converting power of God in their own hearts before they can lead others to a purer or higher standard.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 3)
Elder Olsen, be of good courage; the Lord Jehovah is our strength and our sufficiency. The Lord is our God, and we can be strong in His strength. We need to be fully awake at this time.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 4)
My brother, it is not wise for you to continue to carry your many heavy burdens without periods of rest. In your work of public speaking, be careful not to protract the meetings, speaking so long that you become overwearied.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 5)
The Word of God possesses healing virtue. It is more powerful than the mandates of princes, more enduring than the laws of dynasties, and will move silently, but surely and powerfully, from victory to victory, turning obstacles into impulses and obstructions into facilities. The glory of kingdoms is to be given to the saints of the Most High. “To those who look for Him will He appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” [Hebrews 9:28.]
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 6)
Our citizenship is in heaven. We are not to conform to the world in our speech or in its spirit of repining. We look for a city that hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. We are looking for our Lord to come, and we must be preparing for the glorious jubilee that will begin when we enter the gates of the city of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 7)
Our work must go in the demonstration and power of the Spirit. The Lord has much of the Holy Spirit awaiting our demand. “The kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” [Romans 14:17.] As a people who are doing a special work for this time, we are now to manifest a faith that will have a convincing power.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 8)
The twenty-first chapter of Matthew, telling of the journey of Christ to Jerusalem at the time of His triumphal entry, is a powerful chapter and one that we need to study and understand. We need to take warning from the lesson of the pretentious fig tree that bore no fruit; it represents those who profess to serve God, whose names are on the church books, but who bear no fruit in their lives to the glory of God. O my heart is longing to see the Man who was despised and rejected, crowned and seated upon His throne.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 9)
Last Sabbath night, March 2, I heard the voice of One giving instruction. He said, “Whoso eateth My flesh and drinketh My blood hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:54.] “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life.” [John 4:14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 10)
Through the agency of the Holy Spirit, God works a moral change in the lives of His people, changing them into the likeness of Christ. Then, when the last trumpet call shall reach the ears of the dead who sleep in Christ, they will come forth to a new life, clothed with the garments of salvation. They enter in through the gates into the city of God, welcomed to the happiness and joy of their Lord. Would that we all could understand and ever keep in mind the joys that await those who keep their eyes on the pattern Christ Jesus and in this life seek to form a character like His.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 11)
The Word of God contains our life insurance policy. To eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God means to study the Word and to carry that Word into the life in obedience to all its precepts. Those who thus partake of the Son of God become partakers of the divine nature—one with Christ. They breathe a holy atmosphere, in which only the soul can truly live. They carry in their lives an assurance of the holy principles received from the Word: their lives are worked by the power of the Holy Spirit, and they have an earnest of the immortality that will be theirs through the death and resurrection of Christ. Should the earthly body decay, the principles of their faith sustain them; for they are partakers of the divine nature. Because Christ was raised from the dead, they grasp the pledge of their resurrection, and eternal life is their reward.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 12)
This truth is an eternal truth, because Christ Himself taught it. He has engaged to raise the righteous dead; for He gave His life for the life of the world. “As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me.”“I am the bread of life; he that cometh unto Me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.... All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me; and he that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” [John 6:57, 35, 37.]
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 13)
“I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any man eat of this bread he shall live forever; and the bread which I give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us His flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead; he that eateth of this bread shall live forever.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 14)
“These things said He in the synagogue, as He taught in Capernaum. Many therefore of His disciples, when they heard this, said, This is an hard saying, Who can hear it? When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples murmured at it, He said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where He was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who believed not, and who should betray Him. And He said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto Me, except it were given him of My Father.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 15)
“From that time many of His disciples went back, and walked no more with Him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered Him, Lord, to whom should we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that Thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus said unto him, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil? He spake of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray Him, being one of the twelve.” [Verses 51-71.]
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 16)
We see in this experience among the disciples of Christ the explanation of His words. The words of Christ, received into the life, will form a character like the character of Christ. The words of Christ are to be carefully studied and obeyed. A test is surely coming to every soul. Those who are willing to be partakers of Christ’s trials, who will obey the Word and refuse to yield the truth under any temptation—let the consequences be what they may—will have to daily partake of the truth of the Word. The life of Christ is to be our example. We are to walk as He walked, and work as He worked, believing that whatever of suffering we may be called to pass through, as His followers, He is able to deliver us from it. We are to be made perfect by holding our faith and confidence firm unto the end. Thus we shall magnify the truth and through our faith gain eternal life in the kingdom of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 82, 1907, 17)
Lt 84, 1907
Kress, D. H. St. Helena, California March 5, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dr. D. H. Kress
Wahroonga, N.S.W. Dear Brother and Sister Kress:
I received your letters, and would say that I am somewhat disappointed that your coming to America is delayed. We did hope that the way would be open for you to come at once. But the Lord understands the situation; and we know that you will be instructed by the One who has been your Counsellor for so many years. Do not feel confused or perplexed. We will expect you to come when the way opens. There is one thing of which I am convinced, and that is that we need to trust far more in the counsel of the Lord than we do.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 1)
We have been receiving precious light from the Lord. The fourteenth to the seventeenth chapters of John contain precious instruction for our churches at this time. Christ was about to close His work on earth and return to His Father. He had told His disciples that He was about to leave them, and He understood their feelings at the thought that they were to lose their beloved Master. The bitterest cup His humanity must drink is about to be held to His lips; and He knows the result to them as well as to Himself. His three years of labor for His disciples had been to prepare them for the trials that were soon to open before them. Forgetting Himself and His suffering, He seeks to comfort His sorrowing disciples.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 2)
“Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. I am the brightness of the Father’s glory, the manifestation of His love, the channel by which His mercy comes to you, and by which your prayers rise to Him. In My Father’s house are many mansions.” [John 14:1, 2.]
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 3)
The word here translated mansion means permanent abodes, habitations that are not removed like tents, but which permanently endure for the family of the redeemed. The Father is there, to gather His children in His paternal arms, and bestow upon them His everlasting love.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 4)
“In My Father’s house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you; I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 5)
“Thomas saith unto Him, We know not whither Thou goest, and how can we know the way?” [Verses 2-5.] We have reason to be thankful that this question was asked and answered. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. If ye had known Me, ye should have known My Father also; and from henceforth ye have known Him, and have seen Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 6)
“Philip saith unto Him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of Myself; but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works. Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me; or else believe Me for the very works’ sake. Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto the Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in My name, I will do it. If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” [Verses 6-15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 7)
These last words of the Saviour are to be treasured by us: “During these years I have been with you, I have taught you the will of the Father. For your sake I go to heaven—to do a special work for the accomplishment of your salvation. If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” Who will give this proof of his love? These chapters present the great blessings that will come to those who believe in Christ. I urge upon all who profess to believe the truth to strive to understand the fulness of these promises, and to surrender to the claims of Jesus Christ, giving the heart fully and unreservedly to Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 8)
“If I go away,” Christ says, “I will come again.” [Verse 3.] “I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more; but ye see Me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in the Father, and ye in Me and I in you. He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself unto him.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 9)
“Judas saith unto Him, [not Iscariot,] Lord, how is it that Thou will manifest Thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man will love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings: and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father’s which sent Me. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.... Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” [Verses 18-27.]
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 10)
That Christ should express Himself so fully and decidedly just before His great humiliation impresses me strongly. He was about to be rejected and crucified by His own people, yet He turns from the thought of His own humiliation and suffering to pour into the hearts of His disciples words of sweetest comfort. There is comfort for us also in His words—comfort and stimulation. Shall we not, as we read these chapters, shake off our sleepy indifference and rouse ourselves to work in behalf of our own souls and the souls of those who do not understand what these words imply? Shall we not take hold of this instruction by living faith and use it to enlighten the minds and hearts of those who know not the value of the words of truth?
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 11)
The new heart, the new heart is what is needed in Australia as in America. It is our duty to seek out those who have it not and explain to them the Word of God. In our sanitariums and schools, let the binding claims of the law of God be taught. Place reading matter on the subjects of present truth in the hands of as many as you can reach, that the truth may go forth as a lamp that burneth. Souls are perishing without a knowledge of the requirements of God. The Lord is waiting to give them light on His Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 12)
Those who profess to believe the truth for these last days must work to build strong characters. If we will renounce the world, and make diligent work for eternity, it is our privilege to have a beautiful life that will be effective in winning souls to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 13)
The different workers in the cause of God have not the same work to do, but it is their privilege to blend in their work. Together they are to form God’s building, each one filling his place in the structure that God designs him to occupy. When the workers seek to fulfil the prayer of Christ for unity, there will be seen a growth in grace that will fit them for a place in the eternal world.
(22LtMs, Lt 84, 1907, 14)
Lt 86, 1907
Churches in the Large Cities St. Helena, California March 4, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in UL 77; TDG 72; WM 161-162.
Our Duties and Perils
To our churches in the large cities:
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 1)
We have a large work to do for the year 1907. God’s Word teaches that those who will follow the footsteps of the Man of Calvary in these last days will have to press forward under the greatest difficulties; for Satan has come down with great power, knowing that he has but a short time to work.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 2)
In the past, the servants of God who held the truth in its purity suffered to maintain that purity. Prophets who were sent to bear a decided testimony against the cruel workings of satanic agencies, ministers sent to do a special work and give a special message, were assailed and imprisoned. Under the deceptive influence of satanic agencies, men invented all manner of cruelties to make them yield their faith; and many died under the persecution they suffered. In every age God’s people have had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 3)
He whom the Father gave to the world to be its Light—He who led the armies of Israel to their possession in the land of Canaan—was rejected and persecuted by the people who professed to know God’s will. The light shone amid the darkness, but the darkness comprehended it not.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 4)
Christ had been the leader of ancient Israel, guiding them by a cloud in the day, that light and heat should not oppress them, and at night by a cloud lighted by the brightness of His presence. But when “He came unto His own, His own received Him not.” [John 1:11.] They were absorbed in their study of forms and symbols and were walking in the ways of their own choosing. They would not be reformed by the messages from heaven, nor heed the counsel and admonitions of God. They crucified the Lord of glory, taunting Him as He hung dying upon the cross, “Let Him come down from the cross, and we will believe Him.”“He saved others; Himself He cannot save.” [Matthew 27:42.]
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 5)
Enmity between truth and falsehood has existed ever since the fall of Satan. The being who now works so constantly to sow the seeds of error once occupied one of the most exalted positions in the heavenly courts. But he was not satisfied with his position. He determined to be more highly exalted, and he worked to further his ambitious projects until there was war in heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 6)
Satan, and those whom he had deceived, and who fought with him, were cast out of heaven; but the warfare has been continued on the earth. In every age Satan has worked through men who have departed from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and teaching deceptive doctrines and principles of satanic origin. Christ taught His disciples how to meet the deceptive work of Satan and his followers. Under a variety of symbols, the Saviour presented the work of extending His kingdom of truth and righteousness throughout the world. It is by teaching the truth that we are to defeat the purposes of Satan.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 7)
Christ illustrated this work in the parable of the sower. “Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower,” He said; “when anyone heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he that received seed by the wayside. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth, because of the word, by and by he is offended. He also that received the seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. But he that received seed into the good ground, is he that heareth the word and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty.” [Matthew 13:18-23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 8)
The teacher of sacred truth can impart that only which he knows by experience. “The sower sowed his seed.” [Luke 8:5.] Christ taught the truth because He was the truth. His own thought, His character, His life experience were embodied in His teaching. So with His servants: those who would teach the Word are to make it their own by a personal experience. They must know what it means to have Christ made unto them wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. In presenting the Word of God to others, they are not to make it a suppose-so or a may-be. They should declare with the apostle Peter, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of His majesty.” [2 Peter 1:16.] Every minister of Christ should be able to say with the beloved John, “The life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.” [1 John 1:2.]
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 9)
“Another parable put He forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: but while he slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst thou not sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? And he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest, I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them; but gather the wheat into my barn.” [Matthew 13:24-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 10)
The teaching of this parable is illustrated in God’s own dealing with men and angels. Satan is a deceiver. When he sinned in heaven, even the loyal angels did not fully discern his character. This was why God did not at once destroy Satan. Had He done so, the holy angels would not have perceived the justice and love of God. A doubt of God’s goodness would have been as evil seed, that would yield the bitter fruit of sin and woe. Therefore the author of evil was spared, fully to develop his character.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 11)
Through long ages God has borne the anguish of beholding the work of evil. He has given the infinite Gift of Calvary, rather than let any be deceived by the misrepresentations of the wicked one; for the tares could not be plucked up without danger of uprooting the precious grain. And shall we not be as forbearing toward our fellow men as the Lord of heaven is toward Satan?
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 12)
Not condemnation and judgment of others, but humility and distrust of self is the teaching of Christ’s parable. Not all that is sown in the field is good grain. The fact that men are in the church does not prove them Christians. The tares closely resembled the wheat while the blades were green; but when the field was white to the harvest, the worthless weeds bore no likeness to the wheat that bowed under the weight of its full, ripe heads. Sinners who make a pretension of piety mingle for a time with the true followers of Christ, and the semblance of Christianity is calculated to deceive many; but in the harvest of the world, there will be no likeness between good and evil. Then those who have joined the church, but have not joined Christ, will be manifest.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 13)
“Another parable spake He unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took and hid in thee measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. All these things spake Jesus unto them in parables; and without a parable spake He not unto them. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet saying, I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.” [Verses 33-35.]
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 14)
The parables of Christ are educating in their nature, and we need to study them until we know their meaning. The leaven hidden in the meal represents the work of God’s messengers in carrying the gospel to places where it is not known. Leaven is all-pervading and powerful in its influence. Though silent and hidden, it works until it affects the whole mass. It is a symbol of the truth, and the parable was spoken that we might understand what a power divine truth may be in its influence on individuals and communities.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 15)
The Lord has presented before me the work that is to be done in our cities. The believers in these cities can work for God in the neighborhood of their homes. They are to labor quietly and in humility, carrying with them wherever they go the atmosphere of heaven. If they keep self out of sight, pointing always to Christ, the power of their influence will be felt.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 16)
It is not the Lord’s purpose that ministers should be left to do the greatest part of the work of sowing the seeds of truth. Men who are not called to the ministry are to labor for their Master according to their several ability. As a worker gives himself unreservedly to the service of the Lord, he gains an experience that enables him to work more and more successfully for the Master. The influence that drew him to Christ helps him to draw others to Christ. The work of a public speaker may never be laid upon him, but he is nonetheless a minister for God; and his work testifies that he is born of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 17)
Women as well as men can engage in the work of hiding the truth where it can work out and be made manifest. They can take their places in the work at this crisis, and the Lord will work through them. If they are imbued with a sense of their duty, and labor under the influence of the Spirit of God, they will have just the self-possession required for this time. The Saviour will reflect upon these self-sacrificing women the light of His countenance, and this will give them a power that will exceed that of men. They can do in families a work that men cannot do, a work that reaches the inner life. They can come close to the hearts of those whom men cannot reach. Their work is needed. Discreet and humble women can do a good work in explaining the truth to the people in their homes. The Word of God thus explained will begin its leavening work, and through its influence whole families will be converted to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 18)
In Christ’s day, the truths and the evidences of truth that He presented did not convert the many. His wonderful miracles were made of none effect to the majority by the work of the priests and rulers—those who professed to believe in a coming Messiah. When He raised Lazarus from the dead, they sought to put Lazarus also to death, lest his testimony to the power of Christ should convince the people that this was the Messiah. An increasing hardness of heart overcame all their convictions; unbelief became stronger and stronger; and when such light and evidence was given that they could not fail to discern His divinity, they determined to kill Him and be rid of Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 19)
In our day we meet those who, while claiming to believe the truth, do not conform their lives to its teachings. They are not converted. There are among us ministers and physicians who connive at wrongdoing and by their influence lead others to join them in their course of unbelief. All the evidence that God has given loses force with them. They do not choose to give up their way for God’s way. They link together to do their own will, to follow their own devisings, and to lift up their soul unto vanity. God asks these souls, “What shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.]
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 20)
A supreme desire to follow one’s own way will destroy all the saving efficacy of the truth for the conversion of the soul. Our only safe plan is to give up our devotion to self and self-interests and accept the way and will of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 21)
Means are provided by which temptation may be resisted and overcome. The Word of God is an educating power. My brethren and sisters, Gain a knowledge of the Word, and learn why God would have you resist temptation. The promises of God are Yea and Amen in Christ Jesus. He is faithful that hath promised. He will not suffer any obedient soul to seek His help in vain. He knows how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and He will effectually restrain the power of the enemy that may come upon us through human agencies.
(22LtMs, Lt 86, 1907, 22)
Lt 88, 1907
Our People in Washington, D. C. St. Helena, California March 4, 1907 Previously unpublished. To our people in Washington, D.C.:
A thorough work is to be done in Washington, D.C. The time is long past that should have seen this field faithfully worked. This last message of warning must be carried to those who need the truth. Men of God who have this message in their hearts should be chosen to carry it to people of Washington and neighboring towns. One of authority was represented to me as standing before our people and pleading that workers be sent to Washington, and I was instructed to urge this subject upon the minds of our laborers.
(22LtMs, Lt 88, 1907, 1)
Brethren and Sisters, God has given to every man his work. He calls upon church members in every place to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to His service. Let us go forth and present the truth to souls who are starving for the bread of life. We must come into line. Then, “pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:38.] These words teach us how the field is to be supplied with workers who will labor for the salvation of souls. When the precepts and example of Christ are brought into the life practice, when church members, instead of gossiping and accusing one another, confess their sins to one another and offer up prayer to God, God will graciously manifest His power through them.
(22LtMs, Lt 88, 1907, 2)
It is no time now to establish large restaurants at great expense; but in every possible way humble efforts should be made to win souls to the truth. The third angel’s message is to be proclaimed all through the suburbs of Washington. The people living in these suburbs are precious to God. A special work should also be done in this city in the establishing of schools, that the people may be educated along Christian lines.
(22LtMs, Lt 88, 1907, 3)
Lt 90, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma St. Helena, California March 10, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 51; 5MR 111, 282. + Edson and Emma White
Nashville, Tennessee Dear Children:
I was hoping to see you both soon, but this does not seem possible now. I do not feel that it would be best to urge you to come, because the Lord is to be consulted in all our affairs. He knows what is best for us. We are His property, bought with the price of the blood of His precious Son. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 1)
I have a work to do in the South as soon as I can get off certain writings. Often I am up at four o’clock in the morning, sometimes at three, and sometimes at two. My left eye is troubling me, and I know that I will have to give it more rest.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 2)
The goodness of the Lord to me is very great. I praise His name that my mind is clear on Bible subjects. The Spirit of God works upon my mind and gives me appropriate words with which to express the truth. I am also greatly strengthened when I stand before large congregations. I will not distrust the Lord, but will hang my helpless soul on Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 3)
I see a great work to be done by our people. I am studying how we can make a success of the sale of the books Christ’s Object Lessons, and Ministry of Healing. In order to fill the mission to which these books were dedicated, they should be in constant circulation. Also the book Education should be widely read. It should be regarded as a treasure given by God to help His people in this crisis in their history. These books have already been a great blessing; but with judicious, persevering effort, they can be made to do a still greater work. I am troubled on every side, but I know the Lord will sustain me and make me trustful in Him who can fulfil all our desires. In the night I have many wakeful hours, which I spend in review and prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 4)
Some time ago I received a message from Elder Haskell, saying that a room was prepared for me in the house that stands on the lot of ground which the Oakland brethren have bought for their church building. This piece of land is high and dry and is not surrounded by any very large and expensive buildings. I trust that our brethren will build a humble house of worship in Oakland, for we have every reason to believe from the present record of San Francisco’s crimes, and of the murders and robberies that are being committed in Oakland, that another visitation will come to San Francisco, and that calamity will fall on Oakland also.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 5)
In San Francisco, plans are being laid to build larger and more costly buildings than have ever stood in that city. Though several earthquake shocks have been felt, these warnings are being disregarded by many. “We will have,” say they, “such buildings as we have never had before, larger and more magnificent.” Christ says, “When they shall say, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them, ... and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Every kind of wickedness continues to be practiced in San Francisco, and Oakland is fast becoming a undesirable to place in which to live. The record of dishonesty and conniving and vileness that has resulted from the investigation into the cases of men holding official positions, and which has been opened before all through the courts, should certainly open blind eyes and lead us to inquire, Whom can we trust? Where can we find men of honor? As these evils are being revealed, even the worldling can see that corruption is filling the earth as it did in the time of Noah, and for which God had then to destroy the world by a flood. But instead of calling these men to repentance, the revelations are turning the office holders one against another, and they are exposing to the world every species of crime in the lives of judges and jurors and senators alike. Satan is at work to corrupt with his deceiving policies the rulers and the people. This work will be carried on from city to city until the guilt of the whole world will be manifest, and it will be plainly seen why God permits His judgments to fall on the earth. They will come because of the pride of heart, the falsehood, the dishonesty, the profanity that is manifest. The Lord will come out of His place to punish the earth for her iniquity; the earth shall disclose her blood and shall no more cover her slain.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 6)
God has designed that these revelations should be made, that those who read the accounts of them may understand that men’s sins have reached unto heaven, and that the time is surely near when God will blot out iniquity from the earth. May the Lord help me at this time of awful judgments to make my calling and election sure, to put on the wedding garment, that when He comes I may be found without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 7)
While this work of investigation has been going forward, I have been able to bear my testimony in San Francisco and Oakland. I spoke in the Oakland church four times. Each time I had an attentive audience, and at one of our meetings we had a baptismal service. At the back of the pulpit in this church is a baptistry, separated from the church by sliding panels. When these panels were thrown back, the whole congregation could witness the baptismal service without moving from their seats.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 8)
The meetinghouse in San Francisco which your father and I, with Brother Chittenden and a few others, were instrumental in building was only slightly damaged by the earthquake. The chimneys fell and some of the plaster was broken from the walls. I had an opportunity to speak in that house, and I was very thankful for this. We think now that this building will be sold, for Van Ness Avenue is being crowded with saloons. The house, as you know, is a very commodious one, and comfortably seated, but it is poorly ventilated. The blessing of the Lord rested upon me as I spoke to the people here. My advice to those in San Francisco who are planning to dispose of this church would be to build two meetinghouses, simple and plain, for those who are obliged to live in San Francisco. As little money as possible should be invested in these buildings, for the judgments of God will surely fall again on this wicked and corrupt city.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 9)
Every moment of time is precious now—too precious to be trifled away. I pray that I may make no mistakes. I desire that my life shall be in harmony with the One who laid aside His glory and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might bring righteousness and judgment and peace to the human family by teaching men how to live a life of obedience to God and to lay hold of the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. I pray that my life may be hid with Christ in God, that when Christ who is my life may appear, I shall appear with Him in glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 10)
O what a work is before us in warning the world of Christ’s soon return. I cannot sleep for thinking of the men who suppose they are ready for Christ’s return, but who are unprepared to meet Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 11)
I have been instructed not to perplex my mind over a multiplicity of wrongs that I cannot make right, but to keep my testimony clear and decided along lines that will lead men to live clean, true lives, and to be in earnest in following every precept of the great Teacher. This instruction is of value to you also. It is not your duty to try to lift every burden that may be crowded upon you. Those who come to you to know their duty, bid them go to the Lord Jesus, and ask of Him wisdom, and receive His grace. If you undertake to counsel and guide others, and your judgment does not meet the mind and judgment of those who seek your help, they will be tempted to think you have made a mistake. Bid all carry their burdens and questions to the Lord. He is the only One who can unerringly guide human souls. “Let them come to Me in faith,” He says, “and I will instruct them.”
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 12)
The infinite Son of God has paid with His own life the ransom price for human souls. O how earnestly should we work that He shall not have died in vain. I will do the work He has given me to do, for am I not His purchased possession? I will labor with heart and soul, with pen and voice, to point souls to the narrow path. Truth will bear away the victory. I dare not miss my chance. I will labor on the right hand and on the left. I will sow beside all waters, not knowing which shall prosper, this or that. We each need a living union with Christ; we are not safe unless our souls are knit to His.
(22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, 13)
Lt 92, 1907
White, J. E. Refiled as Lt 27, 1906.
Lt 94, 1907
Workers in the Boulder Sanitarium St. Helena, California March 14, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in UL 87.
To the workers in the Boulder Sanitarium:
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 1)
In the night season the Lord has given me counsel concerning the work in the Boulder Sanitarium. I am instructed to say to the workers in that institution: Come into close and sacred communion with God. There are some in connection with the work of the sanitarium who greatly need the refining, sanctifying grace of God to work on mind and character. Every worker should now consecrate himself to the work of God and carry out in his daily life the principles of the Word of God. My brethren and sisters, put away from you those peculiar traits of character that cause you to be easily disturbed, and be cleansed and purified. Die to self, and let Christ live in you. Walk humbly with God, and let correct principles mark your lives.
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 2)
The lessons of God’s Word are comprehensive and are adapted to instruct in every perplexity that could possibly arise in any institution where the workers are seeking to carry out the principles of Christian living. Let the Word be your guide, your rule of conduct. It will teach you refined manners, godly conduct, and unerring judgment. Study the Word. When you are in perplexity, search the Word for instruction that is suited to your case. Seek the Lord for guidance. Never entertain that which the Lord forbids in His Word; and that which His Word requires, ever seek to do. “Search the scriptures, for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.]
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 3)
Christ came to establish reforms and to draw all men unto Him. His will is to be done in earth as it is in heaven. When you have determined what reforms need to be carried out, labor with persevering, fearless courage to that end. Do not expect to carry out the pure, uplifting principles of true reform without meeting opposition. God’s Word plainly teaches that all who will live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution from those who seek to tear down what God declares to be truth and righteousness. The Lord will greatly bless those workers who will fully carry out the principles of Christian living, for the promulgation of which the Boulder Sanitarium was established.
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 4)
There is no action of our lives in which God is not concerned, no interest which is not precious in His sight. “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world,” He declares. [Matthew 28:20.] God is the shield and buckler of His people. He spreads His hands above His trusting children, and no one can wound a child of His without smiting the hand of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 5)
God is also the Guardian of justice and mercy. He regards the way in which we treat our fellow workers. We cannot hide from Him the smallest act that affects the rights of one of His heritage. He will vindicate His righteousness before all who would take advantage of or wrong a fellow being; He discerns the motive that prompts to every action. In the workings of His institutions, He sees through every devising, and He will send light and knowledge to those who now feel free to follow the devisings of their own minds. As the professed followers of One who is the guardian of truth and righteousness, you are to hold the truth in its purity. In every act of the daily life, you are to reveal a strict sense of right and justice.
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 6)
God will call to account those who have tried to supplant the work of the Boulder Sanitarium. The Lord signified that this institution should be conducted upon principles of strictest integrity and should be made a success. He has plainly distinguished between the right and the wrong in the step that has been taken, between those who have discarded the instruction of the Lord, and those who have faithfully striven to follow the light. He now calls upon you who are carrying on the work of the first established institution to stand in your lot and place, with “God and the right” for your watchword. No conniving, no dishonesty is to mark the work. You are to stand upon the high platform of justice and truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 7)
Let your lives be controlled by the principles of righteousness and truth. Say not a word against those who refuse the counsel of God, unless it be in vindication of the truth. If you work faithfully and intelligently, trusting in the Lord, you will have trials to bear; but do not create trails for yourselves. Your safety lies in maintaining godliness in the daily life, in living with a pure purpose, in making your business a subject of constant prayer, and in seeking the Lord with sanctified purpose for guidance, restraint, and support.
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 8)
Physicians, nurses, helpers, the Lord calls upon you each to make a covenant with Him at every step. Consecrate yourselves to the work, and bring the principles of the truth into faithful service. Then in the day of final reckoning you will hear the words from the lips of the Master, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful in a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of the Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 94, 1907, 9)
Lt 96, 1907
Haskell, S. N. St. Helena, California March 6, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder S. N. Haskell
Box 534
Oakland, California Dear Brother:
I have a deep interest in the work now going forward in Oakland. I rejoice in every move which will strengthen the work in Oakland and Berkeley. I have thought some of coming to Oakland next Sabbath; but the weather is unfavorable, and I have been overtaxed, and I do not think it would be wisdom for me to come down, though I would like to meet you again before you go South.
(22LtMs, Lt 96, 1907, 1)
Regarding the selection of officers for the Berkeley church. There is need of a decided change and that a different element be brought in to take the leadership of that important church.
(22LtMs, Lt 96, 1907, 2)
You ought not to leave Oakland until the Berkeley church has chosen its officers. I am satisfied that the time has now come for the church to take action in this matter. I feel confident that the Lord will guide you in giving wise counsel to this church; and I pray that He will give wisdom to the church in the selection of elders and deacons for the coming year, and in the choice of competent persons to fill all the positions of responsibility.
(22LtMs, Lt 96, 1907, 3)
Considering the importance of the work in Berkeley, and the experience which the church has passed through, I suggest to you and through you to the church that they choose some man of experience in the work to be associated with the best man of their own number, to act as elders together. If some person in the conference employ, a man of sound judgment, like Elder Brorsen, could be secured to act as one of the elders, I think it would be well.
(22LtMs, Lt 96, 1907, 4)
Please talk this matter over with the leading members of the Berkeley church, and with Elder Brorsen, and make some such arrangement as this if possible.
(22LtMs, Lt 96, 1907, 5)
Lt 98, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California March 15, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3BC 1134. Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I had hoped to see you again before you leave California, but this week I have been sick and have not dared to leave my home.
(22LtMs, Lt 98, 1907, 1)
I have been writing on the subjects of Old Testament history. I have now nearly completed the book of Ezra. It has been a very interesting task to sketch the history of this remarkable man. The Lord raised up Ezra to be His servant. He moved upon the heart of the king, so that Ezra found favor with him. The king placed in his hands abundant means for the rebuilding of the temple and made it possible for the Jews to return, who for seventy years had been in captivity in Babylon. In thus giving to His people another opportunity to serve God in their own country, the Lord shows His forbearance with His wayward children.
(22LtMs, Lt 98, 1907, 2)
Elder Cottrell was here yesterday, and we had a quiet talk together.
(22LtMs, Lt 98, 1907, 3)
All parts of the Southern California need especial help, and we think that Riverside and Redlands should have a share in the help of our laborers. I am sorry that you are to leave when it seems that the work could be most favorably carried on in this part of the state. I trust that the work will be carried forward in right lines, and according to the Lord’s appointment. I am not discouraged, and I pray that the Lord will direct us in the right way.
(22LtMs, Lt 98, 1907, 4)
We have had much rainy weather, but it has not been cold until the past few days.
(22LtMs, Lt 98, 1907, 5)
Write to me again as to how you find matters in Southern California. I wish there were no need for you to go to the eastern states; but let the Lord direct your ways.
(22LtMs, Lt 98, 1907, 6)
I have written in much haste. With love to you, my fellow laborers.
(22LtMs, Lt 98, 1907, 7)
Lt 100, 1907
Campbell, M. N. St. Helena, California March 13, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3BC 1134; CTr 185. + M. N. Campbell
12 Graves Avenue
Battle Creek, Michigan Dear Brother:
I have had the privilege of reading your letter to W. C. White, and I was much interested in its contents.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 1)
For some time I have been writing on the subjects of Old Testament history. I have now nearly completed the book of Ezra. I have been encouraged as I have studied the experiences of this remarkable man. I am now writing on the seventh chapter, which deals with the time when the king’s decree went forth, that permitted Ezra to go up from Babylon and take with him the help he needed for the work to be accomplished in Jerusalem. Please read this chapter.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 2)
“This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he was a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the Lord God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the Lord his God upon him. And there went up some of the children of Israel, and of the singers, and of the priests and of the Levites, and the porters, ... And he came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh year of the king. For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him. For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.” [Verses 6-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 3)
Ezra was of the sons of Aaron, a priest, whom God chose to be an instrument of good unto Israel, that he might put honor upon the priesthood, the glory of which had been greatly eclipsed during the captivity. Ezra was a man of great piety and holy zeal. He was also a man of learning and a ready scribe in the law of Moses. These qualifications made him an eminent man.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 4)
Ezra was impressed by the Spirit of God to search the historical and poetical books of the Bible, and by this means he became familiar with the sense and understanding of the law. During the captivity the knowledge of God’s will had to some extent been lost. Ezra gathered all the copies of the law that he could find. He published copies of these among God’s people and became a teacher of the law and the prophecies in the schools of the prophets. The pure Word, thus diligently taught by Ezra, gave knowledge that was invaluable at that time.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 5)
Ezra was a man of piety and holy zeal, because the truth was a sanctifying power in his soul. With earnestness he prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord. Some of the prophecies were about to be fulfilled; he would search diligently for the light that had been obscured. He sought this knowledge that he might educate the people how to bring into their practical life the principles of the Word of God. He made it his business to inquire into the matter diligently, that he might exert an influence in accordance with the expressed will of God, binding heart and mind and will in obedience to that Word. He felt that for himself he must do the will of the Lord; for only as he brought his own mind into harmony with truth could he be taught how to labor, how to come into harmony with the Word of God. He made it a rule to yield his mind and will and sentiments to the mind and will of God, thus bringing into his life sanctifying principles that molded the minds of the youth who learned of him, and of all who associated with him, desirous of being taught the laws of heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 6)
That which Ezra knew he desired to teach others, and thus he became a mouthpiece for God, educating those about him in the holy principles that govern in heaven. To live according to the commandments of God—that was the rule of his life, his purpose. He first learned, and then he taught. He learned to conduct his own life according to truth and righteousness; then he set himself to teach Israel the statutes and judgments of God. That which he had learned of truth he communicated to others, that the same saving influence might work in their lives. Teaching thus he educated his fellow men in the knowledge of truth that would live through eternal ages.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 7)
Ezra’s life, like the life of Christ, sowed the seeds of truth in a revelation of the pure principles that can save the soul. Far happier would professing Christians be today if they would in the same way reflect the light of heaven upon the pathway of others, teaching in the life the statutes and judgments that rule in the heavenly courts. As Ezra labored to communicate what he had learned, his capabilities for labor increased and developed. He became the Lord’s witness to the world of what Bible truth is, revealed in the daily life of the receiver.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 8)
Ezra’s example, in words and deeds, carried with it a weight of influence; for the Spirit of God was with him. He took pains with his studies. He diligently prepared his heart to do the work that he believed was appointed him. He searched out the words that had been written concerning the duties of God’s denominated people, and he found a solemn pledge that man had given that he would obey the words of God and the pledge of God’s blessing to the obedient. He searched for all those statements in history which relate to the giving of the law on Mt. Sinai, and for those that referred to the law written in books, and which were to be carefully preserved as the commands of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 9)
The laws contained in books were not a new revelation, but the former laws repeated and commented upon. Before Moses was separated from the children of Israel, and went at the command of God to die in the land of Moab, the laws that were formerly given were repeated and enlarged upon. Some methods of enforcing them were given; some precepts were explained, and the reason given for them. Upon several occasions the judgments of God had fallen on transgressors, and commands that had been transgressed were repeated to give force to the requirements of God. Transgressors were to know assuredly that disobedience would surely bring the punishment of God. In this his last work for the people of God, Moses was as truly recording the mandates of heaven as when he received the ten commandments written on tables of stone, when God’s presence was visibly manifested, and Mt. Horeb trembled and cast forth fire and smoke. The commandments written in books were the words of God to the people as truly as were the words He spoke with an audible voice from Mt. Sinai.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 10)
I ask you to study the life of Ezra, and learn to serve the Lord with heart and mind and strength. We each have an appointed work to do, and this can only be accomplished by consecrated effort. Shall we let the example of Ezra address itself to us individually, and teach us the use we should make of our knowledge of the Scriptures? We need to set ourselves first to know the requirements of God, and then to practice them. Then we can sow the seeds of truth that will bear fruit unto eternal life.
(22LtMs, Lt 100, 1907, 11)
Lt 102, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California March 17, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 252-254. + Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I have reason to be very thankful to God that He graciously spared my life to act a part in the important meetings in Oakland and San Francisco. I thank Him that He gave me strength and freedom. Although infirmities have been upon me, I have been sustained and greatly blessed. The great Physician has been my Helper, and to His name be the glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 1)
In my eightieth year, I can go up and down stairs as easily as any of my workers. I build my own fires in the morning, lifting the heavy pieces of wood myself. Then I begin my work of writing. I have sometimes feared that I would have to give up my habit of early rising; but this is my most precious time for seeking the Lord’s help and counsel. In these early hours I have a most sacred sense of the presence of my Saviour. My mind is clear, and faith and hope are suggested by One who is a present help in every time of need. O how I should miss these precious hours spent alone with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 2)
Every winter for years I have suffered from rheumatic pains, but only once or twice this winter have I felt any approach of them. I have never enjoyed a winter so free from pain. I praise the Lord with heart and soul and voice for His wonderful keeping power. Verily, the good hand of my God has been upon me.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 3)
That which I appreciate above every other thing is the freedom which is given me in writing and speaking. Sometimes, when necessity required haste, I have written between three o’clock and breakfast time as many as fifteen pages of manuscript. Recently I have written considerable on subjects of Old Testament history, and also important matter that has been given me in regard to the special work that must be done at this time.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 4)
I have not responded to every call that has come for me to visit different places, because such constant journeying as this would require breaks upon my work of writing. And yet I have responded to the calls to come to Oakland, and the Lord has given me strength for the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 5)
Later. March 18, ’07. I have just read your letter telling of the meeting in Berkeley. I feel thankful that you were present. May the Lord give His grace, that the work He desires to have done in Oakland and Berkeley may be accomplished.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 6)
I shall send a letter to Dr. Sanderson and Brother Brorsen, asking them to stand together. Had Brother Steel been put in again as elder, he would have become a ruling element, and there would be a repetition of what we have had to meet in the past.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 7)
How is the work advancing at Loma Linda? The work in Southern California should be guarded, that we do not allow too much responsibility to rest on any one man. This important part of the great field must be worked judiciously. Men of responsibility need to be counselled. Elder Cottrell is a man of broad experience and by virtue of his position is a chief counsellor in regard to the work. Elder Burden is a man of experience, and his knowledge of the field and his judgment are to be consulted.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 8)
I would say to the church members at Loma Linda, Lean not on the counsel of any one man, but unite your prayers to the Lord for guidance. Let Him direct the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 9)
Redlands and Riverside are in need of help. The Lord has shown me that the message is to be preached in these places. In deciding which of these towns shall receive help first, consult the judgment of those men who have been bearing responsibilities in this part of the field. Counsel together with much prayer and intelligent investigation of the situation. The Lord is calling for these places to be worked.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 10)
God calls for minute men, men who will be wide-awake to take in the situation. The work is not to be carried on according to one man’s mind and judgment. Bible truth is to be presented to the people under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. We cannot spend weeks and months in one place. In San Diego a work is to be accomplished. Laborers should be sent out through that place to proclaim the near return of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 11)
The Lord declares that the end of all things is at hand. Increasing wickedness is seen on every side, and this wickedness must be met in the wisdom of God. The law of God is to be exalted. It was because of transgression that God destroyed the earth with the waters of a flood. It is because of transgression at the present time that He declares, “I will punish the world for their iniquity. The earth shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.” [See Isaiah 26:21.] At that day the slain of the Lord will be from one end of the earth to the other end of the earth. We are to give the warning message. In many places in Southern California the work is to be carried forward diligently.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 12)
In haste.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 13)
There is another matter about which I wish to speak. Will you see if a position can be found in the sanitarium for Sister E. R. Caro. She can give massage and could be useful in several lines of work. If a place could be found for her in the sanitarium, Sister Margaret Caro could go with her to Loma Linda and take care of the children while the daughter works. It might be possible that both could take part in the work. You know the mother, and could speak for her. Perhaps you, Sister Haskell, could make inquiries and see if such workers are needed, and what the probability is of both or one finding work there. Both these sisters are fully decided not to go back to Australia.
(22LtMs, Lt 102, 1907, 14)
Lt 104, 1907
Those Making Large Gifts to the Cause St. Helena, California March 19, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in NUR 04/16/1907. + To those making large gifts to the cause of present truth:
I am instructed to say to our brethren in South Dakota and elsewhere, The work of God is advancing and will soon be finished. Let not the cause of Present Truth be hindered by unbelief. The Lord desires the people in the now prosperous states to do a work that will glorify His name.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 1)
All our blessings, temporal as well as spiritual, come from God. The money you possess is the Lord’s, lent to you to further His cause in the earth. There should be no withholding from the Lord of His goods.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 2)
Let not those who have made pledges to carry on the work of God repent of their vows and withhold that which they have given. Those who have taken upon themselves the responsibility of annulling a pledge that has been made to God are assuming to do that for which they will not care to account in the day of final reckoning. The counsel of men who would at this time advise that means be withheld from the cause of God and invested in other enterprises should be rejected; for the Lord says to you, “Lay up your treasure in heaven.” [Matthew 6:20.] “Invest your means to advance My work, to open new fields, that the light of present truth may shine to all parts of the world.”
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 3)
How munificent was the Gift that God gave to the human race. He “so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that, whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] The Lord Jesus gave His life for the world, that man might have a perfect example. Laying off His royal robe and kingly crown, He came to earth as a man. He was tempted in all points as man is tempted, but not once did He fail to follow the path He had chosen. He was kept by the power of God, upheld by the One who will be the helper of all who love Him and keep His commandments.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 4)
Christ lived the simple life of a poor man’s son, and thus became acquainted with the childhood life of the poor. And when during His ministry children were brought to Him, that He might bless them, He thought of the mother who gave Him birth and honored the mothers of these children, blessing them and their children also. Christ gave Himself to a life of humiliation and poverty, that He might be able, from childhood to manhood, to leave to all an example of what life should mean to every member of the human family.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 5)
All who have become children of God are to do all in their power to seek and to save the lost sheep. They are to make use of every possible means to give sinners the word of life and the saving grace of Christ. Believers in the truth are ever to remember the sacrifice that Christ made in order that He might, in taking humanity, be an example to all human beings. Our church members are to follow His example of self-denial and sacrifice, seeking and saving the souls perishing in unbelief and sin. Everywhere they are to give the truth to those ready to perish, explaining the Word of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 6)
Why is it that so very few in our churches have a genuine desire to practice the self-denial that Christ practiced? Study the sixth chapter of Matthew. I am bidden to give this warning, “In such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:44.] “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” [Matthew 6:19-21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 7)
Will not our churches become converted to this way of caring for their treasure? Is the Lord’s Word to be disregarded by His professing people? Shall the people who call themselves by His name give a message and exert an influence directly contrary to a “Thus saith the Lord”? The Lord entrusts us with means that we may be His helping hand as the work advances, and help is needed for new fields.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 8)
Each soul in every family is on probation. We are to regard our probationary time as belonging to Christ. Our time, our opportunities are to be regarded as exceedingly valuable. Our thoughts are to dwell on the things written in the Scriptures. Unless we, as Christ’s blood-bought subjects, show in our characters the virtues of His life, we cannot be saved. The only way in which we can gain salvation is through accepting Christ as the Redeemer of the world and the only hope of the sinner.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 9)
Imagined self-excellence is nothing. Christ is our life. It is His virtue that must be brought into the life of His followers. Self, and every vestige of selfishness, must die. The life that Christ lived in our world is the example of what every man and woman must become in order to be saved.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 10)
From the moment that Christ became a public teacher, He regarded the world as His field and sought to become its life and light. Today through His Word, He presents Himself to the human family as their highest good. All who claim to be Christians are to represent Him in a Christlike life.
(22LtMs, Lt 104, 1907, 11)
Lt 106, 1907
Rasmussen, Sister St. Helena, California March 19, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 32. Dear Sister Rasmussen:
I have words of encouragement and counsel for you. Do not be overanxious, but trust in the Lord. Do not trust in the wisdom of those who would advise you to take back that which you have pledged to the cause of God. Be true to the convictions of your own conscience and to your vows. The Bible must be your counselor. Study it, and the testimonies God has given; for they never contradict His Word. When you are convinced that it is your privilege to lay up treasure in heaven by using a portion of your goods to advance the truth, let nothing hinder you from doing it. In pledging your money to the cause, you are only returning to the Lord that which He has lent you on trust. He has made you an almoner of means that you may help His cause to prosper in the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 106, 1907, 1)
Writing to the Corinthian brethren, Paul says, “As touching the ministering to the saints, you have no need that I write unto you: for I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many. Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready; lest haply they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting. Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.
(22LtMs, Lt 106, 1907, 2)
“But this I say, He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity; for the Lord loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: as it is written, He hath dispersed abroad, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness remaineth forever.
(22LtMs, Lt 106, 1907, 3)
“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness; being enriched in all things to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings to God; whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men. And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” [2 Corinthians 9:1-15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 106, 1907, 4)
I have recently written a letter to our brethren in South Dakota, and will send you a copy. Be of good cheer, and trust in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 106, 1907, 5)
Lt 107, 1907
Cottrell, H. W. St. Helena, California March 19, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder H. W. Cottrell Dear Brother:
I am of excellent courage in the Lord. I am sorry I cannot go with you this week to Southern California. I want you to be of good courage in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 107, 1907, 1)
This is a time when there should be wise planning for the work in Southern California. Meetings should be held at Redlands, Riverside, and at Loma Linda. These places must hear the message that the Lord has given us for the people.
(22LtMs, Lt 107, 1907, 2)
I do not say that a prolonged effort be made in any one place; but these cities are important centers and should be faithfully worked. There are too many places to be labored for to allow us to hold meetings for any great length of time in one place. In all the towns and cities the last note of warning is to be sounded, and many, very many, have not yet heard it. May the Lord direct and teach us what is the right thing to do.
(22LtMs, Lt 107, 1907, 3)
“When Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, He departed into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth, He came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim; that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; the people that sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death, light is sprung up.” [Matthew 4:12-16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 107, 1907, 4)
Lt 108, 1907
Brethren in Graysville St. Helena, California March 18, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in UL 91. +
To our brethren in Graysville:
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 1)
The southern field needs many more laborers. This field is an extensive one, which as yet has scarcely been touched. When I hear of perplexities and differences of opinion among our people, I am moved to say, Teachers and ministers, there are many cities to be worked. Take your Bibles and our papers and tracts, and make your way to homes where you can educate those who have not an understanding of the truth for this time. Tell what you know to those who are in darkness. Pray as you work, remembering that you are laborers together with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 2)
My heart longs to see the work advance. In Graysville you have light in regard to the law of the Lord. The angels of God are ready and waiting to go with humble men who with their Bibles in their hands will go to those who have not had this light, and read to them a “Thus saith the Lord.”
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 3)
Those who have the gift of song are needed. The melody of praise is the atmosphere of heaven. Often by the words of sacred songs, the springs of penitence and faith have been unsealed. Song is one of the most effective means of impressing spiritual truth upon the heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 4)
Let little companies of workers go out as the Lord’s missionaries and do as Christ commissioned the first disciples to do. Let them go into the different parts of our cities, two and two, and give the Lord’s message of warning. Tell the people the story of creation, and how at the close of His work the Lord rested upon and blessed the Sabbath day, setting it apart as a memorial of His work.
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 5)
Church members young and old should be educated to go forth to proclaim this last message to the world. If they will go in humility, angels of God will go with them, teaching them to lift up the voice in prayer, how to raise the voice in song, and how to proclaim the gospel message for this time. We have not a moment to lose.
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 6)
In visions of the night I was given a view of the present situation. One of authority stood in our midst; and as He looked upon teachers and students, He said, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth; go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 7)
Ministers, canvassers, Bible workers, teachers, students, and workers as yet untrained, the cities in the South need laborers. Take up your responsibilities as teachers of Bible truth. There is an experience for you to gain in the work of winning souls to Christ. Will you work to obtain this experience?
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 8)
Who will take up this work of teaching Bible truth to old and young? Who will carry the message, following Christ’s plan of labor? O how my heart would rejoice to see the overplus of our teachers supplying the great lack of evangelists. Many there are in every city who feel the need of gospel shepherds. We need men who will read the truth, practice the truth, and explain the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 9)
Brethren, Christ calls you; will you heed His voice? Will you become His messengers? Will you seek the sheep that are lost? Will you teach the Word in all humility and earnestness to those who will hear?
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 10)
Young men and women, take up the work to which God calls you. Tell the wondrous story of the cross. Christ will lead you and teach you to use your abilities to good purpose. As you receive the quickening influence of the Holy Spirit, and you seek to teach others, your minds will be refreshed, and you will be enabled to present words that are new and strangely beautiful to your hearers. Pray, and sing, and speak the Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 11)
The southern field is in great need of workers, and few are willing to offer themselves wholeheartedly to the work that needs most to be done there. Some precious souls have surrendered their will to God, and are working for those who are perishing out of Christ; but there is need of more help. Young men, will you not accept this work of teaching Bible truth? Spiritual freedom will come to those who consecrate themselves unreservedly, and the quickening grace of Christ will bring light and peace and joy. The saving influence of truth will sanctify the soul of the receiver.
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 12)
There is a great work to be done. Who will do it? From the light that God has given me there are many men and women who should now be working as the mouthpieces of God, declaring the truth in its simplicity, giving this last message of warning to the world. The word of the Lord has come to those in Graysville: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come; and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” [Isaiah 60:1.]
(22LtMs, Lt 108, 1907, 13)
Lt 110, 1907
White, J. E. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 22, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Son Edson:
We are glad to hear that you will be with us soon. Willie may go to Mountain View Sunday morning to meet you. We shall expect to see you here Monday. I shall be very pleased to confer with you regarding many things. I am having quite good health now, and we can talk over many matters. I hope this may be to the advantage of us all.
(22LtMs, Lt 110, 1907, 1)
Your letters have given the impression that your visit with us would be very short, but I entreat of you to make no appointments for the future that will interfere with your spending some time with us.
(22LtMs, Lt 110, 1907, 2)
For some weeks we have been planning to visit Southern California, but various matters, important and urgent, have urged themselves upon us, and we could not go. And we did not want to go South until after your visit. I have wanted to be in a favorable position to spend considerable time with you when you come. I have abundance of room in my house and we can make you comfortable. I had hoped that Emma would come with you, and was sorry to hear that her health was not such as to make her coming advisable.
(22LtMs, Lt 110, 1907, 3)
Your mother.
(22LtMs, Lt 110, 1907, 4)
Lt 112, 1907
Nashville Sanitarium and the Southern Union Conference St. Helena, California March 10, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 402-405. + To the directors of the Nashville Sanitarium and the Southern Union Conference Dear Brethren:
During the night some matters were brought before me, which I was charged to present to you. We seemed to be in a council meeting, where certain questions were being considered. One of these questions was the necessary arrangements to be made for the prosecution of the work at Huntsville.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 1)
A mistake is being made in the use of means in some parts of the field. The workers need to sit down and count the cost of the tower they are building, to know if they are able to finish it.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 2)
In the past the work in the South has been carried on by earnest effort and with limited means. Now more money than is necessary is being invested in building the sanitarium at Nashville. This will not leave a correct influence on the workers in other parts of the field. At this time, when there is so great need of help in many lines of the work, any extravagance in fitting up the Nashville Sanitarium will leave an impression on the workers and on others that will not be healthful. There is great need of means to support the workers in the field, and the strictest economy should be practiced with every advance step that is taken. The tendency to invest large sums of money in the Nashville Sanitarium must be guarded against. There must not be a large showing in one place, while very little interest is manifested in other places of great importance.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 3)
There is a great work to be accomplished at Huntsville and a large demand for means in order to erect appropriate buildings and carry on a successful work there. Again at Madison help is needed to continue the educational work that has been established there. It would be a great advantage to the school in Madison if a food factory were put in operation in connection with the work of the school.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 4)
The school in Madison has been established in the order of the Lord, and it requires its share of help. Brethren Sutherland and Magan, in their work at Berrien Springs, overtaxed their physical powers, and both need to be guarded against laboring beyond their strength at Madison. Brother Sutherland needs to guard himself very carefully and keep near to the great Healer. Both these workers are to be appreciated by their fellow workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 5)
The needs of the different parts of the field should be considered fairly and proportionate help given to each. It is not right that those who have been laboring under burdens for years, and whose health has been broken by their arduous work, should be left to struggle along unaided under a great load of perplexity.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 6)
The use of means in the sanitarium at Nashville should be considered in a Bible light, not a selfish light. Christian Benevolence will lead to a study of the needs of every branch of the work, and a determination that each shall have its proper part. Time is passing, and the work of God in the earth will soon be accomplished. Upon the men who act a leading part in the various branches of the work, a large degree of the Holy Spirit must rest in order that the work may be carried to completion in the Lord’s own way. The Lord lives and reigns, and He has promised to guide His people with judgment if they will walk humbly with Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 7)
The workers in the printing office, in the school, in the food factory, and in the sanitarium should blend their interests. Those connected with one branch of the work should feel an interest in every other branch. All should realize that every department of these various lines of work is to be conducted according to the principles of the Word of God, and that the workers are to labor under the guidance of His precious counsel. Not one thread of selfishness must be woven into the web; for the Lord will not regard with favor anything of this sort. “All ye are brethren; and the work is one. There is need of a daily conversion on the part of the workers if they would feel a true concern for the work as a whole.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 8)
When you come together for worship and to seek the Lord, it should be your one aim to honor Him whose requirements are all equal and just. His will, declared to you in His Word, is to be carried out to the letter. The rule of righteousness revealed in the lives of His professing people is to make them conspicuous. We are to live with an eye single to the glory of God, ever seeking to be Christians in every sense of the word.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 9)
These words were spoken by our Instructor: “You are to be under the control of God. Learn how to harmonize. Love as brethren; be pitiful; be courteous. God’s commandments are just and equal. All His workers are to be honored as laborers together with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 10)
“The varied interests of the work are to be built up with care. From this time onward responsibilities will rapidly increase. God’s will, the perfect rule of righteousness, is to be revealed in your work. Commune often every day with your God, and listen to the voice that says to you, ‘Be still, and know that I am God.’ [Psalm 46:10.] As your responsibilities increase with the advancement of the message, temptations will also increase. As the magnitude of the work presses itself upon the soul, humble your hearts before God. Act faithfully your part in the work, and stand faithfully in your individual accountability before God. God is no respecter of persons. He that doeth righteousness is righteous. A mere profession is of no value, and knowledge is of worth only as it is used righteously.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 11)
“Murmur not; repine not; covet not; quarrel not;” our Instructor continued. “When you are afflicted, look to the great Physician. You have need to rejoice and to humble yourselves before the Lord. By indulging a selfish spirit, men become narrow and short-sighted; and then they fail to read from cause to effect. The Word of the Lord is to be your guide in all things. ‘The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before Him.’” [Habakkuk 2:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 12)
By the figure of the vine and the branches, Christ illustrated not only the relation that should exist between Him and His followers, but also the union between every believer and his fellow believer. The branches of the vine are related to each other; but they are not alike. Each has its own individuality, which cannot be merged into that of another, but all have a special connection with each other. The root that supplies nourishment to one branch supplies nourishment to every other branch. Each must depend alike on the vine for sustenance; all must be joined to the parent stalk. The life and growth and fruitfulness of each depend alike on the parent vine. In obedience to the laws of nature, their common hold of the true vine makes them one; in their diversity there is unity.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 13)
The lesson of the vine and its branches holds a deep meaning for the workers in the cause of God. Every worker is to draw his strength from the same source; and while the individuality of each is to be maintained, unity and harmony is to be preserved. When this spirit of oneness pervades the work, our institutions throughout the world will be united in their interests, while the individuality of any one will not be merged into that of any other one.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 14)
In the past it was urged by some that the interests of the cause would be furthered by a consolidation of our publishing institutions, bringing them all virtually under one management. This the Lord positively instructed us should not be. It is not the purpose of God to centralize in this way, bringing all the interests of one branch of the work under the management of a comparatively few men. In His great purpose of advancing the cause of truth in the earth, He designs that every part of His work shall blend with every other part. The workers are to draw together in the spirit of Christ. In their diversity, they are to preserve unity. One institution is not to be brought under the control of another, but all are to exercise their powers harmoniously. The work of direction is to be left with the great Manager, while obedience to the Word of the Lord is to be the aim of all His workers. In the different places where the work is established, it will often be small in its beginning. Then it will grow. This is represented by the prophet Ezekiel under the figure of water issuing from under the threshold of the house.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 15)
“Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house, and, behold, water issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward; for the forefront of the house stood toward the east; and the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the south side of the altar. Then brought he me out of the gate northward, and led me about the way without unto the utter gate by the way that looketh eastward; and, behold, there ran out waters on the right side.” [Ezekiel 47:1, 2.]
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 16)
These waters signify the gospel of Christ which went forth from Jerusalem and spread to all countries. The gifts and power of the Holy Spirit, which accompanied the Word, caused it to yield great results.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 17)
“Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea, which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. And it shall come to pass that everything that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live; and there shall be a great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come thither; for they shall be healed; and everything shall live whither the river cometh.... And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed; it shall bring forth new fruit according to its months, because their waters they issue out of the sanctuary, and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.” [Verses 8, 9, 12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 18)
There is to be much more extensive work done in the future than has been done in the past. Had selfishness been entirely put away from the lives of the workers, we as a people would stand before God today in large numbers, every one as true as steel to the principles of the Word. The Lord now calls upon the men chosen for His work to stand as one man for the advancement of the cause of Christ. In their diversity of gifts and callings there is to be seen the unity represented by the figure of the vine and the branches.
(22LtMs, Lt 112, 1907, 19)
Lt 114, 1907
Daniells, A. G.; Kress, D. H.; Irwin, G. A. St. Helena, California April 2, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 49-50. Dear Brethren Daniells, Kress, and Irwin:
I feel a heavy burden for the sanitarium being erected at Takoma Park. In the important centers of America our work must be carried as far as possible, and institutions must be completed and provided with suitable help.
(22LtMs, Lt 114, 1907, 1)
I have received positive instruction that the sanitarium work in the city of Washington should not be abandoned. Our efforts are not all to be centered in Takoma Park. In the city itself there should be a sanitarium suitably located.
(22LtMs, Lt 114, 1907, 2)
In the visions of the night I was in a council meeting where were being discussed some matters pertaining to the medical work in the District of Columbia. Some present expressed it as their best judgment that when the sanitarium buildings in Takoma Park were completed and equipped, the sanitarium in the city should be closed. Then One of divine wisdom and understanding spoke of the importance of maintaining in the city every possible agency for exalting the principles of Bible truth. The seeds of truth should be sown among men of influence in the nation’s capital.
(22LtMs, Lt 114, 1907, 3)
The sanitarium is an important agency in disseminating the light that should shine forth to the men upon whom rests the responsibility of making laws for the nation. With the sanitarium in Washington there should be connected physicians and helpers who can represent the truth as it should be represented. A sanitarium in Washington will lead to an acquaintance with our institutions at Takoma Park, for which earnest efforts should be put forth to secure the very best possible talent. God desires the light of truth to shine forth to counselors and senators, that much blind prejudice may be removed. A serious injury would be done the cause of God, were the sanitarium that has been operated in the city of Washington now to be closed.
(22LtMs, Lt 114, 1907, 4)
I am hoping to see sufficient means given by our people to enable the various branches of our work to be perfected in the important city of Washington.
(22LtMs, Lt 114, 1907, 5)
I have written this hurriedly, that it may go in the mail this afternoon, but I hope to write more later.
(22LtMs, Lt 114, 1907, 6)
Lt 116, 1907
Campbell, M. N. St. Helena, California March 23, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PC 119-122. Elder M. N. Campbell
Battle Creek, Michigan Dear Brother:
We have received and read the interesting letters from you and Brother Amadon. We feel deeply grieved at the course that Frank Belden has pursued. That my nephew should urge his unsanctified opinions in such a persistent manner causes me much sorrow of heart. This is a repetition of the way in which he conducted himself when he had plans of his own to carry at the Review and Herald office. His actions reveal the spirit that controls him. I feel sorry for him beyond anything that I can express, and I ask you to pity him and to pray for him. His mother was my sister, and a sincere, devoted Christian.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 1)
There have been presented before me scenes that often occurred in the Review and Herald office when Frank Belden had some plan that he desired to carry out. He would determinedly stand up and with a loud voice continue to talk until he had fully presented his ambitious plans before his brethren; and I am sorry to say that very often these plans were adopted. He did more than any other one man in the office to bring in wrong sentiments and carry out his own plans. These plans, when afterward brought to bear upon himself, he did not find so agreeable. I feel sad when I think of the record he must meet of impetuous action and the surrender of those principles that his uncle James White and I have ever striven to maintain. Frank Belden has excellent talent, and had he walked humbly with his God, the Lord would have used him to His name’s glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 2)
In the Saviour’s life is given us a pattern of the character we are to attain. He met the severest temptations of an obstinate foe and in spite of powerful and sorcerous delusions made His path plain.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 3)
The simplicity of the work of the Messiah gave unmistakable evidence of His mission. He swept away the errors that existed in the religious world with a confidence and tact that could not be gainsaid. He would have truth stand out clear and free from every error with which Satan would try to enshroud it. He presented heaven-born principles so clearly before the minds of the people, that the way to heaven was made clear and plain, and he who missed the way had no excuse.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 4)
To the forerunner of Christ was given the message, “Repent ye for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] The work of the herald of Christ was the continuous effort to destroy the popular delusion concerning the coming Messiah, and to show that repentance and forsaking of sin are necessary preparations for the coming kingdom. This work constituted the preparation for the establishment of the true church.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 5)
On coming to the temple at the opening of His ministry, Christ repaired to the temple and found His Father’s house desecrated by worldly traffic. He drove out from the temple courts the buyers and the sellers, and the priests and rulers. He “poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables, and said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not My Father’s house a house of merchandise.” [John 2:15, 16.] The money taken by the dealers for the sacrificial offerings was robbery of the people; and they had made the house of God a den of thieves, and with a stern rebuke Christ exposed their extortionate traffic.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 6)
By expelling the worldly traffickers who were profaning sacred things, Christ would impress upon those who were to compose His church on earth that name and position weigh as nothing in the scale with virtue and purity of character, with honesty and righteous dealing.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 7)
What excuse will be rendered to God by those who, having had every advantage of the knowledge of the precious truth for this time, disregard the Word of God and go contrary to His expressed will, violating the principles of the divine law so definitely stated?
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 8)
I feel more sorry than I can express that my own nephew should so boldly place himself in opposition to all the light that has been given. He has steadily pursued his own way for so long, and has expressed his own opinions so often, that he now ridicules truth, and discards that which once he respected. I have had presented distinctly before me the past, present, and future of those who have thus departed from the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 9)
I was instructed to write out the truth as it was revealed to me, and point by point give it to the people. I have done this, and still there is much to present that the truth may be made simple and plain. The work God has given me to do is to stand firmly and intelligently for that which I know to be truth. That which I have given to the people was given in the purpose of God, to strengthen the believers, that they might not be led away by seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 10)
I have no appeals to make to those who have once stood firmly for the truth, but who have now departed from the faith and refuse a “Thus saith the Lord.” My books contain the light that God has given me, and they are my argument. Those who, having believed their testimony in the past, now cast it aside will have no excuse to render for their course; for today as then the light shines clearly, declaring what is truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 11)
There is much more that I wish to write to our people, but what I shall write will only be a confirmation of the messages given in the past. I shall be called once more to give the light to those who are departing from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and moving in strange paths. But the Lord has shown me that all that can be given to these souls is but a repetition and confirmation of the truths that have already been placed impressively before them. Not one principle of the truths we have held in the past can be denied.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 12)
The men in Battle Creek who are taking their position against the warnings of the Spirit of God have received message after message, but with some there has been no change. O that they would make a covenant with God and humble their hearts before Him. O that they would repent of the time they have lost in taking up a work that God has not given them to do. O that Frank Belden would see his mistakes and repent.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 13)
Who will give evidence that they want to know the will of God concerning them? Who are willing to receive the message of the Lord which has been coming to them through His servant to point out their errors? O that these men would see themselves as the Lord sees them. They have an earnest work to do in repenting before God of the harm they have done to themselves and others.
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 14)
The prophet Isaiah, in the fifty-eighth chapter of that book, delineates the case of these men. They need to repent and afflict their souls before God. Now is their time to contemplate the Saviour’s life of humiliation and His death of suffering. The cross of Christ was needed to bring salvation within our reach and to make our redemption certain. “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 116, 1907, 15)
Lt 118, 1907
Daniells, A. G. St. Helena, California January 19, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 395-396. Elder A. G. Daniells
Takoma Park Sta., Washington, D.C. Dear Brother:
Today I have been carrying a heavy burden on my heart. Last night some matters of special importance were opened before me. I seemed to be passing through a severe conflict.
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 1)
I was addressing a company of men and women and presenting to them the dangers of our people. I spoke of our great need of being much with God in prayer. I had words of encouragement to give to different ones.
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 2)
Words of instruction were given to me to speak to you and Elder Evans, Elder Butler, and Elder Washburn. I said: You have a work to do to encourage the school work at Madison, Tennessee. There are but few teachers among us who have had experience in carrying forward the work in hard places. The workers who have been striving to carry out the mind and will of God in Madison have not received the encouragement they should have. Unless Brother Sutherland is relieved of some of the pressure that is upon him, he will fall under the burden.
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 3)
You may ask, What is needed? I answer. It is encouragement. Brethren Sutherland and Magan have had a severe lesson in the past. The Lord sent them correction and instruction, and they received the message from the Lord and made confession. Other men have made grave mistakes. It was a grievous mistake to plan to center so many interests in Battle Creek. Shall we be influenced by those who say that the men who made that mistake cannot be trusted?
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 4)
When I was in Washington, I entreated Brethren Sutherland and Magan to believe that the Lord had forgiven their mistakes, and I have since tried by my help and encouragement to have them realize that the Lord had placed them on vantage ground.
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 5)
It is your privilege, Brother Daniells, and the privilege of those who have wide influence in the work, to let these brethren understand that they have your confidence and encouragement in the work they are bravely doing. Brother Sutherland is in a precarious state of health. We cannot afford to lose him; we need his experience in the school work. The brethren who have influence should do all in their power to hold up the hands of these workers by encouraging and supporting the work of the Madison school. Means should be appropriated to the needs of the work in Madison, that the labors of the teachers may not be so hard in the future.
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 6)
Our Individual Responsibility
Our churches are certainly in need of instruction. “Sanctify the Lord God of hosts Himself; and let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” [Isaiah 8:13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 7)
To every man is given his work. In the representation of the parable, the householder gave the talents to his servants, “according to their several ability.” [Matthew 25:15.] All are not in possession of the same capabilities. Each has a special work to do, that there may be no schism in the body of Christ. Each is to take up his special work and run with patience the race that is set before him.
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 8)
We have moral and social obligations to meet. There is an abundance of work for all to do. Many are groping in darkness and following in paths of selfish gratification, while professing the name of Christ. They have not felt the responsibility devolving upon them to grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. Such ones need the help of a kind heart, a helpful hand, to help them back into the paths of righteousness. As Christians we have a special work before us, which if we will do in humility of mind, God will honor with His blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 118, 1907, 9)
Lt 120, 1907
Burden, J. A. St. Helena, California April 3, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 201-203. Elder J. A. Burden
Loma Linda Sanitarium Dear Brother:
There are some things that I desire to write to you. Do not be in haste about the health food business. There is a possibility of entering into a work that will bring gain of means, but which would result in spiritual loss to the sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 1)
Commercial enterprises often work to a large degree counter to the purpose for which our institutions are established. They detract from the influence which God desires shall attend the work. The condition brought about is sometimes the condition in which Christ found the barren fig tree. Searching for fruit with which to satisfy His need, the Saviour found nothing but a show of leaves. In visions of the night I have seen Christ searching in our institutions for fruit, for that virtue revealed in the lives of His workers that tells in the saving of the soul unto eternal life.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 2)
You have a noble work to do in praying with the sick and in feeding their souls with the bread of life. You are to be God’s medical missionary, teaching souls what it means to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God. Christ explains the meaning of these words. “The flesh profiteth nothing,” He said; “the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:63.] You have the ability to speak in a pleasant, intelligent, interesting way to the sick. It is your privilege to inspire them with hope and courage and lead them to a knowledge of the truth of the Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 3)
Many of the patients who come to the sanitarium are children in their understanding of the Word. If you will take hold of these cases, and seek to lead them to the truth, One who is your righteousness will go before you, and “the glory of the Lord will be your rereward.” [Isaiah 58:8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 4)
Your mind must be a treasure house, full of good things. Keep the patients cheerful. Pleasant words of instruction may be given to them that will be a blessing to them while they are at the sanitarium; and when they return to their homes, the message of truth they have heard will be constantly repeating itself to them. We do not appreciate how far greater are the results for good when we bring cheerfulness and the joy of the Lord into our work.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 5)
I am very desirous that you shall feel as free as possible to do this gospel work. Your strength for it, and your success in it, will depend largely on the time and strength you reserve for this work. You should not allow yourself to be overwhelmed with responsibilities, so that you cannot have the realization in your own soul that you are in the right place.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 6)
It is necessary that you share your responsibilities with others. Those who are spiritually minded, and whom you can trust with the work, should be employed to help carry out your plans. You will find that you accomplish much more in the end if you will allow others to bear burdens. Your perceptions are good, but they must be worked in order to be improved. This is also true of your fellow workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 7)
In no place in the world can our influence tell on the Lord’s side with such power as in the position to which He calls us. The most useful thing we do in the service of God is to encourage the souls that are distressed and lead them to Christ. Keep the lives of the patients constantly refreshed by a Christlike example. You will have success if you will be a self-denying Christian. An earnest desire to be obedient to the will of your heavenly Father will bring you to the place where you will wear Christ’s yoke. Those who are great in the sight of the Lord will, like John the Baptist, have humility of heart. Then good works will follow. Your example may be such that others will wish to emulate it. Your obedience and humbleness of mind will make obedience and humility desirable things to those who are associated with you.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 8)
The words of truth were so simple as Christ explained them that the disciples could comprehend them. The Word of God is our spirit and life. It is the weapon by which we are to resist the attacks of Satan. Those who are much with God in prayer, and consent to wear the yoke of Christ, will be meek and lowly in heart. They will be one with Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 9)
You and your wife can be a source of help and strength to each other and a blessing to the sanitarium. Prayer is the key that will unlock the treasure of heaven to you. Let your faith increase. Increased faith and sanctification of the Spirit will qualify you to be a wise counselor. Words spoken in season and in the spirit of tenderness, accompanied by the silent working of the Holy Spirit, will make the right impression. Do not think that you are accomplishing nothing because you cannot see definite results for your work. You are to sow the seed, knowing not which shall prosper, this or that.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 10)
May the Lord help and strengthen and bless you in your work, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 120, 1907, 11)
Lt 122, 1907
Crawford, Marion Stowell St. Helena, California April 1, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 119-120. Mrs. M. C. S. Crawford Dear Sister:
I have received your letter containing the information regarding H. O. Nichols. I could read your letters very readily. I shall write to Brother Nichols very soon, perhaps today.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 1)
I have done considerable writing this winter during the early hours of the morning. I am having some difficulty with my eyes which I expect to recover from, but which makes it necessary for me to be guarded in the way I use them at present.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 2)
I am glad to learn that you are laying your treasure up in heaven. The counsel Christ gave in regard to the investment of our means is the best advice we can follow. The question you ask, in regard to using your means to purchase certain articles, I will answer by asking you, If Christ were here, and you could ask Him, what would He say?
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 3)
In hearing and possessing the Word of the living God, great responsibilities rest upon us. A knowledge of the Word of truth makes us responsible for the means that God entrusts to us.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 4)
It is a great privilege to have means to invest in the cause of God, and the follower of Christ is blessed who desires to place his means where, instead of ministering to selfish desires, it can help to work out the purposes of God. This is your privilege. It is possible for you to so use your Lord’s entrusted means that by it souls may be won to Christ. The souls thus won to Christ, accepting their privileges as children of God, will use their capabilities and influence to win still others to a knowledge of truth. These in their turn, being not only hearers but doers of the Word, also labor for the salvation of souls. Thus your gifts to the cause of God continue to produce good works, the results of which can only be known in eternity.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 5)
When we think of the great gift of heaven for the redemption of a sinful world, and then consider the offerings that we can make, we shrink from drawing a comparison. The demands that might be made on a whole universe could not compare with that one Gift. Immeasurable love was expressed when One equal with the Father came to pay the price for the souls of men and bring to them the gift of eternal life. The Prince of life would destroy the power of death.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 6)
Shall those who profess the name of Christ see no attraction in the world’s Redeemer? Will they be indifferent to the possession of truth and righteousness and turn from the heavenly treasure to the earthly? Can you, my sister, use the Lord’s money to purchase diamonds or any other jewels for any person? These cannot save one soul; they will not lead anyone to accept the saving truths for this time. Let us do nothing to encourage a vanity that is sinful. No, my sister, save the money you may be tempted to spend in this way, and place it where it will bring honor and glory to Christ. When your brother becomes anxious to secure the Pearl of great price, which is truth, pure, unadulterated truth, he will see that that which he now deems wisdom is vanity.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 7)
We are striving to come into possession of eternal riches. In the appropriation of your means, let it be used in such a way that it will be constantly yielding returns to God. In placing in another’s hands that which would be spent merely to gratify human vanity, you are placing that portion of your means where it can bring no returns to God. The Lord has made you a steward of means, that you may do good works in many ways; be careful that you do all things with an eye single to the glory of God. Our offerings made to carry out the great plan of salvation will bring glory to the One for whose sake the gifts were made.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 8)
As the Lord’s stewards we are to work for time and for eternity. O how great is the work before us. I pray that you may so use your talent of means that it will bring blessing to many souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 9)
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He that believeth in Him is not condemned; but he that believeth not is condemned already; because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 10)
“And this is the condemnation that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” [John 3:16-21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 11)
This gospel message is one of the most precious passages in the New Testament. When it is accepted it yields in the lives of the receivers good deeds, whose value is far above that of diamonds or gold. These words have a power to bring consolation and gladness into the earthly life, and they are eternal life to those who receive them. O that we might have our understanding so enlightened by grace that we could take in their full meaning. The Father is saying to us, I will bestow upon you a treasure more precious than any earthly possession, a treasure that will make its possessors rich and blessed forever.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 12)
In this life our riches are limited, but the great treasure that God offers in His Gift to the world is unlimited. It comprehends every human desire and goes far beyond our human calculations. In the great day of final decision, when every man shall be judged by his record in the books of heaven, every voice will be hushed. It will be seen that in His Gift to the human race, God gave all He had to give, and they are without excuse who have refused to accept the gracious offer of salvation.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 13)
My soul is weighed down when I think of the careless and impenitent who have had great and wonderful light, but who do not grasp the opportunity they have of coming into obedience to the law of God. The ten holy precepts, given amid demonstrations of power and grandeur from Mt. Sinai by God Himself, declare the principles that rule in heaven. They were made known to man that he might understand the terms of entrance into the holy city, New Jerusalem. Only those who turn by repentance and conversion to a life of obedience to God are assured of a life of happiness and peace in the Father’s home. To such the gates of the city are opened; the eternal substance is given them, and they inherit all things.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 14)
Now, my sister, I think your question is answered. Obedience to the commandments of God will secure you an entrance into the city of God. Speak to your brothers, “Turn ye, turn ye; for why will ye die?” [Ezekiel 33:11.] O why should any choose to stand on the side of the great rebel, to the loss of the soul? Tell your brother to prepare to meet the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 15)
Be of good courage in the Lord. Press the battle to the gate. And when the gates of the city of God are thrown open, and the righteous nation which has kept the truth shall enter in, may you be numbered with that glad company, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 122, 1907, 16)
Lt 124, 1907
Nicola, Sister [C. C.] NP April 4, 1907 [typed] Previously unpublished. + Mrs. C. C. Nicola
Melrose, Massachusetts My dear Sister:
I have heard something in regard to your husband’s illness. I was so sorry to learn of it. Will you let me know more concerning his sickness. Is he improving?
(22LtMs, Lt 124, 1907, 1)
I will not write you a long letter today, but I would be pleased to hear in regard to yourselves and the sanitarium. Who has charge of the sanitarium while your husband is ill? Are you thinking of leaving? I hope you will not do this if it is possible for you to remain. I know nothing of how you are situated. Please write and tell me, for my mind is anxious in regard to yourselves and the work in Melrose. Who besides yourself is acting as physician?
(22LtMs, Lt 124, 1907, 2)
In your affliction, I am afflicted; but I will not write more until I hear from you.
(22LtMs, Lt 124, 1907, 3)
Lt 126, 1907
Crawford, Marion Stowell St. Helena, California April 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister Marion Stowell-Crawford:
I wrote a letter to you yesterday, and in it are some things which I think you can use to help others.
(22LtMs, Lt 126, 1907, 1)
I see that you make gifts to various objects of the work, and I am thankful that you are so liberal. You have reason to rejoice that you can give to the cause of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 126, 1907, 2)
You may read my longer letter to whom you choose. Do not think that anything in my letter was written to censure you. I have meant to encourage you. I hope you will be able to use the instruction in my letter for the good of some who may be needlessly spending the Lord’s money on themselves. This is a thing that none of us can afford to do.
(22LtMs, Lt 126, 1907, 3)
Dr. Kress is expected to arrive on the next boat from Australia. The question whether the sanitarium we have in Iowa Circle in Washington shall be given up is now being considered. For a time this institution was an expense to the cause, but now it is paying its way.
(22LtMs, Lt 126, 1907, 4)
We now have a sanitarium at Takoma Park, close to the school buildings, nearly ready for work. The buildings are not quite finished. It has been thought that when we have the institution at Takoma Park ready for occupancy, the sanitarium at Iowa Circle could be given up. My answer to this proposition is, No, no; the institution at Washington must stand to represent the work and cause of God there, the closing work for this earth.
(22LtMs, Lt 126, 1907, 5)
The truth concerning the Sabbath of the Lord is to be widely proclaimed in that city. God came down on Mt. Sinai with power and majesty to proclaim His law. Slowly and distinctly, amid awful grandeur, the Lord spoke the law of ten commandments. His form was enshrouded in the cloud that settled on the mount, but His voice was heard by all the camp of Israel. O wondrous communication to man!
(22LtMs, Lt 126, 1907, 6)
Our sanitarium in Washington has been patronized by men in high office, and these are becoming acquainted with the tenets of our faith. They speak very favorably of the sanitarium. To give up this institution would be a mistake, for Washington is an important place. Our work and faith must be represented there in the best possible way. I pray that God will help us all to do our work intelligently.
(22LtMs, Lt 126, 1907, 7)
Lt 128, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California April 4, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
We have not heard from you for so long that I am afraid you are sick. Will you please write to us that we may know how you are. My eyes have been troubling me again, but I manage to get off my letters, though it causes me much pain to do so.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 1)
I have not heard from Berkeley since you left. It has rained almost continuously until a few days ago. I have ridden out several times since the weather cleared. I have just driven to the sanitarium to see the site of the new hospital building. It is to be erected a little beyond and above the house we built on the hillside. This is a situation for the new building. The lumber has been negotiated for, and the work has begun in earnest. The workmen are now excavating for the foundation.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 2)
The sanitarium is now so full that it is impossible to accommodate any more patients. This hospital will be a blessing to the institution; and I am very thankful that the Lord has made it possible for us to have it.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 3)
I wish you could go to Melrose and inquire into the state of affairs there. I heard that Doctor Nicola went to Battle Creek and then to Missouri, and that he is not in his right mind. I think if possible you should go to Melrose and see how things really are at the sanitarium; and a visit from you might do them much good.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 4)
We are all as busy as ever. I am trying to do the work in writing that needs to be done. There has been so much to do that we could not leave for Loma Linda and Paradise Valley as we had planned. And I have been feeling so weak that I could not leave home until I had gained a little strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 5)
What to do for physicians in Loma Linda and Paradise Valley, we cannot tell. We very much need physicians of firm principles. There are plenty who, when temptation comes, are switched off on to false tracks.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 6)
The workers at Paradise Valley feel disappointed that I have not visited Southern California as I promised, but several things have hindered me from doing so. Edson wrote that he was coming to St. Helena, and we waited for him. He came last week, but stayed only a day, as his book work called him to Mountain View. He finds that in Mountain View now he has a good opportunity to get out his books, and he thinks to move there. He has made a contract for the use of the tank house for the present, intending to purchase it later on. The tank house is near Elder Loughborough’s home. As soon as he can make the necessary arrangements, he will move Emma to Mountain View.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 7)
I would much rather have Edson in Mountain View than in Nashville; for we can meet and counsel together oftener. Edson prefers Mountain View to any place he has seen thus far. He will have to return to Nashville shortly to settle up his business there. I pray the Lord to give us wisdom that we may move wisely in every way.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 8)
I understand that Dr. Kress is on his way to Washington. He is expected to arrive in Vancouver April 11. We are inviting him to visit us.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 9)
I wish you could read the excellent letter we had from Brother Sutherland. He writes very encouragingly of the work and expresses his appreciation of the efforts I have made to encourage the work there.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 10)
I am of good courage. Pray for me that my eyes may be healed. I am earnestly praying for this. Even as I write this letter, I am suffering considerable pain; but I believe that the Lord will restore me.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 11)
I have sent a word of caution to our brethren not to invest too largely in the new sanitarium at Nashville; for there are many other places that need our help, and should have it. The Madison work must have our support if success is to attend that enterprise. God designs that light shall come to the workers there, and that the work shall be carried on successfully.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 12)
One certain mold is not to be given to every line of the work. God has given various gifts to his different workers, and to every man his work. His faithful servants will prosper under the training that the Lord will give. Man is to keep his hands off his fellow man, and let the Lord teach His workers how to labor in right lines.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 13)
Write to me as soon as you can.
(22LtMs, Lt 128, 1907, 14)
Lt 130, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California April 5, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Son Edson:
I have just finished writing several letters, and this to you must be a short one. We are having rainy weather today. Yesterday also was cloudy and wet.
(22LtMs, Lt 130, 1907, 1)
When you get time, let me know what progress you are making; and as you have time to take in the situation more fully, write and let me know what is your opinion of the tank house as a dwelling place. Are you comfortable? Can we send you anything that would make you more comfortable?
(22LtMs, Lt 130, 1907, 2)
I have just learned that Dr. Kress is on his way to America and will be in Washington in about two weeks.
(22LtMs, Lt 130, 1907, 3)
We may have a delay our journey to Southern California till the first of May.
(22LtMs, Lt 130, 1907, 4)
I trust that you will keep in good health, and that when you return to Nashville, you will find things favorable to your change. When do you intend to leave for Nashville? I suppose that will depend on the progress you make with your work in Mountain View.
(22LtMs, Lt 130, 1907, 5)
We will be pleased to see you at any time; the room you occupied is waiting for you. You can have it at any time, and for as long a time as you desire.
(22LtMs, Lt 130, 1907, 6)
Be of good courage in the Lord. Look to Him in faith. Let us know your plans when you have made your decisions.
(22LtMs, Lt 130, 1907, 7)
Lt 132, 1907
Ballenger, J. F. St. Helena, California April 4, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Ballenger:
We were made very sad to hear of your illness. It grieves me to the heart to hear of your affliction. But, my brother, do not be discouraged.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 1)
One thing after another has kept us from coming to Los Angeles and San Diego.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 2)
We have felt afflicted with you in the death of your mother, and we have prayed for you. Do not grieve so sorely. I know you must all feel deeply grieved by her loss, but you should take comfort in the fact that she did not suffer as many are called to suffer. I wish I had been with you to speak the words of comfort that I would desire to speak in her case: “Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord from henceforth; yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them. And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on His head a golden crown and in His hand a sharp sickle. And another angel came out of the temple crying with a loud voice to Him that sat upon the cloud, Thrust in Thy sickle and reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. And He that sat upon the cloud thrust in His sickle in the earth, and the earth was reaped.” [Revelation 14:12-16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 3)
When the Lord sees fit to remove me from my work by death, I do not want any to mourn for me; for one of authority has said, “Write, Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord from henceforth; yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.” [Verse 13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 4)
Father Ballenger, I want you to understand these words. I know you do not doubt that your wife was the Lord’s child. You will miss your companion, but you must not miss the comfort of the heavenly Messenger. “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord, from henceforth; yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.” [Verse 13.] Perilous times are just before us.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 5)
Brethren Ballenger, you have tried to bind up your lives with Christ in God. The Lord has wrought with you both, and you are obtaining an experience in the things of God. You have been made stewards of means, and you have tried to be faithful with the Lord’s entrusted capital. “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom the Lord shall make ruler over His household, to give them meat in due season?” [Matthew 24:45.] Blessed is that servant whom his Lord when He cometh shall find faithful in the discharge of his duty.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 6)
You are stewards of the mysteries of the grace of Christ. A sacred dignity and trust has been imposed upon you.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 7)
The means you have invested in faith in the cause of God is not lost. I also have means entrusted in the cause of present truth. Be assured that the Lord will not allow us to be losers by investing our means for the furtherance of His work. He has His eyes upon us, and upon that which we have returned to Him, and it is safe. Let us trust our heavenly Father, even when it is not easy to trust.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 8)
Be of good courage. Do not despond. Trust your heavenly Father to bring you out all right.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 9)
My heart is drawn out to you in sympathy and love. In your affliction you may have joy in the Lord. He loves you, and if you will look to Him, He will comfort and bless you. “I will not leave you comfortless,” He says, “I will come to you.” [John 14:18.] Put your trust in the Lord, and bear your trial patiently. You have worked for God in faith; He accepts your faith, and He will bless you.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 10)
I understand how great an affliction this is to you; and I can sympathize with you; for I have passed over the same ground.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 11)
You may be surprised that I have not written to you before. I would have done so but that I expected to be with you before this. Circumstances which we could not control have made it impossible to leave home; and so we have stayed on. We hope we can free ourselves soon. When we come we can tell you more about it. But if we do not come immediately, you will understand it is because we were unavoidably detained.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 12)
May the Lord bless you all.
(22LtMs, Lt 132, 1907, 13)
Lt 134, 1907
Gotzian, J. St. Helena, California April 5, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mrs. J. Gotzian Dear Sister Gotzian:
Many things have recently demanded my attention, and I have been unable to write to you, although I have desired to do so.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 1)
I had expected that long before this I would be with you at Paradise Valley. But matters have crowded in one after another, and it has been impossible to withdraw ourselves from the duties that have demanded our immediate attention.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 2)
For nearly a year the St. Helena Sanitarium has been crowded to its utmost capacity. Never before in its history has it received so large a patronage as at present. Nearly every day new patients come in, and the managers are greatly perplexed to know where to put them, but no one is denied admission. Often it has been necessary to make up beds for the helpers in the offices and parlors.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 3)
In the present buildings there are not suitable facilities for caring for the surgical cases. It has seemed necessary to provide for these afflicted ones a building to be used as a hospital. The plans have been drawn, and the work of construction will soon begin and will be hastened forward to completion. Already they are endeavoring to secure a contract for lumber. Last Wednesday I rode up the hillside to see the site they have selected for the new building. It is just beyond the house we put up on the side of the hill.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 4)
Those who come to the St. Helena Sanitarium regard it as one of the most beautiful places they have ever seen. They are charmed with the scenery and are well pleased with the services of Dr. Rand. Scarcely a word of complaint is heard from any of the patrons. We are glad of this, and we trust that many of them may be converted to the truth. We hope that the Lord may preside over our institution here on the hillside. We desire that there may be a manifestation of truth that will take hold upon the heart; for this is the purpose for which our sanitariums were established. With our present large patronage we certainly have a wonderful opportunity to reach many people, and to present before them the principles of true health reform.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 5)
We desire that from our sanitariums in Southern California the truth may go forth as a lamp that burneth. Let us do all we can to make the sanitarium at Paradise Valley a means of bringing the light of truth before many souls. Let every one connected with the institution put his heart and soul into this work. Let a pleasant spirit be manifested by all.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 6)
Everything possible should be done to make the foods palatable and enjoyable. Many come to our sanitariums with disease of the heart and soul as well as of the body. They are prone to complain if they are not suited. Earnest efforts should be put forth to provide for them suitable food to take the place of flesh meat, which is so objectionable.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 7)
Above all else let there be manifested the sweetness of the love of Christ. Words of bitterness or of complaint should find no place among the helpers. Make every room fragrant with the kindness of unselfish love. I write this because there is danger among physicians and helpers in a sanitarium of failing ever to maintain the sweet spirit of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 8)
I hope soon to be able to be with you, and to speak in the sanitarium to patients and helpers. I will come as soon as possible. May the Lord bless you and all your associates, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 134, 1907, 9)
Lt 136, 1907
McDearmon, Sister “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 25, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister McDearmon:
I have been very sorry to hear of your sickness. I wish that I could visit you; but this would seem a long journey to me, and my time is so taken up with duties that demand writing that I cannot leave my work to go so far away from home. I believe the Lord will raise you up to remain with us for a time. I am now five months in my eightieth year, and yet I continue my writing as diligently as when I was much younger.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 1)
I want to see you very much; if you recover, will you not come to California? If you do this, Edson and Emma will make a good home for you. There are nice places that they can rent, and I believe the climate of California will be better for you than that of Colorado. Will you not come if the Lord spares your life? We would not ask you to go to Battle Creek, for the climate there is cruel. In winter it is severely cold, and in the summer, very hot. We would prefer that you stay in Boulder rather than to go to Battle Creek.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 2)
Please consider my proposition, for it is as much for Emma’s benefit as for your own. It will be a blessing to her to have you with her. Nashville is not the best climate for her. Please make up your mind to try the climate of California, and then your little family can be together. You will be pleased with the change.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 3)
Later. April 8. I have been talking with Edson in reference to your coming to California. Edson feels that it is essential for him to be near a printing house. He has books to write; and if he is near a printing office, he can be a help to the office, and the office a help to him.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 4)
It will save time and money for you to move where Emma will be, and that is at Mountain View. The climate there is considered excellent. It is not too hot in summer, neither is it too cold in winter. It would be the best thing in the world for you to be where your daughter is, for she can have a care for you.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 5)
Now will you trust to our judgment and secure a good home in California? I write this because I verily believe that this would be an excellent place for you, my sister. If you come to Mountain View, we can visit you often; you are now so far away that we can not do this. The Lord has spared your life, for which we are thankful. And we hope that you will consent to come to Mountain View and that the climate may be an advantage to you. We do want the pioneers of this message to live as long as God wishes them to and to have every advantage.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 6)
Praise the Lord and keep your heart uplifted to Him, because He loves you. He has given His life for you. Keep up your courage, and trust in the Lord; for in Him is our hope and life. He will strengthen you, we believe.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 7)
With love to you and those who care for you.
(22LtMs, Lt 136, 1907, 8)
Lt 138, 1907
Simpson, W. W. St. Helena, California April 9, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder W. W. Simpson Dear Brother:
I am very sorry to learn of your sickness. We are praying for you, that the Lord may raise you to health again.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 1)
You have not spared yourself in the work, and the Lord has blessed your efforts; but your work is not done. Take the very best treatment you can possibly get, and improve every opportunity for getting well. Do not worry about anything. Be of good courage in the Lord; He will not leave you. The precious Saviour will be your helper and your God.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 2)
The Lord has graciously sustained me in my work this winter. I have not lost more than one or two days from my writing. I praise the Lord for His goodness; I will glorify His holy name.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 3)
We expected to be in Southern California long before this, but we have been hindered by unexpected circumstances. We are now waiting for Dr. Kress and family to arrive from Australia. He is expected to reach here about the first of next week. After a short visit in California, he will pass on to Washington to open the sanitarium at Takoma Park.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 4)
I see a great work to be done in the circulation of our books. Every worker will need to stand faithfully at his post of duty that Satan may not steal a march upon us through those who have departed from the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 5)
An effort has been made recently to secure the tabernacle at Battle Creek to the denomination, that those who have departed from the faith may not preach in it their seducing theories. A new board of trustees has been elected, and we think now that the tabernacle is secure.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 6)
There have been many things to do in order that the flock of God may be guarded against the wily attacks of the enemy. We must expect to meet the enemy in warfare to the close of time. We cannot spare any of our forces now. Every worker is needed to stand in his lot and place. A message must be continually going forth to prepare our people for the present and the future conflict. The Lord still lives; He is our leader and our God. He will safely lead and guard all those who will trust themselves to His guidance. Our confidence must be in the One who has brought us safely through so many battles.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 7)
Be of good courage in the Lord; hold fast to His promises. Do not fail or be discouraged. The Lord is good; His wisdom, His grace and love are never failing. Trust fully in Him, and you will see of His salvation.
(22LtMs, Lt 138, 1907, 8)
Lt 140, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma St. Helena, California April 8, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 103. Dear Emma and Edson:
I address you both, because by the time this reaches you, Edson will shortly be at home. I am very glad that Edson can transfer his work to Mountain View. The climate there I consider good, and I shall be pleased to have you so near us. Then with but little outlay of means you and our family can meet. If Sister McDearmon’s health will permit, she can move to Mountain View.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 1)
C. H. Jones is very desirous that Edson’s work shall blend with ours, and he thinks that by this move both will be advantaged. This may not be brought about at once, but I think we will all be benefited if it is done as soon as it consistently can be.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 2)
I trust, Emma, that your health will improve. Do not worry, and do not try to do work that will tax your strength. Be of good courage in the Lord. Jesus lives to make intercession for you. Cast your cares and worries upon the great Burden Bearer. He cares for the souls whom He has bought with the price of His own blood. The Lord has heard prayer in your behalf. May He guide you continually.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 3)
I should be very pleased to visit with you. Your new home must be a pleasant one. But the climate there is not a suitable one for you, and you must not endanger your health.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 4)
If Edson moves, he must be near a printing establishment, in order to work to advantage. He should be where he does not have to spend time and money in going from his home to a distant printing office.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 5)
W. C. White has his house well filled at present. Nora and Margaret, the sisters of May White, are with them, and the husband of Margaret, Mr. E. F. Forga, from Peru. Brother Forga is studying the English language. We think he will be able to translate my writings into the Spanish; for he is an educated man, and one who fears God. We believe that it is in the providence of God that he has been brought into connection with the work here.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 6)
Mabel and her husband Wilfred Workman were over for a few days. Mabel’s husband is a sincere Christian. He is an intelligent young man and is highly appreciated in the school at Healdsburg. He is carrying responsibilities in the school, and Mabel is acting as matron. They fill their positions nicely, and the school faculty is desirous of having them serve another year. It is probable that they will do this, for they want to accomplish all they can and be useful in the work of God. We have reason to be thankful that Mabel has a good and noble man for her husband. He is kind and attentive, and worthy of our appreciation.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 7)
Dores Robinson is much appreciated as a helper in my work. He is becoming an excellent speaker and will soon be in the ministry. He would have been in the field before this, but we have needed his help in my work. He reports my discourses and writes them out. Ella was a successful teacher before their marriage, and since their marriage they have both taught school, Dores taking the older scholars and Ella the younger. They were asked to remain in the school work, but we needed their help in preparing my writings for the press.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 8)
We feel so thankful to see these young men fitting themselves for places in the work. W. C. White is glad that he does not have to worry over the young men who have married his daughters.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 9)
Henry and Herbert are now eleven years old, and Grace is nearly seven. They are all apparently well.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 10)
I am very desirous of seeing you, but I will wait patiently the opening of providence that will bring us together. If you settle at Mountain View, it will be a pleasure to you to renew your acquaintance with Sister Jones. After so long a separation, you will enjoy associating together again.
(22LtMs, Lt 140, 1907, 11)
Lt 142, 1907
Wilcox, F. M. St. Helena, California April 9, 1907 Previously unpublished. F. M. Wilcox
Boulder, Colorado My dear Brother:
I write you a few lines hastily this morning. My son Edson left us yesterday, planning to visit several points in Oregon and Washington, and then pass on to Colorado.
(22LtMs, Lt 142, 1907, 1)
Edson thinks that he may settle at Mountain View, where he can be close to the Pacific Press. This will make his work of publishing books much easier, and we can counsel with him oftener.
(22LtMs, Lt 142, 1907, 2)
I hope that Sister McDearmon can come to Mountain View when Edson settles there. I would be glad to have you let me know if you think she would be able to make the journey.
(22LtMs, Lt 142, 1907, 3)
I would also be glad to hear from you in regard to the adjustment of matters at the sanitarium. Do not retain in the sanitarium those who persist in cherishing a quarrelsome spirit; for Satan uses such persons as his agents to do his work. We are living very near the end of time, and we need a work done in our sanitariums that will bring in a spirit of peace and invite the presence of the Lord. The grace of God and the peace of Christ are needed in every department of the sanitarium. If these are lacking, the work will move hard, [although we] do the best we can. Satan will work upon the hearts and minds of the workers, and there will be constant friction that will work counter to the influence of the Spirit of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 142, 1907, 4)
I counsel you to rid the sanitarium of unconverted workers; for it will not pay to retain them. The Spirit of God is of more value in an institution than helpers, however efficient, that are a constant irritation. Let us understand what God would have done in this matter, and cleanse the institution of all influences that would spoil the work that should be done. We are living too near the close of time to give place to the working of discord and friction.
(22LtMs, Lt 142, 1907, 5)
The Lord is grieved with the defects of character that are seen in the workers in our sanitariums. He desires to have the Boulder Sanitarium cleansed from every evil way. Those who minister there need to have the knife applied to their own lives before they can bear fruit to the glory of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 142, 1907, 6)
Pray, believe, and work until every forbidding element is removed. I am praying that the Lord will refine and purify every worker there. May the Lord keep you and guide you step by step.
(22LtMs, Lt 142, 1907, 7)
Lt 144, 1907
Brethren and Sisters in Battle Creek St. Helena, California April 11, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brethren and Sisters in Battle Creek:
I am instructed to say to those who desire to walk humbly with God, Fear not; neither be discouraged. The Lord is good, and greatly to be praised. Let us seek to understand the promises of His Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 1)
“Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God. Therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” [1 John 3:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 2)
A remedy is here offered us by the great Physician of souls. “He that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” [Verse 3.] If we will conform the desires of mind and body to God’s desire for us, we shall find that every requirement He makes of us is for our physical and spiritual health in this life, and if met by us, will secure for us the life that is everlasting in the kingdom of glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 3)
“My little children, these things write I unto you that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know Him if we keep His commandments. He that saith I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him. He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk even as He walked.” [1 John 2:1-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 4)
Read carefully verses seven to eleven of the second chapter of First John. In these verses it is shown that true conversion will always manifest itself in the character of the converted one. The characteristics that will mark these who become members of the Lord’s family are plainly depicted.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 5)
Who, as you read these words, can fail to understand that as the professing followers of Christ, you are called to exert a special influence for good in the world? Ask yourselves the question, What manner of person ought I to be in all holy conversation and godliness? Every true believer will represent in spirit, in conversation, and in deed the indwelling of a living principle that will make him one with Christ in representing the kingdom of God in the earth. His own daily conversion will produce definite results for Christ in the lives of others.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 6)
Those who are so abundantly encouraged by the hope of sonship with God should give expression to their gratitude by acting a part in His work in the earth. They are to increase the light they have received by permitting it to shine upon other souls, that it may be reflected from other lives. Their consecrated lives should reveal to their fellow men that they are controlled by immortal principles. And as they labor to extend the knowledge of truth in the world, they will become more and more competent in the work of saving souls. The light of heaven, reflected in their lives, will draw the minds of their fellow men from earthly things to heavenly. Christ, loved and obeyed and exalted in the lives of His followers, will produce results that will be true and abiding.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 7)
To every man God has given a work—no soul is excused who has made a profession of faith in Christ. Souls who are without the light are to be instructed in the doctrines of the Word. We are to be ever learning more fully what it means to be a Christian. We have a work to do in soul-winning through the influence of a holy life and a godly conversation. Christ’s earnest efforts for the salvation of men are to be repeated in the lives of His followers.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 8)
Our representation of the truth should be very different from what it appears today. Every believer should be drawing daily from the source of all power and concentrating every heavenly influence upon souls who are perishing. O that I could find words to express to you what I have seen would be accomplished if we as a people had that faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 9)
The powers which in the past have lain dormant should now be charged with new and living power. Benevolence and justice and mercy should mark the lives of church members. If God’s human agents would become active and expansive, they would fill the world with light and love.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 10)
In the warfare in which we are engaged, there will be conflicts to the very close of time. Satan is manifesting himself in a masterly way, that he may obtain possession of the human instrumentalities. By leading men and women to a love of worldly pleasure and display, he is charming the senses to the destruction of the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 11)
But while Satan is seeking to accomplish his work of destruction, Christ is seeking to save the world by His Word of truth. He laid aside His glory with the Father, and took upon Himself the nature of man, that as a man He might reach humanity, and as the Son of God, He might untie them to His divine nature. Thus He would make it possible for them to become partakers of the divine nature and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 12)
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] We need to comprehend more fully than we do the sacrifice of Christ for the salvation of our world. The angels of heaven were drawn to earth to study the mystery of incarnate love. That the Majesty of heaven should leave His high command, and come to this sin-cursed earth as a little child, and subject Himself to the poverty of the poor and the temptations of the tempted, was something that the heavenly beings could not understand.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 13)
The apostles studied the prophecies relating to the Messiah, and as they watched each step in the unfolding of this great and wonderful Benevolence, they accepted Christ as the Sent of God. They became partakers of His divine love and witnesses to the fallen world that “herein is love; not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and gave His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 14)
O what love, what matchless love was revealed when the Son of God stooped to earth to save fallen man. Men in all ages, as they have studied the sacrifice of Christ for a fallen world, and have realized the greatness of the Gift of God, have exclaimed with the apostle Paul, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Galatians 6:14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 15)
The disciples first proclaimed the gospel of Christ in Jerusalem. From that place they were to go forth to all parts of the known world to proclaim the tidings of God’s gift to a world of sinners. “Behold,” Christ said to them, “I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men; for they will deliver you up to the councils; and they will scourge you in their synagogues; and ye shall be brought before governors and kings for My sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak; for it shall be given you in that hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye which speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.” [Matthew 10:16-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 16)
All who understand the wonderful plan of salvation are included with those to whom Christ spoke when He gave the commission: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.] “Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:19, 20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 17)
Our church members need to realize, as they have not yet done, that they are under solemn obligation to unite with Christ and the heavenly angels in self-denying work for God. The angels of God are constantly at work that all nations may know the glories that cluster about the cross of Christ. Christ unites the sympathies of heaven with the church, His instrumentality on earth. He equips its members with the renewing power of the Holy Spirit, leaving no one an excuse for remaining unemployed, and then declares, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth; Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Matthew 28:18; Mark 16:15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 18)
God calls upon His people everywhere to awake and arouse to action. Let no one prescribe the great and solemn work that is to be done. Those who have been entrusted with the talent of means are to bear in mind that this talent is the Lord’s, to be used in the work of proclaiming the message to every kindred and nation and tongue and people. Then let God’s people accept their privilege of uniting with Him in the work that waits to be done, and claim the fulfilment of His promise, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 19)
“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God; looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garments spotted with the flesh.
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 20)
“Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy; to the only wise God our Saviour be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever, Amen.” [Jude 20-25.]
(22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, 21)
Lt 146, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California April 16, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder S. N. Haskell
South Lancaster, Massachusetts Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I received your letter on Monday, April 15; I was pleased to learn where you are.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 1)
I hope you will not shut yourselves away from the general work any longer than is essential. We need every worker in the field that can be secured. We consider, however, that you have done nobly.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 2)
I would be pleased to have you visit Melrose and see how things are going. I am somewhat troubled about Sister Nicola. Dr. Nicola has had an influence with Brother and Sister Nicola, especially through the wife. She has the strong Byington temperament—a very useful woman on the right side, and a dangerous element on the wrong side.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 3)
Dr. Kress and wife with their three children have arrived from Australia. They reached St. Helena on Sunday, April 14. They had a very pleasant voyage. We had a pleasant visit with them yesterday. Dr. Kress is a strongly built man and seems to be in sound health. His wife is considerably worn and needs to rest and take care of herself for a time. The daughter looks a picture of health. I have not seen the two younger children. They are staying at the sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 4)
On Sunday we leave for our long-talked-of trip to Southern California. Dr. Kress will accompany us. We would like to have them become acquainted with the sanitariums in Southern California, and he is desirous of making this visit. We are very glad to have Dr. Kress and his family in this field. As soon as this visit to the South has been made, we will hasten him on to Washington; for he is needed there.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 5)
It is now daylight. I will not write you much at this time; for I need every moment of my time to get done what writing I must do before I go. I shall not attempt to do much while I am away.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 6)
I am sorry that we shall not meet you in Southern California. There is a decided work to be done in that part of the field. It is my earnest desire that a wholesome influence shall be exerted by the workers who labor there. I pray that the Lord will work mightily, that everything may be set in order.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 7)
In a letter just received, I learn that Dr. Ross has gone to the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. I believe that he and his wife will do a good work there. Dr. Kellogg had no use for Dr. Ross. He would not sign his documents, and stories about him have been circulated that have hurt his influence. But I believe that Dr. Ross will make a good physician for the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, and I am glad that he is there. We were in desperate need of a physician for that place, and now that burden is taken from my mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 8)
I praise the Lord daily for His goodness and mercy and loving-kindness. Let us encourage gratitude in our hearts that He spares our lives to work for Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 146, 1907, 9)
Lt 148, 1907
Harper, Sister [Walter] NP April 16, 1907 [typed] This letter is published in entirety in TSB 74-75. + Mrs. Harper
418 N. Millwood St.
Wichita, Kansas Dear Sister Harper:
I have received your letter, and in reply to it I would say, I cannot advise you to return to Walter Harper unless you see decided changes in him. The Lord is not pleased with the ideas he has had in the past of what is due to a wife. At one time I spoke very plainly to Walter in regard to his responsibilities to his wife. It is very clear to me that it would be a mistake for you to be united again while your love for him is quenched. He cannot make you happy unless his views are changed.
(22LtMs, Lt 148, 1907, 1)
You have a duty to perform to your mother. You should not place yourself in a position where you would be miserable and unhappy; and if Brother Harper holds to his former views, the future would be no better for you than the past has been. He does not know how to treat a wife.
(22LtMs, Lt 148, 1907, 2)
I feel very sad about this matter. I feel indeed sorry for Walter, but I cannot advise you to go to him against your judgment. I speak to you as candidly as I spoke to him; it would be perilous for you to again place yourself under his dictation. I had hoped that he would change.
(22LtMs, Lt 148, 1907, 3)
Brother Harper can place his father in one of our sanitariums, where he will have good care. Your experience of the past is not to be repeated. When you are released from the care of your mother, you can act a part in one of our sanitariums.
(22LtMs, Lt 148, 1907, 4)
The Lord understands all about your experiences, Sister Harper. Be of good courage in the Lord; He will not leave you nor forsake you. My heart goes out in tenderest sympathy for you. Hang your helpless soul on Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 148, 1907, 5)
You know that not one word passed between you and me in regard to your going to Battle Creek, neither have you spoken to me concerning your life with Brother Harper in the past. Not a word of complaint have you made to me. The course you took in going to Battle Creek you took on your own responsibility, because you deemed it just and right; and this I do not condemn.
(22LtMs, Lt 148, 1907, 6)
Now, my dear sister, you have obtained a knowledge of how to treat the sick, and your help is needed in our sanitarium work. When you write, please tell me in regard to your mother’s health.
(22LtMs, Lt 148, 1907, 7)
Lt 150, 1907
Workers at Paradise Valley Sanitarium St. Helena, California April 17, 1907 Previously unpublished. To the workers at Paradise Valley Sanitarium:
I address a few words to you this morning.
(22LtMs, Lt 150, 1907, 1)
I am glad that Dr. Ross has united with the workers at the sanitarium. The acquaintance I have had with Dr. Ross has been a very pleasant one. I know him to be courteous and kindly, and I have always looked upon him as a Christian gentleman. Years ago he refused to come under the ruling powers at the Battle Creek Sanitarium; and because he refused to sign certain documents, he was spoken against, and his influence was injured.
(22LtMs, Lt 150, 1907, 2)
Our strength and help is in God. Christ is the head of the church, and He expects every Christian to surrender to His will and live for His glory. The influence of each is to result in bringing many sons and daughters to God. We meet a great number of unconverted people every day, and we have an individual work to do in leading these souls to Christ. The people who shall compose the family of God above are to be united as a family here on earth. All power in heaven and earth will combine with their efforts for the conversion of souls. The Ruler of the universe, through the gift of His Son, has reconciled all things unto Himself, and has organized companies, that they may attain to perfection of character through obedience to the truth and by becoming co-workers with His church in heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 150, 1907, 3)
Matchless love for a fallen world was expressed in the commission Christ gave to His disciples, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature;”“and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 150, 1907, 4)
My fellow workers, pray for that which the Spirit alone can impart. Cultivate kindness and love and respect for each other. Let each do his appointed work according to his ability.
(22LtMs, Lt 150, 1907, 5)
I hope to visit you soon.
(22LtMs, Lt 150, 1907, 6)
Lt 152, 1907
Brethren in Battle Creek St. Helena, California April 17, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PC 77-80. + To the brethren in Battle Creek:
I speak to the believers in Battle Creek: Cling to the Lord with mind and heart. Give heed to the warnings that the Lord has sent, and you will not be overcome by Satan’s delusions. You will have trials to meet; but if you will look to the Lord, He will be your strong tower, to which you may run and be safe.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 1)
My heart aches when I consider the stubborn resistance on the part of some to the truth we have held for half a century. Night after night I cannot sleep. My soul is bowed down with heavy burdens when I consider that some of my old friends and some of my own relatives are refusing to walk in the light that God is sending by His Holy Spirit. O that the Searcher of hearts would arouse these souls to realize their true condition. I call to mind the trial that Christ was called to endure when He was rejected by the members of His own family. “Neither did His own brethren believe in Him”—this must have been one of the cruelest of His many trials. [John 7:5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 2)
May the Lord open the blind eyes, that the men who have withstood the counsels and warnings of God, and have acted as though it were a virtue to resist the instruction of the Holy Spirit, may discern their true condition. I have written to Frank Belden, and to Russell Hart, but my appeals have not moved them. They continue to reveal what manner of spirit has taken possession of them.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 3)
In my dreams I seem to be pleading with the believers in Battle Creek. I am so burdened for these souls who seem determined to fight against the message sent, that I awake in the night pleading with God to open the blind eyes.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 4)
I thank the Lord that there are many who can discern now, if not before, the spirit that has taken possession of those who resist the warnings of the Spirit of God. I am bidden to say to the believers in Battle Creek, Press together. Let no words be spoken to irritate or provoke. Stand firmly in the faith in which God has led us for the last fifty years.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 5)
Time is passing into eternity. Many who ought to have keen perceptions are blinded by false theories and false influences. They are unready to meet the last great conflict, and they do not realize their unprepared condition. My prayer for them is: “O Thou Searcher of hearts, let Thy Word, which is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, pierce to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. Bring these souls who are in so great peril because of their lack of discernment to realize that they must cope with satanic powers.”
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 6)
Many are closing their hearts against the Holy Spirit of God. Many who once understood the workings of the Spirit of God, Christ does not own today. O that God would stir the hearts of those who have once walked in the light, but who now walk in darkness; who have once known what it meant to have the grace of God in their hearts, but who are now destitute of that grace. They have had the light of the Spirit of God, but in their blindness, they have quenched that light, and they are now under the condemnation of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 7)
Who have a realization of the conditions of the unbelieving world? Who are preparing their hearts to receive the impressions of the Spirit of God? Those who receive the light, and walk in the light, will have increased light.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 8)
In these last days God called for united efforts from His people. Never was there a time when there was greater need of the deep movings of the Spirit of God than now when we are called to contend with men imbued with the spirit of Satan. Those who have departed from the faith will make manifest that they were led away by seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and that these have taken possession of the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 9)
What an account must be rendered to God by those who are planting themselves on Satan’s side. I am praying that God will anoint their eyes with eyesalve, that they may see their peril and escape from their dangerous position as quickly as possible. When these poor souls realize that they have lost time, lost experience which should have made them wise unto salvation, they will understand that they have been working on the enemy’s side. Then they will ask themselves, What have I been teaching to others? What has been my testimony for truth and righteousness? How does my record stand in the books of heaven?
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 10)
“Then came the word of the Lord unto Jeremiah, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Go and tell the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Will ye not receive instruction to hearken to My words? saith the Lord.... I have sent also unto you all My servants the prophets, rising up early and sending them, saying, Return ye now every man from his evil way, and amend your doings, and go not after other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which I shall give you and to your fathers: but ye have not inclined your ear, nor harkened unto Me.... Therefore thus saith the Lord God of hosts, the God of Israel, Behold, I will bring upon Judah and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the evil that I have pronounced against them; because I have spoken unto them, but they have not heard; and I have called unto them, and they have not answered.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 11)
“And Jeremiah said unto the house of the Rechabites, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Because ye have obeyed the commandment of Jonadab your father, and kept all his precepts, and done according unto all that he hath commanded you: therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not want a man to stand before Me for ever.” [Jeremiah 35:12, 13, 15, 17-19.]
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 12)
As a people we need to study this portion of sacred history; for these experiences are being brought into the lives of the people of God in these last days. A people who have had great light, and every evidence of truth, are turning away from the light and following their own impulses. The instruction God has given in the record of His people in early days is not regarded. The mistakes and sins of His early people are being repeated in His people today; the warnings and admonitions given in that day are not being heeded in this. Notwithstanding all the warnings that have been given, they see not their danger, but join the ranks of the enemy and fight on his side. They choose to entertain their own ideas and to follow the suggestions of their own minds. The Lord is greatly dishonored by their course, and He is removing His Spirit from them. “Shall I not judge them for these things,” saith the Lord, “unless they repent?” [See Jeremiah 5:9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 13)
In the thirty-sixth chapter of Jeremiah is recorded an act on the part of Jehoiakim, king of Judah, that our people would do well to study. “And it came to pass in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, that this word came unto Jeremiah from the Lord, saying, Take thee a roll of a book, and write therein all the words that I have spoken unto thee, from the days of Josiah, even unto this day. It may be that the house of Judah will hear all the evil which I purpose to do unto them; that they may return every man from his evil way; that I may forgive their iniquity and their sin. Then Jeremiah called Baruch the son of Neriah: and Baruch wrote from the mouth of Jeremiah all the words of the Lord, which He had spoken unto him, upon the roll of a book.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 14)
“And Jeremiah commanded Baruch, saying, I am shut up; I cannot go into the house of the Lord: therefore go thou, and read in the roll, which thou hast written from my mouth, the words of the Lord in the ears of the people in the Lord’s house upon the fasting day: and also thou shalt read them in the ears of all Judah that come out of their cities. It may be they will present their supplication before the Lord, and will return every one from his evil way: for great is the anger and the fury that the Lord hath pronounced against this people. And Baruch the son of Neriah did according to all that Jeremiah the prophet commanded him, reading in the book the words of the Lord in the Lord’s house....
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 15)
“When Michaiah the son of Gemariah, the son of Shaphan, had heard out of the book all the words of the Lord, then he went down into the king’s house, into the scribe’s chamber: and, lo, all the princes sat there.... Then Michaiah declared unto them all the words that he had heard, when Baruch read the book in the ears of the people. Therefore all the princes sent Jehudi ... unto Baruch, saying, Take in thine hand the roll wherein thou hast read in the ears of the people, and come. So Baruch the son of Neriah took the roll in his hand, and came unto them. And they said unto him, Sit down now, and read it in our ears. So Baruch read it in their ears.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 16)
“Now it came to pass, when they had heard all the words, that they were afraid, both one and other, and said unto Baruch, We will surely tell the king all these words. And they asked Baruch, saying, Tell us now, How didst thou write all these words at his mouth? Then Baruch answered them, He pronounced all these words unto me with his mouth, and I wrote them with ink in the book. Then said the princes unto Baruch, Go, hide thee, thou and Jeremiah; and let no man know where ye be.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 17)
“And they went in to the king into the court, but they laid up the roll in the chamber of Elishama the scribe, and told all the words in the ears of the king. So the king sent Jehudi to fetch the roll: and he took it out of Elishama the scribe’s chamber. And Jehudi read it in the ears of the king, and in the ears of all the princes which stood beside the king.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 18)
“Now the king sat in the winter house in the ninth month: and there was a fire on the hearth burning before him. And it came to pass when Jehudi had read three or four leaves, he cut it with the penknife, and cast it into the fire that was on the hearth, until all the roll was consumed in the fire that was upon the hearth. Yet they were not afraid, nor rent their garments; neither the king, nor any of his servants that heard all these words. Nevertheless Elnathan and Delaiah and Gemariah had made intercession to the king that he would not burn the roll: but he would not hear them.” [Verses 1-8, 11-25.]
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 19)
Some in the experience of the past few years have virtually repeated the act of King Jehoiakim in burning the messages of the Spirit of God. But today as of old the messages of warning have been repeated.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 20)
“Then the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah, after that the king had burned the roll, and the words which Baruch spake at the mouth of Jeremiah, saying, Take thee again another roll, and write in it all the former words that were in the first roll, which Jehoiakim the king of Judah hath burned. And thou shalt say to Jehoiakim king of Judah, Thus saith the Lord; Thou hast burned this roll saying, Why hast thou written therein, saying, The king of Babylon shall certainly come and destroy this land, and shall cause to cease from thence man and beast? Therefore thus saith the Lord of Jehoiakim king of Judah; He shall have none to sit upon the throne of David: and his dead body shall be cast out in the day to the heat, and in the night to the frost. And I will punish him and his seed and his servants for their iniquity; and I will bring upon them and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and upon the men of Judah, all the evil that I have pronounced against them; but they harkened not.” [Verses 27-31.]
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 21)
The Lord has been trifled with by His people. The time that should have been devoted to repentance and reform has been spent in criticism and in following man-formed opinions and ideas. A terrible influence for evil is exerted when men turn from the right way to follow selfish devisings. Satan is playing the game of life for the souls of men, and he is gaining victory after victory. We can learn from a study of King Jehoiakim’s example what men will do when they pass the boundary line. We see it in the persecution and suffering that Christ endured at the hands of wicked men. We see it in the treatment that the Lord’s faithful servants in every age have received.
(22LtMs, Lt 152, 1907, 22)
Lt 154, 1907
Washburn, J. S. St. Helena, California April 17, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 408-409. Elder J. S. Washburn Dear Brother Washburn:
I have just received and read your letter, in which you tell me about your visits to the colleges in Nashville. I am so glad that you are beginning to understand why our work should be located in Nashville. A wide interest should be manifested for the colored people.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 1)
We ought to have in Nashville a first-class sanitarium established for the colored people, that shall be conducted by physicians and workers who will do their work wisely. The colored people of the South are to become educated workers; through the reception of the gospel they are to become teachers of the gospel to their own people.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 2)
Brother Washburn, you and your co-laborers should ever bear in mind that you are in a missionary field where a grand, all-round work is to be done for God. The heathen are right about you. Should you follow the course that has been pursued in the past toward the colored people, you would not fulfil your duty. The Lord calls for missionary work to be done. Those who make the South their field of labor are not to perpetuate the prejudice that has existed in the past against the colored people. They are not to pass them by with little or no attention. The teachers of the truth are to labor for this neglected race, and by their efforts win the respect, not only of the colored people, but of the workers in other denominations.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 3)
May the Lord bless you in this work is my earnest prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 4)
The words that Christ spoke to His disciples, when He sent them forth the first time, will sometimes apply to the experiences of the worker today. “Behold,” He said, “I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves.” You will need to understand how to meet all classes. “Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” [Matthew 10:16.] “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, (black as well as white), how shall He not,” the apostle asks, “with Him also freely give us all things?” [Romans 8:32.] Well might the apostle also ask, “How shall we not all freely give Him our most devoted service?”
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 5)
We need to study the life of Him who, though He was rich, yet for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. Then we shall not be unwilling to give kind, disinterested labor to those who need it.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 6)
Do not lose interest in the work for the colored people. Do not rest until sanitarium work is established for them, both at the Huntsville school and at Nashville. In the past much labor has been given to this people under the most trying circumstances; and you should not overlook what has been done by the hardest kind of labor. Do not ignore what has been done, but unite your sympathies with the sympathies and labors of those who have gone before you and prepared the way. God help you and give you wisdom to know how to treat your fellow workers. Christian instrumentality is a wonderful thing. If its place in the divine economy is appreciated as it should be, the workers will appreciate more than they do what has been accomplished in the southern field.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 7)
When I first visited the South, I learned many things regarding the work that had been done there; and when I can do so, I will have a history of that work published. Those who did not take part in it cannot fully understand how much of self-denial and sacrifice it called for.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 8)
I hope you will follow up the work begun in Nashville, for there is much to be done for all classes in that city. Do not forget that there is an important work to be done in the schools for the colored people in that city. Give special attention to the colleges established there. Much labor has been expended in educational lines of work by other denominations.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 9)
We must not treat the colored people as though God had no message for them. Become acquainted with the teachers. Encourage them in their work, and take a part with them in their labors when this is possible. The gospel in its simplicity is to be presented to this people. If you will labor in the Spirit of Christ, conversions to the truth will be the result of this work.
(22LtMs, Lt 154, 1907, 10)
Lt 156, 1907
Washburn, J. S. St. Helena, California April 18, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 410-411. Elder J. S. Washburn Dear Brother:
I am sorry that you should make any excuse for withholding your sympathy from the workers in Madison. It is true that they have made some mistakes; but they have confessed their errors with brokenness of heart and have done what they could to rectify their mistakes. After I had pointed out to them their wrong, and they had confessed it, we prayed together, and the Spirit of the Lord rested upon them. Then I could say to them, The Lord has pardoned your transgression.
(22LtMs, Lt 156, 1907, 1)
My brother, you would have had evidence of this, if you had taken pains to see them often and bind up their sympathies with yours. It was your privilege, instead of judging them, to speak to them kindly; instead of treating them with coldness, to give them your kindness and sympathy and love.
(22LtMs, Lt 156, 1907, 2)
You have been represented to me as holding yourself aloof from these brethren. Had you gone to them in the Spirit of Christ, and studied with them the needs of the field, you would have said, These brethren need some of the means we are handling. Had you inquired into their needs, and advocated the dividing with them of the means given for the work in that field, considering that “All ye are brethren” [Matthew 23:8], you would have done a work well pleasing to the Lord. Those who withdraw their sympathy and help from their fellow laborers, God will deal with in a way to show them His displeasure.
(22LtMs, Lt 156, 1907, 3)
God does not require His servants all to work in precisely the same way. Each worker should thank God that he has a part in the Lord’s vineyard, and each should believe that the Lord is leading his brother workers as verily as he believes that the Lord is leading him. The words of Christ, “All ye are brethren,” should ever be kept in mind. [Verse 8.] The spirit that leads the workers to measure themselves among themselves, and to estimate the value of a worker according to human judgment, is not the Spirit of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 156, 1907, 4)
Wherever you labor, come close to your brethren. Bear in mind that the Holy Spirit is the converter and sanctifier of the soul. The power of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is pledged to every believer, to preserve unity and love, and to sustain him in his labor for the recovery of lost souls. When we are united with Christ, we will co-operate harmoniously for the salvation of souls. There is no miracle of mercy unperformed, no angel left undirected, that is necessary for the work of uniting God’s people in the grand work of saving souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 156, 1907, 5)
The Madison School needs our help just as truly as help was needed for the sanitarium. The brethren connected with that school have done an excellent work. In their efforts to combine manual labor with other school work, all have gained a valuable experience. The Lord has not been pleased with your indifference toward the school.
(22LtMs, Lt 156, 1907, 6)
The Madison School is in the very place to which we were directed by the Lord, in order that it might have an influence and make a right impression upon the people. The Lord has been dishonored by the indifferent treatment given to the workers in this school by their fellow workers. They need encouragement and good, wholesome fellowship, and they are as verily deserving of it as are other workers in the southern field.
(22LtMs, Lt 156, 1907, 7)
Lt 158, 1907
Friends who are caring for Elder Simpson Loma Linda, California April 26, 1907 Previously unpublished. To the friends who are caring for Elder Simpson:
I feel impressed to recommend for your consideration the use of charcoal as a powerful agency for removing poison from the system. I have on several occasions been impressed to suggest the use of charcoal, and it has often brought relief when every other means had failed.
(22LtMs, Lt 158, 1907, 1)
When we were in Texas, one of our neighbors was taken sick because of imprudence in eating. The organs of excretion failed to act properly, and his system was poisoned. He was in terrible agony. His family sent for me to come and pray for him. Then it was impressed upon my mind to send some one to the blacksmith’s for charcoal, pulverize it, and place it as a poultice over the entire abdomen. This was done, and the effect produced was wonderful.
(22LtMs, Lt 158, 1907, 2)
This brother had intended to be one of a party to go with a number of teams through Texas, but because of his illness he was left behind. The next day, however, as we were resting, we looked back and saw a team crossing the ferry. When it can nearer, we saw with it our brother who had been so ill.
(22LtMs, Lt 158, 1907, 3)
On several other occasions I have seen the charcoal poultice tried with favorable results.
(22LtMs, Lt 158, 1907, 4)
Lt 160, 1907
Starr, Brother and Sister [J. A.] Loma Linda, California April 30, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 129. Dear Brother and Sister Starr:
A message has been given to me for you. The Lord has in His work a place for you both. You have been greatly tried, but through all your trials the Lord’s grace and His loving care have been over you both. The angels of God have been round about you. As you have sought the Lord, His Spirit has ever been ready to guide you into right paths.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 1)
Brother Starr, it is your privilege and your duty to resist steadfastly the suggestions of the enemy that tend to discouragement. The Lord has permitted you to be brought into strait places, but He has preserved you. He has enabled you to discern between the true and the false. It has pleased Him that, even under great stress of circumstances, you have refused flattering, worldly inducements, that would have led you to dishonor Him. In His great love for you, He has kept you from permitting flattering, worldly inducements, or the opportunity to avail yourself of large advantages, to take away your uppermost desire to maintain your communion with God, and to remain with your feet ever planted upon the platform of eternal truth. You have felt that full communion with the living God is more to be desired than great gifts or a life of ease. The honor of God must be preserved at any cost.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 2)
You have gained victories, where many would have found excuse to receive a bribe of seeming advantages. Through the pure truth of the Word, you have preserved your integrity. Had you yielded the principles of truth, the enemy would have prevailed and God would have been dishonored.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 3)
In the books of heaven is registered your determination to keep the way of the Lord. God has marked the power of the truth implanted in the soul to control the actions of the life. The conscientious and steadfast maintenance of right under tests that have been brought to bear testify that correct principles have been held sacred. In the sight of Him who has said, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold, even the golden wedge of Ophir,” it is written of you, “Kept by the power of God through temptation.” [Isaiah 13:12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 4)
Brother Starr, you are not to demerit the experiences through which you have passed. God has been nigh you, angels have preserved you. Let His keeping power be to you an evidence of His love. Resist the power of unbelief, and glorify God by holding fast the truth in faith. With your whole heart say, I believe in the power of Christ to save and to keep. He will help you to maintain truth in the inner court of the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 5)
We are living amid the perils of the last days. The Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the earth, but the Lord has not left you, my brother. I am bidden to encourage you to believe that your life has not been wasted. Wake up, my brother, and the Lord will guide you to the work He has for you. But do not longer please the enemy by yielding to the temptation to despair. Let the truth of God be to your soul as the sunshine and the vital air.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 6)
My brother, will you not co-operate with the great Healer? It is necessary that you exercise your muscles as well as your nerves. While you are here at Loma Linda, or wherever you may be, do not neglect physical exercise. The hands, the feet, all the muscular organs were created for action. And if you do not exercise these organs and your brain power proportionately, you will lose that vitality which you should preserve.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 7)
The Lord has instructed me to tell you that you are to use the members of the body as well as the brain. Find something that you can do about the place, and make it a special charge to use the limbs and also the organs of speech. God gave these members for use, not to remain idle.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 8)
Many people come to our sanitariums who have thought they could not exercise their muscles. I remember one of our workers who some years ago came to the institution in St. Helena. He was so weak he felt he could not arise from his bed. The physician in charge of the case told me, I see no hope for him unless we can get him off from the bed and make use of his limbs and his mind in some way. I advised the doctor to persuade the patient to dress himself for a short walk for the purpose of asking his opinion about something. It proved to be a difficult matter to get him off his bed, but he succeeded; and again the next day, he went a little farther. After three weeks, the man needed no further urging, and he soon acquired a good appetite for hygienic food. This was seventeen years ago, and the man is still alive, strong in brain, bone, and muscle.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 9)
My brother, you cannot be what you should be physically unless you exercise the powers of your being equally. I recommend to you, as one of the Lord’s remedial agencies, that you take right hold and work for a period of time each day, lightly at first, but gradually increase your labor. You can spend part of your time in the office helping Sister Burden, but you should not neglect to find some work that will bring into action the hands and limbs. This is the Lord’s prescription for you.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 10)
I shall now leave this matter with you. The Lord is your Helper and your God. He desires to take your case in hand, and He will co-operate with you, as you put in working order brain, bone, and muscle. Will you take this prescription of the great Physician? You will never gain strength in turning your thoughts upon yourself and in brooding over the past or in worry for the future. You can do for yourself what no one else can do for you. I beseech of you to try this remedy.
(22LtMs, Lt 160, 1907, 11)
Lt 162, 1907
White, W. C. “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California May 8, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 60. Elder W. C. White My dear Son:
We are still here at the sanitarium. Yesterday Dores and Peter Wessels went to Tijuana, Mexico, and to the Sweetwater Dam.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 1)
In the forenoon I had an interview with Brother and Sister Magan. He told me that he did not feel free in consenting for the Madison School to undertake to operate a food enterprise five miles away from their headquarters. He feels that they must be careful and not undertake too many lines. Unless great care is exercised, he fears that Brother Sutherland will lose his life. He did not make quite such a strong statement as this, but I respect his judgment in this matter.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 2)
Since you left I have had some serious impressions. I cannot undertake to engage in such an enterprise as that we talked over. It would be very difficult for me to carry out the suggestions regarding my working in Redlands with Sister Starr.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 3)
I write this after due consideration yesterday and the past night. I shall, after visiting San Pasqual, go as we planned to Loma Linda and spend a little time there, as seems to be in harmony with the will of God; but I do not feel that it is my duty to take on additional burdens in opening up the work in Redlands. I want to keep myself where I can fill in when it is necessary, but I must shun every burden possible. I have a solemn, sacred work, and I must keep my mind free from worry and anxiety, so far as possible, that I may receive and impart to others the impressions of the Spirit of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 4)
I do not feel free to ask the Caro family to come to Southern California unless I see plainly that the Lord has opened the way for them. Let them remain where they are for the present, until we see clear light ahead. They seem to be placed in our charge, and we must exercise a responsibility in planning wisely for them. In no case would I place them in a position where I would not desire to be placed were I in a like situation.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 5)
I find myself frequently placed where I dare give neither assent nor dissent to propositions that are submitted to me; for there is danger that any words I may speak shall be reported as something that the Lord has given me. It is not always safe for me to express my own judgment; for sometimes when someone wishes to carry out his own purpose, he will regard any favorable word I may speak as special light from the Lord. I shall be cautious in all my movements.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 6)
I feel deeply burdened as I see the conditions existing among the church members in San Diego. Strange representations have been given me of plans and of actions that are not profitable for true Christian experience.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 7)
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside very weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” [Hebrews 12:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 8)
We must not, for any consideration, urge Edson to use his brain power at the present time. The danger of this has been pointed out to me. He is rather in need of restraint, until he gets his bearings. Should he come to California as soon as possible, and work with Brother Crisler, the difficulty might be greatly lessened. In the visions of the night, I have been shown that he is in great danger of disqualifying himself for future usefulness. He has had the trial of sending away his wife, who herself is in a precarious condition of health.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 9)
In view of the things that have been often repeated to me, we would make a mistake in urging Edson to complete his book when he is so unsettled and troubled in mind. Let us rather encourage him to get away from Nashville as soon as possible, where he may have a change in surroundings. For the saving of his physical and spiritual health we must treat him tenderly. I am sorry that I did not think of some of these cautions before you left. Let us act wisely in this matter.
(22LtMs, Lt 162, 1907, 10)
Lt 164, 1907
White, J. E. National City, California May 7, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in PC 228. Elder J. E. White Dear Son Edson:
I have received your letters, and I write to assure you that, in harmony with what W. C. White has written to you, I will provide the means that may be necessary to secure and hold the property that you desired to rent in Mountain View, if you still feel sure you want it. I have made arrangements to receive a loan of some money from Sister Gotzian, and this I will receive as soon as it can be sent to her from Oregon.
(22LtMs, Lt 164, 1907, 1)
In many places I see great need for the investment of means in the cause of God. Next week I expect to return to Loma Linda, and while there I will do what I can to help forward the work in the surrounding cities. I desire to invest some means in the work in these places. I hope to find opportunity to speak to our people in that locality and to arouse them to a sense of their responsibility to hold up the light of truth. If, before I leave Loma Linda, I can see the right work begun, I shall not then feel pressed as a cart beneath sheaves after I return home.
(22LtMs, Lt 164, 1907, 2)
Mrs. Doctor Starr has been doing a good work in San Bernardino. She has been giving education in health principles and has found access to many fine homes. I hope to strengthen her hands and give her encouragement to continue the work in Redlands and Riverside.
(22LtMs, Lt 164, 1907, 3)
In a few weeks there is a camp-meeting at St. Helena, and I have promised to attend; so I must soon return home.
(22LtMs, Lt 164, 1907, 4)
Our church members need to arouse, that they may give the truth, putting forth every effort possible to make that truth appear in all its Bible strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 164, 1907, 5)
Lt 166, 1907
White, W. C. Loma Linda, California May 13, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder W. C. White Dear Son Willie:
We have just returned to Loma Linda. We felt it to be our duty to visit San Pasqual and Escondido, where we had never been before.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 1)
We had telephoned to Dr. Judson, and two teams from San Pasqual met us at Escondido station. Brother Olmstead urged us to stay with him over night, and I did indeed feel tired; but when I thought of Sister Judson’s driving back alone, I decided that it was better to go on with them.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 2)
I spent Friday at Dr. Judson’s, and on Sabbath spoke in the little church near her house. Many had come over from Escondido and the house was packed full. I was surprised to see Brother Oswald Stowell walk in and take a seat near the front. I was glad to see him and gave him a hearty hand shake. The Lord gave me freedom in speaking from the fifteenth chapter of John. I hope that the words spoken will have a good effect. A work needs to be done in San Pasqual and Escondido. Our brethren are giving themselves too much to the tilling of the land, and the truth has not had the attention it should have.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 3)
Dores and Sister Gotzian missed the train at Oceanside and were driven over to Escondido. They reached Brother Olmstead’s at half-past eleven and stayed there till the next day. Dores spoke to the church at San Pasqual Friday evening, also evening after the Sabbath, and Brother Ballenger preached Sabbath afternoon at San Pasqual; and at Escondido Sunday evening, he spoke on some of the signs of Christ’s Second Coming.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 4)
Sunday forenoon Dr. Judson drove us over to Escondido to the home of Brother Olmstead. I was interested to learn that Brother Olmstead was acquainted with us when your father was alive. He spoke of meetings and incidents that happened thirty years ago. He has two sons at Fernando attending the school, both preparing to take up missionary work. I read a letter from one who expects to take up the ministry. It was written intelligently and modestly.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 5)
I was surprised to find that there were so many in the neighborhood with whom I was acquainted. I would have been pleased to have visited with them all, but I knew that this was out of the question, for I was carrying heavy burdens for Paradise Valley and was obliged to save my strength for speaking in the afternoon.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 6)
Our meeting in Escondido was marked by the special influence of the Spirit of God. I had good freedom in speaking from Second Peter chapter one. I spoke decidedly upon the subject of living upon the plan of addition, adding grace to grace. I dealt with the temperance question and urged the necessity of overcoming every intemperate habit. The church was crowded, many being from the outside. Brother Ballenger told me there were three ministers present, one a Christian minister, one a Baptist, and one a Congregational. All listened with the deepest interest. I felt that our visit to these two churches had proved a great blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 7)
Sister Gotzian visited a Brother and Sister Buckley at Escondido, who had twelve hundred dollars in the bank. Sister Gotzian told them of the needs of Paradise Valley, and they consented to lend one thousand dollars to the institution. Brother Ballenger and Sister Gotzian remained till Tuesday morning, that they might visit some of the people with means.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 8)
Monday morning we took the train for Loma Linda. We changed cars at Oceanside, Orange, and Colton, and reached our destination at about half-past two.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 9)
I have had a talk with Brother Burden since coming here. He has told me about the meeting of the W. C. T. U. at Redlands, and the openings it has created for Dr. Starr. He feels decidedly that now is the time to work Redlands, and Riverside, and San Bernardino. Now I must take a little rest. I find traveling on the cars, especially where there are so many changes, is very tiring.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 10)
Tuesday morning, May 13. I have a beautiful view looking east from my windows. Now at five o’clock the sun is shining brightly. I am glad the weather is warmer here than it has been where we have been. I am glad to be here; for I feel more at home. Brother Burden has arranged for me to speak at Redlands next Sabbath. Then I will make an appointment to speak at Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon. I will write you more later.
(22LtMs, Lt 166, 1907, 11)
Lt 168, 1907
Magan, P. T. Loma Linda, California May 14, 1907 This letters is published in entirety in SpM 411-412. Professor P. T. Magan Dear Brother Magan:
I bear positive testimony that you and your fellow workers in Madison are doing the work that God has appointed to you. There was in your mind at first a question regarding this, but as you have advanced, you have been able to see the way of the Lord more clearly.
(22LtMs, Lt 168, 1907, 1)
The attitude of opposition or indifference on the part of some of your brethren has created conditions that have made your work more difficult than it should have been. You have not received from some very many words of encouragement, but the Lord is pleased that you have not been easily discouraged.
(22LtMs, Lt 168, 1907, 2)
Some have entertained the idea that because the school at Madison is not owned by a conference organization, those who are in charge of the school should not be permitted to call upon our people for the means that is greatly needed to carry on their work. This idea needs to be corrected. In the distribution of the money that comes into the Lord’s treasury, you are entitled to a portion just as verily as are those connected with other needy enterprises that are carried forward in harmony with the Lord’s instruction.
(22LtMs, Lt 168, 1907, 3)
The Lord Jesus will one day call to account those who would so tie your hands that it is almost impossible for you to move in harmony with the Lord’s bidding. “The silver and the gold is Mine, saith the Lord, and the cattle upon a thousand hills.” [Haggai 2:8; Psalm 50:10.] You and your associates are not novices in educational work; and when you are in stress for means with which to advance the work, you are just as much entitled to ask for that which you need as are other men to present the necessities of the work in which they are engaged.
(22LtMs, Lt 168, 1907, 4)
You have in the past done much to bring means into circulation in the work of God. And you need not now feel troubled about accepting gifts and freewill offerings; for you will need them in the work of preparing young men and young women to labor in the Lord’s vineyard. As you carry on this work in harmony with the Lord’s bidding, you are not to be kept on a constant strain to know how to secure the means you need in order to go forward. The Lord forbids the setting up of walls and bands around workers of experience who are faithfully acting their God-appointed part.
(22LtMs, Lt 168, 1907, 5)
Much precious time has been lost because manmade rules and restrictions have been sometimes placed above the plans and purposes of God. In the name of the Lord I appeal to our conference workers to strengthen and support and labor in harmony with our brethren at Madison, who are carrying forward a work that God has appointed them.
(22LtMs, Lt 168, 1907, 6)
Lt 170, 1907
Campbell, M. N.; Amadon, G. A. “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California May 6, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PC 117-119. Elder M. N. Campbell and G. A. Amadon Dear Brethren:
I am now visiting the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Since I came here last Wednesday, I have spoken twice to the workers in the institution and to the church in San Diego Sabbath morning and Sunday afternoon.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 1)
Wherever I go I try to emphasize the fact that our success in missionary effort is dependent upon the character we manifest. The truth of the Word of God, obeyed and carried out in earnest action after the divine pattern, will bring sure results. But if we yield to worldly influences, there will be a decline of Christian zeal and devotion and a corresponding failure to win souls to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 2)
The church is to increase in activity and to enlarge her bounds. Our missionary efforts are to be expansive; we must enlarge our borders. There must be action and reaction. The work of educating our youth must be maintained and increased. They are to be taught to reach higher and still higher, pressing toward the standard of genuine Christian education.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 3)
While there have been fierce contentions in the effort to maintain our distinctive character, yet we have as Bible Christians ever been on gaining ground. Remembering that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, we are to labor earnestly, ever praying that the saving grace of God will instruct us at every step. We must ever seek to ascertain the will of the Lord and to walk in harmony with it. Let us follow on to know the Lord, whom to know aright is life eternal.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 4)
The Lord is giving me strength for my labors in Southern California. I am trusting Him for strength to speak to our people in Redlands and Riverside and San Bernardino. Never have I felt more deeply the necessity of keeping the way of the Lord and of doing His will at all times. Wherever I speak to our people, I tell them that now is the time to do a thorough work for eternity. We must be humble, yet trustful. We must make use of every talent the Lord gives us.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 5)
We have been blessed with great and precious light from the Word of God, and we should study how we can make the very best use of this light. Individually we are on test and trial. God is watching to see how we use His great blessings.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 6)
What can we say to arouse our people to use their entrusted talents to honor and glorify God? Property is of real value only as it is used in the carrying forward of the Lord’s work. The world’s greatest need is consecrated effort in labor for the conversion of souls. Thousands upon thousands are perishing without a knowledge of the truth. My soul is sometimes stirred to its very depths, as I see the terrible picture. I prize the truth that we now hold sacred, and I would urge upon all our people that they seek to bring every thought into subjection to Christ, that all their powers may be employed in the work of saving souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 7)
There should be no sleeping now. It is time to awake and to watch for souls as they that must give an account. As members of the church of Christ, we must do His will on earth.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 8)
Let those who desire to be refreshed in mind and instructed in the truth study the history of the early church during and immediately follow the day of Pentecost. Study carefully in the book of Acts the experiences of Paul and the other apostles; for God’s people in our day must pass through similar experiences.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 9)
Those who have held the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end are to bear their living testimony, and their words will have a convincing power upon the people, and many will turn to the Lord. Some will be imprisoned because they refuse to desecrate the Sabbath of the Lord. As the world becomes more imbued with the spirit of the enemy, there will be a very much more vehement opposition to the Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 10)
Will our churches now arise and awake to the situation? The representatives of Christ are to carry a burden for souls. Every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people is to hear the last message of mercy to a fallen world. When our churches shall arouse from their drowsy stupor, they will have a better understanding of Bible truth, and they will be ready to devote their money to the cause of God and to give themselves in earnest labor under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God’s people are His agents, appointed to proclaim the truth in all parts of the world. The heavenly agencies will act their part, and we must co-operate with them. Behold Christ, our Pattern, how He travailed in soul for the salvation of men.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 11)
By their indifference many church members have grieved the Holy Spirit of God. In Christ’s stead they are to beseech others to become reconciled to God. Heavenly agencies stand ready to co-operate with those who engage in the work of the Lord. The Holy Spirit is waiting to unite in sympathy with every true believer and to make him a laborer together with God. Let no means be neglected that will advance the work to be done. There must be no self-exaltation and far more prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 12)
Make Christ all in all, and He will give dignity to your work; His mind will guide you, and you will be sanctified by His truth. Acknowledge Him as your Redeemer, and you become one with Him, even as He is one with the Father.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 13)
Christ has taught us to pray, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.” [Matthew 6:10.] This opens to us a height to which we are to attain by steady progression and continual advancement. If all would do unto others as they would that others should do to them, it would be an indication of a converted world. Upon this principle the Christian is to build. We are to ascend a ladder of progress whose top reaches unto heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 14)
Every church member is to be engaged in active service for the Master. “Why stand ye here all the day idle?” asks the Master. “Go work today in My vineyard. Work while it is day; for the night cometh in which no man can work.” [Matthew 20:6; 21:28; John 9:4.] “Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 43:10.] Can we comprehend it? We are Christ’s property, bought with a price, even the precious blood of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 15)
Now is our period of stewardship. We are trading on our Lord’s goods. Our means, our speech, our influence—all are talents to be used in the Master’s service, to be multiplied by wise investment. We must increase our capabilities. If God has entrusted us with three talents, He will not accept of two in return. If we have but one talent, but with it gain yet another, we shall have a position and a place in Christ’s service and will finally hear the blessed words of commendation and approval from the lips of our Saviour.
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 16)
What a terrible mistake for a professed Christian to devote to himself all his time and means and energies! All are to deny themselves, that they may follow Christ. Many souls have not refrained from accepting martyrdom for the sake of Christ. For them is the blessed promise, “He that loseth his life for My sake shall save it unto life eternal.” [Matthew 10:39; Mark 8:35; John 12:25.]
(22LtMs, Lt 170, 1907, 17)
Lt 172, 1907
Magan, P. T. Loma Linda, California May 15, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 463-464. Professor P. T. Magan Dear Brother Magan:
I pray that the Lord’s blessing may rest upon you. Your work has been made disagreeable and difficult because of the attitude of some of your brethren. The Lord has not prompted these things that are of a discouraging nature. I have written to you in harmony with the light that I have received for years, but I ask you not to use this in a way that might be injudicious. I feel assured that you will act with proper discretion in this matter.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 1)
Our great need is unity. We have not one soul that can be spared. The Lord calls upon us to unify in harmony with Bible truth. This should be repeated over and over in the family and in the church.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 2)
It was because of his faithfulness in rebuking evil in the ruling power that John the Baptist was cast into prison. Yet Jesus did not deliver him from persecution. John’s faith was severely tested, and he sent messengers to Jesus to inquire or Him, “Art Thou He that should come, or look we for another?” [Luke 7:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 3)
The sick and the suffering were crowding about Jesus, hoping for relief. Some were glorifying God for healing they had already received. To the inquiry of John’s messengers, the Saviour did not at once reply. But “in that same hour He cured many of their infirmities, and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind He gave sight.” [Verse 21.] Christ made bare His holy arm, and gave evidence of His Messiahship. The great miracles He wrought were His reply to the inquiry of the lonely prisoner. The deaf ears heard His voice. He spoke to the blind, and they received their sight. His words quieted the frenzied demoniacs, and the satanic powers were repulsed.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 4)
Then Jesus said unto the messengers of John, “Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see; the lame walk; lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.” [Verse 22.]
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 5)
We need individually a greater faith. In our sanitariums the sick are to be healed, and they are to receive a knowledge of right methods of living. You are making a right move in establishing a sanitarium on the large tract of land you purchased for the Madison School. The building may be simple, yet perfect in all its arrangements. Let [it] be a model that others may copy.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 6)
The Lord is not pleased with a division between medical missionary physicians and gospel workers. By some, strange walls have been built up. We should study to reach the unity of the faith. Truth will bear away the victory on every point.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 7)
Said Christ, “As the Father gave Me commandment, so I do.” [John 14:31.] He came to our world on a mission from the Father. He came to bridge the gulf that sin had made between God and man. There was to be made a provision for a reconciliation, for a union [of] the human with the divine nature. Christ would sanctify all who believe in Him. In the gift of Christ to our world, God has provided for every one a power to overcome evil. He has given unto us “exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 8)
The great apostasy originally began in a denial of the love of God, as it is plainly revealed in the Word. Provision was then made whereby fallen man might have a powerful revelation of the love of God and be given an opportunity to return to his allegiance to Jehovah. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] “I lay down My life for the sheep,” says Christ. [John 10:15.] “The bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [John 6:51.] Here is a revelation of the power mighty to save “to the uttermost.” [Hebrews 7:25.] God is light and love.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 9)
After the war in the heavenly courts, Satan and his followers were cast out. As human beings, we are subject to the crafty wiles and temptations of this fallen foe. And unless we are kept by the power of Christ, we shall certainly be led away by the satanic sophistries by which the world is flooded. Our safety is to lean not on human power, on the arm of flesh, but upon the divine arm. Those who are partakers of the divine nature will not be beguiled by Satan.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 10)
Every one will be tested. Men professing to be Christians will be placed in positions of trust, as guardians over the flock of God. But if they act as dictators, using arbitrary authority, they are out of their place. Christ alone is our sufficiency. Great mischief has resulted from the course of men who set themselves as lords over God’s heritage.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 11)
We are God’s property. In Jesus Christ we are to behold a pattern of what we should be. Every soul should be educated to look not to his fellow men, but unto Christ. He is the author and the finisher of our faith. Let no man think it his place to point out to others in a compulsory manner their duty. This God forbids. All are to be guided in the path of duty by the plain Word of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 12)
“Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they that testify of Me.” [John 5:39.]
(22LtMs, Lt 172, 1907, 13)
Lt 173, 1907
White, J. E. Loma Linda, California May 16, 1907 Previously unpublished. James Edson White My dear Son:
I am now seated in one of the best rooms in this sanitarium’s third story. I have been sustained on this journey, and I have spoken to the patients and family of Paradise Valley Sanitarium three times. The Lord blessed me. I spoke Sabbath to a full house very plainly. 1 Peter 2:1-12. Then I did not feel relieved of my burden, and I made appointment for Sunday afternoon. We had a very plain, decided work to do, and I told them they had done a work—physicians and those connected with the sanitarium—which they would have to meet in the judgment. Then I prayed with them, and the testimony meeting of confession went on and thus the work did advance while I was taking my cold bath. I have not time now, Edson, to give all particulars of my journey.
(22LtMs, Lt 173, 1907, 1)
Now, my son, do not be in haste to close up matters in Nashville, making gifts to this one and that one, limiting your means. You have embarrassments, and do not increase these embarrassments by keeping on the shortage line. I would say, Why do you make provision for a manufacturing establishment? I think here is where your embarrassments come in; let not the time pass in manufacturing. Take your time to create books, but do not consider that you have to create a manufacturing establishment.
(22LtMs, Lt 173, 1907, 2)
Minister in word and in doctrine, and walk humbly with God. I hope you will heed these words of caution. I know not why you should rush your work. Take time and consider. I write you these few lines. I am now going to see how we can open the work in Redlands.
(22LtMs, Lt 173, 1907, 3)
I pray most earnestly for you, my son. Make haste slowly, and be sure that you are on the Lord’s side and under the control of the Holy Spirit. I now go five miles into Redlands to see how we can begin and carry the work there. I shall return to St. Helena after this week; attend camp-meeting near Fresno.
(22LtMs, Lt 173, 1907, 4)
I will write again soon.
(22LtMs, Lt 173, 1907, 5)
Lt 174, 1907
Brethren and Sisters/An Open Letter Loma Linda, California May 19, 1907 This manuscript is published in entirety in PC 228-230. An Open Letter Dear Brethren and Sisters:
The Lord has greatly blessed our people in Southern California, in enabling them to secure at very low cost valuable sanitarium properties. Through the institutions that are established here, the Lord desires to reach a class that can be reached in no other way. Therefore I would urge upon our people to whom the Lord has entrusted the talent of means, that they make loans and gifts to place these institutions in a position where they can do without embarrassment the work that will be to the honor and glory of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 1)
For forty thousand dollars our brethren secured at Loma Linda buildings and land that cost originally one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. These buildings were furnished completely, far more elegantly than we would have furnished them.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 2)
The Lord has worked wonderfully in bringing us into possession of this place. Here is a center from which light is to shine into the surrounding cities of Redlands, Riverside, San Bernardino, Colton, and other places nearby.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 3)
It has been found necessary to provide additional bathroom facilities at Loma Linda and to make some changes to adapt the building to sanitarium work. An elevator is greatly needed, and a small bakery should be added. We are in need of means to accomplish that which must be done, and we pray the Lord to put it into the heart of our brethren and sisters to help in this time of necessity. For years the Lord instructed us that we should have a sanitarium in the vicinity of San Diego, where many thousands of tourists come every year. A valuable property was secured at National City at a very small part of its original cost. There an important work is to be done in caring for the sick and in reaching many with the light of truth. At the Paradise Valley Sanitarium also it was found necessary to add to the original building, and obligations have been made that must soon be met. The Lord has blessed this institution, and some have been converted to the truth as the result of the work already done.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 4)
At Glendale, a few miles from Los Angeles, we purchased a sanitarium at about one fourth its real value. This institution is at the present time full of patients. It is well equipped for work and is in a position of influence. Its need is not so pressing as that of the sanitariums at Loma Linda and National City.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 5)
The establishment of these three institutions has brought heavy financial burden to our people in Southern California. Yet they have cheerfully responded to the calls for means that have been made. Brother Burden, Dr. White, and others connected with these sanitariums have invested all they could spare, that the work might not be hindered.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 6)
We have none too many sanitariums. There is need for every one that has been established. In these institutions we are endeavoring to carry the work earnestly and solidly, in harmony with the instruction the Lord has given in regard to sanitarium work. They are to stand as a means of teaching the truth in these great centers of tourist resort.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 7)
At our request Brother Burden is going East to attend some of our camp-meetings, where he may come in contact with many of our brethren and sisters and lay before them the opportunities for assisting these important branches of the Lord’s work. We unite in asking those who have means to spare to consider the matter of investing some of their money in these institutions, thus helping to provide necessary facilities, that a thorough work may be done in caring for the sick who are coming to Southern California in search for health.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 8)
May the Lord give ability to help and a willing mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 174, 1907, 9)
Lt 176, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister “Sanitarium,” Glendale, California May 20, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in PC 230-231. Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
We left home on our visit to Southern California, April 18. On our way to San Diego, we stopped off at Fernando, and we spent a few days at Loma Linda. At the Paradise Valley Sanitarium we found a very small patronage. Twice I spoke to the helpers and guests. On Sabbath and Sunday, May 4 and 5, I spoke to the church in San Diego. I bore a very plain testimony. Sunday afternoon, I followed an earnest appeal with a prayer. This was followed by a social meeting, at which some confessions were made.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 1)
Thursday, May 9, we left San Diego to visit San Pasqual and Escondido. At San Pasqual we were made comfortable at the home of Dr. Sophie Judson. Sabbath morning I spoke in the little church nearby. Many of our brethren from Escondido were present, and all listened with pronounced attention. We hope some good was accomplished by our visit at this place.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 2)
The next day Dr. Judson drove us over to Escondido, a distance of ten miles, and we stopped at the home of Brother H. E. Olmstead. I was surprised to learn that a number of our brethren and sisters from Battle Creek were living in this locality. I was pleased to meet Brother Oswald Stowell, who has a little home in Escondido. I met other old friends, whom I was glad to see. Brother Olmstead is an old resident of Michigan, and we talked over some experiences that we passed through when my husband was in active service. He remembered many incidents that I have forgotten. He seems to be sound in the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 3)
In the afternoon at three o’clock I spoke in our church. The building was crowded, and I was told that about half of the congregation were from the outside. Among them were three ministers. I spoke from the first chapter of Second Peter, dwelling quite prominently upon the subject of temperance.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 4)
The following morning, Brother Olmstead drove us a short distance to the station, and we returned to Loma Linda, changing cars at Oceanside, Orange, and Colton.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 5)
I remained at Loma Linda nearly a week, during which time I spoke to the students twice. Sabbath forenoon I spoke to a large number who had assembled from the surrounding churches. The meeting was held on the lawn. Among those present were some who have recently begun the observance of the Sabbath in Redlands, where Elder Hare and Elder Whitehead have been conducting a series of meetings.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 6)
Seats were arranged under the pepper trees at the back of the sanitarium. It was an interesting occasion. The Lord blessed me in speaking from the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. Before I closed, I made a strong appeal to those who had means, to help in the Lord’s work, and I presented the needs of the Loma Linda Sanitarium. I urged them not to spend all their efforts merely in commercial lines, but to lay up treasure beside the throne of God. In the evening, Brother Nichols came to my room, his face aglow with happiness, and said, “I want to tell you what your words today have accomplished. A sister came to Brother Burden and gave him ten dollars, and a gentleman has offered to lend him a thousand dollars for a year without interest.” I thank the Lord for this response.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 7)
From Brother Burden I learned that the one who had offered to lend him a thousand dollars is a patient who had been in the sanitarium for some time. He had a serious stomach difficulty, and for some time his life was hanging in the balance. The crisis safely passed, he has begun to study the truth and is deeply interested.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 8)
After the morning service a lunch was provided by the sanitarium on the lawn for the visitors. Brother Burden felt that the sanitarium would not be a loser by doing this, and I agreed with him; for I remember the experiences we have had in the past in making similar provision. Such actions are sometimes the means of sowing seed in the hearts of those who are inquiring after truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 9)
In the afternoon, Elder Luther Warren gave an excellent discourse. Brother Warren is an able worker, and we hope he may labor for a time in this needy field. Now is a favorable time to work Redlands. The Women’s Christian Temperance Union recently held an important convention in Redlands, and Dr. Starr attended their meetings. She was introduced to the convention and by invitation spoke to them on the subject of Healthful Dress. She was well received and has received many invitations to give lectures at various places. We trust that the Lord will open the way before her, that she may be a help in removing the prejudice of some, that they may be willing to listen to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 10)
Yesterday morning, Sunday, we took the train and came without change to Los Angeles. On our arrival we went to the treatment rooms and after resting for a time were driven in a hack to the Carr Street Church. The meeting had been well advertised, and the church was crowded to its utmost capacity. The seats were all occupied, many were standing, and some even could not find entrance.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 11)
I spoke from the nineteenth chapter of Exodus and the fourth of Deuteronomy, relating how the Lord came down on Mount Sinai before the mighty host of Israel, gave them His law, making to them wonderful promises if they would observe His commandments. Never before have I felt so intensely the importance of this subject. I know that the Lord blessed me and that His angels were present. By the time I had spoken about an hour, I became very hoarse and was obliged to cease.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 12)
After the service, I went to the treatment rooms, where I took thorough treatment for my throat and lungs. Then we came out to the Glendale Sanitarium. During the past night I slept some, but this morning I have but little strength. I have been sneezing and coughing and am quite hoarse.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 13)
I have an appointment for next Sabbath at the Merced camp-meeting and was planning to stop off on my way home. This I will do, if I am able. The Lord will heal me if it is my duty to attend this large meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 14)
I must now close.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 15)
With love.
(22LtMs, Lt 176, 1907, 16)
Lt 178, 1907
White, J. E. Loma Linda, California May 17, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 15. Elder J. E. White Dear Son Edson:
I sent you recently some fragmentary letters written at Paradise Valley. I am now here at Loma Linda Sanitarium. Twice I have spoken to the students in the chapel, urging all to arouse themselves and make earnest, diligent efforts individually to seek the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 1)
At San Diego, I bore a most solemn message to the church. I am working with all the powers of my being to present to our people the necessity of receiving the Holy Spirit. This is the privilege of the church.
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 2)
At His ascension, Christ was highly exalted and given a name that is above every name. With demonstrations of great joy, the angelic host welcomed the Redeemer. Thousands upon thousands gave homage to Him. Cherubim and seraphim joined in joyous worship. Christ was glorified before His Father. His offering had been accepted. The redemption price for a lost race had been fully paid, and it was now possible for humanity, through faith and obedience, to become once more members of the divine family.
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 3)
Before His crucifixion, Christ had spoken to His disciples of the Comforter that should be sent. “It is expedient for you that I go away,” He said, “for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you. And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment; of sin, because they believe not on Me; of righteousness, because I go to My Father, and ye see Me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak; and He will show you things to come.” [John 16:7-13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 4)
Again, just before His final departure from the world, Jesus said to His disciples, “Behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” [Luke 24:49.] “Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 5)
“And when He had spoken these things, while they beheld, He was taken up; and a cloud received Him out of their sight.” [Verse 9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 6)
The succeeding days were spent by the disciples in earnest prayer for the fulfilment of the promise of the Father. Their prayers were heard in heaven. They confessed their sins to God and also made confessions one to another. They placed themselves and all their possessions upon the altar of sacrifice. Earnestly did they search their hearts, that they might put away sin.
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 7)
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” [Acts 2:1-4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 8)
Our people should study the second chapter of Acts. Before representatives of all nations, gathered in Jerusalem, was manifested the power of the gospel of a risen Saviour when preached by men under the influence of the Holy Spirit. “The same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.” [Verses 41-43.]
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 9)
In the gospel of Mark, the record is given in the following words: “Afterward He appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen Him after He was risen. And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; in My name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 10)
“So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the Word with signs following.” [Mark 16:14-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 11)
How abundant is the gift to our world of the Holy Spirit! It is beyond the power of language to express the blessings it brings to God’s people. If received and appreciated, the Holy Spirit will make us holy, Christlike. Through its agency, we are united with Christ, partakers of the divine nature. The reception of the Holy Spirit in its fulness is the great need of the church today. Let us pray earnestly that it may soon be realized.
(22LtMs, Lt 178, 1907, 12)
Lt 180, 1907
Brethren at the Merced Camp-Meeting St. Helena, California May 29, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 5BC 1100. To my ministering brethren at the Merced Camp-meeting Dear Brethren:
I feel a deep interest in the meetings now being held in Merced and am anxious for their success. Let all who minister in word and doctrine closely examine their own heart before God. Expel every sentiment that would draw attention to self. Encourage all to carry their burdens, not to man, but to the unerring Counselor. He will give light to those who earnestly seek Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 1)
Let our ministers who are associated in an effort for souls meet together early in the morning or at some convenient hour and unite in earnestly seeking the Lord. There is a deeper knowledge to be obtained in experimental godliness.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 2)
To every man is committed individual gifts, termed talents. Some regard these talents as being limited to certain men who possess superior mental endowments and genius. But God has not restricted the bestowal of His talents to a favored few. To every one is committed some special endowment, for which he will be held responsible by the Lord. Time, reason, means, strength, mental powers, tenderness of heart—all are gifts from God, entrusted to be used in the great work of blessing humanity.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 3)
Some apparently have but few talents, but by diligent trading on their Lord’s goods their endowments will be greatly increased. Those who criticize and discourage any of the Lord’s workers need an individual conversion; for they are doing the work of the great enemy of souls. Never speak a discouraging word to one who feels but little confidence in his own capabilities. The Lord is watching over every such soul; and if he will put his trust in the One who understands him, the Lord will increase his influence.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 4)
And unless those who are supposed to have in their possession large gifts maintain unwearied diligence, they will, because of self-confidence and self-righteousness, become careless and move unguardedly. Forgetting their need of continuing instant in prayer, they will lightly regard their moral responsibilities. Those who do not continually sanctify their souls through the grace that Christ is ever ready to supply will be on losing ground.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 5)
We cannot afford to use in a selfish manner the talents entrusted to us. Some are praised by their associates until they become careless in their use of the Lord’s goods. They employ their powers to favor themselves. The Lord is watching every one to see whether he will use his talents wisely and unselfishly, or whether he will seek his own advancement. The talents are distributed to every man according to his several ability, that he may add to them by wise investment. Each one must give an account to the Master for his own actions.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 6)
The Lord will not require from those who are poor that which they have not to give: He will not require from the sick the active energies which bodily weakness forbids. No one need mourn because he cannot glorify God with talents that were never entrusted to him. But if you have only one talent, use it well, and it will accumulate. If the talents are not buried, they will gain yet other talents.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 7)
The goods we receive are not our own. The entrusted capital is to be used; and when the returns are made, they are still the Lord’s property. We have no right to hoard these talents; when the Lord Jesus returns, He expects to receive His own with usury. When, as church members, we all realize that everything we have is a loan from our Master, many more souls will, because of a wise use of our talents, be brought to a knowledge of the truth. Every church should work earnestly to win souls to Christ. To be a light in the world should be the aim of every family.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 8)
Let every one glorify God for the marvelous love of God revealed in His saving grace. Let gratitude be manifested in liberal offerings and in an interest manifested to bring others to a saving knowledge of the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 9)
Workers together with God will be drawn out in much earnest prayer, in the humbling of self, and in deep humility of soul, seeking for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The time has come when we must seek for the power of the Holy Spirit, a power that shall give force to the warnings that are to be given to the world. Souls are thirsting for the living waters of life, and to us the Lord has entrusted the sacred work of opening to them the Scriptures in clear, distinct, positive testimony. The words we speak are to be an evidence that the Holy Spirit is speaking through [us] as His messengers. God will speak to our souls as we labor for Him. Then let our light shine forth in clear, distinct rays. Angels of God are round about His humble, consecrated workmen.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 10)
The Lord is waiting for an expression of our gratitude. To every believer He has entrusted a message of light and hope. Then why should not our souls be full of gratitude and praise to God? “Whoso offereth praise glorified God.” [See Psalm 50:23.] Gratitude is a result of the transforming grace of Christ upon the heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 11)
My brethren, you are assembled in an important meeting. In all your discourses present the Lord Jesus as the anointed One. Teach the truth as it is found in the Word. Pray as humble suppliants for the Saviour to soften and subdue hearts, that they may by faith lay hold upon Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 12)
By next mail I will send you copy of some things I have recently written to our brethren in Battle Creek.
(22LtMs, Lt 180, 1907, 13)
Lt 182, 1907
Robinson, A. T. Glendale, California May 22, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PC 285-286. Elder A. T. Robinson Dear Brother Robinson:
At our request Brother Burden has consented to visit important gatherings of our people in the middle west and to endeavor to secure gifts or loans for some of our Southern California sanitariums. We desire that wherever he goes he may be given opportunity to present the work and needs of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium and the Loma Linda Sanitarium. We need help in both these places. Both at Loma Linda and at Paradise Valley it has been necessary to build additions to the main building for bathrooms. This has left us with debts that must be met shortly, and we greatly need financial assistance.
(22LtMs, Lt 182, 1907, 1)
At Loma Linda, a school is being conducted for the training of medical missionary evangelists, and we want this school to be of the highest order. Both the sanitarium and the school can be a help one to the other.
(22LtMs, Lt 182, 1907, 2)
Elder Burden has felt an earnest interest in the advancement of the sanitarium work along right lines. He and Sister Burden have put their whole soul into an effort to make the work at Loma Linda a success. They have put into the institution all the means they could spare to keep the enterprise moving. We have the utmost confidence in the integrity of Brother Burden and have no reason to doubt that the Lord selected him as the manager of the Loma Linda Sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 182, 1907, 3)
Will you, Brother Robinson, assist Brother Burden in his mission in half of these institutions? You may introduce him to some of our loyal brethren who have means, or you may permit him to speak before gatherings of our people and raise donations or loans in your conference. We trust that our brethren in Nebraska may be able to assist in relieving the pressure for means that exists at present in these two sanitariums that the Lord has providentially placed in our hands.
(22LtMs, Lt 182, 1907, 4)
I will not have time to write more at this time. Dores is now taking the trunks to the station, and we leave Los Angeles tonight at 11:30. We expect to stop off for a few days at the Merced camp-meeting. I will praise the Lord if He gives me strength to speak to our people in the large tent there.
(22LtMs, Lt 182, 1907, 5)
Lt 184, 1907
Wolfsen, Brother NP June 4, 1907 [typed] Previously unpublished. Dr. Wolfsen Dear Brother:
Before we left your house for the cars, you asked me a question regarding the matter of your leaving Merced. I had not thought much of this matter until last night, when, in my sleep, I seemed to be conversing with you. I asked you if you had considered who would remain in your place to act a part in building up the church in that place.
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 1)
The message has now gone to Merced, and the Lord is moving upon hearts. There is a work to be accomplished there, and all that can possibly be done should be done now to create an interest in the truth that is being preached. Every jot of influence that can be placed on the side of truth and righteousness is now called for. You have many advantages. You have tact and ability to gain an influence. You are needed there to witness on the Lord’s side. Your example, and the example of your brother’s family, in the observance of the Sabbath, will be an influence for the truth in Merced. You are to be light-bearers to those who do not know the truth. It is your privilege to speak words to those with whom you associate that will deepen the impression that has been made by the camp-meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 2)
Would you be willing to let your brethren carry your share of responsibility, while you act no part in the work? God has given to every man his work. He has a part for you to act. In answer to your question, He says to you, Not now. In the providence of God the message of truth has been brought to your home. It is your privilege to bear a part in the proclamation of truth in that important place. It is your privilege to help prepare a people who will stand with God in the closing scenes of this earth’s history. Do not move away from Merced in order to avoid responsibilities that you are assuredly capable of carrying. Your influence is needed in Merced. You can be a blessing where you are.
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 3)
I was shown that you and your wife can do a blessed work in Merced if you will. You can show to your friends and neighbors that you believe the truth for this time and that you are willing to answer the call of Christ, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 4)
Our people in Merced have no place of their own in which to assemble for worship on the Sabbath. Is not this the time for you to help in the establishment of a church in your home town? God has entrusted you with means, and He wants you now to respond to His call for help. He is placing you where you can give evidence to the world that you love God, by sharing the responsibilities of His work. May the Holy Spirit move upon your heart, and upon the heart of your brother, to do at this time the work that He requires of all His stewards of means and intellect.
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 5)
I trust, my brother, that you and your wife, and your brother and his family, will meet the Lord’s expectation of you at this time. He has lent you His goods to trade upon, and He will require of each His own again. “Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] By giving to the Lord of His own at this time, you can help the cause of God that needs assistance and at the same time witness to the work of grace and truth upon your own heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 6)
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust doth not corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal, for where your treasure is there will your heart be also.... No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will hold to the one and despise the other; ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, and what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air; for they sow not, neither do they reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them; are ye not much better than they?” [Matthew 6:19-21, 24-26.]
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 7)
“Hearken unto Me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord; look unto the rock whence ye were hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye were digged. Look unto Abraham, your father, and unto Sara which bare you; for I called him alone, and blessed him, and increased him. For the Lord shall comfort Zion; He shall comfort all her waste places; and He will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving and the voice of melody. Hearken unto Me, My people, and give ear unto Me, O My nation; for a law shall proceed from Me, and I will make My judgment to rest for a law to My people; ... the isles shall wait upon Me, and on Mine arm shall they trust.” [Isaiah 51:1-5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 8)
The Lord is glorified when His people enter new fields and occupy new territory. He desires that His people shall all unite in the sowing of the Gospel seed. Now is your time to work in Merced. Let each do his appointed work and seek to make that work a specialty. The ministers have not time to stay long in one place. They cannot afford to linger over churches that have been long established. When the truth has been preached, the workers must move on and enter new fields. Christ and heavenly angels will unite with those who will do their appointed work, not trusting in self, but pleading with the Lord for His power and grace to be manifested. Read carefully the 60th and 61st chapters of Isaiah. There is inspiration and encouragement in these words for those who are called to act a part in the work of God in the earth.
(22LtMs, Lt 184, 1907, 9)
Lt 186, 1907
Butler, G. I. St. Helena, California May 29, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 97; PC 286-288. + Elder G. I. Butler
24th Avenue, North, Nashville, Tennessee My dear Brother:
I received your letter for which I thank you. I am always glad to hear from you.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 1)
For nearly six weeks I have been absent from St. Helena, traveling in Southern California. During this time I have had several ill turns, some of which were very painful. But I will not dwell upon this; it is sufficient to say that notwithstanding my weakness the Lord helped me to bear my testimony to a large number of people in several places. Many were surprised that I could speak with such clearness and power, and not once did I fail to keep the appointments that were made for me.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 2)
Sabbath and Sunday, April 20 and 21, I spent at Fernando. Our school this year at Fernando has been greatly blessed. Many of the students have offered themselves for service in the Master’s vineyard. On Monday I left for Loma Linda. I remained there a little over a week and returned again to Loma Linda after a visit to Paradise Valley, San Diego, San Pasqual, and Escondido.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 3)
On Sabbath, May 18, the members of several churches gathered at Loma Linda, and we held meetings under the pepper trees on the lawn at the back of the sanitarium. In the forenoon I spoke for one hour, and the Lord helped me wonderfully. Before closing my remarks I presented to those present the needs of the sanitarium and expressed the desire that sufficient money might be received to complete the payments on the additions that have been made to the main building. Before we purchased the property the main building had been used mostly as a hotel, and the bathroom facilities were limited. In order to do efficient work in the sanitarium, it was necessary to make additions to the buildings already standing. Dr. White, Brother and Sister Burden, and the sisters of Sister Burden invested in the sanitarium at Loma Linda all that they could possibly spare, but there still remains an indebtedness that must be cleared off.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 4)
After the morning service, a lunch was provided by the sanitarium for the visitors and served on the lawn. Brother Burden felt that the sanitarium would not be a loser by this entertainment, and I agreed with him; for I remember the experiences we have had in the past in making similar provision. Such acts of hospitality are sometimes the means of sowing seed in the hearts of those who are inquiring after truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 5)
In the afternoon Elder Luther Warren gave an excellent discourse. Brother Warren is an able worker, and we hope that he may labor for a time in this needy field. At present he is resting somewhat on account of the condition of his own and his wife’s health. After his service, the visitors left for their homes, and all were agreed that they had spent a pleasant day and had been blessed by the discourses.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 6)
After the Sabbath Brother Nichols came to my room, his face glowing with happiness, and said, “I want to tell you what your words today have accomplished.” He then told me that one sister had come to Brother Burden and given him ten dollars, and that a gentleman had offered to lend him one thousand dollars for a year without interest. I felt to praise the Lord at this response.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 7)
Later Brother Burden gave me some particulars concerning this man who had loaned the money. He was brought to the sanitarium in such a diseased condition that his case was thought to be hopeless. But he was carefully treated, and the crisis was safely passed. He is one of the most grateful patients they have had. He has become interested in the truth, and by his loan he has shown his appreciation of what has been done for him.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 8)
I had promised to speak at Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon, so it was necessary for us to hasten away by the early train from Loma Linda. We had about sixty miles to travel. On our arrival at Los Angeles, we went up to our restaurant and treatment rooms on Hill Street, and while waiting there before the service, I prayed to the Lord for strength for the work before me.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 9)
At the church we found that a large crowd had gathered. Every foot of room was occupied, even the aisles being filled, and I was told that some were unable to find entrance to the building. Among those present were a large number not of our faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 10)
I presented the importance of obedience to the commandments of God, dwelling upon the instruction given in connection with the proclamation of the law from Mt. Sinai. Never before had these Scriptures appealed to me so forcibly. I spoke for a full hour, and the interest was marked throughout. As I felt my voice weakening, I paused to send a prayer to heaven for help. Then the power of the Holy Spirit strengthened me, and I knew that angels of God were by my side. At the last I became somewhat hoarse, but I felt very thankful that the Lord had permitted me to speak so long and so distinctly.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 11)
After this service we went out to Glendale, six miles from Los Angeles. There I rested until Wednesday night, when we took the cars for Merced, where the camp-meeting for the California-Nevada Conference was to be held. Our train left Los Angeles at 11:30. I was very weary, but was unable to sleep very much during the night. It was a clear, moonlight night, and from my berth I could look out of the window and see that we were passing through a very lonely desert.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 12)
We arrived at Merced a little after noon the next day. I spoke in the large tent Sabbath and Sunday to the people assembled there. This camp-meeting is the first effort our people have put forth in this city, and I felt my heart drawn out to this people. We had a very good attendance from the outside public. Nearly all the ministers and several leading men have attended the evening meetings. We hope that a company of believers may be raised up as the result of this camp-meeting, and the tent meetings that are to follow.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 13)
I am now at home again, and trying to rest again after the strain of the past six weeks. I do not regret having made this journey; for the Lord has given me strength to bear testimony to His people in every place I have visited. I do not know how long I shall be permitted to remain at home. We need to realize more than we do the importance of encouraging one another in the work. We are to “lift up the hands that hang down.” [Hebrews 12:12.] While God does not want us to move from impulse, He is not glorified when we stand still. He desires that we shall make steady advancement, step by step, helping and encouraging one another in the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 14)
We feel very thankful that our people have responded so nobly to the calls made for means. We still pray for help, and we believe that our people will keep their hearts open to the needs of the cause.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 15)
My brother, let us work in harmony. If you have reason to believe that any brother or sister is losing heart, and is failing to put forth disinterested efforts to sustain the cause of God, help that one with cheerful, encouraging words. Let no discouraging words fall from your lips. Individually we are preparing for the kingdom of heaven. We are to be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony. We are to grow more and more heavenly minded. All who believe in Jesus have to battle with satanic agencies. Let us renew our covenant with God by continual fulfilment of His Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 16)
Our lives are being spared that we may be fitted for the future immortal life. There must be ever less of self and more of Christ. Our example is to reveal our faith in Christ. We are ever to be doers of His Word. Our truest worship of God will be given in a life of devotion to His will. Preaching, praying, and singing will take their proper place when we are doers of God’s will.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 17)
I have been shown the experience it is our privilege to have if we will cherish a belief in the love, the mercy, and the compassionate works of Christ. It is our privilege to grow in grace continually. If we would become partakers of the divine nature, we must follow on to know the Lord; we must worship Him in spirit and in truth and in the beauty of holiness. Our feet must follow in the footsteps of our Leader. In faith, in love, in meekness, we are to grow to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. Patterning after His self-denial and self-sacrifice, believing in God and referencing His Word, we are to grow in faith and love with all who with us are striving to overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 18)
God has set us in the world to be light-bearers. Our lives should be an acknowledgement of His holy precepts. We should bear to the world a living testimony of the possibility of spiritual growth. It is the good and faithful servant who is promised eternal life and entrance into the joy of his Lord. The good and faithful servant is he who performs unselfish acts to those with whom he comes in contact, in his life representing the beautiful character of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 19)
There is too much selfish love among us. If there is a brother who encourages all we do and suggest as right, then we esteem that brother above others. If there is another whom we imagine does not look with favor on our way of doing things, we withdraw from that one and seek to demerit his work. The Holy Spirit is grieved with such a selfish religion as this; and unless it is realized and put away, a spirit of prejudice and alienation will mar the work of God. God is dishonored when His people do not “love as brethren” [1 Peter 3:8], when the pattern is not correctly represented. We are not all required to do exactly alike in the work. Each has his individual work to do. Spiritual life will lead to unity. We are in the world for work—earnest, spiritual work. But one man is not given the same work that is given to another. If a worker does not follow the plan of work that another thinks is right, this should not cause difference and alienation. The manner of accomplishing the work may not be precisely the way in which another would do it, but if the labor is conscientiously performed, God accepts the effort. God asks for the performance of good works, and the results of the efforts made will testify to the virtue of the worker. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 20)
Serious mistakes have been made in setting one worker to control the labors of another. In taking such a course, man has been placed where God should be. God is to be the guide and counselor of His servants. We are to obtain our light from Him who is infinite in wisdom, and who never makes a mistake.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 21)
God would have His servants understand that they are to keep their hands off their fellow workers and let them receive their orders from the Lord. In many cases hard judgment has been measured out when encouragement and commendation should have been given; for the results of the work done have shown that the blessing of God was upon it. Wherever this principle has been brought in, God wants a change to be made; for it is contrary to His plan. When man’s mind is allowed to become the controlling power, both parties are injured—the one who allows himself to be conscience for another, and the one who permits himself to be controlled by human wisdom.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 22)
As workers we need to counsel together over difficult matters. It is right that brother should consult with brother. And it is our privilege, after we have done this, to bow together in prayer and ask for divine wisdom and counsel. But for one human voice to be a controlling power is a sad mistake, and this should not continue.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 23)
God calls upon us to make a different showing than we have made in the past as laborers together with Him. In all matters pertaining to the work of God, the workers should cherish feelings of consideration and sympathy for one another. The old, natural, selfish ideas must die and a new birth take place. In all his actions the worker is to be governed by Christ’s laws of justice and judgment. He is to accept as his creed the command of his Master, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 13:34.] He will regard his neighbor and his brother with the same respect that he bears for himself. Truth and righteousness will be the regulators of his course of action.
(22LtMs, Lt 186, 1907, 24)
Lt 188, 1907
Friend St. Helena, California May 30, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in LDE 107; 1MR 127-128. Dear Friend:
Last Monday we returned from a visit to some of our Southern California churches and institutions. We had been gone from home since April 18. At that time our party consisted of my son W. C. White; Dr. Kress and his wife, who is also a doctor; their daughter Ora, and their two smaller children; Miss Stevens, who accompanied them from Australia; Dr. H. F. Rand, physician at the St. Helena Sanitarium; Dores Robinson, one of my copyists; Sara McEnterfer, my attendant; and myself.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 1)
We went over the Coast Line to Los Angeles, passing through San Francisco, leaving that city at five p.m. It was the anniversary of the great earthquake last year, and many people were celebrating the day with revelry and pleasure-seeking. During the past year the sins that brought the rebuke of God have continued, and violence and crime have greatly increased in the city.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 2)
W. C. White, Sara McEnterfer, and I spent the Sabbath at Fernando. We were glad to learn that success has attended the school during the year that has just closed, and that many have offered themselves for service in the Master’s work. I spoke to the students gathered in the school chapel on Sabbath forenoon, and another appointment was made for me Sunday. Sabbath afternoon, W. C. White spoke to the students, and in the evening he left for Los Angeles to attend an important council of some of our physicians. Monday morning, April 22, we left Fernando and reached Loma Linda in the afternoon. Here we found the work moving forward encouragingly. During the past winter the patronage has been larger than at any previous time. A good work has been done in the education of medical missionary evangelists. Loma Linda is a place that the Lord has especially designated as a center for the training of medical missionaries. The school work has been carried on in cottages and buildings on the sanitarium grounds.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 3)
This beautiful sanitarium property has, in the wonderful providence of God, come into our possession. It is situated in the orange district of Southern California, within easy access of Redlands, Riverside, Colton, San Bernardino, and other cities. As a result of the work conducted by Elder Simpson, Elder Haskell, and others, strong companies of believers have been raised up in Riverside and Redlands, and there is a small company at San Bernardino.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 4)
Dr. Lillis Wood-Starr has found many openings for educational work in medical lines in San Bernardino. She began to conduct in the homes of our own people studies in hygienic cooking, dress, and general living. Neighbors were invited to attend some of these demonstrations, and these in turn requested that similar studies be held with their families to which they might invite some of their friends. So the work grew rapidly, until it was brought to the attention of the superintendent of public schools. At his invitation, Dr. Starr gave health talks in the public schools of the city to as many as fifteen hundred children. She now finds herself unable to respond to the many calls that come to her for public work. Her co-operation with the W.C.T.U. has greatly helped her by bringing her in contact with many excellent ladies of that organization. Such efforts are a powerful factor in the removing of prejudice against our people.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 5)
Sabbath, April 27, many of our brethren and sisters from the neighboring churches united with the family at Loma Linda in the sanitarium parlors, and I spoke to them, portraying the example of Christ, the great Medical Missionary in whose footsteps we are to follow.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 6)
Wednesday, May 1, we left Loma Linda for National City to visit the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Brother and Sister P. T. Magan accompanied us as far as Santa Ana, where they stopped to visit his children. At Orange we met Brother G. W. Reaser and E. S. Ballenger, who were on their way to attend a meeting of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium Board. At Oceanside, Brother L. O. Johnson, another member of the sanitarium board, joined us. Wednesday afternoon and Thursday were spent by the board in laying plans for the future work of the institution. On Sabbath and Sunday I spoke to the church in San Diego, asking them to unite with our brethren and sisters in National City in making the work at the sanitarium a success.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 7)
Thursday afternoon we left San Diego for Escondido. Here we were met by Dr. Sophie Judson and Brother L. O. Johnson, who took us in their carriages to San Pasqual ten miles farther. San Pasqual is a beautiful valley where are located several families of our people. They have built for themselves a modest, neat church, in which I spoke Sabbath morning. Many had driven over from Escondido, and the meetinghouse was well filled. The following day I spoke at Escondido. The service had been announced in the churches in their morning services, and there was a good attendance.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 8)
Monday morning we returned to Loma Linda. During my second visit to this place, I spoke twice to the students in the school. On Sabbath a union service was held on the lawn at the back of the sanitarium, under some beautiful pepper trees. I spoke in the morning, and Elder Luther Warren in the afternoon. The next morning, we hurried away to fill an appointment in Los Angeles in the afternoon.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 9)
At Los Angeles we found the church crowded to its utmost capacity, and we were told that some were unable to find entrance. The Lord blessed me in speaking, and notwithstanding my weakness, I was strengthened to stand before the congregation for one hour. After the service we went out six miles in the electric cars to the Glendale Sanitarium, where I rested for a few days before going to the camp-meeting at Merced. During this time I took vigorous treatment for throat and lungs, and Tuesday morning I was able to speak to the helpers without manifesting hoarseness.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 10)
Thursday afternoon we were at Merced, where we were entertained at the home of Dr. Wolfsen, who is conducting a small sanitarium. We found among the public a good interest in our meetings. The ministers from other churches attended and invited their congregations to do so. I was able to speak in the large tent Sabbath morning, and again on Sunday, and the messages given under the influence of the Holy Spirit made a strong impression upon hearts. After I had spoken Sabbath, about seventy-five came forward to signify their purpose to consecrate themselves anew to the Master’s service.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 11)
Monday, May 27, we returned to our home, reaching St. Helena by the evening train. I am grateful to God for His blessing which has attended me in these labors. I have been weak physically, and have suffered, but was able to fill every appointment; and whenever I stood before the people, I felt the power of the Spirit imparted to me. I praise the Lord that even in my old age, I am still able to do something in the work of the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 188, 1907, 12)
Lt 190, 1907
Brethren “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California May 6, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in RC 204. Dear Brethren:
I am now visiting the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Since last Wednesday I have spoken twice to the workers in this institution, and to the church in San Diego on Sabbath morning and Sunday afternoon. The Lord is giving me strength for my labors in Southern California. I am trusting Him for strength to speak to our people in several places.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 1)
Wherever I go, I try to emphasize the fact that our success in missionary effort will depend on the character we manifest. The truth of the Word of God received into the heart and carried out in earnest action in the life will bring sure results. If, on the other hand, we yield to worldly influences, there will be a decline of Christian zeal and devotion and a corresponding failure to win souls to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 2)
The church is to increase in activity and enlarge her borders. Our missionary efforts are to be expansive. There must be action and reaction. The work of educating the youth must be maintained and increased. They are to be taught to reach higher and still higher, pressing toward the standard of a perfect Christian education.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 3)
While there have been fierce contentions in the effort to maintain our distinctive character as Seventh-day Adventists, yet as Bible Christians we have ever been on gaining ground. Remembering that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, we are to labor earnestly, ever praying that the saving grace of God may instruct us at every step. We must seek to ascertain the will of the Lord, and then walk in harmony with it. It is our privilege to follow on to know the Lord, whom to know aright is life eternal.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 4)
Those who desire to be refreshed in mind, and instructed in the truth, should study the history of the early church during and immediately following the day of Pentecost. They need to study carefully the experience of Paul and the other apostles; for God’s people in these days must pass through similar experiences. As the world becomes more imbued with the spirit of the enemy, there will be more vehement opposition of the Word. Some will be imprisoned because they refuse to desecrate the Sabbath of the Lord. Those who would hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end must bear a living testimony to the world. Their words are to have a convincing power upon minds, and many through them will be turned to the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 5)
Never have I felt more deeply than now the necessity of keeping the way of the Lord and of doing His will at all times. Now is the time to do thorough work for eternity. We must be humble and trustful. We must make use of every talent that God gives us. We have been blessed with great and precious light from the Word of God, and we should study how to make the best use of this light. Individually we are on test and trial. God is watching to see how we will use His great blessings.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 6)
What can we say to arouse our people to use their entrusted talents to the honor and glory of God? The world’s greatest need is consecrated effort for the conversion of souls. Thousands upon thousands are perishing without a knowledge of the truth. My soul is sometimes stirred to its very depths as I see the terrible picture. I would urge our people to seek to bring every thought into subjection to Christ, that all their powers may be employed in the work of saving souls. There should be no sleeping now. It is time for us to awake and to watch for souls as they that must give account.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 7)
Will our churches now arise and awake to the situation? The representatives of Christ are to carry a burden for souls. Every nation and kindred and tongue and people is to hear the last message of mercy to the world. When our church members have a better understanding of Bible truth, they will arouse from their drowsy slumber and will be ready to devote their money to the cause of God and to give themselves in earnest labor under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God’s people are His agents, appointed to proclaim the truth in all parts of the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 8)
Christ has taught us to pray, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.” [Matthew 6:10.] This opens before us the height to which we are to attain by steady progress and continual advancement. As members of the church of Christ, we are to do His will on earth. If all would do unto others as they would have others do unto them, we would see indications of a converted world. Upon this principle the Christian is to build. We are to ascend a ladder whose top reaches to heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 9)
Every church member is to engage in active service for the Master. “Why stand ye here all the day idle?” He asks. “Go work today in My vineyard. Work while it is day; for the night cometh, when no man can work.” [Matthew 20:6; 21:28; John 9:4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 10)
“Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 43:10.] Can we comprehend this? In Christ’s stead we are to beseech men to become reconciled to God. Heavenly agencies stand ready to co-operate with those who engage in the work of the Lord. The Holy Spirit is waiting to unite in sympathy with every true believer and to make him a laborer together with God. Then let no means be neglected that will advance the work to be done. There must be no self-exaltation and far more of prayer. Behold Christ, our pattern, how He travailed in soul for the salvation of men. Make Him your all in all, and He will give dignity to your work. His mind will guide you, and you will be sanctified by the truth. Acknowledge Him as your Redeemer, and you will become one with Him, even as He is one with the Father.
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 11)
This is our period of stewardship, when we are to trade with our Lord’s goods. Our means, our speech, our influence—all are talents to be used in the Master’s service and to be multiplied by wise investment. We must increase our capabilities for service. If God has entrusted us with three talents, He will not accept two in return. If we have but one talent, but with it gain yet another, we have a place in Christ’s service and will finally hear the blessed words of approval from the lips of the Saviour. It is a terrible mistake for a professed Christian to devote his time and means and energies to the service of self. We are to deny self, that we may follow Christ. Many souls have not refrained from accepting martyrdom for the sake of Christ. For such is the blessed promise, “He that loseth his life for My sake shall find it unto life eternal.” [Matthew 10:39; John 12:25.]
(22LtMs, Lt 190, 1907, 12)
Lt 192, 1907
Caro, E. R. St. Helena, California June 12, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dr. E. R. Caro Dear Brother:
Your letters are received, and we are relieved of a great anxiety concerning you. Your mother and your wife have been intensely anxious to know where you were. Your explanation is sufficient.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 1)
I had a small house of four rooms. We placed your family in this, and let them have a limited supply of furniture, until we could understand what move to make next. We have loaned them money, and they have shared with us the product of the place. We have a nice cow, and they shared this advantage also. We live upon plain, simple food—fruits and grains.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 2)
Your wife’s home is close by our own house. Your children have a yard in which they can play and exercise, and they seem very happy. They are not exposed to the evils of the street; for we are on rising ground far away from the streets.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 3)
Your mother has had the care of nursing two confinement cases in the neighborhood, for which she has received moderate pay. Your family has not suffered for temporal necessities. You have been their great anxiety—to know your whereabouts and your welfare. I gave your mother the small letter containing the ten dollars. W. C. White took it to her. After reading the lengthy communication to me, W. C. sealed it up, and I have placed it where no other person can know of its contents. I am more sorry than I can express to you for the suffering you have passed through.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 4)
Your mother believes that your wife is a truly converted woman. She keeps strictly at home, and nothing can draw her away. She is a faithful mother to her children. I have evidence that she is converted, and I am desirous that you and your wife shall meet and become reconciled.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 5)
I had a letter written to you months ago, inviting you to come to our place, and we would help you to get well. We can give you plain, wholesome food and opportunity for exercise. We are picking our loganberries now. We have a very pleasant place, and we welcome you to our home and pray that the blessing of the Lord may be upon you. I think you have been doing the best thing you could do in working with your hands. We have hope that as you recover, you will be able to unite with some one of our sanitariums. But of this we will talk when we see you. We say to you now, Come right to our home; it is a pleasant place, away from the noise and bustle of the city.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 6)
If you need treatment, the sanitarium is just upon the hillside close by. There you can have every advantage until you are fully recovered. We welcome you heartily. The children and their mother will also be glad to see you. Come at once, if you are able. I will do all in my power to give you every advantage to recover your health.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 7)
When you are stronger, you can unite with one of our sanitariums; but now the question with you is to get well, so that you can begin anew. Come as soon as possible. In the past, under the influence of the Spirit of God, you have had success as a minister of the truth. We will do our utmost to place you on your feet again, that you may enter upon some duties where you can be a help and a blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 8)
In much sympathy and love.
(22LtMs, Lt 192, 1907, 9)
Lt 194, 1907
White, Emma St. Helena, California June 13, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 7MR 50. My dear daughter Emma:
Willie has told me that your mother is at rest. I would be pleased to hear from you, telling me about your mother’s last sickness and death. Did she suffer much? Was her mind clear? Where is your sister? Please write me a few lines; I would be so pleased to hear regarding yourself and Hattie.
(22LtMs, Lt 194, 1907, 1)
On my last journey to Southern California, I visited Los Angeles, San Diego, and Paradise Valley. I spoke twice in the church at San Diego, on Sabbath and Sunday afternoons. I had a burden for this church; and after speaking for one hour, I presented their needs before God in prayer. The Holy Spirit was in the meetings, and hearts were impressed. Confessions were made by a few. There were many present whose hearts should have been broken; and had they realized their true condition, they would have cleared the King’s highway. What was needed was humiliation of heart and confession of sin, in order to remove the difficulties. But this chapter in their experience, though much needed, did not come. We left this place, sorry that they did not all clear the King’s highway. We shall soon see the working of the enemy, and we shall see the working of the power of grace.
(22LtMs, Lt 194, 1907, 2)
I greatly desire that your sister Hattie Belden shall become a true and humble child of God. The Lord Jesus calls her and her daughter, saying, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 194, 1907, 3)
Lt 196, 1907
Belden, Hattie St. Helena, California June 12, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mrs. Hattie Belden My dear Niece:
What words can I use that will arrest your attention? Will you not consider that you are now deciding your destiny for eternity? The truth is set forth in the Word of God. If you will now come in your weakness to Christ, and open your heart to the reception of the truth, letting truth take possession of your heart, and the will of Christ take possession of your mind, Christ will abide in you. In the conflict of life, you need the whole armor of God; for you will have to fight the good fight of faith. Your enemies may be those of your own household; but the Spirit of God can make you sure of the victory.
(22LtMs, Lt 196, 1907, 1)
One of the most earnest prayers recorded in the Word of God is that of David, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” [Psalm 51:10.] The promise of God to those who cry thus to Him is, “A new heart will I give you; and a new spirit will I put within you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] A heart right with God, given to you through the power of the Holy Spirit, will make you a new life. The truth of God controlling it in righteousness will be to you the power of God unto salvation. You will have a sense of divine power and grace within you, and this will cause you to reveal the fruits of righteousness. The Holy Scriptures will then be to you a treasure house of knowledge. Through obedience to the Word of God, mother and daughter will become heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. You will sit down with Him to the marriage supper of the Lamb.
(22LtMs, Lt 196, 1907, 2)
I entreat of you, my dear friend, to make the Lord your God and your everlasting Friend. Serve God with all your heart, and make a covenant with Him by sacrifice. The Prince of life gave His life to save the world; and yet how few reveal any gratitude for this great act of self-sacrifice. It is your privilege, my dear niece, to set apart the remainder of your life as a time in which you will live to glorify your Redeemer; and at the end, you may have the crown of life, the reward of the overcomer, placed upon your brow. It is your privilege to lead your daughter into the path of truth and righteousness. Let not the strange life that your husband is leading confuse your senses. He has yielded himself to evil influences, and a strange infatuation controls his mind. If you will close your ears to his arguments, and open them to hear the invitation of Christ; if you will be firm and steadfast in the truth, you may be a saving influence in your family.
(22LtMs, Lt 196, 1907, 3)
Do not delay. There is light and peace for you only in turning square about. Will you not now make the resolve to give heart and mind and soul to Jesus Christ? The Holy One has given you rules for your guidance—the rules of a standard from which there will be no swerving. Set your will now in the right direction. Shall Christ have died for you and yours in vain? Come to the Saviour in the simplicity of a little child, and let religion, pure and undefiled, henceforth control your words and works. Can you turn away from the offers of Mercy?
(22LtMs, Lt 196, 1907, 4)
Christ gave His life to save all who will believe in Him. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in His name.” [John 1:12.] Eternal life is proffered you. Will you accept it? If you will consent to be a partaker of the divine nature, you may co-operate in the works of Christ. Is not the reward of everlasting life of some consequence to you? Will you not now decide this question—just now?
(22LtMs, Lt 196, 1907, 5)
Jesus gave His precious life to save you. Will you in response to His gift say, “I give my life to Thee. I will serve Thee with heart and with soul”? Let Christ fashion you after the divine likeness. Let not unbelief or infidelity prevent you from taking your position as one for whom Christ has not died in vain. Take your position fully on the Lord’s side. Jesus is acquainted with all your trials. He says to you, Lay your burdens upon Me. Keep My commandments and live, and My law as the apple of your eye. If you will yield yourself to Him, He will guide you in every good and right way. Will you not accept the guarantee of everlasting life in the kingdom of heaven, a life that measures with the life of God?
(22LtMs, Lt 196, 1907, 6)
Lt 198, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California June 11, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder J. E. White Dear Children Edson and Emma:
I have been expecting letters from you. Today I will write you only a few lines. My health is fairly good, yet I am feeling the effects of my last journey to Southern California. I do not get much rest from my writing. My trust and confidence is in the Lord, and I love the present truth. Every phase of it is truth, and it is to be held to firmly.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 1)
I am glad, very glad, that you did not hasten away from the southern field to Mountain View. It is not possible for you to make such a move without bringing taxation and perplexity upon yourself and delaying the accomplishment of your work. At times I did not feel altogether clear about your leaving. I felt that you ought to revive your influence in the South before going away.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 2)
I am agreed with Elder Washburn that there is still a work for you to do in the South. Working under the direction of the Lord, it is your privilege to help your brethren to place the work in the South on a sure basis.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 3)
As laborers in the cause, our dependency must be placed in no human agency, but in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is to be our efficiency. We must take everything to God in prayer. He alone can make every crooked thing straight. No mortal man can be our Saviour.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 4)
God is waiting to do a work for you when you see your need of divine aid. I am hoping much from the position you take in your determination not to let go until Christ rules in your heart by faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 5)
I shall be glad to see Elder Butler begin work in Atlanta. But he should have efficient helpers.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 6)
Never was there period of time when the workers in the South needed so much to stand firmly with the armor on as the present. We are to put our trust in the Lord, for He is our strength. Those who are holding the truth of His Word are to stand as one. Let no one suppose that he is appointed to pick flaws in his brother; this will not build up a single soul. The workers need encouragement.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 7)
Each worker should remember that he is having his likeness taken for eternity. Let us strive to have the likeness as perfect as possible. Let no unpleasant word escape your lips; but let the words you speak be such that you will not be ashamed to meet them in the judgment. The record of our words and deportment is daily written in the books of heaven. It is time now that we present to others in spirit and words and works the likeness of Christ’s example. We need to be guarded; Satan is watching every advantage that we may give him, that he may use it to hurt our influence.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 8)
Speak these words to the people: “The mighty God, even the Lord, hath spoken, and hath called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same. Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined. Our God shall come, and shall not keep silent. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that He may judge His people. Gather My saints together unto Me, those that have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice. And the heavens shall declare His righteousness; for God is judge Himself.” [Psalm 50:1-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 9)
We each have an individual character to form. We cannot afford to utter one word of foolishness or boasting. Let the words that we shall utter be wise and encouraging words, that will stand the test of the judgment. “Whoso offereth praise, glorifieth Me; and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God.” [Verse 23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 10)
In the place of demeriting the brethren, let us seek to do them good. Let us begin to see the necessity of speaking true, encouraging words. Truth, precious truth, is to sanctify the soul. Let none lift up his soul in self-praise. Each should have confidence in his brethren just as verily as he has in himself. We should dwell upon those subjects that will bring light and gladness into the souls of those who assemble for worship.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 11)
When you pray, believe that the Lord hears your prayer, and that He will answer it out of His immense fulness. We need to seek the Lord in earnest prayer, and not only seek Him, but through faith claim the assurance, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” [Hebrews 11:6.] When you ask the Lord for His blessing, believe that ye receive the things you ask for; “and ye shall have them.” [Mark 11:24.] “He that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth.” [Matthew 7:8.] We must walk by faith and not by feeling. The Word is to be our assurance. Let your prayer be, Lord, increase my faith. Believe that the Word of God is verity and truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 12)
I have a message for all our people in Nashville. When you meet together to worship God, let no one thrust at another in his testimonies. Be kind and tenderhearted one to another. Let not your prayers fall to the ground without marked results. It is your privilege to bear a full testimony to God and your Redeemer. All heaven is waiting to hear your requests to God.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 13)
Seek to die to self; for this is your life. Do not give up the interests of the soul. Show the blessed light to all with whom you associate. It is your privilege to say, “Come and hear, all ye that fear the Lord; and I will declare what He hath done for my soul. I cried unto Him with my mouth; and He was extolled with my tongue. If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me. But verily God hath heard me; He hath attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor His mercy from me.” [Psalm 66:16-20.] Let this be the language of every soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 198, 1907, 14)
Lt 200, 1907
Belden, Vina; Believers on Norfolk Island St. Helena, California June 10, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 10MR 146-149. Dear Sister Vina Belden:
I received your letter today. I was glad to hear from you. The box of dental tools is now in our possession, though I have not seen them yet.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 1)
For some weeks we have been without any person to do our housework and cooking. We have now secured a good woman, who with her husband will be members of our family. The husband works at the St. Helena Sanitarium; the wife has for some time been doing the cooking for the boarding house at Mountain View. We feel sure that she can do our work satisfactorily. I am very glad that we have been able to secure this help; for the girls who are working in the office have had to do the work of the house in addition to their usual work. We appreciate having these Christian people in our home. The husband is a quiet man and a firm believer in the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 2)
Our camp-meeting in St. Helena will begin in less than two weeks. This is the first that has been held in St. Helena since we have lived here.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 3)
I had always hoped that I would be able to visit you in your home on Norfolk Island. I regret that I was not permitted to bear my testimony there.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 4)
A Message to Believers on Norfolk Island
I have a message to give to those who are desirous of having lives that are cleansed from all sin and selfishness. I heard a voice speaking to the believers on Norfolk Island, saying, Unless you turn wholly from your sins, and become fervent in spirit, giving to the unbelievers on the island the evidence that you are changed in heart, you cannot enter in through the gates to the city of God. No unclean person will enter that blessed abode.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 5)
All may become intelligent Christians, if they will study the Word. In the Word lies life eternal for all who will obey its instruction. Unless we understand the terms of our salvation, and are willing to be wholly obedient to the Word of God, we can never be admitted to the city of God. Could this be possible, and those who refuse to comply with the conditions of salvation be admitted to the home of the redeemed, they would introduce their own unsanctified ideas into the heavenly family, and a second rebellion would be created.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 6)
Christ bids you, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] The members of the church of Christ are to act out the principles of truth, representing the character of the meek and lowly Jesus. This is contrary to the spirit of the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 7)
“A city that is set on a hill,” Christ said, “cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14-16.] The disciples are bound by solemn obligations to show to the world that they love God and keep His commandments. By obedience to the Word of God, light must shine in clear, distinct rays from every soul who has received the truth. And believers will be happy in reflecting the light of the love of God upon others.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 8)
Those who desire to see Jesus and dwell with Him in the heavenly courts must reveal the truth in the form of sound words. They must refrain from all foolish jesting and joking. You are living in the presence of angels who are appointed to lead you to right action; yet knowing the truth of God as expressed in His Word, you fail. You are now making your choice as to whom you will pattern after. It is your privilege to follow that which is right, and by your example lead to right action on the part of others. If you take this course, the commendation of God will rest upon you.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 9)
The mind of God can be learned only from His Word. The Lord has sent His angels to guard those who are willing to be led in the ways of truth. He bids you take heed to your ways. There are souls living on the island who are daily receiving blessings from God, yet who do not as much as look heavenward and say, “I thank Thee, Lord, for all the mercies I receive.” All the love that God expresses for them, in sparing their lives, and in providing them with food and clothing, does not waken in them one grateful response. The precious Word of truth is not stamped upon the soul. “With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the lips confession is made unto salvation.” [Romans 10:10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 10)
The first great commandment of the law is, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind.” [Luke 10:27.] Who among us obey this commandment? God asks for the heart’s best and holiest service; but careless hearts turn away from Him to taste of the cup of folly and sin, and thus God is mocked. How many living on Norfolk Island have heard the instruction of the Word of God, but have turned away with decided refusal to obey its instruction? The Searcher of hearts knows who are they who turn from His law, saying, I want not Thy will and Thy way O God.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 11)
When the attention of the man who is honest in heart is drawn to the truth of the Bible, he reads, marks, learns, and inwardly digests it teachings. He comes to God in prayer. He sees the wonderful sacrifice made in his behalf in the words of the prophet: “He is despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. He was despised, and we esteemed Him not.... He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.... The Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” [Isaiah 53:3, 5, 6.] Conviction comes to his heart, and he is troubled, for he sees that he is under condemnation. He feels the power of the truth in his soul. Then the light which the Spirit of God sheds upon the convicted mind comes to him, and he sees the meaning of the Word as he never saw it before. As the blood propelled from the heart, circulates through the body, carrying life and vigor to the extremities, so the truth received into the heart diffuses itself through the inner man, bringing the thoughts and affections and powers into obedience to Christ. If the heart is submitted to the will of Christ, the great Master Builder will in due time perfect the whole being.
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 12)
Paul in the fifth chapter of Romans shows us where the true experience of the child of God begins. “Being justified by faith,” he says, “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; by whom we have access by faith into this grace wherein we now stand, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulation 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 by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; but peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, we shall be saved by His life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.” [Verses 1-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 13)
I send you this to be read to those who shall gather together for worship. Shall I have the satisfaction of knowing that this my testimony to the believers in Norfolk has impressed your hearts to serve the Lord more fully?
(22LtMs, Lt 200, 1907, 14)
Lt 202, 1907
Brethren who are laboring in Merced St. Helena, California June 13, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 345-346. + To the brethren who are laboring in Merced:
It is my earnest desire that the meetings now being held in Merced shall be a great blessing to the people there. We are thankful that this city is having an opportunity to hear the truth of the third angel’s message. We trust that the messengers will consecrate their services to God, and by drawing very near to Him, learn how to draw near to the people. When the workers humble their hearts before God, He will manifest His grace through them, and hearts will be softened and subdued under its influence. It is the privilege of the laborers in Merced to so represent the truth in their words and deportment, that their lives will be a power to convince unbelievers of the truths they are teaching. When the workers come into the place where God can work through them, they will understand the words of Christ, “I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.]
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 1)
It is the privilege of every soul to be favored with the rich blessing of sanctification, through the work of the Spirit of God upon the heart. But before this can be our experience, self must die, and we must learn to trust in the Lord as His dear children. By faith we must claim as our own His precious promises.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 2)
Christ has given ample evidence of His love for the human race. He gave His precious life that men and women might be redeemed from the power of Satan. My brethren, I beseech you, as the ambassadors of Christ, to labor earnestly for the salvation of souls. Leave no means untried that will bring the truth before the people, that they may become cleansed in heart and refined in character.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 3)
In the night season I seemed to be in a meeting where the truth was being presented in clear lines. Many souls were convinced, and they were pleading for the grace of Christ to be revealed in them. Those who had accepted the message were praying for sanctification through the truth, that they might be enabled to reveal it in all its beauty to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 4)
There were others present who were persuaded that the message being presented was the truth of God, but they were not prepared to yield to its claims. I saw that the Holy Spirit was moving upon their hearts. Then a voice was heard, saying, “Verily, My Sabbaths ye shall keep.” [Exodus 31:13.] I want the endowment of the grace of God. Christ has given His life for me, and I will give my life for Him. I want to have His efficiency, that I may reveal His grace to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 5)
Other scenes passed before me. I saw converts being baptized; and as they went forward in this ordinance, their faces shone with the assurance of the love and approval of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 6)
I sincerely hope that this representation given to me will be fulfilled as the result of the meetings at Merced, and that souls will take their position as loyal subjects of God, obeying His commandments and grasping the promise of complete forgiveness of sin. Teach the repenting ones to come in faith to the One who has given His life for all mankind. Labor for them until they come to the place where they will say, “I will no longer dishonor God by transgression of His law. I will be obedient to all His commandments. I give my life to Him who gave His life for me. By obedience to the will of God, I will reveal that I am transformed by His grace.”
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 7)
Obedience to the law of God is the condition of salvation. Many declare that in giving His life to redeem the race, Christ abolished the law of God. It was because the law of God could not be abolished, that Christ died as the victim of the world’s transgressions. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] The death of Christ on the cross of Calvary is the strongest evidence that could be given to the world that the law of God is an immutable law.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 8)
Satan has tried, through the working of His deceptive powers, to cause the great humiliation of Christ to exalt sin and to invite rebellion in the world. He would have the cross of Calvary testify to a falsehood. The enemy has not gained his purpose. The truth stands fast forever. Read the twentieth chapter of Exodus. The law which God spoke in awful grandeur from the Mount will endure throughout eternity, despite the efforts of Satan to counterwork the work of God by instituting the observance of the first day in the place of the Sabbath of the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 9)
The apostle John writes, “My little children, these things write I unto you that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and He is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His Commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected; hereby know we that we are in Him. He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 10)
“Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment, which ye have heard from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in Him and in you; because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness, even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is no occasion of stumbling in him.” [1 John 2:1-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 11)
“If ye love Me,” Christ said, “keep My commandments.... He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me, shall be loved of My Father. And I will love him, and will manifest Myself unto him.... If a man love Me, he will keep My words, and My Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make Our abode with him. He that loveth Me not, keepeth not My sayings; and the words that ye hear are not Mine, but the Father’s which sent Me.” [John 14:15, 21, 23, 24.]
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 12)
We are to be sanctified through the truth. The Lord is soon coming in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. Are you preparing for His coming, that you may meet Him in peace? He will bless all who will come out and be obedient to His truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 13)
I pray that the people in Merced may be led to investigate closely the truth as to the observance of the Sabbath. Now is your opportunity to labor; now is their opportunity to show themselves loyal and true. The Lord, who knows the value of the human soul, is waiting to be gracious. “At that day,” Christ said, “ye shall ask in My name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father Himself loveth you; because ye have loved Me, and have believed that I came out from God.” [John 16:26, 27.]
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 14)
My brethren, you need to plead for the aid of the Holy Spirit in your labors. You need to wrestle in faith for victory, until you receive the blessing of God in your efforts. Hold fast to the promises of God. Draw, draw by faith on the strength of Omnipotence, and receive from Him the grace of Christ, the richest of all blessings.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 15)
Brethren and sisters, do not give up the effort until you see the work done that has been represented. Do not release your hold of this work until you see the salvation of God revealed in rich measure. Learn how to pray for the very things that you need, and do not let go your hold upon God until you see the conversion of every convicted soul. I know that this is the work that the Lord would have done in Merced.
(22LtMs, Lt 202, 1907, 16)
Lt 204, 1907
A Pioneer St. Helena, California June 6, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 106-107, 332, 633; OHC 16. To a pioneer My dear Brother:
I am instructed to say to you and to others in positions of responsibility, Let not the enemy cause you to speak words that will dishonor God. Do not criticize the work of the brethren in Washington who are bearing heavy burdens in General Conference work. We are the Lord’s servants, and we must not give ourselves to the work of judging our brethren; if we do this, we will encourage others to take up the same work.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 1)
We are among the oldest of the laborers in the cause. Through the grace of Christ, we may come off more than conquerors in these last days of our labors. Let us guard diligently our hearts and minds, that we speak no word that will cast reflection on the work of our brethren and sisters. When we indulge in criticism, we hurt our own souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 2)
We are old, experienced soldiers of the cross. Let us walk humbly with God, ever learning more perfectly the way of the Lord. Do not let us say one word that will increase the perplexity of any soul or cast a discouraging cloud upon the mind. We are to educate ourselves that we may not sin against God with our tongues.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 3)
Sometimes the Lord gives me messages of reproof to speak. When He bids me do this, I dare not withhold my words; but this is always a painful task.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 4)
We cannot know how many are the perplexities of our brethren, or how weary and worn they become with the difficulties of the work. I have been instructed that we are to guard carefully every word we utter, that we may not increase the perplexities of those who have to battle constantly with trials and discouragements. Let us not speak evil of these brethren, but let us seek to help them. Not much longer shall we have to battle with the difficulties of this life.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 5)
When we allow ourselves to think and speak harshly of our fellow workers, we dishonor God. Our brethren are the purchase of the blood of Christ. And what a price that was. Let the praise of God be continually upon our lips. All the good qualities that we possess, all the blessings that daily come to us, are the Lord’s gifts. We should ever bear in mind that we are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. Let us keep a grateful heart and speak of His goodness and tell of His power.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 6)
It is our privilege to speak words that will encourage our associates and fellow laborers; it is not our privilege to speak words that will depress. It is not wise for us to compare ourselves with other workers, speaking of their failings and raising objections to their methods of labor. It would be no surprise if those who are laboring under grave responsibilities, and who have many trials to meet, should sometimes make mistakes. We should thank the Lord that we are not called to serve in their place. Their position calls upon them the censure and criticism of those who have educated themselves to find fault. Let us pray for those upon whom the Lord has laid responsibilities; for this is the duty of all God’s workers. “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] To my brethren I am bidden to say, If the Lord has kept you from making mistakes which you see in the work of others, do not make the great mistake of becoming uplifted and boastful. Let us become familiar with the good that is being done by our brethren and talk of that.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 7)
We would do well to study carefully the words of Christ in the fifth chapter of Matthew, the record of His wonderful sermon on the mount. “And seeing the multitude, He went up into a mountain: and when He was set, His disciples came unto Him.” [Verse 1.] Whenever Christ addressed the multitude as on this occasion, there was always room for His disciples to be close beside Him. “And He opened His mouth and taught them saying:
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 8)
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
“Blessed are they that are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil
against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in
heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets that were before you.” [Verses 2-12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 9)
The class here mentioned are persecuted for trying to do the works of Christ. Satan, who seeks in every possible way to make their labors difficult, stirs up men to speak against them. We need to guard our words and actions, that we may not be numbered with the persecutors of God’s servants.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 10)
“Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men.” [Verse 13.] Only a little while before this, the Saviour had called His disciples to be fishers of men, and promised them that they should be blessed in their work. Now He says, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light to all that are in the house.” [Verses 14, 15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 11)
The Saviour had declared that His disciples were to meet with trial and persecution, and now He encourages them with a cheering promise. They would be treated with contempt by the rejecters of truth; but notwithstanding this, they were ever to remember that they were blessings sent by God into the world. The more humble and Christlike they should be, the more of blessing would abound through them to the human race. The prophets and messengers of God who had gone before them were salt of the land of Canaan. The apostles of Christ were to be the salt of the earth. They were to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. And while they would meet with discouragement in the treatment they would receive, they were ever to remember their high privilege; though few in number, they were to be God’s blessing to the world—salt that had not lost its savor.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 12)
In the commission to the early disciples, the world was their field. His disciples in this age are to carry the message to all the world. The reception of the Word of God and obedience to it will make the followers of Christ a powerful influence in the world; for the Word of God is “powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” [Hebrews 4:12.] Those who labor in the cause of God in 1907 have reason for greater faith than had the disciples in Christ’s day. We have learned much from their experience. “Seeing that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” [Verses 14-16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 13)
All who are traveling the road to heaven need a safe guide. We must not walk in human wisdom. It is our privilege to listen to the voice of Christ speaking to us as we walk the journey of life, and His words are always words of wisdom. As He journeyed from place to place in the days of His earthly ministry, He talked with His disciples, and their hearts burned within them as He talked. We are not privileged to have His visible presence, but through His Holy Spirit, He still communicates with His servants. His precious promises are to strengthen and refresh and comfort us; but they are never to be the cause of our uplifting and lead us to suppose that we are better than our brethren.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 14)
Satan is working with great diligence to compass the ruin of the souls of men. He has come down with great power, knowing that He has but a short time to work. Our only safety lies in following closely after Christ, walking in His wisdom, and practicing His truth. We cannot always readily detect the working of Satan; we do not know where he lays his traps. But Jesus understands the subtle arts of the enemy, and He can keep our feet in safe paths. He said on one occasion to His servant, “Fear not, Abraham; I am thy shield.” [Genesis 15:1.] He will say the same to you if you will place yourself under His protection.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 15)
I am bidden to say to my aged brethren, Walk humbly with God. Be not accusers of the brethren. You are to do your appointed work under the direction of the God of Israel. The inclination to criticize is the greatest danger of many. The brethren whom you are tempted to criticize are called to bear responsibilities which you could not possibly carry; but you can be their helpers. You can do great service to the cause if you will by presenting your experience in the past in connection with the labors of others. The Lord has not given to any of you the work of correcting and censuring your brethren.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 16)
“I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” Christ declares. [John 14:6.] Follow on with your brethren to know the Lord. Sympathize with those who are bearing a heavy load, and encourage them wherever you can. Your voices are to be heard in unity, and not in dissension. You are to exercise your influence as pioneers, as old standardbearers to meet and quiet the spirit of censure and complaint among the workers. Teach them to be afraid of such a work, lest they be found building barriers between themselves and Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 17)
The Lord has the oversight of His work, and you may co-operate with Him in the upbuilding of His cause, if you will refuse to place confidence in self. Do not, by holding to your own plans and methods, turn others from the path in which they ought to go. Act your part in the work humbly; labor in harmony with your brethren. Do not educate yourselves to find fault. Learn to give up your own way when a better and a right way is presented.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 18)
The Lord has a place in His cause for you to fill; but you cannot take the place of your brethren. Each is to act his part faithfully, and each is to give credit to his brother-worker for the part which he performs. Let not your conversation be covetous, taking credit to self. God has used many instrumentalities in His work. That which you have done is only a part of that work. Others have worked diligently, and prayerfully, and intelligently, and they must not be overlooked. “His reward is with Him, and His work before Him.” [Isaiah 40:10.] In the day of final reckoning, God will justly reckon with His servants; and He will give to every man according as his works have been. God has marked the lives of the self-denying, self-sacrificing workers who have carried the work in difficult fields.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 19)
These are things that you are to consider. The Lord is not pleased with His servants when they take credit to themselves. In our old age let us be just, and not appropriate to ourselves that which belongs to others. It has taken years to accomplish the work that has been done, and one group after another of noble workers have acted their part in it.
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 20)
Finally brethren, “fulfil ye My joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” [Philippians 2:2-4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 204, 1907, 21)
Lt 206, 1907
Tenney, J. E. St. Helena, California June 3, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 358. Elder J. E. Tenney
Graysville, Tennessee Dear Brother:
I have words of caution to give you. You are in danger of crowding yourself with too many responsibilities. It would not be wise for you to try to carry on a school in addition to the important work you already have. This work demands all your talents.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 1)
There are many branches of the work in which you are engaged that may be made to strengthen and further the work of the third angel’s message. Do not bring in a strange work in order to carry out certain ideas of your own which you suppose to be superior. There is a work for you to do, and there is a work for Elder Butler to do. There is a work to be done in establishing schools for the colored people of different grades. There is need of especial help at Huntsville and other centers in the South. We are greatly in need of a corps of workers who will labor unitedly.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 2)
When a laborer has found his place in the work, it is not wise for him to step out and take upon himself some other duties that will interfere with his appointed work. Do not let your desire to do a new work lead you to step in and do a work that is already being done in the way of the Lord’s appointment. Brethren Sutherland and Magan are carrying forward a work under the Lord’s direction.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 3)
I am instructed to say to you, Brother Tenney, Move guardedly, and under the guidance of the Lord. Before you take up a new work, be assured that you have your orders from the right source. “If any man lack wisdom,” God says, “let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed; for let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.” [James 1:5-7.] The Lord will guide and instruct all who will yield themselves to His guidance and control.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 4)
We must guard against the coming in of a spirit of rivalry. The spirit of strife for the mastery will create an influence that does not tend to unify, but to cause difference and contention. If the spirit of unity that breathed in Christ’s last prayer for His disciples were brought into the experience of the workers, we should see each one, not seeking to outdo his fellow workers, but seeking to do his appointed work in a spirit and manner that God can approve. God calls for a change among His people. He demands from them a manifestation of unity and love.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 5)
Every man is amenable to God for the use he makes of his talents. Every worker in the cause should regard his talents as lent goods. We are God’s hired servants. From age to age Christ has delivered His treasures to the church, and from one generation to another His faithful servants have improved the talents lent them. The gifts that eighteen hundred years ago He placed in the hands of His chosen ministers, the twelve apostles, have descended to His workers in this age. Yet how few of us realize our high privileges and our true position as ministers of His grace. The talents we possess are to be used in the work of saving the souls ready to perish. With His own life the Saviour paid the price of our willing service. In accepting any position of trust in His cause, we are to hold that trust as sacred, realizing that we are the stewards of His grace. If with sanctified hearts we seek to render faithful service to God, we shall hold each talent as a consecrated gift, and the humblest service will be accounted a joy because we are doing it for the Master.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 6)
The Lord’s servants should pray more and humble their hearts before God. He wants His workers to weed out from the heart every trace of selfishness, every desire that would lead to the exaltation of self, and take up with a humble heart the work He places in their hands to do. Beware, my brother, lest you hasten to take up a work that you are not best prepared to do, and which if you attempt will end in defeat. Take up with cheerfulness the work to which God has appointed you. Do not seek to grasp many lines of work; for if you do, you will certainly fail.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 7)
“Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.” [1 Peter 3:8.] “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” [Philippians 2:3, 4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 8)
Watch unto payer. The Holy Spirit can help all our infirmities. Pray, believe, and rejoice in the promise of the soon coming of the Master.
(22LtMs, Lt 206, 1907, 9)
Lt 208, 1907
Teachers in the Graysville Academy St. Helena, California June 18, 1907 Previously unpublished. + To the teachers in the Graysville Academy:
God is dishonored when strife for the supremacy prevails among His servants. In the night season the school at Graysville was presented before me. I saw that there was contention among the workers there in regard to position and the class of work to be done by the various teachers. Words were spoken and a spirit manifested that grieved the Holy Spirit. Important matters were being handled in an irreligious manner. The spirit that was manifested was not the Spirit of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 1)
When the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus “called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily, I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whosoever receiveth one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 2)
This instruction concerning pride and self-seeking is needed today. It should be studied by our teachers in Graysville. Unsanctified self was seeking for the preference. The workers showed that they lacked the spirit of unselfish love that led the Saviour to give His life for the redemption of the world. Those who participated in such strife need to understand what manner of spirit they are of and to humble their hearts before God. A deep heart work must be done to counterwork the results of such experiences. Christ invites you to repent and be converted.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 3)
If there are too many teachers for the work in Graysville, do not give way to a spirit that dishonors God. There is an abundance of work to be done in other places. Many cities of the South are waiting for our workers with true missionary zeal to enter them. The work of God must be carried forward rapidly. Time is short; the day of reckoning will soon be upon us. We have not a moment to waste in idleness, strife, or contention.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 4)
The Lord has been dishonored by your treatment of one another at Graysville; and unless a different spirit takes possession of the workers there, they cannot labor acceptably as ministers of the Lord. Some who have claimed to possess wisdom and judgment need to learn the very first lessons of Christian experience. They need to take Christ’s yoke and learn His meekness and lowliness of heart. When you learn of Christ, there will be no strife for position or honor.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 5)
Christian politeness is a wonderful healer of strife and grief. No jealousy and evil surmising will dwell in the sanctified heart. Some have permitted the love of self to grow in their hearts and they are self-exalted. Unless they humble their hearts before God and are converted, this spirit will continue to live and will finally destroy the love of Christ out of the heart. The human heart, unless controlled by the Holy Spirit, is selfish, and proud, and unjust.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 6)
There must be a decided change in the spirit and words and actions of the Graysville church before the works of its members can be in harmony with the lessons of Christ concerning the gospel standard of true righteousness. The Lord now calls for self to be conquered and neighborly love to be manifested. True religion comes into the life when soul, body, and spirit are sanctified to the will of God. Then and only then will unselfish action be revealed.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 7)
Needed Qualifications
The teachers in our schools are to be men of solid understanding, who study to become more and more capable by learning the lessons Christ has given in His Word. Their lives should be such that they will be recognized as men who have learned the lessons of a deep Christian experience. Ministers, physicians, and educators of the youth in any line are to be strong men mentally and spiritually as well as physically. Christ has made it possible for them to become His true ministers, to be sincere and true as steel to principle, and to reach the measure of the fulness of the stature of Christ. “Learn of Me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 8)
The life of the soldier of Christ is a life of aggressive warfare, of perseverance and endurance. It is no mimic battle in which we are engaged. There is earnest work to be done; for we have a powerful adversary to meet. The apostle Paul, writing to encourage and warn us, says, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on”—not the common dress of the citizen, but—“the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand in the evil day, and having done all to stand.” [Ephesians 6:10-13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 9)
In every emergency of life we are to find our strength where the early disciples found their strength—in prayer to God. When they were all of one accord in one place in prayer, “suddenly there came from heaven the sound of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” [Acts 2:2-4.] As a result of the Holy Spirit’s work on that day, three thousand souls were added to the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 10)
When Peter, in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, healed the lame man in the gate of the temple, and the rulers of the temple bade him preach no more in that name, the church resorted to prayer, and the Lord again confirmed their faith with the gift of the Holy Spirit. “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness. And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul.” [Acts 4:31, 32.]
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 11)
When this work of consecration and faith enters into our experience, we will see the work that needs to be done, and we will do it. Earnest prayer from a contrite heart will make its impression on human minds. And the power of the Holy Spirit of God will be seen in the melting of the heart and the subduing of the spirit to God.
(22LtMs, Lt 208, 1907, 12)
Lt 210, 1907
Amadon, G. W. St. Helena, California June 19, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mr. Amadon
Battle Creek, Michigan Dear Brother:
In response to your letter, which came to hand this noon, I bowed before the Lord and asked Him who knows all things to take the matter of the Battle Creek Tabernacle under His supervision. We can come to the Lord with confidence, when we ask for that which is for our spiritual good. I prayed that He would control in this matter and work in a way that would bring glory to His name.
(22LtMs, Lt 210, 1907, 1)
As I arose from my knees, I saw on the table before me some pages that had dropped from my diary. I looked to see what was written on them and read these words:
(22LtMs, Lt 210, 1907, 2)
Why do not those who claim to be children of God act as though they were wide-awake to the situation at the present time? While we believe in the ministration of holy angels in the advancement of the cause of God in the earth, we must each take our position to fight decidedly on the Lord’s side in the battle between righteousness and sin. The object of Satan in this warfare is to dethrone Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 210, 1907, 3)
“And there was war in heaven; Michael and His angels fought, and the devil and his angels. And they prevailed not; neither was there place found any more for them in heaven. And the dragon was cast out, that old serpent, which is the devil and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world; he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ; for the accuser of the brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
(22LtMs, Lt 210, 1907, 4)
“Therefore, rejoice ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
(22LtMs, Lt 210, 1907, 5)
“And when the dragon saw that he was cast down to the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.... And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” [Revelation 12:7-13, 17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 210, 1907, 6)
I thought that these few words might encourage you to believe that Satan will not prevail.
(22LtMs, Lt 210, 1907, 7)
Lt 212, 1907
Starr, Lillis Wood St. Helena, California June 15, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister Starr:
I would be glad to hear from you to know how your work is progressing and how you are situated. I think some provision should be made for your children, in securing them good places. How is your husband? I hope you will keep us informed as to the condition of his health. I think, whenever it is possible, it would be well for you to have some one connected with you in your work.
(22LtMs, Lt 212, 1907, 1)
Brother Reaser has written to us, telling us of the work he proposes for you to do. I see light in his plan. A good work can be done in San Diego, and the weather is not unpleasantly warm in the summer. There is almost always a cool breeze blowing off the waters. I trust that you will be able to try this plan and thus escape the heat of the summer weather.
(22LtMs, Lt 212, 1907, 2)
The blessing of the Lord will attend your work if you seek to become a spiritual helper. I have been on the Coronado Island, and when there I longed to give the message of truth to those people. I may be able to go there sometime, but it will not be at present. In some respects I believe your advantages for accomplishing a good work there will be greater than where you now are. This is just as favorable an opening as you could ask for. May the Lord help you to come to a wise decision.
(22LtMs, Lt 212, 1907, 3)
There is no lady physician in the sanitarium, and your presence there will be much appreciated. You will find plenty to do in making known the true principles of health reform. And our own people need special help, which you are able to give. You need to be in a place where your husband can have treatment, and where your children can have attention, and there you can secure the services of a girl to care for them. Wherever you go, you will be able to sell Christ’s Object Lessons to help in the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 212, 1907, 4)
In haste.
(22LtMs, Lt 212, 1907, 5)
Lt 214, 1907
“I have a message to speak to the churches...” Duplicate of Ms 149, 1907.
Lt 216, 1907
Sawyer, Robert; Hopkins, Hannah Sawyer “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California July 8, 1907 Previously unpublished. To Brother Sawyer and Sister Hannah Sawyer-Hopkins Dear Friends:
I received Sister Hannah’s letter of July 1 and will say to you both that I am interested in your welfare. If you can not find a suitable place to live and sustain yourselves, I will ask our brethren to help you to find the best and most comfortable place where every dollar you earn will count the most for your comfort.
(22LtMs, Lt 216, 1907, 1)
Regarding the matter of your uniting with Sister Gotzian in the establishment of an old peoples’ home, I would say that the establishment of such a home means very much. It would take more than you and she have to put into it in the matters of qualification for the management of such an enterprise. I understand quite fully what the responsibility of such a place would be, and I could not advise you to enter into such an undertaking.
(22LtMs, Lt 216, 1907, 2)
My son will write to Elder J. A. Burden, asking him to visit you and to give you such counsel as he might have. I have not been very well since the camp-meeting and cannot write more today.
(22LtMs, Lt 216, 1907, 3)
Lt 218, 1907
Workers in Nashville St. Helena, California June 18, 1907 Previously unpublished. + To the workers in Nashville:
There is among the workers in the southern field a need of self being subjected to the way and will of Christ. There should be far less of self-esteem and self-confidence and clearer perceptions of what is sin. The forces of sin have intruded themselves into the hearts and the minds of the workers until there is need of deep repentance and thorough conversion. In order to have this experience, you will need to confess your defects before God, empty the heart of selfishness and sin, and make room for the Holy Spirit to do its work. Pray for clear spiritual eyesight. Do not cease to pray until your prayers are answered, and you know that victory is assuredly yours.
(22LtMs, Lt 218, 1907, 1)
The work in Nashville has been running behind. This need not continue. Let the workers connected with the printing establishment repent and do works meet for repentance. Let none lift up their souls unto vanity. You need to do thorough work for time and for eternity. Clearer perceptions must come to the workers in Nashville; then there will be prosperity which will extend to other places.
(22LtMs, Lt 218, 1907, 2)
Among the workers throughout the printing office, there needs to be true conversion of heart and mind and spirit. The Spirit of Christ must circulate through that institution as the blood circulates through the body. Let no half-way work be done. It is time now for self to be crucified. The day of Pentecost has not yet fully come to the workers in Nashville. When it comes, the laborers will unite in a work of true repentance and conversion. Then Christ and heavenly angels will co-operate with them in their daily labors. Study the fifth chapter of Matthew. All who will earnestly seek to understand the character of those whom the Lord here designates as “blessed” will gain a valuable experience [as] ministers of righteousness. [Verses 3-11.] Study also the seventh chapter of Matthew. Here are presented principles that should be practiced by all who engage in the work of the publishing house.
(22LtMs, Lt 218, 1907, 3)
I cannot express to you in this letter all that I desire for the workers in the southern field; but I must relieve my heart of its burden.
(22LtMs, Lt 218, 1907, 4)
Many among us are self-sufficient and self-important. They enjoy the experience of being considered an authority. They are proud in heart, and because they consider themselves efficient, they often move carelessly. I am instructed to say to those who place themselves under the direction of such authority, God has light for His people. The Lord by His Holy Spirit moves upon all human minds. Each worker is to seek the Lord for himself by prayer and study of the Word, and each is to understand his duty for himself. The humble seeker of the Lord will surely find his efficiency with Him. Walk humbly with God. Esteem others better than yourselves, and study diligently the life of Christ. God will be the counselor of all who with a sincere heart seek to know their duty.
(22LtMs, Lt 218, 1907, 5)
There is no need for the workers in our institutions to be barren of the grace of Christ. Truth practiced will give force to the truth taught, and hearts will be softened and subdued by its influence. It is because the Holy Spirit is kept away from our hearts that His influence is not revealed in our lives, and the purpose of God for us is unfulfilled.
(22LtMs, Lt 218, 1907, 6)
Lt 220, 1907
Nicola, Brother and Sister [C. C.] St. Helena, California July 9, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dr. C. C. and Mary Nicola
Melrose, Massachusetts Dear Brother and Sister:
Just at the beginning of our St. Helena camp-meeting, I wrote you a letter; but it was mislaid, and not until today did I find it. I am sorry for the delay. Since I wrote the letter June 20, I have heard that you are at Melrose.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 1)
How do you find the work there? When will you be ready to come west? I hope you may be with us in Southern California soon.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 2)
At our St. Helena camp-meeting there were over one hundred tents and about three hundred campers during the first week. Then people came in from Healdsburg, San Francisco, Oakland, and other places, so that there were more than five hundred present the last Sabbath and Sunday.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 3)
I spoke six times. Some days it was very hot, and I felt the heat considerably. Have been very sick since the meeting, but am better now.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 4)
Twenty-five were baptized at the close of the camp-meeting, and others were to be baptized in their own churches.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 5)
About $450 was raised on the big fund and $150 for the Huntsville Sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 6)
Here is the letter of June 20:
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 7)
June 20, 1907 Sanitarium Dear Brother and Sister Nicola:
I wish I knew where you are at the present time. While I was visiting in Southern California, I heard that you were planning to return to Melrose to attend to some matter there.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 8)
Brother and Sister Nicola, I am confident that the Lord will lead and guide you, and that He will open ways before you. I am deeply interested in your future. I wish you could see your way clear to come to California. The climate here is good. You should not be in a place where you will be compelled to carry heavy burdens. There are places in California where you could go and find work that is not so heavy as at Melrose, places where Sister Nicola could care for her husband until he is strong again.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 9)
I was absent from home for nearly six seeks on my visit to Southern California. On Sabbath, May 18, the members of several churches gathered at Loma Linda, and we held meetings under the pepper trees on the lawn at the back of the sanitarium. In the forenoon I spoke for one hour, and the Lord helped me wonderfully. I spoke from the sixth chapter of Matthew, dwelling particularly on verses nineteen to twenty-one:
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 10)
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 11)
Before closing my remarks, I presented to those present the needs of the sanitarium and expressed the desire that sufficient money might be received to complete the payments on the additions that have been made to the main building. Before we purchased the property, the main building had been used mostly as a hotel, and the bathroom facilities were limited. In order to do efficient work in the sanitarium, it was necessary to make additions to the buildings already standing. Dr. White, Brother and Sister Burden, and the sisters of Sister Burden invested in the sanitarium at Loma Linda all that they could possibly spare, but there still remains an indebtedness that must be cleared off.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 12)
After the morning service, a lunch was provided by the sanitarium for the visitors and served on the lawn. Brother Burden felt that the sanitarium would not be a loser by this entertainment, and I agreed with him; for I remember the experiences we have had in the past in making similar provision. Such acts of hospitality are sometimes the means of sowing seed in the hearts of those who are inquiring after truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 13)
In the afternoon Elder Luther Warren gave an excellent discourse. Brother Warren is an able worker, and we hope that he may labor for a time in this needy field. At present he is resting somewhat on account of the condition of his own and his wife’s health. After his service, the visitors left for their homes, and all were agreed that they had had a pleasant day and had been blessed by the discourses.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 14)
After the Sabbath Brother Nichols came to my room, his face glowing with happiness, and said, “I want to tell you what your words today have accomplished.” He then told me that one sister had come to Brother Burden and given him ten dollars, and that a gentleman had offered to lend him one thousand dollars for a year without interest. I felt to praise the Lord at this response.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 15)
Later Brother Burden gave me some particulars concerning this man who had loaned the money. He was brought to the sanitarium in such a diseased condition that his case was thought to be hopeless. But he was carefully treated, and the crisis was safely passed. He is one of the most grateful patients they have had. He has become interested in the truth, and by his loan he has shown his appreciation of what has been done for him.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 16)
Thus the testimony I bore from the Word of God bore fruit. Up to this time I knew nothing of this man’s case; but I had spoken before in the only building in which they can meet, that in which the school assembles; and he was present at that time.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 17)
I had promised to speak at Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon, so it was necessary for us to hasten away by the early train from Loma Linda. We had about sixty miles to travel. On our arrival at Los Angeles, we went up to our restaurant and treatment rooms on Hill St.; and while waiting there before the service, I prayed to the Lord for strength for the work before me.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 18)
At the church we found that a large crowd had gathered. Every foot of room was occupied, even the aisles being filled, and I was told that some were unable to find entrance to the building. Among those present were a large number not of our faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 19)
I presented the importance of obedience to the commandments of God, dwelling upon the instruction given in connection with the proclamation of the law from Sinai. Never before had these Scriptures appealed to me so forcibly. I spoke for a full hour, and the interest was marked throughout. At the last I became somewhat hoarse, but I felt very thankful that the Lord had permitted me to speak so long and so distinctly.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 20)
It was in great weakness that I went to this place to speak; for I had been very sick through breathing the poisoned air in the cars that carried us to Loma Linda. Sara gave me treatment until I was somewhat recovered, and then she came down with a more violent attack of sickness than I had had. Three nurses worked over her for several hours before she was relieved.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 21)
After this service we went to Glendale, six miles from Los Angeles. There I rested until Wednesday night, when we took the cars for Merced, where the camp-meeting for the California-Nevada Conference was to be held. Our train left for Los Angeles at 11:30. I was very weary, but was unable to sleep very much during the night. It was a clear, moonlight night, and from my berth I could look out of the window and could see that we were passing through a very lonely desert.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 22)
We arrived at Merced a little after noon the next day. I spoke in the large tent Sabbath and Sunday to the people assembled there. This camp-meeting is the first effort our people have put forth in this city, and I felt my heart drawn out to this people. We had a very good attendance from the outside public. Nearly all the ministers and several leading men have attended the evening meetings. We hope that a company of believers will be raised up as a result of this camp-meeting and the tent meetings that are to follow.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 23)
Before the camp-meeting there were only two families in Merced who were keeping the Sabbath. These were the families of Dr. Wolfsen and his brother—one brother living some miles out of the city. I had freedom in presenting the truth in this place. At the first meeting, at the close of my discourse, I asked those who desired to seek the Lord to make it known by rising to their feet. The response to this invitation was much larger than we expected.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 24)
I am glad that you met Elder Burden at College View. I have not seen him since his return, but hear that he had a profitable time at the northern camp-meetings.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 25)
Write to me soon.
(22LtMs, Lt 220, 1907, 26)
Lt 221, 1907
Nicola, Brother and Sister [C. C.] St. Helena, California July 20, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Nicola:
I have just received a very interesting letter from Brother Burden, telling of his visit to the northern camp-meetings. Brother Burden thinks you are needed and that your labors would be highly appreciated at the Loma Linda Sanitarium; and he has asked me what I thought of your connecting with the work there. I have no hesitancy in saying that I think you would be appreciated there, and also that you would enjoy Loma Linda as a place of labor.
(22LtMs, Lt 221, 1907, 1)
I wish you could have visited Paradise Valley Sanitarium, National City, California. I think you would be pleased with either of these places, and I would certainly advise you to go to one or the other.
(22LtMs, Lt 221, 1907, 2)
I do not know where you are at present; but as I sent a letter to you a few days ago addressed to Melrose, I will send this also to that address. It will be a great satisfaction to me to see you settled at Loma Linda, where you can have plenty of fruit, and where there are opportunities for you to visit other places nearby. I greatly desire that you shall go there. Your help is needed at Loma Linda. A work is to be done there in becoming acquainted with the people living in the places near the sanitarium. Your help is needed in this beautiful part of Southern California.
(22LtMs, Lt 221, 1907, 3)
I will not write more, as I so recently sent you a long letter. I invite you to accept a position either at Loma Linda or at Paradise Valley; but I feel that your help is greatly needed at Loma Linda.
(22LtMs, Lt 221, 1907, 4)
In haste.
(22LtMs, Lt 221, 1907, 5)
Lt 222, 1907
Battle Creek Church St. Helena, California July 2, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PC 71-72. + To the Battle Creek Church:
I am urged to say to those who have had the light of the Word, but who fail to walk according to the Word, your failure to act upon the light is imperiling your eternal welfare.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 1)
The Lord knows all about the needs and trials of His people. Through affliction He seeks to point them to heaven. There they will know no disappointment or trial or grief.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 2)
In the Word of God we are encouraged to study the character of the world’s Redeemer. He is the pattern of every man in his work of character building. The Son of God was tempted in all points like as we are, but He resisted every temptation. Through prayer He obtained the power to become victor in the struggle with the powers of Satan. In the groves and mountains the Saviour spent whole nights in prayer for Himself and His disciples, and for those for whom His disciples would labor. Christ’s followers are to find strength where their Master found it.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 3)
The world hides a man from himself. It conceals from him his dangers by shutting out the prospect of a future life and by constantly appealing to his human senses. By thus keeping in his mind only the interests of this life, it seeks to make him a creature of time. But fixing his eyes upon the eternal world, man sees the cross of Christ and the death of the Son of God to save a perishing world.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 4)
Christ left the courts of heaven, laid aside His kingly crown and royal robe, and came to live the life of the poor. He subjected Himself to all the temptations common to humanity, that man might look upon the Prince of heaven and see in Him a perfect exhibition of the conquest of sin. In all trials and temptations, Christ sinned not, neither was guile found in His mouth. He clothed His divinity with humanity, but in His teaching and ministry His divinity was clearly manifest.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 5)
On one occasion Christ was moved to condemn: “Then began He to upbraid the cities wherein most of His mighty works were done, because they repented not: Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shall be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in you, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained unto this day. But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for thee.” [Matthew 11:20-24.]
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 6)
Here is a wonderful statement. The cities that have had the most done for them, and yet do not yield to the evidences of truth, are rejecting the power of the Holy Spirit. They are refusing the great light shining amid their moral darkness.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 7)
I am instructed that one place which will be classed with those where many mighty works have been done, and where the people have turned from light and evidence, is Battle Creek. Battle Creek has been the seat of rebellion among a people to whom the Lord has given great light and special opportunities. But the light has been discarded for the privilege of pleasing self and of following the unsanctified will. Minds and characters that might have been molded and fashioned after the divine similitude have been marred and stunted by self-serving. The opportunities that God has given whereby men might secure His help and favor have been neglected.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 8)
And every place that has turned from light and evidence falls under the same condemnation. Woe unto thee, Battle Creek, and woe unto thee, all who, having received great light, having seen manifestations of the powers of God, and having acknowledged this light and this power as from God, have turned from the light and refused to accept the evidence! To thee as to the cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida, the words are spoken: “If the mighty works which were done in thee, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.” [Verse 21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 9)
If these cities had accepted the message, exercised themselves unto repentance, and carried the light of truth to other cities, thousands of souls would have been converted as a result. Now Christ will take humble men and reveal to them the great and precious truths for these last days; these He will use in carrying to completion His work in the earth.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 10)
Surrounding every soul there is an influence either for or against the truth and righteousness. “He that is not for Me,” Christ said, “is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Influence is an important talent. Used on the side of Christ, it becomes a power unto life eternal.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 11)
The faculty of speech is a precious talent. Like the talent of influence, it conveys either light or darkness to those about us. Sanctified to God, it becomes the means of imparting the grace of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 12)
God designs that our knowledge of the truth shall be to men a savor of life unto life. The highest employment of the powers of speech is that of imparting divine truth. Wherever the audience may be, whoever may compose that audience, Christ’s witness is to speak the plain, unvarnished truth. He is to minister grace to his hearers. His words will be in harmony with the teaching of Christ. The soul who is truly converted will have his lips touched with the sacred fire of cleansing. To every individual he meets he will find an opportunity of speaking the good news of salvation. He believes; therefore he utters the sentiments of his heart. He stands as the oracle of God, speaking to men the words of life and salvation. No one will mistake his position; no one will doubt on which side he stands. He stands as Christ’s witness, consecrated, set apart, to declare to others the character of the Redeemer.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 13)
My brethren and sisters, Lift Him up, the risen Saviour. Lift Him up, as you plead before God in prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 222, 1907, 14)
Lt 224, 1907
Cottrell, H. W. St. Helena, California July 10, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 4BC 1165; 6Bio 133. Elder H. W. Cottrell
Mountain View, California Dear Brother:
We have received and read your letter. In answer I would say that unless the Lord gives me clear evidence that it is my duty to attend the Los Angeles camp-meeting, I shall not venture to leave my home. In the meetings, I would be called upon to meet that which is not in harmony with the work of the Lord in these last days, and which is contrary to the light God has given me. These experiences always cause me great suffering of mind. Yet if the Lord reveals to me that it is my duty to attend this meeting, I am willing to go.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 1)
On Sabbath, July 13, I spoke in the sanitarium chapel. I took as my text the first six verses of the third chapter of First John. At the close of the service Elder Behrens introduced me to an aged minister, who has been for some time a patient at the sanitarium, and one who has done an important work in gospel lines. As we parted, he said, “Mrs. White, you have preached an excellent gospel sermon.”
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 2)
The Lord has shown me that a great mistake has been made in keeping men in positions of authority who suppose it to be their duty to forbid other ministers from exercising their right to go from place to place as the Lord may direct them to hold meetings, unless they have been authorized to do so by these men holding official responsibility. By thus restricting the liberty of the workers, they are given a wrong education. By this method men are encouraged to look to men for guidance in the place of seeking light and knowledge from the Lord. We must not teach men to look for wisdom to men who are no more capable of teaching them their duty than they themselves are capable of knowing it without the wisdom of God to guide them.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 3)
God has not given to conference officers the work of telling each minister or servant of God just what his duty is. Such a work would call for supernatural discernment. When power is placed in the hands of man to dictate to his fellow men, it is a dangerous thing.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 4)
Man’s most imperative duty is to look after his own soul’s efficiency and to give a faithful example in his own household. The home is the most sacred of all educational agencies. Our schools, our sanitariums, and other branches of the Lord’s work are established for the education and training of the youth; but the home is the first and most important place of training. It is to the child what the root is to the plant; it supplies the necessities of the child from its earliest years.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 5)
One of the most earnest prayers recorded in the Word of God is that of David when he plead, “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” [Psalm 51:10.] God’s response to such a prayer is, “A new heart will I give you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] This is a work that no finite man can do. Men and women are to begin at the beginning, seeking God most earnestly for a true Christian experience. They are to feel the creative power of the Holy Spirit. They are to receive the new heart that is kept soft and tender by the grace of heaven. The selfish spirit is to be cleansed from the soul. They are to labor earnestly and with humility of heart, each one looking to Jesus for guidance and encouragement. Then the building, fitly framed together, will grow into a holy temple in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 6)
Minister and officers in the church are chosen to be workers together with God. All, in their several lines of work, are to learn their lessons of God. But any arrangement that may be made by which men whom He has chosen for His work are asked to accept the dictation of finite men is a violation of the principles of the Christian church. God has never appointed one man to stand as the dictator of his fellow man. This is placing man as the guide and teacher of man, when every church member should be instructed to seek the counsel of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 7)
In some of our churches there are teachers and leaders who are unconverted, unsanctified, and many of the church members stand in a doubtful position before God. The plans of God have been exchanged for the plans of men. There is a form of service, but the spirit of self-sufficiency steels the heart against the truth that sanctifies the soul, and the truth cannot do its sanctifying work. But connected with these churches are some whom the Spirit of God is guiding in the strait and narrow path that leads to eternal honor and glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 8)
The minister who would guide souls to find the one thing needful must himself die to self and surrender the heart to God to be cleansed of its selfishness. Then the wayward disposition will be conquered, and he will be strengthened and settled in the faith. A spiritual freedom will come into his experience; for he becomes a son of God and enjoys the liberty of the sons of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 9)
To our conference officers I am bidden to say, Do not step in between man and his God by teaching the workers to look to finite man to learn their duty. Point men and women to God through faith in Jesus Christ. When your brethren come to you, asking where they shall go and what they shall do, say to them: I cannot direct you; but we can study the field together, and pray to God for wisdom, and together we can seek His counsel in this matter.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 10)
I am instructed to say to those who are impressed with their duty to bear a message to the people, and who feel the need of guidance: Look to the Lord for light. “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” [James 1:5-8.] It is the Lord whom you must seek. He is the source of wisdom, of light, and of life. Do not dishonor God by placing weak and erring man in the place where He should be. The time has come when every heart should be making its petitions to the God who is too wise to err, and too good and merciful to do us harm.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 11)
We need to study carefully the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. “Is not this the fast that I have chosen,” the Lord through His prophet asks, “to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?” [Verse 6.] It is time to break every yoke with which Satan has sought to bind God’s people and to let the work of reformation go through our midst. It is time that there was a turning unto the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 12)
Let our churches in every place fast and pray, each man humbling his own heart before the Lord. Do not seek to humble the soul of your brother or sister, but let each set his own heart right before God. Confess your sins one to another, and pray one for another. Continue to pray until the yokes are all broken from the necks of our brethren and the desire to rule has been quenched. Pray that the Lord shall become the Leader and Guide of His people.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 13)
It is the privilege and duty of every Christian to trust in God at all times and under all circumstances. This trust means confidence and reliance. The psalmist confessed the need that God’s people have of this divine guidance. “Shew me Thy ways, O Lord,” he prayed; “teach me Thy paths. Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me; for Thou art the God of my salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day.... Good and upright is the Lord: therefore will He teach sinners in the way. The meek will He guide in judgment: and the meek will He teach His way.” [Psalm 25:4, 5, 8, 9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 14)
If we will individually seek by faith for the wisdom that cometh from above, we shall have clear and noble conceptions of our duty. Solomon declares: “How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul. Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord happy is he. The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning. Understanding is a wellspring of life to him that hath it; but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips. Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.... The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:16-24, 31, 32.]
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 15)
I am bowed down with sorrow when I see those who have had great light engage in a work of self-exaltation. God forbids any man to take up a work that will endanger his own soul. To every man God gives a work, and this work is to be done intelligently. Any line of work in which he engages that makes him conscience for another takes him out of the place that God has assigned him.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 16)
The Lord permitted the city of San Francisco to be destroyed by earthquake and fire; and since that time what a revelation of wickedness and crime has come to light, what a record of spoiled integrity. If the members of the churches in Oakland and San Francisco had been true to God, there would have gone forth from these churches many missionaries to work as Christ worked, preaching, praying, and working for the relief of suffering humanity.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 17)
Elder Simpson, under trying circumstances, gave the note of warning to thousands; but how little did the men in responsible positions in the conference, the men to whom the workers looked for counsel, give of the strong support and encouragement which was needed. I bore a message to Brother Simpson, warning him not to load himself with burdens which would crush him down and which should be shared by his fellow workers in the conference.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 18)
The work that the Lord has done in the city of San Francisco, in unveiling the corruption of the men in office, will be done in other cities. Now is the time for our people to work. Now is the time for believers to carry out their baptismal vows. Every soul who has become a member of the church has pledged himself to be a laborer together with God, and he is to perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord. Ministers who are ordained to preach the gospel are not to be placed under the instruction of men who will restrict their work according to finite judgment, telling them where they may go and what they may do. They are to do their work wisely under the direction of God. The prayer taught by Christ to His disciples is to be offered by every soul and should be answered in their lives. “Our Father, which art in heaven; hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven.” [Matthew 6:9, 10.] This is possible, or Christ would not have taught His followers to make this petition.
(22LtMs, Lt 224, 1907, 19)
Lt 226, 1907
Churches in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley “Camp Ground,” St. Helena, California June 23, 1907 Previously unpublished. + To the churches In San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley:
As a people we have had precious opportunities of understanding the truth; yet many among us need to experience what true conversion means. As we come into harmony with the light God has given, we will press onward and upward. We will not be indifferent to our own soul’s salvation, or unconcerned for those who are perishing out of Christ; but catching the spirit of the Master we will labor earnestly to give the knowledge of the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 1)
Why do we walk so nearly in the footsteps of the world? Why do we reveal so little fervor in our religious experience? It is because we do not seek the Lord in earnest prayer. When the blessing of God comes upon us in answer to our prayers, offered to Him in simple faith, we shall be distinguished from the world, standing forth as His peculiar people, chosen and precious. It is the privilege of every believer to let his words and actions be such that they will be an example to believers and will bring conviction to unbelievers. We must carry oil in our vessels with our lamps, that the light of truth may shine forth in bright, clear rays to a world that lies in darkness.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 2)
God’s treasure house is filled with blessings for His believing children. Its door is open, and God waits to dispense His joy and peace and love, that He may hear their songs of praise and thanksgiving coming from hearts warm with the love of God. Many of God’s people are standing in the position described in the messages to the churches in Sardis and Laodicea: “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.” God calls upon these souls to awake and to put not their trust in a profession that means so little. “Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God.” [Revelation 3:1, 2.]
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 3)
“Lukewarm” is the word by which Christ describes the condition of others. “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.... I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot. So then, because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched and miserable, and poor and blind and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 4)
“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.” [Verses 13, 15-21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 5)
I feel an intense burden of soul for those who stand in this lukewarm condition, and I pray earnestly for courage of heart, or I cannot do for them the work that it is essential should be done. Last night in my sleeping hours I seemed to be repeating the words of this message: “I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich: and white raiment that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love I rebuke and chasten, Be zealous therefore, and repent.”“Behold I stand at the door and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” [Verses 18-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 6)
I have carried a heavy burden for the churches of Oakland and Berkeley, for the members have not all opened the door of the heart to let the Saviour in. If the church members realized their position before God, they would seek Him earnestly in prayer: for I have been shown that many stand in the position described as “neither cold nor hot.” [Verse 15.] They stand under the rebuke of God, for they have placed themselves where, unless they repent, the Spirit of God cannot work for them. They are unable to receive the precious gifts of the Holy Spirit; for they do not humble themselves before God; they do not open the door of the heart to receive His blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 7)
Many of those who compose the Oakland church are in great peril. They have so long followed their own way, so long perverted the gifts of God, so long refused to humble their hearts and confess their sins, that they are prepared to be taken captive by Satan at his will. The enemy will not long allow the present condition of things to continue. He has his snares prepared for them. He is leading them to take sides with him who loves and makes a lie, and unless they arouse and repent, he will bring about their eternal ruin. If these souls will repent, God will still receive them. When they seek the Lord with all the heart, confessing their sins, and receive the sanctifying power of the truth in the life, the Holy Spirit will work a transformation in their lives. They will no longer be classed with the lukewarm, but, sanctified by the truth, cleansed from the dross of sin, they will stand as witnesses for God to communicate truth to all about them. The grace of Christ is sufficient to bring about this reformation.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 8)
God will receive only those who repent. It is only as we believe the Word, forsake our sins, and work out in our lives the grand principles of Bible truth, that God can make us a praise in the earth. It is the gospel of Christ which, if obeyed, will purify from the dross and the tin and sanctify the capabilities. It is the gospel of Christ that will unity the believers in Oakland in the faith in which they profess to stand.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 9)
Those who will not heed the words of reproof that God sends will be drawn into the snares of the enemy. The stubborn spirit manifested by some, if maintained, will divorce them from the truth and will lead them to enlist more decidedly on the enemy’s side. Solemn admonitions have come to these souls which, if they had heeded them, would have led them to give up the stubborn will and yield to the will of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 10)
With some the spirit of strife and opposition is strengthening, and if this in indulged in, it will prove the ruin of their souls. Those who persistently resist the Spirit of truth will finally “give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.]
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 11)
One who looks beneath the surface, and who reads the purposes and designs of men, says to these souls who have had great light, but who are rejecting that light, as He said to the rejecters of His grace in His own day, “Woe unto thee, Chorazin, woe unto thee, Bethsaida, for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shall be brought down to hell; for if the mighty works which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained unto this day. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for thee.” [Matthew 11:21-24.]
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 12)
“At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.” [Verse 25.] After Jesus had spoken to the multitude the parable of the sower and the seed, the disciples came to Him, saying, “Why speakest Thou to them in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing, see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing, ye shall see and shall not perceive: for this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 13)
“But blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they hear. For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.” [Matthew 13:10-17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 14)
This is a portion of the instruction that I have been bidden to give to the churches in San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley. Efforts will be made by those who have gone from us to carry on their work of apostasy. They will seek to create divisions in the churches and to seduce souls to their ruin. The Lord has sent messages of warning to these persons, but they do not hear. If they permit the enemy to deceive them and lure their souls to ruin, they will not do this unwarned.
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 15)
And now the warning is given to the churches: “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goeth about seeking whom he may devour; whom resist, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered awhile, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” [1 Peter 5:6-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 226, 1907, 16)
Lt 228, 1907
Officers of the General Conference St. Helena, California June 14, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 72-73; 4MR 29-30. + To the officers of the General Conference:
For some time I have had a great desire to be in Washington; but I cannot leave my work here; there is too much to do, too many important interests at stake.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 1)
Some very decided instruction has been given me in regard to the work to be done in Huntsville, and the necessity of our placing the training school there on vantage ground. Let us delay no longer to do the work that so long has been left undone in the southern field. Soon this work of training colored people to be laborers in the cause of God will be much harder to handle than it is now.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 2)
The Lord has presented before me our neglect of opportunities for good, in failing to get acquainted with the work that is being done in the large institutions for the education of the colored people. Long ago we should have made a thorough study of the best ways of educating the colored people to be workers for the colored people. We should use every opportunity to work wisely for the teachers and students in these large educational institutions. We do not need to work hastily to indoctrinate the workers, but we can seek in every way possible to help them and to let them know that we appreciate their labors.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 3)
One of the strong reasons presented to me why our office of publication should be established at Nashville was that through our publications the light of truth might shine to the teachers and students in these institutions. I expected long ago to hear that this work had been undertaken.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 4)
Recently light again came to me instructing me that decided efforts should be made in an honorable way to get into the ranks of the students in these schools, and by gaining the confidence of the white teachers, get permission to give them talks on missionary subjects. It was because of the existence of these large institutions of education in Nashville that I was shown that this city was the most favorable place in which to open up our work in the southern field. There has been a sad failure to take advantage of circumstances.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 5)
A mighty influence should now be set in operation, to arouse earnest efforts in behalf of the colored people. The chafing and annoyances that have existed among the workers in the southern states, the holding back, and the hindrances, have not been of the Lord’s order; and these things have prevented the work from being done that God designed should be done in that field. Had the workers been prepared to act harmoniously, and under the dictation of the Spirit of God, there would have been a very different showing than there is today. Now an earnest work is to be done for the teachers in Nashville, and a wise work is demanded for the colored students.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 6)
Self has been striving for the mastery among the workers in God’s cause, and it has often been victorious. The Lord Jesus now says to us, “You who claim to have given yourselves to Me, I give you to the world, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. He who came as the light of the world, that He might bring many souls to the Father, now sends you forth as the light of the world.”
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 7)
God will multiply our numbers and our men of means, and through His converted agencies will accomplish the work that He designs shall be done. It is the baptism of His Holy Spirit that is needed among His laborers; when this lack is supplied, we shall serve Him with a thousandfold more earnestness than we now do.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 8)
“He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him freely give us all things?” [Romans 8:32.] He who was rich with heaven’s boundless resources came to earth with an eternal weight of glory to impart to fallen man. He came to open the blind eyes, to see the riches of eternity held out to men. Shall only a shallow stream of gratitude be our response to this beneficence? Rather shall we not consecrate ourselves to God, soul, body, and spirit, and become laborers together with Him in the great mission for which He gave His richest Gift?
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 9)
Christ was rich, yet for our sakes He became poor, that we through His sacrifice and poverty might become rich and lay hold of His divine power. The unfathomable riches of heaven were bestowed when Christ, the express image of the Father, was given to the fallen race. That Christ should lay off His royal crown and robe and leave His high command in heaven to accept a lot of humiliation and poverty on earth is a mystery that angels desire to look into. The sacrifice was made that man might accept by faith the divine nature and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. Why do God’s people manifest so little faith, why continue to work counter to God’s plan of truth and righteousness? Why do we not believe, when heaven has done all that Infinity could do for our recovery?
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 10)
The principles of true godliness must be brought into the lives of God’s professing people. We must lay hold of the merits of Christ with a living, earnest faith. Heaven has been brought within our reach in the gift of God’s beloved Son; the principles of heaven that He brought with Him to earth are to be practiced in our lives.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 11)
The converted soul is placed under solemn obligation to make every sacrifice for the salvation of the fallen race. Christ made an infinite sacrifice when He became the head of the human family. His example of self-abnegation is to be repeated in the lives of His followers. It is only thus that the followers of Christ become the sons of God, partakers of the divine nature. They are to labor as He labored for the recovery of the lost, seeking to cause the light of truth to dispel the darkness of ignorance and sin.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 12)
My brethren, I call on you to awake. When the believer yields his will to the will and mind of Christ, he will not be listless or indifferent. Every soul who enters into discipleship with Christ will become a laborer together with Him to draw men to God. Many have lost a sense of their individual responsibility. God is waiting to renew the faith of those who have lost their first love and set them to work to fulfil the great commission, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 13)
“All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth,” Christ said. [Matthew 28:18.] The Saviour unites all His sympathies with His human instrumentalities. He lays hold of the sympathies and powers of His church in heaven and combines them with His agencies on earth. Angels are sent to minister unto them who shall be heirs of salvation. The church in heaven unites with the church on earth, to make effective the work of those who receive and believe on Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 14)
An Appeal for More Earnest Work in the Cities of the Southern States
I ask our brethren who are bearing responsibilities in the cause of God, Can we not make more decided efforts to bring the message of present truth to the towns and cities in the southern field that are yet unworked? While the work is being carried on in a few principle cities, and the laborers there are trying to extend their efforts to the towns surrounding them, our churches throughout the southern field, guided by the advice and counsel of those who have had experience in the work, should seek to disseminate the knowledge of the truth in their own neighborhoods.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 15)
My brethren, you need to pray much more than you need to talk. Do not talk doubt or unbelief; for this closes the door against the Holy Spirit. Do not criticize and find fault. Humble yourselves before God, and confess your own sins. When you have sought and received pardon for your own wrongdoing, then do the work God has ordained. Practical godliness revealed in your own life will bring your brethren into working order and will make them willing to be messengers and to suffer, if need be, for the truth’s sake.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 16)
Love for souls will lead you to be laborers together with God. Love for souls will make you partakers of the sufferings of Christ and a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 17)
Put not your trust in any human agency. Place no man where God should be. Let each worker seek the Lord for himself. The prayer of Christ for His disciples, when He was about to leave them, was not for the twelve alone, but for all who would believe on Him through their word, “that they all may be one, ... that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.” [John 17:21.] It is the sanctified unity of God’s people that will give evidence to the worldlings that God has sent His Son into the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 228, 1907, 18)
Lt 230, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma St. Helena, California July 22, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in SD 228; LDE 115. + Dear Children Edson and Emma:
Since the St Helena camp-meeting, I have been passing through a long period of feebleness and have not attempted to write much. But I have found plenty to do in reading over the matter that has been prepared for publication, and which is waiting to be put into print. I have begun to examine the manuscript prepared by Mrs. Stuttle for the Youth’s Life of Christ. My left eye causes me much suffering, but I have faith to believe that the Lord will heal my eyes. I will not yield my confidence in Him, but will believe, believe.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 1)
My constant writing, from early morning until night, has worn upon me, and at times I suffer pain in my brain. Up to the time of our camp-meeting in St. Helena, I was writing all day, continuing my work in the evening by lamplight. Since the camp-meeting I have not written much by lamplight.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 2)
The manuscripts which I have read over are the very things that are needed by our people at this time. I pray that the Lord will give me my precious eyesight, that I may be able to continue this work of examining these manuscripts. There are piles of my writings on every hand; for I have kept a diary of all my labors in Australia, and much of my experiences in America.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 3)
Regarding the meetinghouse in Knoxville: I favor the proposal made by you and Emma and Hattie Belden. Knoxville has been presented to me as one of the places that should have been worked years ago. It behooves us all to do our very best to redeem the time. I will be heart and hand with you as you endeavor to change the neglect of the past by earnest effort.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 4)
One week ago last Sabbath I spoke in the sanitarium chapel. Every seat in the body of the hall was filled, and the small room at the entry was crowded. A number of patients in wheel chairs filled the aisles, and small chairs were placed on the platform for the children, to give more room for the older people in the regular seats.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 5)
I had special freedom as I spoke of the work to be done in the southern field for the colored people. I presented the importance of each family’s having a small box in which to place their donations to this field, showing how such a plan would teach every member of the family self-denial. By this method, not only the members of the family would be led to give their pennies and dimes, but visitors coming to the house, and learning of the plan of giving, would become interested in the cause, and they too would make their offerings. I made an earnest appeal for the work in the South, but since that effort I have been very weak, doing scarcely any talking or praying with my own family.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 6)
We are certainly living in the last days. In the matters that are daily being unfolded in the papers regarding the corruption in San Francisco and crime in Montana, we can see a perfect revelation of the working of sin. Evil men have pledged themselves to take the lives of those who have stood in their way, or who would not become one with them in their work of robbery. For the sake of gain they have become the murderers of their fellow men. And this work of revelation is only the beginning of what is to be revealed in the future.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 7)
I have been shown that all the warnings of Christ regarding the events that will occur near the close of this earth’s history are now being fulfilled in our cities. God is permitting these things to be brought to light that he who runs may read. The city of San Francisco is a sample of what the whole world is becoming. The wicked bribery, the misappropriation of means, the fraudulent transactions among men who have power to release the guilty and condemn the innocent—all this iniquity is filling other large cities of the earth and is making the world as it was in the days that were before the flood. Amid such evil the hope of the Christian must be in One who is omnipotent; his only safety is to hide himself with Christ in God.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 8)
The Lord understands all about His work in the world; He knows every secret that we must wait for the future to unfold. At this time He calls upon His people to become truly converted. To those who are engaged in a work of controversy, He says, “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] The human agent is not to look to man to learn his duty. He is to place his strength and dependence on the strength and power of the One who can lead him from victory unto victory. The righteousness of Christ is to be our strength, our frontguard and our rearward.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 9)
Time is rapidly passing, and wickedness is increasing. If we refuse to do the good we may do, we place ourselves in a perilous position. If we delay to enter the ranks of those who are workers together with God, we will find ourselves in the ranks of those who oppose truth and righteousness, who have turned away from the truth and are turned unto fables. The condition of this class is a sad one; for unless some power shall break the spell that is upon them, they will be lost, eternally lost.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 10)
God’s people will be called to pass through trying experiences. Many will fall at their post, betrayed and condemned by their fellow men. In such times of trial they can remember that the Saviour suffered in like manner, passed over that very ground in their behalf. His followers will never be called to suffer more than He endured in order to win salvation for them. Let us work then as unto God.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 11)
We have the record of the Saviour’s life and death of humiliation and suffering. It is not possible that any human being could suffer more. “They crucified Him, and parted His garments, casting lots.... And set up over His head His accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS. Then there were two thieves crucified with Him, one on the right hand, and another on the left. And they that passed by reviled Him, wagging their heads, and saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save Thyself. If Thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 12)
“Likewise also the chief priests mocking Him, with the scribes and elders said, He saved others; Himself He cannot save; if He be the King of Israel, let Him now come down from the cross, and we will believe Him. He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now, if He will have Him; for He said, I am the Son of God. The thieves also, which were crucified with Him, cast the same in His teeth.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 13)
“Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me? Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias. And straightway one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave Him to drink. The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 14)
“Jesus, when He had cried with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. And, behold, the vail of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, and came out of the graves after His resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 15)
“Now when the centurion, and they that were with Him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they greatly feared, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. And many women beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto Him; among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children.” [Matthew 27:35, 37-56.]
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 16)
Christ was nailed to the cross between the third and sixth hour, that is between nine and twelve o’clock. In the afternoon He died. This was the hour of the evening sacrifice. Then the vail of the temple, that which hid God’s glory from the view of the congregation of Israel, was rent in twain from top to bottom.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 17)
Through Christ the hidden glory of the holy of holies was to stand revealed. He had suffered death for every man, and by this offering, the sons of men were to become the sons of God. With open face, beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, believers in Christ were to be changed into the same image, from glory to glory. The mercy seat, upon which the glory of God rested in the holiest of all, is opened to all who accept Christ as the propitiation for sin; and through its medium, they are brought into fellowship with God. The vail is rent, the partition walls broken down, the handwriting of ordinances canceled. By virtue of His blood the enmity is abolished. Through faith in Christ Jew and Gentile may partake of the living bread.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 18)
Christ was in the full strength of life when He died. After all the abuse He had suffered, the agony, caused by the nails driven into His hands and feet, the scourging, the crown of thorns and the long hours of hanging upon the cross, His life was strong within Him, and He cried with a loud voice. He heard every word of the taunts of His enemies. He heard also the appeal of the dying thief for pardon, and quickly came the response from the Sacrifice for all sin, “Verily I say unto thee today, Thou shalt be with Me in Paradise.” [Luke 23:43.]
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 19)
The words of pardon to the penitent thief struck the death knell to Satan’s hope that he could overcome the royal sufferer. Through all the abuse and suffering that had been heaped upon Christ, not one word had escaped His lips that detracted from His holy dignity. When to the eyes of man He hung conquered and dying, He could speak words of comfort and hope to the one at His side who acknowledged Him as a Saviour. The sinless One, equal with God, had stood the test and trial, and Satan knew that his own death knell was sounded in the heavenly courts.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 20)
“And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins, wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 21)
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness to us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast; for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 22)
“Wherefore remember that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were afar off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” [Ephesians 2:1-13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 23)
“Blessed be the Lord and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations.” [1 Peter 1:3-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 24)
Observe why temptations are permitted to come to us: “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold which perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Christ: whom having not seen ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” [Verses 7-9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 25)
Read the whole of this first chapter of the First Epistle of Peter. It contains instruction of the highest value. The Word is open to all. Read with the understanding open to comprehend the importance of its lessons. To all who preach the Word, this message is sent: Study your Bible faithfully; and then commit the keeping of your souls, not to any human agency, but to the living God. Do not lift up your souls in self-importance; for God will surely humble those who exalt themselves. You need in every phase of your experience to be learners as God’s little children. All who minister in word and doctrine need to walk and work in meekness and lowliness of mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 230, 1907, 26)
Lt 232, 1907
Burden, J. A. St. Helena, California August, 1, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Elder John A. Burden Dear Brother:
I urge you to do all you can to secure the Doctors Nicola to work in the Loma Linda Sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 232, 1907, 1)
I think it is a mistake to propose that the children shall not have their board in the offer which you make to them. We should avoid, if possible, allowing any small matter to act as a weight in balancing them to make final decision on the wrong side.
(22LtMs, Lt 232, 1907, 2)
Yesterday Willie said that in dealing with blind men, we must have faith that the Lord can make them to see. I hope that you will urge Brother and Sister Nicola to come to Southern California; and I do hope it is not too late. I am very sorry that more earnest action was not taken to secure them, when they seemed willing to come.
(22LtMs, Lt 232, 1907, 3)
I believe Dr. Nicola to be an honest man, and I pray the Lord to help us to act our part in an effort to save him from the deception that is upon many minds. I cannot endure the thought of his being lost to the cause and work of God. Please give your best attention to this business at once. We must do all we can to help those whom it is possible to help. Let us hope that special efforts made just now will influence them, and let us pray most earnestly for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We must watch for souls as they that must give an account.
(22LtMs, Lt 232, 1907, 4)
Since the St. Helena camp-meeting, I have suffered much. If the heat is likely to be oppressive, it is not best for me to undertake to attend the Los Angeles camp-meeting. I would be pleased to bear my testimony at that meeting, and I have some letters written that can be read there if I do not attend.
(22LtMs, Lt 232, 1907, 5)
Today I have been feeling better than at any time since the camp-meeting. I have written quite an article regarding the evil of men accepting the responsibility of taking charge of the consciences of their brethren in the faith, and allowing themselves to stand in the place which God alone should occupy.
(22LtMs, Lt 232, 1907, 6)
I shall be glad to hear what you have written to Dr. Nicola.
(22LtMs, Lt 232, 1907, 7)
Lt 234, 1907
Nicola, Brother and Sister [C. C.] St. Helena, California August 2, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brother and Sister Nicola:
Three or four weeks ago I sent you quite a lengthy letter addressed Melrose. Have you received this letter? I sent it to Melrose, as I was not certain of your whereabouts. In that letter I expressed my earnest desire that you might connect with the sanitarium at Loma Linda. You were presented to me as the very ones who were adapted for the work in that place. I wish to renew my request that you take up the work there.
(22LtMs, Lt 234, 1907, 1)
I have been shown that Dr. Paulson is so connected with the opposing element at Battle Creek, that God is not honored by his course. He has been warned of his danger, but he does not place himself decidedly on the side of truth and evidence. I have a great desire to meet you; for I have been shown the danger you are in of taking your position on the wrong side.
(22LtMs, Lt 234, 1907, 2)
I long to see our people aroused. I long to see them moved by the Spirit of God. It is the grace of Christ that we must have. My soul pants for the water of life. We may each have this, if we will. Self is seeking for recognition; but self must die and the Spirit of God take possession of the human heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 234, 1907, 3)
I urge you to accept the proposition to take up work at Loma Linda, and to do it in the name of the Lord. I know the Lord will be your helper if you place yourselves in right relation to Him and plant your feet on the eternal Rock. I pray that God may help you to make a right decision. I want to see you standing on vantage ground.
(22LtMs, Lt 234, 1907, 4)
Lt 236, 1907
Baird, A. S. St. Helena, California July 26, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mr. A. S. Baird
Takoma Park, Washington, D.C. Dear Brother:
There is a matter which I wish to place before you. About a year ago my granddaughter Mabel White was married to Wilfred D. Workman, a sturdy young man about twenty-six years old. He has had an all-round experience as a farmer and a good experience as a canvasser.
(22LtMs, Lt 236, 1907, 1)
Since their marriage he and Mabel have had quite an experience in bearing responsibility. He was manager of the outside work at the Healdsburg College, and Mabel was matron. He desires to get an all-round experience as a teacher, builder, and business manager; and we would be pleased to see him connected with you, working upon the new school building that our brethren are talking of erecting this fall.
(22LtMs, Lt 236, 1907, 2)
He has worked hard for his school advantages thus far. We find him to be a man of excellent principle, as well as a capable worker. W. C. White and I are anxious that he should find a place with you and learn what he can of the art of building. Later on he may be able to connect with the school. In his work he is prompt and faithful, and I think he will be a help and not a hindrance.
(22LtMs, Lt 236, 1907, 3)
Will you please to consider our request, and secure for him a place on the work, if you can. Let me hear from you soon.
(22LtMs, Lt 236, 1907, 4)
Lt 238, 1907
Baird, Brother and Sister [A. S.] St. Helena, California July 29, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2MCP 558. Mr. and Mrs. A. S. Baird Dear Brother and Sister Baird:
I wish I were able to be in Washington and see you all. If it were not so far, I should certainly visit Washington again.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 1)
I have the deepest interest in yourself and your wife. I am anxious that your wife shall be one of Christ’s little children, learning of the precious Teacher every day and enjoying the comforts of his grace. We all need to study the life and the teachings of Christ. As His little children, we should walk carefully in His footsteps and reveal to the world in our daily life the lessons that many need to learn.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 2)
Our Saviour has plainly stated, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” [Luke 9:23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 3)
We are all, my dear Sister Baird, to be learners every day, by earnest prayer and faithfully doing His will. We are to be doers of the Word. Christ is the great Medical Missionary that came to our world. With the price of His own blood, He has purchased our service.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 4)
The Father “so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 5)
We each have a special work to do. No other one can carry our responsibilities.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 6)
“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and He is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the world. And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 8)
“He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him. He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” [1 John 2:1-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 9)
What a responsibility rests upon every one of us who knows the truth through the Word. Now is our time of test. With our whole heart we thank God that we have the privilege of representing our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, before the world, as one that taketh away sin. We are to be witnesses of this fact. The more we love Jesus, the more will we practice His virtues, and the greater will be our influence for good over those who know Him not.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 10)
Genuine conversion unites your heart in clinging faith to the Friend of sinners. You join your weakness to His strength: you join your ignorance to His wisdom. Your efforts will then be, under His guidance, a power for good.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 11)
How wonderful is the work of grace upon the human heart! It gives mental power, wisdom to use the talent of means, not in self-pleasing, but through self-denial, to carry forward missionary work. Christ, the Son of God, was a missionary to our world. He says, Whoso will follow, let him forsake all. You cannot love Him, while copying the fashions of the world or enjoying worldly society.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 12)
May God bless you.
(22LtMs, Lt 238, 1907, 13)
Lt 240, 1907
Olsen, O. A. St. Helena, California August 4, 1907 Previously unpublished. +
Dear Brother Olsen:
It is Sunday morning. I have just read your letter, which came last evening. I am glad you expressed yourself as fully as you did.
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 1)
The Wahroonga Sanitarium is needed just where it is; but in order to accomplish the work that God designs shall be done through this institution, the very best religious influences must be brought into the sanitarium family. The workers must bring into their daily work the principles of Bible religion; the Holy Spirit, working upon the heart of each individual worker, is to be revealed in acts of practical godliness. A constant influence for good is to be exerted. If each worker is earnestly seeking to glorify God, this influence will not be strained or unnatural, but will be shed abroad in the life as the natural result of the presence of the Spirit of God in the heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 2)
The work of our sanitariums is a sacred work and should be conducted intelligently. Every such institution should have a competent staff of helpers, and these workers should be men and women who realize that the results of their work will be as far-reaching as eternity. Every worker must draw for himself from the reservoir of knowledge and wisdom and sanctification and righteousness. These workers are daily to be living epistles, known and read by those whom they serve.
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 3)
The influence of the sanitarium family should be a united influence, each member seeking to become a power for good in that department in which he labors. If this result is obtained, there must first be a weeding out of every lame principle; then the workers can hope to succeed in perfecting themselves as Christian workers. It is only as they place themselves under discipline to God, conforming their daily lives to the pattern they have in the example of the Saviour’s earthly life, that they can become partakers of the divine nature and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. As long as we are here in this world, we are on test and trial. We will be held accountable, not only for the working out of our own salvation, but for the influence for good or evil that we exert on other souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 4)
It is for our present and eternal interest to study the life of Christ, and let His example of self-denial and self-sacrifice, His intense interest in behalf of suffering humanity, teach us our duty to those who come within the reach of our influence. We are to be “laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Every other consideration should be of little consequence besides this. By daily prayer, by constant watching to answer our own prayers, we are to become workers together with Him who went about doing good.
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 5)
“Grace and peace be multiplied unto you,” the Holy Spirit through Peter declares, “through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue; whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:2-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 6)
These words reveal the true meaning of our lifework in this world. And as we work out the sum of addition, God works for us upon the plan of multiplication. “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [Verses 10, 11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 7)
We are presented with a life insurance policy, which makes certain for us eternal life in the kingdom of God. But there are conditions to our receiving it. If we fail to respect the conditions, by refusing to add grace to grace in our daily life, we cannot expect God to work for us on the plan of multiplication. Then let us appropriate to our need the necessary graces, working out our salvation with fear and trembling. Let us make diligent effort to attain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who hath called us to glory and virtue. Grace abundant is reserved for every diligent seeker, and the promise is sure. If we do these things, the promise is that we shall secure eternal life. We shall become members of the royal family, and eternal riches will be our reward.
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 8)
God bids you walk in the light. Be cheerful, righteously cheerful. “He that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. And who is he that will harm you if ye be followers of that which is good? But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.” [1 Peter 3:10-15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 9)
In these words is clearly outlined the work of all who hold positions of responsibility. Life and character are to undergo a process of education. Heart and mind are to be brought under the control of God. Those holding positions of trust are to educate and train young men and women to be channels of light to the world. “The grace of God that bringeth salvation, hath appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.” [Titus 2:11-15.]
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 10)
I have heard the remark made by some that the truth brings us all down upon a level. It is a mistake to think that the truth ever brings the receiver down. It lifts him to a high level, refines his character, and sanctifies his judgment. If the truth is practiced, it will do its work of sanctification upon the receiver until he becomes a partaker of the divine nature. The truth received into the life works out for the recipient a character that fits him for the society of holy angels in the city of God. A solemn duty rests upon every individual worker who accepts a part in the cause of present truth. He is to let the sanctifying influence of the truth accomplish its work on heart and mind, then reveal that truth in words and deeds of righteousness.
(22LtMs, Lt 240, 1907, 11)
Lt 242, 1907
Nicola, Mary St. Helena, California August 6, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 226-227. + Dr. M. Nicola
Hinsdale, Chicago, Illinois Dear Sister Nicola:
I read your letter yesterday, and I would say in response, I want you to make straight paths for your feet. I would not have your husband placed where he will be overtaxed. This you must carefully guard against. In writing to you, I did so for the good of both yourself and your husband. Your husband must not take too many burdens upon himself, and you can help in arranging his work, so that this shall not be.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 1)
My sister, you and your husband need at this time the words spoken to the church in Sardis: “These things saith He that hath the seven spirits of God, and the seven stars, I know thy works. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember how thou hast received and heard; and hold fast, and repent. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments. And they shall walk with Me in white; for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life; but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” [Revelation 3:1-5.] It means very much to every soul, at this time, what stand they shall take toward the work of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 2)
My brother and sister, I would urge you not to bind yourselves up with the work of the sanitarium at Hinsdale. Chicago is not the best place for you to live. Loma Linda is the place where you should be. I ask you, for reasons which I shall not now state, to accept the position at Loma Linda. Acceptable provision will be made for your children. I did not design to write you particulars.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 3)
I ask you now to connect with the sanitarium at Loma Linda, for I cannot have you go into peril unwarned. I fear that confusion will come to you as the result of your remaining where you are. I pray that you may be led to place yourselves on the right side. I have felt deeply over your affliction, and I have seen how important it is that your faith be firmly established in a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” I hold you very near to my heart, and I desire that you both shall be placed where the Lord can lead you and abundantly bless you.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 4)
If Dr. Nicola will commit his case fully to God, to follow on to know His ways, the peace of God will come into his heart and the light of heaven shine into his mind. We are living in perilous times, when the powers of darkness are constantly at work to overthrow our faith. “It is written” is to be our anchor. The assertions of men are of little value. Only he who makes the Word of God his anchor will be secure.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 5)
Those who would be safe teachers of the truth, must first be learners in the school of Christ. You must recognize in Christ a personal Saviour if you would lead those whom you instruct to Him. Christ invites, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden; and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Learning the lessons of Christ, you will find rest.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 6)
Christ is the great fountain head of all wisdom, the One who never makes a mistake. All the treasures of heaven were committed to Him that He might impart them to the persevering seeker after truth. The Son of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. Teachers should bear in mind that He is the great standard for all teachers. Beholding Christ, and studying His teachings, you will learn to appreciate their originality, their authority, their spirituality, their tenderness, their benevolence, and their practicability. All who dig for the treasure of truth will be imbued with the Spirit of Christ. By beholding Him, they will be changed into the same image.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 7)
Those who make the Word of God their counselor will realize the weakness of the human heart; but they will find courage in the assurance that the power of the grace of God is sufficient to subdue every unsanctified, unholy impulse. When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him. And when the Spirit of the Lord lifts up for His blood-bought heritage a standard against the enemy, the principles of the Word of truth will bear sway in the life. Having surrendered themselves to the will of God, they reveal a faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 242, 1907, 8)
Lt 244, 1907
Burden, J. A. St. Helena, California August 8, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 227-229. Elder J. A. Burden
Loma Linda Sanitarium
California Dear Brother and Sister Burden:
Yesterday I sent you a copy of the letter I wrote to Brother and Sister Nicola. Having written thus to them, I think I have done my duty in that respect.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 1)
I felt that we ought to make way for them to come to the Loma Linda Sanitarium, but it was not my thought that they should be placed in charge of the training of the workers. From the light that God has given me, I know that they have had great confidence in Dr. Kellogg, and this has influenced them to some extent. Their spiritual experience is not what it should be, and the Melrose Sanitarium has not maintained the high spiritual standing that it ought. They have been carrying the work there too much as worldlings would conduct it. Our sanitariums were instituted for a special work, and God cannot prosper them unless they maintain a high standard in religious matters. The truth for these times is to be revealed in every department of the sanitarium work.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 2)
In desiring that Brother and Sister Nicola be given an opportunity to connect with the Loma Linda Sanitarium, I have no wish that you should concede in any way to any ideas and practices that are not in harmony with the principles that God has told us must be maintained. Do not open the way for them to become rulers, but give them an opportunity to be with those who teach the truth in its purity. They have been lost in the fog, and I desire that they shall be fully recovered.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 3)
Satan often finds a powerful agency for evil in the power which one human mind is capable of exerting on another human mind. This influence is so seductive, that the person who is being molded by it is often unconscious of its power. God has bidden me speak warning against this evil, that His servants may not come under the deceptive power of Satan. The enemy is a master worker, and if God’s people are not constantly led by the Spirit of God, they will be snared and taken.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 4)
For thousands of years Satan has been experimenting upon the properties of the human mind, and he has learned to know it well. By his subtle workings in these last days, he is linking the human mind with his own, imbuing it with his thoughts; and he is doing this work in so deceptive a manner that those who accept his guidance know not that they are being led by him at his will. The great deceiver hopes so to confuse the minds of men and women, that none but his voice will be heard.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 5)
When Christ revealed to Peter the time of trial and suffering that was just before Him, and Peter replied, “Be it far from Thee, Lord; this shall not be unto Thee,” the Saviour commanded, “Get thee behind Me, Satan.” [Matthew 16:21-23.] Satan was speaking through Peter, making him act the part of the tempter. Satan’s presence was unsuspected by Peter, but Christ could detect the presence of the deceiver; and in His rebuke to Peter, He addressed the real foe. On one occasion, speaking to the twelve, and referring to Judas, Christ declared, “One of you is a devil.” [John 6:70.] Often in the days of His earthly ministry the Saviour met His adversary in human form, when Satan as an unclean spirit took possession of men. Satan takes possession of the minds of men today. In my labors in the cause of God, I have again and again met those who have been thus possessed, and in the name of the Lord I have rebuked the evil spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 6)
It is not by force that Satan takes possession of the human mind. While men sleep, the enemy sows tares in the church. While men are spiritually sleeping, the enemy accomplishes his work of iniquity. It is when his subject “understandeth it not” that he catcheth away the good seed sown in the heart. [Matthew 13:19.] When men and women are in this condition, when their spiritual life is not being constantly fed by the Spirit of God, Satan can imbue them with his spirit and lead them to work his works.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 7)
I will not write more on this subject at this time. But I entreat that there may be a putting away from the life every action which does not bear the approval of God. We are drawing near to the close of earth’s history; the battle is growing daily more fierce. There is a day appointed when men who have bowed to the mandates of Satan will find themselves the subjects of the wrath of God, when the Judge of all the earth shall pronounce the sentence against Satan and his adherents, “Depart from Me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.” [Matthew 25:41.]
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 8)
Now, my dear friends, we have a peculiar work before us in the case of Brother and Sister Nicola. As Christ’s messengers, we have a special work to do to save these people. This is a test case. I have sent you the letter I wrote them, that you may understand how the matter stands.
(22LtMs, Lt 244, 1907, 9)
Lt 246, 1907
Laborers in Southern California St. Helena, California July 29, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 6Bio 148, 151. To the Laborers in Southern California Dear Brethren:
I would be pleased to see you and talk over some matters with you. I dare not venture to attend the meeting that will be held in Los Angeles, but I will send some manuscripts to be read at that meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 246, 1907, 1)
I am deeply convicted on some points. I must speak in regard to the position that Elder Reaser is occupying. I know, from the light God has given me, that if this is allowed to continue, God will be greatly dishonored. God calls His servants to seek light and understanding and spiritual strength from One who is infinite in wisdom; they are to put their dependence upon One who is able to help in every emergency.
(22LtMs, Lt 246, 1907, 2)
The conditions that have existed in Southern California this past year are not such as God can approve. To those who have clear discernment, it is not hard to see the results of placing men in positions where they are mind and judgment for their brethren. Those who accept such a work and authority show that they have not a true and wise understanding of the Scriptures. If these men were close students of the Word of God, they would see that by adopting such a course, they are leading men and women to depend on human wisdom instead of seeking it from God.
(22LtMs, Lt 246, 1907, 3)
God declares, “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” [James 1:5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 246, 1907, 4)
Lt 248, 1907
Colorado Conference St. Helena, California August 13, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 1MCP 22-23. + To the Colorado Conference:
This morning I was awakened before one o’clock to write out what has been shown me regarding the work in Colorado. In the night season I seemed to be at the Colorado camp-meeting. I was shown that if that meeting is conducted aright, it will result to the glory of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 1)
Our Instructor was present at the meeting, and He said: You have important matters to consider at this meeting. Decided changes are to be brought about; for mistakes have been made that need to be corrected. There is a deep heart work to be done at this meeting. There are ministers and physicians in Colorado who have been doing a work which reveals unconverted hearts and the lack of an abiding Christ. They need a thorough conversion; for they have not helped the work of God, but have kept minds in uncertainty. The irreligious sentiments that have existed in their hearts have been revealed in their words and their works. If physicians and ministers would gain the experience that is of highest consequence, and which will fit them for the future life, they must bear in mind that Christ is not divided.
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 2)
At different times decided messages have been given to the brethren in Colorado, but they have not heeded the word as they should. Now the message is given to ministers and physicians in this conference, “Lay hold upon the words God is giving to His people, and practice them.” Each worker must do this if he would have the help of the Lord in the times of emergency which every soul must meet. God calls upon the workers to break up the determination that has been manifested to carry human plans and devisings. He wants those who in the past have followed their own will and way, instead of the will and way of the Lord, to humble their souls before Him and confess their wrong. Some have been so filled with their desire to tear down and supplant men of God’s appointment, men who are striving to carry forward the work in right lines, that they have worked hand in hand with the great deceiver. Men of talent have put their capabilities to use according to their own desires and pleasure, and in order to secure their own ends. They have not realized what would be the result of the work they have devised. The great deceiver has so woven his sentiments into their thoughts, that not withstanding light from God has been given them, they have consulted together and planned together to carry out these evil sentiments. They have done this at great loss to themselves.
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 3)
Jesus gave His life to save the sheep of His pasture. “I lay down My life for the sheep,” He declared. [John 10:15.] The sacrifice of Christ was made that men might learn how to make their lives a convincing power for truth and righteousness. But the churches are so full of selfishness, that God’s will is not done. The truth, professedly received, does not sanctify the soul of the receiver. There is so much worship of the human will, that the Holy Spirit cannot make its impression on the mind. If those who have the light of truth were abiding in Christ, changes would be wrought in life and character that we do not now see. God’s people have an earnest work to do; for the end of all things, so long foretold, is very near.
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 4)
The question was asked Christ, “Are there few that be saved?” [Luke 13:23.] The Saviour’s reply to the inquiry is of highest consequence to us. “Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction; and many there be that go in thereat. Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, that leadeth unto life; and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 5)
Then the warning is given, “Beware of false prophets, which come unto you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns? or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit; neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 6)
“Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven. Many shall say unto Me in the day, Lord, Lord, (as if He were making a great mistake in the estimate of their character) have we not prophesied in Thy name, and in Thy name have cast out devils, and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you; depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.” [Verses 15-23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 7)
Read also (verses 24-29) of this seventh chapter of Matthew. We are drawing near to the close of earth’s history when everything will be in confusion. Satan is stealthily working to confuse the minds of those who know the truth by bringing in misleading sentiments. Unless they repent, and are converted, those who are living divided lives, professedly serving the Lord, but at the same time scheming to carry out their own plans—plans which retard the very work which Christ gave His life to accomplish, will be deceived by the enemy of souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 248, 1907, 8)
Lt 250, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California August 15, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 6Bio 134. Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I have received several letters from you, which I highly appreciate; but I have been so fully occupied with urgent writing that I have not found time to answer letters. We are looking over my writings and preparing matter to be read at our camp-meetings at Los Angeles and Denver.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 1)
I have not been well since the St. Helena camp-meeting. Early this morning I had an ill turn and have not yet recovered my strength. Willie came to see me, but I could talk with him only a few minutes. He prayed with me and then handed me an encouraging letter from Brother I. A. Ford, telling how my testimony was received by the workers at the Nashville Publishing House.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 2)
I am anxious to go ahead with my examination of my diaries. I feel very thankful to God for the brain power He gives me; my mind is usually clear. I begin my work as soon as the daylight comes. I do not now try often to work by lamplight.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 3)
I would like most to see you. May the Lord bless you in your labors.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 4)
I sometimes desire very much that I may stand once more in Battle Creek to encourage our people. Perhaps in the fall I may be strong enough to do this. I have a message that I would be pleased to bear in person to the people in Battle Creek.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 5)
I wish it might be possible for you to attend the meeting at Los Angeles; but I am glad that you are at Melrose. The Lord has presented that institution before me, and I have known for a long time that the physicians were not managing matters in a Christlike way. In some things the work of the sanitarium has been turned away from its true object, and the Lord has been dishonored. God does not want our nurses to be educated so that their aim will be to stand well in the opinion of the world. He wants them to be led into the light God has given.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 6)
I am glad that you are at Melrose. You can do a good work for the helpers and for the institution. I wish that you might make your home at the sanitarium for a while; for I know you could be a source of encouragement and a help to Dr. Prince and his associates. I pray that now the blessing of the Lord will come to that institution.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 7)
I was instructed that Satan would make every effort to get control of the Melrose Sanitarium. I was also shown that Brother and Sister Nicola were somewhat under the influence of Dr. Kellogg, and that through his influence there was danger of the Melrose Sanitarium’s being placed where the conference could have no voice in its management.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 8)
I do not expect to attend the Los Angeles meeting. My writings must not be neglected; many of them should have been in print long ago. At present I am writing out some testimonies for Boulder and other Colorado churches.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 9)
I will write again soon. I think you are just where you should be. Do not fail nor be discouraged. We have a grand work to do, and the Lord will help us to carry it on. I shall be grateful if your strength will permit you to spend much time in connection with the Melrose Sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 10)
In love.
(22LtMs, Lt 250, 1907, 11)
Lt 252, 1907
Colorado Conference Committee and Dr. Place St. Helena, California August 15, 1907 Previously unpublished. To the Colorado Conference Committee and Dr. Place:
I have written much concerning the church and sanitarium at Colorado. The sanitarium at Colorado was established in rather a strange way. At that time money was quite plentiful, and a large amount was expended by those who had the institution in charge. Thus a heavy debt accumulated. The management was not that which the Lord could approve: He revealed that a change was needed; and this was brought about.
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 1)
Concerning the second sanitarium established in Boulder, the Lord gave me instruction that He did not regard its management with approval. It was conducted too much after the customs of the world. The history of both these institutions is familiar to you and need not be repeated here.
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 2)
It was well that the managers of our Colorado sanitarium did not purchase the Place Sanitarium. The debt which it already has is all that it should carry.
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 3)
There could not have been a more inconsistent move than the establishment of this second sanitarium so near the one that was struggling for an existence. Through the working of unconsecrated men, the work of the Boulder Sanitarium has been crippled and an indebtedness incurred that need not have been. But the Lord declares concerning the Boulder Sanitarium, “Let it live.” And He has pointed out the wrong of establishing another institution so near the first. The sanitarium established by Dr. Place is not being managed according to the way of the Lord. Dr. Place has not the religious principle to enable him to make it what the Lord desires our sanitariums should be. By his course he has misinterpreted the object for which our sanitariums are established, and this he will continue to do as long as he is guided by the spirit that has controlled his actions in the past. Such a showing is not a true representation of what our sanitariums should be.
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 4)
Dr. Place, I pray that the Lord may so subdue and sanctify your heart through a belief of the truth, that I shall not have to say many things that might be said. God wants your soul saved through a belief of the truth. As a professed believer in the truth, God is testing your capability for serving Him. You have been weighed in the balance of the God of heaven, and you have been pronounced wanting. He has been weighing the past and present of the men who have supported you in this wrong work, and they also have proved wanting. They have been unable to endure the test. Be warned of your danger. Your persistent determination to follow your own judgment, if continued in, will place you fully on the enemy’s side.
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 5)
Dr. Place, you need a deep work of grace to be done in your heart. You need to empty the soul temple of its selfishness. You have need of practical godliness in the home life. Now, while the sweet voice of mercy is calling, improve your opportunity. While it is called today, harden not your heart. Will you not now humble your heart in repentance before God, and make thorough work for eternity?
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 6)
The words were spoken: “Abide in Me.” The Word of God should be your [guide], but you are not being led and taught by the Word. In the course you have taken, you have met with unspeakable loss. You have hurt and imperiled souls, you have sown the seeds of tares. The Lord desires that reliable men shall now come into Boulder, that the work may be adjusted; and those whom He designs shall be enlightened shall not be steeped in deeper darkness.
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 7)
I am sorry for Elder Place, for he has been on the losing side. The Lord gave him a work to do as a minister of the Word. He did not send him to the sanitarium in Boulder. But Elder Place has linked up with men who have not been led and taught of God. These men are men of capability, but they have deceived themselves and others; and unless there is a change in their spiritual condition, they will continue their work of deception. Would that the converting power of God might transform their hearts and lives!
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 8)
To the laborers in Colorado I am bidden to say, God calls for a work of reformation in your work. Men, ministers and doctors, who in the past have sustained this sanitarium, should place their influence on the side of the institution that is standing as a representative of health reform. For the sake of those who have enlisted as health reformers to carry on the work of the sanitarium according to right principles, place your influence where it will help and encourage. It is not reasonable or just that you should by word or act help on an enterprise that is counterworking the work of the cause of truth in the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 252, 1907, 9)
Lt 254, 1907
Kress, D. H. St. Helena, California August 15, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Dr. D. H. Kress
Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. My much-beloved Brother and Sister Kress:
I have read your letters to me and to my son with much interest. For the last four weeks I have had little strength and have not written many letters. With this I will send you one just written to Elder Haskell.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 1)
A few days ago, I read a letter from Elder Underwood, telling about the difficulties of the ministers in Minnesota who are paid very low wages. An experienced city laborer received thirteen dollars a week, and other laborers $10, and one $8.50. It is a question which has been presented to me again and again, and I have written a testimony that there should be more equality between ministers and physicians. I pray that you may consider the matter carefully and prayerfully. Do not make excuses for yourself because of what others are doing. Seek the Lord for advice and counsel.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 2)
Our brethren in the medical work should bind about their desires for large salaries; for by setting an example in this, they are opening the way for workers in other departments to do the same. The Lord forbids that any such course shall be taken. If large wages are demanded by the workers in the Washington Sanitarium, I shall be much surprised if there is any surplus money after the wages of the workers are paid. And this ought not to be.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 3)
The Lord must be the wisdom and righteousness and sanctification of His servants. Calls for workers are coming in from all parts of the world. Means are called for to open new fields. Laborers need to be supported in many fields where it is impossible for them to be wholly self-supporting. While the needs of the world are making such demands upon us, our sanitariums will not be honoring God, if they indulge in any form of extravagance. They must work in Christ’s lines.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 4)
From the first I have tried to teach that the workers who engage in this cause must not expect large salaries. It would be most unwise for such a spirit to come into our work now when we are drawing so near to its close. God would be pleased to have you and your wife and your children economize, and thus leave a true record of how the faithful worker will labor. Do not repeat the mistakes that have been made at Battle Creek. If this spirit comes into our work, the missionary spirit will leave us, and our work for the cause of God will be hindered.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 5)
Cannot we see, my brother, that the end of all things is at hand? Every believer should have his senses keenly alert to the needs of the cause of God, his ear open to the Macedonian cry: Come over and help us. We must not now seek to obtain for our children the long course of education that our people have taken in former years. Fathers and mothers and children, in these closing days of the message, are to seek for the simplicity of the gospel, as it was revealed in the Saviour’s life of ministry.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 6)
Do not be in a hurry to send your daughter to a medical college. She has been in school much of her lifetime. Nothing will be more effectual in teaching her to carry out the mind and purpose of God than an education in how to perform the practical duties of life. I am beginning to fear that we prepare the way for many of the mistakes we make by opening the way for the making of them.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 7)
That which is of highest importance for you to do is to give character to the work. This is the instruction you have given to others. There is an important education for your daughter to gain right in the institution where you are. I sincerely hope that you will count the cost of this move and be influenced by the thought of what your example means to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 254, 1907, 8)
Lt 256, 1907
Rice, Brother and Sister [J. D.] St. Helena, California August 15, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Rice:
I have read a copy of the letter which Elder Knox wrote to you August 8, suggesting that you labor some in Alameda.
(22LtMs, Lt 256, 1907, 1)
I am glad hat Elder Knox has made this proposition. I see no reason why you should not accept it and show yourselves willing to undertake the thing which he proposes. This opens the door for you for ministry on the Sabbath, and it makes of none effect the action of those who have not been willing to harmonize with you. I hope you will think best to act upon this suggestion. There should always be on our part a willingness to concede to the requests and wishes of our brethren. You know that if this proposition is rejected by you that the impression will go forth that you do not seek to harmonize with your brethren. There are stormy times before us, and we must draw together.
(22LtMs, Lt 256, 1907, 2)
I have not been strong since the St. Helena camp-meeting, and I have not written many letters. During the last few days the Lord has given me strength to write some things to be read at the camp-meetings in Los Angeles and Denver.
(22LtMs, Lt 256, 1907, 3)
Tomorrow morning Willie goes to Sacramento; then to Fresno, and after the Sabbath, on to Los Angeles. Elder Daniells has telegraphed him to attend the meeting in Denver, and I suppose he will have to go.
(22LtMs, Lt 256, 1907, 4)
I shall be glad to hear from you regarding your welfare and the progress of your work.
(22LtMs, Lt 256, 1907, 5)
Lt 258, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California August 16, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in Mar 283; 5BC 1083-1084; 7BC 946; OHC 23; TDG 237; LDE 27; 6Bio 134. + Elder J. E. White
Boulder, Colorado Dear Children:
I feel very grateful to my heavenly Father for His preserving care granted to me in my old age. I have written a great deal in the past two weeks; my pen has been in my hand nearly all the hours of daylight. Two nights I was not able to sleep past twelve o’clock; for my mind was burdened with several matters.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 1)
I am glad to be able to write you that we now have Brother and Sister Mason as members of our family; Mrs. Mason is doing the cooking for the family, and we are surprised and pleased that she does so well. She has been in delicate health for some years; but we believe that she will overcome this. For some time it has seemed impossible to secure anyone to fill the position of matron for my home.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 2)
Brother Mason is my bookkeeper. He is also able to help his wife in many ways about the work of the kitchen. Now that this vexing question of securing suitable help in the home is settled, I feel more restful in my mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 3)
I am very anxious to get into print the instruction that has been given me for our churches. We are all doing our best to bring this about; but I find the work very taxing on my strength. I pray that the Lord will strengthen my eyesight, that I may do the work that I see before me to be done.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 4)
Willie left St. Helena this morning. He came into my room before leaving, and we had a short season of prayer together. We shall all miss him very much. He will first attend the Los Angeles meeting, and then go on to Colorado. I did not feel that it was my duty to leave home to attend this meeting in Southern California; for I have been quite sick since the St. Helena meeting. The burden of the cause is upon me night and day; but I am putting my trust in the Lord. He will work for the good of His people and the glory of His name.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 5)
I received your letter this morning, telling of the calamity at Boulder, also the papers. I thank you for sending them. It was a strange occurrence. Did any of our people feel the effects of the disaster?
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 6)
I have been shown that the Spirit of the Lord is being withdrawn from the earth. God’s keeping power will soon be refused to all who continue to disregard His commandments. The reports of fraudulent transactions, murders, and crimes of every kind are coming to us daily. Iniquity is becoming so common a thing that it no longer shocks the senses as it once did. I have been shown that the whole world is fast becoming as it was in the days of Noah. “For as in the days that were before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying, and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark; and the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.... Watch therefore; for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.... Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:38, 39, 42, 44.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 7)
Before the Son of man appears in the clouds of heaven, everything in nature will be convulsed. Lightning from heaven, uniting with the fire in the earth, will cause the mountains to burn like a furnace and pour out their floods of lava over villages and cities. Molten masses of rock, thrown into the water by the upheaval of things hidden in the earth, will cause the water to boil, and they will send forth rocks and earth. There will be mighty earthquakes and great destruction of human life. But as in the days of the great deluge Noah was preserved in the ark that God had prepared for him, so in these days of destruction and calamity God will be the refuge of His believing ones. Through the psalmist, He declares: “Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.”“For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide me; He shall set me up upon a rock.” [Psalm 91:9, 10; 27:5.] Then shall we not make the Lord our surety and our defense?
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 8)
There is a work to be done at this time by those who believe that we are living in the closing days of this earth’s history. Light must be imparted to those who are in darkness. The truths of the Word of God must be brought in straight, clear lines to the people, whether they will receive them, or whether they will reject them. “Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily, I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.” [Matthew 24:45-47.] Here is represented a class of workers who will not fail nor become discouraged in their work.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 9)
“But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My Lord delayeth His coming; and shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards; the lord of that servant shall come in a day that he looketh not for him; and in an hour that he is not aware of; and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Verses 48-51.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 10)
Let us be children of the day. Let us walk in the light as Christ is in the light. Let us be sober, and watch unto prayer. We are warned that in these last days satanic influences will work with such power that if it were possible they would deceive even the very elect. But living amid these opposing forces, we may through the exercise of faith and prayer call to our side a retinue of heavenly angels, who will guard us from every corrupting influence. The worker who makes the Word of God his guide will walk in the light of the Lord and be safe.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 11)
A study of Christ’s wonderful sermon on the mount will teach the believer what must be the characteristics of those whom the Lord calls “Blessed.”“And seeing the multitude, He went up into a mountain: and when He was set, His disciples came unto Him.” [Matthew 5:1.] The disciples gathered as close as possible about the Saviour while He taught; but they were sharers of Christ’s burdens in His work of ministry. When any in the multitude were in need of help and healing, they brought these ones to Christ, that He might grant their requests. Thus they were laborers together with Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 12)
“And He opened His mouth and taught them saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” [Verses 2-12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 13)
I thank the Lord that such plain directions are given to believers. If we had no other instruction than is contained in these few words, here is sufficient, so that none need become bewildered. But we have a whole Bible full of precious instruction. None need be in darkness and uncertainty. Those who will seek by faith and prayer and earnest study of the Scriptures to obtain the virtues here brought to view will easily be distinguished from those who walk not in the light. Those who refuse to follow a Thus saith the Lord will have no excuse to render for their persistent resistance of the Word of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 14)
“Ye are the salt of the earth,” Christ declared; “but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith will it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick and it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 15)
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 13-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 16)
We have a message to bear to those who have not had the light of present truth; and in our work we must make no denial of our faith. A study of the history of the children of Israel will help us to learn lessons that will keep us from repeating the mistakes that spoiled their record. The Lord wonderfully delivered this people from their bondage to an oppressive king and Himself took charge of their vast army. He guided them by a pillar of cloud by day, and a pillar of fire by night—a cloud which enshrouded His own presence. He provided them with food in the wilderness; and they did eat angels’ food. But they longed for the flesh pots of Egypt. The food that God provided for them was that which would give them health and strength. But they murmured and asked for the food that they had had in the days of their bondage. The Lord granted their desires, although He knew that this food they craved would prove a curse instead of a blessing, as they thought. Read in the eleventh chapter of Numbers the result of their lust for flesh. “While the flesh was yet between their teeth, ere it was chewed, the wrath of the Lord was kindled against the people, and the Lord smote the people with a very great plague.” [Verse 33.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 17)
Soon after Israel’s encampment at Sinai, Moses was called up into the mount to meet with God. Alone he climbed the steep and rugged path and drew near to the cloud that marked the place of Jehovah’s presence. Israel was now to be taken into close and peculiar relationship to the Most High God. As a nation they were to come under the special government of God. Through Moses the message was given:
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 18)
“Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey My voice indeed, and keep My covenant, then shall ye be a peculiar treasure unto Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine; and ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests and an holy nation.” [Exodus 19:4-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 19)
Moses returned to the camp, and summoned the elders of Israel, and repeated to them the divine message. “And all the people answered together, All that the Lord hath spoken, we will do.” [Verse 8.] Thus they entered into a solemn covenant with God, pledging themselves to accept the Lord God as their ruler. They became in a special sense the subjects of His authority.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 20)
Then Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord. “And the Lord said unto Moses, Lo, I am come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee forever.” [Verse 9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 21)
Amid thunders and lightnings God spoke His law in the hearing of that vast multitude. God gave the occasion of the giving of the law one of awful grandeur. He desired that the people should understand the exalted character. The people must be taught that everything connected with His service must be regarded with the greatest reverence. The Sabbath command was not here given as something new, but as that which they had known in the past. “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy: six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work; thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” [Exodus 20:8-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 22)
The Sabbath day was to be sacredly observed as the memorial of the Creator’s work. Every week it was to call to their minds the Maker of the heavens and the earth. The Lord of heaven had rested on the seventh day at the close of Creation’s week, and His people through all time were to honor that day as the rest day of Jehovah.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 23)
All who keep the seventh day Sabbath signify by their act that they worship the only true God. It is a sign of their allegiance to Him. The fourth commandment is the only one of all the ten in which is made known the authority of the Lawgiver. Thus it becomes the seal of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 24)
The Lord has given man six days in which to labor. He bids him on the seventh to put away his own interests and pleasures and worship Him. Acts of necessity and mercy done on the Sabbath are not a transgression of the fourth commandment. Christ on the Sabbath performed works of healing, and in following His example, we cannot make a mistake.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 25)
In many respects we have not maintained the high standard that God required of His people. Many who have excellent abilities have allowed self to take possession. Little by little, the leaven of selfishness has worked until the whole lump is in danger of being leavened. Capabilities which were the gift of God have been perverted until objectionable traits of character rule, and the influence of many has become a dangerous thing. In Boulder, men who might have done a good work have allowed their senses to be perverted, and their course has been an offense to the Spirit of God. The Lord has declared that He will not serve with their sins. When men seek to turn aside the counsels of God to meet their own ideas, they deceive themselves and others. They learn to believe a lie.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 26)
The time left to us is very short. Let us put away all selfish indulgence; for this weakens the physical, mental, and moral strength and makes the human agent unable to have a true sense of the sacredness of God’s requirements.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 27)
I will not write more at this time, but I say to those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists, Can you claim the seal of living God? Can you claim that you are sanctified by the truth? We have not, as a people, given the law of God the pre-eminence as we should. We are in danger of doing our own pleasure on the Sabbath day.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 28)
Precious instruction has been given to our people in the books I have been charged to write. How many read and study these books? The light that God has given may be regarded with indifference and unbelief, but this light will condemn all who have not chosen to accept and obey it.
(22LtMs, Lt 258, 1907, 29)
Lt 260, 1907
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.] NP August 29, 1907 [typed] This letter is published in entirety in PC 280-281. + Dear Brother and Sister Burden:
I have been very anxious to learn something of the meetings you have been holding; W. C. White has written us no particulars. I would be glad if you would bear in mind that I am intensely interested in this meeting and desire to know about it. Has it meant victory or defeat?
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 1)
One night this week, I think it was Sunday, I did not sleep any through the entire night; and again on Wednesday, I had a wakeful night. I slept for a short time before three o’clock. While I lay awake, I spent the time in prayer, that God would give to His people sanctified and converted minds, that individually they might comprehend their duty and learn to reveal the power of the truth in sound speech that cannot be condemned.
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 2)
The talent of speech is a precious talent. The riches of the grace of Christ, which He is ever ready to bestow upon us, we are to impart in true, hopeful words. “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] If we would guard our words, so that nothing but kindness shall escape our lips, we will give evidence that we are preparing to become members of the heavenly family. In words and works we shall show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. O what a reformative influence would go forth if we as a people would value at its true worth the talent of speech and its influence upon human souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 3)
The Sabbath meetings, the morning and evening worship in the home, the services held in the chapel—all should be vitalized by the Spirit of Christ. Each member of the sanitarium family [should] confess Christ openly and with gladness, expressing the joy and comfort and hope that is written in the soul. Christ is to be set forth as the Chiefest among ten thousand, the One altogether lovely. He is to be set forth as the Giver of every good and perfect gift, the One in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. If we would do this, all narrowness must be set aside, and we must call into exercise the love of Christ. The joy we experience in this love will be a blessing to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 4)
I am bidden to say to the sanitarium family, Let your social meetings and all your religious exercises be characterized by a deep earnestness and a joy that expresses the love of God in the soul. Such meetings will be profitable to all; for they will bind heart to heart. Let there be earnest seasons of prayer; for prayer will give strength to the religious experience. Confess Christ openly and bravely, and manifest at all times the meekness of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 5)
The Lord would have the family of workers at Loma Linda channels of light. If we will keep the heart and mind opened heavenward, cherishing the comfort of His grace in the heart, the presence of Christ will be revealed. Let earnestness and zeal come into your lives. Make no backward movements. The Lord is our Helper, our Guide, our Shield, our exceeding Great Reward. Do not allow levity to come into your experience, but cultivate cheerfulness; for this is an excellent grace. We cannot afford to be unmindful of our words and deportment.
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 6)
During the past night I seemed to be standing before a large congregation, speaking to the people the words of life. I long to understand more perfectly about this meeting that was presented to me. I seemed to hear the sweet melody of praise to God, and expressions of gratitude were coming from souls that were the recipients of the grace of Christ. The voice of praise and thanksgiving was heard, and countenances were aglow with the light of the love of God. It seemed that angels’ voices united with those in the meeting who were offering praise to God.
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 7)
My father was a very cheerful Christian. No doleful testimony was ever suffered to go forth from his lips. When those about him were giving mournful testimonies, his voice would be heard, “What doth much increase the store? When I thank Him, He gives me more.”
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 8)
We all have very much to be thankful for; let us open our lips in praise and thanksgiving to God. Let us come nearer to the Lord Jesus and acknowledge our daily obligations to Him. He has made it possible for us to secure for ourselves a very happy life even in this world of sin and holds out the hope of being continually in His presence in the kingdom He is preparing for His people. Should not these thoughts call forth from us praise and thanksgiving? May the Lord bless you, and bless the sanitarium family, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 260, 1907, 9)
Lt 261, 1907
White, W. C. St. Helena, California August 25, 1907 Previously unpublished. W. C. White My dear Son:
I would be so glad to see you and I cannot; would be pleased to hear from you. Where you are I do not know, but I have sent much matter to you at Denver and Boulder. I suppose that your hard pull will be at Denver, because the men who have been determined to make it as hard as possible for Brother Wilcox will not yield their hearts to the Lord. I wish that they would give their hearts to the Lord and be converted. But we must have some strong men to stand by Elder Wilcox. He has done nobly because he has made the Lord his trust, and I hope and pray that those who have been so long in darkness may come to the light. This is a work that needs to be done for Elder Place. He has strengthened the hands of the ones who have been working counter to the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 261, 1907, 1)
When we see the strange things that have been brought in, we are just reminded that as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be when the Son of man shall be revealed. I am so sorry for Dr. Place, but his present condition has been increasing for years until the Lord shall withdraw His Holy Spirit and leave the contending elements to destroy themselves. I wish there would be a breaking up of the fallow ground of the heart, and that there would be such a renovation of mind, soul, and spirit as has never been seen before in Denver and in Boulder. Those who have their determined will, as have been represented to me—who have self at the helm—will soon, very soon, be left to their own evil surmising; and the Lord will put His Spirit in men who feel their own weakness and dare not rely upon men so strong in their own will and way that they are left to themselves.
(22LtMs, Lt 261, 1907, 2)
I call upon our churches in Denver, Colorado, and in Boulder. He who is the Truth has in His Word declared He is the Life. Ye are complete in Him who is Truth. Walk hopefully but humbly before God; break this terrible spirit that is striving for the mastery in every place possible. New methods and new ways will be brought in; but listen not to ministers or to doctors who would revamp the workers, for God forbids it. What a sad thing it is! Men who have capabilities could do a good and righteous work, if sanctified under the Holy Spirit’s guidance—if self would die. Our sanitarium would be worked in such a way as to present a practical embodiment of Christian principles.
(22LtMs, Lt 261, 1907, 3)
I am to speak to the men to whom the Lord has sent the testimonies of their mistakes. Shall they give evidence of decided change of heart, mind, words, and characters? When this is done there will be the evidence that Christ Himself stands at the head of the working forces. Holy angels supervise the work in every department, and all that is done in every line and in their different departments is to bear the impress of heaven, to show forth the excellence of the character of God. God has positively ordained that His work shall be presented to the world, bearing the heavenly signature. There must be a reformation in our churches and sanitariums. They are to be a sign unto the world of the heavenly influence over the violent, personal influences that are revealed, showing the plain distinction between him who serveth God and him who is controlled by satanic agencies.
(22LtMs, Lt 261, 1907, 4)
I am charged to say, Every provision is made for every soul in all holiness, in all goodness, and in meekness to demonstrate the superiority of heaven’s principles in all transactions, in every line of business. There is a purity of character that is of heavenly extraction. This the church in Denver must have or they will soon be ranked with satanic agencies. This must be the character of every sanitarium, and no violent, uncontrollable disposition must be permitted in the church or in the sanitarium. The Lord cannot accept in the heavenly courts those who venture to make the lives of others unpleasant by uncontrollable disposition.
(22LtMs, Lt 261, 1907, 5)
I am charged with a message: Christ gave His life to purchase every soul from the hand of the evil tyrant, and if a man or woman has reverence and gratitude to God for the great gift of Jesus Christ—that He could make it possible for them to be partakers of His divine nature, escaping the corruptions that are in the world through lust—that man or woman will, if saved, show a decidedly heavenly character in this world, demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in change of disposition. Then they will not be classed with the army of rebellious ones and receive their portion with hypocrites and unbelievers. Every spot and wrinkle of our characters that is offensive must be made white and tried.
(22LtMs, Lt 261, 1907, 6)
Lt 262, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California August 21, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 57. Elder J. E. White
Boulder, Colorado My dear Son:
Sara has just brought me the copy you sent of your letter to W. C. White, and I will say in response that I am all prepared for this emergency of which you write. That which I have written is in Willie’s hands, and he will take it with him to the Denver meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 262, 1907, 1)
Last night I awoke with a heavy burden on my soul. I left my bed and thought I would write out what had been presented to me concerning the work in Colorado. Then I thought, I have already written fully on this matter and have placed it in the hands of W. C. White.
(22LtMs, Lt 262, 1907, 2)
Willie left last Friday for Fresno and is probably at Los Angeles now. From Los Angeles he goes to Denver.
(22LtMs, Lt 262, 1907, 3)
I have been showing that the men who have been encouraging Dr. Place in his work of opposition are doing Satan’s work. The Lord now calls for a reform. He bids that this miserable work of rivalry be brought to a close. God will not permit Elder Wilcox to be overcome.
(22LtMs, Lt 262, 1907, 4)
I have a large amount of precious matter, written at Cooranbong, and dated, Dec. 20, 1896, which is just what is needed at this time. I will have it copied today and, if it is possible, get it off in the evening mail. I had lost all trace of these manuscripts, but this morning a pile of copies attracted my attention which, on looking over, I found to my surprise to be just what I wanted.
(22LtMs, Lt 262, 1907, 5)
I shall not dare to attend the camp-meeting, but the message God has sent for His people will still come to them. Tell Brother Wilcox that although he has not written me any word, the Lord has directed me in this time of emergency and has instructed me what I should do.
(22LtMs, Lt 262, 1907, 6)
Trusting in the Lord God of Israel.
(22LtMs, Lt 262, 1907, 7)
Lt 263, 1907
White, J. E. Refiled as Lt 410, 1907.
Lt 264, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California August 27, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
Last Sunday night I was unable to sleep during the whole night, but I am thankful that, notwithstanding my weakness, the amount of writing I have done since camp-meeting is making history.
(22LtMs, Lt 264, 1907, 1)
The work of Dr. Place has been and still is deceptive. He needs to be entirely transformed in character. I have sent a large package of writings to be presented to the camp-meeting in Denver. I hope that some hope and courage may come to Elder Wilcox. He has had a continual warfare with counterworking forces in Doctors Wade and Hill and several others. But the Lord will strengthen every soul who will work to His name’s glory. Be of good courage in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 264, 1907, 2)
With regard to the transactions of the Melrose Sanitarium, the Lord has interposed to place matters in the sanitarium where they could proceed. And the offer of Loma Linda, and my urgent invitation to Dr. Nicola and his wife, was in the order of God, that the word and impression should not go forth that after their service in Melrose they were sent adrift, and Dr. Paulson had to make place for them. I have done my duty. Elder Burden has done his duty in giving them an urgent invitation to come in as helpers in the line of physicians in the sanitarium. We have both done our duty. Now we have no reflections to cast on this point. We have not driven them off. They chose their own place, and we are sorry that they did not accept the situation offered them with some urgency, hoping that getting them away from the atmosphere they had been in, and being instructed by the opposite influence in words, in education, in prayer, they would, I felt sure, come to understand where the Spirit of the Lord was abiding. But they have chosen, and now we must do all possible to change the atmosphere of the sanitarium fully, and the Spirit of the Lord will surely come in.
(22LtMs, Lt 264, 1907, 3)
But what would you expect of a sanitarium where Dr. Kellogg would have, if it was granted him, his molding of it? I have some things I may present to you if I ever see you again. But the plans laid by Dr. K. miscarried. The Lord was in this. I am so glad we have a God who can and will work for His own name’s glory and disappoint the plans of the enemy.
(22LtMs, Lt 264, 1907, 4)
I hope to send you copies of some things I have sent to Los Angeles and Denver. I have acted my part; now we will trust all with the Lord who understands the situation.
(22LtMs, Lt 264, 1907, 5)
Let me tell you, if it had not been for the affliction of Dr. Nicola, there would have been very serious times in obtaining possession of the sanitarium. The Lord took this matter in hand and disappointed the enemy. I understand the matter perfectly, but can hardly express it. I see the Lord’s hand in every movement. And yet we were to offer Dr. Nicola and his wife a place as excellent in every way as Melrose, and we have done our duty; and now we will let the matter rest under the supervision of God. I see the Lord’s government in this matter, and yet I sincerely wish that Dr. Nicola had been inclined to accept the offer made.
(22LtMs, Lt 264, 1907, 6)
I will now close my epistle to you and hope that we may see you ere long. I feel that the Lord is in earnest with us, and our time to work is short. I must give messages right to the point. I am glad the Lord has helped me to prepare a mass of matter for these two important meetings, and I am now relieved of a great burden. It is better, far better, than my own presence. They have clear, straight, close, searching messages that should come into print, for the flock of God needs them in every place; and it is better than my presence, for I could speak of but few things. I wish that you might have them in Maine. The Lord grant that we may be enabled to arouse the people to the situation.
(22LtMs, Lt 264, 1907, 7)
Lt 265, 1907
White, W. C. St. Helena, California August 26, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 51-52. Dear Son W. C. White:
I have just read your letter to May, your wife. I am glad for these few lines. We do not expect you to write long letters, but a few lines is better than nothing. I have expected you would push on to Colorado, and have sent a large amount of matter to meet the emergency. I sent in a letter to Edson that I had sent letters to you abundantly (they must open the package, I think). I send a batch of precious matter to you to be read in the meetings you may have.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 1)
I have carried so great a load on my soul that I have not been able to sleep at all last night. I am pleading with the Lord to take things in His own hands. I shall do what I possibly can to guard the flock of God on the right hand and on the left. We must take a proper stand to draw the minds of the people away from human counsel and judgment and to fasten their souls to Jesus Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 2)
Night before last I could not sleep until twelve o’clock. Then I gave the people the warning that has been repeatedly given to me. There are some who would crowd down the very men the Lord is using with success. They are forbidden to look to men for their light, for the very men placed over men have not a rich, full experience themselves. Our light must come from God. The very best experience and education that can be given to those men who have figured to be eyesight and reason and judgment for other men—and are certainly in need of one to educate these very counselors—is to make sure work for their own souls, else they will be found wanting when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened. The harm that already has been done, we must pray and trust in God to make of none effect.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 3)
These words I find in writings published in Testimonies for the Church 7:176. The Lord has given these words: “His gifts are committed to men as individuals. Every man has been made a steward of sacred trusts: each is to discharge his trust according to the direction of the Giver; and by each an account of his stewardship must be rendered to God.” The Lord does not give the work and duty to any other man to order the one God has in hand.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 4)
“In all this, God is seeking to bring the human into association with the divine, that through this connection man may become transformed into the divine likeness. Then the principles of love and goodness will be a part of his nature. Satan, seeking to thwart this purpose, constantly works to encourage dependence upon man, to make men the slaves of men. When he thus succeeds in turning minds away from God, he insinuates his own principles of selfishness, hatred, and strife.”
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 5)
We are the Lord’s stewards. We are to look to our God. If our people would make a study of the testimonies!
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 6)
Here I fell asleep while writing, and I lay down and had a short nap. You do not tell us when we shall see you.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 7)
I have just found in copies all prepared most splendid matter of instruction. Dores is to prepare it for sending today, if possible.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 8)
I hope and pray that men may consider they are only men. Position does not qualify men to rule their brethren, or place on them the robe of Christ’s righteousness. Every man is to work out his own salvation with fear and with trembling. Christ has been ordained to be the head of all the working forces. His holy angels supervise the work in every department, for every disciple of Jesus Christ, and God has ordained that His work shall demonstrate the superiority of Christlike, heavenly principles over worldliness and every human agency. Every soul in all our institutions should realize that his words and his spirit are to be under the sanctifying grace of Jesus Christ, who has bought us with the price of His own blood. He wants not one to come short in being laborers together with God to unify the churches. Speak not one word that will lessen the importance of individual influence.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 9)
New churches are to be raised up. Lift up your heads, and see the fields all ripe for the harvest. Every human agency is to add his force in communication with the churches, and the last message of mercy to a fallen world is to go forth from sanctified lips to make plain and distinct the message that shall prepare souls for the heavenly garner.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 10)
Publishing centers must be very careful not to introduce cheap, common repetition of matter that disseminates no light. Missionaries in far-off lands are watching to obtain food, spiritual food, to nourish the soul. Missionaries in foreign fields want to have the truth in simple language. All our publishing houses were founded in self-sacrifice, and the same principles must be manifested in establishing new centers in other fields.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 11)
Let all dress plainly. Let all become missionaries in self-denial, for the end is very near now. And watch in your influence that not a word shall be spoken to grieve your accompanying angels. They have to watch over you constantly, else Satan shall take advantage. Not an institution is to become self-centered.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 12)
Many can do large good by handling Christ’s Object Lessons, and this will explain better than many sermons. When one institution becomes out of debt, then keep on your work in selling Ministry of Healing. Do not lay them aside, but use them; present them to whomsoever you can in the streets, in whatever places you can, in every institution, and to every individual. You receive to impart. Just as soon as one object is gained in successfully overcoming the debts and gaining a standing place for itself, there are other places.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 13)
I wish to present the Madison needs. Will our people rise up with a will and sell Ministry of Healing, that this sanitarium may extend its work to others places, and make it an object now to do that which ought to have been done long ago? There is no time or place where there is a greater necessity. The books are waiting as if crying out, Sell me. The people need the truth found within my covers.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 14)
The virtue in the books will bring the truth to many souls who will give time to this work. Most precious, simple, elevating truth is in these precious volumes. When writing these precious books, if I hesitated, the very word I wanted to express the idea was given me.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 15)
Will our young people and the older people now make Madison a specialty? Young and old, you can in every place use these precious books. They shall not lie unused. God calls for unselfish self-sacrifice to get these books before the people. It is the glory of the gospel to bring the sacred truths to hundreds and to thousands. The angel of God certainly helped in the preparation of these books. Now use every facility to get them in circulation, and let the people know it is to sustain children in school, to obtain an education to do missionary work.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 16)
Now Madison needs help. The school is doing a grand work. Who will help in this matter—men, women, younger members of the Lord’s family? This kind of helpful work will accomplish much if you will not fail or become discouraged. This is a work founded upon the principles of restoring the fallen race. This I ask, that those whose tuition I have paid in school pay me back their school bills by handling Christ’s Object Lessons. I want to be able to feel authorized to place children of all ages in the Madison school. Help me in this work. I have donated the book. Will you sell the book?
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 17)
The first thing is to work modestly and confidently in the name of the Lord. In this work you are learning how to approach the people. You testify that there is among God’s people that faith that works by love and purifies the soul from selfishness. You will be helping a school founded on self-denial and self-sacrifice. The law of God is a law of love to God and to man. God’s work is to be taken hold of to respond to God’s plans. And you will certainly obtain a rich experience, placing before the people an example of self-denial and self-sacrifice and bringing in resources for the advancement of the Lord’s work. The Lord would have every hand possible at work to put His people in possession of these two books, The Ministry of Healing and Christ’s Object Lessons. Let these books and the precious books on Christian education be circulated, for all three books need to come to the people. The book on education I want to be largely circulated, for I greatly need the means to invest in other branches of our work. These books are to be handled as a message to come to the world to prepare a people to stand amid the perils of the last days. I solicit all who have an interest in the truths for these last days to do a good work in canvassing for our books and papers.
(22LtMs, Lt 265, 1907, 18)
Lt 266, 1907
White, Emma St. Helena, California September 3, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 101-102. Mrs. Emma White My dear daughter Emma:
I am very desirous of hearing from you. Will you please write me soon, even if you can send only a few lines. It would please me very much to get a letter from you.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 1)
This morning I was able to rise at four o’clock and dress without disturbing any member of the family. After taking my cold bath, I sat down to write to you. I am able to continue my writing from early morning until evening. Then I put away my work. I am often surprised that my mind is so clear for the work of preparing articles. I am very thankful to my heavenly Father for this clearness of mind and that He gives me such precious thoughts. His Word is full of comfort and hope. Light, precious light is sown for the righteous, and truth for the upright in heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 2)
W. C. White is away from home. He has attended the Los Angeles camp-meeting. If we were both absent, our workers could not complete the writings we are preparing for publication. With my writing and reading these articles, I am kept diligently employed.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 3)
My confidence in God is unshaken, notwithstanding some are departing from the faith, and giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. My mind is clear and my heart is stayed upon God. I thank Him with heart and soul and voice this morning that He blesses me with His peace and grace. I can say with the psalmist, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] He is good, and greatly to be praised. Soon He will come to deliver His saints.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 4)
The time of trouble has already begun. We hear continually of riots and accidents, or murders and robberies. Human life is no longer safe unless under the protection of God. God’s servants must not be surprised that they meet with great difficulties and persecution at this time. In His day, the world’s Redeemer, the Son of God, was shamefully treated by the people He came to bless. He had to go from city to city to ensure His safety, and this persecution followed Him until His work on earth was accomplished.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 5)
I am so thankful that we have a faith that will stand the test of trial and opposition. As trouble in the world increases, the Lord’s children will have to suffer; but the Word of God affords comfort and encouragement for such a time. Read the first and second chapters of First Corinthians; there are precious assurances here for the child of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 6)
Paul is speaking to his brethren in the faith: “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; that in everything ye are enriched by Him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: so that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Corinthians 1:2-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 7)
We have some understanding of what this waiting means. In the messages given me to bear, we are constantly seeking to confirm the faith of our people. The testimony of the Spirit of God today harmonizes with that given through the apostle Paul: “God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord.” [Verse 9.] I want you to read this chapter carefully, for it has been a great comfort to me.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 8)
The apostle continues: “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” [Verse 10.] This we are trying to do. In our labors in different lines there is need of carefulness of speech, of watchfulness of each action, that through the grace of Christ the responsibilities that have been placed upon us may be borne in the spirit of Christ, and without any friction.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 9)
I will not write you a long letter now, but will write again when I have time. We would be pleased if you could come and visit us. I have a gentle horse, and you could ride out whenever you pleased. You know how we are situated, away from the main road with its noise and dust. If you will come, I will send the means to bring you here. I will await your answer with much interest.
(22LtMs, Lt 266, 1907, 10)
Lt 268, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California September 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder J. E. White
Boulder, Colorado My dear son Edson:
I have not heard from you for some time. I desire very much to hear of the meeting in Denver. I received a short letter from Willie telling of a remarkable meeting at Los Angeles, but no particulars have come to me regarding the Denver meeting. I sent a number of manuscripts to Denver in W. C. White’s name, supposing he would be at that meeting. I hope that someone read the contents at the meeting. If Elder Daniells were there, he would understand the situation.
(22LtMs, Lt 268, 1907, 1)
As I have heard nothing, I would be pleased to have you write me about the meeting. Tell me if the communications reached Denver, and if they were read. I trust that now this raid in Boulder will cease. Elder Wilcox has had a severe and trying time. The situation at Boulder has been plainly presented before me, and I understand the need there is that staunch men be appointed to stand by the side of Elder Wilcox. The Lord stands at the head of His work, and He will surely be a present help to His people. Tell Elder Wilcox that the Lord will save all who put their trust in Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 268, 1907, 2)
I have just written a letter to Emma. Among the unbelieving element in Battle Creek there has been much underhand work. Frank Belden and those connected with him have manifested a terrible spirit. I shall not attempt to write to you all that I might say about this, however. But I hope that it may not be necessary for Emma to live in a household, where there is such a strong and determined opposition as is to be found in Frank Belden. Before Emma went to Battle Creek, I gave my reasons for desiring her to come to my home. If she is still in need of treatment, I think it would be far better for her to be here, where she may be free from the unpleasant influences of Battle Creek, and near the St. Helena Sanitarium, where she can receive thorough treatment under the direction of Doctor Rand. I still extend to her the invitation to visit us. If necessary I would be willing to send her the money required for her fare, though I would have to draw it from the bank.
(22LtMs, Lt 268, 1907, 3)
W. C. White will stop at Mountain View on his way to St. Helena. There is to be a special meeting there on September 8, when the Pacific Press will hold its dedicatory service. I do not know how much this will include, but I desire to be there, and am expecting to go.
(22LtMs, Lt 268, 1907, 4)
I feel that I must get off somewhere for a change, but while W. C. White is absent I cannot leave home. I cannot always have my eyes on manuscript from morning till night. I fear for my eyesight if I continue to read so constantly. I pray that the Lord will strengthen my eyesight, or relieve me of this great burden. I am tired all the time, but I hope and pray and believe that there will be rest for the weary. Everything that can be done should be done to put my writings in the best shape in case I should fall at my post. I know not what is before me.
(22LtMs, Lt 268, 1907, 5)
We are expecting Sister Stewart to come to my help shortly. She is experienced in the work and can help us very much.
(22LtMs, Lt 268, 1907, 6)
I want to hear from you and to know how you are getting on with your work. Is your health improving? Hope, and pray, and believe, and the Lord will lead you into the light and will guide you with His counsel. We need every day to commit our helpless souls to God and to trust in Him. Hold fast to the promises. The Lord will sustain those who put their trust in Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 268, 1907, 7)
Lt 270, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California August 30, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 7BC 969; 2MR 40. + Elder J. E. White
Boulder, Colorado Dear Son Edson:
I have not yet heard any word from the Denver camp-meeting. Before W. C. White left home it was arranged that he should attend the Denver meeting at the close of the Los Angeles meeting. I have had a few words from him since the meeting in Southern California, saying that circumstances were such that he could not leave for Denver. He took several writings with him to read to the people at the camp-meeting in Los Angeles.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 1)
I learn from one and another that the meeting at Los Angeles was an important one. There certainly was need of a work to be done there and for the Spirit of the Lord to come in and take possession of hearts. We have reached a crisis in our work, and as a people we need to stay our hearts upon the living God.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 2)
There are many places where the truth is yet to be preached. I have been given special messages to bear to God’s people. At this time His servants are to seek wisdom of the true Counselor. The Lord will work for every soul who will seek Him with heart and mind and strength. We have done much to send help to foreign fields, but comparatively little has been done for the large cities of the southern field. God’s people need to do an earnest work in drawing nigh to Him and making their own hearts right. Then the grace of His Holy Spirit will rest upon them.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 3)
I have prayed that a thorough work might be done in Boulder and Denver. When the Holy Spirit is allowed to do its work on human hearts, self will be crucified, and Christ will give to His people the gift of His grace and a perfect understanding of their great need. When they make a full surrender of themselves to God, the work that He designs to see done for His people in Denver and Boulder will be accomplished.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 4)
Human judgment has been allowed to bear sway in Colorado, and this has been an offense to God. Men have not realized that their pride and self-sufficiency have stood directly in the way to make of none effect the testimonies that the Lord has given. They have exalted the human will above a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” Men of capability have perverted their talents to self-serving. They have allowed themselves to work out their own selfish plans so long that their influence has become a misleading one. The good they might have accomplished has been left undone, because the powers of evil have taken possession of mind and heart. Satan has worked through them to carry out his own evil purposes. The whole man has been used by the wily foe to dishonor God. God desires that those who have set their will in opposition to the will of God shall take themselves out of the way of His work. They need to seek God in earnest prayer for the forgiveness of their sins.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 5)
I cannot find words by which to express how greatly God has been dishonored. It rests now with those who have worked counter to the ways and will of God to make the crooked places straight. The Lord does not forsake His people; but He will not always bear with the perversity of men. He calls upon them to make a change in their characters, to part with their crooked ways, and humble their souls before Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 6)
O that they would awake to a sense of their peril, and putting away their wrongdoing, become all that God would have them be. When God gave His Son to the world, He made it possible for men and women to use every capability they possess to the glory of God. He gave to them the riches of His grace and a knowledge of His will. When men will empty themselves of their high opinions of self, and learn to walk in humility, leaning on God for guidance, God can work through them to fulfil His high purpose for the human family.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 7)
The message given to John the Baptist for the people of his day is one that our workers might study to advantage. “And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 8)
“Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore works worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father; for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees; every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 9)
“And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? He answered and said unto them, He that hath two coats let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 10)
“Then came publicans also to him to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 11)
“And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely, and be content with your wages.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 12)
“And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ or not; John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire; whose fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor; and will gather the wheat into the garner; but the chaff will He burn with fire unquenchable.” [Luke 3:3-17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 13)
There needs to be a purging of heart and mind and soul on the part of many who are working out Satan’s will while professing to have the faith of Christ. A work of reformation needs to be brought in. Wrong customs that have been practiced must change; the crooked paths must be made straight. The mountains and hills of self-esteem and pride must be brought low. The message comes, “Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.”“Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:8, 3.] The roughness in the character must be made smooth. When this work is done in the experience of God’s believing people, “All flesh shall see the salvation of God.” [Luke 3:6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 14)
God will not acknowledge as His workers men who place themselves in positions of authority. A decided change must take place in the lives of some before the Lord can own them as His physicians and ministers. When they are willing to part with their unrighteousness, and become meek and lowly in heart, the Lord will accept them as His workmen. By repentance and faith in Christ, they may become partakers of His salvation. He will refine them as silver and gold and make them vessels unto honor in His cause.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 15)
God is waiting to see revealed in these workers a faith that works by love and purifies the soul; for this alone will give them a fitness for the future immortal life. There is a great work to be accomplished, and there is little time in which to do it. Let us ever exalt the truth; it is too sacred to be perverted.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 16)
Missionary agencies are greatly needed in every branch of God’s work. Our institutions need converted, devoted men, who will make the Lord their dependence. God will reveal through such workers the power of His grace. His servants are to be distinguished from the world by the seal of the living God; their words and their works are to reveal that they are laborers together with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 17)
God can use the human agent just to the extent that he will be worked by the Holy Spirit. To men who accept positions of responsibility as presidents, ministers, physicians, or workers in any line, I am bidden to say: God will test every man who enters His service. He does not measure our ability by the standard of the world. He does not ask, Do they possess learning and eloquence? Have they ability to command and control and manage? He asks, Will they represent My character? Will they walk in humility, that I may teach them My way? The soul temple must not be defiled by any loose or unclean practice. Those whom I will acknowledge in the courts of heaven must be without spot and wrinkle.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 18)
The Lord will use humble men to do a great and good work. Through them He will represent to the world the ineffaceable characteristics of the divine nature.
(22LtMs, Lt 270, 1907, 19)
Lt 271, 1907
Knox, W. T. NP August 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder W. T. Knox Dear Brother:
I received your letter in regard to Elder Rice and his wife. I wrote them a few lines, but not because of any special light given me at that time regarding their case. Since then I have been shown that they should enter into no such terms with any man as you have laid out—that one hour is to cover all the exercises of the meetings. Did the Lord tell you to speak such word to Elder Rice? Nay, verily; He gave you no such authority.
(22LtMs, Lt 271, 1907, 1)
My brother, when you have not received any special light from the Lord concerning any step you propose to take, you need to move very carefully. You have not done this in the past, but have sought to mark out the duties of others, and especially those of Brother and Sister Rice.
(22LtMs, Lt 271, 1907, 2)
Last night the Lord opened many things before me. Among others, He showed me that the evangelistic labors of our workers are not to be prescribed, and that Elder Rice and his wife are not to be bound about in their work. They are to inquire of God in regard to their labors. They are to follow the directions of the Holy Spirit, and He is to tell them where they shall go.
(22LtMs, Lt 271, 1907, 3)
I cannot advise Elder Rice and his wife to confine their efforts to Alameda. If the Spirit of the Lord directs them to do so, they can bear their testimony in Alameda or in the Oakland church, or in any of the several openings that the Lord may make for them. God is able to move upon their minds, and to guide them with judgment, as He will work with all His workers who will listen for His voice. Truth will always bear away the victory.
(22LtMs, Lt 271, 1907, 4)
The pressure that has been brought to bear upon Elder Rice and his wife is out of harmony with the way of the Lord. They should be allowed to work with the same freedom as any other worker enjoys. They are not to be bound about by man’s restrictions. I lift my voice decidedly against any man seeking to be the supervisor of another’s conscience.
(22LtMs, Lt 271, 1907, 5)
God may give to Brother and Sister Rice words to speak in other places than Alameda. It is true that help is needed in Alameda; but it is also true that help is needed in other places as well. When the call comes to open the Scriptures to unbelievers, they should be allowed to answer the call; for they have proved that they are able to do this work. In responding to such appeals from unbelievers, they are fulfilling the command of Christ. Every capability and power that the human agent possesses should be given to the work of seeking to save that which is perishing. In San Francisco, in Oakland, in every place where they can gain entrance, the workers of God are to feel free to labor. “Cursed is he that doeth the work of God negligently.” [Jeremiah 48:10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 271, 1907, 6)
Lt 272, 1907
Wilcox, F. M. St. Helena, California September 4, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder F. M. Wilcox Dear Brother:
I am enclosing with this a letter to Edson White. If he is still in Colorado, please see that he gets it. If he is not there, I would be glad to know where he is. I have not heard from him for some time.
(22LtMs, Lt 272, 1907, 1)
I trust that the meeting at Denver was of a character to put to an end the unruly working of false tongues. I would be pleased if I could spend a little time with you in Boulder. God will give you grace, my brother, to withstand the attacks of Satan. I am praying that his efforts to hinder the work in Boulder have been effectually repulsed.
(22LtMs, Lt 272, 1907, 2)
The time of trouble is right upon us; we are told that this time is to approach as a thief in the night. But if our life is hid with Christ in God, we need have no fear. Be of good courage in the Lord. When you feel your weakness, and put your trust in God, He will be your strength, your frontguard and your rereward.
(22LtMs, Lt 272, 1907, 3)
Continue in prayer, my brother. This is our only means of bringing our troubles to Jesus. Let the Spirit of God teach you at all times what to do and what to say.
(22LtMs, Lt 272, 1907, 4)
Lt 274, 1907
Burden, J. A. St. Helena, California September 2, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 258-260. Elder J. A. Burden, Loma Linda, California:
I received your letter and read it with much interest. The work you speak of that has been done for the Women’s Christian Temperance Union is in harmony with the work that, before the Loma Linda property came into our hands, I was shown must be entered into. A grand work is to be done by our people for the W.C.T.U. The Lord has in that association precious souls, who will accept the truth and become one with our labors. These workers will be a great help to us in our efforts in temperance lines. And the education our people have had in Bible truth and in a knowledge of the requirements of the law of Jehovah they will impart to those who come in among us. Thus a union and sympathy will be created where in the past prejudice has existed.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 1)
We need the help that these women workers can give us; they need the help we can give them in a knowledge of the gospel Sabbath. By holding ourselves aloof from the workers in the W.C.T.U., our people have lost much; and the members of the W.C.T.U. have also been on losing ground. If every possible effort is now made to reach these people, prejudice will be removed, and souls will be reached whom our people have thought would never accept this present truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 2)
I have been instructed that no hindrance should be placed in the way of Sister Starr’s work for the W.C.T.U. While I was in Australia, Elder A. T. Jones, by an unwise course of action, nearly cut off all opportunity for us to work for this people. At that time I was shown that no obstacle should be placed in the way of those who are seeking to reach these temperance workers. In some matters they are far in advance of our leaders on the important question of temperance.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 3)
Give Sister Starr the right of way. Let no hand be stretched out to hinder her in her work. Give her an opportunity to bring this message before the temperance organization. Every possible ray of light that we can shed upon the W.C.T.U. should be given. If we had one hundred soundly converted workers from this body, the cause of present truth would be greatly helped. Many of our own laborers would be taught wherein they might come up on to higher ground, and our sisters would learn how they might exert a wider and more uplifting influence than they have in the past.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 4)
We need to have the temperance question revived among our own people. It would be a good thing if at our camp-meetings we should invite the members of the W.C.T.U. to take part in our exercises. This will help them to become acquainted with the reasons of our faith and will open the way for us to unite with them in temperance work. If we will do this, we will come to see that the temperance question means more than many of us have supposed. And we in turn can teach these workers many things. They will hear the truth, and many will be converted to the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 5)
In his labors, my husband, whenever he had opportunity, invited the workers in the temperance cause to his meeting and gave them an opportunity to speak. And when invitations were given us to attend their gatherings, we always responded. I have had some opportunity to see the great advantage to be gained by connecting with the W.C.T.U. workers, and I have been much surprised as I have seen the indifference of many of our leaders to this organization. I call on my brethren to awake. The Lord gave the best gift of heaven to the world, that He might win men back to their allegiance to Him. We should do all in our power to co-operate with heavenly agencies for the promulgation of truth and righteousness in the earth. We cannot do a better work than to unite, so far as we can do so without compromise, with the W.C.T.U. workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 6)
Years ago we regarded the spread of temperance principles as one of our most important duties. It should be so today. Our schools and sanitariums are to reveal the power of the grace of Christ to transform the life. They should be important factors in the temperance cause.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 7)
In choosing men and women for His service, God does not measure them according to the standard of the world. He asks, “Do they walk in such humility that I can teach them My way? Can I put My words in their lips and trust them to speak those words? Will they represent Me in meekness and lowliness of heart? Will they receive My Spirit, learn My ways, and wear My yoke? All who truly follow Me will represent in their characters the immortal principles of truth.”
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 8)
God’s commandment-keeping people are to stand distinguished from the world because He has placed His seal upon them. Christ has healing power for every soul. He will manifest in His believing ones His own character and cover them with the robe of His righteousness.
(22LtMs, Lt 274, 1907, 9)
Lt 276, 1907
Burden, J. A. NP September 5, 1907 [typed] This letter is published in entirety in PC 288-290. Elder J. A. Burden
Loma Linda, California Dear Brother Burden:
I have read with much interest your letter regarding the camp-meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 1)
I have a message to bear to some who hold positions of responsibility in the Southern California Conference. They have lost from their experience that true fervor which the presence of the Holy Spirit gives, and which would teach them to subdue self and walk humbly in the way of Christ. The responsible worker who will not become a humble follower of Christ will do great harm to the cause of God by molding and fashioning the experience of the conference to a common, cheap standard. The sacred work that we handle will never, if performed in a spirit of consecration, cheapen the experience of a single soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 2)
That man is unfit to be the president of a conference or a leader among God’s people who has not broad ideas and views. It is the privilege and duty of those who bear responsibilities in the cause to become learners in Christ’s school. The professed follower of Christ must not follow the dictates of his own will; his mind must be trained to think Christ’s thoughts and enlightened to comprehend the will and way of God. Such a believer will be a learner of Christ’s methods of work.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 3)
A mistake was made in the methods that were adopted to clear the schools in California from debt. The book Christ’s Object Lessons was given to relieve the indebtedness of our schools. But this plan has not been presented in our schools as it should have been; the students and teachers have not been educated to take hold of this book and push its sale for the benefit of the educational work. The plan that has been followed of calling on our people to support these schools must not be continued; for this is giving to our teachers and students, and to our people in general, a wrong education. They must not be so instructed that they will forget the needs of other fields outside their own.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 4)
In the cities of Riverside, Redlands, and San Bernardino, a mission field is open to us that we have as yet only touched with the tips of our fingers. A good work has been done there as far as our workers have had encouragement to do it; but there is need of means to carry the work successfully. It was God’s purpose that by the sale of Ministry of Healing and Christ’s Object Lessons the necessary means would be raised for the work of our sanitariums and schools, and thus our people be left free to donate of their means for the opening of the work in new fields. If our people had engaged in the sale of these books as God purposed they should, we would now have the means to carry the work in the way the Lord designed.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 5)
Wherever the work of selling Christ’s Object Lessons has been taken hold of in earnest, the book has had a good circulation. And the lessons that have been learned by those who have engaged in this work have well repaid their efforts. Our people should all be encouraged to take a part in this missionary effort. Light has been given me that in every possible way instruction should be given to our people in the best methods of presenting this book to the people. We have been instructed that at our large gatherings workers should be present who will teach our people how to sow the seeds of truth. This means more than instruction in how to sell the Signs of the Times and other periodicals. It includes such books as Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing. These are books which contain precious truths, and from which the reader can draw lessons of highest value.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 6)
At your recent camp-meeting was any one appointed to present the interests of this line of work to our people? If this was not done, you lost a precious opportunity of placing large blessings within the reach of the people, and an opportunity of raising means for the relief of our institutions. My brother, let us encourage our people to take up this work without further delay. Let those who have had experience in the sale of health foods interest themselves in the sale of Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing; for here is food unto eternal life. Los Angeles has been presented to me as a very fruitful field for the sale of these books. I know that every household in the land would be benefited by their presence in the home.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 7)
Those who bear responsibilities in our sanitariums and schools should act wisely in this matter, encouraging all by this means to gather the money required to meet the expenses of the different institutions. We have need of workers in Southern California who have clear spiritual eyesight, men who will weigh matters wisely and can see afar off. If our workers were more fully consecrated to the cause of God, a much more effective work would be done.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 8)
God’s Spirit is grieved because His people are so slow to understand that which the Lord requires of them. Our workers should present these books to our people at our large and small gatherings and call for volunteers who will engage in the sale of them. When this work is entered into with the earnestness which the times in which we live demand, the indebtedness that now rests upon our schools and sanitariums will be wiped out, and the people who are now being called on to give of their means to support these institutions will be free to donate their offerings to missionary work in other needy places.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 9)
Great good will result by bringing these books before the women of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. Invite these workers to your meetings, and give them an opportunity to become acquainted with our people. Place these books in their hands, and tell them the story of their gift to the cause and its object. Explain how by the sale of Ministry of Healing patients will be brought to the sanitarium for healing who could never get there unaided, and how through this means also sanitariums will be established in places where they are needed. If our sanitariums are managed wisely by men and women who have the fear of God before them, the workers in the temperance cause will not be slow to see the advantage of this branch of the work. If you will in earnestness and faith work out the plan that God has laid down, angels of God will attend your steps, and the blessing of heaven will be upon your efforts.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 10)
I send you these lines because I see that there is need of a deeper intuition, a wider perception on the part of our sanitarium and educational workers if they would get all the benefits that God intends shall come to them through these books. I ask you, Brother Burden, to read these words to our people, that they may learn to show the wisdom of a sound mind. The Lord gave me His Holy Spirit to enable me to write the manuscript for this book; the Review and Herald and the Press donated the labor required to prepare it for the public; and God now calls upon our people, men and women and youth, to make the most of this gift to His cause. Let the students, under wise directors, be set to work to sell the books, and let all understand why they are engaged in this missionary enterprise. The blessing and approval of God will rest upon those who make the effort.
(22LtMs, Lt 276, 1907, 11)
Lt 278, 1907
Starr, Lillis Wood St. Helena, California September 5, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in LLM 262-264. + Dr. Lillis Wood-Starr
Loma Linda, California Dear Sister Starr:
Be of good courage in the Lord. I pray that you will look constantly to God and trust fully in Him. He will be your helper in every emergency.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 1)
I am deeply interested in the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. It is the Lord’s pleasure that you should feel free to act in consort with them. It is by uniting with them in their labors that we shall be able to bring to these people an understanding of the claims of the fourth commandment. I believe there are many honest souls in this organization, who, when they are convinced of the claims of the Bible Sabbath, will obey the dictates of conscience.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 2)
In our earlier labors in the message, our camp-meetings were held in out-of-the way places. Of late years a change has been brought about in this respect; and for this I am grateful. In our labors together, my husband and I always felt that it was our duty to demonstrate in every place where we held meetings that we were fully in harmony with the workers in the temperance cause. We always laid this question before the people in plain lines. Invitations would come to us to speak in different places on the temperance question, and I always accepted these invitations if it was possible. This has been my experience not only in this country, but in Europe and Australia, and other places where I have labored.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 3)
I am sorry that there has not been a more lively interest among our people of late years to magnify this branch of the Lord’s work. We cannot afford to lose one opportunity to unite with the temperance work in any place. Although the cause of temperance in foreign countries does not always advance as rapidly as we could wish, yet in some places decided success has attended the efforts of those who engaged in it. In Europe we found the people sound on this question. On one occasion, when I accepted an invitation to speak to a large audience on the subject of temperance, the people did me the honor of draping above the pulpit the American flag. My words were received with the deepest attention, and at the close of my talk a hearty vote of thanks was accorded me. I have never, in all my work on this question, had to accept one word of disrespect.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 4)
We need at this time to show a decided interest in the workers of the W.C.T.U. None who claim to have a part in the work of God should lose interest in the grand object of this organization in temperance lines. I am not afraid that you will lose your interest or backslide from the truth because you interest yourself in this people who have taken such a noble stand for the temperance question; and I shall urge our people, and those not of our faith, to help us in carrying forward the work of Christian temperance.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 5)
I am being aroused anew on this subject. We have a work to do along this line besides that of speaking in public. We must present our principles in pamphlets and in our papers. We must use every possible means of arousing our people to their duty to get into connection with those who know not the truth. The success we have had in missionary work has been fully proportionate to the self-denying, self-sacrificing efforts we have made. The Lord alone knows how much we might have accomplished if as a people we had humbled ourselves before Him and proclaimed the temperance truth in clear, straight lines. A large work of seed-sowing is yet to be done. The light of truth has flashed upon many minds who have not yet fully taken their stand, and these souls are waiting to see what next. The Lord’s workers are to draw nigh to Him, and He will give them keener perceptions and broader views of His purpose and of their individual duty.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 6)
Look not to human agencies to learn your duty. Seek the Lord to know His will, and He will give you light. He is the One who can truly estimate character. Christ bids His workers, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering, for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think he shall receive anything of the Lord.” [James 1:5-7.] God bids us carry our difficulties and perplexities to Him. He presents for the acceptance of the believing soul the virtues of Christ’s character. A way is opened for him to receive the truth as it is in Jesus, and to have that faith which works by love and purifies the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 7)
It is seldom that the man who thinks he can be experience for another has a safe experience for himself; for he fails of forming a correct estimate of the character he should develop. Just as soon as a man who is placed in a responsible position supposes that he is to define the duty of his fellow men, and that the workers must obey his word without question, he proves that he is not worthy of his office. Such a man does not understand his own heart. We had far better have in our conference humble men whom God can accept and teach His way. God has given to every man his work, and this responsibility will not be taken from any soul; neither will it be given to another to tell him what that work is.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 8)
We are living in an age when God’s servants need to examine earnestly their own hearts, to see where they stand. Men in responsible positions would change their ideas of self if they would faithfully look into God’s great looking glass and examine their hearts by the light of the Word. They would learn what manner of men they are; they would see themselves as Christ sees them, and how totally unable to do Christ’s work as guide and judge.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 9)
When men would take upon themselves the responsibility of dictating to you, telling you to seek their advice and counsel, tell them that you have complied with the Lord’s direction to ask Him for wisdom, and that peace and rest have come to your soul in relying upon His promise. There are many who take the name of Christ and wear His sign who are not truly His. How then shall we know who are His? We shall know them because they point men to Christ. The man who has encouraged another to follow erring, human judgment has misled one who needed to be guided in safe paths. The worker who is truly humble in heart will never seek to control the actions and will of his fellow worker. To those who come to ask his counsel he will say, Do not seek of me to learn your duty; I cannot add this responsibility to my other burdens. You have an unerring Counselor upon whom you can always depend. Seek the Lord in earnest prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 10)
Sister Starr, look to Jesus, and make Him your Counselor. Go forward in faith with the work the Lord has pointed out to you. If wisely labored for, many of these women who have taken such a noble stand for the cause of temperance will go still further and will yield themselves to obedience to the commandments of God. A true missionary spirit will lead our workers to welcome these women to our meetings, that they may hear the truth for this time.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 11)
We need to put away our narrowness of vision. We need to search the Scriptures, studying the works of Christ in His efforts to reach every class of people. Again and again Christ was charged with receiving sinners and eating with them. But He said, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:17.] This is the answer we may give to those who would criticize our works because they cannot reason from cause to effect.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 12)
Be encouraged to continue your work for the W.C.T.U. Unite with them in their good work as far as you can do so without compromising any principle of truth. Lead them to see that there is more light for them in the Word of God. God has shown you that it is your privilege to unite with these workers, that you may give them a more intelligent understanding of the principles of His Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 278, 1907, 13)
Lt 280, 1907
Burder, J.A. Refiled as Lt 349, 1906.
Lt 282, 1907
Bree, Maggie Hare St. Helena, California September 4, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Mrs. Harold Bree
Whangarata, Auckland, N.Z. My dear Maggie:
This morning I cannot sleep after two o’clock, so I have arisen to write to you. I was very pleased to receive your letter and am so thankful that the great Healer has restored your eyesight.
(22LtMs, Lt 282, 1907, 1)
I wish you could be here to connect with Minnie in my work. I need the help that you both can give me. Dores is helping on one of my books, and all the workers are doing their best; but you were with me so long that I miss you much. If at any time you and your husband should decide to come to America, I would be glad to have you connect again with my work.
(22LtMs, Lt 282, 1907, 2)
W. C. White has been attending the camp-meeting in Los Angeles. This was the largest camp-meeting ever held in Southern California, and a wonderfully interesting one. A work is being done in Los Angeles that is bringing our people in touch with the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. Some of our workers are becoming acquainted with these women and are uniting with them in temperance work. Dr. Lillas Wood Starr is having a wonderful influence with them. I believe that if our workers will labor harmoniously with the women of the W.C.T.U., a great victory for the truth will be gained. Members of the W.C.T.U. were present at the Los Angeles camp-meeting and were pleased with the truth they heard. We hope that many from this organization will be converted to the truth. And this will be, if our people will work for them with faith and prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 282, 1907, 3)
We have a message to bear to sinners concerning the riches of the grace of Christ and the fulness of the Spirit’s power. We have direct appeals to make to the unconverted. When our workers, instead of hovering about the churches, will go forth to seek and save the lost, they will be workers together with Christ. When the question was asked the disciples, “Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?” the Saviour replied, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:11; Mark 2:17.] This is the work the Saviour calls us to do. The world was never in greater need of personal effort being put forth for the recovery of the lost than it is today. If one tenth of the effort that has been given to those who already know the truth had been put forth for those who are ignorant of the plan of salvation, a great work would be accomplished that still remains undone. The Lord is calling His ministers to search for the lost sheep and to encourage every church member to put forth self-sacrificing efforts for the salvation of sinners.
(22LtMs, Lt 282, 1907, 4)
We need to put on the whole armor of God, that we may be able to stand in the evil day. We should bear in mind that the experience of the children of Israel will be the experience of God’s people in these closing days of earth’s history. We will have to fight constantly against the temptation to become careless and indifferent. Satan is determined to deceive if possible the very elect. Let us be obedient to every requirement of God. If we stand in the light, and work with God’s glory in view, we will be protected from the assaults of the enemy.
(22LtMs, Lt 282, 1907, 5)
Brother and Sister King are no longer with us, as you no doubt know. His health was such that we thought it best that he should be with his children. His health has improved, and he and his wife are now working at the sanitarium. For some time after they left, we were much perplexed to know who to get to do the work of the house. We have now secured Brother and Sister Mason. Brother Mason is my bookkeeper. Neither is very robust, but we enjoy having them in our family, and Mrs. Mason is an excellent cook.
(22LtMs, Lt 282, 1907, 6)
I am sending you a copy of a letter just received from Brother Haskell, telling of the work of Brother and Sister Burgess in India. Also a letter from Brother Burden, telling of the meeting at Los Angeles and the work at Loma Linda.
(22LtMs, Lt 282, 1907, 7)
Lt 284, 1907
White, Emma St. Helena, California September 16, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 62-63; 6Bio 136. Mrs. J. E. White
Edgefield, Tennessee My dear daughter Emma:
I was pleased to receive your letter. I am not strong; neither am I sick, nor an invalid. My pen is in my hand as usual this morning. I could not sleep after three o’clock. I have always dreaded the thought that as I advanced in years I might not be able to use the limbs that have been injured; but I can go up and down stairs quite readily. I try to rest my mind for one or two hours each day by riding out in the fresh air. I have an easy carriage and would be pleased if I could have your company in my daily rides.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 1)
It is not quite daylight. I have just been broken off in my writing to say Goodbye to Miss Peck, who is leaving us to engage in school work at College View. She is accompanied by Brother James’ two eldest children—Stanley, a strong young man, and his sister Winifred. Both are intelligent young persons, and we are all pleased that they can go with Miss Peck. Both are church members and have attended the church school here.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 2)
For a short time Winifred did my housework, for which I paid her five dollars a week. She had been working in the food factory before this. We found her an intelligent housekeeper and able to do her work without having to be told what she must do. Stanley has worked on the farm with his father and has become a good worker in that line.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 3)
Brother and Sister James will miss their children very much; but it was thought such an excellent opportunity for them to go under Sister Peck’s care, that they were willing to have them leave. Miss Peck was the church school teacher here when the school was first started. Besides doing this work she has kept my books. The past year she has been making books for our church schools.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 4)
Brother and Sister James have an excellent family. The children are eleven in number, and as soon as they can walk, they are taught to be helpful about the home. Religious interests are always made first. I would not be willing to exchange my farmer for any other person that I know of. I could not have a better helper than Brother James. When he first came here, he devoted his Sabbaths to holding meetings with unbelievers; he was always welcomed, for he explains the Scriptures in a clear and acceptable way. Now he finds that he must spend more time with his growing family.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 5)
Since that time our farm has become an important item. Brother James planted many loganberry vines; and when the fruit is ripe, he sells it. This year he has sold more than one hundred dollars’ worth of fruit. When he came, the orchard was run down and had very little valuable fruit on it. He went to work and grafted our apple trees, and I wish you could see some of the apples we have had from our orchard this year. Some of them are larger than the Northern Spy. They are much like the Northern Spy in form, but I think I never looked upon such perfection, both of form and color. I ate one and was delighted with its flavor. I wish I could send you some, but I am afraid they will not bear transportation. The [Bell Flowers] come next in my estimation. These trees also, it was thought, would have to be grafted or uprooted. We preferred to graft.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 6)
We have not had such a good showing of delicious corn as we had last year. Last year we had enough to supply our neighbors. But although the supply has been limited, we have all enjoyed it while it lasted.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 7)
Next come the grapes, which we are now enjoying. They are delicious. We will make no wine, for we find this does not pay, and we have not a large crop.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 8)
A year ago last spring, Brother James bought two horses for farm work. Horses were hard to obtain, and we were forced to purchase. I have already been offered five hundred for these greys. We have now two beautiful colts about three months old, and the grey mares are in excellent condition.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 9)
We are expecting that the Sisters Steward will arrive today. We drove twice to the station for them yesterday, but were disappointed; they did not come. The daughter, Miss Steward, will become one of my workers. We miss Maggie very much; for we have a large amount of bookmaking that ought to be done at once.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 10)
We have an excellent couple in the home, Brother and Sister Mason. Brother Mason is my bookkeeper, and Sister Mason is matron. She is not robust, but her husband helps her in the house in many ways. No unpleasant word is spoken, and this is as it should be among those who are preparing to unite with the heavenly family in the city of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 11)
I have written these lines while my lamp is burning dimly. I am very grateful to my heavenly Father for every blessing. I allow no complaints to pass my lips.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 12)
I have now as workers Sister Steward, Brother Crisler, Dores Robinson, Minnie Hawkins, and Helen Graham. Wilfred and Mabel Workman are now in Washington, D.C. Wilfred wished to have the experience he could gain by working with a superior builder. He also desires to get some further training for the work. When the school building at Washington is finished, all the building work will be completed. I wish you could see the place. It is five miles from Washington City. I think Frank Belden has seen it. The printing office and sanitarium are now crowded together, but both have the space they need. The Lord has worked in our behalf in enabling us to secure a choice location from which the light of truth may go forth in clear, bright rays.
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 13)
O that our people would realize that the end of all things is at hand. My work is to reach those who have never heard the truth with the message, “Come, for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 284, 1907, 14)
Lt 286, 1907
Wessels, Brother and Sister [J. J.] St. Helena, California September 17, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mr. J. J. Wessels
Paradise Valley Sanitarium
National City, California Dear Brother and Sister Wessels:
I have a letter written to you, but cannot find it; so will write again. I want to say to you, Make no hasty moves, and do not become discouraged. There will be a change soon. It may not be best to place the Paradise Valley property in the conference control. This matter will be decided soon. Do not waver, nor become discouraged.
(22LtMs, Lt 286, 1907, 1)
It may be best to have one sanitarium stand as the Paradise Valley stands. In the name of the Lord we will prevail, if it is His will. We have been under great pressure, but this will not last always. I say to you, Stand fast. The Paradise Valley Sanitarium will come out all right. Cling to the sanitarium, and wait on the Lord. There will be a trial of faith, but light will break forth. Let us pray and believe.
(22LtMs, Lt 286, 1907, 2)
I may be at Paradise Valley within a short time. Do not depend upon the advise of human agencies, but cling to the mighty One. He will be your efficiency. Pray, pray. Believe that Christ is a very present help in every time of need. Trust wholly in the Lord. Lean upon His power. I hope you have a staff of workers who will not become easily discouraged.
(22LtMs, Lt 286, 1907, 3)
I have had much to write in reference to the Boulder Sanitarium. I have still more to present to the workers there. A rival sanitarium was built up in Boulder within a short distance of the original institution. One was working on right lines, the other on wrong lines. In the second institution, meat eating was indulged in, and entertainments were held that should not have been. Light came to Dr. Place, but he would not receive the light. He continued to work on a worldly policy and kept up a continual effort to carry things according to his ideas. He was once a Christian, but he has not maintained his religious experience. He determined to obtain possession of the original sanitarium; but I said, No, no. The original sanitarium must not be given up.
(22LtMs, Lt 286, 1907, 4)
Brother Wilcox has had a time of trial, but he has stood faithfully at his post. Dr. Place had a brother, a minister, who was appointed to work in Boston and the surrounding cities; but he took pity on his brother and went away from the work, that God had given him to do, to help his brother. As a result of their combined opposition to the first sanitarium, Elder Wilcox had a tremendous battle to fight. Again and again the Lord has sent light regarding this matter to be given to the whole conference. This was given the third time at the last camp-meeting at Denver, and we trust that this will end the controversy.
(22LtMs, Lt 286, 1907, 5)
You can see, Brother Wessels, that you are not the only worker who has to meet difficulties. If the enemy can foil the Lord’s plans by leading men to take the wrong side, he will do it. He has done all in his power to weaken the Boulder Sanitarium, but the Lord has given the workers there wisdom and victory. While the rival sanitarium has had but a small patronage, the first institution, although having so much to contend with, has been blessed with many patients and has accomplished a good work.
(22LtMs, Lt 286, 1907, 6)
God will work in your behalf, giving you an experience that will be invaluable, if you will put your trust in Him. Do not fail nor become discouraged. The sanitarium at Paradise Valley was established on right lines, and the Lord has a future for it. Let not your faith fail, nor your hands weaken. Hold fast. Plow your way through in the name of the Lord, and victory will surely come.
(22LtMs, Lt 286, 1907, 7)
Lt 288, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma St. Helena, California September 23, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder J. E. White
Edgefield, Tennessee Dear Children Edson and Emma:
I have read your letter which speaks of your disappointment after conversing with Brother Ford. I am sorry that you were unsuccessful in obtaining the favors you desired, but I am not surprised. Brother Ford reveals unfavorable traits of character.
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 1)
Commit your way to the Lord, Edson, and He will be your Helper. Your only hope must be in Him; He will never disappoint you. We all need to have the cleansing blood of Christ applied to our hearts. We need to live by faith and not by sight.
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 2)
“Let not your heart be troubled,” Christ says, “ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 3)
That which is of greatest importance for us to know is that we are right with God. If we put our trust in the Lord, surrendering our will wholly to His will, He will work out our salvation. He will be our sanctification and righteousness, our frontguard and our rearward. There is comfort for us in the words, “Verily I say unto you, He that believeth in Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go to the Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye ask anything in My name, I will do it.” [Verses 12-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 4)
“If ye love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father; and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not; neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world seeth Me no more; but ye see Me by the eye of faith: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in the Father and ye in Me, and I in you. He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself unto him.
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 5)
“Judas saith unto Him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that Thou wilt manifest Thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words; and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him. He that loveth Me not, keepeth not My sayings; and the word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father’s which sent Me.
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 6)
“These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you; but the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name; He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 7)
“Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved Me, ye would rejoice because I said I go unto the Father; for My Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that when it is come to pass ye might believe. Hereafter I will not talk much with you; for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me. But that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave Me commandment, even so I do.” [Verses 15-31.]
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 8)
This is Christ’s instruction to every church, to every printing establishment, to every sanitarium and every school; and I am instructed to present them to you. I thought to write to all, for these words are addressed to all who claim to be Christians, but concluded to let this wonderful discourse speak to you. Let it make its impression on your heart. The words of Christ recorded in the 15th, 16th, and 17th chapters of John are needed by all. In every home they are to be presented as a message from God, telling how we may come into possession of the grace of Christ. If we refuse to comply with the conditions He lays down, we will be counted unworthy to have a place with His people when Christ comes in His glory. Our unworthiness will then be made to appear; for we shall be unable to look upon His face.
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 9)
The teachers of the truth need to accept the messages God sends as coming to them. These words of Christ should lead them to humble their hearts before God and repent of their wrongs. If they remain as they now are, many will be unready to meet Christ when He comes and will not enter in through the gates into the city of God. A great work is to be done for those who have long known the truth before they can give the message in all its fulness to those who are dead in trespasses and sins. Selfishness and envy are being cherished in the hearts of some who hold important positions of trust. Only when these men cleanse the soul temple from its defilement, and humble the soul before God, can He use them to carry on His work in right lines.
(22LtMs, Lt 288, 1907, 10)
Lt 289, 1907
Butler, G. I. and co-laborers in the Master’s vineyard St. Helena, California September 10, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 73-75. To Elder Butler and his co-laborers in the Master’s vineyard Dear Brethren:
I have been writing for our papers on the needs of the southern field. This a living subject with me. I hope that our people will not stop to question about everything that does not exactly meet their ideas before giving to the work that needs their help so much. I have tried to bring before our people the needs of the training school at Huntsville. This school should have special advantages; and our people should understand that liberal gifts made to this enterprise will be money well invested.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 1)
At the Huntsville school a thorough work is to be done in training men to cultivate the soil and to grow fruits and vegetables. Let no one despise this work. Agriculture is the ABC of industrial education. Let the erection of the buildings for the school and the sanitarium be an education to the students. Help the teachers to understand that their perceptions must be clear, their actions in harmony with the truth; for it is only when they stand in right relation to God that they will be able to work out His plan for themselves and for the souls with whom, as instructors, they are brought in contact.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 2)
Let us encourage all Seventh-day Adventists to have a deep interest in the work that is being done at Huntsville for the education of men and women to be laborers among the colored people. The preparations for a sanitarium for these people should go forward at Huntsville without delay. If we will move forward with faith in God, He will fulfil His word to us. We have no time to lose; for wickedness in the cities is reaching a terrible pass. The night is coming in which no man can work. Let us not grudge to the colored people a well-equipped sanitarium in connection with the Huntsville school. The building should not be restricted. It should be made roomy enough to accommodate with comfort those who shall come to it.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 3)
“Ye are laborers together with God,” the apostle Paul declares. [1 Corinthians 3:9.] We are a part of God’s great plan, bound up with Christ in God. The greatness of our work is to be measured by the power of the grace of Christ to enable us to perform it. We are to be the means of concentrating the light of heaven upon souls; we should therefore pray earnestly that the bright beams of the Sun of righteousness may shine forth. By faith we are to present Christ as a personal Saviour; then Christ will prepare the mind and heart to receive the truth as it is in Jesus.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 4)
The first and great commandment is, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 5)
The gospel of Christ embraces the world. Christ purchased the human race at a price that was infinite. The ransom embraced every nationality, every color. We should think of this when we consider the colored people in our own land who are so greatly in need of our help. These men and women should not receive the impression that because of the color of their skin they are excluded from the blessings of the gospel. The white people are under obligation to God, by the innumerable favors they have received, to take an interest in those who have not been so highly favored.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 6)
Let those who have known of the faithfulness of the laborers, and of the progress of the work in the southern states, testify to all our people of what they have seen and heard. I am satisfied that those who are carrying the burden of the work at Huntsville are doing their best to carry on the work of education for the colored people there acceptably, and to provide increased facilities. The white teachers who are acting a part in the school should be encouraged. The colored youth are there to be educated to labor for their own people as teachers, and nurses, and Bible workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 7)
Our people everywhere have given freely of their means to establish in Nashville a sanitarium for the white people; let them now be generous in their offerings that a sanitarium may be established at Huntsville for the colored people. If our charities to the colored race were as large and as numerous as they have been to the white people, we would call forth their gratitude and love.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 8)
My brethren, I entreat you not to let the work for the colored people be longer neglected. Meetinghouses, simple, but convenient, should be built for them, where they can come together to study the Word of God. God gave to you the greatest gift that Heaven could bestow, “Freely ye have received, freely give.” [Matthew 10:8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 9)
Let our ministers say to the people, Our time in which to work is short. You who have land that you can dispose of, use it to advance the cause of truth. Make it possible to secure places from which the work for the colored people can be carried on. As the Lord’s stewards, we are responsible for the welfare of the needy.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 10)
Present to our brethren for their study the record of the liberality of certain churches in Macedonia. Let the Word of God speak to them in this record, teaching them the spirit of benevolence that should mark their offerings and the blessings that will redound to those who manifest a spirit of liberality.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 11)
The apostle says, “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; how that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; praying us with much entreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so also he would finish in you the same grace also. Therefore as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 12)
“I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich. And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who having begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also and of that which ye have. If there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: as it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack. But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you. And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches.... And we have sent with them our brother whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, upon the great confidence I have in you.... Wherefore show ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boastings on your behalf.” [2 Corinthians 8:1-18, 22, 24.]
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 13)
The church is still the bearer of light to the world. I cannot say, as did the apostle Paul, “I speak not by commandment.” [Verse 8.] I do speak by express command. We are expected to call into working exercise the talents entrusted to us for the advancement of the knowledge of truth. The needs of the work, and the motives that should prompt our gifts, should be presented to believers and urgent calls made upon our churches. God has a systematic plan for our benevolences, and those who have a true missionary spirit will respond willingly to His calls.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 14)
There are some who do not comprehend the needs of the cause because their senses are dulled by selfish practices. These should be labored for, that the Holy Spirit may touch their hearts and break the spell of selfishness and covetousness that is upon them. Church members would do well to come together to consider the needless ways in which they expend their means in the light of the missionary calls that are coming to us from all parts of the world. Viewing their indulgence from the standpoint of the world’s great need, they will learn to deny self, that God’s kingdom may be advanced.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 15)
The southern field is in need of humble, God-fearing workers. It is in need of means. Who will rally our people at this time, encouraging them to give all they possibly can for this work. God will be pleased to have not only our own people, but whosoever will make liberal offerings. Who will teach our brethren to measure their gifts by the spirit of benevolence that led the Father to give His only begotten Son to make us the recipients of eternal blessings? When we allow the spirit of Christ to guide us in giving, God’s blessing will go with our gifts; and wisdom will be given to those who have the responsibility of the disbursement of means, that the best appropriation of the funds may be made.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 16)
The people of the South must be helped not only in a few places, but in many places where help is needed. Brethren, let us be true missionaries. Let us open our hearts to the needs of the colored people, realizing the responsibility that rests upon us to impart of the blessings God has given us. In the day of final reckoning, He who has entrusted us with His goods will demand His own with usury.
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 17)
The Lord calls us His almoners. Let us pray earnestly that God will give us His grace and His Spirit to enable us to deny ourselves of the many worthless things—the story magazines and the holiday pleasure and the many other things for which we now spend our means. The Son of God gave His precious life that He might make us partakers of the divine nature. Shall we not try to give up something for His dear sake? When we will do this from the heart, we will understand the meaning of the words of Christ, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 289, 1907, 18)
Lt 290, 1907
Reaser, G. W. and ministers in Southern California St. Helena, California August 29, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 412-413. + To Elder George W. Reaser and the ministers in Southern California Dear Brother Reaser:
The Lord has revealed to me that in your work as president of the Southern California Conference, you are in danger of embracing too much responsibility. Some time ago the Lord showed me that if you were placed in office, you would attempt to rule in every branch of the work, but that this was not to be permitted, because you have not the judgment to deal with all lines of work, and because God has chosen especially qualified workers for certain lines of His work.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 1)
Because of a wrong comprehension of the duties of your office, the work in your field has become sadly confused in the past two years. You have accepted responsibilities that should not have been placed upon you. Because you were president of the conference, you considered yourself to be in a certain sense the manager of the work of the Loma Linda Sanitarium, and that it was your duty to see that matters there were conducted according to your ideas. I am bidden to say to you that you are not qualified to take the control of the sanitarium work.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 2)
Elder Burden has been given this work, and he has good helpers and advisers in the workers who are associated with him. The Lord appointed Elder Burden to the position he occupies, and he is to bear his responsibilities in that position without interference. He is fully capable of doing the work that has been given him to do. The Lord has not told you to watch and criticize and interfere with his work. He bids you, my brother, to stand out of the way. Elder Burden has proved in the past that he can do his work acceptably. He is to stand in his lot and place, exercising his God-given right to ask wisdom of Him who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 3)
It is a mistake for a conference to select as president one who considers that his office places unlimited power in his hands. The Lord has instructed me to tell you that you do not know when to use authority, and when to refrain from using it unwisely. You have much to learn before you can do the work of a conference president intelligently. You are to bear in mind that in the cause of God there is a chief Director, whose power and wisdom is above that of human minds.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 4)
God will have nothing to do with the methods of working where finite men are allowed to bear rule over their fellow men. He calls for a decided change to be made. The voice of command must no longer be heard. The Lord has among His workers men of humility and discretion; from these should be chosen men who will conduct the work in the fear of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 5)
It would be well if Elder Cottrell and at least one other worker of broad experience should be called upon to consult together and consider your plans that affect the medical work. God designs that His servants shall carry the responsibilities of that conference in a spirit of humility and dependence upon Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 6)
It is a dangerous work to invest men with authority to judge and rule their fellow men. Not to you nor to any other man has been given power to control the actions of God’s people, and the effort to do this must be no longer continued. God has been dishonored by the education that has been given to the churches in Southern California in looking to one man as conscience and judgment for them. God has never authorized any man to exercise a ruling power over his fellow workers; and those who have allowed a dictatorial spirit to come into their official work need to experience the converting power of God upon their hearts. They have placed man where God should be.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 7)
When men engage in labor for the souls of others, they are not to be made amenable to the will of their fellow laborers. God is well able to direct the course of action of those who work for Him. But when His laborers, instead of calling upon Him, seek first, and regard as of first importance the counsel and advice of human minds, He is dishonored. The method of sending one minister to another minister to learn his duty is a plan of working that should not be encouraged. Greater evils will result from such a course than finite and erring man can foresee.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 8)
My brother, God lives and reigns. Let your brethren have the right of way to the footstool of Christ. Encourage them to carry their burdens to the Lord, and not to any human being. Never take the responsibility of becoming conscience for another. As brethren you can counsel together, and pray together, and seek instruction from the source of all wisdom; but you are not to seek to direct another regarding his duty. Let all work of this character be done away. God forbids that this spirit shall again come into His work while time shall last.
(22LtMs, Lt 290, 1907, 9)
Lt 292, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma St. Helena, California September 21, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 358-359; 4MR 92-93; 9MR 93. + Elder J. E. White
Edgefield, Tennessee Dear Children Edson and Emma:
I am thankful to be able to report that my health is improving, though I am not yet able to meet regularly with my family for worship. We received your message stating that you would remain in Tennessee over the winter. Now that the hot weather is over, this may be a wise thing for you to do. I have had no certainty as to your movements. When I learn more from you, I shall be able to respond.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 1)
In about five weeks’ time I am expected to meet the physicians and ministers and leading workers who shall gather at Los Angeles for the medical convention. I trust that my health will permit me to do this.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 2)
I am still busy reading over the matter that is being prepared for the press. Thus far no additional book to that you have seen has gone to the printers. I have not yet had time to look over all that Sister Stuttle collected on the Youth’s Life of Christ. I see a large work opening before us in Southern California; but means is needed in order to carry it forward. I shall be glad when we have some more books in the market and can hope for means to come in. I am now paying eight per cent on one thousand dollars that I have drawn from the bank. When some more of my books are in circulation, I hope this debt can be canceled.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 3)
On Sabbath afternoon I was called to have an interview with Brother Robert Pratt’s wife. She has some heart difficulty and is apparently an invalid. She was at the sanitarium for some time; then the physician under whose care she was thought her sufficiently well to return to her home; but her home duties and the care of her children soon brought on the difficulty again. In their perplexity, the family sought the Lord in her behalf; and Sister Pratt was greatly blessed. She said that she was healed, and that she felt it her duty to go to her Uncle Pratt, who is afflicted with partial paralysis, and tell him that the Lord would heal him also, if he would surrender himself to God. The following day she went to his home, about a mile from here. The uncle is not an open professor, but he has always tried to act according to Bible principles. He was greatly moved by what she told him. But after returning home, Sister Pratt was again troubled with fever and heart difficulty.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 4)
On Sabbath she sent for me to come to her. I had some conversation with her on the subject of faith. I told her some of my own experiences at times when I would leave home to answer some call to speak when I was in a state of such feebleness that I had hardly strength to speak the names of my associates. I told her how at such times, when I would try to speak, putting my trust in God, the power of God would come upon me, and I would be healed of my infirmity. After a little I prayed with Sister Pratt, and several others who were present also prayed. Then I returned to my home. I was very weary and could not sleep for hours; but I did not regret my visit to this dear soul. I believe the Lord will raise her up to care for her husband and her children. Brother Pratt and his mother are excellent people. They are firm as a rock to principle. Brother Pratt and his wife are not in very favorable surroundings. Their home is so hemmed in that they do not get plenty of sunshine and fresh air. The Lord understands how to care for this case, and I believe He will.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 5)
The wickedness that is being revealed in the cities of San Francisco and Oakland shows that the world is fast becoming as it was before the flood. The union men who have struck for higher wages, by their destruction of property, and their attempts to destroy life, are plainly showing to what a pass men will come who are determined to carry out their own plans regardless of others. Many of the police will not come out and act their part. They are discouraged. What the end will be, the human mind cannot determine.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 6)
The Lord is bringing the perplexities of these social problems to our notice, that we may see the evil of seeking to carry out our own way and will. This is an evil that has appeared again and again in our work, and which is appearing now. The natural man needs to be converted; the Spirit of God is needed to operate upon human hearts. Many of our church members are becoming weak because, instead of depending upon God, they are self-sufficient.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 7)
I am instructed to say to our churches, Study the testimonies. They are written for our admonition and encouragement upon whom the ends of the world are come. If God’s people will not study these messages that are sent to them from time to time, they are guilty of rejecting light. Line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, God is sending instruction to His people. Heed the instruction; follow the light. The Lord has a controversy with His people, because in the past they have not heeded His instruction and followed His guidance.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 8)
I have been reading volume six of the Testimonies, and I find in this little book instruction that will help us to meet many perplexing questions. How many have read the article “Evangelistic Work” in this volume? I advise that these directions and warnings and cautions be read to our people at some time when they are gathered together. By far too small a portion of our people are in possession of these books.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 9)
By His Holy Spirit, God has spoken to me, His messenger, from time to time; and I am bidden to give the word to the people. What His servants shall teach has been clearly outlined. If fewer words of human wisdom and more of the words of Christ were spoken, if there were fewer sermons and more social meetings, we would find a different atmosphere pervade our churches and our camp-meetings. Seasons of prayer should be held for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Then let the leader of the meeting, by a few appropriate remarks, open the way for the church members to bear witness to their love for God.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 10)
Teach the truth in its simplicity; open to the understanding of the people the precious words of Christ. These are as the waters of salvation to thirsting souls. The last warning message is to be given to the world. Give the third angel’s message; show that the signs that predict Christ’s second coming are rapidly being fulfilled. Repeat the message of (Revelation 18:1-4): “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” We are not half awake to our duties and responsibilities.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 11)
Edson, do not enter into controversy with any soul that lives. Give to the people the truth that God has given to you. You are not prepared to meet the agencies set in operation by the enemy to discourage and to make of none effect the Word of God. I am praying for you that the Lord may give you light and guide you to the place where you can best glorify Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 292, 1907, 12)
Lt 294, 1907
Ministers, Physicians, and Teachers in Southern California St. Helena, California September 12, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 266-270. To Ministers, Physicians, and Teachers in Southern California Dear Brethren:
I have a message to bear to some who hold positions of responsibility in the Southern California Conference. They are losing from their experience that true fervor which the presence of the Holy Spirit gives, and which would teach them to subdue self and walk humbly in the way of Christ. The responsible worker who will not become a humble follower of Christ will do great harm to the cause of God by molding and fashioning the experience of the conference to a common, worldly standard. The sacred work that we handle, if performed in a spirit of consecration, will never cheapen the experience of a single soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 1)
The men who stand as presidents of conferences, or as leaders in any part of the solemn work of the last gospel message, must cultivate and cherish broad views and ideas. It is the privilege of all who bear responsibilities in the work of the gospel to be apt learners in Christ’s school. The professed follower of Christ must not be led by the dictates of his own will; his mind must be trained to think Christ’s thoughts and enlightened to comprehend the will and way of God. Such a believer will be a follower of Christ’s methods of work.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 2)
A mistake has been made in the course that has been followed to clear the San Fernando school from debt. When the school property was first purchased, and the minds of our people were upon it, only a feeble effort was made to raise the money spent in its purchase. But after the sanitariums were purchased, and the sympathy and financial strength of the people were needed to put them in working order, there were some who made the school debt the mater of first consideration, and who, by criticism of the sanitarium work and management, discouraged the brethren from giving them the full support that they needed.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 3)
The Lord did not call upon the president of the conference to make it his first work to gather up the gifts of our people for the school. There was necessity just then of giving first attention to the requirements of the sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 4)
Provision for Our Schools
Our brethren should not forget that the wisdom of God has made provision for our schools in a way that will bring blessing to all who participate in the enterprise. The book Christ’s Object Lessons was donated to the educational work, that the students and other friends of the schools might handle these books and by their sale raise much of the means needed to lift the school indebtedness. But this plan has not been presented to our schools as it should have been; the teachers and students have not been educated to take hold of this book and courageously push its sale for the benefit of the education work.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 5)
Long ago, the teachers and students in our schools should have learned to take advantage of Christ’s Object Lessons. In selling these books the students will serve the cause of God, and while doing this, by the dissemination of precious light, they will learn invaluable lessons in Christian experience. All our schools should now come into line and earnestly endeavor to carry out the plan presented to us for the education of the workers, for the relief of the schools, and for the winning of souls to the cause of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 6)
In the cities of Riverside, Redlands, and San Bernardino, a mission field is open to us that we have as yet only touched with the tips of our fingers. A good work has been done there as far as our workers have had encouragement to do it; but there is need of means to carry the work forward successfully. It was God’s purpose that by the sale of Ministry of Healing and Christ’s Object Lessons much means should be raised for the work of our sanitariums and schools, and that our people would thereby be left more free to donate of their means for the opening of the work in new missionary fields. If our people will now engage in the sale of these books as they ought, we shall have much more means to carry the work in the way the Lord designed.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 7)
Wherever the work of selling Christ’s Object Lessons has been taken hold of in earnest, the book has done good. And the lessons that have been learned by those who have engaged in this work have well repaid their efforts. And now our people should all be encouraged to take part in this special missionary effort. Light has been given me that in every possible way instruction should be given to our people in the best methods of presenting these books to the people.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 8)
I have been instructed that at our large gatherings, workers should be present who will teach our people how to sow the seeds of truth. This means more than instructing them in how to sell the Signs of the Times and other periodicals. It includes thorough instruction in how to handle such books as Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing. These are books which contain precious truths and from which the reader can draw lessons of highest value.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 9)
Why was not someone appointed at your recent camp-meeting to present the interests of this line of work to our people? In your failure to do this, you lost a precious opportunity to place large blessings within the reach of the people, and you also lost an opportunity of raising means for the relief of our institutions. My brethren, let us encourage our people to take up this work without further delay.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 10)
There are some who have had experience in the sale of health foods who should now interest themselves in the sale of our precious books; for in them is food unto eternal life. Los Angeles has been presented to me as a very fruitful field for the sale of Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing. The thousands of transient residents and visitors would be benefited by the lessons they contain, and those who bear responsibilities in our sanitariums should act wisely in this matter, encouraging all—nurses, helpers, and students—to gather by this means as much as possible of the money required to meet the expenses of the different institutions. We have need of workers in Southern California who have clear spiritual eyesight, men who will weigh matters wisely, and who can discern what is needed both nigh and afar off. If our workers were more fully consecrated to the cause of God, a much more effective work would be done.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 11)
Why are our people so slow to understand what the Lord would have them do? Our leading workers should prepare beforehand to use their opportunities at our large and small gatherings to present these books to our people and call for volunteers who will engage in their sale. When this work is entered into with the earnestness which our times demand, the indebtedness which now rests upon our schools will be greatly lessened. And then the people who are now being called upon to give largely of their means to support these institutions will be free to turn a larger part of their offerings to missionary work in other needy places, where special efforts have not yet been made.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 12)
Great good will result by bringing these books to the attention of the leaders of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. We should invite these workers to our meetings and give them an opportunity to become acquainted with our people. Place these precious books in their hands, and tell them the story of their gift to the cause and its results. Explain how that by the sale of Ministry of Healing patients may be brought to the sanitarium for healing who could never get their unaided, and how through this means assistance will be rendered in the establishment of sanitariums in places where they are greatly needed. If our sanitariums are wisely managed by men and women who have the fear of God before them, they will be the means of bringing us in connection with workers in the W.C.T.U.; and these workers will not be slow to see the advantage of the medical branch of our work. As a result of their contact with our medical work, some of them will learn truths that they need to know for the perfection of Christian character.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 13)
One point that should never be forgotten by our workers is that the Lord Jesus Christ is our Chief Director. He has outlined a plan by which the schools may be relieved of their indebtedness; and He will not vindicate the course of those who lay this plan aside for lack of confidence in its success. When His people will come up unitedly to the help of His cause in the earth, no good thing that God has promised will be withheld from them.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 14)
In a place like Los Angeles, where the population is constantly changing, a wonderful opportunity is presented for the sale of our books. A great loss has been sustained because our people have not more fully embraced this opportunity. Why should not the teachers and students from the San Fernando school make Los Angeles a special field for the sale of Object Lessons? If with earnestness and faith they will work out the plan that has been given us for the use of this book, angels of God will attend their steps, and the blessing of heaven will be upon their efforts.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 15)
It would have been an excellent thing if the teachers of the San Fernando School during the vacation had availed themselves of this opportunity to push the work with Christ’s Object Lessons. They would have found a blessing in going out with the students and teaching them how to meet the people and how to introduce the book. The story of the gift of the book and its object would lead some to have a special interest in the book, and in the school for which it is sold. Why have not the teachers in our schools done more of this work? If our people would only realize it, there is no more acceptable work to be done in the home field than to engage in the sale of Object Lessons; for while they are thus helping to carry out the Lord’s plan for the relief of our schools, they are also bringing the precious truths of the Word of God to the attention of the people.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 16)
The indifference that has been manifested by some toward this enterprise is displeasing to God. He desires that it shall be recognized by all our people as His method of relieving our schools from debt. It is because this plan has been neglected that we now feel so keenly our lack of means for the advancing work. Had the schools availed themselves of the provision thereby made for them, there would be more money in the school treasury and more money in the hands of His people to relieve the necessities of other needy departments of the cause; and best of all, teachers and students would have received the very lessons that they needed to learn in the Master’s service.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 17)
I send you these lines because I see that there is need of a deeper intuition, a wider perception, on the part of our sanitarium and educational workers, if they would get all the benefit that God intends shall come to them through the use of Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing. I ask you, my brethren, to read these words to our people, that they may learn to show the spirit of wisdom, and of power, and of a sound mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 18)
I have been instructed that the students and nurses are to handle these books, and in their efforts to sell them, are to gain a precious experience in missionary work.
(22LtMs, Lt 294, 1907, 19)
Lt 296, 1907
Butler, G. I. St. Helena, California September 22, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Elder G. I. Butler
Nashville, Tennessee Dear Brother:
We have read your letter with much interest. We feel thankful for any token of good that you can discern in any place; for this is the last warning message that will be given to the world. We say to you, Keep close to the side of Christ. Walk humbly with God. You will have many things of a discouraging nature to meet; but if you will look continually to Jesus, you will understand His mind and will learn to do His will. The Lord calls for true repentance and reformation at every step.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 1)
I am hoping for generous donations from our people for the work in the South in the October offerings. O that the Lord would open the hearts of His people to give! I pray that there may be no withholding from Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 2)
I am praying for you, Elder Butler, that the Lord will open the way before you, and that you may see light in His light and walk with an eye single to His glory. Do not permit the enemy to confuse your mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 3)
I have been instructed that a change must be made in the methods of conducting our camp-meetings. They are not to be carried altogether as they have been in the past. Spiritual interests are to be given a larger place. That which is to be considered of greatest importance is the conversion of souls. We are not to give the message in so indifferent a manner. The message of (Revelation 18:1, 2) contains the great test for the people. It is to be given with a solemn sense of its importance, that it may do its special work.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 4)
“I saw another angel come down from heaven,” John, led by the Spirit, declared, “having great power; and the earth was lightened with His glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen; and is become the habitation of devils and the hold of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of her fornication; and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her; and the merchants of the earth have waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard a voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues; for her sins have reached to heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” [Verses 1-5.] I ask you to read this whole chapter; its scenes were so powerfully presented to me that for a time I was not able to write on this subject.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 5)
I have been shown that changes are to be made in our printing offices. The Lord is not pleased with the spirit that has prevailed in some of our institutions; a ruling power has come in that God does not acknowledge. Another Spirit and another power is to control. The converting power of God must come upon those in positions of trust; for the Holy Spirit cannot work through them.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 6)
The Lord desires that we shall walk and work by faith. If we will put our trust in Him, He will open ways before us for the upbuilding of His cause. There was a time when there were no sanitariums among us, where the sick could be treated without the use of drugs. Thinking men and women, who could reason from cause to effect, saw the advantage to be gained by having such institutions, where we could carry forward the work of health reform.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 7)
As the work advanced, we established sanitariums. These were necessarily small in their beginnings, and simple in their operation, but they became powerful agencies for the spread of a knowledge of the truth for these times. When through the providence of God, properties were placed within our reach, we grasped the opportunity and purchased the needed buildings.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 8)
The facilities of these health institutions have gradually increased, and great blessing has been brought to the suffering through their agency. We thank God for these sanitariums; we have none too many. There is need that now, in the year 1907, our people should arouse to their duties in the work of advancing the cause of health reform.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 9)
We need to be diligent students of the Bible. Christ declared, “I have given them Thy word, and the world hath hated them; because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world; sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee; that they also may be one in Us; that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me. And the glory which Thou gavest Me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one. I in them, and Thou in Me; that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:14-23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 10)
This is God’s way for training each for his path of duty. As laborers together with God, we are to place ourselves under discipline to Christ. God is preparing His faithful servants to occupy trying positions, to endure as brave soldiers. Let us learn to look to the Captain of our salvation and obey His orders. We are to wrestle against more than earthly foes; but we go forth to the battle not in human strength, but in the strength of the Lord God of hosts. And every battle fought in righteousness will nerve the soul to press on with renewed courage.
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 11)
My brother, take courage; the Lord will strengthen you for your work if you will put your dependence in Him. And not to you only, but to every worker in every sanitarium, in every school, in every printing office, in every branch of the work. Let us ever bear in mind that “he that ruleth his spirit is greater than he that taketh a city.” [Proverbs 16:32.]
(22LtMs, Lt 296, 1907, 12)
Lt 298, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma St. Helena, California September 26, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Elder J. E. White
Edgefield, Tennessee Dear Edson and Emma:
I have just sent you a letter, but I do not think I told you in that that I am pleased with your decision to remain in Nashville until your property is disposed of. Do not give the impression that you are discouraged, or are driven out of Nashville. If you should leave at this time, some might interpret the move unfavorably to you. If you think best, you can spend the hottest part of the year away from Nashville.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 1)
I believe I shall bear my testimony again in the southern states. I am pained as I see the situation before us. I want to visit Nashville this winter, if my health will permit. I have a message to bear there. I have something written for the workers in the Nashville office, which I will have copied and sent.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 2)
We are still working on the book concerning the work in the South. I hope that we shall soon see it in print.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 3)
The Sabbath truth is to be brought before the cities of the South; the third angel’s message is to be given with power. “After these things,” John says, “I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and the cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations of the earth have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth have waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” [Revelation 18:1-4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 4)
We are in danger of giving this wonderful message in a tame and unimpressive way, when it should go with power. Every voice should now be raised in giving the note of warning in our cities, at our camp-meetings, and at every opportunity that arises. The Sabbath truth is the great testing truth for the people of this time. We need to equip ourselves for the battle; we need to be transformed in character that we ourselves may stand the test.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 5)
Our work is an aggressive one; we have an important work to do as the Lord’s mouthpieces. We are to walk in all simplicity, yet with that confidence that those should have who realize that they are the lights of the world. We are to give unmistakable evidence of a growing spirituality. A spirit of prayer and a spirit of witnessing should rest upon all who bear a part in this solemn work.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 6)
At the close of your meetings, opportunity should be given for those who wish to bear testimony for God. A call should be made for the careless and indifferent to give themselves to Christ. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” [2 Corinthians 6:2.] The sweet influence of the Holy Spirit will convict and convert souls. We have earnest work to do, and time is very short. Soon the wails of a world’s sorrow will be heard in the cry, “The harvest is past, the summer is ended; and we are not saved.” [Jeremiah 8:20.] Now is the time to make our calling and election sure. Thousands of souls can be reached by simple, humble methods of labor. The Lord has a work for men as well as women to do. Through those who are meek and lowly in heart, He will speak words that will rescue souls that are perishing.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 7)
Edson, if you are comfortable in the place where you are, and feel that this is where you should be, carry out your convictions. Do not allow yourself to get into a strait place. I understand what this means, and I can tell you that it means loss. Wait on the Lord and seek His guidance. I believe that your decision to remain in Nashville is a wise one. But do not work early and late. Give yourself time to rest. Do not speak unadvisedly; do not lay your burdens on Emma. Seek the Lord, and put your trust in Him. If you will surrender your mind and will to God, He will surely lead you in right ways. Be of good courage in the Lord. I am pleading in your behalf, that God may give you the victory. Heaven is worth everything to us, and individually we are to strive to obtain it.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 8)
We are expecting Elder Rogers soon. I shall visit with him when he comes.
(22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, 9)
Lt 300, 1907
Olsen, O. A. NP September 29, 1907 [typed] Portions of this letter are published in TDG 281.
Dear Brother:
I would be glad to sit down with you this morning and have a long talk; but as that is impossible, I will write to you some things I wish to say.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 1)
We are now witnessing the results of a failure on the part of some to walk in the light that God has sent to His people. When Elder A. T. Jones took his stand for the re-opening of the Battle Creek College, I was shown the danger of his taking such a stand and the results that would follow. It came to pass as I foresaw. Elder Jones has taken his position against the testimonies and is leading souls away with him. Satan has gained that which he planned for, and Elder Jones, in walking in opposition to the messages of the Spirit of God, has brought loss to his own soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 2)
We cannot afford to walk carelessly, Brother Olsen. We must walk in the light as Christ is in the light. Then our words and works will reflect light to others. A. T. Jones has walked in the sparks of his own kindling, and time has revealed that he has walked in a false light.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 3)
When the question of high wages came up in the Review and Herald Board, there were those who determined to carry out their own selfish plans. Frank Belden’s voice was heard long and loud, until he gained his end. Satan was seeking to lead Frank Belden into strange paths; greed and selfishness were working to ruin his soul. He yielded to this influence; his disposition became perverted, and self-will and self-exaltation gained the supremacy. Yet all this need not have been if the light God had given regarding wages had been faithfully followed.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 4)
Dr. Kellogg followed his own way instead of the way of the Lord. He sought to usurp authority and made unrighteous lawyers his dependence in carrying out his own mind and will. Thousands of dollars were lost to the cause of God, and Dr. Kellogg was also made to suffer. Sooner or later, all who depart from the laws of God, in order to gain some personal advantage, will be caught in the trap that Satan has laid for them.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 5)
By the true follower of Christ, every business transaction will be regarded as a part of his religion, just as prayer is a part of his religion. The study of the Scriptures will be considered a part of his religion; for by this he learns his orders. In the light of the Scriptures, man regards himself as God’s servant, employed to do His will. Sometimes he finds these orders opposed to that which he would choose, were the decision left to him; but he does not find fault with his work because of this. And as he seeks to carry out the will of the Master, angels of God are with him, to be his defense against the wiles of Satan. The Word of God is to be our daily teacher. This is the only true source of comfort in all our trials, the only true source of encouragement and instruction in our labors.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 6)
The Christian is to stand as a representative of the principles of heaven. He is bound by sacred obligations to represent the truth in its virtue and loveliness. Gentleness and kindness and strict truthfulness should mark his words and actions. Consecrated to God, set apart to His service, he will always honor his religious faith. No thread of selfishness is to be woven into the character. We are to educate ourselves to reveal the Spirit of God in all our lifework.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 7)
The Spirit of God will never lead the steps of God’s children astray. Through the power that the Holy Spirit imparts, we may weed out from our lives every questionable thing. If we will come out of the darkness with which a lack of faith enshrouds the soul, and place ourselves where the clear shining of the light of God’s Word can fall fully upon us, we shall be led step by step in the path that leads to holiness. “We all with open face, beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 3:18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 8)
We need to understand that the gospel fully reveals the glory of the Lord. It is the mirror that reveals the character of God to the converted soul. The likeness of God is revealed in the perfect character of His Son, that we may understand what it means to be made in the image of God, and what we may become if by constantly beholding we allow ourselves to be changed from “glory to glory.” [Verse 18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 9)
The love, the honor and perfection revealed in the gospel is a revelation to man of the character of God. We who have had such high privileges, such great light, will have no excuse if we do not understand the kind of character that God would have us form. The justice and goodness and benevolence that were revealed in the character of Christ are to be repeated in those who accept the privileges of the gospel. By a study of the Word, we are to see Him as He is and, charmed with the view of His divine perfection, we are to be changed into the same image.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 10)
It is our privilege, by an earnest study of the Word, to learn wherein we are not revealing the principle of that Word in our daily lives. And as the mirror reveals to us our defects, we are to seek by earnest prayer and faith to put them away and come up to the standard that is given us. As we strive to meet the perfection that God desires for us, insensibly to us the image of God will be revealed in words and works and spirit. The human will become molded to the divine. Christ’s nature will be revealed in human nature; the words will become gentle and courteous, the ways kind and helpful. Though we are unconscious largely of the change, yet the transformation is being surely wrought. Beholding day by day the glory of the Lord, we are molded into conformity to His Spirit and His will.
(22LtMs, Lt 300, 1907, 11)
Lt 302, 1907
Starr, Lillis Wood St. Helena, California September 19, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in LLM 274-275. Dr. Lillis Wood Starr
Loma Linda, California Dear Sister Starr:
I feel very thankful that you have had the privilege of becoming better acquainted with the workers of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. Our workers should make special efforts to come in touch with this organization and to connect with the workers in the temperance cause. This will prove a great help to our own people, and also to these women workers. If the present truth is presented to them in the simplicity of godliness, they will see and accept it. We must keep close to the Lord. If we are imbued with His Spirit, the light will shine forth. It is Christ in the life that will make the truths we advocate forcible and will lead souls to accept Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 1)
While many of the workers in the W.C.T.U. have heard the truth of the third angel’s message, there are many more who have never had it presented to them in its fulness. These women will not be condemned for not receiving that which they have not heard. I have been shown that if the Sabbath truth is presented to these, many will accept it. We should not neglect them, or treat them as if they were opposed to the cause of present truth. By showing ourselves interested in their work of temperance, we shall open the way to give them the light we have.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 2)
We need so much to study Christ’s methods of labor. He traveled continually from place to place, ministering to the temporal and spiritual needs of the multitudes that followed Him. He grasped every opportunity of presenting truth to the people, and the seeds of truth He dropped into the hearts of His hearers sprang up and brought forth fruit.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 3)
“After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. And a great multitude followed Him, because they saw His miracles which He did on them that were diseased. And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there He sat with His disciples. And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 4)
“When Jesus then lifted up His eyes, and saw a great company come unto Him, He saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat? And this He said to prove him; for He Himself knew what He would do. Philip answered Him, Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 5)
“One of the disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, saith unto Him, There is a lad here which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes, but what are they among so many? And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. And Jesus took the loaves; and when He had given thanks, He distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. When they were filled, He said unto His disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above to them that had eaten. Then those men, when they had seen the miracle which Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet which should come into the world.” [John 6:1-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 6)
I have been shown that we have not labored as we should for the women of the W.C.T.U. They need patient, wise, Christlike efforts made for them. We can never do for them what God expects of us by standing apart from them to condemn. We need to give them the truth as it was revealed in the life of Jesus.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 7)
Let no one hinder you from putting forth efforts to get the Sabbath truth before this class. Show them that you desire to connect with them in their work of temperance. Draw near to them, and in your association together, show them that you have a practical faith. And they, by coming to our meetings, and being permitted to have a part in them, will learn the reasons of our faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 8)
At our camp-meetings we should make special efforts to reach the unbelieving, and to let the light shine forth amid the moral darkness. Consecration meetings should be held as well as discourses given. The living truths for this time should be preached. At the Los Angeles camp-meeting opportunities should have been improved to make special efforts for the workers in the temperance cause. The tame way in which the temperance question is being handled by our people is not in harmony with the necessities of the times. The work of making known our belief in matters of temperance should now be entered into most heartily. When the W.C.T.U. workers see that we are in harmony with their temperance principles, they will be willing to listen to other points of our faith. As we present our principles on health reform, they will see that there is further light for them on the temperance question. We can then bring the Sabbath truth before them.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 9)
I cannot at this time write as fully as I desire, but I urge you, my sister, to let the light of health reform shine forth in clear, bright rays. The Lord will bless you in this work as He makes your knowledge of the truth a blessing to others. Lean hard upon God; trust fully in Him; walk in humility, realizing that the Lord is your helper, and your deliverer, your frontguard and your rearward.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 10)
I am glad that you have found a place for your children in the country. Let them have plenty of outdoor life. Their brains should not be greatly taxed. The mental powers will strengthen with the physical. Brother Starr also should have plenty of physical exercise.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 11)
Be of good courage in the Lord. Together you may link up with Christ and know that He is your strength. May the Lord help and strengthen and bless you, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 302, 1907, 12)
Lt 304, 1907
Rasmussen, Sister [M.] St. Helena, California September 28, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Mrs. M. Rasmussen
Bridgewater, South Dakota Dear Sister:
Your letters have been received, but I have been very busy with many urgent testimonies to write.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 1)
Now I will relate to you some of my own experiences when I have been in perplexity. At one time I was much troubled because of the debts that rested on our sanitariums and schools. We felt that we could not have matters continue as they were, and I prayed often to the Lord to give me counsel regarding the matter.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 2)
A plan was revealed to me whereby the debts on these institutions could be lightened. I decided that I would publish the book Christ’s Object Lessons and donate it to the lifting of our school debts. I myself would bear the cost of preparing the book for the press, and I would invite the publishing houses to donate their part of the work, furnishing the book at the cost of the material and charging nothing for their labor. This they did, and the book, besides relieving the school indebtedness, has brought help and blessing to many people. At least two hundred thousand dollars have been brought in for the relief of the schools. I have never regretted the donation I made to this work.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 3)
Later we published the book Ministry of Healing, and with this I purposed in a similar way to help our sanitariums to lighten their debts. These two books have relieved the situation of many embarrassed sanitariums and schools; and they are still being sold for the benefit of the cause to which they were given.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 4)
Personally I carry a large debt, on which I pay interest. I have often wished that I could get out of this debt; but I have never had one temptation to appropriate the income from Christ’s Object Lessons to clear my indebtedness. I covenanted with the Lord that I would give it to the cause, and I shall not take back what I have given.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 5)
I might have said, when this plan of relief was suggested to me, I cannot make so large a donation; I am in debt. But I did not do this. I was shown that money must be raised to place educational work and our sanitarium work where it should be. The truth for this time was to go to all the world; the warning message must be carried to foreign fields. We must not hide our light under a bushel, but let it shine forth to all in the house.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 6)
Those to whom the Lord has entrusted means can act a very important part in the upbuilding of the cause of present truth. We do not know what is before us in the future; but we know that the cause of God needs help at the present time. Means are needed to bring the truth for these times before the people in the cities. Calls come in from various places for help in different lines. There are humble houses of worship to be built, small schools and sanitariums to be established. Let us help where help is needed.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 7)
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] The Son of God gave His precious life that He might bring salvation to perishing souls. Man could not satisfy the claims of justice; no human hand could apply the atoning blood and cleanse the heart from sin. Christ alone could do this work. He clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might touch humanity and bring it near to God. In the compassionate life of the Saviour we behold the character of the Father. “He that hath seen Me,” Christ declared, “hath seen the Father.” [John 14:9.] His life was spent in doing good, in ministering to the needs and sufferings of mankind. Those who accept Christ as their Saviour today may trust in His mercy and call upon Him in their need. Today, as when He walked the earth, He is the Saviour and deliverer of men. And those who accept Him as their Saviour accept also His commission to work His works. The assurance of His presence is given to every soul who labors for the upbuilding of His kingdom.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 8)
The Spirit of God is everywhere knocking for admittance to the hearts of men. God is caring for His work in every place. His children are the special objects of His care. Shall we not co-operate with Him in the work of opening doors for the entrance of this last gospel message? Shall not those who have means act their part in giving the precious truth for this time? Now is our day of opportunity.
(22LtMs, Lt 304, 1907, 9)
Lt 306, 1907
Nicola, Brother and Sister [C. C.] St. Helena, California September 30, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PC 291-292. Dr. C. C. Nicola
Hinsdale, Illinois Dear Brother and Sister Nicola:
Brother Burden has informed me that you have been considering again going to Loma Linda. I thank the Lord for this, for I know that Loma Linda is the place where you should go. I trust that the snare of the enemy is broken.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 1)
A message has been given me for you. I am charged to say to you, Do not go to Battle Creek. You do not understand how the enemy is working to place you in opposition to the truth and the work of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 2)
A. T. Jones, Dr. Kellogg, and Elder Tenney are all working under the same leadership. They are classing themselves with those of whom the apostle writes, “Some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] In the case of A. T. Jones, I can see the fulfilment of the warnings that were given me regarding him.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 3)
I want this message to come to you before you shall make a wrong move. I do not want you to imperil your souls. Heed the message that the Lord sends, and have nothing to do with those at Battle Creek who are opposing the messages of the Spirit of God. Clear light has been given me regarding those who are thus departing from the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 4)
I want you to understand that you are both in positive danger. I plead with you to break this influence that would lead you into wrong paths. It proceeds from the one who, if it were possible, would deceive the very elect. Free yourselves from the influence prevailing at Battle Creek, and place yourselves fully on the Lord’s side. I do not want you to lose your souls. I beg of you to resist the devil. Make your calling and election sure. Christ gave His precious life for you. Do not let Him make this sacrifice in vain.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 5)
My brother and sister, this is a life-and-death question with you. As the Lord’s messenger, I urge you to free yourselves from the snare of Satan and place yourselves on the platform of eternal truth. I cannot let you take this step without warning you of your danger. If I should do this, I would not be clear before God.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 6)
The world is fast becoming as it was before the flood. Wickedness of every description is abroad in the land. Very soon the earth will be ripe for destruction. It is time now for those who believe that Christ is soon coming to take their stand fully on the Lord’s side. I have an earnest desire that you shall stand with God’s loyal people.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 7)
I believe, Brother and Sister Nicola, that you will heed these words and decide to connect with the Loma Linda Sanitarium. Will you not write to me as soon as you receive this and set my mind at rest? May the Lord give you His Holy Spirit to guide and direct you, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 306, 1907, 8)
Lt 308, 1907
Foss, Mary St. Helena, California September 30, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in LDE 23; 10MR 150. Mrs. Mary P. Foss
West Minot, Maine My Dear Sister:
I have commenced many letters to you; but in the midst of my writing, I have been called off to attend to matters pertaining to the work in some part of the field, and I would forget that I had not completed your letter. This time I will try to finish my letter and send it off to you.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 1)
Until a few weeks ago I was in perplexity to know who to secure as cook for my family. Those whom I had had before this were excellent help, but they were obliged to leave. We have now secured a Brother and Sister Mason to fill this place. Brother Mason is my bookkeeper, and his wife does the cooking. We are close by the food factory and can provide ourselves with all our health foods. This makes the work in the cooking line quite light. Sara McEnterfer, whom you have seen, oversees matters about the home.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 2)
Dores Robinson, who married W. C. White’s eldest daughter, is helping on my book work and is also doing some work in ministerial lines. He goes with me when I leave home and reports my talks. Mabel and her husband Wilfred Workman are now in Washington, connected with the school at Takoma Park.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 3)
And now I must do just what I told you in the first part of my letter I have had to do so many times when writing to you. A large packet of letters from Australia and other places has been handed to me, which I must read. All of these will have to be answered. You will remember that I labored in Australia almost ten years. The work there is advancing, and especially is this so in Avondale, where our school is established. We have also a health retreat there, and a larger sanitarium nearer to Sydney.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 4)
Evening. I have just replied to one of the letters received in today’s mail, one that could not be delayed. My reply will go in the morning mail. I am now writing to you by lamplight.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 5)
I received in the Australian mail a letter from Vina Belden who is still living on Norfolk Island. She writes that she has had an ill turn, but is improving. Her trouble was heart difficulty. I wish for many reasons that she could leave the island; but the people there do not want her to leave, and she herself wants to remain. Indeed, I do not think anyone could persuade her to go. She desires to be buried beside her husband.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 6)
We know that the Lord is coming very soon. The world is fast becoming as it was in the days of Noah. It is given over to selfish indulgence. Eating and drinking are carried to excess. Men are drinking the poisonous liquor that makes them mad. The terrible reports we hear of murders and robberies, of railway accidents and deeds of violence, tell the story that the end of all things is at hand. Now, just now, we need to be preparing for the Lord’s second coming.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 7)
I have often desired to visit you, but there is so much to do. I am kept very busy answering the many letters that come to me. I am writing early and late. One of the workers I had in Australia has come here to help with my copying. We are also trying to get out a number of new books. There is a great deal of manuscript that I must examine before it can go to the press. W. C. White works with me and bears heavy responsibilities. He is trying to do the work his father would have done if he had lived. Just as soon as these new books are issued, you shall have a copy.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 8)
Our office building is quite near to the house. It is a two-story building, containing eight rooms—four below and four above. Another room is now being added, which will serve as a library; and a vault has been built, where my manuscripts and documents of value can be kept. This will be fireproof. Fires are becoming very frequent, and we must make these writings secure. We are thankful that so far we have been protected from any serious accident.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 9)
At Mountain View, where our printing office is located, and where the Signs of the Times is issued, the fire destroyed buildings and books valued at about $200,000. The insurance on the buildings covered this amount. My books were not insured, and this was a loss to me of about $5,000.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 10)
Mary, it has come to me through some source, I do not know how, that my twin sister and I were born in [1826]. I have it stated in my published books that the date was [1827]. Will you tell me which is the correct date. When you or Ellen reply to this letter, I shall consider the question settled. If the date is as I have stated, [1827], in next November I shall enter my eighty-first year. I expected, because of the injuries I received to my hip and limbs, to be a cripple in my old age, but there are none of my workers who can go up and down stairs more readily than I.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 11)
I am very desirous to hear from you, and from your daughter and her husband and John and his family. Sometimes it seems that I cannot give up the idea of seeing my relatives again. But the Lord is good, and greatly to be praised. If we will keep the commandments of God, we will be prepared to meet Him at His coming. Farewell, until we meet where partings shall be no more.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 12)
Your sister.
(22LtMs, Lt 308, 1907, 13)
Lt 310, 1907
Workman, Mabel White St. Helena, California October 2, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Mrs. Wilfred Workman
Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. Dear Granddaughter Mabel:
I was very pleased to read your letter. I did not suppose that the September climate in Washington would be as you represented. I cannot think that this weather will continue long. Be very careful, in this new climate, not to overwork.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 1)
We have all been very busy, and especially your father and I, engaged in constant, earnest work. We have to watch on the right hand and on the left lest Satan shall gain the advantage with souls. One night lately I did not sleep at all, the night before last I did not sleep after two, and again this morning I awoke at three. I am aroused from my sleep to write out messages that will guard souls against the snares of Satan.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 2)
I am so thankful that we have the Word of God. All who have this book have that which will make them wise unto salvation. Study the Word and be guided by its teachings. Pray with increasing faith to be guided by the Word in all the concerns of your life. You and your husband need to seek the wisdom of God, that you may obtain that knowledge which will make you wise unto salvation. We all need to cultivate faith. If believing, you will seek the wisdom that cometh from above, you will obtain a rich experience in the things of God. By receiving and obeying the truth, you will bring into your life a power that will keep the love of God fresh in heart and mind and soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 3)
That religion which has power to govern our thoughts and words will be a blessing to all who come under its influence. It will be productive of good fruit in our own lives and in the lives of others. We shall pray for you that your influence may be a blessing to those with whom you associate. It is the privilege of every child of God to gather from His word that strength will give him peace with God and peace with his fellow-beings. If you make this your experience, you will be a source of strength and blessing to your fellow-workers. You will reveal Christlikeness of character, and your ways will be acceptable to God.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 4)
If you will take a right view of your individual responsibility to let your influence be a Christian influence, God will make you a blessing. He will teach you to walk with wisdom and discretion, and in the meekness of Christ. The Lord will make you His missionaries, to help those who associate with you. If we love God, and keep His commandments, we cannot fail of being a light in the world. Be of good courage in the Lord. Look to Him in faith and trust, and He will bless you and make you a blessing in the school.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 5)
I have had represented to me the work that is going forward in every part of the world. There is much to be done, and every institution should be conducted with as little outlay of means as possible. Let all your works be of a character that will encourage a spirit of economy.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 6)
There is a large work to be done for the southern field. I am instructed to encourage, as I have never done before, the sale of Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing for the upbuilding of our educational and sanitarium work. Methods are to [be] devised by which the students can obtain an education by the sale of these books.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 7)
There is need of my writings being more widely circulated, for they give the messages that the Lord has sent to His people. You can both act a part in this work when opportunity presents itself. A great work is to be done in missionary lines. We are to be laborers together with God in doing His work in the earth.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 8)
Facilities are being rapidly multiplied for the speedy accomplishment of the work. Soon, very soon, the wickedness of the wicked will be brought to an end. In a vision of the night I was instructed to look. I saw signs of wonderful activity in the southern field. Companies of believers, men and women, were doing their utmost to increase facilities for the carrying forward of the work. School houses were being erected, that would also serve as places of worship for the colored people. Those who had been converted from this people were laboring earnestly to accomplish the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 9)
The Lord is calling for converted workers, who will act as faithful ministers and teachers to the colored people. We need less of commercial enterprises, and more church buildings and missionaries. My soul is burdened when I consider the work that must be done in the southern states. We should be very guarded in our use of means, that money may not be used largely in a few places when there are so many fields where the missionary must go forth with this last message of warning.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 10)
I will now close up this letter. I will pray that God will help you both to act your part faithfully, and in a spirit of meekness. I wish I could bear my testimony in many places in the South. Again I say to you, Do not overwork. Remember that you are in a new climate and must act prudently.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 11)
In much love.
(22LtMs, Lt 310, 1907, 12)
Lt 312, 1907
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.] NP October 2, 1907 [typed] This letter is published in entirety in PC 292-293. Elder J. A. Burden
Loma Linda, Redlands, California Dear Brother and Sister Burden:
I have just written a letter to Brother and Sister Nicola. I have sent you a copy of this. We should use every opportunity we have to save these souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 1)
The apostle [Jude] writes: “Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our Lord into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.... But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted with the flesh.” [Jude 3, 4, 20-23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 2)
We shall have more decided opposition to meet from those who have departed from the faith. Those who were once strong teachers, but who have forsaken the way of the Lord, will be just as strong in their opposition of the truth. There is need now that our people be educated to put their trust in God alone. They must learn that their trust is not to be placed in any human voice or arm of flesh. We need ever to keep in mind the experiences of the children of Israel, and learn the lesson that the record of their failures is intended to teach us.
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 3)
“What shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.]
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 4)
The Lord wants you to understand your individual responsibility for the salvation of your soul. With the Word of God as your guide and instructor, you are to personally work out your own salvation. You are to strive to secure eternal life, when you may dwell forever with the Lord. In studying how you may gain this, seek for that wisdom which God alone can impart. Accept the invitation, “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given.” [James 1:5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 5)
“My brethren,” the apostle James writes, “count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations, knowing that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed; for let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” [Verses 2-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 6)
There is an individual work for all to do before our labors can accomplish anything for others. Blessed is that man who endures temptation, who when he is tried, takes the Word of life as his own, brings the promises to the Lord, and claims them as his. This man relies not on any human power, but on the strength of the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 7)
Faith in the Word of God will bring to us the fulfilment of His promises. “Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do,” the Saviour declares. “If ye shall ask anything in My name, I will do it.” [John 14:13, 14.] “And all things whatsoever ye shall ask in faith believing, ye shall receive.” [Matthew 21:22.] When we learn to place our reliance not on the word of man, but in God, He will make that word Yea and Amen to us in Christ Jesus.
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 8)
Brother and Sister Burden, study the Word. You are not to go to any man to learn your duty. Take the Bible as your guide; live its teachings. “Ask and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] We all need a deeper spirituality; we should each seek God for ourselves. Let us ever remember that while we seek to follow one pattern Christ Jesus, we are to maintain our individuality.
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 9)
“Do not err, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of His own will begat He us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” [James 1:16-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 10)
When the Word of God is received and obeyed, your light will shine forth in good works. “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any man be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a natural man beholding his face in a glass; for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the word, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 11)
“If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” [Verses 22-27.]
(22LtMs, Lt 312, 1907, 12)
Lt 314, 1907
Daniells, A. G.; Evans. I. H. St. Helena, California September 23, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 8MR 201-207. Elders Daniells and Evans Dear Brethren:
I have words to speak to you in reference to the calls that are from time to time made in behalf of the colored people, and the funds that shall come in response to these calls. It is stated by Brother Bollman that the work for the colored people is frequently deprived of the means that should come to the workers there, and that, therefore, that field does not receive all the donations intended for it.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 1)
I desire to say to you, my brethren, that not one penny of the means that comes in from different sources for the work in the southern field should be diverted to the work elsewhere. If the Lord has opened the hearts of His people to give to this field, that its distressing needs may be met, let it not be truthfully said that any portion of the means given was withheld from the field for which it was intended.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 2)
The standard of truth is to be lifted in new territories in the South. School buildings, humble but neat, are to be erected in various places. Churches are to be established. Some of the school buildings may be erected by the students themselves, under the instruction of men who understand this line of work. If the work of instruction is faithfully done, every stroke can be made to tell in the education of the students. And the buildings will be an object lesson to those living in the community, as well as a channel through which souls will be converted to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 3)
My brethren, I ask you in the name of the Lord, that you be careful how you handle the donations that are made to the southern field. Not one dollar is to be turned aside to any other field. I entreat of you to be very careful.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 4)
The Lord has instructed me that from the first the work in Huntsville and Madison should have received adequate help. But instead of this help being rendered promptly, there has been long delay. And in the matter of the Madison school, there has been a standing off from them because they were not under the ownership and control of some conference. This is a question that should sometimes be considered, but it is not the Lord’s plan that means should be withheld from Madison, because they are not bound to the conference. The attitude which some of our brethren have assumed toward this enterprise shows that it is not wise for every working agency to be under the dictation of conference officers. There are some enterprises under certain conditions that will produce better results if standing alone.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 5)
When my advice was asked in reference to the Madison school, I said, Remain as you are. There is danger in binding every working agency under the dictation of the conference. The Lord did not design that this should be. The circumstances were such that the burden-bearers in the Madison school could not bind up their work with the conference. I knew their situation; and when many of the leading men in our conferences ignored them because they did not place their school under conference dictation, I was shown that they would not be helped by making themselves amenable to the conference. They had better remain as led by God, amenable to Him, to work out His plans. But this matter need not be blazed abroad.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 6)
In their change from Berrien Springs, Brethren Sutherland and Magan made many sacrifices. The Lord counseled them where to go, and in their labors at Madison, they have worked far beyond their strength. But under the direction of the Lord they are capable of doing a good work. They will give to the students who come there an education altogether different than what has been given in Washington during the past years. They will not only labor to impart an education in book knowledge and manual work, but they will endeavor to teach the students to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 7)
These teachers should be regarded not as men who have had no valuable experience, but as men who have in the past accomplished a great and good work, and who have suffered privations for the cause of God. They have not exacted their just dues. Had some of their brethren been better able to reason from cause to effect, there would be a different record. The restrictions by which their hands have been tied are not pleasing to the Lord. They might have had a sanitarium and suitable buildings, and they might have been years in advance of where they now are. I would say, Let justice now be done.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 8)
The world is our field; God’s children who feel a burden for the work of the message are to be allowed to work where the Spirit directs them. Let not a forbidding power be exercised to restrict them in their work. Let God accomplish His work through the agencies that He chooses. A great mistake has been made in the exercise of human authority in God’s work, and I am bidden to proclaim the message: “Break every yoke, and let the oppressed go free.” [Isaiah 58:6.] I am bidden to say to church members, “Arise, shine; for thy light is come; and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” [Isaiah 60:1.]
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 9)
When the disciples returned from their first missionary tour, the Saviour asked them, “Lacked ye anything?” And the answer was given, “Nay, Lord.” [Luke 22:35.] The same power that supplied the needs of the first disciples will provide for the necessities of those who today go forth to labor earnestly to give the last gospel message to the world. O why do men and women feel so little burden to take up the work that needs to be done? Angels of God are waiting to go forth with them in this work.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 10)
In the restrictions that have been placed on some who desired to do a definite work, many have found an excuse why they should not engage in active missionary work. I am bidden to bear my testimony against unnecessary restrictions being laid on those who desire to act a part in the work of the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 11)
In all their associations together, God desires His followers to guard their personal responsibility to Him, and their individual dependence upon Him. He is the Author and Finisher of our faith. No ruling power of man over man is to be exercised. We have as a people lost much time and means because we have not followed closely the Lord’s plans for us. By carrying out their own devisings, men get in the way of the Lord and close up the avenue by which He would reach those who need the blessings of the gospel.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 12)
My brethren, stand out of the way of your fellow beings. Do not, by act of yours, hinder the work that God would have done for the people of the South, in bringing to them the light of the truth. Time is passing rapidly, and the truth has yet to go to thousands in this field. Do not hinder, but pray and work, that God may use His human agencies as He designs.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 13)
Again and again the Lord has presented to me the needs of the unworked South. I have also been shown that our men in responsible positions need to feel the converting power of God on heart and mind and soul, or they will, in their self-sufficiency, hinder the work that should be done. The Lord has a controversy with His ministers, because they have not taught church members how to work for perishing souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 14)
Tell our people there is a work to be done in the South in teaching the old men and women how to read. For generations the colored people have been deprived of educational advantages which they should have been receiving. Church members might have engaged their talents and means in this work; but some, instead of doing this, have spent their time and money for self-gratification, while these, their fellow beings, because of their color, were left in ignorance and sin.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 15)
Ask our brethren how they will answer when the question is asked us, What have you done with the means I lent you in trust? Shall we feel justified when we are obliged to say, “I spent it for self, for dress, and amusements.” In the day of final reckoning, the Lord will deal with each soul individually.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 16)
The Bible has not been studied as it should have been, that we might understand the will of God for His children. I now call upon presidents of conferences and men in responsible positions to set in operation every possible means by which the members of the churches may learn how to work for the perishing. Let those who have had experience teach those who are inexperienced. Let them pray together, and search the Word of God together.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 17)
There is a great work to be done right in the shadow of our doors. In order to accomplish all that is expected of us, the command must be obeyed: “Sell that ye have and give alms; provide yourselves bags that wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not.” [Luke 12:33.] O that those who profess the name of Christ would return to the Lord His own of talents and of means!
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 18)
More decided calls should be made for volunteers to enter the whitening fields. Unless there is more done than has been done for the cities of America, church members will have a heavy account to meet for neglected duties. We pray, “Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven.” [Matthew 6:10.] We profess to believe that the commission given to the first disciples includes the followers of Christ in 1907. But what are we doing? I pray that the Holy Spirit may move upon human hearts, that many may go forth as did the early disciples, making their may to homes and to churches where men and women are waiting for a knowledge of present truth. My heart is sore when I see the blindness that is upon God’s people.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 19)
There are among our church members faithful souls who feel a burden for those who know not the truth for this time. But one will say to such, The conference will not support you if you go here or there. To such souls I would say, Pray to God for guidance as to where you shall go; follow the directions of the Holy Spirit, and go, whether the conference will pay your expenses or not. “Go work today in My vineyard,” Christ commands. [Matthew 21:28.] When you have done your work in one place, go to another. Angels of God will go with you if you follow the leadings of the Spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 20)
To our brethren and sisters in America, the call must go to awake. There is missionary work to be done in this country, as verily as in any heathen land. When you have made your donation for the work in foreign fields, do not stop, thinking you have done all your duty. You are to be a light in the world. “Let your light so shine, that men may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 21)
There is no time to spend in frivolity. Deny self, and dress and live simply. Remember that there is a message to be borne to those who are in darkness, a work to be done for the Master. The Lord will bless all who will take part in the work of preparing a people to meet Him in peace. We should be terribly in earnest. Lay your plans before God. Tell Him that you desire to serve Him; give up your desires to Him, and He will teach you His way.
(22LtMs, Lt 314, 1907, 22)
Lt 315, 1907
Ford, Brother “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California September 24, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Ford:
I received your letter stating that there has been a revival in the Nashville office, and that the blessing of the Lord came upon those who were seeking Him. I was much pleased with that letter. I hoped that the Lord had wrought for you in so thorough a manner that His converting power would be manifest in your life, and that you would carry forward the reformations that are essential. But the revelations that I have recently received show that your course of action needs yet to be reformed. In your treatment of some of your brethren, you have manifested not the Spirit of God, but the spirit of an unconverted man.
(22LtMs, Lt 315, 1907, 1)
My brother, a different spirit must come upon you than has influenced you in the past. There was a time when I was given a message to bear to my son Edson. It was a decided message, and I greatly feared at the time that he was so perplexed and overtaxed at that time, that he would not comprehend its importance. But the Lord blessed him with an understanding heart, and he received the word that God sent to him; he passed through the ordeal; and God has not left him.
(22LtMs, Lt 315, 1907, 2)
I am instructed to present to you these words of Paul, spoken by the Spirit, “I therefore the prisoner of the Lord beseech you to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called; with all lowliness and meekness, and long-suffering; forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace. There is one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling. One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” [Ephesians 4:1-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 315, 1907, 3)
My brother, you have a work to do in examining yourself and humbling your heart before God, and in keeping the way of the Lord. You are to purify your heart by obedience to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 315, 1907, 4)
Lt 316, 1907
Starr, Brother and Sister [G. B.] St. Helena, California October 1, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in Te 222. + Elder G. B. Starr
Bondi, Sydney, N.S.W., Australia Dear Brother and Sister Starr:
We thank you for writing. When you can do this, please write on the typewriter; we can read this so much more readily. But remember that we want your letters in any case.
(22LtMs, Lt 316, 1907, 1)
Last night I slept till three o’clock. Two nights ago I slept only till two; while a few nights before I did not sleep at all. I do not often sleep after four o’clock. I retire at seven or eight in the evening, and if I can sleep till four, I feel very thankful.
(22LtMs, Lt 316, 1907, 2)
I want to say to you, Brother and Sister Starr, that the time we have so long anticipated has come. A. T. Jones has come to the place where he voices the mind and faith of Dr. Kellogg. They have now taken a decided stand against the truth, and special efforts will be made to lead souls away.
(22LtMs, Lt 316, 1907, 3)
This apostasy has cost us dearly. We have had to have representatives of the truth to meet the falsehoods of these men. There has been need of constant watchfulness in order to refute their charges and to save the people. Warning after warning has been given to these men, but they have set themselves first to deny the messages, and then to declare that they did not believe the testimonies. Their work against the truth has been as marked by deception as was the course of Canright. Many whose sympathies were with Dr. Kellogg have united with him and have departed from the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 316, 1907, 4)
I pray that the Lord will give you wisdom and grace, Brother and Sister Starr. We must put our trust in Him as dependent little children. Work under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Seek every opportunity to enlighten and benefit the temperance workers. The temperance organization is one that I have ever respected. If you will be guided by the Holy Spirit, ways will open for you to work.
(22LtMs, Lt 316, 1907, 5)
A very dangerous element is coming into our ranks with the idea that certain workers are set to be mind and judgment for their brethren. God never intended this to be; for such a course leaves no freedom for the Spirit of God to work. I have some messages written concerning this danger, which I will send to you. The Lord does not send His servants to learn their duty of men who are as weak and erring as themselves. The invitation comes from one who cannot err, “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.” [James 1:5.] The Word of God is to be the guide of every worker. This is the only voice that it is safe for us to trust.
(22LtMs, Lt 316, 1907, 6)
Lt 317, 1907
Nashville Church “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California September 24, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 4MR 30-31. To the Nashville Church:
I was instructed that the church militant is not the church triumphant. The light of truth must shine to the ends of the earth. More and more light will come to the one who follows the light God sends. The one who truly represents the character of Christ will not be self-important in his bearing. Christ will be looked to as the Head of the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 317, 1907, 1)
A great work will be done through men who have a living connection with God; there will be an onward and upward movement. The attention of statesmen is being called to the condition of the colored people, and by some the national laws are being studied in the light of Bible requirements. Ere long we are to have a closer view of the conflict that is before us. The workers in our institutions, the members of our churches should now be cleansing from their lives every wrong principle, that they may be prepared to meet the emergency when it comes.
(22LtMs, Lt 317, 1907, 2)
I copy from (Testimonies for the Church 8:34): “The message must be given to the thousands of foreigners in these cities in the home field. I cannot understand why our people have so little burden to take up the work that the Lord has for years been keeping before me—the work of giving the message of present truth in the southern states. Few have felt that upon them rested the responsibility of taking hold of this work. Our people have failed to enter new territory and to work the cities in the South. Over and over again the Lord has presented the needs of this field, without any special results. I have sometimes felt that I could no longer bear the burden of this work. I thought that, if men should continue to neglect this work, I would let matters drift, and pray that the Lord would have mercy upon the ignorant and those who are out of the way.”
(22LtMs, Lt 317, 1907, 3)
The cities of the South have been long neglected. Light that has been given me in the past has been repeated, concerning the work to be done in New Orleans, in Memphis, and other cities. Yet how little has been done. I encouraged Brother Washburn to feel that if the call came for him to engage in ministerial work for these needy cities, he should regard it as the call of the Lord to him.
(22LtMs, Lt 317, 1907, 4)
Brother Staines has purchased land near to Nashville, where he is erecting a school for the colored people. This will answer the present needs until the way is made more plain. It would not be wise to start too many enterprises at one time, and then find ourselves unable to carry them successfully. The Huntsville school must be finished, and students from that place fitted to take hold of the work of educating their own people.
(22LtMs, Lt 317, 1907, 5)
It is not merely the American people, but those of other nationalities who must be reached. The Lord has laid responsibilities on all who know the truth to work for those who are out of the way. Volunteers should be called for who will go forth and by practical work get an education that will make them true missionaries. Christ sent out His disciples two and two; and as they labored for the spiritual uplifting of the people, their own temporal necessities were supplied. Those who go forth to labor in Christ’s name in these days will be provided for by the same power. Let none, by word or act, hedge up the way of any who desire to go forth into the field. The Lord has a controversy with His people, because, with all the light they have had, with all the messages of warning and encouragement, they have not done one-hundredth part of the work that God expected of them.
(22LtMs, Lt 317, 1907, 6)
The Lord will not be satisfied with anything short of entire consecration. He expects those who claim to be His children to come out from the world and be separate—separate in their principles, in their characters, in their pursuits. True children of the heavenly King will never condescend to take advantage of a brother. Why should they, when they have such prospects for the future held out before them!
(22LtMs, Lt 317, 1907, 7)
Lt 318, 1907
Olsen, O. A. St. Helena, California October 8, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 290. Elder O. A. Olsen
Strathfield, Sydney, Australia Dear Brother:
I would be pleased to be able to converse with you and Brother Starr.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 1)
We see a large work needing to be done in every place. I am greatly burdened for our churches. It is no time now to let worldliness and pride and display come into our ranks to bear testimony against us. The Word of God is to be our educator. The Lord has also given us the testimonies of His Holy Spirit to guide us in the work of these last days.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 2)
We are to be tested and proved. But when the Lord permits trials to come, we are ever to remember that Christ is with us as surely as He journeyed with the armies of Israel. In a pillar of cloud He shaded them by day, that the fierce rays of the sun might not strike them. He led them in the night by a pillar of fire.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 3)
“And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin after their journeys, according to the commandment of the Lord, and pitched in Rephidim, and there was no water.” [Exodus 17:1.] Read the history of the Israelites at this time. Their experiences are recorded that we may learn their lessons. The Lord brought this undisciplined people from their condition of slavery and led them through the varied experiences of the wilderness wandering. For their own good He brought them to difficult places, that He might reveal to them His power to deliver, and that they might learn to know the merciful and wonderful ways of the Lord. They were to learn His will concerning them.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 4)
My brother, those who have a part to act in our sanitarium work should seek the Lord in earnest faith. We are now in the closing work of this earth’s history. There is not a moment’s time to give to doubting. Let your faith increase. However discouraging appearances may be, believe that the Lord will work in behalf of His people and His cause.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 5)
I believe that Brother and Sister Starr should now come in to unite with the sanitarium work at Wahroonga. It would not have been best for them to do this before; for had they done so, the deficiency which is now revealed would have reflected upon them. This would have placed Brother and Sister Starr at a disadvantage. Now if they can come in to help, there will be no cause for any to say that they were forward in taking the responsibilities, and that their efforts were not appreciated.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 6)
I have counsel to give regarding those who have accepted the responsibilities at the Wahroonga Sanitarium. They should educate themselves to become efficient. Those who are outside the institution are quick to discern a lack of adaptability or discipline. Everything in connection with the work there should be in harmony with good management. The religion of Jesus Christ must be an apparent quality in the lives of the workers. They must know Christ; and to know Him, they must know His love. They must have an intelligent understanding of the pattern that Christ came into the world to give. Their fitness as sanitarium workers should be measured by their ability to love as Christ loved, and to work as He worked. The whole man must be sanctified, purified, refined, ennobled. As the Lord’s representatives, no cheapness is to be revealed in words or works.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 7)
When Christ is formed within, the hope of glory, right lines of work will be taken hold of. The worker will realize that he is the representative of Christ, and that words and works and thoughts are to be such as can meet the approval of God. The worker who reveals a right spirit and consistent behavior under trying circumstances is proving his adaptability for his work. He is qualifying himself to meet all kinds of minds and to be a true representative of the Master worker.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 8)
Everyone who comes to the sanitarium should have careful attention. Reforms need to be made by the patients, and the workers who are brought in contact with them are to encourage them by treating them with kindness and tenderness and the gentleness of Christ. Christ our Saviour was a man of tenderest sympathies; He was susceptible to the needs of all with whom He came in contact, and who were in need of His help. O that the mind that was in Christ Jesus dwelt in our workers today.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 9)
Christ was a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief. In presenting the Word, dwell on His susceptibility to the griefs and sorrows of men. Present before those who have spoiled their lives by self-indulgence, and who are impatient and fretful, the beauty of Christ’s life from the manger to the cross. His lovely character is the pattern for every human soul. Christ was a perfect instructor. Those who will become acquainted with His teachings will learn to exercise right feelings and to manifest His Spirit in dealing with souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 10)
We need to have a broader view of the Saviour as “Lord and Christ.” [Acts 2:36.] “All power” is given to Him to give to those who claim to believe in His name. [Matthew 28:18.] We do not half acknowledge His right to our homage and obedience and to our increasing faith in Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 11)
We need to understand the depth of significance there is in the words of the apostle, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, and not on things on the earth; for ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory....
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 12)
“Put on therefore as the elect of God, holy and beloved,” the apostle continues, “bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another; if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 13)
“And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which ye are called in one body, and be ye thankful. Let the word of God dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs; singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” [Colossians 3:1-4, 12-17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 14)
This is the work that is to be carried on in every sanitarium established among us. We need to have our whole religious experience molded to the divine similitude. These words were given to me for all who meet together in church capacity, but they apply especially to the sanitarium workers. There is a great work to be done in our churches and in our schools in coming up to a higher plan of action. We are not ready to meet the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 15)
Men who are placed in offices of responsibility are not to consider that their position gives them the right to rule over men and women who are working under the direction of the Holy Spirit. I am bidden to say to every soul, Put yourself under discipline to Christ. Be led by His Word. Heed His instruction, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 16)
I beseech the churches in every place to make thorough work for eternity by confession and putting away of sins. “His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.” By what means? “Through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” [2 Peter 1:3.] “We all with open face, beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory.” [2 Corinthians 3:18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 17)
God and Christ alone know what the souls of men have cost. For our sakes the Son of God became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich with eternal riches. His love is without a parallel. It has bought for us immeasurable grace. By the sacrifice of Christ for us, the richest gifts of heaven are offered us. Then let us break every yoke but that of Christ. In our sanitarium and school work, let us come up on a higher platform. Let us look unto Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith. Let us pray in faith for large measure of the Holy Spirit. “And this I pray, that your love may abound more and more in knowledge, and in all judgment.” [Philippians 1:9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 18)
As I consider the great work that needs to be done for those who profess to believe the truth, I cannot rest. Brethren, shall we not pray more, and criticize less? Shall we not make thorough work for eternity?
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 19)
I can write no more, for the mail must leave very soon. I pray that God will bless you all in Australia.
(22LtMs, Lt 318, 1907, 20)
Lt 320, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California October 4, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder Haskell and Wife:
I have been very busy all the time since I have been at home. I think it is now time for you to begin work again in Southern California. Elder Reaser seems to be greatly pleased that he has nearly cleared the school in Fernando from debt. He has tried his ruling power upon Elder Burden, but he is not the man that can submit to be ruled. He is a man that will be steadfast and will serve the Lord with all humility of mind. I have been hoping that you would be present at our meeting to be held in Los Angeles the last of this month.
(22LtMs, Lt 320, 1907, 1)
Cannot you manage to arrange with Brother Henry Kellogg, who is dealing in presses, to obtain a small press to be operated in an inexpensive way at Loma Linda, that in our important meetings the subjects can be copied on hand presses and the sermons and lessons given distributed? This would fasten matters in the minds of the hearers. I wish you could talk with Brother Henry Kellogg and see if he cannot advise you in this matter. We need something of this order.
(22LtMs, Lt 320, 1907, 2)
I would like you to make your way to Los Angeles just as soon as possible. I think you are needed here on the field of battle. All we have to do is to keep the aggressive, not to take the objective arguments and present them. I want to see you in the work here. Sister Starr is having a large work to do in temperance lines, and she is called for and the people are enthusiastic.
(22LtMs, Lt 320, 1907, 3)
We receive your letters with gladness, but we want you in Southern California. When are you coming?
(22LtMs, Lt 320, 1907, 4)
Lt 322, 1907
Officers of the General Conference St. Helena, California October 2, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 2MR 76-78. To the officers of the General Conference:
Last night in my sleeping hours I seemed to be speaking to the workers at Takoma Park, Washington. I was speaking in regard to the buildings that it may be considered necessary to erect there. The beginning of work on every such building should be regarded as an occasion for seeking the special guidance of the Holy Spirit. Before you begin the work, ask that the Holy Spirit of God may give you a clear understanding of what should be done, and how to do it in the least expensive way. Our people have been drawn upon heavily for the work in Washington. Every dollar should be used to carry on the work in a way that will conform to the faith that we profess.
(22LtMs, Lt 322, 1907, 1)
Light has been given me that believers should now arouse themselves to make earnest efforts for the advance of the work in the southern states. Because of past neglect, the work in this field has been almost at a standstill; and we shall have no excuse to render for this neglect in the day when God shall call all our works into judgment.
(22LtMs, Lt 322, 1907, 2)
Means must now be gathered from the various churches for the help of the colored people in the South. This is a work that should have been done years ago. Let us now do all in our power to redeem the past neglect. Calls are coming in for schoolhouses to be built, and meetinghouses where the colored people can assemble for worship. It is right to solicit means for this purpose, and to erect buildings that are proportionate in size and equipment to the needs of the place where they are established.
(22LtMs, Lt 322, 1907, 3)
The book Christ’s Object Lessons might have had a wide circulation in the South for the benefit of the southern schools. But instead of this enterprise being energetically pushed, territorial rights have been contended for, and the field has been left unworked. It is true that organization and method must be maintained in the various lines of our work; but because undue importance has been attached to territorial claims, many have been deprived of the instruction that this precious book contains. My brethren, let these books be circulated in every possible place. “Faith without works is dead.” [James 2:26.] Who will now engage in this work with a true missionary spirit? Who will study to bring in ingenious methods by which this book may be brought before all classes?
(22LtMs, Lt 322, 1907, 4)
At our large gatherings, men of wisdom and experience should be chosen to present Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing before the people, and to call for those who will take a part in circulating them. If this plan had been faithfully followed in the past, we might now have humble houses of worship and schools in many places, where the colored people would be receiving an education in the principles of present truth. These schools and meetinghouses are the Lord’s agencies for the promulgation of His truth in the South, and to prepare a people for the coming of Christ. The colored people themselves, with a wise planner at their head, will do much toward the erection of these buildings.
(22LtMs, Lt 322, 1907, 5)
The land at Huntsville was a donation from our people to the colored work. A much broader work would have been accomplished there had our people moved forward in faith and self-denial. It was God’s design that Huntsville should have convenient school buildings and a sanitarium for the colored people. This sanitarium building has become a positive necessity. Some of the brethren have been free to give their advice concerning this institution, saying that it should be “a small sanitarium.” The advice I have had to give has been that we should have a modest but roomy sanitarium where the sick can be taken in and treated. The colored race should have the benefits of such an institution as verily as should the white people. In this sanitarium colored nurses are to be trained for service in the field as gospel medical missionaries.
(22LtMs, Lt 322, 1907, 6)
The Lord is calling for converted workers who will act as faithful ministers and teachers to the colored people. We need less of commercial enterprises and more church buildings and missionaries. Let us be very guarded in the use of means, that money may not be used largely in a few places, when there are so many places that the missionary must enter with the last message of warning.
(22LtMs, Lt 322, 1907, 7)
Lt 324, 1907
Reaser, G. W. St. Helena, California October 3, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 414-417. + Elder Reaser
257 South Hills Street
Los Angeles, California My Brother:
I have read your letters, but cannot possibly answer them fully now. You would misunderstand me if should write. If I attend the Los Angeles meeting, I can then communicate to you and to others. I have much to say. Until then make no decided moves.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 1)
In the last few days I have written many letters to Australia, to Washington, and to other places. Not all that I have written has been sent. I am not able to sleep for the burdens I carry for the many places where souls are in peril. The cases of some have been especially urged upon me. Satan is playing the game of life for their souls. I cannot let them make decisions that will place them in the power of satanic agencies. By giving them a plain and decided message, God may use my words to save them.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 2)
For a long time I have seen the danger that was coming into our ranks in the tendency to look to human wisdom and to depend on human guidance. This will always prove a snare to souls, and I am bidden to lift the danger signal, warning my fellow-workers against it, and pointing them to the Lord Jesus. The man or woman who leans upon the wisdom of the human mind, leans on a broken reed. I am instructed to point those who are in need of wisdom to the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. “He was in the world, and the world was made by Him; and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:10-12.] “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed; for let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.... Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him.” [James 1:5-8, 12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 3)
“Ask, and it shall be given you,” the Saviour declared; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you; for everyone that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there, if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him? Therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 4)
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be that go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:7-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 5)
Never should a worker encourage one who is in need of instruction and help to go first to human agencies for an understanding of his duty. It is our privilege as laborers to pray together and to counsel together; but we are individually to seek God to know what He would have us do. When the Lord impresses the mind of one of His servants that he is to go to a certain place to labor, that man is not under obligation to go to a human being to know if it is right for him to do this.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 6)
It is a wrong education to teach our people to lean on human aids, instead of going to the Lord in prayer. The enemy of souls has been the instigator of this, that minds might become obscured. The people are now to be instructed differently. God’s people are to meet together in counsel, but no leader or worker is to take the position that God’s children are to make no move until he is first consulted. Those who bear responsibilities in the work are to co-operate with heavenly angels in teaching men and women to look to God as the source of their strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 7)
“Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness, when your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do always err in their heart; and they have not known My ways. So I sware in My wrath, They shall not enter into My rest.) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end; while it is said, Today, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was He grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness? And with whom sware He that they should not enter into His rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.” [Hebrews 3:7-19.]
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 8)
“God who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things; by whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high. Being made so much better than the angels, as He hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.... But to which of the angels said He at any time, Sit on My right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister unto them that shall be heirs of salvation?” [Hebrews 1:1-4, 13, 14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 9)
The ministration of Christ is ever to be kept before the minds of the people; His efficiency is that to which they should ever be directed. Ministers in word and doctrine are not to seek in human wisdom to supply the necessities of these souls; they are not to direct and guide. By doing this they educate the flock of God to depend on human beings who are liable to err. “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith nothing wavering.” [James 1:5, 6.] Here is marked out a straight path to the world’s Redeemer, which every soul may take. Christ tasted death that every man might be partaker of the blessings of the gospel. Then let all, experienced and inexperienced, be directed to the source of all efficiency and power. Christ has promised to be our wisdom, our righteousness, our sanctification and redemption.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 10)
Elder Reaser, my message to you is, Consecrate yourself to the Lord Jesus Christ. Seek the One who understands your every weakness and who never makes a mistake. He is able to impart to you His rich grace. Looking unto Jesus, studying His Word, learn to humble your soul before God and to wrestle with Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 11)
It is not the position you may hold in the work that determines your efficiency. A high position will not change the character or increase the moral worth. It is written, “Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; Thou crownedst him with glory and honor, and didst set him over the works of Thine hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that He put all things in subjection under him, He left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, crowned with glory and honor; that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He that sanctifieth and they that are sanctified, are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, I will declare Thy name unto My brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee.” [Hebrews 2:7-12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 12)
The all-sufficiency of the Saviour is brought to view in this Scripture. He experienced in His human nature all that we can possibly experience. Taking our nature, and in the strength that His humanity received from God, He coped successfully with the powers of Satan and fallen angels. He bids His servants learn of Him. “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden,” He invites, “and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Learn of Christ. As you study His personal life, and practice His works, you will find rest to your soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 13)
I am bidden to say to every professing child of God, Go not to human agencies to learn your duty. Take your case to the One who has tasted death for every man. “In all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered, being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 2:17, 18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 14)
The worker who considers himself in a position of such high responsibility, that he allows the members of the churches to look to him to voice their decisions and control their actions, is educating men and women to wear a human yoke. They are not learning of the divine Teacher. To the one who is being led to have such an experience, I would say, Go to Christ; ask Him to give you an experience; learn to emulate His faultless character, and do not look for experience or guidance to any human being, who is as liable to err as yourself.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 15)
There are reasons why we should not put our trust in men who are placed in positions of large responsibility. It is often difficult for them to maintain a humble and teachable spirit. They suppose that their position gives them the power to control their fellows, and they flatter themselves, as did Peter, that they will not fall under temptation. When in the hour of His trial Christ declared to His disciples that they would all forsake Him, Peter answered, “Lord, why cannot I follow Thee now? I will lay down my life for Thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for My sake? Verily, verily I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow till thou hast denied Me thrice.” [John 13:37, 38.] Throughout His trial Christ preserved His humility. Peter’s self-confident assertion was tested, and he failed to endure the test. He denied his Lord in the hour of temptation.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 16)
I am instructed to present these words before the workers in Los Angeles and at Paradise Valley. Man is not to be depended on as a model in speech or in plans. If it is possible, there should be chosen to fill the responsible positions in a conference men who will not lead others to depend upon them, but who will lead all to make the life of Christ their study and their pattern. Christ ever manifested a heavenly courtesy in dealing with human souls. His life was a life of constant self-denial and self-sacrifice. Those who are numbered with the overcomers will be those who have practiced the virtues of Christ. My heart has been made sick and sore when I have seen the example set by those who have loved to dictate and control; and I have said, If this wrong continues in spite of the warnings that have been given, I shall have no courage regarding their meeting successfully the great conflict that is before us.
(22LtMs, Lt 324, 1907, 17)
Lt 326, 1907
Wessels, Brother and Sister [J. J.] St. Helena, California September 25, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mr. J. J. Wessels
Paradise Valley Sanitarium
National City, California Dear Brother and Sister Wessels:
I sincerely hope that you will not become discouraged. There are some things that we cannot now comprehend; but the Lord will help us to understand them sometime. The Lord is trying and testing you. Do not become discouraged under trial. You have not always stood the test, but the Lord is seeking to give you an experience that will be of value to you in your future work.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 1)
I have been over this ground so many times, both during my husband’s lifetime and since then, that I have learned to understand the meaning of God’s dealings with His people. He sends these experiences to us because [He has] lessons to teach us that we have not yet learned. It is our privilege under trial to be beautified by patience and to learn to devote all our affections and powers to God. He understands our weaknesses, and He will not suffer us to be tempted above that we are able to bear. In our experiences in the message, my husband and I learned to devote all our powers to God and to leave the results with Him. We learned the lesson of trust in God.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 2)
The church of God is passing through a time of severe trial. Some are departing from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. We have not been left in darkness that this time should come upon us unawares. Christ gave us warning of it, that when it should come, His people might realize that the Lord understands all about their experiences and be comforted with the assurance that He will not leave them to the will of the enemy.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 3)
The Lord has been proving many who have failed of enduring the test and have been led from the truth. We have abundant evidence that the Lord is training and disciplining His people; if they will submit to His schooling, He will enable them to work out an experience that will be more precious than gold or precious stones. The Lord is proving you, Brother Wessels. You are bearing the test nobly; do not fail or be discouraged.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 4)
Christ is to be the life of the believer; His life is to be repeated in the Christian. Christ was a manifestation of the Father. The knowledge and glory of God was revealed in the face of Jesus Christ. Let us behold His character by studying His Word and be changed into His divine likeness.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 5)
I have had some very definite things presented to me in reference to the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Propositions will be made by some that will reveal that those who made them do not comprehend the work that is to be done by that institution. The incompetency of some of the physicians who have been connected with the Paradise Valley Sanitarium has caused discouragement to the work there.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 6)
All who have a part in the closing work of God will have trials and perplexities to meet. Let us meet them in the grace of Christ, and they will be the means of fitting us to inhabit the mansions the Lord has gone to prepare for them that love Him. O why do we not appreciate more than we do the excellence there is for us in Christ Jesus.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 7)
My prayer for our workers in our sanitariums is that they may stand on high and sacred ground. Those who engage to act a part in sanitarium work pledge themselves to be missionaries in the highest sense of the word. They are so to live that their influence will gather souls to see and partake of Christ’s excellent glory. There are precious lessons to be learned at the feet of Jesus. O that all our workers might learn the lesson of close fellowship with the Father and the Son.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 8)
Through the work of our sanitariums, if it is done in the fear and love of God, a class of people will be reached with the present truth who could be reached in no other way. Through these institutions many souls are to become acquainted with the precious truths of the Word of God. I earnestly desire that physicians and ministers, nurses and helpers shall sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him how to reveal the grace of Christ in the character. Let our religion be a pure religion. I greatly desire to see this sanitarium, which has cost us so many burdens, running prosperously and fulfilling the mission for which it was established.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 9)
May the Lord bless you, my brother and sister. I shall hope to see you at the meeting at Los Angeles. Love to you all.
(22LtMs, Lt 326, 1907, 10)
Lt 328, 1907
Daniells, A. G.; Palmer, E. R. St. Helena, California September 26, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 13MR 387-389. + Elder A. G. Daniells and E. R. Palmer
Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. Dear Brethren:
I have words to speak to you. You must be guarded in your plans, for you are in danger of centralizing. If you should follow your natural dispositions, there would be a tendency to so arrange the publishing work that the majority of our books would bear the imprint of Washington. The danger of such a course compels me to speak.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 1)
It is not the Lord’s plan to centralize largely in any one place. The time has passed when there should be any binding about of the work and confining it to a few places. There are small printing plants to be established and recognized in the South and in other places not yet designated.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 2)
The work of publication is to be developed in new lines and carried as it has never yet been carried. Wherever our large meetings are held, leaflets should be printed reporting the discourses given, and these leaflets should be widely circulated. I have been shown that we are not doing all that we should do for the spread of the knowledge of the present truth. If we will be guided by the Holy Spirit, the Lord will open to us many ways in which the truth may be made to shine brightly before the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 3)
Light has been given me that in connection with our large meetings in cities, we should secure a printing press, small, but one that will do the work required, and that the discourses given should be reported and printed in one form or another and given an extensive circulation. These leaflets can often be sold. This work should be done in Los Angeles, Redlands, and in the southern states. Any plans that would bind about or limit this work are not in the Lord’s order.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 4)
From the light that I have, our people should have a small printing press in Loma Linda; and when the work of holding meetings begins, the discourses could be printed. The blessing of the Lord will attend the placing of these printed discourses in the hands of those who know not the reasons of our faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 5)
Everything that can be devised will be devised to hinder the work to be done in the southern states. Let us not put any hindering hands on those of God’s workers who are seeking to accomplish a work for the people in that field. The Lord has laid no such burden as this on any of His people. Let us not devote our talents to hindering the work by our criticism, but let us seek to advance the work in every line possible.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 6)
We greatly desire that the donations that shall come in for the work in the South shall be wisely used for the establishment of schools and the erection of meetinghouses in the places where they are most urgently needed. No extravagant buildings are to be erected, no extravagant charges made; for this will close the field.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 7)
Wherever it is possible, facilities should be provided for these schools, that the students may learn to care for the sick, to give simple treatments, and to get an understanding of the art of simple, healthful cooking.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 8)
If this instruction in healthful cooking were given in connection with our schools, it would not be necessary to have many restaurants, or so many laborers employed in the work of food manufacture and sale.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 9)
The blessing of the Lord will rest upon those who learn to prepare healthful foods in a simple manner, and who teach others how to cook healthfully.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 10)
I have been shown that many who are now employed in our food factories should be out in the field giving instruction to our people in how to cook in a simple and healthful manner.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 11)
I am sorry that it should be thought necessary to delay the work in some places because of territorial lines, and that it should be considered irregular for the workers to sell books in certain territories where the field is neglected. This has held back the sale of our books. Changes should be made regarding this condition. If territory that is claimed by a certain conference is not faithfully worked for the circulation of our literature, those workers who have a burden for that territory should not be forbidden the privilege of laboring there.
(22LtMs, Lt 328, 1907, 12)
Lt 330, 1907
Workers in Nashville St. Helena, California October 5, 1907 Previously unpublished. To the workers in Nashville:
The Lord has given me this message for the workers in and about Nashville: Unify, unify. Study the light that God has given, and let every ray of light received shine forth to the thousands around you in the southern field. From the printing office and from the sanitarium let light go forth that will lead men and women from error and ignorance to a knowledge of God and His salvation.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 1)
There has been so little of earnest effort made to have the presence of Christ among the workers in the Nashville publishing house, so great a lack of true consecration, that the Holy Spirit could not preside there. The responsibility resting upon the managers of our large publishing houses is very great. Brother Ford is not well qualified to fill the position he occupies. There is need that his character be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit. If not, he will deal selfishly. Let the managers of our publishing houses be thoroughly converted men or find some other line of work to do.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 2)
He who occupies the position of manager in such an institution as the Southern Publishing Association is to be an educational power; he should be a man who will not weave into his management any thread of selfishness. The character of Christ is to be revealed in the example he sets before the workers. Before he takes any new step, he will ask himself the question, “Is this the way of the Lord?”
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 3)
It is time now for every worker in the office to seek the Lord with full purpose of heart. It is not a time to work for selfish ends. In their characters the workers are to glorify God and honor His truth. They are to study His plans and learn to walk in His ways. Every power of mind and body is to be brought into harmony with the laws He has given, that the influence that is exerted before believers and unbelievers may be such that His name will be honored. We have an exalted truth, and it is to be revealed in supreme love for God and unselfish love for our neighbors. The Lord desires His truth through us to stand out before unbelievers in all its grace and purity and glory, so that no evil testimony shall be truthfully borne against those who believe in it.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 4)
There is grave danger in the spirit that has been manifested to gain advantage of believers and unbelievers. Its manifestation will develop the same spirit in the workers, teaching them to take advantage in matters pertaining to their work in the office. This spirit will not bear the test of the principles laid down in the Word of God, and its presence rings His rebuke upon the office. Christ is our pattern. He was sent into the world to be an example of what every son and daughter of God must be. The workers in our printing offices, in our sanitariums and schools are to work together in harmony and disinterestedly for the advancement of God’s work in every line. True, clean principles are to mark their actions.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 5)
I have been shown that all our labors in connection with the interests of the cause of God should bear a holy impress. Our eyes are to be anointed with heavenly eyesalve, that we may have righteous perceptions; and the strength of our affections is to be given to God. It is not a cheap religious experience that God requires of the workers in the office of publication, but hearts truly converted and powers sanctified to His service. God is dishonored when those who profess to serve Him do not keep the way of the Lord to do justice and judgment.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 6)
Some of the workers who are connected with the office in Nashville have acted as though under a spell. Some have nearly lost the sanctification of the truth out of their hearts, and their actions have been marked by unrighteousness. God will not justify one action that is born of selfishness. He is dishonored unless love for truth and for those who know not the truth become a part of our being. I am burdened and distressed when I see how easily men in positions of trust, men who have pledged themselves by holy vows to be true to God are led into forbidden paths.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 7)
No man should be placed in official position who has not learned to exercise the tenderness of Christ in dealing with his brethren. Whatever our business in this world, our first business is to be lights in the world. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] Light is to shine from Christ to His followers, and from them to the world in good works. Those who appreciate true goodness will be conscious of its power.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 8)
It is true conversion, an entire transformation, that God is now demanding of His workers. Long time has He been dishonored, and no permanent reformation has changed the spiritual atmosphere. But thorough work is now to be done; there is to be a coming up on a higher spiritual platform. There must be given to the world a revelation of the power of the truth to sanctify. God is known only through the Son and through Him to whom the Son shall reveal Him. The knowledge of the glory of God was revealed in the life of Jesus Christ. The believer is to be recognized as a laborer together with God. Never is he to exalt self. He is to firmly refuse to enter into any plan by which he would gain an unfair advantage of another. He is not to seek success by following worldly policies. God requires of the Christian a higher order of action than this. The Word of the Lord is to be his wisdom, his righteousness, his sanctification, and his redemption.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 9)
Our power for usefulness in the work of God comes from Him who sacrificed Himself that He might restore man from the degradation of sin. He, the Prince of heaven, laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and came to the world as a human child. He clothed His divinity with the garb of humanity, that humanity might embrace humanity, and make it possible for the human family to become partakers of the divine nature, and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. And the sufferings Christ endured in behalf of humanity He endured willingly, that man might be reconciled to God. Christ’s greatest earthly joy was in a clear perception of His mission and in His power to fulfil that mission. By subordinating His mind and will to the will of His Father, Christ sustained the closest fellowship with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 10)
The soul who contemplates the sufferings of Christ, endured that man might become partaker of the divine nature, will appreciate redeeming love. And when that soul learns to manifest the love for men that Christ’s sacrifice revealed, the richest, purest joys of the plan of redemption will be realized. His gratitude, his sanctified life, his eagerness to serve will make plain to others that he is a partaker of Christ’s nature. Such a man will never be covetous or grasping nor will selfishly strive for personal advantage. Every temptation will cause him to press closer to the side of the One who has promised, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 11)
My fellow workers, lay yourselves, with all the powers and affections of mind and heart, upon the altar of God to do His will. Then, converted in principle, appropriating the abundant grace that Christ has provided, you will learn to reflect His light by working out His character in your own lives.
(22LtMs, Lt 330, 1907, 12)
Lt 332, 1907
Workers in Nashville St. Helena, California October 9, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 6BC 1084; 7MR 272-273. + To the workers in Nashville:
Last night I was awakened at one o’clock in great distress of mind. I was burdened to know how to present to our people their true condition of unreadiness to meet the issues that are before us, and which will try every soul to the uttermost. Many are not patterning after Christ, but are acting like men and women of the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 1)
After a time I slept, and in my dreams I seemed to be listening to One who was bearing testimony before our brethren in responsible positions. The words He spoke were so decided and straight that it seemed as if His representations could not be true of all present. Some were deeply moved, while others were deeply mortified that their course of action should be presented as it was. This latter class had not a right comprehension of true religion. They had not been drinking deep draughts from the fountain of Christ’s sympathy and tenderness and love. They had a low estimate of what the Christian life should be, and they were hurt and offended at the word spoken.
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 2)
I saw that the workers in the cause need now to be wide-awake. Many need to be converted anew and rebaptized. When they learn to drink of the Spiritual Rock which followed the army of Israel in the wilderness, when they partake daily of the heavenly manna, how their experience will change! What the food we eat is to our physical needs, Christ is to our spiritual necessities. He is the Bread of life. “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood,” Christ declared, “ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth His flesh and drinketh His blood, hath eternal life.” [John 6:53, 54.] When Christ is formed within the soul, His presence will be as a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life.
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 3)
The apostle Paul writes: “I brethren, when I came unto you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ and Him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the fear of God.” [1 Corinthians 2:1-5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 4)
Paul was not an unlearned man, but the preaching of Christ was a new gospel to him. It was a work entirely different [from] that he had engaged in when he hunted the believers from place to place, and persecuted them even “unto the death.” [Acts 22:4.] But Christ had revealed Himself to Paul in a remarkable manner at his conversion. At the gate of Damascus the vision of the Crucified One changed the whole current of his life. The persecutor became a disciple, the teacher a learner.
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 5)
From that time, Paul was a truly converted man. God gave him a special work to do for the cause of Christianity. His instruction in his letters to the churches of his day is instruction for the church of God to the end of time. He writes: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, and not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear; then shall ye also appear with Him in glory.” [Colossians 3:1-4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 6)
The apostle enumerates the evils that must be put away from the life of those who have risen to walk in newness of life: “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry; for which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: in the which ye also walked sometime, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him.” [Verses 5-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 7)
These warnings are given because they are needed. Our workers need to consider them; for some who have a part in the work have given place to some of the evils here enumerated. These wrongs are to be sternly and determinedly resisted and cleansed from the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 8)
The apostle continues: “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you; so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 9)
“Let the word of God dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 10)
“And whatsoever ye do, in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” [Verses 12-17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 332, 1907, 11)
Lt 334, 1907
Workman, Mabel White St. Helena, California October 17, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mrs. W. Workman
Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. Dear Granddaughter Mabel:
I was pleased to read your interesting letter. I am also pleased to know that you are interested in your work, and that you feel that you are in the right place. If your religious life is constantly sustained by looking to the Author and Finisher of our faith, God will give you a rich experience in many ways. It is your privilege, by exercising daily trust in Christ, to follow on to know the Lord. I know that a true discerning of Christ will lead to a true confiding in Him. You may have comfort and courage and hope in your blessed Redeemer.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 1)
I am very glad to have you where you are. If you encourage faith, your courage will never fail. We need to contemplate the matchless love of Christ revealed for us. When we realize that we are bought with a price, we will ever seek to honor and glorify God by faithfully doing His will. I hope and pray that you may be a blessing where you are, as well as being blessed.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 2)
I would be pleased to be with you, and to ride with you in the parks. We are having no rain as yet. The weather is not cold. I have not yet kindled a fire in my room.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 3)
I am writing largely every day; for I know not how soon I may be called to lay off the armor. Last night I could not sleep after twelve o’clock. I arose and dressed at one o’clock and began to write. There are so many things I wish to communicate to our people that will be a blessing to them and through them to others. But I find that I will have to write less than I am doing; for such constant work is an injury to my eyes.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 4)
I am much interested in the work at Takoma Park. The Lord has wonderfully provided for His people in that place, that they may let the light shine forth. I praise the Lord for His love and His abounding goodness to His redeemed heritage. I pray that the workers there may be constantly receiving strength—physical, mental, and moral—for the work they have to do. The Lord has promised to be the portion and everlasting reward of His people. We greatly desire that the workers at Washington shall practice the self-denial of Christ. I pray that you and your husband will set an example of simplicity that will be a lesson to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 5)
I am so glad that Jesus lives to make intercession for us. Christ loved us and gave Himself for us. Think of His great sacrifice in coming to the world in shame and poverty to meet us where we are. O that all who know of His love would bring it home to their souls. We need to walk and work in self-denial and humility of mind. The Lord has a mansion prepared for those who love and serve Him in a spirit of self-sacrifice.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 6)
When Christ came to the time of His great trial, His thoughts were not for Himself, but for the disciples whom He was to leave in the world to meet its trials and conflicts. “Little children,” He said to them, “yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek Me, and as I said unto the Jews, whither I go ye cannot come; so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:33-35.] “As I have loved you,” the Saviour said. The fulness of that love was yet to be demonstrated in His sufferings and cruel death at the hands of men who hated Him because His piety and grace revealed their own great lack.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 7)
“Peter said unto Him, Lord, whither goest Thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow Me now; but thou shalt follow Me afterwards. Peter said unto Him, Lord, why cannot I follow Thee now? I will lay down my life for Thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for My sake? Verily, verily I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied Me thrice.” [Verses 36-38.]
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 8)
Seeing them in sorrow and perplexity, the Saviour continued: “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:1-3.] Read the whole of this fourteenth chapter of John. It is full of instruction for the followers of Christ, instruction that only the Son of God could give.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 9)
My dear grandchildren, I beseech you for Christ’s sake to be of good courage. You will have many things to try you, but keep the Pattern ever before you. Be careful to speak no words that you would afterwards regret. Manifest patience in words and deportment; this will make you a blessing to others. I am very desirous that your lives shall reveal the grace of Christ, and that you will be continually learning how to do His will.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 10)
“Verily, verily I say unto you,” Christ said, “he that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also.” This is possible, but we are further assured, “And greater works than these shall ye do, because I go unto the Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye will ask anything in My name, I will do it.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 11)
“If ye love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever: even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him. But ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more; but ye see Me: because I live, ye shall live also.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 12)
“At that day, ye shall know that I am in the Father, and ye in Me, and I in you. He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father: and I will love him, and will manifest Myself unto him.” [Verses 12-21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 13)
I write thus fully because I greatly desire that you lives may be, not a pretense, but a living representation of Jesus Christ. You can both be a blessing where you are. If the head worker speaks abruptly, do not retaliate. He is a hard worker, and his words do not always reveal the grace of patience. Do not become offended, Wilfred, but give an example of patience and forbearance that will be an education to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 14)
Consider the estimate that Christ places upon those who follow His example: “Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is heaven.” [Matthew 5:13-16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 15)
These are wonderful lessons for us. Study them carefully and profit by their precious instruction. You both may be dear children of God. Christ loved you and gave His life for your salvation. Keep your eyes fixed on the city of God where the Prince of heaven will one day welcome His faithful ones. Think of His looking down upon our world and watching with earnest desire those who are striving to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. When His work on earth is finished, He will welcome the righteous to the mansions He has prepared and place on their heads the crown of the overcomer.
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 16)
“I Jesus have sent Mine angel to testify these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come; and let him that is athirst come; and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:16, 17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 334, 1907, 17)
Lt 336, 1907
Hopkins, Hannah E. Sawyer St. Helena, California October 17, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 6Bio 135. Mrs. H. E. Sawyer-Hopkins
685 Elnora Street, cor. 6th
Pomona, California Dear Sister Hopkins:
I have just read your letter and now respond. We are in need of this very sum. Sister McDearmon entrusted to me the charge of three hundred dollars for the southern field. Now the same must be passed over to that field, as it is called for. Therefore if you return this money just now, I shall not have to hire of the bank. This must be sent to the South at once; so you may return to me your trust, which I will gratefully receive back until you call for it. We are being drawn upon just now, and I do not wait at all. At the same time your money was called for, I had another similar call for a similar sum.
(22LtMs, Lt 336, 1907, 1)
I would be very glad to advise you; but as I am not on the ground, I would not draw a bow at a venture. One thing I would advise; if you purchase, get a home built, if you can, for the time of building and the money invested makes quite an outgo of means. I am not able to write much today. I think your plan is good to send to your friends who have been befriended by you, and invite them to help you, for they can but refuse; but it may be they will send you a donation. The Lord may move upon hearts to do this.
(22LtMs, Lt 336, 1907, 2)
I am not well today and cannot say much with my pen. I hope Robert and you will keep well.
(22LtMs, Lt 336, 1907, 3)
At the present time we are feeling a dearth of means. We respect you both as the Lord’s children, and He will have a care for you.
(22LtMs, Lt 336, 1907, 4)
Your sister in the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 336, 1907, 5)
Lt 338, 1907
Wessels, Brother and Sister [J. J.] St. Helena, California October 14, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mr. J. J. Wessels
Paradise Valley Sanitarium
National City, California Dear Brother and Sister Wessels:
Be of good courage in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 1)
I am very glad that you have had the opportunity of this experience at Paradise Valley Sanitarium. When you have done the best you can under the circumstances, still continue to hold fast to the hand of Christ. Do not make any rash moves. The Lord would have you seek Him with the simplicity and trust of a little child. You have not stood the test perhaps as fully as you might have done; but the Lord is teaching you, my brother, the lesson of faith and trust in Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 2)
The Word of God is to be your guide. You are learning this lesson. Whenever we are placed in trying circumstances, we should look to the divine Son of God. Sometimes severe trials will come, and disappointments; but if we accept them as coming from God, these experiences will prove our greatest blessings.
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 3)
The Saviour invites us: “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] All who accept the yoke of Christ, identify themselves with Him. Through the ministration of the Holy Spirit, Christ reveals Himself to His people, uniting their hearts as one. He wills His righteousness to those who believe in Him, making them complete in Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 4)
When we are buried with Christ in baptism, we signify by this act that we have died to the life of selfishness. We rise from the watery grave to walk in newness of life by faith in the power of Him who raised Christ from the dead. Our sins have been transferred to the One who was made sin for us; Christ’s righteousness is made over to us, and we are made the righteousness of God in Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 5)
“It pleased the Lord to bruise Him.” [Isaiah 53:10.] By making His Son the sacrifice for sin, God “condemned sin in the flesh.” [Romans 8:3.] He who knew no sin was made sin for us. The beloved Son of God became the sin-bearer, that man might become a partaker of the divine nature and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. This is a great mystery. Who can explain it? Who can take it in?
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 6)
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, and not on things on the earth; for ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:1-3.] If this is your experience, then when Christ who is your life shall appear, then shall you also appear with Him in glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 7)
“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we that are dead to sin, live any longer therein.” Let us have faith in God. “Know ye not, that as many as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore we are buried by baptism into death; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk with Him in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection.” [Romans 6:1-5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 8)
This whole chapter should be carefully studied by our people, that they may realize the responsibility that rests upon them to walk worthy of their high calling. Those who have had so great light and so many advantages, should be intensely in earnest to obtain help and grace from Christ to enable them properly to represent the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 9)
I have had some conversation with Elder Hibbard today. He tells of his work in San Francisco. About thirty have embraced the truth as the result of his labors there. We feel very thankful to God for this. O if our people would individually arouse to their responsibilities as light-bearers to the world, we would see wonderful results. “Ye are the light of the world,” Christ declares. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 338, 1907, 10)
Lt 340, 1907
Workers in Southern California St. Helena, California October, 3, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 9T 277-280. + To the workers in Southern California:
This morning I cannot rest. My mind is troubled over the situation in Southern California. God has given to every man his work; but there are some who are not prayerfully considering their individual responsibility.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 1)
When a worker is selected for the presidency of a conference, that office of itself does not bring to him power of capability that he did not have before. A high position does not give to the character Christian virtues. The man who supposes that his individual mind is capable of planning and devising for all branches of the work reveals a great lack of wisdom. No one human mind is capable of carrying the many and varied responsibilities of a conference embracing thousands of people and many branches of work. But a greater danger than this has been revealed to me in the feeling that has been growing among our workers that ministers and other laborers in the cause should depend upon the mind of certain leading workers to define their duties. One man’s mind and judgment is not to be considered capable of controlling and molding a conference. The individual and the church have responsibilities of their own. God has given to every man some talent or talents to use and improve. In using these talents he increases his capability to serve. God has given to each individual judgment, and this gift He wants His workers to use and improve. The president of a conference must not consider that his individual judgment is to be the judgment of all.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 2)
In no conference should propositions be rushed through without time being taken by the brethren to carefully weigh all sides of the question. Because the president of a conference suggested certain plans, it has sometimes been considered unnecessary to consult the Lord about them. Thus propositions have been accepted that were not for the spiritual benefit of believers, and which involved far more than was apparent at the first casual consideration. Such movements are not in the order of God. Many, very many matters have been taken up and carried by vote, that have involved far more than was anticipated, and far more than those who voted would have been willing to assent to, had they taken time to consider the question from all sides.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 3)
We cannot at this time afford to be careless or negligent in the work of God. We must seek the Lord earnestly every day, if we would be prepared for the experiences that come to us. Our hearts are to be cleansed from every feeling of superiority, and the living principles of the truth are to be planted in the soul. Young and aged and middle aged should now be practicing the virtues of Christ’s character. They should daily be making spiritual development, that they may become vessels unto honor in the Master’s service.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 4)
“And it came to pass as Christ was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, one of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.” [Luke 11:1.] The prayer that Christ gave to His disciples in answer to this request is not made in high-flown language, but expresses in simple words the necessities of the soul. It is short and deals directly with the daily needs. Every soul has the privilege of stating to the Lord his own special necessities and to offer his individual thanksgiving for the blessings that he daily receives. But the many long and spiritless prayers that are offered to God, instead of being a joy to Him, are a burden. We need, O so much, clean, converted hearts. We need to have our faith strengthened. “Ask, and ye shall receive,” the Saviour promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] We need to educate ourselves to trust in this Word and to bring the light and grace of Christ into all our works. We need to take hold of Christ and to retain our hold of Him until we know that the power of His transforming grace is manifested in us. We must have faith in Christ if we would reflect the divine character.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 5)
Christ clothed His divinity with humanity and lived a life of prayer and self-denial and of daily battle with temptation, that He might help those who today are assailed by temptation. He is our efficiency and power. He desires that through the appropriation of His grace humanity shall become partaker of the divine nature and thus escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. The Word of God in the Old and New Testaments, if faithfully studied and received into the life, will give spiritual life. This Word is to be sacredly cherished. Faith in the Word of God and in the power of Christ to transform the life will enable the believer to work His works and to live a life of rejoicing in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 6)
Again and again I have been instructed to say to our people, Let your faith and trust be in God. Do not depend on any erring man to define to you your duty. It is your privilege to say, “I will declare Thy name unto my brethren; in the midst of the congregation I will sing praise unto Thee. Ye that fear the Lord praise Him. All ye seed of Jacob glorify Him, and fear Him all ye seed of Israel. For He hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath He hid His face from him, but when he cried unto Him, He heard. My praise shall be of Thee. I will pay my vows before them that fear Him. The meek shall eat and be satisfied; they shall praise the Lord that seek Him; your heart shall live forever.” [Psalm 22:22-26.]
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 7)
These Scriptures are right to the point. Every church member should understand that God is the One to whom to look for an understanding of individual duty. It is right that brethren counsel together; but when men arrange just what their brethren shall do, let them answer that they have chosen the Lord as their counsellor. Those who humbly seek Him will find His grace sufficient. But when man allows another to step in between him and the duty that God has pointed out to him, giving to man his confidence, and accepting him as guide, then he steps from the true platform to a false and dangerous one. Such a man instead of growing and developing will lose his spirituality.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 8)
There is no power in any man to remedy the defective character. Our hope and trust must be in One who is more than human. We need ever to remember that help has been laid on One who is mighty. The Lord has provided the needed help for every soul who will accept.
(22LtMs, Lt 340, 1907, 9)
Lt 342, 1907
Workers in Southern California St. Helena, California September 2, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 255-258. To the workers in Southern California:
This morning my prayers have ascended to God for spiritual grace and a clear comprehension of His will.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 1)
I have been instructed regarding the mistake that has been made in placing men in positions of large responsibility to meet emergencies which they think it necessary to be met.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 2)
Complaints of a grave character were made to the effect that some of our ministers, while drawing pay from the conference, were out of their place in taking the responsibility of going to various places and of spending means to pay their traveling expenses when they had not been told to go to these places by the president of the conference. These complaints led to certain rules being laid down by which these ministers could not receive from the conference the monies expended unless they had first, in taking up any line of work, gone to the conference president to ask his consent. Thus these workers were put under the rule of their fellow minister.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 3)
The evils that will result from the adoption of such a course are not discerned by those who favor it. But the Lord has plainly revealed to me that this is not right, and that He is greatly dishonored when ministers are instructed to go to their fellow men for permission to do the work that He had pointed out was their duty to do.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 4)
Man is not to be made amenable to his fellow man. I am bidden to write decidedly regarding this matter. The work of exalting men as rulers is a dangerous work, for it educates the workers to look to human agencies instead of looking to God, and this spoils their religious experience. Their minds are diverted from the only true source of their strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 5)
I have been shown that the evangelistic labors of the gospel minister are not to be directed by a fellow minister. The workers for God should inquire of Him, the fountain of wisdom, in regard to their labors. They are to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit of God. God is able to move upon their minds and to guide them with judgment. “The meek will He guide in judgment; and the meek will He teach His way.” [Psalm 25:9.] God will work with those who will listen to His voice.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 6)
The Word of God is to be the man of our counsel and is to guide our experience. The lessons of Old Testament history, if faithfully studied, will teach us how this can be. Christ, enshrouded in a pillar of cloud by day, and a pillar of fire by night, was the guide and the light of the children of Israel in their wilderness wandering. Here was an unerring guide. In all their experiences, God was trying to teach them obedience to their heavenly Guide and faith in His power to deliver them. Their deliverance from affliction in Egypt, and their passage through the Red Sea, revealed to them His power to save. When they rebelled against Him, and went contrary to His will, God punished them. When they persisted in their rebellion, and were determined to have their own way, God gave them that for which they asked and in this way showed them that that which He withheld from them He withheld for their own good. Every judgment that came as a result of their murmurings was a lesson to that vast multitude that sorrow and suffering are always the result of transgression of the laws of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 7)
The history of the Old Testament was recorded for the benefit of those who should live in the generations following. The lessons of the New Testament are as greatly needed. Here again Christ is the instructor, leading His people to seek that wisdom that cometh from above, and to gain that instruction in righteousness that will mold the character after the divine similitude. Both Old and New Testament Scriptures teach the principles of obedience to the commandments of God as the terms of securing that life which measures with the life of God; for it is through obedience that we become partakers of the divine nature and learn to escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. Therefore its maxims are to be studied, its commands obeyed, its principles, which are more precious than gold, brought into the daily life.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 8)
The light that has been given at this time is only a repetition of the message that was sent in the past:
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 9)
“Let every department of our work, every institution connected with our cause, be conducted on considerate, generous lines. Let every branch of the work, while maintaining its own distinctive character, seek to protect, strengthen, and build up every other branch. Men of varied abilities and characteristics are employed for carrying forward the various branches of the work. This has always been the Lord’s plan. Each worker must give his own branch special effort: but it is the privilege of each to study and labor for the health and welfare of the whole body of which he is a member.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 10)
“Not consolidation, not rivalry or criticism, but co-operation is the Lord’s plan for His institutions that ‘the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure in every part,’ may make ‘increase of the body unto the edifying (building up) of itself in love.’ [Ephesians 4:16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 11)
“God desires to bring men into direct relation with Himself. In all His dealing with human beings, He recognizes the principles of personal responsibility. He seeks to encourage a sense of personal dependence and to impress the need of personal guidance. His gifts are committed to men as individuals. Every man has been made a steward of sacred trusts; each is to discharge his trust according to the direction of the Giver; and by each an account of his stewardship must be rendered to God.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 12)
“In all this, God is seeking to bring the human into association with the divine, that through this connection man may become transformed into the divine likeness. Then the principle of love and goodness will be a part of his nature. Satan, seeking to thwart this purpose, constantly works to encourage dependence upon man, to make men the slaves of men. When he thus succeeds in turning minds away from God, he insinuates his own principles of selfishness, hatred, and strife.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 13)
“In all our dealing with one another, God desires us carefully to guard the principle of personal responsibility to and dependence upon Him.”—Vol. 7, pp. 174, 176.
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 14)
When Christ sent out His disciples, He sent them out two and two, and commanded them, saying, “Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into every city of the Samaritans, enter ye not. But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” [Matthew 10:5, 6.] Why was this restriction made? This was their first trial, the first time that they should attempt to labor without the personal presence of their Lord. They were not to go into the way of those caviling religionists who would draw them into controversy. “Go rather unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils; freely ye have received, freely give.” [Verses 6-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 15)
“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves,” the Saviour continued; “be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men; for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues.” [Verses 16, 17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 16)
It was those who claimed to be religious whom Christ declared would do this work of persecution. Ministers today need to look carefully to their own hearts, that they may understand where they really stand. The gospel of Christ is to be carried to all nations and peoples, but it is to be carried in meekness and lowliness of spirit, “with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace.” [Ephesians 4:2, 3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 17)
“There is one body,” the apostle says, “and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” [Verses 4-7.]
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 18)
“And He gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers: for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; till we all come to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the fulness of the stature of Christ; that we thenceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive: but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him, in all things, which is the head, even Christ; from whom the whole body, fitly framed together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” [Verses 11-16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 342, 1907, 19)
Lt 344, 1907
Daniells, A. G.; Irwin, G. A.; Prescott, W. W. St. Helena, California October 1, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in ChL 28. + Elders Daniells, Irwin, and Prescott
Takoma Park Station, Washington D.C. Dear Brethren:
For the past two years a strange experience has been coming into our ranks. Some have thought that ministers and teachers in different lines should have one placed over them who would teach them how to serve and when and where they should labor. I am instructed to say to our people that this is not the plan of Christ; it is a false movement from beginning to end. If a laborer makes a mistake in any feature of his work, it is the privilege of his fellow worker to go to him and in the Spirit of Christ to show him his mistake; but it is never the privilege of any man to restrict the liberty of one of God’s servants.
(22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, 1)
It is not the Lord who has placed in the human mind the plan to place any man where God should be. It is no design of His by which man is permitted to put yokes on his fellow laborers. I have pledged myself to the Lord to break the yokes that some have sought to place upon the necks of their fellow workers and to give liberty to those who fear God and keep His commandments. I am bidden to say to believers, You are not to permit any human yoke to be placed upon you. Christ says to you, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” [James 1:5-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, 2)
“Ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Let us say to our brethren and sisters, Walk worthy of your high trust. Having surrendered yourselves to God as ministers of His grace, depend upon Him and not upon man for your wisdom. You may be gifted and influential, but you must ever be dependent on God as a little child.
(22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, 3)
The device to place man under the ruling of his fellow man is a snare of Satan to divorce men from God; and it has resulted in a sad departure from the Lord and the working out of a cheap experience. The men who have made such plans have revealed that they are defective in Christian experience; their short-sighted judgment has resulted in leading souls away from the path to holiness and perfection. Unless they are truly converted, unless lips and mind and heart are sanctified to God, they will hear in the day of final reckoning the words, Depart; you cannot have the overcomer’s reward.
(22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, 4)
So long as self-sufficiency and self-exaltation have a place in the heart, there will be a low standard of character and an inability to reach the high standard that God sets before His people. The man-ruling power that has been coming into our ranks has no sanction in the Word. Satan has stolen in to lead men to depend on men and to make flesh their arm. I am instructed to say, Break every yoke that human invention has framed, and heed the voice of Christ, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls, for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, 5)
The man who, because he is president of a conference, dares to take the responsibility of telling his fellow workers what their duty is is working out a wrong experience. The influence will be to destroy the God-given personality of men and place them under human jurisdiction. Such management is laying a foundation for unbelief. The men who instruct their fellow men to look to men for guidance are really teaching them that when they go to the Lord for counsel and the direction of His Spirit, regarding their duty, they must not follow that counsel without first going to certain men to know if this is what they must do. Thus a species of slavery is developed that will bring weakness and inefficiency to the church of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, 6)
Those who bring in this unhappy chapter into the experiences of our work, and willingly accept the idea that the rulership of other men’s conscience has been given to them, need to understand that they have made a grave mistake. Their office was never intended to give to them the responsibility which they have been led to think it bestowed. The danger signal is now lifted against this evil. Never, never let men consent to stand in a position which God alone should occupy. I am instructed to say to my brethren who have indulged their propensity to rule: You need to be converted, you need to have your soul knit to the soul of Christ. “Why,” says one, “I have been a church member for years.” You may have been, but you have not become one with Christ; you are not following the meek and lowly Jesus. Your heart is not cleansed from selfishness. You have not received the wisdom that would lead you to choose the way of holiness. Unless you are genuinely converted, unless you unite in repentance and faith with the Friend of sinners, you can never be numbered with the redeemed.
(22LtMs, Lt 344, 1907, 7)
Lt 346, 1907
Ministers and Teachers St. Helena, California October 12, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in NPU Gleaner 12/18/1907. + To ministers and teachers:
Those who teach the Word need not feel that they must search up some new and intricate subject to present to the churches. The most profitable subjects that can be presented are those that Christ dwelt upon when teaching His disciples and the multitudes that daily followed Him. His lessons seemed always new and interesting. The common people heard Him gladly.
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 1)
When our ministers seek to present something that is new and strange to the common people, they are not following the custom of Christ. Sometimes the things that they endeavor to present they do not themselves understand, and they lead minds away from the path of truth and righteousness. Self, self! When will self die, and when will we learn what it means to follow in the footsteps of Jesus!
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 2)
Let us as ministers and teachers study the sermons of Christ and by prayerful effort learn to comprehend the very spirit of these discourses. They are to be presented so that the common people can understand them. Let us study over and over again the fourteenth to the seventeenth chapters of John. The last sermons of Christ and His last prayer for His disciples contain precious instruction, the treasures of which, study as we will, we can never exhaust.
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 3)
The work to be done in our churches should begin with the leaders. When they humble their souls before God, when they confess their sins and become truly converted, their lives will reveal the transformation within. Selfishness will be emptied from their hearts, self-confidence will die, the disposition to dominate and control will disappear.
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 4)
“Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh.” This is a representation of the man who does not humble his heart before the Lord and give up his will to the will of God. This man has lost his discernment and cannot be trusted. And because he has rejected the warnings of God, he has greatly hindered the work of the Lord. He shall “inhabit the parched places of the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.” [Jeremiah 17:5, 6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 5)
Another class is represented in the next words of the prophet: “Blessed is the man who trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh; but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Verses 7, 8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 6)
The prophet continues: “O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake Thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken Thee, the fountain of living waters. Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for Thou art my praise.
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 7)
“Behold, they say unto me, Where is the word of the Lord? let it come now. As for me, I have not hastened from being a pastor to follow Thee; neither have I desired the woeful day; Thou knowest; that which came out of my lips was right before Thee. Be not a terror unto me: Thou art my hope in the day of evil. Let them be confounded that persecute me, and let me not be confounded: let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed; bring upon them the days of evil, and destroy them with double destruction.” [Verses 13-18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 8)
We need to understand these Old Testament figures and representations. Let us give them earnest consideration. We are slow to realize that these things foretold by the Lord’s servants have been fulfilled, and are being fulfilled in our present history.
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 9)
God has provided divine assistance for all the emergencies to which our human resources are unequal. He gives the Holy Spirit to help in every strait, to strengthen our hope and assurance, to illuminate our minds and purify our hearts. He means that sufficient facilities shall be provided for the working out of His plans. I bid you seek counsel from God. Seek Him with the whole heart, and “whatsoever He saith unto you, do.” [John 2:5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 346, 1907, 10)
Lt 347, 1907
Our Churches St. Helena, California October 12, 1907 Previously unpublished. To Our Churches:
I have a special message to our churches. I do hope that all have done what they could in faith and love for our colored people in the South.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 1)
One of our brethren has been doing missionary work and has received some donations. But there was one church where the pastor showed his weakness in using his influence that they as a church need all their means and could not give any donation. Now we do wish to censure the man, because he manifested so little interest in this earnest invitation that has gone out for help for the colored people in the South.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 2)
We are acquainted with this church and know that there are none of our churches more able to impart of their earthly treasure than this church. That they should allow the voice of the pastor of the church to become conscience for them is a great mistake. We call upon the members of the church to do their duty. There were many members, and there should have been a liberal offering; for the fields in the South have been so often encouraged that something should be done to open the work in various places of the South. We have been able to do a little work, but now we are urged by the situation to take hold in earnest; and we had much expectation of what this church could do in raising a good sum to count in doing the very work needing to be done; and one man was allowed to be conscience for the church, and they made no gift.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 3)
I must take up this matter, for I know the situation. A general movement must be made. I will not name the place or the influence of the weakness of one man that should hinder the church from making their gifts, which the Lord requires of them, to make a liberal offering. I will again present the necessities of the South, fearing that there may be other churches that have withheld their offering and failed in thus doing of placing their money in the heavenly savings bank. But I must write out this circumstance, for it may be the voice of one minister will raise objections to gifts, because he supposes the church needs them. This may as verily be the excuse in every church. This is a large church and should [not] every one from the child to every member of the household have done something? I write now that this neglect should be corrected and gifts come from this delinquent church and every other church who have, in like circumstances, been delinquent. I shall now send my letter to be published, lest many may withhold when the Lord calls for every family to become interested to make up their delinquencies.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 4)
We now say to every church, Make your offerings now without delay. We are constantly receiving gifts from the heavenly treasury in favorable crops; and if crops are not favorable, you should not withhold your gifts. Let us each open our hearts to God in prayer to give us spiritual grace and make our hearts so full of a sense of the mercies and blessings of God, who gave to our world His only begotten Son. The great suffering He passed through on our account was that we might become partakers of His divine nature and escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 5)
Now I plead with you, fearing you might be like this church. If you have made the mistake of withholding, as this church has done, Wake up. For Christ’s sake, wake up. And when the Lord gives His message of the great necessities in the southern field, you will not, ministers or deacons or church members, put in any plea to keep your money in your own church. How many will listen to the voice of selfishness and do this? The time stated to bring the offering is passed. This need not hinder you from setting in order your own households, to deny yourself and show you appreciate the blessings the Lord has given you. Now I am moved to write earnestly, because of this case coming up in selfishly withholding.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 6)
I am instructed that many of our people are becoming entangled with worldly investments. Let there be a work of conversion in every home, to understand it is the Lord’s money many are spending in gratifying their pride or selfish indulgence. If we expect the Lord to be our keeper and to bless us with favors, will we consider that the colored people with few exceptions have not schoolhouses, have not the simplest houses in which to assemble to worship God? They need everything done for them to bring the missionary work where there may be appropriate places to worship God. Schools must be prepared. We again repeat the call for these donations. Worldliness has been coming in among our people and extinguishing the love of truth. Cut loose, cut loose, is the message we bring to our people. Become missionaries to sow the seeds of truth. Let ministers entrusted with a leading part to act in the churches never, never, by word or influence, bind the church from responding to the appeals made. Every soul is amenable to God.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 7)
We are hearing the grand truths of the gospel in all our churches if the Word is presented in the love of Christ, in the power of the Spirit. Cut loose from the entanglements of the world. If it is not a decided time to work, by and through ministers, for the South, when will the time come? With strong crying and tears, seek the Lord. Go to no human being for help, but to Jesus Christ, the One who never makes a mistake. Wake up, brethren and sisters in our churches. Come out from the world and be separate. Plead with God with your whole heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 347, 1907, 8)
Lt 348, 1907
Ministering Brethren St. Helena, California October 1907 Portions of this letter are published in AUCR 12/30/1907. To ministering brethren:
There is a great and increasing need that those who minister in word and doctrine should be learners in the school of Christ. The influence of the one who preaches the Word should be an influence that will lead souls to seek eternal life.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 1)
In these last days many influences will arise to draw the worker from standing firmly for a “Thus saith the Lord.” Men who themselves have departed from the faith will seek to draw the workers into controversy and by this method attempt to present heresies that will lead souls astray. My brethren, do not be enticed by such influences. Engage in no debate. Take no heed to the persuasions and challenges of those who would draw you from your legitimate work. You have no time to voice their sentiments or to repeat their words. Time is golden; truth is precious. We are to carry forward the work of God in the same spirit of simplicity that has marked our efforts for the past fifty years. But while our work is to be done in simplicity and meekness, we are to stand firmly for the principles of the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 2)
The Saviour has given the promise of His presence to all who labor in the spirit of true service. “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth,” He says; “go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] As you present the Word to your hearers, claim this promise of Christ’s presence. There is no day, no hour of the day, when He will not be near you by His Holy Spirit. He is in every meeting that is held in His name. His promise is given for as long as time shall last.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 3)
Be careful messengers. Do not be anxious to hear and accept new theories; for often they are such as should never be presented before any congregation. Speak no boastful, self-exalting words. Let the Word of God come forth from lips that are sanctified by the truth. Every minister is to preach the truth as it is in Jesus. He should be assured of that which he affirms and should handle the Word of God under the direction of the Holy Spirit of God. Walk and work carefully before God, my brethren, that no soul may be led into deception by your example. It had been better for you never to have been born, than that you should lead one soul astray.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 4)
Those who profess to be servants of God need to make diligent work for the obtaining of that life where sin and sickness and sorrow cannot enter. They are to be instant in season, out of season.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 5)
God is calling for reformers who will speak strong, uplifting words from our pulpits. It is when men speak their own words in their own strength, instead of preaching the Word of God in the power of the Spirit, that they are hurt and offended when their words are not received with enthusiasm. It is then that they are tempted to speak that which will arouse a spirit of bitterness and opposition in their hearers. My brethren, be advised. Such words are not to come from the lips of Christ’s ambassadors. Sanctified lips will speak words that reform, but do not exasperate. The truth is to be presented in the meekness and love of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 6)
I heard the words spoken, Prepare to meet thy God. If you will learn of Jesus, you will possess a power that will take hold of hearts. You will speak words that will be a savor of life unto life. Shake off the worldly spirit that would take possession of our people. Pray, O pray; and believe that the fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 7)
If the minister’s lips are touched with a coal from off the altar, he will lift up Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. When the heart of the speaker is sanctified through the truth, his words will be living realities to himself and others. Those who hear him will know that he has been with God and has drawn near to Him in fervent, effectual prayer. The Holy Spirit has fallen upon him, his soul has felt the vital, heavenly fire, and he will be able to compare spiritual things with spiritual. Power will be given him to tear down the strongholds of Satan. Hearts will be broken by his presentation of the love of God, and many will inquire, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 8)
The Spirit of God bids me bear this message to the ministers in Southern California: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke; exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine; for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but shall of their own lusts heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things; endure afflictions; do the work of an evangelist; make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but to all them also that love His appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:2-8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 9)
Wake up, my brethren; wake up; the morning cometh, and also the night.
(22LtMs, Lt 348, 1907, 10)
Lt 348a, 1907
Ministering Brethren St. Helena, California October 1907 Taken from Lt 348, 1907. This letter is published in entirety in AUCR 12/30/1907. To Ministering Brethren:
There is a great and increasing need that those who minister in word and doctrine should be learners in the school of Christ. The influence of the one who preaches the Word should be an influence that will lead souls to seek eternal life.
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 1)
In these last days many influences will arise to draw the worker from standing firmly for a “Thus saith the Lord.” Men who themselves have departed from the faith will seek to draw the workers into controversy and by this method attempt to present heresies that will lead souls astray. My brethren, do not be enticed by such influences. Engage in no debate. Take no heed to the persuasions and challenges of those who would draw you from your legitimate work. You have no time to voice their sentiments or to repeat their words. Time is golden; truth is precious. We are to carry forward the work of God in the same spirit of simplicity that has marked our efforts for the past fifty years. But while our work is to be done in simplicity and meekness, we are to stand firmly for the principles of the faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 2)
The Saviour has given the promise of His presence to all who labor in the spirit of true service. “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth,” He says; “go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] As you present the Word to your hearers, claim this promise of Christ’s presence. There is no day, no hour of the day, when He will not be near you by His Holy Spirit. He is in every meeting that is held in His name. His promise is given for as long as time shall last.
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 3)
Be careful messengers. Do not be anxious to hear and accept new theories, for often they are such as should never be presented before any congregation. Speak no boastful, self-exalting words. Let the Word of God come forth from lips that are sanctified by the truth. Every minister is to preach the truth as it is in Jesus. He should be assured of that which he affirms and should handle the Word of God under the direction of the Holy Spirit of God. Walk and work carefully before God, my brethren, that no soul may be led into deception by your example. It had been better for you never to have been born, than that you should lead one soul astray.
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 4)
Those who profess to be servants of God need to make diligent work for the obtaining of that life where sin and sickness and sorrow cannot enter. They are to be instant in season and out of season.
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 5)
God is calling for reformers who will speak strong, uplifting words from our pulpits. It is when men speak their own words in their own strength, instead of preaching the Word of God in the power of the Spirit, that they are hurt and offended when their words are not received with enthusiasm. It is then that they are tempted to speak words that will arouse a spirit of bitterness and opposition in their hearts. My brethren, be advised. Such words are not to come from the lips of Christ’s ambassadors. Sanctified lips will speak words that reform, but do not exasperate. The truth is to be presented in the meekness and love of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 6)
I heard the words spoken, Prepare to meet thy God. If you will learn of Jesus, you will possess a power that will take hold of hearts. You will speak words that will be a savor of life unto life. Shake off the worldly spirit that would take possession of our people. Pray, oh pray; and believe that the fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 7)
If the minister’s lips are touched with a live coal from off the altar, he will lift up Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. When the heart of the speaker is sanctified through the truth, his words will be living realities to himself and others. Those who hear him will know that he has been with God, and has drawn near to Him in effectual, fervent prayer. The Holy Spirit has fallen upon him, his soul has felt the vital, heavenly fire, and he will be able to compare spiritual things with spiritual. Power will be given him to tear down the strongholds of Satan. Hearts will be broken by his presentation of the love of God, and many will inquire, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 348a, 1907, 8)
Lt 350, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma St. Helena, California October 22, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 15MR 54-58; 6Bio 141. Elder J. E. White
Edgefield, Tennessee Dear children Edson and Emma:
I received your letter giving the particulars regarding your grounds and the cultivation of certain lines of fruit. While we were in Australia, we adopted the very plan you speak of—digging deep trenches and filling them in with dressing that would create good soil. This we did in the cultivation of tomatoes, oranges, lemons, peaches, and grapes.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 1)
The man of whom we purchased our peach trees told me that he would be pleased to have me observe the way they were planted. I then asked him to let me show him how it had been represented in the night season that they should be planted. I ordered my hired man to dig a deep cavity in the ground, then put in rich dirt, then stones, then rich dirt. After this he put in layers of earth and dressing until the hole was filled. I told the nurseryman that I had planted in this way in the rocky soil in America. I invited him to visit me when these fruits should be ripe. He said to me, “You need no lesson from me to teach you how to plant the trees.”
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 2)
Our crops were very successful. The peaches were the most beautiful in coloring and the most delicious in flavor of any that I had tasted. We grew the large yellow Crawford and other varieties, grapes, apricots, nectarines, and plums.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 3)
A member of parliament who came to Cooranbong occasionally, and who had purchased the house in which we first lived in Cooranbong, visited our garden and orchard and was greatly pleased with it. Several times we filled a large basket with fruit and took it to him and his wife at their home, and they were profuse in their thanks. After this they would always recognize us on the cars and speak of the great treat they had had in the fruit from our orchard. When they would visit us at our farm, they were always at liberty to eat all they wanted from the garden, and usually carried away a basket of fruit to their home. These favors brought us returns in several ways. Mention was made in the papers of the work being done by the students on the Avondale estate. And years afterward, when the terrible drought came, and the cattle were dying for want of pasture and food, the papers spoke of the wonderful exception to the drought to be found on the Avondale tract of land. They compared it to an oasis in the desert. Our crops were not cut off, and the farm flourished remarkably, notwithstanding the lack of rain.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 4)
When we were investigating the land at Cooranbong, our brethren held off from purchasing for a whole year, thinking to find in some other locality land that would compare well with the rich soil of Iowa. This they finally decided could not be found. But the work was hindered for a whole year because some of the brethren had not the faith to move forward in spite of discouraging appearances.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 5)
In the night season, a representation had been given me that revealed this lack of faith. I seemed to be on the Avondale land; and while the horses were breaking a way through the forest, I walked in an open space close to where our school buildings now stand. I saw a furrow made in the soil one foot deep and about four in length. Two of the brethren stood at the furrow, one at each end; they were examining the soil and declaring it to be of no value. But one stood by who said, “You have misjudged the worth of this land.” He then explained the value of the different strata in the soil and their uses.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 6)
When we came to Avondale to examine the estate, I went with the brethren to the tract of land. After a time we came to the place I had dreamed of, and there was the furrow that I had seen. The brethren looked at it in surprise. How had it come there they asked. Then I told them the dream that I had had. “Well,” they replied, “you can see that the soil is not good.”“That,” I answered, “was the testimony borne by the men in my dream, and that was given as the reason why we should not occupy the land. But one stood upon the upturned furrow, and said, ‘False testimony has been borne concerning this soil. God can furnish a table in the wilderness.’”
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 7)
The fifteen hundred acres were purchased. The marsh land had to have considerable attention in order to drain off the water. But when this was done, even this part was found to be valuable. The crops that the land yielded proved the truth of the words of the Messenger. But the lack of faith that was manifested in taking up the work cost us the loss of time and means.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 8)
The Lord knows what is best for His work. That which was as it were a hiding place in the wilderness has proved to be a profitable tract of land. And we have learned that if we would have a rich experience in our Christian life, we must let the Lord direct.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 9)
Well, all this is in the past. It is seven years since we returned to America.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 10)
I know that all who would have success in the work must tarry long with God. The story is told of an old Lancashire woman who was listening to the reasons that her neighbors gave for their minister’s success. They spoke of his gifts, of his style of address, of his manners. “Nay,” said the old woman, “I will tell you what it is. Your man is very thick with the Almighty.”
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 11)
We need to keep our eye single to the glory of God. Our fitness for his service will be found in constant communion with Him. God’s messengers must tarry long with God if they would have success. When men consecrate themselves to God, the power which comes alone from God will bring them definite results in their work. We are to act as in the presence of God; His eye is ever upon us; His arm is guiding us. We must die to self before God can use us to His name’s glory. If we will learn of Christ as His little children, we shall make a success wherever we are.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 12)
The workers in our publishing houses need to have their intellects converted. The physicians and nurses in our sanitariums need to experience the daily converting power of God. Our ministers need to know that Christ is an indwelling presence with them. Some of our workers have cherished their inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong, and this has led them to try to bear rule over one another. Repentance and daily conversion from wrongdoing is not a part of their experience. These souls are as verily the enemies of Christ as are those who have never yielded themselves to Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 13)
The testimony comes to such: “I beseech you by the mercies of God that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind; that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say unto you through the grace given unto me to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly and righteously, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and everyone members one of another.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 14)
“Having therefore gifts differing according to the grace given unto us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering; or he that teacheth on teaching; he that exhorteth on exhortation; he that giveth let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence, he that showeth mercy with cheerfulness.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 15)
“Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another. Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer; distributing to the necessities of the saints; given to hospitality.” [Romans 12:1-13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 16)
This chapter is full of cautions and exhortations. Let us study it prayerfully, that we may understand what are the gifts to the church which make it the light of the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 17)
We are to walk and work in a spirit of humility and in self-control. One is our Master, even Christ. The history of the past, in which man has been led to seek the guidance of the human mind, is not to be repeated. There are those who suppose that they are set to guard the actions of their brethren and sisters; and if these souls step out of the line that they have marked out, they think that they must put on the restricting line. O what a farce this is. Such a course is not after God’s order. He invites, “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” [Proverbs 3:6.] Let no human agency seek to outline the duty of his fellows, or to force his opinions upon another, lest he get in the way of the Lord’s counsel.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 18)
The workers need to study the life of Christ until they give themselves unreservedly to Him. “It is the Spirit that quickeneth,” He said, “the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [John 6:63.] Those who practice the words of Christ become one with Christ. Their lives represent the pure principles of the Word in simplicity and meekness.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 19)
The apostle Paul declared, “I brethren, when I came unto you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ and Him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power; that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 20)
“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor the princes of this world, which come to naught. But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the world unto our glory: which none of the princes of this world knew; for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath entered into the heart of man, the things that God hath prepared for them that love Him. But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things; yea, the deep things of God.” [1 Corinthians 2:1-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 21)
October 23
On Sunday, October 20, the Sanitarium Hospital was dedicated. I can give you only a short account of the meeting. There were many people assembled, and these were seated on the piazzas and on the hillside. There was singing and instrumental music. A large number had come to view the building. I saw it only from the speakers’ stand, and so cannot speak very fully concerning its arrangement. It is built quite near to the cottage that I erected near the sanitarium, but a little to the left and further up the hillside. It has four stories, but there is no staircase in the building, the different floors being reached from the outside. Each room is so arranged that a bed can be rolled from it through the open window on to a spacious veranda, without the patient in the bed being at all disturbed.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 22)
I gave a twenty-minute talk at the close of the prayer. Then W. C. White followed, and after him came other speakers. On the notice of the meeting the names of several speakers were given. I felt that I could hardly bring my remarks within the time allotted; for I had much to say. What to say and what to leave unsaid was a problem with me. Then the thought flashed upon my mind, Read the twenty-second chapter of Revelation.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 23)
I will send you a copy of the short discourse I gave. I was able to speak slowly and distinctly, and all were able to hear. All whom I have seen since then thought my words appropriate to the occasion. Nothing better than the beautiful words of John in (Revelation 22) could have been given.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 24)
I did not remain after my discourse was ended. The carriage was waiting for me, and I stepped into it and was driven home. I believe that the Lord will make this meeting a blessing to the workers there.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 25)
When we came from Australia, we found a strange condition of things at the St. Helena Sanitarium; but since Dr. Rand has taken the position of head physician there, the institution is running successfully. All the summer months, tents have been pitched on the hillside to accommodate the patients—sometimes forty and sometimes more. Now they have this excellent building where they can have the operating room away from the main building and where critical cases can be taken and have every advantage. We feel that this is an advance step in the work of the St. Helena Sanitarium.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 26)
In the treatment of the sick there are precious opportunities to remove prejudice from human minds. Ignorance is often at the root of prejudice. Many wonderful cases of healing have been wrought here, and through the work of the physician and nurse, and the influence of the religious meetings held in the sanitarium chapel and in the home, opportunity is given for all who desire to have evidence of the faith that we profess.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 27)
We bear in mind the Saviour’s work of ministry while He was on the earth. He went about healing the sick; and when He sent forth His disciples, He commissioned them to go forth in His name to work as He worked.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 28)
“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves,” He said. “Be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men; for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; and ye shall be brought before governors and kings for My sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak; for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 29)
“But when they persecute you in one city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel till the Son of man be come. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.” [Matthew 10:16-24.] The Saviour had often to leave the city where He was working and go to some place where He would not be recognized.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 30)
We are certainly living in the time of the end. Let us be sure that our life is hid with Christ in God. When one disciple lacks wisdom, let him take the matter to the Lord in prayer. “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” [Proverbs 3:6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 31)
Next Sunday quite a number of us leave St. Helena en route for Los Angeles, where we will attend the convention of the ministers and leading men. I would be much pleased if you could be with us. We will go first to Los Angeles, meet in council for several days, and then go on to Glendale. We will have a meeting there. How long this will last I cannot say. From Glendale we will go to Loma Linda. Our stay there will require more time, as there are many things to be considered. There are matters of special interest in connection with the school to be discussed. The sanitarium also needs help. The people who established this sanitarium thought to make of it a sanitarium and hotel combined. There were so many things to consider to give it the accommodations of a hotel that the treatment rooms were not properly planned for.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 32)
After we purchased the property, an additional building had to go up, and this has cost us some means. But we have no need for complaint because of the money we have laid out in this enterprise. We feel that it was a wonderful opening when we secured this property at so low a price.
(22LtMs, Lt 350, 1907, 33)
Lt 354, 1907
Scott, J. R. St. Helena, California October 24, 1907 Previously unpublished. + J. R. Scott
Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. Dear Brother:
I have words to speak to you:
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 1)
“Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life, shall lose it, and whosoever will lose his life for My sake, shall find it.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 2)
“What is a man profited, if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or, what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of His Father, with His angels: and then shall He reward every man according to his works. Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here which shall not taste of death, till they shall see the Son of man coming in His kingdom.” [Matthew 16:24-28.]
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 3)
To John was given a view of Christ in heaven. “I looked,” he says, “and lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Zion, and with Him a hundred and forty and four thousand, having the Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of great thunder; and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps. And they sang as it were a new song before the throne and before the four beasts and the elders. And no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which are not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile; for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:1-5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 4)
Six days after Christ declared to His disciples that some among them would not see death before they should behold Him coming in His kingdom, He “taketh Peter and James and John, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart; and was transfigured before them. And His face did shine as the sun, and His raiment was white as the light. And behold there appeared unto them Moses and Elias, talking with Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 5)
“Then answered Peter and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here; if Thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for Thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 6)
“While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces, and were sore afraid.” [Matthew 17:1-6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 7)
Here the disciples were favored with a glimpse of the future glory of the Saviour, and also of the sight of two of those who had been co-laborers with Christ, and who had shared His longing for the salvation of souls. This scene was given them that their faith might be strengthened for the experience that was before them in the trying scenes of the Saviour’s humiliation and crucifixion. The presence of Moses and Elias was wonderfully significant. These servants of God represented the law and the prophets. The disciples were to understand that the teachings of the Old Testament were not to be done away with the preaching of the gospel of Christ. They were fully in accord with the teachings of the New. The new dispensation embraced the Old.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 8)
Mark relates the event thus: “And there appeared unto them Moses and Elias; and they talked with Jesus. And His raiment became shining exceeding white as snow, such as no fuller on earth could white them.” [Mark 9:4, 3.] Peter, overwhelmed with the vision, said, “Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three tabernacles; one for Thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.... And there was a cloud that overshadowed them; and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is My beloved Son; hear Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 9)
“And suddenly when they had looked around about, they saw no man, save Jesus only with themselves. And as they came down from the mountain, He charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen till He should rise from the dead. And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning one with another what the rising from the dead should mean.” [Verses 5, 7-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 10)
“At that same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.... And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” [Matthew 18:1-3, 5, 6.]
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 11)
Christ did not here refer to those who were little children in years, but to those who in simplicity of heart were seeking to follow His requirements. He would have all who walk in humble obedience to Him respected. He would have His hearers understand that it is not those who are educating themselves in the performance of sharp deeds to get advantage of their fellows who would have the most exalted place in the kingdom of heaven, but the humble child of God, who is seeking to practice the virtues of Christ in his dealings with others. The humble disciple of Christ, studying that character that is free from all guile and hypocrisy, and practicing the principles that governed His life, becomes changed into the same image. He is a partaker of the divine nature and escapes the corruptions that are in the world through lust. His submission to Christ enables him to be taught of God and to accept His teachings as a humble child.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 12)
On another occasion when Christ was teaching the people, “one came and said unto Him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life? And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto Him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder; thou shalt not commit adultery; thou shalt not steal; thou shalt not bear false witness; honor thy father and thy mother: and, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. The young man saith unto Him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus saith unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me. And when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 13)
“Then said Jesus unto His disciples, Verily, I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, then for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When His disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 14)
“Then Peter answered and said unto Him, Behold, we have forsaken all and followed Thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed Me, in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit upon the throne of His glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. And many that are first shall be last, and the last shall be first.” [Matthew 19:16-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 15)
My brother, I have an earnest desire that you shall make most earnest preparation for eternity. Whatever we do for our own salvation and for the salvation of others we must do very soon. You are in danger of becoming a criticizer of your brethren and their work. Guard against this, and do not make moves in your work without reasoning from cause to effect. Your talents are to be regarded as sacred gifts.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 16)
God is very particular that all who serve Him shall manifest the superiority of right principles. If you will serve God with a kindly, converted spirit, angels of God will serve with you. The angels of heaven are sent forth as ministering spirits. They watch the interests of the churches and guard those souls who are in special need of help and strength. God will use in His work those who are humble in spirit; but when the human agent becomes set in his own course of action, and is determined to serve according to his own ideas, then divine agencies cannot work through him. In and through Christ heavenly and earthly agencies are to unite for the upbuilding of the kingdom of God. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit that we are the children of God; and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 17)
My brother, your spirit needs to be softened. Cultivate humble, kindly feelings. Unless we are fitted for service by sanctification through the truth, we will spoil the pattern that is to reveal to the men and women about us the imprint of the heavenly. The Spirit must bear witness with our spirit that we are co-workers with Christ and are acting as His commissioned messengers. Only as we become partakers of the divine nature can we show that we are bound for a better country, and are but pilgrims and strangers here.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 18)
God has laid down heavenly principles by which we are to measure our business dealings with the world. The Lord is very jealous that we shall reveal the principles of heaven in our work and bring in no corrupting influence in the form of sharp dealing. Where worldly practices that are not in accordance with the Word of God are concerned, let us be willing to be pilgrims and strangers. It is enough that the disciple be as his master and the servant as his lord. Christ has trod the path before us. His plans, His methods of work, if followed, will give strength to every soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 19)
The Christian is Christ’s representative, the agency through which He designs to accomplish His will in the earth. You have a special work given you to do in representing the kindness and gentleness of Christ. Let your heart be sanctified by the grace that was seen in the character of Christ. Cultivate a disposition to build up, not to tear down. It pleases the enemy of all righteousness when you consent to say and do that which will tear down. When you do this, you reveal that you are not sanctified by the Spirit of God. You are lacking in the grace and love of Christ. I am bidden to say to you, Hide yourself in God. Through the power of the grace of Christ, in whom is vested all power and all grace, you may come into union with the heavenly workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 20)
I am charged with this message to you, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. [Matthew 28:18.] Go ye therefore and perform your business transactions in a manner that will bear the divine inspection. My brother, my brother, I dare not withhold these words from you. You are too sharp and dictatorial. I beseech you to seek the Lord, that you may learn to represent Christ in spirit and in action. Strive to possess the sweet spirit of Christ; for this every true child of God will have.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 21)
We do not want to spare any worker from our ranks; we need every talent that is among us. But we must have the sanctification of the Spirit of God revealed in our lives. There is a world to be warned, and the messengers need to be cleansed, and purified, and ennobled. The converting power of God needs to come upon them. Heaven is full of blessings for us, if we will receive the Holy Spirit of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 22)
Heaven is full of grace, my brother. Pray for the softening and subduing Spirit of God. Seek constantly for His power, and your own soul will be refreshed, and you will be the means of bringing refreshing grace to the souls of others.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 23)
I leave these words with you. May the Lord bless you, and heal all you infirmities, is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 354, 1907, 24)
Lt 356, 1907
Members of the Battle Creek Church St. Helena, California October 24, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in AH 187, 388; CG 66, 321; PC 139. To the members of the Battle Creek Church:
While searching in my diary recently, I found something that I had written under date of Feb. 26, 1906. This I now send to you, because the instruction is timely.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 1)
In the night seasons, scene after scene has been presented before me; night after night, I ask the question, Lord, what shall we do? Our people are allowing themselves to be held in Battle Creek where the spiritual atmosphere is unwholesome, and they do not comprehend their danger.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 2)
During the past night the Lord has shown me that the gathering together of the youth at Battle Creek for educational purposes is contrary to His will; for unbelief is being instilled into their minds that will unfit them for the work that must be done in giving the warning message to the world, and in preparing a people to stand in the terrible conflict that is before us. The words were spoken to some of the educators at Battle Creek, “Thou art weighed in the balance, and art found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.]
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 3)
There are some whom the Lord will not withdraw from Battle Creek. There are men there who have the truth in their hearts, and who are striving to keep the principles of truth before the people. To those I would say, Let the truth bear its message of warning to the people. Manifold developments will appear, but let the message of truth go forth from the tabernacle through sanctified channels. Give the trumpet a certain sound. The work of seeking to instill right principles into the minds of men and women who are being deceived, by those who seek to make of none effect the Word of God, will have its influence. Soon, very soon, it will be more fully revealed who are on the Lord’s side.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 4)
Our people have been taught to regard those who have carried the medical missionary work in Battle Creek as men whom the Lord was using in His work of ministry. It is true that in the past, notwithstanding their infirmities, and oft-repeated blind movements, God has used these men. When they have made mistakes, He has corrected them; when they have done wrong, He has reproved them. Because of severe reproofs, they are now seeking to destroy the confidence of God’s people in the messages of reproof and warning. In this they are doing the work of the enemy. They are seeking to make of none effect the word that God has sent to His people through the working of His Spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 5)
Some are acting the part of Aaron, to help on the work of apostasy. They have been weighed in the balances and have been found wanting. Men are spoiling their record and are proving that they are not to be trusted, but that they will betray the interests of the cause of God, making them the sport of sinners. The messages of heavenly origin that God has sent to His people, to prepare them to stand in the last days, they have sneered at and scorned. But the evidence we have had for the past fifty years of the presence of the Spirit of God with us as a people will stand the test of those who are now arraying themselves on the side of the enemy and bracing themselves against the message of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 6)
The message of (Revelation 3) comes to God’s people at this time: “And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write: These things saith He that hath the seven spirits of God, and the seven stars. I know thy works, that thou hast a name, that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things that remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received, and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come upon thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I shall come upon thee.” [Verses 1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 7)
Words to the Youth
I address those who have come to Battle Creek to obtain an education. If that education is of a character to undermine the truth that has been coming to us for the last fifty years, and which would keep us separate from the world as God’s peculiar people, zealous of good works, you had better be deprived of some supposed advantages than to receive such an education.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 8)
Subtle influences are at work in Battle Creek to undermine the faith of God’s people in the truth that has brought us out on the platform on which we now stand as keepers of the commandments of God. We are exhorted as a people: “Be watchful, and strengthen the things that remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent.” [Verses 2, 3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 9)
The Work of Ministers
Those who stand as ministers of the Word have an important work to do for the remnant people of God, that they may not be turned away from the truth to fables. Shall we heed the warnings that God is sending? There stand in Battle Creek those who are using all the sophistries that the human mind can invent to encourage unbelief and skepticism in the messages that God is giving to His people. If earnest efforts are not put forth to counteract this work, it will result in placing the believers where they will be the ready dupes of Satan. Those who are opposing the truth will seek to prevent the Lord’s messengers from staying the work of unbelief. By falsehood they will try to make of no effect the messages that come. But if the servants of the Lord seek humbly for wisdom, and are led and instructed by Him, their efforts to make clear the evidences of the truth will not be without results.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 10)
I have felt very deeply concerning those physicians who have linked themselves with Dr. ______ and are strengthening him in his heresies regarding the personality of Christ and God. The mind of Dr. ______ has been captivated by this delusion, and his close associates have been led into the same belief almost imperceptibly. O if they could but see the results of being involved in so terrible a deception. They are being held with cords of sympathy, just as the once loyal angels were, when they yielded to the deceptive power of Lucifer in the courts of heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 11)
Lucifer carefully concealed from the angels his real sentiments and purposes; and when he had succeeded in turning them from their loyalty, and the terrible results of his work were manifest, he tried to make it appear that he had not been the originator of the evil. He led the ones he had deceived to engage in warfare against Christ and the loyal angels, urging them on with the hope that they could overcome Christ and dethrone God. With Lucifer on the throne, as ruler in heaven, he told them that a better order of things would be brought in.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 12)
God permitted Satan to carry forward his work until the spirit of disaffection ripened into active revolt. It was necessary for his plans to be fully developed, that their true nature and tendency might be seen by all. The spirit of discontent and disaffection was a new element, mysterious and unaccountable. Through the bewildering sophistry by which rebellion ever seeks to justify itself, Satan had disguised himself in a cloak of falsehood. While God could only employ such means as were consistent with truth and righteousness, Satan could work through flattery and deceit. And his powers to deceive were very great. In order that the true character of the usurper and his real object might be understood by all, he must have time to manifest himself.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 13)
The history of the first great rebellion is being repeated in the history of God’s people in these last days. The blindness that Elder ______ is exhibiting in the issuing of his writings makes me very sorry for him. He is spoiling his record. The Lord has repeatedly warned him, but he has bound himself up with the doctor and his intrigues, and he does not discern things in their true light. The snare of flattery has had its influence upon him when he should have understood its danger. In Battle Creek we are seeing fulfilled the words of the apostle, “Some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] O how terrible it is for one to reject light and to scoff at the ministers of God. The indulgence of ambition, the desire to be first, has spoiled one whom God would have honored had he heeded the invitation, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 14)
The love of Jesus in the heart will be a safeguard from the beginning to the close of our religious experience; for the heart that is in full union with Christ will not come into close affinity with those who carry themselves in a spirit of self-sufficiency. The truly humble hearted will never sell themselves to take part in the schemes of the enemy. Every trait of character will be molded to the likeness of Christ, and the spiritual nature will expand and grow.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 15)
In developing the work of our sanitariums, our schools, or any other branch of the cause of God, the workers need to place their entire dependence upon the wisdom that cometh from above. When God’s Word is carefully studied, and its requirements clearly understood, right principles will be brought into every transaction. “The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” [Psalm 12:6.] There will be no deviating from the truth in word or action. The words spoken will be like “apples of gold in pictures of silver.” [Proverbs 25:11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 16)
Our lives belong to God; they are not ours to trifle with. We have been purchased with the blood of the Son of God; and whether we acknowledge it or not, we belong to Him. Our safety will always lie in accepting the redemption that has been purchased for us by making Christ the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 17)
A Message to Parents
The Lord has given me a message to bear to fathers and mothers. Parents, begin the work of training and educating your children just where the Lord begins His work for you. Search the Scriptures that you may understand what God requires of you in your families. Teach your children the importance of obedience to all of God’s commands. And begin your work of instruction with the first dawning of intelligence, teaching them lessons that are fitted to their years and understanding. Continue the work of training through their growing years, and thus forestall the enemy, who waits for an opportunity to instill his evil principles in the hearts and minds of the youth. And by thus educating your children in the way of the Lord, you will confirm your own faith in God and in His truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 18)
Parents, you are God’s children. By your own example show your children that you obey God’s commandments to the smallest detail. Your children are the Lord’s heritage. They are to be brought to Christ and trained for the service of God. Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. The family is to be a school, the father and mother the teachers. Every word spoken, every act performed in the home life should be of such a nature that it will be preparing the children for the higher school above. This is the time for parents to prove that they are wise and are fitting the young for a place in that school where Christ will be the Teacher throughout the eternal ages.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 19)
The work of education in the home, if it is to accomplish all that God designs it shall, demands that parents be diligent students of the Scriptures. They must be learners of the great Teacher. Day by day the law of love and kindness must be upon their lips. Their lives must reveal the grace and truth that was seen in the life of their Example. Then a sanctified love will bind the hearts of parents and children together, and the youth will grow up established in the faith, and rooted and grounded in the love of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 20)
When the will and ways of God become the will and ways of Seventh-day Adventist parents, their children will grow up to love and honor and obey God. Satan will not be able to gain control of their minds, for they have been educated to regard the Word of the Lord as supreme, and they will test every experience that comes to them by the law and the testimony. “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 21)
We are to talk the love of God in our homes; we are to teach it in our schools. The principles of the Word of God are to be brought into the home and school life. If parents fully understood their duty of submission to the Lord’s will, they would be wise counselors in our school and in educational matters; for their experience in home training would teach them how to guard against the temptations that come to children and youth. Teachers and parents would thus become laborers together with God in the work of educating the youth for heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 22)
Children should be taught to bear their part in the burdens of the home; each should have his duties assigned him and should be taught to perform those duties with thoroughness and skill, the parents directing and planning with their children. Children are to be taught to be helpful and neat and orderly in their habits. Pleasant and profitable employment in the home will do much toward keeping the children from seeking the association of evil companions.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 23)
Parents, time is short; you have none to waste. Teach your children to be the Lord’s little missionaries, His helping hand in doing a good work in the earth. Many a child who lives out of the city can have a little plot of land where he can learn to garden. He can be taught to make this a means of securing money to give to the cause of God. Both boys and girls can engage in this work; and it will, if they are rightly instructed, teach them the value of money and how to economize. It is possible for the children, besides raising money for missionary purposes, to be able to help in buying their own clothes, and they should be encouraged to do this.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 24)
Parents, you carry responsibilities that no one can bear for you. As long as you live, you are accountable to God to keep His way. God speaks to parents when He says, “Whosoever shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, the same shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:19.] Parents who make the Word of God their guide, and who realize how much their children depend upon them for the characters they form, will set such an example that it will be safe for their children to follow.
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 25)
Parents, you are making a record that will be eternal in its results. The principles you are bringing into your daily lives are deciding your eternal destiny. Will you not let this year see a decided change in your record?
(22LtMs, Lt 356, 1907, 26)
Lt 358, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister Loma Linda, California November 3, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in PC 274-276. + Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
We thank you for your letters and for the news that they contain.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 1)
We have just had a very interesting medical convention. There were some who endeavored to have this meeting held in the city of Los Angeles. They reasoned that there were some in that city who would be unable to attend if it were held anywhere else. But such an objection might be raised in any case; for there were many from Loma Linda who could not have attended had it been held in Los Angeles. I thank the Lord that it has been held here; for I believe that this is where the Lord would have it.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 2)
I felt utterly unfit physically for a journey to Southern California, but the Lord has imparted strength to both body and soul. I have spoken several times. Three times in one day I climbed the hill from the main building to the assembly hall and returned to my room on the third floor. The day previous to this I had spoken twice, once to the convention and once in the parlor to the patients.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 3)
For more than a year the light has been coming to me that here at Loma Linda we should have a school of the highest order, and that the very best talent should be obtained, in order to prepare young men and young women for medical missionary work. This work we are desirous of seeing accomplished. It should not be necessary for students to be placed under the influence of teachers who do not obey the law of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 4)
I wish that you might have been present at this meeting. I think it would be well for you to be here as soon as possible. The instruction you might give would just now be very timely. You should be here with us to help in molding and fashioning the work. We are all doing the best we can to take advanced steps in the right direction.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 5)
There should be a different mold placed upon the work in this Southern California Conference. The president of this field has not had the experience that one should have who occupies such an important position. He seems to be unable to understand the Lord’s plans for the carrying forward of the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 6)
A man lives unto God when he continually recognizes Him as a present helper. When there is a recognition of the Lord Jesus Christ, there will be a holy fear, lest he shall make mistakes. The soul will be drawn out continually in earnest prayer as he realizes his need. As he draws nigh unto God, God will draw nigh unto him, the love of God will be kindled in his heart, and he will be able to speak the words of God. The language of the heart will then be, “Whom have I in heaven but Thee, and who on earth do I desire beside Thee?” [Psalm 73:25.]
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 7)
We must give evidence of a spiritual relationship to God, in all our ways acknowledging Him. Others will be able to detect whether we make ourselves a center or whether we regard Christ as all and in all. When we have the fear of the Lord ever before us, our experience will not be tame and spiritless. Christ formed within will be the hope of glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 8)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] In Him there is a hope that “maketh not ashamed.” [Romans 5:5.] The joy of the Lord will break forth from lips that are sanctified. We must now receive rich experiences in the service of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 9)
Our faith is to be expressed in thanksgiving. “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God.” [Psalm 50:23.] “In everything give thanks.” [1 Thessalonians 5:18.] “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] Let expressions of praise flow forth from human lips. We are to rejoice in the Lord more than we have done. Let not the heart remain cold and dull and unimpressive.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 10)
There are some who think that in matters of practical Christianity, they have a superior intelligence. Whether or not this is so will be demonstrated by the life actions. Are they self-centered, or are they moved by the Holy Spirit of truth and righteousness? Religion is to become a living, active principle. The one all-absorbing motive of the true Christian is to give an expression of the goodness and love of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 11)
We need you here, Brother Haskell, to exert your influence against the presumption of men who feel that their brethren must ask permission of them, before engaging in the Lord’s service where and in the manner that He indicates. Such presumption should find no place in the cause of God. We hope that there may be such changes here that the work of the Lord may move on more smoothly.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 12)
The influence of the president of this conference has been such that it is very difficult to obtain means for Loma Linda. He seems to have labored to hedge up the way, but has raised thousands of dollars for the school at Fernando. We wish that there might be a reconversion wrought in our brother, that he might fall on the Rock and be broken.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 13)
The Lord sends His messages to correct the erring, however highly they may regard themselves. He asks that they submit their judgment to His control. Every soul must be under discipline to God. To occupy an exalted position is not always evidence that the Lord has placed an individual in that position. It is the works, not position, that testify to the value of a man. Hereditary traits of character need to be overcome. A man cannot safely be entrusted with the control of others, unless he himself is under the sanctification of the Holy Spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 14)
In the spirit of meekness and lowliness of heart, all methods and plans should be submitted to wise counselors for their prayerful consideration and their endorsement. Otherwise, a restless, speculative energy and ambition may make an evil mark upon the cause of God and subvert and hinder the very work that the Lord has declared should be done in this conference.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 15)
In order that the great work of sanctification that needs to be carried forward in the churches of Southern California may be accomplished, the minds and wills of our ministers, physicians, and teachers should be united, their hearts blending in one spirit, to give the trumpet a certain sound. Let every voice proclaim distinctly the third angel’s message. In word and act let those who are proclaiming the message reveal that they are numbered among those “that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 16)
If this had been done faithfully, with the Word of the living God as the great lesson book, the third angel’s message would have gone with greater power. Had all God’s ministers, as faithful stewards of the grace of God, called upon the world to hear the last note of warning, giving the trumpet a certain sound, thousands more might have been converted and added their voices in proclaiming the message to the world. In distinct notes of solemn warning is to be given the closing message that will prepare a people to receive the seal of the living God.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 17)
Satan is working to fill minds with the spirit of ambition and of commercialism. Those whose minds are thus diverted will lose their opportunity of giving the last message to the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 18)
If a faithful work had been done during the last few years that have gone into eternity, thousands of souls would now be found with Bibles in their hands, reading the Word of God and praying for light and guidance. Many of these would be engaged in the work of hunting for souls and fitting up a people to stand in the great day of God. But some who ought to be missionaries are enthused with the spirit of commercialism and with an ambition to secure for themselves certain advantages. The truth becomes to them a dead letter not practiced or obeyed.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 19)
Jehovah is the true God. Let Him be feared and reverenced.
(22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, 20)
Lt 360, 1907
Workman, Mabel White Loma Linda, California October 30, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in PC 295-296. Mrs. Mabel Workman My dear granddaughter:
I have just read a letter that you wrote to your father and will now begin a letter to you.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 1)
Sunday, October 20, the hospital building at the St. Helena Sanitarium was dedicated. A large number of persons were present at the exercises, which were held in the open air. A stand was prepared near the building, and seats were placed on the verandahs. These seats were all occupied, and many people were seated on the hillside.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 2)
Your grandmother’s name was on the program, and after the opening exercises, she spoke for about twenty minutes. I will endeavor to have sent to you a report of her talk. Your father followed with appropriate remarks, and he in turn was followed by other speakers. As soon as I had finished speaking, I returned home. I am thankful that this hospital has been erected, and that there is no debt upon it. You doubtless know where it is located, near the house that I had built. It is a convenient and well-arranged building.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 3)
I wish to say to you and your husband that I cannot advise you to take up the study of foreign languages, with the idea of going to foreign countries, where your health would be imperiled. There is abundance of work in this country for which you may fit yourselves. There are many large cities to be worked, and in these large centers of population there is need of sanctified workers who can open the Scriptures to those that are in the darkness of error. Among these cities are such places as New Orleans, Memphis, Philadelphia, and Atlanta. I should advise that you keep to the simple lines of study.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 4)
I know of the condition of your dear mother before your birth, and I know also of your own physical difficulties. When your dear mother was dying, she especially committed you to my care. I am anxious that you should have every advantage possible to preserve your health.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 5)
You appear to have most excellent health, but your eyes will not bear taxation. There are advantages that you may obtain where you are, but not by exhaustive brain-labor or wearisome study of books. You have a special fitness for such work as that of a matron, not in a large institution, but in one of moderate size.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 6)
I do not wish to discourage you or your husband, but I do desire that you shall make such calculations that you may be happy in preparing for the line of work for which you are best fitted. I desire that your life may be just as useful as possible, but you are not to imperil your health. Your brain must be dealt with tenderly. The less it is taxed with hard work, the less danger will there be of the development of certain physical tendencies.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 7)
Your mother had great capabilities. She was a general in planning, and I ever appreciated her. She was a devoted Christian, and we did hope that she might live to care for the work in connection with her husband. Dear, precious soul, she was ever quick to discern what should be done and prompt to perform.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 8)
I feel impressed to write you this warning not to tax your mind too severely with studies. Take your case to the great Physician who never makes a mistake. My prayer to God is that He may preserve you and keep you by His power and fit you for a life of usefulness.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 9)
I should feel tenfold more anxiety concerning you than I now do, if you had not a husband in whom I have confidence as one who will reason from cause to effect. May the Lord bless and strengthen him by His grace and give him great wisdom. Under the blessing of the Holy Spirit, he may exert a saving influence over many souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 10)
The thoughts of the mind may be expressed in words by pen or by voice. The power of God may be bound up in these words. The lips may be sanctified to do great good. But let us put our trust always in God.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 11)
While He was clothed with human nature, Christ had such a firm conviction that He was doing the will of His Father that He could say, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh unto the Father but by Me.... And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in My name, I will do it.” [John 14:6, 13, 14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 12)
Blessed be God! If we plead the name of Jesus, it will prove all powerful to save. It is this magic name that dispels our darkness and gives us light in the Lord. His words are all light. It cheers our hearts in the darkest seasons of our pilgrimage. We may have peace with God. “The Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings that cannot be uttered.” [Romans 8:26.] My dear children, let us increase in confidence and trust. Let us be cheerful and hopeful.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 13)
Last Sunday night we were on the cars, and I was unable to sleep well. The next night we spent at Loma Linda. I had a good bed, but was wakeful, and had but a short period of rest. At the early morning meeting on Tuesday, I spoke to the people. After breakfast I rode out for an hour.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 14)
Tuesday afternoon I met with the stockholders of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Their council meeting was held in the bowling alley. In coming out, we had to pass through the assembly room, where there was a large audience. Brother Burden asked me to stay, as they were speaking of the work of higher education that should be carried on in medical lines, but I thought it best not to do this. After I had climbed up the long flight of stairs to my room on the third floor, which was the third time for that day, I found an article that I had written about a year ago, in reference to the establishment of a school of the highest order, in which the students would not be taught to use drugs in the treatment of the sick. With this I went down stairs again and returned to the meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 15)
Elder Burden was reading some extracts from letters that I had written about the school work. When he had finished, I read the article I had with me, which was right to the point. It spoke of the school that should be operated here at Loma Linda. Here there are wonderful advantages for a school. The farm, the orchard, the pasture land, the large buildings, the ample grounds, the beauty—all are a great blessing. If all will now take hold intelligently of the work that should be done here, there will be success.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 16)
For some weeks before this meeting I had been feeling very poorly. But the Lord has greatly blessed me here, and for this I am very thankful. The Lord has imparted to me strength as the occasion has demanded.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 17)
Thursday morning, Sara came to my room and told me it was time to go to the early meeting. I had been writing since three o’clock. I attended the meeting and spoke for about three quarters of an hour, and then there was a testimony meeting. I could not hear what was said, but I was told that it was an interesting meeting. In all my talks I have tried to present Christ as our wisdom, our sanctification, and our righteousness.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 18)
We are encompassed with the weakness of humanity, and we shall encounter the enemy in various forms. There is need of much prayer, that the enemy may not obtain the advantage. We must get out of and above all discouragement and not permit our work to be hindered by backsets. A cold formality will freeze the zeal which we should have and take away our courage to pray or to look up in times of perplexity. We need an infallible guide. For this the Comforter is promised, that Spirit that searcheth all things. Our faith must be enlarged. Prevailing faith will reveal our connection with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 19)
May the Lord bless you and your husband. I am so thankful that you are happy in your married life. May the Lord greatly bless you as you seek to qualify yourselves for future usefulness. When you are prepared to take up work, the Lord will indicate to you the field where you should labor.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 20)
Today, Sabbath, I spoke in the forenoon to a company of patients, helpers, and physicians from the first chapter of Second Peter. Those who have attended this convention consider that it has been an excellent meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 21)
I must close now, with much love.
(22LtMs, Lt 360, 1907, 22)
Lt 361, 1907
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.] Loma Linda, California December 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Dr. D. H. Kress
Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. Dear friends, Brother and Sister Kress:
There has never been a time when we needed more than we do at the present to seek the counsel of God. We need to pray constantly for spiritual strength. We need clear discernment, that we may walk constantly with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 1)
I have much to say to you, my esteemed friends. I have read your letter and am not surprised that you feel perplexed at what I have written regarding your wages. Sometime you will understand that I begrudge you none of your salary. But I know that just now some are watching you, eager to gather up points in regard to this matter that will give them an excuse for drawing the large wage they themselves would like to demand. They would like to make your case an excuse for their course in this matter.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 2)
I feel sure that the question of your wages will be satisfactorily adjusted in the future. But, my brother, let those who understand your influence and your work adjust your salary, and not you yourself. If you entertain the thought that in order to meet all your expenses you must have a certain high salary, others will take example by you; and although perhaps not so valuable to the cause as yourself, will take it for granted that because you draw large money, they can demand the same, or even more.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 3)
I do not demerit lady physicians. We need them as verily as we need gentlemen physicians; and we should have one hundred where we now have one. A great mistake has been made in not seeing this necessity and encouraging many more to take the medical course.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 4)
My brother, be of good courage in the Lord. We see so much need of the grace of Christ, and of that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. We need to learn our lessons of Jesus Christ, and to labor both for the health of the body and the saving of the soul. Our mission is the same as that of our Master, of whom it is written, “He went about doing good and healing all that were sick.” [See Acts 10:38.] In every place we are to bear a decided testimony for the truth for this time, representing to the world the character of God as it was revealed to Moses. In the prayer of Moses, “Show me Thy glory,” the Lord answered, “I will make all My goodness pass before thee.”“And the Lord passed before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” [Exodus 33:18, 19; 34:6, 7.] This is the fruit that God desires of His people. In the purity of their characters, in the holiness of their lives, in their mercy and loving-kindness and compassion, they are to demonstrate that “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [Psalm 19:7.]
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 5)
Through Israel it was God’s [purpose] to impart rich blessings to all people. Through them the way was to be prepared for the diffusion of light to the whole world. The nations of the world, through following corrupt practices, had lost the knowledge of God. Yet in His mercy, God did not blot them out of existence. He purposed to give them the best opportunities of becoming acquainted with Himself. He designed that the principles revealed through His people should be the means of restoring in men the moral image of God. What a work is before us, and how few comprehend this work!
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 6)
Sunday morning, Dec. 8
We had some rain Friday night. Yesterday I went to the Carr St. church, Los Angeles, as the appointment was out for me to speak there. I went trusting in the Lord. I found a large crowd gathered in the place of meeting. W. C. White thought the forces must be divided; he therefore spoke to a colored congregation in another part of the city.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 7)
Two days before this my strength was greatly taxed in visiting Long Beach. Important interests were brought before us by Brother and Sister Simpson concerning their connection with this place. They asked me to visit the Long Beach Hospital, and this journey, following so closely on my journey from San Diego, seemed to take the very last of my strength. Sister Simpson had provided me a room where I could rest, however; and I obtained a little sleep.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 8)
Dr. Preston Kellogg and Dr. W. Jones were there. We were asked to view the premises and to give our judgment; but as they had already decided the matter of hiring the place and opening a sanitarium, it was not necessary for us either to commend or disapprove. We found the building thoroughly but not expensively furnished, and in working order. Everything showed excellent taste and was very convenient. We did not discourage, for we thought the Lord’s hand might be in this move.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 9)
Neither Dr. Preston Kellogg nor Dr. Jones is fully living the truth; but we know that Sister Winegar Simpson is true to the faith. Her husband believes that he also is, but there is a work of reformation needed in his life.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 10)
We returned to Glendale on Sabbath. I spoke for one hour to all who could find seats in the church. Although I had been quite ill, my voice was clear and strong. This morning I am weak, but much better than I was. I ate my simple breakfast with a relish.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 11)
This afternoon I will fill an appointment and then, if able, shall return to Loma Linda. From there I shall return to my home, if this is the Lord’s will. I feel very thankful for the help He has given me in speaking to the people. My family at St. Helena needs me, and I am desirous to be at work on many things that need to be written out; but I have been very thankful to give to our people in Southern California the messages the Lord has given me for them at this time. A strange spirit of overbearing and condemning has been brought into the work there, and the direct messages that have been borne to our churches on this visit to Southern California have been greatly appreciated by them. The Lord has given evidences of His presence and blessing. If I am again called away from my home for this work, I pray that the same tokens of good may be seen in every place where I shall labor.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 12)
There is a great work to be done in Southern California. Strict guardianship needs to be kept of those institutions that the Lord has placed in our possession. If ever there was a time when divine power needs to be brought into the churches, it is now. It may be that I must remain here for some time yet, but I greatly desire to be at home.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 13)
I pray that you will have good courage in the Lord. My brother and sister, have hope in God. He will be your Helper. You are in the right place. Your Father knows your every need.
(22LtMs, Lt 361, 1907, 14)
Lt 362, 1907
Baird, Brother and Sister [A. S.] Loma Linda, California November 5, 1906 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Baird:
I am pleased to hear of you through my grandchildren. I am thankful for the interest you are taking toward these young people, whom we love in the Lord, and also as those who are joined to us by natural ties. We are glad that they may be associated with you, in whom we are also greatly interested. May the Lord bless you in your work.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 1)
Tell Sister Baird that I have a decided interest in her, that she may be, in the truest sense of the word, a Christian, that she may have the evidence that she is born again. I desire that she may be able to say, “We are all the children of God by [faith in] Christ Jesus.” [See Galatians 3:26.] The exercise of faith in Him entitles us to a participation of His divine nature.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 2)
My brother and sister, if you are tempted to spend money needlessly, will you not refuse to yield to the temptation? We see so many poor souls that need advantages, but whose circumstances are such that they are unable to obtain them. I would be glad to act as your steward to invest in such efforts whatever means you can spare. I will account to you for every penny that I may receive from you. I have helped some such cases, and I must continue to help them until some way opens before them. I present this as a blessed opportunity for you to lay up treasure beside the throne of God. Thus self-denial may be exercised for a worthy purpose.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 3)
Above everything else, keep your souls clean and free from selfishness. I desire that you may both be devoted children of God, that if I meet you no more in this life, I may entertain the hope that “of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.” [1 Corinthians 1:30.] May you be sustained and nourished by Christ as the branch is nourished by the vine, or as the members of the body receive action and guidance from the mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 4)
Yesterday, by request, I spoke to the patients in the parlor from the fifteenth chapter of John. “I am the true Vine, and My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit, He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 5)
“Now ye are clean”—how?—“through (obedience to) the Word which I have spoken unto you.” [Verses 1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 6)
Unless we follow on to know the Lord by a living experience, we shall not become members of the royal family that will come into possession of eternal life. We are to be purified through the spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice, an example of which Christ has given us in His life.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 7)
“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me.” [Verse 4.] Bear this in mind, and endeavor to manifest the true features of a religious character. Unless this is the case, you cannot have the evidence that you are fruit-bearing branches of the vine. I want to meet you in the heavenly courts.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 8)
“I am the Vine; ye are the branches. He that abideth in Me and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit”—in good works of self-denial and self-sacrifice, in efforts to be a blessing to others. [Verse 5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 9)
“For without Me ye can do nothing.... If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [Verses 5, 7.]
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 10)
These words of assurance are a great comfort to every soul that believes. Then let us believe, that we may receive the rich blessings of the grace of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 11)
I am thankful that you have had a part in the work of the school and the sanitarium at Takoma Park. I shall be pleased, if in the providence of God it is my privilege again to visit these institutions. The Lord has blessed us in the establishment of our work there.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 12)
Whatever may come, be of good courage in the Lord, and ever bear a living testimony to the grace of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 362, 1907, 13)
Lt 363, 1907
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.] Loma Linda, California November 5, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in CD 321, 324, 466; 1MR 293-294; 2MR 187. Dr. D. H. Kress
Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. Dear Brother and Sister Kress:
I was awakened at one this morning and began to write. I have been instructed to bear a message to the president of the Southern California Conference. It is strange to me that men placed in positions of trust should become self-sufficient and feel that they can do their work without the strength of God. I am alarmed for the results of this spirit that is being manifested. Men need to put away their self-confidence and become humble in heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 1)
I have received a letter from my granddaughter Mabel Workman. She writes that she was much pleased with her visit to the sanitarium. She speaks highly of the spiritual atmosphere of the home. I was very thankful that she could write thus. The presence of a Christian influence in the sanitarium family is just what should be. It is this that will make the sanitarium at Washington an example of what all our sanitariums should be. I sincerely believe that you are in the place where the Lord would have you be. In living the gospel of Christ before the sanitarium family, you are preaching a more powerful sermon than any words could give.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 2)
When I lie awake in the night season, I often think of you and pray for you. Let us bring all the sunshine possible into our lives. I delight to dwell on the relation of God to us, as the Father of our Lord Jesus. It is through the Son that we can look to Him and call Him our Father. We cannot have too exalted views of our relationship with the Father of all the human family.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 3)
I ask you, Dr. Kress, to speak a word of encouragement occasionally to Brother Baird. If you will, you can bind up the influence of this brother with your influence. Brother Baird is a sufferer and is often in pain as he works. If you will speak a kind word to him and to his wife, it will do them both great good. They will have the assurance that you take an interest in them.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 4)
The Lord designs that our sanitariums shall educate the people how to cook healthfully and how to eat healthfully. It is a mistake to prepare a large number of foods for one meal; a few kinds, carefully prepared, and served in an appetizing way, is all that is needed. You need no flesh foods; flesh foods are not the best for the human stomach. Often the animals sold for the market are diseased.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 5)
In a letter that came to me, the question was asked if it was true that Sister White ate chicken broth at the first camp-meeting held in Australia. It is true that I did so. I had been very sick with a severe attack of inflammatory rheumatism and was just recovering. I had no appetite for food of any kind. Some of our good sisters, thinking to do me a kindness, sent me a bowl of chicken broth. I took a few spoonfuls, but had no appetite for it, and sent it back to the one who had sent it to me, saying I did not wish any flesh meats prepared for me. When the second dish was brought to me, I returned it untasted. From this circumstance it was reported widely that I had eaten flesh foods at the time of the first camp-meeting in Australia. It was told me that the matter was reported in Washington.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 6)
I will tell you how we dealt with this matter of meat eating in Australia:
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 7)
Sara McEnterfer, who had been my nurse up to the time of my sailing from America for Australia, did not accompany us, as she was taken sick. After she was somewhat recovered, she served in the sanitarium, getting a further experience in how to care for the sick. When, later, she joined us in Australia, in Cooranbong, where we settled, she had plenty of opportunity to exercise her skill in caring for the sick and injured. There was no physician nearer than Newcastle, and those who would come at the call of the sick would charge twenty-five dollars for their services at one visit. Many of the people died for want of needed assistance. When the people learned that Sara could treat the sick, they would send for her, and she always responded to their calls. She had a safe horse, and she would often go for miles in the night to visit some family that needed help.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 8)
On one occasion Sara was called to a family at Dora Creek, where every member of the household was sick. The father belonged to a highly respectable family, but he had taken to drink, and his wife and children were in great want. At this time of sickness there was nothing in the house suitable to eat. And they refused to eat anything that we took them. They had been accustomed to having meat. We felt that something must be done. I said to Sara, Take chickens, from my place, and prepare them some broth. So Sara treated them for their illness and fed them with this broth. They soon recovered.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 9)
Now this is the course we pursued. We did not say to the people, You must not eat meat, although we did not use flesh foods ourselves. When we thought it essential for that family in their time of sickness, we gave them what we felt they needed. There are occasions when we must meet the people where they are.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 10)
The father of this family was an intelligent man. When the family was well again, we opened to them the Scriptures, and this man was converted and accepted the truth. He threw away his pipe and gave up the use of drink; and from that time as long as he lived, he neither smoked nor drank. As soon as it was possible, we took him on our farm and gave him work on the land. While we were away attending meetings in Newcastle, this man died. Thorough treatment was given him by some of our workers, but the long-abused body could not respond to their efforts. But he died a Christian and a commandment keeper.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 11)
When we first went to Cooranbong, we were informed that it was a very wicked place, that the people would steal anything they could lay their hands on. But we replied that we were the Lord’s missionaries, that we had come to do the people good, and that we would treat them in such a way that they would learn not to appropriate our goods to themselves. Before, however, they learned that we were their friends, we suffered at their hands. At one time we received from the city a large bag of provisions for our family and workers. When in the morning we went to the shed where these were kept, we found the bag gone. At another time we went to get a large pan of rice which had been cooked for our dinner. Both pudding and dish were missing. But after we had had some experience with these people, and had cared for their sick and relieved their necessities, nothing on our premises was touched.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 12)
We have neither meat nor butter on our table, and we have but two meals a day. If any of my workers desire a simple meal in the evening, I do not have anything to say against it.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 13)
Our farm is cared for by Brother James, who labored for us in Australia. His family now numbers thirteen, including the parents. I do not think that one unpleasant word has ever passed between our two families in all our association together. Brother James has been quite successful in cultivating loganberries. Besides having all we needed for our own family, we sold last season one hundred dollars’ worth of these berries. Of corn and peas we have raised enough for ourselves and our neighbors. The sweet corn we dry for winter use; then when we need it we grind it in a mill and cook it. It makes most palatable soups and other dishes.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 14)
We have a bakery close by, as you know; but we cook our own bread. Sweet breads and sweet cookies we seldom have on our table. The less of sweet foods that are eaten, the better; these cause disturbances in the stomach and produce impatience and irritability in those who accustom themselves to their use.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 15)
In their season we have grapes in abundance, also prunes and apples, and some cherries, peaches, pears, and olives, which we prepare ourselves. We also grow a large quantity of tomatoes. I never make excuses for the food that is on my table. I do not think God is pleased to have us do so. Our visitors eat as we do and appear to enjoy our bill of fare.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 16)
I am glad that in your location in Washington you are away from the city. I have seen the ground, but have not had the pleasure of seeing your nice building. I shall be very pleased to see you and hope that I may do so sometime.
(22LtMs, Lt 363, 1907, 17)
Lt 364, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister Loma Linda, California November 11, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in LLM 321-322. + Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
We feel that you are needed in the Southern California field at this time. W. C. White thinks that you may be planning to labor for a time in Nashville. But I feel that your labors are very essential right here at Loma Linda, and I hope that you will not delay coming longer than seems necessary. If ever such help as you can give was needed, it is now.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 1)
We have found that some things are not as they should be, and I have borne a decided testimony, concerning the workings of a one-man power. I wrote a very decided testimony regarding the course of Elder Reaser and read it to Elders Daniells, Irwin, Cottrell, and a few others. A copy was sent to Brother Reaser, and I think that he has decided to resign his position as president of the conference. He has sown seed that will bear evil fruit. By his words and by his actions he has disseminated doubts regarding the testimonies.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 2)
Yesterday I spoke in the assembly hall here at Loma Linda, and the Lord gave me a decided message. Elder Reaser opened the meeting with prayer, and I followed him with an earnest prayer for the presence of the Holy Spirit. I then spoke for one hour, and the Lord greatly helped me.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 3)
Now I hope that you can soon be here. The spirit of doubt and uncertainty that has been implanted in the minds of many in this conference demands that a strong testimony be borne in the churches.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 4)
My message to Elder Reaser was that he is not fitted to serve as the president of any conference. Elder Cottrell may have to serve until we can secure some one to act as president. But we must not be in such a hurry that we shall again secure a man who will consider that his mind and judgment are to bear absolute rule in all departments of the conference.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 5)
We left home Sunday, October 27, and have been here at Loma Linda since that time. While I have been here I have had all the burdens that I could possibly carry. I have not had a full night’s sleep since coming here. My soul has been filled with anguish to see men assume power that belongs to God. But we hope that this spirit has been broken in this conference, and that there will be changes for the better.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 6)
Yesterday we had a thundershower at the time appointed for me to speak in the assembly hall on the hill. I was well wrapped up and taken in a wheel chair to the place of meeting. The Lord helped me in speaking from the fifty-fifth, fifty-sixth, and fifty-eighth chapters of Isaiah. The Lord is sustaining me wonderfully, for which I praise His holy name.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 7)
Last Friday Elder Luther Warren arrived from Nebraska, bringing with him forty-six students. Still others are coming to attend the school here.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 8)
I shall be glad to see you here soon.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 9)
In haste.
(22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, 10)
Lt 366, 1907
White, J. E. Loma Linda, California November 10, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 373. + Elder J. E. White Dear Son Edson:
I was glad to receive a letter from you. While I do not urge you to write, still I am always glad to hear from you.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 1)
Friday morning Elder Luther Warren came from the East with a group of forty-six students for the Loma Linda College of Evangelists. They appear to be an earnest, consecrated company of young people. Yesterday morning, I spoke to them, speaking of the great privilege of responding to the invitation of Christ, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.]
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 2)
In the afternoon I spoke again to a large congregation. Elder Reaser opened the service with prayer, and after he had prayed I offered a petition to God. O how my soul yearned after Him! My heart was deeply burdened as I thought of how rapidly time was passing and how little understanding many seem to have of what needs to be done in right lines. I read the fifty-fifth, fifty-sixth, and fifty-eighth chapters of Isaiah. The Lord gave me strength to speak distinctly, while I made the application of these chapters to our own experience. At the close of my remarks, the congregation sang with good effect, “The Lost Sheep.”
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 3)
Just before the time for this meeting a heavy thundershower came up. I was well wrapped up and taken in a wheel chair to the place of meeting, which is a little higher on the hill than the sanitarium. This building is used for the school work and makes a very convenient place for meetings. We are thankful for this building; for it would have been difficult to secure the means to erect a chapel.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 4)
The Loma Linda property originally cost the owners one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, but it was offered to us for forty thousand. The main building had about sixty-five rooms for patients. In the front part of the building on the lower floor is a large sun parlor, with windows on three sides. Adjoining this room is a large parlor, and across the hall from the parlor is the patients’ dining room. It has been found necessary to build an addition for a dining room for the students and helpers.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 5)
Besides the main building there are five cottages on the hill, one of them being a two-story structure. These buildings are connected with gravel roads and with concrete walks. They are all elegantly and completely furnished.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 6)
Besides the buildings, there were in the Loma Linda property about seventy-six acres of land, including orchards, pasture land, lawns, and flower gardens. Just back of the sanitarium is a beautiful lawn and pepperwood grove, where I have spoken several times. This property was formerly conducted as a tourist hotel, but did not prove profitable to the owners, and they were glad to sell it to us.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 7)
I wish that you and Emma might be here now. This is a very pleasant time of the year; for we are not troubled with the heat.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 8)
In our churches there is need of a deeper spirituality, need of a greater missionary spirit. There are many who need a thorough conversion. The Lord has united believers together in church capacity, but every soul should draw nigh to Christ, who is the source of our strength. Then the church will exert a righteous influence before the world. If there existed in the church such a union as is in accordance with the Scriptures, the church on earth would be a type of the church in heaven. Every transaction would be free from the elements of human depravity. We want to see every one act his part in representing the great family above.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 9)
Earnest work, much more earnest work must be done. I have not laid off the burden, but I still continue to carry it, as I have done for over sixty years. I feel intensely over the fact that there are tares among the wheat, that among the people who have had great light, there are some who are carrying out the will of the great enemy of souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 10)
The message I bear to all the leaders in our work is, Purify your souls by obeying the truth. Work with the true missionary spirit for those not of our faith. I lift my voice in earnest appeal, Take up the work of purification essential for the health of the soul. Redeem the time. Before every soul there is a great work of reformation and of transformation before the full brightness of the truth will shine forth before unbelievers as a light in a dark place. One person can exert a powerful influence for good if he is humble, meek, and lowly in heart, standing as firm as a rock to a Thus saith the Lord. Angels of God can commit to him grace and efficiency.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 11)
I often consider the words of the apostle Paul in writing to the Romans:
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 12)
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.” [Romans 12:1, 2.]
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 13)
Christians are to be united, not in fault-finding and criticism, but in fellowship, in dependence one upon the other, bound by the golden links of the chain of love. If they will unite in partaking of the divine nature, they will be bound to the throne of God. This must be the case if we are ever to meet the Lord Jesus. There must be a receiving of the attributes of pure, holy, sanctified characters, such characters as man would ever have possessed had he remained loyal and true to God. By an intelligent understanding of the Word of truth, we may understand the character of Christ. We must have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul from all objectionable hereditary and cultivated tendencies to imperfection of character.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 14)
In His Word, the Lord Jesus has specified that believers, united in church capacity, may be as a light in the world, strengthening one another in love and sympathy, laboring unitedly to win souls to Jesus Christ. Their success in this work is dependent upon their faith and prayer. Under the dictation of the Holy Spirit, they may be laborers together with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 15)
I am charged to say to all that any other representation than this is deceptive. The efforts of some to bring others under the rule of their own arbitrary authority strengthens the forces of darkness.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 16)
It is the privilege of all to cleanse themselves from all selfishness, from all rudeness in speech, all discourtesy in spirit, in word, or in action. We are striving for a city whose builder and maker is God.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 17)
Those who are daily sanctified by the precious blood of Christ will not be a means of counterworking the great plan of redemption that God has devised at the infinite cost of the life of His only begotten Son.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 18)
Night after night I wrestle in agony of spirit as I see so little of an intense working to save perishing souls, in order that they may be converted and purified and cleansed. O such a work of selfishness as is continually carried on by professed Christians! My soul is in agony as I think of it.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 19)
Edson, I hope that you will keep the Word of the Lord ever before you and make that Word your guide. Walk humbly with Him; for we all need His guidance. Maintain the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Our only safety is to be often in prayer and to exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 20)
Brother Sutherland is here, and we have just had a nice visit with him. All our leading brethren here are now in a committee meeting, counseling about the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 21)
I think we shall soon make a visit to San Diego County and then return home. We were planning to visit the Paradise Valley Sanitarium this week, but we may not get away till next week. W. C. White is very busy planning with the workers here. May the Lord guide in counsel is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 22)
Let us hear from you both often. I hope that the Lord will spare your lives to take part in the work that needs to be done.
(22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, 23)
Lt 368, 1907
Salisbury, H. R. Loma Linda, California November 8, 1907 Previously unpublished. Professor H. R. Salisbury Dear Brother Salisbury:
I would very much like to see and talk with you and your wife, whom I love in the Lord; but as I cannot do this, I will write to you.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 1)
I am very much pleased that you are located in Washington, and I pray that the Lord will bless you with physical and spiritual health. You have large responsibilities, but the Lord lives and reigns, and His power will be imparted to those who seek Him with the whole heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 2)
You are engaged in an important work. The establishment of our college in Washington is a step in the right direction. If you depend upon the Lord, He will be your counselor, your frontguard and your rereward. Let us have faith and trust in God. The maturity of Christian experience will be to you of the highest value. A steady, continual growth is the privilege of yourself and wife. Your spiritual vision may be enlarged. You will feel the need of all the fulness of the precious blessings of increased strength and wisdom.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 3)
The Lord would have the teachers and students realize continually their need of an increase of grace and knowledge. The Word of God is to be their understanding. You can communicate the treasures of that Word to the students, while at the same time you employ all right means to encourage them to do thorough work in their other studies. Such a combination will prepare men and women to become candidates for the higher life. They will continue their education in the heavenly courts, but the holy endeavor must begin here in this life.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 4)
“He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him. Judas saith unto Him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that Thou wilt manifest Thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him.” [John 14:21-23.]
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 5)
My brother and sister in the Lord, have faith in God. You can trust Him who has given His only begotten Son, in order that we may be partakers of His divine nature, and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 6)
Let us put forth most earnest efforts as co-laborers with Jesus Christ. This is your work, and mine, to labor, through obedience to Christ, to be examples to others.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 7)
Last Monday, I was asked to speak in the parlor to the patients here at Loma Linda. I met a small number of intelligent-looking ladies and gentlemen. We could not sing, because above the room was a patient who had just undergone a critical operation. I offered prayer and then spoke from (John 15): “I am the true Vine, and My Father is the husbandman.” [Verse 1.]
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 8)
After the meeting was closed I was introduced to most of those present. One gentleman of gray hairs spoke to me. He said that he heard me speak twenty-five years ago in Battle Creek. He seemed very much pleased to meet me again. I was also introduced to a prominent Women’s Christian Temperance Union worker. I presented her with two of my books Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing. I am thankful for the opportunity of presenting these books to such people.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 9)
This is the last time that I have spoken publicly, but I have since had several important interviews with some of the brethren. There are many perplexing questions to be settled. My mind has been so exercised that I have been unable to sleep well at night. I feel that I have reason to praise the Lord that, at my age, I am able to climb these long stairs to my room on the third floor. I shall be eighty years old the twenty-sixth of this month.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 10)
I think that after a few days longer here at Loma Linda we shall visit the Paradise Valley Sanitarium near San Diego and then return to our home in St. Helena. I see a great work to be done in Southern California. There is need that the workers seek the Lord earnestly for that grace which He will give to all who ask Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 11)
It is now bedtime, and I must say Good-night. Be strong in the Lord, yea, be strong. With much love to you and your wife.
(22LtMs, Lt 368, 1907, 12)
Lt 370, 1907
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.] St. Helena, California October 23, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 197-198. + Dr. and Mrs. D. H. Kress Dear Brother and Sister Kress:
I have received and read your letter. I can perceive running through it a tone of disappointment. This makes me sad: I feel that you need to take fresh courage in the Lord. You should not allow yourselves to think that you have cause for discouragement. Strive to make the very best of the present situation.
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 1)
I will insert a paragraph here taken from a letter to one whom I thought these words would help:
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 2)
“Just now is the time when the work must be carried intelligently. I know you want to be a co-laborer with Christ. Remember that the Lord has experienced, trusted men who will act faithfully the part assigned to them. Do not give place to the thought that you are not appreciated.”
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 3)
In view of the large work that is to be done, our laborers should be willing to work for a reasonable wage. Even if you could obtain large wages, you should consider the example of Christ in coming to our world and living a life of self-denial. Just at this time it means very much what wages are demanded by the workers. If you require and receive a large wage, the door is thrown open for others to do the same. It was the demand for large wages among the workers at Battle Creek that helped to spoil the spirit of the work there. Two men led out in this movement, and they were joined by three or four others; and the result was a union in a course of action which, if followed by the majority, would have destroyed one of the characteristic features of the work of this message. The cause of present truth was founded in self-denial and self-sacrifice. This selfish, grasping spirit is entirely opposed to its principles. It is like the deadly leprosy, which in time will disease the whole body. I am afraid of it. We need to take heed lest we outgrow the simple, self-sacrificing spirit that marked our work in its early years.
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 4)
You will not find it difficult to exert a wide influence in the sanitarium at Washington. If you will act an unselfish part, not requiring the wages which you would naturally suppose you must draw, the Lord will sustain you in your work. If, on the other hand, you ask for a high wage, another, and still another, will think that they have a right to demand just as high a wage as you; and by this means the money will be used that should be expended in building up the work of the cause of present truth in other places.
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 5)
In making important decisions, we should study every side of the question. We are ever to remember that we are given a place in the work to act as responsible agencies. Some would follow a worldly fashion in the drawing of their salaries; but the Lord does not view matters as these men view them. He views our duties and responsibilities in the light of Christ’s self-denying example. The gospel must be so presented to the world that percept and example will harmonize.
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 6)
Our sanitariums are not to be conducted after the customs of the world. It is not to be considered necessary that even the medical superintendent shall draw a large salary. We are the servants of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 7)
“God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body; for we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.” [2 Corinthians 4:6-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 370, 1907, 8)
Lt 371, 1907
Wilcox, F. M. St. Helena, California October 23, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in PH116 10-16.
My Work and My Helpers
Dear Brother Wilcox:
I received and read your recent letter. Regarding the sister who thinks that she has been chosen to fill the position that Sister White has occupied, I have this to say: She may be honest, but she is certainly deceived.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 1)
About a year after the death of my husband, I was very feeble, and it was feared that I might live but a short time. At the Healdsburg camp-meeting, I was taken into the tent where there was a large gathering of our people. I asked to be raised up from the lounge on which I was lying, and assisted to the speaker’s platform, that I might say a few words of farewell to the people. As I tried to speak, the power of God came upon me and thrilled me through and through. Many in the congregation observed that I was weak, and that my face and hands seemed bloodless; but as I began speaking, they saw the color coming into my lips and face and knew that a miracle was being wrought in my behalf. I stood before the people healed and spoke with freedom.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 2)
After this experience, light was given me that the Lord had raised me up to bear testimony for Him in many countries, and that He would give me grace and strength for the work. It was also shown me that my son W. C. White should be my helper and counselor, and that the Lord would place on him the spirit of wisdom and of a sound mind. I was shown that the Lord would guide him, and that he would not be led away, because he would recognize the leadings and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 3)
The assurance was given me: “You are not alone in the work of the Lord has chosen you to do. You will be taught of God how to bring the truth in its simplicity before the people. The God of truth will sustain you, and convincing proof will be given that He is leading you. God will give you of His Holy Spirit, and His grace and wisdom and keeping power will be with you....
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 4)
“The Lord will be your Instructor. You will meet with deceptive influences; they will come in many forms, in pantheism and other forms of infidelity; but follow where I shall guide you, and you will be safe. I will put My Spirit upon your son and will strengthen him to do his work. He has the grace of humility. The Lord has selected him to act an important part in His work. For this purpose was he born.”
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 5)
This word was given me in 1882, and since that time I have been assured that the grace of wisdom was given to him. More recently, in a time of perplexity, the Lord said: “I have given you My servant W. C. White, and I will give him judgment to be your helper. I will give him skill and understanding to manage wisely.”
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 6)
The Lord has given me other faithful helpers in my work. Many of my discourses have been reported and have been put before the people in printed form. Through nearly the whole of my long experience I have endeavored, day by day, to write out that which was revealed to me in visions of the night. Many messages of counsel and reproof and encouragement have been sent out to individuals, and much of the instruction that I have received for the church has been published in periodicals and books and circulated in many lands.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 7)
As the work has grown, the number of my helpers has increased.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 8)
Sister Marian Davis was a great helping copying my testimonies and in preparing for publication the manuscripts which I placed in her hand. I appreciated her help very much. She now sleeps in Jesus.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 9)
For eleven years Miss Maggie Hare was among my workers. She was a faithful and true helper. She returned to New Zealand. [She again connected with the work in 1911.]
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 10)
Recently Miss Minnie Hawkins, of Hobart, Tasmania, who was one of my copyists in Australia, has joined my staff of workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 11)
During the General Conference of 1901, Brother C. C. Crisler was impressed by the Spirit of God that I needed him in my work, and he offered his services. I gladly accepted his help. He is a faithful, efficient, and conscientious worker.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 12)
Dores Robinson has assisted in copying my testimonies, and he has been diligently preparing Life Incidents for publication.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 13)
Helen Graham is a good stenographer and helps Sister Sara McEnterfer and W. C. White in their work of correspondence.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 14)
Sister Sarah Peck was my bookkeeper and helper for a number of years. She has left us to engage in school work at College View. We now have as bookkeeper Brother Paul C. Mason.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 15)
Sister McEnterfer is my traveling companion, nurse, and helper in many ways.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 16)
Sister Mary Steward and her mother are with us now; and Mary, who for many years has served as proofreader in the offices at Battle Creek and Nashville, has united with my workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 17)
The work is constantly moving forward. We are making earnest efforts to place my writings before the people. We hope that several books will go to the press shortly. If I am incapacitated for labor, my faithful workers are prepared to carry forward the work.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 18)
Abundant light has been given to our people in these last days. Whether or not my life is spared, my writings will constantly speak, and their work will go forward as long as time shall last. My writings are on file in the office; and even though I should not live, these words that have been given to me by the Lord will still have life and will speak to the people. But my strength is yet spared, and I hope to continue to do much useful work. I may live until the coming of the Lord; but if I should not, I trust it may be said of me, “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.” [Revelation 14:13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 19)
The Lord Jehovah is the one to specify how the work shall be carried on under all circumstances. W. C. White has his commission. I have instructed him to labor untiringly to secure the publication of my writings in the English language first, and afterward to secure their translation and publication in many other languages. He should be respected in the performance of his duty. He has been chosen by the Lord to take charge of the publication of my writings, if I should lay off the armor. He has been long connected with the work, and God has given him experience and good judgment. I feel clear in entrusting my writings to his hand, because the Lord has fitted him for the work by giving him a decided experience. I rejoice that with the faithful helpers that God has given me, I am able to carry forward, in its many varied lines, the work given me to do.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 20)
Both my sons are engaged in giving this present truth to the world. I am glad that they are both connected with the publishing work.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 21)
I thank God for the assurance of His love and that I have daily His leading and guidance. I am very busy with my writing. Early and late, I am writing out the matters that the Lord opens before me. The burden of my work is to prepare a people to stand in the day of the Lord. The promise of Christ is sure. The time is not long. We must work and watch and wait for the Lord Jesus. We are called upon to be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. All our hopes have their foundation in Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 22)
Are our people reviewing the past and the present and the future, as it is unfolding before the world? Are they heeding the messages of warning given them? Is it our greatest concern today that our lives shall be refined and purified and that we shall reflect the similitude of the divine? This must be the experience of all who join that company who are washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. They must be arrayed in the righteousness of Christ. His name must be written in their foreheads. They must rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Christ has engraved the names of His people on the palms of His hands. He will never lose His interest in any dependent soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 23)
Say to the church members that there is need of thorough consecration to God. Let all understand that they must make a covenant with God by sacrifice. We need the blessings of the gospel every day and every hour. Every proof of the Lord’s power, His presence, and His love is to be recognized with grateful thanks. Happiness is to be achieved by the right action of the soul toward God. I thank the Lord for this precious thought. Let Him be glorified by the sentiments expressed and by the actions performed.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 24)
... Never have testimonies been more clearly brought before the people than those that have recently been traced by my pen. God bids me urge upon the attention of our people the importance of their study. Let this work begin now. Then, whether I am permitted to labor or am laid away to rest until Jesus comes, these messages are immortalized.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 25)
To my brethren I now say: “Speak words that will draw souls to Christ. Bring forth fruit in good works. ‘He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.’” [John 3:36.]
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 26)
Every conceivable thing will be brought in to deceive, if possible, the very elect; but the Lord will certainly take care of His work.
(22LtMs, Lt 371, 1907, 27)
Lt 372, 1907
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.] St. Helena, California October 24, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 201. + Dr. and Mrs. D. H. Kress Dear Brother and Sister Kress:
I would be very pleased to see and converse with you. I have an intense desire that you shall copy the pattern given in the Word of God. I wish that we were within reach of you. This cannot be; but what a comfort it is to know that in whatever part of the world we are, we can talk with God! Let us believe that God is always interested in us. Let us present our needs to Him in faith, believing that He who gave the best gift of heaven for us will not withhold anything that is for our eternal good. Let us take hold of His promises with the living assurance of faith. We need to have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 1)
“Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 18:19.] Believe this promise. Do not allow your faith to waver. May the Lord lead and guide and strengthen you is my prayer.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 2)
Dr. Kress, I entreat of you that you do not exact a high salary. If you do this, others will follow your example; and if this is allowed, we shall soon find that the sanitarium income will all be absorbed for the payment of salaries, and that there will be none to carry on the missionary work to be done in foreign countries.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 3)
I write you this because I understand that whereof I am speaking. The Lord is testing His people. My husband and I have passed over this ground; and because we did not ask a high wage, but were willing to work in self-denial and self-sacrifice, the Lord blessed us with His rich grace. If you will pursue a course of self-denial, you will be an example to others that will be a blessing to the work. In your work in Australia, the most effective sermon you preached was when you lived the principles of the truth in your own family and revealed your earnest devotion to the work. I know what I am talking about when I say this.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 4)
There should be more equality between the wage of the minister and the physician than there has been. Our ministers are expected to set an example of liberality to the church members, and their salary should be such that they can make many donations.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 5)
The gift of the book Ministry of Healing was given to the sanitariums to sustain them in their work. If skill and invention are used in getting this book into the hands of the people, I shall be very thankful. Both Ministry of Healing and Christ’s Object Lessons are books that the outside people need. I am desirous of seeing our schools and sanitariums helped by their sale.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 6)
I am pained at heart that these books are not being sold more disinterestedly for the benefit of our educational and sanitarium work. At the time of the camp-meeting, special efforts should be made by the students and others to bring these books into the hands of the people. In this work they will not only be doing good missionary work, but will be helping to relieve the indebtedness on our institutions. I cannot understand why this work is neglected in view of the fact that when the work has been entered into in the past, there have been such ready sales.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 7)
God’s presence with us, and His assurance of help, should always be appreciated. I am thankful for the precious light He is giving me. Although night after night I cannot sleep after twelve o’clock, I have the comfort of His presence, and this sustains me.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 8)
I am writing this letter by lamplight. Next month, I shall enter my eighty-first year. I can say with the psalmist, “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] I praise the Lord that He gives me my eyesight. I want to cultivate a thankful spirit every moment of my life. The Lord is good, and greatly to be praised.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 9)
My brother, I want you to be free in the Lord. I want your life to glorify God. Let us strive for perfect unity. “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 10)
All who serve the Lord Jesus are to be on an equality. With the angels they are to approach the throne of God and gaze of the glory of Christ. He, the Son of the infinite God, the express image of the Father, was in every way capable of commanding the universe; but He humbled Himself to become a man. He became a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. Let us walk worthy of our great brotherhood.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 11)
“Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.” [Matthew 13:43.] Then there will be no more dark passages in our experience. All darkness will have passed away, and the true Light will shine forth. There will be no more sorrow and pain when we have entered into the rest of the saints.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 12)
I pray that God will bless you both, Brother and Sister Kress, and all the members of your family.
(22LtMs, Lt 372, 1907, 13)
Lt 374, 1907
Faulkhead, N. D. Loma Linda, California November 10, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in LDE 107. Mr. N. D. Faulkhead Dear Brother Faulkhead:
I have not intentionally neglected to write to you, but I have had a large amount of writing to do. As some of our leading brethren depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, they create an opposition that brings on me a heavy burden. All manner of false statements will be made by those who submit themselves to the evil agencies, and the meeting of conditions brought about by falsehood requires the constant use of my pen.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 1)
I am thankful for the letter you have written me. I am glad that you are so well pleased with the location at Warburton. O how much more pleasant it is to be away from the confusion, the noise, and the unhealthfulness of the cities! How thankful we should be for such rural retreats. I thank the Lord whenever I think of the move made by the publishing house in Australia.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 2)
I am also pleased at the increased demand for our publications. I long to see the light of truth going forth as a lamp that burneth. Let the truth be taught in plain, simple language. Let the publications be multiplied and scattered as the leaves of autumn.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 3)
I wish that I might give you a description of the work being done at our publishing house at Mountain View. I have never before seen such convenient arrangements as they have in their new building, and the amount of matter that is going forth from their presses is marvelous.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 4)
We have now been here at Loma Linda about two weeks and have been constantly at work. I am writing in the sanitarium building. As we think of this beautiful place prepared for us by the Lord, we feel that we should do our best to honor and glorify God.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 5)
When the property was first brought to our attention, it did not seem to us possible that it should ever come into our possession. We could never have erected such grand buildings, nor could we have furnished them so elegantly with the best and most durable furniture—carpets, beds, bedding, table service, and everything complete. All was ready for us to step in and to begin our work. It was only necessary to build an addition for treatment rooms, and another addition for a dining room for the students and helpers. These are now completed, and the sanitarium work is going steadily forward.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 6)
Connected with the sanitarium is a training school for medical missionary evangelists. The school opened this year with nearly fifty students, and last Friday Elder Luther Warren arrived from Nebraska, bringing with him forty-six more, whom he had gathered in the eastern states. Sabbath morning I spoke to this company of new students and was pleased to see such an earnest, consecrated number of young people.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 7)
In the afternoon of the same day, I spoke again to a large congregation from the fifty-fifth, fifty-sixth, and fifty-eighth chapters of Isaiah. I felt a heavy burden resting on my soul as I opened before the people assembled the necessity of our arousing ourselves to give the last note of warning to save a perishing world.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 8)
In all our work we must maintain the simplicity of true godliness, carrying forward in right lines the work that must be done. We must get the light of Bible truth before many minds. The end is near, and we need an increase of faith. The work of God must be advanced. If we can only maintain the elevated character of Bible truth, such truth as sanctifies the receiver, we shall greatly rejoice in the Lord. We must give an education in steadfastness.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 9)
This place, Loma Linda, has wonderful advantages; and if those who are here will faithfully avail themselves of the advantages to become true medical missionaries, they will let their light shine forth to those that are around them. We must seek God daily for His wisdom to be imparted to us.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 10)
Christ has bequeathed to His followers a legacy of peace. We are to realize that the obtaining of our wisdom is through the great sacrifice that Christ made in giving Himself, and that God made in giving to our world the gift of His only begotten Son. He desires that His joy may remain in us, and that our joy may be full. If we are faithful to the grace given us, continuing in His love, abiding in Christ as the branch abides in the vine, we shall experience the joys of salvation. We are to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit, that we may be laborers together with Christ in perfecting a Christian character.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 11)
We need here to learn some of the lessons that we learned in Australia. Our young men and young women need to learn the value of time and to realize that there is always something that they can do in the use of their powers for the enlightenment of their mind. Thus we labored with much prayer to educate the students in Australia. The Lord wrought for us from the time that the school was first opened in Melbourne. Souls were converted and were made to realize the great gift of God to our world. Some of the youth were led to appreciate the Saviour’s love. Line upon line, precept upon precept, we labored to teach them in lessons of economy. We endeavored to train in habits of economy young people who had been accustomed to spend money freely in pleasure excursions, in sightseeing, or in other needless ways. We urged them to save their pennies and shillings, that they might have means to invest in the grand work of saving souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 12)
You remember how that at the time I was a helpless cripple with inflammatory rheumatism, and that when I desired to talk to the students, I had to be taken upstairs in a chair. You were often one to assist me. I have often thought of the experiences of those days.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 13)
You were a member of the Free Masons and were about to take one of the highest degrees in the order. You had made it your boast that no one, not even Sister White, could persuade you that it was your duty to sever your connection with this secret society.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 14)
One evening you called to see me. May Walling, who was looking after me, thought that it would be unwise for you to see me at that time. But you were insistent, so she helped me into an easy chair and permitted you to come into the room. You spoke to me very cautiously of the concern and the misgivings that some of your brethren felt regarding your connection with the Masonic order. Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon me, and under its deep movings I talked with you. I knew that you were in a time of test, and I could not bear to see you continue your connection with this order, attending their secret services and partaking of their late suppers. There was a higher order for you to join, where your ambitions, if they were in the right direction, need not be restrained.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 15)
While we were talking, May Walling came in to interrupt the conversation, fearing that I was being overtaxed; but I said to her, “May, I have a special word from the Lord for Brother Faulkhead, and I must give it to him.”
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 16)
You will remember how I was led out in earnest prayer for you. The Spirit of the Lord came upon you also, and twice I noticed that you turned very pale. I felt that unless you severed your connection with this society, you could not take the advanced steps that you should take in the service of God, but that you would on the other hand be bound up more and more closely to the secret society. It was for you a life-or-death question. In the room were good and evil angels striving for the mastery of your mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 17)
This intense struggle continued for one or two hours. Then I saw that an angel of God laid a hand upon your shoulder, and your face was lightened up with the glory of God. Your lips could scarcely utter the words, but you said, “I sever from this night my connection with the Free Masons, although it seems a terrible struggle.” With your eyes raised toward heaven you said, “O Lord, I give myself unreservedly to Thee. I turn from the temptation to reach the highest position in the order of Free Masonry. I surrender all to Thee, to become a true Christian.”
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 18)
You realized that you had been under the influence of the Spirit of God, and you said, “O that I might tell some of my brethren of this experience!” The trains had ceased to run, and you were obliged to walk to your home, a distance of several miles. You left me, praising the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 19)
After you had gone I closed my eyes in sleep, and I seemed to be in an atmosphere of heaven. It was represented to me that there was great rejoicing among the heavenly angels over the victory you had gained.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 20)
You afterward told me that twice during our interview I gave masonic signs, such as but few know. This must have been at the times when I observed a deadly paleness upon your countenance.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 21)
Perhaps you realize why I feel that the Lord has laid upon me the burden of your case, when you have been under temptation. You understand why we have greatly desired that you should maintain a connection with the work of God in some place. I am glad that you are once more connected with the office of publication.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 22)
There are many snares the enemy will lay for our feet, and those who are easily influenced are in danger of being led astray. I have ever been thankful for the experiences of the night of our interview, when our earnest, heart-broken prayers ascended to God, and you rejoiced in the victory you had gained. Will you please tell me if I have given an accurate account of this experience, and will you also please give me [in] writing your own testimony concerning it. I call it a miracle wrought by God, as a source of encouragement to you.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 23)
It is now daylight, and there is light in my soul, as these memories have been revived. You have great reason to praise the Lord with heart and soul and voice. Let your influence ever be high and noble and true. The Lord has been your protector.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 24)
Several times in the night season as your dangers have been presented to me, I have found myself repeating to you words from the Second Epistle of Peter:
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 25)
“Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 26)
“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 27)
“Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:1-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 28)
Here, instead of the Free Mason life insurance policy, is given to those who add grace to grace the promise of eternal life. Here is our eternal life insurance policy. “Make your calling and election sure.”“If ye do these things, ye shall never fall.” [Verse 10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 29)
“For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance....
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 30)
“For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For He received from God the Father honor and glory, when there came such a voice to Him from the excellent glory, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with Him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: knowing this first, that no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 31)
“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” [2 Peter 1:11-13, 16-21; 2:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 32)
I could not forbear bringing to your remembrance the remarkable experience through which you passed in Melbourne. I shall never forget it. I cannot now converse with you, but I have written you a long letter. We may not meet again in this life, but we have a hope beyond this world. Be of good courage in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 33)
“Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 34)
“Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent, that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” [2 Peter 3:11-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, 35)
Lt 376, 1907
Ballenger, E. S. Loma Linda, California November 13, 1907 Previously unpublished. Prof. E. S. Ballenger Dear Brother:
I suppose we are soon to make a final decision regarding the Paradise Valley Sanitarium property. I shall prefer to trust the property in the hands of the conference, rather than to give it into the possession of any individual, who would have the institution wholly, or largely, under his control. I cannot consent to have this property transferred to the control of individuals, under existing circumstances.
(22LtMs, Lt 376, 1907, 1)
Every one seems to feel that unless this institution is under the control of the conference, it is not loyal; and I have special light that we are not to let the property pass out from under our supervision. There is a work to be done in and about San Diego, from the sanitarium as a center, and we shall want to have a voice in directing and in carrying on this work.
(22LtMs, Lt 376, 1907, 2)
I feel that it is greatly to be regretted that there has been entertained such a strong feeling against Sister Gotzian. She is now invited by Brother Sutherland to go to Madison and help the brethren there in building up their sanitarium work. She will probably go to Paradise Valley to look after her interests there, and later on she may go to Madison.
(22LtMs, Lt 376, 1907, 3)
I write these lines to say that I think that if the Paradise Valley Sanitarium is to pass out of our hands, that it had better pass into the hands of the conference.
(22LtMs, Lt 376, 1907, 4)
Lt 378, 1907
Leading Men in the Southern California Conference Loma Linda, California November 11, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 322-325. + To the leading men in the Southern California Conference Dear Brethren:
God’s messengers are to sense their grave responsibility. They are to trust humbly in God. The Lord calls now for conscientious, humble minutemen. He invites them, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] The Lord Jesus came to our world as its Redeemer. He came as an example to all men. The world was in need of a correct representation of the future inhabitants of the city of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 1)
Every one who has responsibilities to bear will reveal by his daily life whether or not he is fitted for the office that he holds. Ministers of the gospel will be tempted to strive for worldly and commercial advantages; but worldly interests must be laid aside. The glory of God must be kept in view. The saving of souls is to be their all-important burden.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 2)
Men who live in the atmosphere of Christ’s presence will communicate the principles of heaven in conversation, in spirit, in tenderness, because they are learning of Christ. They will set a right example to their associates.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 3)
There are many who may be saved, if their prejudiced ideas can be removed, and if they consent to take upon them the yoke of Christ. All should bear in mind the words of Christ: “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 4)
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:13-16.]
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 5)
The special work of the leaders is to let the light so shine as to glorify God. As God’s messengers, they must have a thorough knowledge of Bible truth. Through watchfulness and prayer they must maintain such a connection with God that they may be the light of the world, and that prejudice may be removed from those who behold their consistent walk, and hear their teachings in regard to the Word of God. As a result of their influence and teachings, many will joyfully accept the present truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 6)
By kindness, by graceful behavior, the messenger of the Lord is to give to the world an evidence of what the truth has done for his soul. The very grace of his words will be a convincing evidence; for the Lord will impress the human mind, and many will submit to the sweet influences of the Spirit of God. Angels of God will impress the minds with sacred truths.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 7)
If believers fall in love with the truth in its purity, if they become free from all worldliness and self-exaltation, if they are all agreed, the influence of their lives will make an impression on unbelievers. Their reward may not always come in this life, but even in this world they will possess a peace and quietude, a rest in God, that passeth all understanding. Many will take knowledge of them, that they have been with Jesus and have learned of Him. In the future will come their exceeding great reward. In the heavenly courts they will hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] In their purity, their humility, and their meekness, they have represented Christ, and they are now entering into their eternal riches. They are washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. The joy of Christ is their exceeding great reward.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 8)
I write these things to you, my brethren, although all of you may not fully comprehend them. If I did not believe that God’s eye is over His people, I could not have the courage to write the same things over and over again. But I am bidden to say to the messengers, that no commercial spirit should be permitted to enter into their messages or into any part of their work. Said the angel, “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” [Isaiah 52:11.] These words were twice repeated during the representation that was given me.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 9)
Reformation Needed in the Churches
There is a work to be done in all our churches. The criticizing, the condemning, and the arbitrary forbiddings of men, whatever their position, is displeasing to God. During the past two years, the churches have had in some lines a wrong education.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 10)
God has a people whom He is leading and instructing. And the man who exercises the power to permit or to forbid, as his judgment may indicate, has given a representation of an unsanctified disposition.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 11)
The churches will be left powerless, if they are educated to obey the dictates of finite men instead of obeying the leadings of God. They must not be made to feel that before they can engage in any enterprise, they must first obtain permission of men. God bids me say, Cease from man, whose breath is in his nostrils, for wherein is he to be accounted for? Am not I to be consulted? Are finite, impulsive human agencies to have the control of My chosen ones?
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 12)
Our minds must be stayed on God, not on men who have lost their bearings and who do not discern that position cannot give a man unerring judgment. Every man is to fear and honor God. All are to reverence Him and to show their interest in His people. There must be a constant seeking for divine instruction. The Lord has not appointed one man to exercise his conscience for another man.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 13)
The Conference President
When a man is placed as president of a conference, it is not to be supposed that he is to mold and fashion the minds of the workers in that conference after his own human ideas; and that if men do not follow his ideas, they may be brought to terms by his saying to them, “You cannot receive wages from this conference, unless you do as I tell you.”
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 14)
It is the duty of the presidents of our conferences to deal kindly and impartially with all the workers under their charge. They should counsel with their fellow laborers, regarding the wisest course of action to be followed in their labors. In meekness and humility they should set an example of earnest zeal and integrity. But never should they assume the responsibilities that belong to Jesus Christ and endeavor to act as an infallible guide to other workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 15)
In the minds of many there is a false idea regarding the duties of a conference president. By a faithful example, it is his privilege to be a help spiritually to all the churches. He is to counsel with his ministering brethren, and with all the other workers, encouraging them to come into such relation to God that He can direct them in their appointed work. The first qualification for the president of a conference is that he himself has learned to seek and to receive counsel from God. “He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” [Micah 6:8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 16)
I am instructed to say that when a man swells to large, undue proportions, the people should assemble and in the name of the Lord release that man from office, and put some one in who will not suppose that he is sufficient in wisdom to define how every branch of the work shall be conducted, but one who will seek to find out what is his duty. It is the privilege of the conference president to say, “I have this responsibility. If I lost the sweet spirit of Jesus Christ, with its softening, subduing influence that is to constitute me a light amid the moral darkness, then I must no longer hold this sacred office.”
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 17)
I now call upon all our churches in Southern California to awake, before it is everlastingly too late. The self-competent men who do not humble their souls before God will, unless they repent, certainly be lost.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 18)
In some lines, the work must now be remedied, and the all-sufficiency of men must be outlived by a diligent turning to the Word of God. Oh, I am so sad, because of the example that has been given of a superiority, a dictatorial authority, that has been born of self!
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 19)
A real converting, reformatory change should now take place. Every one who fears God should search the Scriptures and carry with him into his day’s work a sense of his privileges under a Ruler who understands the purity of his motives. Minds must not be diverted from God to man. We must not fear the fear of the wicked and allow our consciences to be manipulated by men. Satan has been bearing rule in many minds. He will work through those that can be easily exalted and led to exercise their capabilities to repress or exalt others. The time has come when we must keep firm hold of the strong arm of Jehovah; for every species of delusion is being exercised. The prince of darkness is working through the minds of men who, in their lack of spiritual discernment, suppose that they are to rule the experience of the Lord’s little children, who are to look to God in a living, simple, working faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 20)
Satan is working to captivate the world. We have entered the last great conflict. But holy angels will guard the people of God, so long as they put their trust in His infinite power. Could our eyes be opened, we should see holy angels guarding the humble followers of Jesus, and evil angels working upon human minds to intercept the rays of light from the Word of God that should come to the people.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 21)
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of Me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.” [Isaiah 58:1, 2.]
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 22)
Read and study carefully the whole of the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. If positions of responsibility are entrusted to men who are distrustful of self and fear the Lord God, they will understand that it is a matter of great importance that they walk very humbly before God, and that they do not become careless or inattentive to His Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 23)
I am to say to the people of God, Take heed that ye be not deceived. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]
(22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, 24)
Lt 380, 1907
Reaser, G. W. Loma Linda, California November 11, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in ChL 24. Elder G. W. Reaser Dear Brother:
I have a special message for you. I feel very sad over your case; but it rests with you now, whether you will cleanse your soul from the deceptive influences that have led to your self-exaltation. The Lord gives to every man his work, and it was not your place to press upon others to follow exactly your ideas for them.
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 1)
If it is possible, I would free your mind from the deceptions that have taken hold of you. In your work, you have embraced too much responsibility. I must say to you that you should not fill the office of president of a conference, so long as you feel that you must mold and fashion the experience of others to conform to your own ideas. Your course has revealed that you lack wise perception. The fashioning of your character is such as needs reforming.
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 2)
I now charge you before God to make thorough work of repentance and reformation. You have but little time left in which to show the fruits of reformation. You may now so humble yourself before God that you may be trusted to represent the sacred character of His work. But your peculiarity of disposition is such that if you are in office, you will always be in danger of ruling arbitrarily. God forbids that one man shall have arbitrary jurisdiction over the minds of his brethren.
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 3)
Will you not now seek the Lord? Will you not now humble your heart before Him, and be thoroughly converted, and rebaptized? Unless you shall obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride of opinion, and over self-exaltation, you will never see the King in His beauty. I beg of you, my dear brother, to heed these words. The salvation of your soul is at stake. All self-pride must be humbled; the victory must be gained over all selfishness, over love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. I desire you to have eternal life, but the Lord has bidden me to speak, and I cannot daub with untempered mortar the deficiencies in your character. God is holy; He is true; and if you will now humble yourself before Him, He offers you pardon and hope. Will you not now, my brother, make diligent work for eternity?
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 4)
I did not want to write the plain messages that I have borne, but I felt that I could not be clear before God, unless I had borne a positive testimony to the things that God has revealed to me.
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 5)
Some of the work that you have been doing is very objectionable. It is impossible for men who are led of God to work harmoniously with you at all times.
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 6)
We are charged to labor under the Lord’s jurisdiction. The work of soul saving is all-important and should have first consideration. The third angel’s message is the message for this time. This is the great testing truth and is to be the burden of our message.
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 7)
Satan and his associates in evil are using every device possible in an effort to keep men in lines of worldly policy. He is glad to see the time pass, while God’s messengers are occupied with selfish interests and with commercialism. The message of God is a life-and-death question. All are to present the message in its power to convict and to convert souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 380, 1907, 8)
Lt 382, 1907
Reaser, G. W. Loma Linda, California November 9, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Reaser:
I am instructed to say to you that you are not a thoroughly converted man. You do not possess the traits of character that qualify a man to bear large responsibilities acceptably; for you cannot meet the requirements of the work that needs to be done. You have yet to learn that your will and your way are not supreme. You have brought into your work an exaltation of yourself.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 1)
The Southern California Conference is far behind in the lessons that they need to learn for time and for eternity.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 2)
Today, this message was given to me for you: “Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. You can not now be entrusted with the charge of souls. Tekel is written upon your works.” [See Daniel 5:27.]
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 3)
Your only hope for salvation is in dying to self. You are worshiping a false god. Self is your god, and you have carried self in a highly exalted manner. This has had a tendency to spoil, in the minds of the members of the conference, the high ideals of a true Christian.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 4)
But you may turn to the light. God loves every human being. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Christ is the gift of God to the human race. Such is God’s estimate of the value of the human soul. Christ is the expression of the measure of God’s infinite love. God does not love us because Christ died for us; but it was because of His love for us that He gave Christ as a ransom for our sins. Christ died a most humiliating death through the hatred of the very men whom He had come to save.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 5)
Christ was not only an expression of the Father’s love, but He was a channel to convey the love of God toward the human family.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 6)
To be in office seems to you to mean to be a voice for the people. The pure and holy truths of the Word of God are not brought into your experience. Your will has been the controlling power. Unless you can learn lessons in humility, you should not be encouraged to hold official responsibilities in the work of God. You make it exceedingly difficult for those who differ from you in judgment. So far as pure and undefiled religion is concerned, you act like a blind man. Unless there is a decided change wrought in your character, you will never see the kingdom of God. If the testimonies I send you are cast aside, and you continue in your self-confident attitude as ruler of the minds and actions of those who are engaged in work in the conference; if you continue to uproot the confidence of the people in the testimonies that God has been sending to His people for more than sixty years, you will go deeper and still deeper into darkness.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 7)
In your years of official service, there are valuable lessons that you might have learned. But because of your self-confidence, you have failed to learn the best methods of carrying on the Lord’s work. You have failed to show a proper respect to the ministers of God. You have failed to bring into your experience truth and sincerity.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 8)
This conference must no longer have the example of a leader who will exalt those who please him and pull down those who cannot conscientiously follow his plans for them. By humility, you might have learned lessons that would have enabled you to bring the church up to a high spiritual experience. But your oppression of the Lord’s chosen workers reveals that you are unfitted to prepare a people to stand amid the perils of the evil times, which we have already entered. We are in the day of the investigative judgment, and there are lessons that you must learn quickly, or it will be too late.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 9)
Read and study carefully, in Testimonies for the Church, Vol. VI, the chapter entitled, “Neglect by the Church and the Ministry,” beginning on page 296. Read also pages 305 and 306, of the same volume.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 10)
“All who consecrate body, soul, and spirit to God’s service will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical, mental, and spiritual power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of His own spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in heart and mind.”
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 11)
“Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily.” Thou shalt “call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am.” Thy light shall “rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday; and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones; and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” [Isaiah 58:8-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 12)
The world’s Redeemer came to our world to live the life of humanity, that humanity, through faith in Him, might lay hold of divinity, and thus escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. The agencies of Satan are always at work to obstruct and to hinder the work that is necessary in order for men to be successful over the powers of darkness. Christ was tempted in all points like as we are, yet He did not fail nor become discouraged. Ever before His mind was the result of His mission. He knew that truth would finally triumph in the great contest against evil.
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 13)
To His disciples He has said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.]
(22LtMs, Lt 382, 1907, 14)
Lt 384, 1907
Davison, Sister [L. E.] Loma Linda, California November 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. + Mrs. L. E. Davison
728 First Avenue, South
Sioux Falls, South Dakota Dear Sister:
I received your letter and will respond. I have been absent from my home at St. Helena for three weeks. During this time I have been carrying heavy burdens in connection with the work here in Southern California.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 1)
We see a great need, at present, for studying the Word of God. From one end of the world to the other the message of Christ’s righteousness is to be sounded from human lips, to prepare the way of the Lord. The closing message, even the third angel’s message, is to be proclaimed during this period of the world’s history. The youth, the middle-aged, and the aged are to act a personal part in preparing their own souls for the great event that is soon to take place, even the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven. In thus doing, they may reflect light upon many other souls.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 2)
The law of the Lord is to be magnified. In order that the claims of the law may have the greatest possible weight upon human minds, the law is to be presented in its true, sacred character. The message of Christ’s righteousness is to sound from one end of the earth to the other, to prepare a people to meet their Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 3)
The Word of God is truth. “It is written”—this is the gospel we are to teach the young. The plain words that came from the lips of Christ are to be repeated by every teacher. Christ, as our sin-pardoning Saviour, is to be spoken of by the aged and by teachers. Christ is to be believed in and revealed as our Saviour indeed—the One who pardons all our sins.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 4)
Through John the Revelator, Christ declares: “I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” [Revelation 22:16.] In the message that we are to bear, the character of God, as revealed in Christ, is to be manifested to the world. The call is to be sounded by human lips and is to be exemplified in the daily life of both the young and the elderly disciples.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 5)
“O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! Behold, the Lord God will come with strong hand, and His arm shall rule for Him: behold, His reward is with Him, and His work before Him. He shall feed His flock like a shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” [Isaiah 40:9-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 6)
With John the Baptist, we are to point men and women—both young and old—to Jesus, saying, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] The Lord desires every soul—the old, the middle-aged, and the young—to speak of Jesus, saying, “Behold the Lamb of God; behold Him just now.”“If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.” [John 7:37.] “The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 7)
There is a great work to be done in calling the attention of the minds of men to Christ. Every effort possible must be made to reveal Christ as the sin-pardoning Saviour. Christ is the One who gave His life in order that our sins might be pardoned.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 8)
Those who are acting as teachers of the youth are to educate their students to become helpers in the work of soul saving. Let them encourage the youth to save their pennies and their dimes for the missionary work. Let them teach the children to use contribution boxes, in order that the little ones, even in childhood, may learn the art of self-denial. Help them to understand that their self-denial, as practiced by the placing of gifts in these boxes, will help to support the work among a poor and needy class of people who are almost destitute of the advantages that we so freely enjoy. The sympathies of the children should be aroused in behalf of those in need of training in mission schools, where the Bible is made the foundation of all education. Even the very small children should be encouraged to unite with the older ones in saving their pennies, and in thus creating a fund to help in bringing to other less fortunate little children a knowledge of Jesus, who took little children in His arms and blessed them.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 9)
Parents, teachers, take up this line of work with enthusiasm. Provide the children with self-denial missionary boxes, and teach them to make freewill offerings of pennies, and of larger sums, as a gift for the support of workers who shall carry a knowledge of the truth of God’s Word into as many places as possible. Let the older members of the family and of the school dress neatly, yet inexpensively. Thus, through self-denying sacrifice, they will be able to make liberal gifts to the dear Saviour. Parents, youth, and little children—all may be helpers in the Lord’s work by denying self in order to bring advantages to the poor who need to be taught about the Saviour. Let us all lay hold of the Lord’s work more earnestly than we have ever done before and help advance the cause of God in this time of great necessity.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 10)
Dear children, may the Lord Jesus receive you. And He will, if you come to Him. Then your hearts will be opened to make gifts and offerings. Every member of the family will be blessed in the practice of self-denial for Christ’s sake. Try it, and test the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 384, 1907, 11)
Lt 386, 1907
Caro, E. R. Loma Linda, California November 15, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dr. E. R. Caro Dear Brother:
I have just received your letter, written in Chicago. I am sorry to hear that your health is not good.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 1)
I still advise you, as I did in my former letter, to come to California as soon as possible and meet your mother. We are doing our best to find an opening for your wife, where she can earn a living for herself and the children.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 2)
During the past year, your family have been pleasantly located in a neat little cottage, close by my own house. We have furnished them with milk and with garden produce. Some of the time, your mother has been busy, nursing confinement cases nearby. This has helped them a little; but they have felt that they must get some permanent employment somewhere. It takes time, as you know, to get settled in any line of business.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 3)
If you would cease going from place to place, and come to California to unite in labor with your mother, it would be the best thing you could do. Your mother is hoping to attend the classes in the school here at Loma Linda and then engage in the work in nearby cities during this winter. She desires to minister to those in need of help and instruction. I believe it would be well for you both if you could labor together.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 4)
I believe your wife to be a thoroughly converted, Christian woman. She is trying faithfully to perform her duties as mother to the children. The children are well behaved and obedient. Your wife is now in Oakland, hoping that she may be able to earn a livelihood for herself and the children by giving massage. She is strong and looks the very picture of health. The only thing that grieves her is your absence from your family. She will endeavor to find some good helper to come in and care for the children while she is away giving treatments.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 5)
We trust that your wife may be successful in this line of work. May Walling, about a year ago, started to give treatments and has done very well for the past year. When she began the work, she was not well. Now her skin is clear, her courage good, and she is in perfect health.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 6)
Come, my brother, either to our home in St. Helena or here to Southern California. We may find you an opening where you can do a good work as a physician. If you need treatment, you might be greatly benefited by Dr. Rand at St. Helena, who, as you know, is a most successful practitioner. We shall likely be here at Loma Linda for a few weeks yet; and if you come at once, we might see you in Southern California before we leave.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 7)
The people here to do not know the unpleasant circumstances of your life. They suppose that you are broken down in health and are, for a time, traveling for your health. Come, and let your mother be your doctor for a time.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 8)
We consider that you have an excellent family. The oldest girl helps greatly in caring for the two younger children. There is love and harmony among them. But the children frequently inquire, “Where is father?” and “Will he not soon be well enough to come and see us?” I write you these particulars in order that you may understand that your children expect that you will come to them as soon as you are well enough to travel.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 9)
While you know that your course has not always been straight, yet if you will seek the Lord, He will accept your repentance and will write forgiveness in His books.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 10)
We shall continue to look after your entire family and see that they do not suffer for the necessities of life. I feel so sorry for your children.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 11)
I understand your position, and I would say to you, Come to your Saviour as a little child. Repent, and be converted. The Lord is soon to come, and I greatly desire that you may become one of the Lord’s little children. I will do all I possibly can to help you and to help your family. Look to Jesus, and He will be your helper. May the Lord find in you a repentant son.
(22LtMs, Lt 386, 1907, 12)
Lt 388, 1907
Hirschmiller, Charles I. Loma Linda, California November 19, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in UL 337. Mr. Charles I. Hirschmiller
South Lancaster, Massachusetts Dear Brother:
I have received your letter and have read it. I would encourage you, my brother, to bear in mind that Jesus Christ gave His precious life for you. He will be your helper, if you trust in Him. Commit the keeping of your soul unto Him who gave His own life to a cruel, shameful death, in order to redeem every soul who will receive Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 1)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.... He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:1-5, 10-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 2)
“For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, I will declare Thy name unto My brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee. And again, I will put my trust in Him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given Me. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily He took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took on Him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 2:10-18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 3)
You, my brother, are one that is tempted. Christ Jesus was made sin for us, that He might prove the righteousness of His own life in our behalf. Through faith in Christ, we are all accepted in the Beloved.
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 4)
As “partakers of the heavenly calling,” let us “consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; who was faithful,” the apostle Paul declares, “as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore as the Holy Ghost saith, Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness.... Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.” [Hebrews 3:1, 2, 6-8, 12-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 5)
Now, my brother, we have met with many souls who, in their Christian experience, have passed through circumstances similar to those mentioned in your letter. You must not trust to your impressions of unbelief. You must put your confidence in One who has given His life for you. Then you will be numbered among the receiving ones—among those who believe and receive His Word, and walk not by feeling, but by faith.
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 6)
The Word of God is true. Faith takes hold of the divine Word; whereas feeling is naught else but something that eclipses faith in a “Thus saith the Word of the living God.”“If thou wilt enter into life,” Christ says, “keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:17.] Live out My law “as the apple of thine eye.” God’s commandments, obeyed, are “life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.” [Proverbs 7:2; 4:22.]
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 7)
Of His own work Christ says: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek.”“He hath sent Me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 8)
Wonderful is the work which God designs to accomplish through His servants, that His name may be glorified. My brother, you must not sink down into discouragement. Lay hold of God’s promises with the faith of a little child. True faith in the Lord Jesus will bring into your life rich blessing. Through the humble receiver of His promises, by faith, God allows His blessings to flow out freely to the world. Cast yourself in humility at the foot of the cross of Christ, and do the will of Him who has died for you. Every worker in whose heart Christ abides, through belief of the truth as it is in Jesus, will be a representative of his Saviour, to show forth God’s love before all with whom he may come in contact. In his human weakness, through faith, he may lay hold of divine strength and become a laborer together with God—a blessing to himself and to his fellow men through the exercise of faith in the Source of all strength, from which flow never-ceasing currents of blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 9)
My brother, I beseech of you to look away from yourself unto Christ, and live. Put your trust in the One who loves human agencies. Let your dependence be wholly on Christ. He is able to save to the uttermost all who come unto Him. Believe, believe that Christ will pardon all your transgressions, and forgive all your sins. Humble yourself as a little child, and Christ will receive you and bless you and strengthen you. Do not think unbelief, or talk unbelief; but take God at His Word, and leave yourself in His hands, to be taught and led of Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 10)
My brother, a great work is to be accomplished in the world; and if you will believe, you may act your part in this work. “Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassion every man to his brother.” [Zechariah 7:9.] It is God’s purpose to manifest through His people the principles of His kingdom. In life and character they may reveal these principles. His purpose is to separate His people from the customs, the habits, and the practices of the world. Because He loves them, He is seeking to bring them near unto Himself, that He may make known unto them His will.
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 11)
Comfort your heart, my brother, by believing that the Lord wants you to be saved, and that you are His child. Do not think that your mind must be in a certain state of feeling, or else you are not accepted of God. Your faith must rely not on feeling, but on the promises of God. Walk by faith in a “Thus saith the Lord.” Rest your case with the Lord, and believe in His Word. Believe, oh, believe the Word of the Lord; and walk by faith, not by sight. Consecrate yourself anew to God. Be loyal and true to a “Thus saith the Lord,” and stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ doth make you free. Believe, believe, and walk by faith. Trust in the Lord, and you will see of His salvation.
(22LtMs, Lt 388, 1907, 12)
Lt 390, 1907
Butler, G. I. “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” San Diego, California November 29, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 11MR 168. Dear Brother Butler:
I am much pleased to hear of your union with Sister Grainger, whom I regard highly as a sincere Christian, and who will certainly be a comfort and blessing to you. Your wife can be a help to you in many ways.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 1)
I hope you will be of good courage in the Lord. During the Union Conference soon to convene in your field, there will be many important matters for you to consider. Wise plans must be laid for the advancement of the work. Sometimes I have wished that I might be present at this meeting; but there are matters of equal importance to be attended to in the Southern California Conference, and so I am remaining here. I do not know how long I shall regard it as my duty to labor in the southern part of this state. We greatly desire to help the people all we can; and, the Lord willing, we may visit the churches in Los Angeles, Glendale, Loma Linda, Riverside, Redlands, and possibly Fernando and other places. With the help of the Lord, I may be strengthened to do a little. I desire to see the work advancing as it should in this part of the field.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 2)
I greatly desire that our brethren in responsibility shall understand how to carry on the work intelligently. Oh, for the help of the Lord at every step! We are to work for souls in darkness, who have not had the light of the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 3)
I long to see very many laborers at work for those who know not the evidences of our faith. Many have received great light through hearing the three angel’s messages, and now they should proclaim these messages in all parts of the world. I desire to do my part and to open the way for others to carry the light of truth. May the Lord help us to put the armor on. The believers are to unite in the solemn work of giving the last note of warning to the world.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 4)
I hope, Brother Butler, you will keep of good courage in the Lord. Your help is needed. Be strong in the Lord, yea, be strong. It is your privilege to keep your feet in the path of righteousness. You and your wife are to be of good courage in the Lord. I respect you both as laborers together with God. There will arise some things that will prove to be a trial to you; but you must meet all these things in the Spirit of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 5)
It has been presented before me in the night season, Brother Butler, that you have not been wise in placing so great confidence in the ability of Brother Ford to carry heavy responsibilities in connection with the management of the Nashville Publishing House. There are some things connected with the management of a printing office that he does not fully understand, and he never should have been given such large responsibility in matters regarding which he has not had a practical knowledge. There are certain lines of work, like the circulation of our books and periodicals, in which in past years he has revealed considerable tact and skill. But a sad mistake was made when he was given so much responsibility in connection with the publishing work. He has not always managed wisely.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 6)
It requires much wisdom and grace and practical experience to manage wisely so important a business as a large publishing house; and too much responsibility should not be centered in one man. In Brother Ford’s case, I fear that the effort to carry too many burdens has hindered him from growing in grace. His soul has not always been surrounded with a heavenly atmosphere that would encourage the workers in the office to maintain a vital connection with God. I am so sorry that he has been given so many responsibilities that he has developed objectional traits of character. For some time he has not been developing a Christian character as he should. He has been carrying altogether too many burdens. Changes need to be made.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 7)
In our office at Nashville, there is need of far more spirituality, far more Christian courtesy, than has been manifested. We need, oh, so much, to live in the light of the Lord. We all need to study from cause to effect and watch unto prayer. It is a great work that we have been called upon to perform, and we must hide ourselves in God. We have the old landmarks of truth, experience, and duty to point out the way; yet every power of darkness will be brought to bear in an effort to confuse us, if possible. But I will not write more on this strain.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 8)
The three angels of Revelation fourteen are represented as flying in the midst of heaven, proclaiming the words of truth to a perishing world. They symbolize the work for this time that is to be done by all who believe these messages. The three angels’ messages are linked together. There are many evidences of the abiding, ever-living truth of these messages, which mean so much to those who have long had the light of present truth. We should sacredly cherish these evidences. Satan is seeking to cast a shadow about the messages, so that the people of God shall not clearly discern their import, their time and place; but they will live as long as time shall last and will be proclaimed with increasing power. The influence of these messages is constantly deepening and widening.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 9)
We are to be sanctified through the truth. There is an abundance of work to be done by those under the guidance and control of the Holy Spirit. God can use men and women of consecration to open the way to reach hearts with His truth. And from many missionary fields there come urgent calls for more workers who are able to understand the power of the truth imparted in its simplicity, and who are also able to see and realize the necessity of establishing centers of influence and training. A great work is to be done in a short time. We who have long been in the message will press closer and still closer together in helping to perform this work.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 10)
The light is to shine forth in clear, distinct rays. Health institutions will need to be established in many places. And in this work, we are to remember that it is well to establish small sanitariums in connection with our training schools. A great work is to be done in the sale of Ministry of Healing and Christ’s Object Lessons. The light in these books is to shine in many homes. Manifold instrumentalities for good are to co-operate in ministering the Word and in warning the inhabitants of the world that Christ is coming the second time with power and great glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 11)
I must now close. I am so sorry that I have had so much to do while traveling about during the past month, that I have neglected to tell you of my pleasure in learning of your happiness. Be of good courage in the Lord. Be full of hearty, good cheer. Let us hear words of courage from you, by pen and voice. And may the Lord sanctify and bless you abundantly.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 12)
With Christian love.
(22LtMs, Lt 390, 1907, 13)
Lt 391, 1907
Workman, Mabel White “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California November 25, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mrs. W. Workman
Takoma Park, Washington, D.C. My dear Granddaughter:
You must excuse my delay in replying to your letter. I have had to read and answer many important letters since receiving yours. Dores has returned to St. Helena, which leaves me without a copyist, unless I call on Mr. Crisler to do the work. I am reluctant to do this, as this would call him off from his important work of completing the collection he is making relating to the work in the southern field.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 1)
This November has been the most beautiful month I can recall to mind for this season of the year. The mornings and evenings have been a little cool, but agreeable; the air is perfect. Some day there has been a strong wind. But you know what the climate is like, for you have lived here. We might have held camp-meetings all this month, the weather has been so beautiful. While at Loma Linda we had one thunderstorm, and for several hours a strong wind blew. I was taken through the rain in a rolling chair to the place of meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 2)
Last night I had a strange experience. I seemed to be in the company of several persons. I had something of value in my hands, which I desired to keep. But some were trying to get it from me. I would partially let my treasure go, and then forbiddings would come telling me not to do so. Three times it was wrested from me; but finally I recovered it and held it fast. I would not let it go.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 3)
Today, Monday, we expect to hold a council to consider what shall be done with the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Your father will be here, and several will assemble from different points to make a thorough examination of the business matters relating to the institution. I must keep my mind clear that no mistakes may be made.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 4)
Last Sabbath I spoke for one hour at the church at San Diego. The Lord gave me freedom. No one left the house during the service, and all listened intently. I spoke from the fifteenth chapter of John, and the first verse: “I am the true Vine, and My Father is the husbandman.” I was surprised that I could speak with such strength and that I had such clearness of mind. I feel very grateful to God that He still gives me a testimony to bear to His people.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 5)
I see a great deal to be done in Southern California. The towns of Redlands and Riverside need special help. The Lord may give me His word for them. If He lays any portion of the work on me, I hope I shall not leave the field until I have done what He desires. Sometimes I think I am too weak to speak to the people; but when I stand upon my feet, I find that my voice is clear and strong. I praise the Lord for this.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 6)
We were a little late one morning in starting for the early morning meeting. I took your father’s arm and walked down the two long flights of stairs and up the ascent to the meeting place. I kept step with your father as we went. I could not keep from thanking God for the strength which enabled me to do this without any inconvenience. I kept saying, The blessing of the Lord is upon me. My heart doth rejoice, and my lips shall speak of His great goodness, and tell of His power. Praise His holy name. On the 26th day of this month I shall be eighty years old.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 7)
All I want in this world is to do my appointed work. I do not worry; come life or death, I am at peace with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 8)
“Here is the patience of the saints,” the apostle John writes, “here are they that keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus Christ. And I heard a voice from heaven, saying, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth; yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 9)
“And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud sat one like unto the Son of man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle. And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him that sat upon the cloud, Thrust in Thy sickle, and reap, for the time is come for Thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. And He that sat on the cloud thrust in His sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 10)
“And another angel came out of temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe. And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great wine press of the wrath of God. And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the wine press, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.” [Revelation 14:12-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 11)
These are solemn words. When the storm of God’s wrath breaks upon the world, there will be terrible revelations made to those who have built their house upon the sand.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 12)
O that our people would arouse and put away all weakness of the flesh and spirit. It was for this fallen world that Christ wept and prayed. The heart of infinite love was stirred as He saw souls being ensnared and selling themselves for worldly gain. “Lay not up for yourselves treasures on the earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where moth and rust doth not corrupt and where thieves do not break through and steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light; but if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 13)
“No man can serve two masters; for either he will love the one and hate the other; or else he will hold to the one and despise the other; Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought ... what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold, the fowls of the air: for they sow not neither do they reap ...; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin; and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon, in all his glory, was not arrayed like one of these.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 14)
“Wherefore if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; shall He not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Wherefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (for after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow; for tomorrow will take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” [Matthew 6:19-34.]
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 15)
This chapter is full of encouragement and help to the follower of Christ. We find everywhere those who need just this instruction. If we do not come into right relation to God, while claiming to be His children, our influence will be misleading. “Every good tree bringeth forth good fruit.” [Matthew 7:17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 16)
Our spiritual conflicts might often be called our spiritual rebellions. It is the heart’s lack of submission to the will of God that so often brings us into difficulty. We want our own way, but this often means rebellion against God’s way. We need to do as Christ did—wrestle with the Father in prayer for strength and for power to make Him known in our words and actions.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 17)
“And again He entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised abroad that He was in the house. And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them; no, not so much as about the door: and He preached the word unto them. And they came unto Him bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. And when they could not come nigh unto Him for the press, they uncovered the roof where He was; and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed whereon the sick of the palsy lay. When Jesus saw their faith He said, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 18)
“But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone? And immediately when Jesus perceived in His spirit that they reasoned so within themselves, He said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? Whether is it easier to say unto the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee, or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed and walk? But that thou mayest know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins (He saith to the sick of the palsy) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go unto thine house. And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all, insomuch that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.”“But when the multitudes saw it, they marveled and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.” [Mark 2:1-12; Matthew 9:8.]
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 19)
“And He went forth again by the seaside; and all the multitude resorted unto Him; and He taught them. And as He passed by He saw Alphaeus, the son of Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow Me; and he arose and followed Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 20)
“And it came to pass that as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners came also together with Jesus and His disciples: for there were many, and they followed Him. And when the scribes and Pharisees saw Him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto them, How is it that He eateth with publicans and sinners? When Jesus heard it, He said unto them, ... I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:13-17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 21)
Never, never distrust your Saviour. Take your trials and perplexities to Him. Christ came to call the sinners, not the righteous, to repentance. If you feel yourself a sinner, you are one whom Christ came to save.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 22)
Christ placed Himself where He could, by word and work, become a minister of healing and blessing to the sick. His example is to be prayerfully followed by His servants. Instead of devoting their time to hovering over the churches, they should be bearing a continual message to those who have not heard the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 23)
Christ the sin-pardoning Saviour was a wellspring of life wherever He was. In relieving the sick and the suffering, He was fulfilling His mission to men. The church on earth is to practice His virtues. Church members are first to be converted to obedience to His commandments; then as obedient children they will minister of their abundance to the suffering and the needy. There will be an example given of true Christian self-denial and self-sacrifice. The time now devoted to pride of dress and love of the world will be given to the uplifting of humanity. There are souls perishing in ignorance of the truth. When God’s Word is presented in simple faith, Christ will make the Word effectual.
(22LtMs, Lt 391, 1907, 24)
Lt 392, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California December 1, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in PC 257-258. Elder and Mrs. J. E. White Dear Children:
I thank the Lord that He has sustained me on this journey. I have done much important writing. On Sabbath a week ago, and again last Sabbath, I spoke in the church at San Diego. At both services the house was crowded full. A week ago I spoke from the fifteenth chapter of John, beginning with the words, “I am the True Vine, and My Father is the Husbandman.” Last Sabbath I spoke on the third chapter of Revelation. The whole congregation listened with intense interest.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 1)
I am hoping and praying that I may understand my duty. It seems to me that I must remain in this section of the country until after Elder Haskell arrives, and then I may not be able to leave for some weeks to come. An important work has been begun in the vicinity of Riverside. The third-year class of students at Loma Linda went over to Riverside a few weeks ago and did their first practical work in canvassing for Ministry of Healing. There were eight in the class, and their object in visiting the homes of the people was more to become acquainted, and to talk of the work at Loma Linda, than it was to sell books for profit. However, in the course of their conversation, they would usually introduce Ministry of Healing, tell the story of the book, and then offer to sell it as a volume that contained the principles taught in the school at Loma Linda. In this way, about seventy copies of the book were placed in the homes of the people in a little over one week; and the students made many, many friends for the work at Loma Linda. Wherever they went, they sought to leave a good impression. We believe they did a good work. They were wide-awake, and full of courage in the Lord, and seem to have met with success.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 2)
The second-year class will undertake a similar work soon, while the third-year class continue their studies at Loma Linda. Later on, it is hoped that some members of the first-year class can go out. Thus each of the several students in the school will assist in working Riverside. I suppose you have seen that place. It is a grand city, and the managers of the Loma Linda school are seeking to gain a foothold there by introducing first the Ministry of Healing. Afterward, they will send out students with Christ’s Object Lessons. They will earnestly endeavor to handle these books wisely.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 3)
A similar work is to be carried on in the places besides Riverside. We are all praying that the Lord may abundantly bless these first working forces going out from the school. It means much to our Loma Linda training school and sanitarium, not only with regard to the good impression that they hope to make on the minds of the people, but in a financial way as well. Many new students have come in, and considerable money will be needed to care for them all, and at the same time keep up the other running expenses of the school and sanitarium. At Loma Linda there are now over a hundred under training for medical missionary work.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 4)
Oh, how anxious I am to have a small press in operation at Loma Linda, so as to print the discourses that shall be given in the surrounding cities! I have mentioned the matter to Brother Henry W. Kellogg; for he has a special interest in this line of work. We need a small press for printing notices and for bringing out in printed form, for use in surrounding cities, discourses that will be given from time to time. Now is our time to work. We expect to connect with the Women’s Christian Temperance Union in some lines of service.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 5)
I cannot feel free to return to St. Helena until I see the work fully in running order. The Lord has given light that these cities in the San Bernardino Valley should be worked. The time has come to do this work, and we are to have wise managing forces to carry the work forward intelligently.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 6)
We have been at Paradise Valley Sanitarium for over a week. There are but few patients here. We expect to have more when we are really in running order. We shall remain here until we see of the salvation of God in this institution. If we take God at His word, we shall see of His salvation. We must receive His light and blessing, that we may have something to impart.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 7)
My children, there never was a time when we needed more to encourage faith than at the present time; for there are perplexities on the right hand and on the left.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 8)
We have just had a council meeting with Brother and Sister Wessels and Brother and Sister Cummings. Brother J. J. Wessels is manager of the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, and Dr. R. S. Cummings is our new physician. His wife will act as matron. These souls, we sincerely hope, will walk humbly before God. If they put their trust in the Lord, and walk in His counsel, they will be strengthened and greatly blessed. Satan is watching every opportunity to tempt and worry souls until their courage is gone. But the Lord is a stronghold in time of trouble.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 9)
We expected to leave this place tomorrow morning—Monday—but we see that we must have clearer and more distinct views of our future work before we go. W. C. White is trying to place the work on a better basis.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 10)
Often the question is asked, “What shall I do?” It is the privilege of every soul who would be saved to talk with God in humility of heart, that he may receive grace to impart. Men and women may seek the Lord and commune with Him and then impart the blessings received in words of thanksgiving and praise. As we receive of the abundant grace of God, we may impart hope to other hearts. Thus we are co-operating with the holy angels. We need the melting power of God, that we may draw with Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 11)
I will now say, God bless and comfort you and all that comprise your family.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 12)
In much love,
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 13)
Your mother.
(22LtMs, Lt 392, 1907, 14)
Lt 393, 1907
Workman, Mabel White Loma Linda, California November 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 4MR 356. + Dear Mabel:
I have been very much occupied with my writings early and late, and many nights have been unable to sleep after one o’clock. I am not pleased with this kind of experience. I spend much time in earnest prayer for help and strength and wisdom to be guided aright at every point. I desire to view things in a clear light and handle wisely the difficulties that present themselves, that Satan cannot gain the advantage.
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 1)
I see so many things that ought to be done that are not done to bring the truth before the people. Commercialism is occupying the means and minds of many. For the sake of gain many are accepting the tempting offers of the world. My heart is made sad as I see this; for this commercialism is grasping the talents that should be earnestly employed in opening the Scriptures to souls who are in darkness because they have not a correct knowledge of the Word.
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 2)
The Son of God came to our world, and took humanity upon Himself, that fallen men and women might have the privileges of the children of God. “You hath He quickened that were dead in trespasses and sins,” the apostle writes, “wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air; the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God who is rich in mercy, for the great love wherewith He hath loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved), and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace, in His kindness toward us through Jesus Christ. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast; for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works; which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:1-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 3)
The disciple John bears testimony of Christ, “That which we have heard from the beginning, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and our hands have handled of the Word of life: for the life was manifested, and we have seen it and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father and was manifested unto us.
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 4)
“That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you; that ye also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son, Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of Him and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all.
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 5)
“If we say we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: but if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another; and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” [1 John 1:1-10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 6)
It is the gospel and the gospel alone that will sanctify the soul. And this makes possible to the receiver that life “that measures with the life of God.” This is the record that God has given us, even eternal life; and this life is in His Son. He who is a partaker of the divine nature will escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. His faith in Christ as the Life-giver gives him life. “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” [1 John 5:13.]
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 7)
This life of sanctification and joy in believing is for every soul who in faith will claim the promises of the Word of God and draw upon divine strength for the work of overcoming.
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 8)
It is the privilege of the Christian to be strong under difficulty, by keeping his eye fixed upon the Pattern. This is one way in which we prove the Lord. Let your faith work by love and purify the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 393, 1907, 9)
Lt 394, 1907
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California November 24, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder and Mrs. J. E. White Dear Children Edson and Emma:
I received your letter yesterday and will respond at once. I sincerely hope that you will be careful of your health, and not place yourselves where you will be unable to labor.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 1)
The twenty-sixth of this month I shall be eighty years old. My mind is clear, my hand firm and steady, and my heart full of thanksgiving to God. I have peace of mind; for I refuse to allow my mind to be troubled. When traveling, I do not sleep as many hours as I would be pleased to. During the past night, I was unable to sleep after twelve o’clock. I thought of you and of how many hours of wakefulness you have passed through. I am thankful that I have no pain. I am active. Can go up and down stairs, all over the Sanitarium as readily as any of the helpers. I thank the Lord for this blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 2)
It has been some time since I have visited Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Last Sabbath I spoke in San Diego. The church was crowded. Many unbelievers were present. I spoke from John fifteen—“I am the True Vine.” [Verse 1.] Every one seemed much interested. I spoke for one hour and then prayed after speaking. The Lord gave me freedom, for which I thank Him. I wish now, more than I have ever wished at any other period of my life, to speak in messages of warning to the people. The end is near, and I am earnestly desirous of making every effort in my power to give the last message of warning to the world. I have an appointment out for next Sabbath to speak in the San Diego church again.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 3)
Today W. C. White is with the brethren in council meeting over matters connected with this sanitarium. I have had my anxieties and am not always able to overcome them; but I desire to have that peace and trust in my heavenly Father that will enable me to keep my heart full of thanksgiving. I think that children of God ought to keep the peace of Christ. I am thankful that I can speak the word of life to the people. I desire to reflect all the sunshine possible by giving expression to the gladness and the joy that every Christian ought to have in his heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 4)
The higher Christian life is to obey God’s commandment: “Be careful for nothing; but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” And then rest in the promise that “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and mind through Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 4:6, 7.] Our part is simply to trust in God. His part is to keep the soul in perfect peace. I will not worry; for then I cannot retain that peace which passeth all understanding, which shall keep our minds and hearts through Christ Jesus. We all need to express our thanksgiving to God for His keeping power. Why do we not express more often our thanksgiving to Him for His saving grace?
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 5)
When I consider God’s expressions of love to me, why should I be silent in the church? He is our Father. He loves us. Then in our testimonies in the church, why should we not express our restfulness in His great love, an expression of which He has given in the gift of His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Shall we not consider that thanksgiving and praise is due to God in the testimonies we bear to Him? Would it not be one special way of letting our light shine forth, by expressing our thanksgiving for the wonderful Gift? Why should praise and thanksgiving be withheld so often by us when we meet in the church to worship God? Why should we not give expression to His goodness and love? He, the Lord, so loved perishing souls, that He gave His only begotten Son to save them; and this gift means eternal life to every soul who appreciates the gift. Then why not express in character, in words, also in thanksgiving, your love to God because of the great love Christ has revealed in bearing the punishment for your souls. By this act He has expressed to every member of the human family His lovable will to save you, that you may become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 6)
When the believing, human family shall become children of faith, sons and daughters of God, why do they not express their gratitude? Why are so many mournful testimonies borne of His kindness, when we might express thanksgiving for His tender love and continual blessings? Heaven is full of praise and thanksgiving.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 7)
Christ, in His great goodness, died a shameful death of exquisite suffering to show His will toward us, that we should live. He has paid the price with His own life and has rescued the condemned soul. The Christian, by receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as his pattern and model of character, shall be able to overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of [his] testimony. Then should not words of thanksgiving be heard in the congregations, even of large assemblies? “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification.” [1 Thessalonians 4:3.] A full and free expression of His great love is appropriate. Let your light shine in expressions of thanksgiving to God and the Lamb. Christ’s watchcare is over every soul that will put his trust in the Lord and give expression to words of praise in the congregation of the saints.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 8)
It is the will of our God that every professed Christian should bear testimony to the love that has been revealed in the gift of the Saviour. God’s name should be glorified in His great gift to our world to redeem fallen man. And as the soul takes it in more and more fully, there will be renewed, daily expressions of thanksgiving and praise from converted, sanctified lips. As we receive Christ Jesus, we shall walk in His footsteps and glorify His name. Daily we are to become more and more Christlike in character.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 9)
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (for the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of Him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: but if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” [1 John 1:1-9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 10)
We are nearing the close of 1907. “We are standing upon the threshold of great and solemn events. Prophecies are fulfilling.... Everything in our world is in agitation. There are wars, and rumors of wars. The nations are angry, and the time of the dead has come, that they should be judged. Events are changing to bring about the day of God, which hasteth greatly. Only a moment of time, as it were, yet remains. But while already nation is rising against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, there is not now a general engagement. As yet the four winds are held until the servants of God shall be sealed in their foreheads. Then the powers of earth will marshal their forces for the last great battle.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 11)
“Satan is busily laying his plans for the last mighty conflict, when all will take sides. After the gospel has been proclaimed in the world for nearly two thousand years, Satan still presents to men and women the same scene that he presented to Christ. In a wonderful manner he causes the kingdoms of the world in their glory to pass before them. These he promises to all who will fall down and worship him. Thus he seeks to bring men under his dominion.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 12)
“Satan is working to the utmost to make himself as God, and to destroy all who oppose his power. And today the world is bowing before him. His power is received as the power of God. The prophecy of the Revelation is being fulfilled, that ‘all the world wondered after the beast.’” [Revelation 13:3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 13)
Let us be true and faithful. We cannot afford to make a mistake now. Most earnest attention must be given now to the education that will impart a saving knowledge of heavenly grace and that will conform the life and character to the divine similitude. Purity of soul is to be woven into the life like threads of gold. This alone is of true value. We must bring Bible principles into our daily conduct. May God bless and strengthen and sustain you, is the prayer of your Mother.
(22LtMs, Lt 394, 1907, 14)
Lt 395, 1907
Kress, Br-Sr. [D.H.] Refiled as Lt 26, 1908.
Lt 396, 1907
Wessels, Brother and Sister [J. J.]; Cummings, Brother and Sister [R. S.] “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California December 1, 1907 Previously unpublished. Brother and Sister J. J. Wessels, and Brother and Sister R. S. Cummings:
You have been placed in positions of responsibility. Work together in the name of the Lord. If you see things that need correcting, come close to God by faith, that you may recognize the leadings of His Holy Spirit. You will have to deal with physical and mental disease, and God would be pleased to see you all yoked closely together in carrying the burdens of this institution.
(22LtMs, Lt 396, 1907, 1)
If you seek the Lord diligently in prayer, you will receive grace. You need not suppose that Satan is asleep; for he is wide-awake. Your religious experience will be a great help to you in your every-day work. Fail not to find strength in prayer for your physical and spiritual necessities. You need the wisdom that God alone can give. Silence before God, in self-examination, will bring great blessing and will give you a preparation to speak words in season and out of season to afflicted souls in need of light. Let the light of truth shine into the chambers of the mind. Reveal by your daily lives that you are in communion with God, and that His peace fills the heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 396, 1907, 2)
Rest in God. Thus, Brother and Sister Cummings, you become fitted to minister to the needs of others as you should. Practical communion with God brings peace and rest to the soul and will add persuasiveness to your words. His peace in your hearts will shine forth from the countenance. His grace will give you a persuasive power of influence. Communion with God will impart a moral elevation.
(22LtMs, Lt 396, 1907, 3)
You are Christ’s disciples; and when the religion of Christ Jesus is lived, unbelievers will take knowledge of you that you are true, sincere followers of Christ. Obtain peace, His peace, in your service, as you minister to the sick. Study His Word. In these perilous times, if men will walk with God, He will hide them in a cleft of the rock in every time of need. Thus hidden, they can discern God, even as Moses saw Him. This is to be a part of your education. With the power and light that God imparts, you can go forward from strength to increased strength. More tact, more capability and wisdom will constantly be needed, as you continue to deal with the minds and souls that are sick. You may impart the light of truth, if your hearts are meek and lowly, and if you are imbued with the sanctifying grace that Christ died to impart.
(22LtMs, Lt 396, 1907, 4)
Truth, received and lived, will save the souls of those for whom you minister. You are not only to work in medical lines, but you are to seek to introduce the knowledge of the saving grace of Christ for the soul. There is a work given to every one who is truly converted. May you ever have the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. When we seek the Lord with all the heart, we shall have words to speak that will be as a message from heaven to the heart of those to whom we speak. To all who are athirst, Christ presents the water of life, that we may drink freely when we are thus athirst. Christ will be in us a well of water, springing up unto eternal life. Then our words will be full of truth and grace; and as we minister, we shall be prepared to bring blessing to others. Have faith in God.
(22LtMs, Lt 396, 1907, 5)
Lt 398, 1907
Wessels, Andrew “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California December 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Andrew Wessels:
I am at the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, near San Diego. We have been here nearly two weeks. We leave tomorrow morning. While here, we have had the privilege of talking with your mother and your brother John. They are of good courage.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 1)
Some time ago, I received a letter from you; but we have been very much cramped for means, for several reasons, and I have hardly known what to write in reply. I wish I could see you and talk with you. I have just read your letter over again and shall now reply without further delay.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 2)
I am directing this communication in care of Brother Geo. W. Amadon, who came to us many years ago, when he was a young man, to learn the printer’s trade. He is regarded by me very highly. I am directing him to place this letter in your hands. He will be able to understand your case and will keep his own counsel.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 3)
I can write only a few words this evening. I hope to write again in a short time. We are now packing to leave for Los Angeles early tomorrow morning. I expect to speak there next Sabbath.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 4)
I think your best course would be to go to Washington. We have a great desire to help you in some way, although at present we do not have the means with which to do so. But keep your soul in the love of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 5)
My granddaughter Mabel Workman with her husband Wilfred are in Washington at the Foreign Mission Seminary. If you go to Washington, I believe you will find in these young people ones to whom you can go for good counsel. They are kind and courteous and as true as steel to principle.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 6)
“Christ ‘loved the church, and gave Himself for it; that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.’ [Ephesians 5:25-27.] Those whom God loves enjoy this favor because they are lovely in character.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 7)
“The great, grand work of bringing out a people who will have Christlike characters, and who will be able to stand in the day of the Lord, is to be accomplished. As long as we sail with the current of the world, we need neither canvas nor car. It is when we turn squarely about to stem the current that our labors begin. Satan will bring in every kind of theory to pervert the truth. The work will go hard; for since the fall of Adam it has been the fashion of the world to sin. But Christ is on the field of action. The Holy Spirit is at work. Divine agencies are combining with the human in reshaping the character according to the perfect pattern; and man is to work out that which God works in.”
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 8)
My dear young brother, will you do your part to fulfil the contract? Will you carefully heed all the light God has given you in various ways? Will you henceforth constantly keep before you the one object of fitting yourself, by God’s grace, to be a subject of the heavenly kingdom? If by faith you take up the light God has given you in messages of reproof and encouragement, and advance step by step in the right way, keeping your eye steadfastly fixed upon your great Leader, light will shine along your pathway, the approval of God will stimulate you with hope, and ministering angels will co-operate with all your efforts.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 9)
I should be pleased to hear from you again.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 10)
In earnest faith in your behalf.
(22LtMs, Lt 398, 1907, 11)
Lt 400, 1907
Amadon, G. W. “Paradise Valley Sanitarium,” National City, California November 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Amadon:
I am enclosing herewith a letter that I wish you to give to Brother Andrew Wessels. You will know how to do this without subjecting him to criticism. I wish you would solicit an interview with him. I have sent him many messages from the Lord, but he has thought that the institution managed by Dr. Kellogg was the only place where he could go to obtain a medical education. In this he has made a mistake. I fear that the plan is to get him to feel that he is indebted to the sanitarium, and then hold him there because of this. If you can encourage him to leave Battle Creek and go to Washington to pursue his medical studies there, please do so, and help him to go as soon as possible. I think the sooner you can attend to this case, the better. We do not want Andrew to be under the influences at Battle Creek.
(22LtMs, Lt 400, 1907, 1)
Please learn how matters stand, and write to me. Over a month ago, Andrew wrote me a letter. He expressed his desire to go to Washington and said that he had no money. Please work wisely to help him, and I will do all I can also to help him. I charged him not to go to Battle Creek, but he would go. Now please do your best to get him to go to Washington, where he can live at Takoma Park under the influence of the school and the sanitarium there. Arrange matters in the wisest possible way, so as to save this young man.
(22LtMs, Lt 400, 1907, 2)
Mother Wessels and Brother J. J. Wessels are in Paradise Valley, but they do not have any available means. The mother has only enough to live on. Since she left Africa, she has improved in health; but she often becomes very uneasy over Andrew. Something must be done.
(22LtMs, Lt 400, 1907, 3)
I think you will understand the situation. I am writing by lamplight. I will write no more now. We leave here tomorrow for Los Angeles. We hope to visit Long Beach, Glendale, and then, in a few days, we may go on to Loma Linda. Many important interests are centered in Southern California, and we are endeavoring to work in an intelligent manner. During the past two Sabbaths I have spoken to large congregations in our church at San Diego.
(22LtMs, Lt 400, 1907, 4)
Please do all you can to help Brother Andrew Wessels.
(22LtMs, Lt 400, 1907, 5)
Lt 402, 1907
Mason, Paul C. “Loma Linda Sanitarium,” Loma Linda, California December 17, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Mason:
I am writing to you this morning regarding household matters. You and your wife consented to come into our family at a time when we were in great need of some help. We appreciated greatly your willingness to help us in an emergency, and we are very thankful that you were able to do this. But we have known, all the time, that your wife has not felt really able to carry the household duties, and that she has remained only because she saw our great necessity.
(22LtMs, Lt 402, 1907, 1)
I have felt very anxious about Sister Mason, fearing that she might overtax her strength in her desire to please me; so, ever since we left home, I have been looking for some one whom we could get to act as housekeeper, and thus be able to relieve Sister Mason.
(22LtMs, Lt 402, 1907, 2)
Since coming to Loma Linda this last time, I have found a woman who desires to connect with me and take up this line of work; therefore I am writing to tell you that I will relieve Sister Mason of carrying the burden any longer. I know that you will feel relieved to have this burden drop from your wife; and so we are very glad that we are able to find help to take her place, and thus enable Sister Mason to place herself in the most favorable circumstances possible for regaining her health.
(22LtMs, Lt 402, 1907, 3)
When I return home, which will be in about ten days, I expect to bring this sister with me.
(22LtMs, Lt 402, 1907, 4)
In much love.
(22LtMs, Lt 402, 1907, 5)
Lt 404, 1907
White, W. C. NP December 30, 1907 [typed] Portions of this letter are published in Ev 105-106. + Elder W. C. White
Southern Publishing Association
Nashville Dear Son Willie:
I can write you only a few lines this morning; for my left eye is troubling me, and I am not strong. When you came into my room to speak a few words with me before leaving, I hardly dared open my lips for fear of a collapse; and I have by no means recovered my strength, although Sara has spared no pains in giving me treatment.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 1)
I have borne much sorrow and heartache as I have seen men occupying positions of trust who seem to have no ability to reason from cause to effect. Representations are made to me in the night season, and I cannot rest. During this visit to Southern California special light has been given, showing that matters there cannot be remedied while some existing conditions continue. Some who hold responsible positions are not under the guidance of the Holy Spirit of God; the stamp of the human is seen, and the pattern, which should be after the divine similitude, is spoiled. When messages come to such, that are not according to their ideas, they say, Sister White is influenced by W. C. White. This is false, as you yourself know.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 2)
During the two months that we have been in Southern California, I have not had one full night’s sleep. Some nights I have slept three hours and some nights not at all. The burden is upon me night and day.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 3)
What can be done to make these men with such strong traits of character realize that they need to be reconverted? Unless this experience comes to them, they will never become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They are wrapping themselves up in a garment of self-confidence. The messages that the Lord sends them, that they may understand how much they need to be taught of Him, they cast aside as idle tales, thus placing themselves where they will accept their own suppositions as divine revelation. With their deficient experience, they are unfitted to understand the dealings of the Lord with His people; yet they suppose themselves qualified to govern a conference without the aid of the suggestions and counsel of their brethren or of the Lord. The result of this kind of experience is now being seen in Southern California. The rebuke of God is upon the one who has taken such a course.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 4)
Brother Prescott needs to experience daily the converting power of God upon his own heart and mind and soul before he can hope to advise and labor unselfishly. The kind of planning that would make one man a center and pattern, neither he nor any other man can carry out. This is not the way in which the Lord works. He works through different individual minds to accomplish His purposes, and in the simplest ways, that they may reflect the great outshining of His love. When one man thinks that his mind is to outline the large moves in the work of God, that his abilities are to accomplish the greatest work, he limits the power of God to fulfil His purposes in the earth.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 5)
God needs men and women who will work in the simplicity of Christ to bring the knowledge of truth before those who need its converting power. But when a precise line is laid down which the workers must follow in their efforts to proclaim the message, a limit is set to the usefulness of a great number of workers. I am charged to speak, saying, God seeth not as man seeth. Those who occupy responsible positions need far less of the exercise of human wisdom and more of the sanctification of the Spirit revealed in the lowliness and gentleness of Christ. They need the Holy Spirit to come into their hearts and minds, to control their wills and to sanctify their tongues. When soul and mind and body are converted to God, our physical strength and our desires will become working agencies for God. When the converting power of God transforms the life, we shall be educated by God Himself to speak His words and to work His works.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 6)
The law of God is to be magnified. Its claims must be presented by our workers in our books, and papers, and through the spoken word. The knowledge of its holy character is to become widespread. The message of Christ’s righteousness must be proclaimed from one end of the earth to the other. Our people are to be aroused to prepare the way of the Lord. The third angel’s message—the last message of mercy to a perishing world—is so sacred, so glorious. Let the light go forth as a lamp that burneth. Mysteries into which angels have desired to look, which prophets and kings and righteous men desired to know, the church of God is now to unfold.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 7)
Well, I will say no more on this point, but will tell you about our experiences. The Sabbath after you left, I felt that I had a message to bear to the people at Loma Linda. I was taken to the assembly hall in a wheel chair, and then God gave me strength to stand upon my feet and bear the testimony He had given me for the people. I spoke for one hour. Clarence will send you a copy of my talk. I wanted to speak again on Sunday, but did not venture, thinking it might be presumption to do so.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 8)
We left Loma Linda on Monday morning at seven o’clock. In Los Angeles the rush of business and the noise of the cars was distracting, as you can imagine; but I held on to myself as best I could. I had an opportunity to rest in a room that Elder Haskell and wife occupied. I was very thankful for this.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 9)
On the Owl we had a private compartment, occupied by Sara, Sister Hannaford, and myself. The bed on the car was not of the easiest, but I rested well. I had the assurance that I was cared for by my Father, and a peace such as only Christ can give came to me. As long as I remained awake, I enjoyed this sense of perfect peace; and when I fell asleep, my rest was sweeter than any I had experienced since I left my home in St. Helena. I felt that I was shut in with God and felt safe in His keeping.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 10)
This is Friday. Last night Brother and Sister Metcalfe Hare arrived in St. Helena. They came to our home. Brother Mason’s wife is still at the sanitarium under treatment. Brother Mason will occupy his room until Elder Haskell and his wife arrive to attend the Union Conference; then they will have it.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 11)
On his voyage across the water, Brother Hare contracted some difficulty with his face. It looked as though it had been badly burned by the sun and was considerably swollen. He has gone to the sanitarium for treatment and will remain there for a few days. Sister Hare is with us; and when Brother Hare is recovered, he will return to us.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 12)
We feel sure that Sister Hannaford, whom we brought with us from Loma Linda, will be able to do our work satisfactorily. We expect Henry Kellogg here today for a short call.
(22LtMs, Lt 404, 1907, 13)
Lt 406, 1907
Belden, Vina St. Helena, California December 29, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister Vina Belden:
We received your letter last Friday. You say that you have received no word from me or my workers concerning me. The reason is that we have been away for two months in Southern California, where we visited Los Angeles, Loma Linda, Paradise Valley, Long Beach, Glendale, and other places. It was a long and wearisome journey, and I was worn with continual anxiety.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 1)
During the two months I did not write one letter to my home place, for it was necessary to be continually at work with important matters. There were many things to set in order and many warnings to be given. It was a painful experience to me to have to give to the people some of the messages that were delivered to me for them. When standing before the large and small companies with whom I met in several places, I usually spoke for one hour. I warned them of the nearness of the coming of the Lord in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 2)
I was greatly burdened to speak to our people, saying, All who would follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth, must have a personal, well-grounded hope, obtained through earnest searching of the Word, and explaining that Word to those who are inclined to become confused. Thus saith the Lord to His church: “Be ye holy; for I am holy.” [1 Peter 1:16.] There was never greater need than there is now for members of the church to follow Christ’s example, to be daily learners of Him, living earnest and useful lives.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 3)
When we are in perplexity and trouble, we would do well to make an earnest study of the life of Christ. He was a man of sorrows, yet He had peculiar joys—joys that did not spring from earth, but were born of His connection with divinity. He is the Saviour of those who are perishing for lack of His life. He desires to make them partakers of the divine nature, and thus escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust. Amid perplexities and inconveniences the believing soul may have the privileges of sonship with God. Looking unto Jesus, he learns of Him how to conduct himself under every circumstance; for he has the experience of Christ to guide him, and the consolation of Christ to sustain him. Christ is the consolation of His people. “In the world ye shall have tribulation,” He says, “but in Me ye shall have peace. My peace I leave with you; My peace give I unto you; not as the world giveth give I unto you.”“These things have I spoken unto you that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 16:33; 14:27; 15:11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 4)
You ask in regard to Stephen Belden’s children. Frank, I am told, has recently had some business dealings with the printing house in Washington, D.C. I have not received any word from him for a long time.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 5)
I am pleased to tell you that while we were in Southern California, W. C. White heard that the Gilbert family were in Pasadena. He called on them, and told them of the meeting to be held in Los Angeles, and that I was to speak to the people, and invited them to come. Lily Gilbert and her daughter came and made themselves known to me. We invited them to come to the meeting again on Sunday, and to take dinner with us at Glendale, which they did.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 6)
The eldest daughter is married and lives in Connecticut. Mrs. Gilbert’s health was failing, and her husband decided to move to the place where they now live. Mr. Gilbert is a carpenter. They have a child about three years old. The eldest daughter is visiting her mother. She is a nice-appearing young woman.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 7)
I was very pleased to meet these friends. They listened with interest to my discourse. It may be that these children will yet be saved. Their address now is Lamanda Park, Cal., near Pasadena.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 8)
I have been interrupted many times since I began to write this letter, and now it is dark, and I am weary; but I am glad to be able to write you this much. I have now passed my eightieth birthday. I am thankful that I am still able to speak to the people. But this last journey brought many burdens and perplexities; for our people do not realize their privileges and opportunities.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 9)
I would send you money if I had it. When my new books are in the market, I trust I shall have more means.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 10)
The Lord is good and greatly to be praised. We have had beautiful weather in the South, and also here in St. Helena during my absence, I am told. But now the days are growing colder. Today is the coldest we have had.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 11)
We have succeeded in securing excellent help for the house. Mrs. Mason, who has been matron for the past few months, is not strong enough to continue this work. Sister Hannaford, our new help, is a good cook, and one of the best of helpers. I pay her twenty dollars a month and her board.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 12)
With love.
(22LtMs, Lt 406, 1907, 13)
Lt 408, 1907
Olsen, O. A. St. Helena, California December 30, 1907 Previously unpublished.
Dear Brother Olsen:
We are thankful for your good letters, and also for Elder Starr’s. I have only this evening and tomorrow morning in which to get off my Australian letters, and therefore cannot write much. I am not yet rested from the taxing labors connected with my visit to Southern California.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 1)
I am sending you in this a copy of a talk I gave at Loma Linda on Sabbath, December 14. I praise the Lord for the strength He gave me at that time to bear my testimony before the people. The Sabbath before this I had spoken in Los Angeles to a large congregation. The meetinghouse was poorly ventilated, and crowded with people, and the air was poisoned with the many breaths. I suffered greatly in consequence. This is the third time I have passed through a like experience after speaking in this place.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 2)
When W. C. White left me on the following Friday, to attend meetings in Mexico and Nashville, I feared that I was on the eve of a breakdown. Yet I felt that before leaving Loma Linda I must present to the students the light that had been given me regarding our duty as a people to preach the Word of the living God. In the night season I seemed to hear the voice of God, saying, Enter into no controversy with those who are determined to enact Sunday laws, but read to them the Word of the Lord:
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 3)
“Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it; because that in it He had rested from all His work which God created and made.” [Genesis 2:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 4)
“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you; every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done, but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed. And He gave unto Moses, when He had made an end of communing with him upon Mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Exodus 31:12-18.]
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 5)
“And Moses went up unto God, and the Lord called unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and all the children of Israel: Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto Myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey My voice indeed, and keep My covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto Me above all people, for all the earth is Mine: and ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words that thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 6)
“And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the Lord commanded him. And all the people answered together, All that the Lord hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord. And the Lord said unto Moses, Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee forever.” [Exodus 19:3-9.] This covenant between God and the people was to be a perpetual one, to be held sacred to a thousand generations.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 7)
I am instructed to say, Gather together the proofs in the Scriptures that God has set this day apart, and let the words of the Lord be read before the congregations. There is to be no controversy on this subject. The Word of the Lord is given for the observance of the seventh day; let this Word be given to the congregation, and not the words of men. Thus you will throw the burden of responsibility on those who reject it. While you exalt a plain “Thus saith the Lord,” their controversy is not with you, but with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 8)
The twenty-first and twenty-second chapters of Revelation should be presented more frequently before the people. The words of the Lord through His exiled servant are written especially for the people living amid the perils of these last days. This book is declared to be, “The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, to show unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass; and He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John: who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things which he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the word of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” [Revelation 1:1-3.]
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 9)
The whole of this first chapter is a wonderful revelation. Through its study we are to learn of our dangers and how to avoid them. Keep these truths constantly before the people. In your discourses be careful to make prominent the truths which all who live in these last days should know. Repeat the warnings that Christ has given through the disciple John. Advise them to study earnestly the word of Jude:
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 10)
“Jude the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ and called: mercy unto you, and peace and love, be multiplied.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 11)
“Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the coming salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered to the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained unto this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 12)
“I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, He hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto judgment of the great day. Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.” [Jude 1-7.]
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 13)
We have seen these very evils practiced in our cities in the year 1907, and the Lord has permitted His judgments to fall upon them. Other cities will be destroyed in like manner, until God shall fully reveal that He knows the secret things of men. The city of San Francisco is a revelation to us of what many of our cities are and of what their reward will be. The book of Revelation is not understood because men do not care to read and understand what is coming upon the world in these last days.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 14)
The apostle Jude continues: “Beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. How that they told you that there would be mockers in the last times, who would walk after their own ungodly lusts.” [Verses 17, 18.] We certainly have among us mockers from whom the Spirit of the Lord has departed. “These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 15)
“And of some have compassion making a difference; and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted with the flesh. Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.” [Verses 19-25.]
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 16)
Those who profess to believe in the soon coming of Christ to judge the earth should be thoroughly aroused to the situation. They should examine their own hearts and lives, to see if they stand in the position to which Jude the servant of Christ calls them. Let our physicians and ministers be assured that they are themselves keeping the commandments of God; for this they must do if they would be saved in His kingdom.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 17)
If we lose heaven we lose everything. Then let us, in this time of proving, weed out from our characters everything that would exclude us from the city of God. We need to arouse and make thorough work for eternity. Read the first and second chapters of First Peter. Our hearts and minds are to be purified by obedience to the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 18)
I urge my brethren and sisters to read their Bibles as they have never read them before. The evidences that we are in the last days are being given us right in our own ranks. Some who have become self-sufficient, and who have rejected the counsel of the Lord, are being left to follow their own human judgment. These are working against the plain commands of God. Let those who have been influenced by the words and works of such discern the signs of the times and see in these men the very ones of whom the apostles have warned us. And as we see these predictions being fulfilled before our eyes, may we be led to a more earnest study of the Word of God and a determination to believe and teach the Word of the living God.
(22LtMs, Lt 408, 1907, 19)
Lt 410, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California August 26, 1907 This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 371-375. + Elder J. E. White My dear Son:
During the past night I have been unable to sleep. My mind has been deeply exercised, and I am now writing, though it is several hours before daylight.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 1)
Yesterday afternoon Dr. Ruble visited me, and we had a long interview. Dr. Ruble is secretary of the medical department of the General Conference and is connected with the sanitarium at Takoma Park. I spoke to him regarding the wages that should be paid to our ministers and physicians. There should be a more equable adjustment in these matters.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 2)
Dr. Ruble asked me concerning the relation that we should sustain toward private medical work and private sanitariums. I could not say that there should be a binding about of men who are working privately in unselfish lines, although I know that in some cases the question involves great perplexity. Much depends on how these private sanitariums are conducted.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 3)
The Lord is not glorified by the work of the sanitarium that has been established in Boulder in rivalry to the original institution. The devising of this sanitarium and its working have been contrary to the will and way of the Lord. It was one of the strange results of unsanctified judgment.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 4)
All who profess to be the children of God need now to realize that we are living in perilous times: The end of all things is near at hand. The signs are rapidly fulfilling, yet it would seem that but few realize that the day of the Lord is coming swiftly, silently, as a thief in the night. Many are saying, Peace and safety. Unless they are watching and waiting for their Lord, they will be taken as in a snare.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 5)
We see and feel keenly the unbelief of some who have blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, refusing to acknowledge the light, because it has not coincided with their own ideas. My heart is pained as I see that many, and some even amongst our own people, are fulfilling the words written by Paul:
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 6)
“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] The time of this apostasy is here. Every conceivable effort will be made to throw doubt upon the positions that we have occupied for over half a century.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 7)
The work that the Lord has laid upon me is held up to ridicule and scorn. But even in this I am in good company, for so did the Pharisees regard the Saviour and His works. Some declare their unbelief in the work that the Lord has given me to do, because, as they say, “Mrs. E. G. White works no miracles.” But those who look for miracles as a sign of divine guidance are in grave danger of deception. It is stated in the Word that the enemy will work through his agents who have departed from the faith, and they will seemingly work miracles, even to the bringing down of fire out of heaven in the sight of men. By means of “lying wonders” Satan would deceive, if possible, the very elect. [2 Thessalonians 2:9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 8)
Multitudes have heard me speak, and have read my writings, but no one has ever heard me claim to work miracles. I have at times been called upon to pray for the sick, and the Word of the Lord has been verified:
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 9)
“Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up: and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” [James 5:14, 15.] Christ is the great miracle-worker. To Him be all the glory. He it is of whom John writes:
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 10)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.... He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not.” [John 1:1-5, 10.]
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 11)
If those who were exalted to heaven in point of privilege, and who should have been especially wise in spiritual discernment, failed to recognize in Christ the promised Messiah, shall we think it strange if His followers are not recognized by the world?
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 12)
“But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name. Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” [Verses 12-14.]
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 13)
We need the true discernment. He alone who receives the Son of God as his Saviour stands on vantage ground. Many are in confusion because of their failure to receive the truth. Every soul in these days of terrible wickedness needs especially to search the Scriptures. The less they associate with the elements of unbelief, the safer will it be for those who desire a genuine experience in the faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 14)
As I realize the accountability of those who know the truth, I can not sleep. I pray earnestly for the light of Jesus’ countenance, that I may not become confused. I shall continue to use pen and voice in accordance with the Word of God. As representations are given to me, I shall endeavor faithfully to write them out.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 15)
It is a terrible thing to be self-deceived; for many will because of self-confidence and self-sufficiency be eternally lost. Now, just now, is the time to wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. We cannot afford to lose heaven. Awful will be the revelation to those who find that the books of heaven testify that they have permitted themselves to become Satan’s helpers in deceiving other souls and causing them also to lose eternal life. Inexpressibly sad is the picture of those whom others will charge with the loss of their souls. Eternal life was within their reach, but their deluded, proud hearts were not broken, and they refused to confess their sins.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 16)
There are some in the Colorado Conference who need reconversion. I have seen their dangers. In the night seasons, I have been unable to sleep as I have contemplated the awful result of some who are pursuing a course under the intriguing of Satan. I have sent earnest warnings to some; but will they take heed, or will my burden of soul for them be in vain?
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 17)
“Then began He to upbraid the cities wherein most of His mighty works were done, because they repented not: Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained unto this day. But I say unto thee, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee.
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 18)
“At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father; for so it seemed good in Thy sight. All things are delivered unto Me of My Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him.” [Matthew 11:20-27.]
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 19)
This is Bible truth. And of those who have clung to their own hereditary and cultivated tendencies, I can only say, They must have the converting power of God before they can be a blessing to others. Unless they are converted daily, they will have a continual warfare with self. They may plead for their own way, but their way is not always the right way. They must fall upon the Rock and be broken. There is hope for them if they will heed the gracious invitation:
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 20)
“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Verses 28-30.]
(22LtMs, Lt 410, 1907, 21)
Lt 412, 1907
Brethren and Sisters of the California Conference St. Helena, California January 27, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in 1MCP 274. To my Brethren and Sisters of the California Conference:
I am bidden to speak to the Seventh-day Adventist churches, saying that the Lord will do large things for His people when they seek Him with true earnestness. But so deep is the impression of self-exaltation in the human heart, so great the desire for human power, that with many, mind and heart and soul become absorbed with the idea of ruling and commanding. Nothing can destroy this ruinous influence upon the human mind, but seeking the Lord for heavenly eyesight. Only the power of divine grace can make man understand his true position and accomplish for him the work essential to be wrought in the heart.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 1)
Sin originated in heaven through the desire of Lucifer to become the ruling power. Satan is constantly seeking to have his evil action in seeking for the supremacy copied by the human family. And he succeeds when men in responsible positions act as if they thought their work was to dominate their fellow workers.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 2)
Christ, the Prince of heaven, laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and humbled Himself to become the member of an earthly family of lowly circumstances, so that He might be a living example of meekness and humility, and thus open the way for the most lowly members of the human family to approach Him as their friend. A position of influence in the church does not give to the man who holds it the power to rule his brethren, or justify him in acting as if his work were of the greatest importance, and his word must be obeyed. Man must not take the place of God in the church, and its members are not to be brought under servile control of human beings. Whenever ministers, teachers, physicians, or men in other responsible positions grasp so much authority in connection with their office that church members are required to consult them in all minor matters relating to their movements, it will be a sad day for the church.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 3)
If the men in positions of responsibility in the different churches will reveal a devoted, earnest interest to watch for souls as they that must give an account, and to help one another by precept and example, the church members will be greatly helped. But it will certainly be a new experience in the history of our church, if those who have any work to carry forward in behalf of the church feel no liberty to act unless the men in responsible positions pass upon and assent to all their plans. Such a course on the part of God’s people would show a sure departing from the Lord to make man the counselor.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 4)
The great tendency of the human heart is to depart from God and to make flesh its arm. Those who are daily seeking to perfect a Christian character will look to Christ for their example and their counsel. When, after His resurrection, Christ outlined to His disciples their work as His representatives, He said, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 5)
The church today may claim this promise. I, your Saviour, am with you, and all power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Here is our promise of authority. Christ, our Mediator, God in man, is the source of our wisdom. The human agent is not left to work in his own wisdom, but in Christ is linked with divine strength.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 6)
Let our church members now begin the work of humbling their hearts before God. Let no one exhibit an unchristlike independence. Let no one feel that he can be mind and conscience and experience for his fellow man. All are amenable to God. He speaks to every individual, saying, “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] I am with you always, to guide you, to comfort you, to strengthen you, to sustain you in your work, to make you successful in the presentation of the Word. I will impress the mind, I will convince of sin. If you will give your hearts to Me, I will let My light shine into the chambers of the mind, and My spirit shall abide in the soul temple.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 7)
My brethren in the ministry, work to give the light to those who are not church members. Church members, ask God to give you a burden to open the Scripture to others and to do missionary work for those who need help. Some will be reached in one way and some in another, but the work will always be done, not always as man may expect, but as the Lord shall lead.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 8)
To every man God has given his work. Not all have the same line of work to do. Some the Lord uses in one way and some in another, but all are to be under the divine influence. Every thing that has to do with the cause of God is to bear the stamp of strict justice, mercy, and the love of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 412, 1907, 9)
Lt 412a, 1907
White, J. E. St. Helena, California January 27, 1907 Previously unpublished. My Dear Son:
I have had a heavy burden upon my mind. My soul has been weighed down with the thought of the “do-nothing” position of our churches. Our ministers need to be thoroughly converted, heart and soul and strength. When the Holy Spirit takes possession of their minds and hearts, there will be decided revivals in the churches. As a people, bearing an important message, we have been doing little to meet the requirements of God to trade upon our talents and to work with intense interest for those who know not the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 412a, 1907, 1)
I could not write out all I wished, but I send you today what I have written. My prayer is that the Lord may help me to do earnest work to arouse our ministers to study the Word, to preach the Word, to rid themselves of their high opinion of self, and to seek the Lord earnestly, as the disciples did after the ascension of Christ. When the disciples sought the Lord earnestly, they could present the Word more forcibly than before.
(22LtMs, Lt 412a, 1907, 2)
I am unable to sleep. During the hours that I should have been sleeping, I have written the manuscript that I am sending you. I leave it in your hands, and I ask you to bring it before the people at this meeting.
(22LtMs, Lt 412a, 1907, 3)
Let the Lord Jesus preside in your meetings. Let the way be prepared for the descent of the Holy Spirit. We are doing our work for eternity. God forbid that Christ should come and find our churches where they now are. We must ask and believe and receive. May the Lord bless you all.
(22LtMs, Lt 412a, 1907, 4)
Lt 414, 1907
Haskell, Brother and Sister St. Helena, California August 27, 1907 Previously unpublished. Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I am not surprised that you do not know how to understand my attitude in regard to Brother and Sister Nicola. I realize that in the past Dr. Nicola has not been able to see matters clearly. He has been so closely associated with Dr. Kellogg, that he was somewhat under Dr. Kellogg’s influence.
(22LtMs, Lt 414, 1907, 1)
Some time ago I wrote to Brother Burden to give them an urgent invitation to come to Loma Linda, hoping that by this means they might be brought under a good influence, that would save them from becoming further confused. Brother Burden felt somewhat fearful about doing this, but I again wrote to Brother Burden, urging that he send them an invitation to come to Southern California, and this he did.
(22LtMs, Lt 414, 1907, 2)
But in the meanwhile, Dr. Nicola and his wife had connected with the sanitarium at Hinsdale and had agreed to stay at least for one year, so the matter is dropped. I have the satisfaction of knowing that I have done what I could, and that the way was opened before them.
(22LtMs, Lt 414, 1907, 3)
I feel confident that the Lord’s hand was in the matter of bringing the Melrose Sanitarium where it could be controlled by the conference. I hope to see the sanitarium now being managed in a way that will glorify the Lord. We need true-hearted men and women to carry forward the work of this institution. It is in a beautiful location and should be an honor to the cause of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 414, 1907, 4)
Do you know the present indebtedness of the Melrose Sanitarium? I hope that our people will rally to the sale of Ministry of Healing to clear away this debt.
(22LtMs, Lt 414, 1907, 5)
I trust that the workers in the sanitarium may be true health reformers and that they may be cleansed from all backsliding practices. I would like to be with those who are engaged in holding the fort.
(22LtMs, Lt 414, 1907, 6)
Lt 416, 1907
Daniells, A. G.; White, W. C. St. Helena, California December 30, 1907 Portions of this letter are published in ChL 34-35; 3SM 427; 3MR 220. + Elders A. G. Daniells and W. C. White My dear fellow workers:
Make the Lord your adviser. Do not let any man press you into doing anything that would in any way hinder the advancement of the cause of present truth. I pray that, as God’s blood-bought heritage, you may be led and taught of Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 1)
There are many who suppose it to be their privilege to control to some degree the actions of their fellow workers. They think that other workers, whom the Lord is using, should first obtain their consent before doing a certain work, and that they should work according to their direction. All such yokes are to be broken. The work is to go forward under the Lord’s direction. His servants are to work at His dictation.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 2)
God has not committed to any the task of lording it over His heritage. When the yokes that are now being placed on the necks of some of God’s people are broken, the work will go forward in a way that will surprise us. But, on the other hand, unless ministers and physicians and those in responsible offices give the Lord the right of way, to use His followers as He sees fit, He will reprove by judgments. For the past three years a strange work has been going forward under the ruling of men; and because of this the cause of truth has been belittled and retarded. Not one-hundredth part has been done that the Lord designed should be done. Those who have ventured to obstruct the way of the Lord by interposing their human judgment need to be converted. They need to be cleansed and refined and purified, or they will never see the kingdom of God. The work of the Lord must go forward without the prohibitions of men.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 3)
It is the spirit of self-importance that leads men to lay down rules which limit the work of their fellows. I am bidden to say, Break every yoke. Shall we refuse to yield obedience to the Source of all power and wait for human permissions before we do the work that God bids us to do?
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 4)
We are laborers together with God. Let men in office walk in all humility of mind. The Lord works with profound wisdom for His children. He never makes a mistake. Let not finite and erring man suppose that he is to be mind and conscience for those who are learning of the One who is perfect in understanding. God has a wise and holy plan for all who walk in humility and faith and trust in Him. His complete and perfect character is to be expressed in the lifework of His blood-bought heritage. They are to answer all the Lord’s great purpose for the fallen race.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 5)
Because of sin, the earth and its inhabitants are defiled and degraded. Unto Adam God said, “Because thou hast harkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life.” [Genesis 3:17.] Again it is written, “The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth.” [Isaiah 24:5, 6.] And again, “The earth is utterly broken down, the earth is clean dissolved, the earth is moved exceedingly. The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and shall be removed like a cottage: and the transgression thereof shall be heavy upon it: and it shall fall and not rise again.” [Verses 19, 20.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 6)
It is because man cannot be a perfect criterion, that he should not climb up to make himself supreme. He cannot safely ask his fellow men to make him their pattern in words and actions. “Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of Thy hands,” was written of our first parents. [Psalm 8:6.] Man was made to have dominion in the earth; but he lost that dominion through sin. That which was lost by the first Adam will be restored by the second, as Paul testifies: “What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that Thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; and crownedst him with glory and honor, and didst set him over the works of Thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that He put all in subjection under him, He left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” [Hebrews 2:6-9.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 7)
That of which Paul testifies, the Lord Jesus confirms: “Behold, I make all things new.”“He that overcometh shall inherit all things.”“They shall reign forever and ever.” [Revelation 21:5, 7; 22:5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 8)
“As truly as I live, saith the Lord, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the Lord.” [Numbers 14:21.] The apostle Paul counted it his highest privilege that he could have a part in bringing about that blessed state. He writes: “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ; to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be made known in the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose which He purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Ephesians 3:8-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 9)
There is a great work to be done in the earth before the eternal purpose of God is fully worked out. Instead of blocking the way of any of our workers, we must give them the right of way that God has designed they should have, and let Him work through human minds. Every possible effort must now be made to reveal the truth as it is in Jesus. We are to present Christ as a sin-pardoning Saviour. While the angels are holding the four winds, we are to make the most of time, using every capability and power in the service of God. We have no time to lose. Soon the way to souls will be hedged up by obstacles that we do not now think of. Let none of us exercise forbiddings, but let us outline the work wisely and do our best. The Lord will bless those who work in humble dependence upon Him.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 10)
Through the message given by His servants, Christ is to be revealed to men as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, the first and the last. The call is to be sounded in our churches: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice, lift it up with strength; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God.” Let the Lord be your strength and counselor. “Behold, the Lord will come with strong hand, and His arm shall rule for Him; He shall feed His flock like a shepherd; He shall gather the lambs with His arms, and carry them in His bosom.” [Isaiah 40:9-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 11)
Voices are to be heard in every city proclaiming the last message of mercy to the world. Now, as never before, we are to call men and women to “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Now we are to give the earnest invitation, “If any man thirst (for the water of life), let him come unto Me, and drink.” [John 7:37.] “The Spirit and the Bride say, Come; and let him that heareth say, Come; and let him that is athirst come and drink of the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 12)
Again and again I repeat the warning: Never place as president of a conference that man who supposes that such a position gives him the power to dictate and control the consciences of others. It is natural for man to have a large estimate of self; old habits wrestle for the supremacy; but the man who occupies a position of trust should not glorify himself. The worker who daily subordinates his will to the will of Christ will be educated away from such an idea. He will practice the virtues of Christ’s character in all meekness and lowliness of mind; and this will give to those whom his ministration is supposed to benefit the precious freedom of the liberty of the children of God. They will be free to act out the grace bestowed upon them, that all may understand the precious privileges which the saints possess as members of the body of Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 13)
The one who is in trust of sacred responsibilities should ever show forth the meekness and wisdom of Christ; for it is thus that he becomes a representative of Christ’s character and methods. Never should he usurp authority, or commend or threaten, saying, “Unless you do as I say, you will receive no pay from the conference.” A man who would speak such words is out of his place as president of a conference. He would make men slaves to his judgment.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 14)
The apostle Paul writes: “Even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.” [2 Corinthians 3:10.] God desires that every soul shall walk humbly and meekly before Him, depending upon that glory which is imparted to him as he is made partaker of the divine nature. Our trust must be in the exercise of that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. When a man who is placed in a position of responsibility begins to exercise lordly authority in the church, the sooner he is relieved of his responsibility, the better will it be for his own soul and for the church. Safety for the church depends upon its being freed from the influence of his judgment and his plans. Far better would it have been for that church if such an influence had never entered it. Far better will it be for the man to be relieved of an office that leads him to assume such authority.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 15)
There are many among our workers who need to have a new conversion before they can be qualified to decide important questions in the church. Old hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil need to be conquered. Habits which were formed when they were in the bonds of selfishness need to be given up. The love of supremacy and desire for the mastery need to be seen in their true light and banished from the life.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 16)
Christ wants a clean, unselfish character wrought out by each one of His professed servants, by studying Christ’s life and learning of Him. He would have men of responsibility closely examine themselves. Are they free from all selfishness? If not, they need to be converted from their high opinion of themselves. Let our workers bear in mind that they are given responsibilities that they may be a help to others. They are only a part of a great whole, and their own course of action determines the value of each of a large number whom God has set in the church for this purpose.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 17)
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen?” the Lord through Isaiah declares, “to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed to go free, and that ye break every yoke? 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 coverest him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; and the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 18)
“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; and if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones; and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places; thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach; the restorer of paths to dwell in.” [Isaiah 58:6-12.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 19)
I would give the word of the Lord to the churches, to our publishing houses, to our missionary stations, and to all our sanitariums: A great work of reformation is to be done in the hearts of all who engage in this work of restoration. We should now be putting away every self-exalting plan and become learners of Him who will teach us how we may become restorers of the breach, the restorers of paths to dwell in.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 20)
I am instructed to say to this people who have had such great light and such precious privileges, Take up your God-given responsibilities in the Spirit of Christ. Press close to His side, and learn how to do the work to which He has appointed you. Put away your love of supremacy, and seek for the experience which all must have who would enter in through the gates into the city of God. Those who are willing to be accounted as Christ’s little children may safely enter upon the work of our publishing houses and sanitariums. Those who will be partakers with Christ in His self-sacrifice will be partakers with Him in His glory when the Deliverer shall come. When I consider how much Christ has suffered for us, and yet how independent many of us often are regarding His claims, my heart is made sore. Of His life of humiliation in our behalf, the prophet Isaiah writes: “He is despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not,” disregarded His example. “Surely He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed....
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 21)
“He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before his shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare His generation? For He was cut off out of the land of the living; for the transgression of My people was He smitten.” [Isaiah 53:3-5, 7, 8.] O let all the churches awaken to their God-given responsibilities. Then there will be less crooked ways among our men of responsibility.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 22)
How can the servant of Christ exalt self when he considers the humiliation endured in his behalf? May the Lord quicken us by His grace.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 23)
Let us all bear in mind that we are ever to be earnest students in the school of Christ. If we will keep in the position of humble learners, our light will shine forth brighter and brighter unto the perfect day; and when our earthly labors are ended, and Christ shall come for His faithful children, we shall then shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of our Father. But before that time shall come, everything that is imperfect in us will have been seen and put away. All envy and jealousy and evil surmising and every selfish plan will have been banished from the life.
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 24)
The words of the prophet Isaiah are repeated to me at this time, as they have seen many times in my experience: “Arise, shine, for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. Lift up thine eyes round about, and see: all they gather themselves together, they come to thee: thy sons shall come from far, and thy daughters shall be nursed at thy side. Then thou shalt see, and flow together, and thine heart shall fear, and be enlarged; because the abundance of the sea shall be converted unto thee, the forces of the Gentiles shall come unto thee.... Thy people also shall be all righteous; they shall inherit the land forever, the branch of My planting, the work of My hands, that I may be glorified.” [Isaiah 60:1-5, 21.]
(22LtMs, Lt 416, 1907, 25)
Lt 418, 1907
Simpson, R. W.; Simpson, A. W. Loma Linda, California December 13, 1907 Previously unpublished. Mr. R. W. Simpson and Dr. A. W. Simpson
Long Beach, California Dear Brother and Sister Simpson:
I received your welcome letter today. W. C. White has just left us for his journey to Mexico, and my heart is a little sad that we must be separated; but the Lord’s work must be done.
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 1)
I spoke on Sabbath to a large company in the church in Los Angeles. Every seat was filled, and many were seated in the aisles. But every time I have spoken in that church I have had to suffer severely for it afterwards. Perhaps if I had had opportunity to rest, I should not have suffered so; but appointments were out that I should speak at Glendale, which I did. I opened the meeting with prayer and then spoke to the people for about one hour. There was a much larger number present than we had expected. The Lord gave me freedom in speaking. That night the influenza came upon me. But I was very grateful that I had had opportunity to speak to the people.
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 2)
My brother and sister, I have a great desire that as you shall take your place in the work, you may put your trust wholly in the Lord. I have felt a special interest in Dr. Preston Kellogg. I shall be thankful if you can be a help to him and to Dr. Jones. The Lord has me acquainted with the history of Dr. Jones, and I am very desirous that he shall give up his way and will to the way and the will of God.
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 3)
I rejoice that the Lord has wrought for you in restoring the child whom you thought must die.
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 4)
Brother Simpson, you have brainpower, but you do not fully realize the blessing of sanctification in your life. True godliness requires that we take God into our thoughts. Peter exhorts us as Christians that we live on the plan of addition. If we will add to our faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance, and to temperance patience, and to patience godliness, and to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness charity, we shall be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. “But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off; and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if you do these things, ye shall never fall; for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:9-11.]
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 5)
Here is your everlasting life insurance policy. I trust that all who are connected with the Long Beach Sanitarium will consider it their privilege to avail themselves of it. I have a great desire that those who take up work in that new institution will make this their time to take hold of the work presented in the first chapter of Second Peter. If you will work on the plan of addition, God will work for you on the plan of multiplication. “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you,” the apostle writes, “through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue; whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [Verses 2-4.]
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 6)
It is a fearful thing to trifle with the soul’s highest interests. The Lord will receive all who will repent and turn to Him. He forgiveth transgressions and sins.
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 7)
Brother and Sister Simpson, whoever shall connect with you in this work, let it be clearly understood that there is to be no censuring. The Lord calls you to take up your responsibilities as faithful servants of Jesus Christ. Make Him your entire dependence. The Lord will rejoice to make you both laborers together with God.
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 8)
In the near future there will be great need for us to have special help from the Lord. Seasons of trial and conflict are before us, and we shall need the consolation to be found only in the Source of all strength. We are to grasp with unhesitating obedience and with simplicity of faith the only Power that can prevail in the conflict with the powers of darkness. In God alone is to be our trust. If we will make Him our confidence, we are sure to realize our need; and an increase of faith and holy endeavor will be ours. We can overcome if we will cling in faith to the unfailing One.
(22LtMs, Lt 418, 1907, 9)
Lt 419, 1907
White, W. C. St. Helena, California December 1907 Previously unpublished. My Dear Son W. C. White:
I receive your cards stating your whereabouts, and where you intend to go next. I am thankful to be at home again, although were I free from the work of preparing books and answering letters, I certainly would choose to be in Southern California—not Los Angeles, but Glendale or Loma Linda.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 1)
I scarcely dared to speak to you on the morning you left; for I was on the point of breaking down. I was very glad indeed to have Sara [McEnterfer] and Clarence Crisler with me on my journey home.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 2)
On Sabbath I insisted on speaking once more in the place where our people hold their services, that I might give the message that the Lord had given me for them. When I went into the church, I had hardly strength enough to stand on my feet. There was a good congregation, among them several of the wealthy class. All listened with close attention, and the Lord, who is supreme, gave me, His weak servant, strength to deliver His message to the people. A spirit of solemnity rested upon me, and the Spirit of God upheld me.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 3)
I desired to speak to these people again on Sunday, but concluded that it was not best to venture too much. We left on Monday morning. I lay down on one of the seats in the car and obtained a little sleep and considerable rest. But when we arrived at Los Angeles, I had a very disagreeable experience in getting from the station to the restaurant. It was the day before Christmas, and the people were preparing for the holidays. The streets were crowded with carriages and people. We had to stand for some time on the sidewalk waiting for our car, while the crowd came and went continually. At times I had hard work even to keep my footing, but I said to myself, Be not thou cast down nor discouraged.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 4)
When we reached the restaurant we had to climb the stairs to the third story to Elder Haskell’s room. By that time I was quite exhausted and spent all the time there resting.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 5)
Again on returning to the station we were compelled to stand on the street amidst the confusion and bustle for a long time before the right car passed; and then at the station we had to press through the crowd of carriages, bicycles, and people to reach our train. I was very thankful when we were at last aboard the car that was to carry us to Oakland. We secured a drawing room which accommodated Sara, our housekeeper, and myself; and by this arrangement, the advantage of having a private room cost us only fifty cents extra.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 6)
The package of bedding was soon unrolled and our berths made up, and I assure you I was ready for my bed; for after so much confusion and bustle, I was quite exhausted. But soon, as has been my experience many times, I felt my weariness and anxiety leave me entirely; and all through the night I enjoyed a sense of peace and comfort and restfulness. I could not have rested more comfortably in my bed at home. The evidence was given me that the angels of the Lord were watching over me. I was awake many hours of the night, and yet not one disagreeable thought or feeling came over me. I wished that those who knew how weary I was when I left the restaurant could understand what comfort and peace I enjoyed. It was one of the most restful, peaceful nights I have passed for a long time. For this I praise the name of the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 7)
When we consider the times in which we live, and the many dangers by which we are threatened, I am urged to say to all who have had the light of present truth, Walk in the light as Christ is in the light.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 8)
To those who are engaging in commercialism in connection with the health food business, I am instructed to say: Keep your minds stayed upon God; avoid everything like extravagant investments; be prudent in your preparation of special foods. Satan is untiring in his efforts to invent schemes by which to draw money from our possession. Keep to the simple, nourishing foods that can be recommended in your health talks as within the reach of all.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 9)
Do not pay large sums of money for the secrets of the manufacture of certain special lines of food. These foods are not positively essential, and they are often very expensive. Many of these foods will be presented as wonderful productions. Foods prepared in a simple way will accomplish just as much good for your physical nourishment; and by proving your willingness to deny self, you will reap great blessing.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 10)
Your means is a treasure lent to you by God. That part which you invest for physical sustenance should be spent on simple, nourishing foods, such as you can ask the blessing of the Lord upon to the strengthening of your physical powers. Let not your food taste strongly of the greed of gold, so that it is difficult for you to give due consideration to the food that will sustain the soul—the saving truths of God’s Word, which bring spiritual life to those who learn to know their saving virtue.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 11)
Restrain your desire for a great variety of food or for foods that demand a great deal of preparation. Let the health reform diet stand in its own virtue. Take time to study the truth while you have opportunity to do this. Store the mind with the Scriptures which are essential for the spiritual life of the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 12)
All these unnecessary recipes had better be left alone and we prepare simple dishes that will not require a great deal of time, and yet be satisfactory. All that we eat should be nourishing, yet enjoyable. Do not make slaves of yourselves or of your children—slaves to appetite.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 13)
Satan is working through many agencies to lead men to the gratification of appetite, that they may be satisfied with temporal food, and the time be occupied with the invention of food to satisfy the physical desires. He is pleased to see men and women absorbed in the question of the preparation of temporal food; and this is coming to be an important study with many. But this need not be. The physical strength can be more easily preserved by the use of simple foods, and time and talent need not be needlessly expended. The talent thus invested is not a soul-saving investment. We need now that men and women and youth shall become intelligent concerning Bible truth, which if believed and obeyed will result in the saving of the soul.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 14)
We do not read of Christ eating of other than simple foods. Shall we not stop this concocting of new dishes and give our time to Bible study and Bible work? God calls us to the study of His Word, that we may be able to feed souls who are starving for the bread of life. These souls are to be found everywhere in the highways and the hedges, among the rich and the poor, the learned and the unlearned.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 15)
Men and women in their blindness boast of wonderful inventions and progress in the line of cookery, but much of it is done to satisfy the greed for money. The eye of God is on this manufacturing curse. He notes the inward guilt of those who give the powers of their being to the acquiring of knowledge that they may satisfy the greed of the soul to become supreme.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 16)
And thus it will be to the very close of this earth’s history. What message can the Lord give to His people to make them understand His will and cultivate simplicity in dress, simplicity in food, and set their tables with suitable, appetizing food, but not a great variety at one meal.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 17)
The Lord’s care extends over all His creatures. Consider the animal kingdom, the thousands of beasts and birds that know nothing of human care. But they are under God’s providence. His care provides even for the sparrow; it does not fall to the ground without His knowledge.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 18)
“And He spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”Luke 15:3-7.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 19)
Here is represented the very work that we need to do—to search for the souls who are perishing in their sins. Christ has given to every man his work. To those who are spending time and talents to find something to criticize, I am instructed to say, Cease your work of criticism, and go to those who know not the truth, to your unbelieving neighbors and friends, and give them this last message of mercy and warning. There are many who need your talent of influence. Study how to approach them. A thousand times more might be done for the advancement of the cause of God by those who know the truth.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 20)
Let every worker bear in mind the lesson of the parable of the lost sheep, considering the labor that was put forth for the one who had gone astray. Study how to approach men and women with the truths of God’s Word. By presenting the Word in a tactful, simply way, you will awaken an interest in the minds of those who have not now an intelligent understanding of its requirements. As you search for souls as they that must give an account, you will feel the need of softening the speech, and of bringing the disposition under the control of the Holy Spirit of God, that you may have success in finding the sheep that are lost.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 21)
What is the next step in the parable? They call together their friends and neighbors and relate their experience, saying, Rejoice with me, for I have found that which I had lost. And the neighbors rejoice. “And I say unto you,” the Saviour declares, “that likewise joy shall be in heaven.” [Verse 7.]
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 22)
Here is represented an experience of great value. Let those men who are entrusted with a work of responsibility consider the saving of souls as the chief work to be done, remembering that every soul saved causes heaven to rejoice because of the manifestation of the power of God revealed through converted agencies.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 23)
“Either what woman having ten pieces of silver,” the Saviour continued, “if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and search diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.”Luke 15:8-10.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 24)
The whole chapter teaches intense interest for souls and the importance of diligent effort in their behalf. There is work enough for every soul who will carry this burden upon his heart. Every one who has experienced the work of grace in his own soul should keep that experience alive by earnest labor for those who know Him not. Who will labor thus, who will seek God in earnest prayer in behalf of His church until the body of believers shall repent before God that they have lost so many opportunities to reach the souls perishing in their sins? We need consecrated men and women who will engage in this line of labor in every church, large and small.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 25)
Let those who claim to be converted bear in mind that their good works must bear witness that their faith is not merely a supposition, but a living reality. No one need be deceived or build his experience on the sand. Virtue is to be revealed in the life of the Christian that will represent the grace of Christ. These are the proofs that he is to give of the wonderful power of grace that converts a man from an evil worker to a worker of righteousness. These proofs of true reform revealed in the life entitle the Christian to all the blessings of heaven.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 26)
In the fifth chapter of Matthew Christ declares what is the influence of a godly life in the world. “Ye are the salt of the earth,” He says, “but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”Matthew 5:13.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 27)
Many have the name of being Christians, but their words and spirit and actions are such that they testify that they have lost their saving property; and as far as their influence for good in the world is concerned, they are worthless.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 28)
“Ye are the light of the world,” the Saviour continued. “A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid,”verse 14. Let us bear this in mind. The good works, the gracious words, the merciful deeds testify unmistakably to the character that God accepts. The heavenly light imparted by the example of Christ makes everyone who follows that example as a city that is set on a hill. He reflects light; the light cannot be hidden. “Let your light so shine before men,” the Saviour commands, “that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”Verse 16. Oh, that all to whom these words shall come might be led to consider the importance of their words and works to testify what manner of men they are!
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 29)
The truly converted man or woman gives to the world just that representation of character that represents the life and character of Christ. His light shines forth to all that are in the house. Wherever he is, his good works glorify God. The hasty speech is converted into the melody of kind and gracious words. In all his relations with the world he reveals the spirit of Christ. And all heaven rejoices in the evidence given to the world of what the true Christian should be in word and deed.
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 30)
Wherever we are we may hold communion with God. How great is the privilege of the children of God! He calls each by name and distinguishes His faithful representatives from those who serve Him not. “Ye are not of the world,” He declares, “even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth. As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:16-19.]
(22LtMs, Lt 419, 1907, 31)
Lt 420, 1907
White, W. C. St. Helena, California August 29, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Son Willie:
I have a message that I found in my diary yesterday, in regard to the book Christ’s Object Lessons. This was for the express purpose of giving in every school the opportunity to aid the ones who needed an education, to obtain it by using the book Christ’s Object Lessons.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 1)
There is ever a changing multitude in Los Angeles. This book, presented by students of the school, will teach them how to become missionaries. It is not God’s plan to beg of the people money to free the school from debt, when He has made provision that the sale of this book, if appreciated, will lift every debt and be a means of bringing many souls to the knowledge of the truth. This book should come into circulation, for it contains precious truth for the people.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 2)
Let there be no more calls for money for the schools. This order of things must be changed. God has made provision whereby the students can act a missionary, interested part for themselves. Elder Reaser might have worked in this line. Missionary fields are calling for help everywhere in foreign fields. And here, when everything is made ready to their hands, they turn aside from the beautiful gift the Lord signified I could give, with the help and assistance of the publishers of the book, that it could be a great blessing to the schools in handling it, the precious gift, themselves.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 3)
Let there be no more calls for the schools when the Lord has provided for this emergency.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 4)
I have a long article, just found, which I cannot get copied before Sabbath. I send you, W. C. White, a copy of a letter to Elder Burden, and next week I will send the articles from Diary, written in 1906.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 5)
I am to say, not one dollar of this gift of Object Lessons have I used for my own benefit. It was a free gift. And I want it appreciated.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 6)
Can write no more now. God bless you in your work. And tell Elder Reaser not to get in the way of calling for means when God Himself has provided means. He may sell all the books possible for this object, and let no more means be drawn from the Lord’s treasury.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 7)
I have no copy of this.
(22LtMs, Lt 420, 1907, 8)
Lt 421, 1907
Druillard, Brother and Sister “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 30, 1907 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Druillard:
I thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice for the health He has graciously given me.
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 1)
When my mind is so pressed, as it often is, upon subjects that cause me to feel intensely some nights, I cannot sleep but a few hours. But if my mind is not continuously overburdened, I have a clear brain to write on Bible subjects.
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 2)
I think of you all and would be glad to see you and visit many places, but my experience two years since has taught me to be wise unto my own salvation. I want to live to get into print the Bible history, which my mind urges [me to] bring out from the history of Solomon onward. I do not wish to leave my work just as it now appears. While bringing out books upon many subjects, I cannot do justice to Bible history, and yet it urges itself upon my mind.
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 3)
One thing I am decided not to do [and] that is look on the dark side and think and talk discouragingly. Talk faith I will; act faith I will. Talk unbelief and we will have plenty of doubts. Let us always believe. All that you will feel in discouragement will just as surely be reflected to others. The Lord would have us have pure faith. If we keep looking unto Jesus, we shall surely enjoy the sunshine of His presence and create an atmosphere about our souls that will become a blessing to those with whom we associate.
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 4)
Let the love of Christ reign in our hearts, and it will certainly reveal itself in our speech. We must be all light in the Lord. His goodness and mercy and tender compassion is for His people. Then let us honor our Saviour by reflecting light continuously. We need to keep in the spirit of prayer and in the spirit of cheerfulness to wins souls to Jesus Christ.
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 5)
It is a wonderful education to know how to deal with human minds of the young. I have thought much of individual responsibility to mold and fashion the minds of children and youth in every circumstance so that Christ may see we are doing our very best with His heritage. When we are doing our work with the thought that Christ has died for every soul, we are in the very best school to discipline ourselves. And not a human being is prepared to be a teacher unless he is constantly a learner of the great Teacher who gave His life to save the sinful. Why should we not be partakers of the divine nature, that we may work as He worked? I long after Jesus. I want to be more and more like Jesus so that I can better represent His character. We have nothing wherein we may boast. “Without Me,” saith the divine Teacher, “you can do nothing.” [John 15:5.]
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 6)
Let every soul yield to the heavenly power and learn of Him who hath invited us: Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. In thus doing, an experience is gained of more value than silver and precious stones. “For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:30.] Why, if we only learn this precious lesson we can never give way to hasty speech, for love of Christ in its hallowed influences reveals a sacred peace. The love of Christ wells up in the soul and flows through the soul like a stream in the desert, refreshing all who have any association with the human agent. Wherever the love and peace of Jesus reigns, there is peace with God. We all need to be seeking the eternal good of all we are associated with. I must say, “Praise the Lord, praise His holy name.” I love Jesus.
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 7)
I must now ask you a question. Where can I write to the manufacturer of these pens like the one you sent me? I think it is perfect; not any ink spot on my fingers. I can never go back to the old pens I have used. If anything should happen to this one, then what could I do?
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 8)
Love to all. I shall now end this, for my eyes are tired. My lamp is going out. I thank you over and over again for this pen. Please send me all the information I need and oblige me.
(22LtMs, Lt 421, 1907, 9)
Lt 422, 1907
Rice, Brother and Sister NP February 18, 1907 Previously unpublished.
Brother and Sister Rice,
(22LtMs, Lt 422, 1907, 1)
I am thankful that Satan is defeated, but only a partial surrender [has] been made. But the Lord has placed you on vantage ground. Now, my brother and my sister, I want you to understand that I shall [stand] by you; but now is our time and opportunity to make the most of the influence God has given you.
(22LtMs, Lt 422, 1907, 2)
Be assured I made no references to your past mistakes to demerit you at all, but these were constantly thrust before me as the reason that they could not trust you. I told them these past experiences the Lord has forgiven, and that these things placed you where you would not repeat them and that you could save others by guarding them from being entangled. And I want to say I have the uttermost confidence in the work that both of you can do and be free.
(22LtMs, Lt 422, 1907, 3)
You can do honor to God by helping others who are in discouragement. These are confronted in the Word by some things we comprehend [are] representations given in the Scriptures that the Lord required men to do to illustrate the iniquities of the people, and that their punishment would surely come. But the Lord would have you walk and work and do His will understandingly, as you have done.
(22LtMs, Lt 422, 1907, 4)
I was very glad for your remarks in regard to the tithe, for that may open some men’s and women’s eyes. This is as in the case [of] David’s being fed with the shew bread when he was in need of food. And your using the tithe was just a similar circumstance. But we have to guard these things lest the careless ones shall excuse themselves for being lax in the tithe. I do not consider this matter inexplainable but justifiable.
(22LtMs, Lt 422, 1907, 5)
I wish you to understand me and may the Lord make this matter which has transpired a means of preventing dominating and [the] exercise of a power coming in that will be to the great injury of God’s people—to be under the control of human judgment. That God has nothing to do with.
(22LtMs, Lt 422, 1907, 6)
Now, I want you [to] understand the meetings we have had have, I am sure, placed matters in a proper light, that your case will be much better understood. The strain upon you both, taken altogether, has been severe, but this experience in this stage of the work will surely enlighten many minds as [to] how they should treat one another. Be of good courage in the Lord.
(22LtMs, Lt 422, 1907, 7)