Brethren and Sisters “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 31, 1903 Portions of this letter are published in HP 83, 176, 226, 242; TDG 374; 11MR 29. + My dear Brethren and Sisters,—
I pray that you may be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” [1 Corinthians 15:58.] We are living amidst the closing scenes of this earth’s history, and to us comes the warning, “Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.” [1 Corinthians 16:13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 1)
Those who proclaim the third angel’s message must put on the whole armor of God, that they may stand boldly at their post, in the face of detraction and falsehood, fighting the good fight of faith, resisting the enemy with the Word, “It is written.” Keep yourselves where the three great powers of heaven—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—can be your efficiency. These powers work with the one who gives himself unreservedly to God. The strength of heaven is at the command of God’s believing ones. The man who makes God His trust is barricaded by an impregnable wall.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 2)
Be careful of your words. If any one speaks evil of you, even though it be without occasion, do not retaliate. It will not pay. Accuse no one wrongfully, and if you are wrongfully accused, keep silent. Live peaceably with all men, and let the atmosphere surrounding your soul be sweet and fragrant. If you will battle against selfish human nature, you will go steadily forward in the work of overcoming hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. By patience, longsuffering, and forbearance you will accomplish much. Remember that you cannot be humiliated by the unwise speeches of someone else, but that when you speak unwisely you humiliate yourself and lose a victory that you might have gained.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 3)
Be faithful in the daily duties of life. Many Christians are working at cross-purposes with God. They neglect the daily duties of life and tell us that they are waiting for some great work to come to them. The daily duties seem to them to be unimportant and uninteresting. They long restlessly for a large place. Day by day they lose opportunities to show their faithfulness. While waiting for some great work, their life passes away.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 4)
Do not fail to discharge your daily duties with the strictest fidelity. In the plan that God has for every Christian there are no nonessentials. There are lessons for each one to learn in the daily experience. Be patient, and perform faithfully the work given you, however humble it may be. Go about your work calmly, relying upon God for strength. Look not anxiously into the morrow. Today employ your time to the very best account. Today let your light shine for Christ, even in the performance of little duties. Tomorrow again present yourself to Jesus as one ready to do any work, be it ever so humble. The faithful performance of today’s duties will prepare you to take hold of tomorrow’s work with fresh courage, saying, “Hitherto hath the Lord helped me.” [See 1 Samuel 7:12.] Ever stand as minutemen before God. Let the prayer of your hearts be, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do? Imbue me with Thy Spirit, and strengthen me for Thy work.” Thus you will grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ. Pray much. Much prayer is necessary to successful effort. Prayer brings power. Prayer has “subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, ... turned to flight the armies of aliens.” [Hebrews 11:33, 34.]
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 5)
Prayer is the breath of the soul. Jesus lived in dependence upon God and communion with Him. To the secret place of the Most High, under the shadow of the Almighty, men now and then repair; they abide for a season, and the result is manifest in noble deeds; then their faith fails, the communion is interrupted, and the lifework marred. But the life of Jesus was a life of constant trust, sustained by continual communion; and His service for heaven and earth was without failure or faltering.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 6)
Christian workers can never attain the highest success until they learn the secret of strength. They must give themselves time to think, to pray, to wait upon God for a renewal of physical, mental, and spiritual power. They need the uplifting of His Spirit. Receiving this, they will be quickened by fresh life. The wearied frame and tired brain will be refreshed, the burdened heart will be rested.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 7)
The Christian worker must study the Word of God. Many are surprised into the commission of sin because of a failure to study the Scriptures. They were off their guard, and Satan found them an easy prey. The psalmist declares, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” [Psalm 119:11.] And in Paul’s letter to Timothy we read, “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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 8)
The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word. It was by His word that Jesus healed disease and cast out demons. And by His word He stilled the sea and raised the dead; and the people bore witness that His word was with power. He spoke the word of God, as He had spoken it to all the prophets and teachers of the Old Testament. The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ. It is our only source of power. Matthew 28:18-[20].>
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 9)
As our physical life is sustained by food, so our spiritual life is sustained by the Word of God. And every soul is to receive life from God’s Word for himself. As we must eat for ourselves in order to receive nourishment, so we must receive the Word for ourselves. “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.]>
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 10)
Yea, the Word of God is the bread of life. Those who receive and assimilate this Word, making it a part of every act, of every attribute of character, will grow strong in the strength of God. It gives immortal vigor to the soul, perfecting the experience, and bringing joys that will abide forever.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 11)
Do not allow anything to turn you aside from the path of self-denial. Of those who in ancient times engaged in contests of physical strength, we read, “Every man that striveth in the games exerciseth self-control in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.” [1 Corinthians 9:25.] As we engage in the great struggle, let us think of what we shall lose if we fail. We shall lose the eternal life purchased for us by the blood of the Son of God. Shall we, then, grudge the toil of eternal vigilance? If we do all in our power to resist evil and surmount obstacles, we shall gain the victory. Vigor will reward the efforts made to press toward the prize of our high calling in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 12)
Worldly attractions will be presented to draw the attention from the Lord Jesus; but laying aside every weight and the sin that so easily besets, we are to press forward, showing to the world, to angels, and to men that the hope of seeing the face of God is worth all the efforts and the sacrifices that the attainment of the hope demands.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 13)
“What things were gain to me,” Paul declares, “those I counted loss for Christ. Yea, verily, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord; for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but refuse, that I may gain Christ, and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of mine own, even that which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed unto His death; if by any means I may attain unto the resurrection from the dead....
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 14)
“I count not myself yet to have laid hold; but one thing I do, forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press toward the goal, unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 3:7-11, 13, 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 15)
“One thing I do.” [Verse 13.] Paul allowed nothing to divert him from the one great purpose of his life. He did many things. He was a wise teacher. His letters to the different churches are full of instructive lessons. He worked with his own hands at his trade, in this way earning his daily bread. “These hands,” he said, “have ministered unto my necessity.” [Acts 20:34.] He carried a heavy burden for the churches and sought earnestly to lead them in the right way. He was always seeking to help them in their difficulties, yet he declared, “This one thing I do.” In the busy activities of life, he never lost sight of his one great purpose—to press on toward the prize of his high calling.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 16)
My dear fellow workers, let the great purposes that constrained Paul to press forward in the face of hardship and difficulty lead you to consecrate yourselves wholly to God’s service. Whatever your hands find to do, do it with your might. Make your work pleasant with songs of praise. If you would have a clean record in the books of heaven, never fret or scold. Let your daily prayer be, “Lord, help me to do my best. Teach me how to do better work. Give me energy and cheerfulness. Help me to bring into my service the loving ministry of the Saviour.”
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 17)
Look upon every duty, however humble, as sacred because it is part of God’s service. Do not allow anything to make you forgetful of God. Bring Christ into all that you do. Then your lives will be filled with brightness and thanksgiving. You will do your best, moving forward cheerfully in the service of the Lord, your hearts filled with His joy.
(19LtMs, Lt 1, 1904, 18)
Lt 3, 1904
Druillard, Sister [N. H.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 7, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Sister Druillard,—
I have received and read your letter containing the sad news of your husband’s death. I had expected to see you both again. I mourn for you. It is the living who need consolation.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 1)
“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 2)
“And I heard a voice out of heaven, saying, 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.” [Revelation 14:12, 13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 3)
The voice that spoke these words was the voice of Christ, and we are all to say, Amen and Amen.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 4)
I am so glad that Brother Druillard was not left to suffer long. I have not one tear to shed, not one doubt to express. It is well, it is well, with his soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 5)
What is before the living, we know not. Let us live very near the Lord every day. The aged, experienced soldiers of Christ are laying off their armor at the feet of the Captain of their salvation. They await the sounding of the last trump.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 6)
John bears testimony, “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God: and the books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life, and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” [Revelation 20:12.]
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 7)
“And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven, saying,
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 8)
“Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men,
And He will dwell with them,
And they shall be His people,
And God Himself shall be with them,
And be their God.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 9)
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes;
And there shall be no more death,
Neither sorrow nor crying,
Neither shall there be any more pain;
For the former things are passed away.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 10)
“And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And He said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son.” [Revelation 21:2-7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 11)
Let us praise God that the sting of pain and of death can no more afflict our much-beloved brother. He is at rest. We are still amidst the shadows and the turmoil of earthly activities. Let us consider most earnestly the blessed hereafter. Let our faith pierce through every cloud of darkness, and behold Him who died for the sins of the world. He has opened the gates of Paradise to all who receive and believe on Him. To them He gives power to become the sons of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 12)
Let the afflictions which pain us so grievously become instructive lessons, teaching us to press forward toward the mark of the prize of our high calling in Christ. Let us be encouraged by the thought that the Lord is soon to come. Let this hope gladden our hearts. “Yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” [Hebrews 10:37.] Blessed are those servants, who, when their Lord comes, shall be found watching.
(19LtMs, Lt 3, 1904, 13)
Lt 5, 1904
Brethren and Sisters in the Medical Work in Southern California “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 8, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 229-232. To the Brethren & Sisters connected with the Medical Work in Southern California,—
I have read the letters that have been written to me regarding sanitarium sites in Southern California, and I will now try to write some things that have been presented to me for you.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 1)
The furnished building in Pomona, offered for twenty-five thousand dollars, is in some respects favorable for sanitarium work. In other respects it does not answer to the representation given me of what our sanitariums should be. More land would be needed. The time is fast coming when the controlling power of the labor unions will be very oppressive.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 2)
Again and again the Lord has instructed that our people are to take their families away from the cities, into the country, where they can raise their own provisions; for in the future the problem of buying and selling will be a very serious one. We should now begin to heed the instruction given us over and over again: Get out of the cities into rural districts, where the houses are not crowded closely together, and where you will be free from the interference of enemies.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 3)
Our sanitariums should not be situated in or near any city. And it is most important that in connection with them land be secured, that homes may be provided for those who help in the institution, and also that facilities for outdoor work be provided for the patients. Let houses be built for families who have not a firm hold of life. Let men and women work in field and orchard and garden. This will bring health and strength to nerve and muscle. Living indoors and cherishing invalidism is a very poor business. If those who are sick will give nerves and muscles and sinews proper exercise in the open air, their health will be renewed.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 4)
The most astonishing ignorance prevails in regard to putting brain, bone, and muscle into active service. Every part of the human organism should be equally taxed. This is necessary for the harmonious development and action of every part.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 5)
Many do not see the importance of having land to cultivate, and of raising fruit and vegetables, that their tables may be supplied with these things. I am instructed to say to every family and every church, God will bless you when you work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, fearing lest, by unwise treatment of the body, you will mar the Lord’s plan for you.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 6)
Many act as if health and disease were things entirely independent of their conduct and entirely outside their control. They do not reason from cause to effect and submit to feebleness and disease as a necessity. Violent attacks of sickness they believe to be special dispensations of Providence, or the result of some overruling, mastering power; and they resort to drugs as a cure for the evil. But the drugs taken to cure the disease weaken the system. If those who are sick would exercise their muscles daily, women as well as men, in outdoor work, using brain, bone, and muscle proportionately, weakness and languor would disappear. Health would take the place of disease, and strength the place of feebleness.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 7)
Let those who are sick do all in their power, by correct practice in eating, drinking, and dressing, and by taking judicious exercise, to secure recovery of health. Let the patients who come to our sanitariums be taught to co-operate with God in seeking health. “Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] God made nerve and muscle in order that they might be used. It is the inaction of the human machinery that brings suffering and disease.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 8)
A few words more in regard to the location of our sanitariums. Never, never should these institutions be established in the cities. They should be established in the country, amidst pleasant surroundings, and in connection with plenty of land. This is a positive necessity. Flower and vegetable gardens and orchards will be found to be health-giving agencies in the successful treatment of the sick. Many who come to our sanitariums to receive the benefit of these advantages will be blessed with improved health. So interested will they become in the work given them to do that they will forget their aches and pains.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 9)
It is because there is so little land in connection with the property at Pomona, that I seriously question the advisability of purchasing it. Land we must have, that the patients may be provided with outdoor employment.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 10)
The Potts’ Sanitarium, which is situated five miles out of San Diego, is now offered to us at a very low price. If I were younger, I should be strongly inclined to take that property and try to build up sanitarium work there. If we do not improve such opportunities, we may never find anything better. There are always some risks to run. This has been our experience from the beginning of the work until now.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 11)
My son has just let me read the letters that he has written to you, and what he says meets my mind. I will not write any more now, but if further light comes to me, will send it to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 5, 1904, 12)
Lt 7, 1904
Daniells, A. G. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 10, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Daniells,—
This afternoon Willie has been reading me some letters that must be answered at once.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 1)
We are very desirous that you and Brother Washburn shall attend the Nashville meeting. You should both act a part in that meeting. You should both bear a decided testimony to help matters in the Southern field. Attending this meeting will help you in the future in your work of helping the brethren in the South. You will be able to speak and write more intelligently in regard to the work in the South.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 2)
We are now to make determined efforts to draw together. We must not dishonor God by standing in disconnected companies. The oneness described in the wonderful prayer of Christ that is recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John should now be seen in our ranks.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 3)
“Sanctify them through Thy truth,” Christ prayed; “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.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 4)
“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.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 5)
“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 know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them; as Thou hast loved Me.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 6)
“Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 7)
“O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee; but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them.” [Verses 17-26.]
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 8)
“A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ said again, “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 to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 9)
Brother Daniells, both you and Elder Washburn will be needed at the Nashville meeting. I wish that Elder Prescott could attend also, but I suppose that he will be needed in Washington.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 10)
Brother Butler urges me to attend this meeting, but two years ago I nearly lost my life in making a trip to the East during the winter; and although I should like to attend the Nashville meeting as much as they would like to have me there, I dare not go. I dare not travel at this season of the year, and I cannot speak in heated rooms. When the camp-meeting season comes, and if my brethren want me to attend some general meetings, I will try to do so, if my health will permit. I can speak in a tent or in the open air much more safely than in a heated building.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 11)
We are all very busy, trying to complete Testimony No. 8. We are trying to put into this book those things that will be of the greatest help to our people.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 12)
Brother Daniells, let us not become discouraged. To become dispirited and downhearted is not the least help to soul or body. Let us be calm and patient, and let us put our trust in the One who knows our necessities. I am determined not to cherish one thought of unbelief. The Lord is our strength. Let us live in dependence on Him, closing the windows of the soul earthward and opening them heavenward. Our spirits will be sweetened and cheered by the sunshine of Christ’s righteousness.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 13)
The Word is full of exhortations to Israel to praise the Lord. “Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord.”“Let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord.” [Psalm 105:6, 3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 14)
Read the twenty-eighth chapter of Deuteronomy. “It shall come to pass, if thou shalt harken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all His commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth; and all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou wilt harken unto the voice of the Lord thy God:
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 15)
“Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 16)
“Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 17)
“Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 18)
“Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out....
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 19)
“The Lord shall establish thee an holy people unto Himself, as He hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the Lord thy God, and walk in His ways.” [Verses 1-6, 9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 20)
Everything in the universe calls upon those who know the truth to consecrate themselves unreservedly to the proclamation of the truth as it has been made known to them in the third angel’s message. That which we see and hear in the world calls us to our duty. The working of satanic agencies calls every Christian to stand in his lot and place.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 21)
Let us not allow ourselves to look on the dark side for a moment. God expects His redeemed heritage to sing His praise with gladness. Put not on an air of sadness; for the Lord is not glorified by unbelief and lamentation and woe. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy and love.
(19LtMs, Lt 7, 1904, 22)
Lt 9, 1904
White, Mabel “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 9, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 81-87. + My dear granddaughter Mabel,—
I have not been able to sleep since twelve o’clock. In my sleeping hours I have been troubled over your case.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 1)
Your mother, during her last sickness, said to me, “I do not know that I need to ask you, mother, to take a special interest in Ella, and especially in Mabel. She will need much care, in order to overcome her predisposition to pulmonary difficulties. The more she can be in the open air, the better it will be for her. She has an independent nature, and unless she is judiciously managed, she may bring much trouble upon herself in more ways than one. But you will know how to counsel her if she is in any danger.”
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 2)
I promised your mother that I would guard you faithfully. I should have done this even if she had not made the entreaty. I have always felt a special interest in you.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 3)
There are many things on which you must be guarded healthwise. For several years you will need to be very careful. You are ambitious, and at times inconsiderate and reckless.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 4)
As I have seen the delicacy of your eyesight, I have had misgivings as to whether you would be able to keep up studies in school. Light has been given me that if you will exercise great care, doing all in your power to preserve your eyesight, you may be able to study and may make a success of your school work. But you must be very careful. Do not misuse your eyes by reading books that are no help to you in your studies. Rest your eyes all that you can. Do not strain them at all.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 5)
This I have been instructed to say to you. I have ventured to make a trial of paying your way through school for this year. God has given you talents. Improve the advantages that you now have. Do not waste your eyesight in reading stories. Do not venture to trifle with your eyes.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 6)
The Lord desires you to be a sensible girl, and, by appreciating and improving the advantages given you, to develop into a useful woman, able to act a part in some line of service in the Lord’s cause.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 7)
I want you to listen to what I am going to say to you. You must on no account entertain thoughts of marriage. Such a thing must not be thought of until you have gained a decided victory over the dangers that threaten your physical health.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 8)
In order to obtain the full benefits of the educational advantages offered you, you must keep yourself free from attachments with young men. You are a minor, and you have no moral right to take yourself into your own control in this matter, as if you were free to do as you pleased. You have done wrong in following the course that you have in regard to the important question of marriage without asking counsel from your father and mother. I have questioned you again and again in regard to this matter, but you have evaded my questions. Some time ago you said that you liked _______, but that you had not decided to, or even thought of, marrying any one.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 9)
You have regarded the whole matter in a wrong way. Again and again I have charged you not to form any attachments for boys or young men. And you and Ella have assured me that you would not allow yourselves to be drawn into any familiarity with young men.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 10)
Last night words were spoken to me to speak to you. I was instructed that you have not been walking as a child should. Your course has not been what it should have been. You should be guided and controlled by your father. You have no right to do as you have done. But in spite of the cautions so delicately given, you have followed your own way. One such caution should have been sufficient.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 11)
You have no right to place your affections on any young man without your father’s and your mother’s full sanction. You are but a child, and for you to show a preference for any young man, without the full knowledge and sanction of your father, is to dishonor him. Your attachment to this young men is robbing you of a peaceful mind and of healthful sleep. It is filling your mind with foolish fancies and with sentimentalism. It is retarding you in your studies and is working serious evil to your mental and physical powers. If opposed, you become irritable and low-spirited.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 12)
Is this course of action an honor to your father? You should respect your father, whom you know to be honored of God. He has not had much time to give to the education and training of his children. They have had religious training, but not as much of their father’s presence as they should have had. Every father who, because he is called to public work, is obliged to deprive his children of the care that they should receive from him will have keen trials.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 13)
Home education means much. It is a matter of great scope. Abraham was called the father of the faithful. Among the things that made him a remarkable example of godliness was the strict regard that in his home he paid to the commands of God. He cultivated home religion. He who sees the education given in every home, and who measures the influence of this education, said, “I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” [Genesis 18:19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 14)
The father must not betray his sacred trust. He must not, on any point, yield up his parental authority. He is to be the priest and house-band of his home.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 15)
The moment that the child begins to choose his own will and way, that moment his education in discipline is to begin. This may be called an unconscious education. It is then that a work, conscious and powerful, is to begin. The greatest burden of this work necessarily rests on the mother. She has the first care of the child, and she is to lay the foundation of an education that will help the child to develop a strong, symmetrical character.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 16)
When the family is large, and the mother has many duties, care should be taken that the younger children are not neglected. As the older children grow up, they are to be taught to care for the younger ones.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 17)
Neither father nor mother is to permit blind affection to lead them to indulge their children. Frequently mere babies show a most determined will. If this will is not brought into subjection to a wiser authority than the child’s untrained desires, Satan takes control of the mind and fashions the disposition in harmony with his will.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 18)
Abraham did not allow Satan to control in his household. He realized the responsibility of the work committed to him, and he did not betray the sacred trust placed in his hand. He did not yield to the enemy who was striving to gain control in his home. He honored the law of God and strove earnestly to bring those, in his charge, up in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 19)
Every father and mother is answerable to the great Lawgiver for the children placed in their care. They are to guard their children with untiring watchfulness. Together parents and children are to walk in the way of the Lord, ruled and guided by His Holy Spirit. Obedience that the Lord has given to control in the home will prevent all disobedience on the part of the children and all oppression and cruelty on the part of the parents.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 20)
“I know him that he will command his children and his household after him.” [Verse 19.] This commanding on the part of Abraham, God justified. It is essential, and in harmony with the will of the Lord of love, that parents exercise wise, Christlike authority in the home. It is His love that requires parents to repress in the child all that savors of disobedience, all that would lead the child to dishonor his parents and to dishonor God. If children are not restrained, they will cherish ideas and take liberties that will make their example and influence a power for evil. He whose heart is love has spoken decidedly, saying that evil habits are to be repressed by the combined influence of authority and affection.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 21)
He who is chosen by God to bear responsibilities in the work carried on by His church, and to give counsel and advice, should set a correct example in his own family. His children should be taught to honor their father and their mother.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 22)
God has given rules for the guidance of parents and children. These rules are to be strictly obeyed. The children are not to be indulged and allowed to think that they can follow their own desires without asking the advice of their parents.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 23)
Holiness to God is to pervade the home. This will bring angels of God into the home circle. Parents and children are to educate themselves to co-operate with God. They are to bring their habits and practices into harmony with God’s plans.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 24)
From the rules that God has given for the guidance of parents and children, there can be no sinless swerving. God expects parents to give their children a training that is in accordance with the principles of His Word. Faith and works are to be combined. Everything that is done in the home life and in the school life must be done decently and in order.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 25)
God has given the ten commandments as His law for His household here below. The influence of every minister, every teacher, every physician is to be Christlike. All commonness, all cheapness is to be purged from every home. Of Cornelius it is said that he feared the Lord with all his house.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 26)
Parents are to keep the way of the Lord. Every other way is forbidden. Parents and children, make straight paths for your feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. There must be no laxness in the principles governing the family. The fear of God, reigning in the home, will bring the softening, subduing influence of the angels, and the hearts of parents and children will be filled with holy joy. The children are not to be allowed to be dross and refractory; for this is dishonoring to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 27)
Study the experience of Eli. His sons did wickedly, and he restrained them not. A priest and ruler in Israel, he should have ordered his household in accordance with the will of God. But wishing to shun the unpleasant task of correcting his sons, he allowed them to follow their own way. He did not manage his household according to God’s rules for family government. He followed his own judgment. The fond father overlooked the faults and sins of his sons in their childhood, flattering himself that after a time they would outgrow their evil tendencies.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 28)
Many are now making a similar mistake. They think they know a better way of training their children than that which God has given in His Word. They foster wrong tendencies in them, saying, “They are too young to be punished; wait till they become older, and can be reasoned with.” Thus wrong habits are left to strengthen until they become second nature. The children grow up without restraint, with traits of character that are a lifelong curse to them, and are liable to be reproduced in others.
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 29)
Terrible was the judgment pronounced on Eli. “The Lord said to Samuel, Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of everyone that heareth it shall tingle. In that day I will perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house. When I begin, I will also make an end. For I have told him that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not. And therefore I have sworn unto the house of Eli, that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be purged with sacrifices or offerings forever.” [1 Samuel 3:11-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 9, 1904, 30)
Lt 11, 1904
Brethren and Sisters at Nashville “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 7, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in The Southern Watchman, 03/01/1904. + Dear Brethren and Sisters at Nashville,—
I have a strong desire to be with you in your meeting at Nashville; for there are many things that I should like to say to you. But I dare not travel at this season of the year. I must not move unadvisedly. I have prayed much over this matter. At our morning and evening seasons of worship, and on my knees before God in the night season, I pray for the work and workers in the South.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 1)
We must have the truth on every point. And we must hold fast the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. We are to draw near to God, and then He will draw near to us. The God of heaven gave His Son to redeem us, and we are to become partakers of the divine nature, that we may be vessels unto honor, fit for the Master’s use.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 2)
We are not to draw ourselves into our shell, living only for self. Far different from this is the part that God expects us to act. Christ says, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.... 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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 3)
What God Expects of Us
God has given man more than a mere animal life. 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.] He expects those for whom He has made so great a sacrifice to show their appreciation of His love by following the example that Christ has set them, living lives that are in harmony with His will. He expects them to respond to the love He has expressed for them by denying self for the good of others. He expects them to use the powers of mind and body in His service. He has given them affections, and He expects them to use this precious gift to His glory. He has given them a conscience, and He forbids that this gift be in any way misused; it is, rather, to be exalted to the place of authority to which He has assigned it.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 4)
Answering Christ’s Prayer for Us
“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world,” Christ prayed. “Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.” [John 17:16, 17.] Since we are to be sanctified through the truth, it becomes us to know what is truth—the truth for this time. This truth is to be exemplified in the lives of God’s people. They are to make progress heavenward by looking to Jesus and walking as He walked.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 5)
No error is of the truth, and error never sanctifies the receiver. It is by the truth that we are to be sanctified. Error possesses no sanctifying power. It cannot save the soul. How careful then should the teachers of truth be that their words are true words—words such as fell from the lips of the great Teacher.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 6)
“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. Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word.” [Verses 18-20.] It is by the word which we bear that others are to be led to Jesus. How clear and truthful then should be this word.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 7)
“That they all may be one,” Christ continued, “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.” [Verse 21.] These words hold out before us wonderful possibilities. Shall we not individually seek to answer the prayer of Christ? Shall we not strive for the unity which He prayed might exist among His followers? What is this unity to do?—It is to show the world that God sent His Son to save sinners. Since it is to have so blessed a result, should not the followers of Christ do all in their power to obtain it?
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 8)
The Faith That Works by Love
Wherein do we exercise the faith that works by love and purifies the soul? This faith is a living, working principle. Read the chapter in regard to the gifts that God has bestowed upon His church, and let the faith and intelligence of every believer arouse into sanctified action.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 9)
Have you had light upon the Scriptures? Have you advanced from light to greater light? With the light of the Holy Spirit shining upon the Word, have we any reason for becoming uncertain in regard to what is truth? any reason to go back to an uncertain faith? No, no! The foundation of God standeth sure. Sentiments, theories, and doctrines will not of themselves save any one. Doctrine, however true, is powerless to save without a living faith in God.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 10)
“How Shall We Escape?”
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 11)
“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to His own will?” [Hebrews 2:1-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 12)
These words, spoken by the apostle Paul, come sounding down along the [ages] to our time. They lose none of their significance with the lapse of time, but increase in importance and power. They are to be received and obeyed by those who believe that we are living in the last days of this earth’s history. It becomes us, now, just now, to obtain a deep and living experience in the things of God. Read the second chapter of Hebrews to the people. Notice carefully the closing verses:
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 13)
“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. Therefore in all things it behoved 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.” [Verses 14-18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 14)
“Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; who was faithful to Him that appointed Him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. For this Man was counted worthy of more honor than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honor than the house. For every house is builded by some man; but He that built all things is God.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 15)
“And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; but Christ 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.” [Hebrews 3:1-6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 16)
“Harden Not Your Hearts”
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 17)
“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.)
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 18)
“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.” [Verses 7-13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 19)
“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 to whom sware He that they should not enter into His rest, but to them that believed not?
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 20)
“So we see that they could not enter in, because of unbelief.” [Verses 14-19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 21)
Will the people of God living in 1904 hear and believe these impressive words?
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 22)
“Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them; but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” [Hebrews 4:1, 2.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 23)
A lack of faith in the truth of the living God is a fearful sin. I have been instructed to hold up before you as something of the highest value, a living, growing faith. Our hearing of the Word must be mixed with faith, in order for that which we hear to be of any profit to us. We must hear in faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 24)
We need, O so much, the sanctification of the Holy Spirit. We are warned not to act carelessly, indifferently, independently of God, but to act in humility of mind, that the preaching of the Word may bring us profit.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 25)
“The word of God is quick and 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. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight; but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. Seeing then 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 that cannot be touched with the feeling 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 12-16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 26)
Danger Through Self-Exaltation
In order to appreciate these words of warning and encouragement, we must with earnestness and perseverance carry out the instruction they contain, working with faith and confidence, in humility and sincerity, ever pressing toward the prize of our high calling in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 27)
Never are we to give place to self-exaltation. Strong temptations will come to those who are working for Christ to do some wonderful thing to bring self into prominence. Here is our danger. But while we look to God, and obey God, we shall be safe.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 28)
The Lord will surely humble those who uplift themselves. Men are not safe unless they are clothed with the garments of Christ’s righteousness. A holy joy, a sanctified experience it is our privilege to have. The apostle Paul points us to the true source of peace and joy and victory. He says, “Rejoice in the Lord.” [Philippians 3:1; 4:4.] There is to be no ambitious exalting of self. “Without Me ye can do nothing,” Christ declares. [John 15:5.] Then give all the glory to God. “Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness.” [Psalm 97:12.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 29)
God will honor those who honor Him, but those who will not be restrained from following a wrong course will be left to their own wisdom. “Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourself about with sparks; walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand: ye shall lie down in sorrow.” [Isaiah 50:11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 30)
The Need of Constant Communion With God
Christ has warned us against the danger of departing from the faith. There is need of constant, intimate communion with God. Only as we hold this communion with Him shall we be kept from making shipwreck of faith. I am instructed to warn our people that everything that can be shaken will be shaken, that those things that cannot be shaken may remain. Temptations will come to every soul. Every one will be tried and tested. Those who strive to hold fast to the faith will find that they must indeed pray and watch unto prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 31)
“It Is Written”
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 32)
We are not to establish our faith on the hope of seeing miracles. Satan will work miracles to accomplish his purposes. We must rely on a “Thus saith the Lord.” It is the Word of God and perfect, sanctified unity that are to make Christ’s waiting ones complete in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 33)
In the wilderness of temptation Satan tried to induce the Saviour to work miracles to prove that He was the Christ. We read:
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 34)
“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward an hungered. And when the tempter came to Him, he said, If Thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.” [Matthew 4:1-3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 35)
But it was part of the covenant made in heaven, that Christ, having taken humanity, was not to work miracles in His own behalf, but was to stand as a man among men. And therefore He answered Satan with the words:
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 36)
“It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” [Verse 4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 37)
“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.” [Verses 5, 6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 38)
In quoting this promise, Satan omitted the words, “to keep Thee in all Thy ways,” that is, in all the ways of God’s choosing. [Psalm 91:11.] Jesus refused to go outside the path of obedience. While manifesting a perfect trust in the Father, He would not place Himself, unbidden, in a position that would necessitate the interposition of His Father to save Him from death. He would not force Providence to come to His rescue, and thus fail of giving man an example of trust and submission.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 39)
Christ met the tempter with the weapon that we are to use in our contests with the enemy—“It is written.”“It is written,” He said, “Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” [Matthew 4:7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 40)
Once more Satan was foiled. Once more Jesus had resisted the ambitious challenge.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 41)
Then Satan took Him “up into an exceeding high mountain, and showeth Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and saith unto Him, All these things will I give Thee, if Thou wilt fall down and worship me.” [Verses 8, 9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 42)
Divinity flashed through humanity, and Satan had no power to resist the command. Writhing with humiliation and rage, he was forced to withdraw from the presence of the world’s Redeemer.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 43)
The record of Christ’s contest with Satan was chronicled for the help and encouragement of the people of God today. In this contest Christ worked no miracle and gave no sign. His only dependence was God and His Word. In the future, Satan is to come down with great power, to work by signs and wonders. He will bring down fire from heaven in the presence of his devotees, and, to those who have allowed themselves to be led away from the only true foundation—the Word of God—will give proof of his authority. He will deceive if possible the very elect. Those who are standing firm upon the Word of the everlasting God will meet Satan with the weapon with which Christ met him—“It is written.” This will be of more power than the working of miracles. The people of God will conquer through the Holy Spirit’s working, which is stronger than miracles or ought else. It is from the Word that we are to obtain power.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 44)
God’s Covenant Our Refuge
The covenant that God made with His people at Sinai is to be our refuge and defense. The Lord said to Moses:
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 45)
“Thus shalt thou say to the house of Jacob, and tell 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.” [Exodus 19:3-6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 46)
“And Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words.” [Verse 7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 47)
“And all the people answered together, and said, All that the Lord hath spoken we will do.” [Verse 8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 48)
This covenant is of just as much force today as it was when the Lord made it with ancient Israel.
(19LtMs, Lt 11, 1904, 49)
Lt 13, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 12, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in ML 185. + Elder G. I. Butler My dear and much-respected Brother,—
I am sending you a long letter that I have written to those assembled at Nashville. I hope that the instruction contained in this letter may be of some help to the brethren there.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 1)
Healthwise, I am doing very well. For a long time I have not had a serious cold. I am sleeping better than I did. I had some rheumatic pains in my left arm and lower limbs, but my limbs are now free from pain, and my arm and shoulder are better. I worked early and late just the same, though suffering a good deal of pain. I kept praying and am now very much better.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 2)
One night Sara and Maggie, when preparing for bed, heard me praying earnestly for the presence of the Holy Spirit. The suggestion was made that Sara should waken me, but she said no; for I used frequently to pray aloud in my sleep.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 3)
Since then a marked change for the better has taken place in me physically. I am so grateful to my heavenly Father for this.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 4)
In regard to attending the meeting at Nashville, I should certainly go, my brother, if I had light from the Lord that this was my duty. But I have very important work here, and I must tell you that I dare not leave this work. We are pressing things as fast as possible in an effort to get Testimony Vol. 8 ready for publication. The matter that will be contained in this book is certainly needed in the field just now. And we are also trying to finish up the manuscript for Ministry of Healing. I am very anxious to see this book in circulation.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 5)
Were it not for the work to be done on these two books, which I know should be in the field, I might be inclined to attend the Nashville meeting and run the risk that I should have to run by traveling at this season of the year. But my duty is too evident for me to question. Should I go, W. C. White would have to go with me, and this would mean a complete break-up of our work. I should very much like to be with you, but I dare not leave my work here. I will try to help you all I can by sending you letters and articles.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 6)
I must tell you that I do not favor the plan of holding important meetings at this season of the year. The weather is damp and windy and very disagreeable. It would be well for our brethren to give thoughtful consideration to the advantages to be gained by holding important general meetings at a time when the weather is likely to be pleasant. If things should go hard—across the grain—during such meetings, the sunshine without would lessen the effect of the unpleasantness within. With some, it makes every difference whether the sun is shining or not. Blessed sunshine! It sometimes seems that those who meet to worship God are more susceptible to the influence of the Spirit of God when the sun is shining. The smile of God seems to rest upon His people, and praise and thanksgiving flow from their hearts to Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 7)
When the camp-meeting season comes, I shall be pleased to attend some general meetings. I thank you and the other brethren in the South for wanting me to be at your meeting. Could I go, I should try to do my best to help you.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 8)
The Lord will be with you, I know. We pray for you night and morning, and we feel of good courage in your behalf. Many prayers are ascending to heaven for you. Do not look on the dark side; for by beholding we become changed. Think of the mercy, the goodness, the unfailing compassion and love of our God, and of the blessings that He has bestowed on us. “Hope thou in God;”“wait patiently for Him;”“and He shall bring it to pass.” [Psalm 42:5; 37:7, 5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 9)
When trials come, remember that they are sent for your good. “All things work together for good to them that love God.” [Romans 8:28.] When trials and tribulations come to you, know that they are sent in order that you may receive from the Lord of glory renewed strength, and increased humility, so that He may safely bless and support and uphold you. In faith and with the hope that “maketh not ashamed,” lay hold of the promises of God. [Romans 5:5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 10)
O how good the Lord is to us all and how safely we may trust Him. He calls us His little children. Then let us come to Him as to a loving Father. It is His desire that the bright beams of His righteousness shall shine forth from our faces and in our words and deeds. If we will love one another as Christ has loved us, the barriers that separate us from God and from one another will be broken down, and many obstacles that hinder the Holy Spirit’s flowing from heart to heart will be removed. We shall praise the Lord more when we have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 11)
I shall not cease to pray for you. I am glad that Brother and Sister Haskell are with you. Keep firm hold of God. If He is your helper, no mistakes be . He stands ready to help every one. Look to Him alone. Trust Him with all your heart. He will carry you and your burdens.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 12)
As I read your words of invitation, I long to be with you in your meeting. In the night season I am talking with you, ever encouraging you to lay hold of the unfailing power of the One who said, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 13)
I want to see Edson and Emma very, very much. I pray often for them. I am continually cautioning and encouraging them, urging them to be of good courage and to walk humbly yet trustingly before God, leaning upon the mighty One, refusing to fail or become discouraged.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 14)
We shall visit you in the South when we make our trip to the East. We expect to leave here in about three months, after the two books that we now have on hand are completed.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 15)
I thank the Lord, Brother Butler, that you can bear so good a report regarding your health. Do not give long discourses. Then you will be able to speak oftener. You must be careful on this point, or you will wear yourself out before your time; because when you speak, you are carried away by an intensity of feeling and forget the strain that you are bringing on yourself.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 16)
I send this admonition, also, to your fellow worker Elder Haskell. Neither of you must exhaust your vitality by giving long discourses. Keep yourselves where you will always be ready to speak words in season. Have faith in God, and hold fast to the power that never fails.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 17)
During the meeting I shall be with you in prayer and in faith and in love and in courage, and will lift with you as much as possible by earnest intercession with God. My heart is with you, and may the Lord abundantly bless and sanctify you. May He strengthen your faith and perfect your love for Him, that the heavens may be opened to you and by faith you may be able to endure the seeing of Him who is invisible.
(19LtMs, Lt 13, 1904, 18)
Lt 15, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 12, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 17MR 298-299. + Dear Brother Butler,—
I have received and read your letter of January 1 and will now try to answer it.
(19LtMs, Lt 15, 1904, 1)
I cannot advise you to keep any one on the Board of the Publishing Association who does not fill that position faithfully and with consecrated ability. Those who are placed in positions of trust in God’s work must be as true as steel to principle, honoring their position. Those who are on the ground will know best what should be done in the case to which you refer.
(19LtMs, Lt 15, 1904, 2)
I have feared that Brother W. O. Palmer would not be successful in his business enterprises. You will remember, perhaps, that when I was leaving Nashville, he was there, [and] he asked me in regard to the food business. I told him that if this business were entered into for self-profit, it would not have God’s commendation. He said, “That settles the matter for me. I will keep out of the food business.”
(19LtMs, Lt 15, 1904, 3)
Brother Palmer should not enter into large business enterprises; for he is too free with money, and he will always be worsted. I did not expect the Dixie Food Company to prove a success, and I did not want Edson to have any part in it whatever.
(19LtMs, Lt 15, 1904, 4)
I feel very, very sorry for Brother Palmer. If he has done wrong in any way, try to help him, for Christ’s sake. Save him if you can. I hope and pray that he will come out of this experience without losing his hold on God. The light given me regarding him is that his greatest danger is in uniting with worldly men, and thus losing his interest in the truth. I have a letter written to him that I must send him.
(19LtMs, Lt 15, 1904, 5)
Is it not your duty to take up the case of the man who says that Brother Palmer has wronged him, and see that justice is done him? Brother Palmer has excellent abilities. When he is sanctified, body, soul, and spirit, God can use him. But when he loses his hold on God, his natural tendencies to wrong take control, and he deals unjustly.
(19LtMs, Lt 15, 1904, 6)
Lt 17, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 12, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Butler,—
Brother Brunson’s case is a heavy burden on my soul. I have had a letter written to him for a long time, but have not dared to send it until last night, when I sent it to you, asking you to forward it to him. I held this letter back because I feared that if I should send it at the wrong time, Brother Brunson would make it an excuse for throwing his whole influence on the wrong side. He is in trouble, I know, over the things that you have mentioned, but I dare not touch the matter. I feel very much burdened in regard to him. Save him if you can, but do not allow one line of matter containing his misleading theories to be printed in our papers. Keep out the evil leaven, but do all you can to save Brother Brunson. He is to be treated with brotherly kindness, but he should be made to understand that he cannot be allowed to mingle the leaven of evil, such as the doctrine of once in grace always in grace, with points of faith that we have ever held sacred.
(19LtMs, Lt 17, 1904, 1)
The Sabbath question is a most vital one. In Eden the Lord set the seventh day apart to be observed as holy. He sanctified it as the day of His rest. It is His memorial of creation, and it [is] to be held as sacred through all time.
(19LtMs, Lt 17, 1904, 2)
I think that Dr. Kellogg and Elders Tenney and Jones should know in regard to the position that Elder Brunson holds.
(19LtMs, Lt 17, 1904, 3)
Lt 19, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 13, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2MCP 508. + My dear children Edson and Emma,—
Brother Butler has made a most earnest request for us to attend the Nashville meeting. I should indeed be pleased to go, but I cannot leave my work here. We are very, very busy. We are just closing up Volume Eight of the Testimonies, and we are also trying to get the manuscript of Ministry of Healing ready for the printer. When these two books are ready for publication, I think that we shall make a visit to the East, if the Lord gives me strength, and we shall then see you. I pray much for you; often in the night season I am talking and praying with you. My great desire for you is that you may hide yourself with Christ in God.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 1)
Edson, whatever may be done at the meeting, keep calm. The Lord would have you far less anxious than you are. If, after you and we have done our best, money does not come in, who can help it? There is a work to be done in Washington and in other places, and the lack of means is a great perplexity. But we must not lose faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 2)
Do not burden your mind with too many things. Keep the channel free and unobstructed for the inflowing of the Holy Spirit. Whatever may take place, keep your mind stayed on God, and do not become in any way confused.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 3)
As I talked with you in the night season, I saw that you were brain-weary, and I said to you, “Cast all your care upon the Lord; for He careth for you.” [1 Peter 5:7.] Lay your burdens and perplexities upon the Burden-bearer. The peace of Christ in the heart is worth more to us than anything else.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 4)
When I think of you, Edson, carrying so many burdens, I think of how in Battle Creek your father was so unexpectedly stricken by paralysis, and I warn you to be careful. I ask you to unload, to rid yourself of the many burdens and perplexities that prevent you from giving your heart and your head rest. Remember that there is need of giving attention to matters of eternal interest.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 5)
Edson, do not become anxious, but rest in the Lord. I should be so glad to see you free in spirit. Take time to consider, and to determine not to allow the enemy to gain any advantage over you. Live by faith in the Son of God. We are daily to be preparing for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those who love Him. In order to do this, we must live in harmony with Him. I mean to keep my heart emptied of all that is displeasing to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 6)
I dropped asleep while I was writing, with my pen in my hand. How much can pass before one in a short time! I heard some one praying most earnestly. Then the word came, “The Lord is near. Are you ready to meet Him? Are your lamps trimmed and burning?” Edson, you said, “I am not ready.”“But the Lord will not wait. Go ye forth to meet Him.” Then you said, “Lord Jesus, forgive my sins and pardon my lack of faith.” I saw your countenance light up, and you said, “Where is Emma?” You put your arm around her, and said, “O Emma, how sinful my past life now looks to me. Had I hid my life with Christ in God, I could have had peace and happiness all the way along. I see how much more I might have honored the Lord had I always trusted in His wisdom to arrange matters, without losing the confidence that I should ever have maintained.”
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 7)
You seemed to catch a glimpse of Jesus, and you said, “He loves me; He has looked upon me; and my soul is all light in the Lord.”
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 8)
I awoke, and again I slept, and other scenes passed before me. I seemed to be in a meeting. I heard your voice raised in prayer, and I listened with deep interest. With brokenness of heart you repeated the words:
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 9)
“Who can understand his errors? cleanse Thou me from secret faults. Keep back Thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me; then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.” [Psalm 19:12-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 10)
I heard expressions of praise and thanksgiving from many lips. The thought of what would be should Christ come just then made a deep impression upon minds, and many sought the Lord most earnestly. The deep movings of the Spirit were felt, and many by humble confession found their way out of darkness.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 11)
I heard a voice repeating the first part of the twenty-fourth psalm:
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 12)
“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof;
The world, and they that dwell therein.
For He hath founded it upon the seas,
And established it upon the floods.
Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord?
Or who shall stand in His holy place?
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 13)
“He that hath clean hands and a pure heart;
Who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity,
Nor sworn deceitfully.
He shall receive the blessing from the Lord,
And righteousness from the God of His salvation.
This is the generation of them that seek Him,
That seek Thy face, O Jacob.”
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 14)
The Power of the Spirit was seen and felt. The words were repeated:
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 15)
“O taste and see that the Lord is good;
Blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.
O fear the Lord, ye His saints;
For there is no lack to them that fear Him.
The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger;
But they that fear the Lord shall not want any good thing.”
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 16)
That which I have pictured is possible. Shall we not make it a reality? The representations that pass before me show the gracious purposes that God has toward His people. They show what ought to be, and the work that needs to be done. The Lord would have them made a reality.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 17)
I ask those assembled in council at Nashville to consider these words and cast out of their hearts everything that savors of disunion. God knows the secrets of the heart. He will certainly pardon the transgressions of His people if they will make a united effort to answer the prayer of Christ recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John. How much longer will God’s people be content to stay in the dark chamber of unbelief? My brethren, come together in unity. Give to the world from henceforth a clear demonstration of the power of divine grace. Bear witness to the sanctifying, uplifting power of the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 18)
“I in them, and Thou in Me,” Christ prayed; “that they may be made perfect in one; that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 19)
“Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world.” [Verses 23, 24.]
(19LtMs, Lt 19, 1904, 20)
Lt 21, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 2, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 344-345. + Dr. J. H. Kellogg
Battle Creek, Michigan My dear Brother,—
I have received your letter, and also a copy of a circular letter recently sent out by you. Thank you. I have ever had an intense desire to see you standing firm in God, working under the direction of the great head Physician.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 1)
My brother, I ask you to remember that Christ is our Leader. The beings that He has purchased with His blood are to study the life that He lived in this world, in order to learn what path they are to follow. His voice is heard, “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.] He who supposes, like Nebuchadnezzar, that he can lift up or cast down, will find that he is reckoning without God.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 2)
I ask you to consider Him who, though the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, took humanity upon Him and came to this world to show what those who serve Him may become. God has given you precious knowledge regarding the treatment of the sick. But you have not appreciated this knowledge as the gift of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 3)
I am thankful that you see something of what has been lost by your consenting to take the heavy burden of business matters, and by your efforts to control the general work. Again and again your devisings have hindered the advancement of the work of God. Time has been lost during which victories might have been gained if you had stood out of the way. Your vision has been narrow.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 4)
I am glad that you see the evil influence of division. Had you put yourself where you should have been, there would long ago have been a united company, and medical missionary work, in connection with the gospel ministry, would have had a far-reaching influence for good. This I know; for the truth has been presented to me too clearly for me to turn away from it.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 5)
You have manifested altogether too much kingship in your work as a physician. For the last twenty years warnings in regard to this have been presented to me. I have been instructed that had you acted your part in giving recognition to men who were deserving of recognition, we should today have had men doing as good a work as yourself in some things—physicians qualified to fill important positions of trust. But there is a dearth of workers at a time when we so much need men who show all-around efficiency because they acknowledge God and Christ as supreme.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 6)
Christ is your example. If you fall short of following the example that He came to our world to give, God could not safely admit you into the heavenly courts.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 7)
Infinite possibilities are placed within the reach of every human being who in humility and contrition returns to his allegiance to God, as a little child acknowledging the authority of His law and obeying its precepts. The Father and the Son have provided for man great things, broad and high and deep and inexpressible. This they have done that man, becoming one with Christ in God, might trade on his talents to advance the kingdom of heaven in this world. But man, choosing the kingship, will, in pursuance of his object, reveal what self will do by its devising, setting aside the only One to whom belongs the kingship, who is the Alpha and Omega of all things, beside whom there is none else.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 8)
God, the living, personal God, the author and ruler of nature, is above all science. He is acquainted with science that is inexplainable to the greatest minds in our world. In His sight the nations before Him are as a drop in the bucket. He taketh up the isles as a very little thing. Lebanon is not sufficient to burn, or the beasts thereof for a burnt offering.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 9)
How few have any knowledge of God! How few understand the greatness and majesty of our God! Human language cannot define Him. His ways are past finding out.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 10)
God sees that the world is in need of cleansing. In the very near future, this cleansing will come. It will at first be done in a limited degree, and then with greater and still greater power, till men will see that God means to bring them to repentance.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 11)
“Behold, the Lord maketh the earth empty, and maketh it waste, and turneth it upside down, and scattereth abroad the inhabitants thereof. And it shall be, as with the people, so with the priest; as with the servant, so with his master; as with the maid, so with her mistress; as with the buyer, so with the seller; as with the lender, so with the borrower; as with the taker of usury, so with the giver of usury to him. The land shall be utterly emptied, and utterly spoiled; for the Lord God hath spoken this word.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 12)
“The earth mourneth and fadeth away, the world languisheth and fadeth away, the haughty people of the earth do languish. The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.” [Isaiah 24:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 13)
Notice the sure result of heaping indignity upon the laws of God’s kingdom: “Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate; therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left. The new wine mourneth, the vine languisheth, all the merryhearted do sigh. The mirth of tabrets ceaseth, the noise of them that rejoice endeth, the joy of the harp ceaseth. They shall not drink wine with a song; strong drink shall be bitter to them that drink it. The city of confusion is broken down; every house is shut up, that no man may come in. There is a crying for wine in the streets; all joy is darkened, the mirth of the land is gone. In the city is left desolation, and the gate is smitten with destruction.” [Verses 6-12.]
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 14)
Then the scene changes. The prophet says: “When thus it shall be in the midst of the land among the people, there shall be as the shaking of an olive tree, and as the gleaning of grapes when the vintage is done. They shall lift up their voice, they shall sing for the majesty of the Lord, they shall cry aloud from the sea. Wherefore glorify ye the Lord in the fires, even the name of the Lord of Israel in the isles of the sea....
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 15)
“And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth. And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days they shall be visited. Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the Lord of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before His ancients gloriously.” [Verses 13-15, 21-23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 16)
There are in the Word of God declarations so plain that those who take heed will be preserved from self-exaltation. Their lives will be such that through them the Lord will be revealed to the people.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 17)
The twenty-fifth chapter of Isaiah shows what will be in the future, when the Lord shall have destroyed all pride and self-exaltation.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 18)
“O Lord, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will praise Thy name; for Thou hast done wonderful things; Thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. For Thou hast made of a city an heap; of a defenced city a ruin; it shall never be built. Therefore shall the strong people glorify Thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear Thee. For Thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; even the heat with the shadow of a cloud; the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 19)
“And in this mountain shall the Lord make unto all people a feast of fat things, a feast of wine in the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined. And He will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death in victory; and the rebuke of His people shall He take away from all the earth; for the Lord hath spoken it.
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 20)
“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us; this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation. For in this mountain shall the hand of the Lord rest, and Moab shall be trodden down under Him, even as the straw is trodden down for the dunghill. And He shall spread forth His hands in the midst of them, as he that swimmeth spreadeth forth his hands to swim; and He shall bring down their pride together with the spoils of their hands. And the fortresses of the high fort of thy walls shall He bring down, lay low, and bring to the ground, even to the dust.” [Verses 1-12.]
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 21)
“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 for ever; for in the Lord JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.” [Isaiah 26:1-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 21, 1904, 22)
Lt 23, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 1903 This letter is published in entirety in SpM 341-343. + Dr. J. H. Kellogg
Battle Creek, Michigan My dear Brother,—
I praise the Lord for the letters that I have recently received from you. I greatly desire that you may now make a thorough work of repentance for time and for eternity. So long have you been retrograding toward union with the world, that it is difficult for you to see where you might now be standing, had you constantly advanced heavenward. You have lost many blessings because you have not felt your need of light.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 1)
If your faith in the Word of God is strengthened; if you will fully accept the truths that have called us out of the world and made us a people denominated by the Lord as His peculiar treasure; if you will unite with your brethren in standing by the old landmarks, then there will be unity. But if you remain in unbelief, unsettled as to the true foundation of faith, there can be no hope of any more unity in the future than there has been in the past.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 2)
I am instructed to say that you need to be taught the first principles of present truth. You have not believed the messages that God has given for this time. Think you that while you remain in doubt and unbelief, you can be fully united with those who have stood for the truth as it is in Jesus, and who have accepted the light that God has given to us as a people?
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 3)
Ask yourself candidly whether you are sound in the faith. Do all in your power to come into unity with God and with your brethren. As a people, we cannot receive the full measure of the blessing of God, while some who occupy leading positions are working against the truth that for years we have held sacred, and obedience to which has brought us what success we have had.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 4)
“Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write: These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks: I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars; and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name’s sake hast labored, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.” [Revelation 2:1-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 5)
If you had kept the faith, you would not have left your first love, and you would not have brought yourself into the unsettled condition in which you have been for years.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 6)
“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 which remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God.” [Revelation 3:1, 2.]
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 7)
These words point out your true spiritual condition. The warning comes: “Dr. Kellogg is not a converted man. Some of his associate physicians are so deceived by Satan that they are unable to distinguish between the true and the genuine, the false and the deceptive. They stand directly in his way, hindering him from making a thorough work of repentance.”
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 8)
You need an entire change of heart before you can discern the error into which you have fallen. You have listened to the archdeceiver. You do not discern where the sophistries you have received will lead. Read carefully the fifth chapter of Hebrews. You have no time to lose. The angel of God calls, “Close up the ranks. John H. Kellogg, come into line.”
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 9)
A Bible institute should be held in some place where medical missionary workers and ministers may meet together to study the Scriptures. Let the Bible explain its own statements. Accept it just as it reads, without twisting the words to suit human ideas. “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.]
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 10)
Teach All Nations
The gospel commission as recorded in Matthew was given not only to the disciples of Christ who were then living, but to all who should afterward receive Him. Upon every one who accepts Him as a personal Saviour is placed the burden of proclaiming the gospel message. Will the church today refuse to recognize its obligation to do the work so plainly outlined in the words: “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.” [Matthew 28:19, 20.] Were it not for the promise of Christ’s presence, we might well draw back. But He says, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Verse 20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 11)
This work is not to be confined to a few. The proclamation of the gospel is not to be limited to one city or to one state. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations.” [Verse 19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 12)
God is in earnest with His people. He calls upon them to overcome the spirit of covetousness. We must be careful not to tie up the Lord’s means by establishing institutions larger than is consistent with the plan of God. It is His purpose that facilities shall be provided for the advancement of His work in all parts of the world. Large sums of money are not to be invested in one or two places. The erection of many buildings in one place reveals a selfish outlay of means. Thus the money brought into the treasury by the liberality of God’s people is absorbed in one place by those having charge of the work in that place. When men are freed from selfishness, they will not make such earnest efforts to grasp all that they possibly can for the place in which they are most interested. They will be willing to sacrifice their ambitions in order that other places may receive a share of the means available for the advancement of God’s work.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 13)
Christ Our Only Hope.
As we see the condition of mankind today, the question arises in the minds of some, Is man by nature totally and wholly depraved? Is he hopelessly ruined?
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 14)
Men have sold themselves to the enemy of all righteousness. They cannot redeem themselves. Of themselves they can do no good thing. But there is a way of escape. When man sinned, Christ offered to stand as his substitute and surety, in order to provide a way whereby the guilty race might return to loyalty. He took humanity and passed over the ground where Adam stumbled and fell. Without swerving from His allegiance, He met the temptations wherewith man is beset.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 15)
Only by accepting Christ as a personal Saviour can human beings be uplifted. Beware of any theory that would lead men to look for salvation from any other source than that pointed out in the Word. Only through Christ can men sunken in sin and degradation be led to a higher life. Theories that do not recognize the atonement that has been made for sin, and the work that the Holy Spirit is to do in the hearts of human beings, are powerless to save.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 16)
Man’s pride would lead him to seek for salvation in some other way than that devised by God. He is unwilling to be accounted as nothing, unwilling to recognize Christ as the only One who can save to the uttermost. To this pride Satan appealed in the temptation that he brought to our first parents. “Ye shall be as gods: ye shall not surely die,” he said. [Genesis 3:4, 5.] And by a belief of his words, they placed themselves on his side.
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 17)
Of Christ it is written, “There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” [Acts 4:12.] “In all things it behoved 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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 23, 1904, 18)
Lt 25, 1904
Brethren and Sisters in the Southern Union Conference “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 12, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in AH 18-19; MM 96-97; 9MR 239-240; RH 09/07/1905. + To my brethren and sisters in the Southern Union Conference,—
God would have the standard lifted higher and still higher. The church cannot abridge her task without denying her Master. Meeting houses must be built in many places. Is it economy to fail to provide in our cities places of worship where the Redeemer may meet with His people? Let us not give the impression that we find it too great an expense to provide properly for the reception of the heavenly Guest.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 1)
In laying plans for building, we need the wisdom of God. We should not needlessly incur debt, but I would say that in every case all the money required to complete a building need not be in hand before the work is begun. We must often move forward by faith, working as expeditiously as possible. It is through a lack of faith that we fail of receiving the fulfilment of God’s promises. We must work and pray and believe. We are to move forward steadily and earnestly, trusting in the Lord, and saying, I will not fail nor become discouraged.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 2)
Let our brethren in Nashville and in all parts of the South lay aside their doubts and come over to the side of faith. Let them say, “We will do our best. No longer will we question the work and the ways of the Lord. From this time we will believe the word of the Lord, and obey His command to ‘Arise and build’ [Nehemiah 2:20], whether all the money required is in sight or not.”
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 3)
The Lord has instructed me that in some places there are buildings suitable for our work, and that we can secure these buildings at reasonable cost.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 4)
Our churches need an increase of true piety. When liberal offerings and a just tithe are paid by all, many more facilities can be provided for the carrying forward of the Lord’s work. Let there be systematic giving on the part of all. Some may be unable to give a large sum, but they can lay aside each week a small sum for the Lord. Let the children act their part. Let parents teach their children to save their pennies to give to the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 5)
The gospel ministry is to be supported by self-denial and self-sacrifice. Through the self-denying labors of God’s people, others will be brought into the faith, and these in turn will help to increase the offerings made for the carrying forward of the Lord’s work.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 6)
When we pray and believe, trusting God’s promises, He will work in our behalf; He will co-operate with us. When we come to Him with the simplicity of little children, He will hear our prayers. He will give success in every lawful undertaking. But He may not always answer our prayers just as we desire Him to. His way is not always our way. He who reads the future may see that what we desire would not be for our best good or for the glory of His name.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 7)
The Duty of Parents
God is greatly dishonored by the neglect of parents to train their children for Him. Many parents are approaching the judgment with their work undone. If the mothers in our churches would work perseveringly for the salvation of their children, denying the inclination to read novels and to spend much time in the making of fashionable garments, much more would be done for Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 8)
Parents, work earnestly for the conversion of your children, that they may become missionaries for Christ. In private, and at the family altar, pray for them. Allow them to help you in missionary work. Let your life show them that you love God and that you love them. Let them see that you have an interest in their welfare. Act your part faithfully. Give them encouragement. You yourselves like to know that your efforts are appreciated. Then let your children know that you appreciate their efforts to help.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 9)
Every home should be a place of love, a place where the angels of God abide, working with softening, subduing influence upon the hearts of parents and children.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 10)
A Warning Against Deceptions
We are living in perilous times. We need to search the Scriptures diligently and prayerfully, that we may avoid weaving into our faith dangerous errors.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 11)
I warn our church members, Let no one beguile you into the belief that God is an essence pervading nature. Such an idea is a specious delusion. Let all be on guard against such suppositions. These subtle theories, clothed in beautiful garments, prepare the way for greater errors, which, if accepted, will lead even conscientious believers in the truth away from their steadfastness to false doctrines.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 12)
From time to time we need unitedly to examine the reasons of our faith. It is essential that we study carefully the truths of God’s Word; for we read that “some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] We are in grave danger when we lightly regard any truth; for then the mind is opened to error. We must take heed how and what we hear. We need not seek to understand the arguments that men offer in support of their theories, when it may be readily discerned that these theories are not in harmony with the Scriptures. Some who think that they have scientific knowledge are by their interpretations giving wrong ideas both of science and of the Bible. Let the Bible decide every question that is essential to man’s salvation.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 13)
Christ Our Only Hope
As we see the condition of mankind today, the question arises in the minds of some, Is man by nature totally and wholly depraved? Is he hopelessly ruined?
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 14)
Men have sold themselves to the enemy of all righteousness. They cannot redeem themselves. Of themselves they can do no good thing. But there is a way of escape. When man sinned, Christ offered to stand as his substitute and surety, in order to provide a way whereby the guilty race might return to loyalty. He took humanity and passed over the ground where Adam stumbled and fell. Without swerving from His allegiance, He met the temptations wherewith man is beset,
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 15)
Only by accepting Christ as a personal Saviour can human beings be uplifted. Beware of any theory that would lead men to look for salvation from any other source than that pointed out in the Word. Only through Christ can men sunken in sin and degradation be led to a higher life. Theories that do not recognize the atonement that has been made for sin, and the work that the Holy Spirit is to do in the hearts of human beings, are powerless to save.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 16)
Man’s pride would lead him to seek for salvation in some other way than that pointed out in the Scriptures. He is unwilling to be accounted as nothing, unwilling to recognize Christ as the only One who can save to the uttermost . To this pride Satan appealed in the temptation that he brought to our first parents. “Ye shall be as gods; ye shall not surely die,” he said. [Genesis 3:4, 5.] And by a belief of his words, they placed themselves on his side.
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 17)
Of Christ it is written, “There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” [Acts 4:12.] “In all things it behoved 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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 18)
(19LtMs, Lt 25, 1904, 19)
Lt 27, 1904
Irwin, Brother and Sister [G. A.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 18, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brother and Sister Irwin,—
I must ask to be excused from writing a long letter today; but I feel like sending a few words, because you, Brother Irwin, are so thoughtful as to write to me often, and your wife has been very faithful in sending me letters. I receive encouraging reports from Brother and Sister Kress also, and from other friends. I thank you all.
(19LtMs, Lt 27, 1904, 1)
During the past few months, I have had so much writing to do in regard to the personality of God, and other matters of grave importance, that I have worked very steadily, early and late. I have endeavored to warn our people against the delusions of the last days.
(19LtMs, Lt 27, 1904, 2)
Brother Irwin, I should like to suggest that if Brother Burden could be given supervision of some line of outdoor work, that would take him into the open air, it would be for the health of his soul as well as his body. We hope that soon there will be made some changes that will bring brightness into the soul of Brother Burden. Both he and his wife are very much appreciated by me. His case, as well as that of his precious wife and her sisters, has been opened before me. They are all valuable workers. Let us consider the fact that Brother and Sister Burden have worked exceedingly hard, and have sacrificed their all, in order to advance the cause. The Lord will reward them for their faithful service. I love the whole family, and I know that the Lord loves them. I sincerely hope that in the hearts of all, there will be felt the deep moving of the Spirit of God. The transforming influence of the Spirit will make possible a blessed blending.
(19LtMs, Lt 27, 1904, 3)
My prayer is that our beloved Brother and Sister Burden may remain connected with the Sanitarium, and that they may use all their sanctified ability in an effort to make the work in Australia a success. Plan for him to spend more time outdoors. Constant sedentary employment is not good either for him or his wife. I desire that they shall live and be in health and act their part in the place where they can do the most good.
(19LtMs, Lt 27, 1904, 4)
Lt 29, 1904
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 17, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SD 191; 8MR 351. + Dear Brother and Sister Burden,—
I should be so pleased to see you and hope that some day I may. I am so sorry that the temptations of the enemy have come to you. I entreat you to dismiss Satan. Close the door against his temptations. My dear and much-respected brother, I find that the enemy is robbing you of your courage. The Lord desires you to be of good courage. Brace up. You can be a help and a blessing to the cause in Australia in connection with the Sanitarium. But, my dear brother, do not mark out a course of your own, which you are determined to follow. The Lord does not want you to do this.
(19LtMs, Lt 29, 1904, 1)
You take a gloomy view of things. All the time Satan is working on every hand to destroy faith and to make people unhappy. He has been and still is working on the mind of Dr. Kellogg. So long has the doctor given the enemy encouragement that he has lost his bearings. The message to the Laodicean church is a faithful description of his case. I have hoped that he would right himself up. He has made some moves in the right direction, but it is like plucking out the right eye or cutting off the right hand for him to admit any mistakes he has made.
(19LtMs, Lt 29, 1904, 2)
Brother Burden, I advised you not to take the burden of the inside management of the Sanitarium, because the light given me for you was that your health would be greatly improved by outdoor work. I have been instructed that your stomach trouble is aggravated by your dietetic habits. You need to make a decided change in some respects, else you will not improve in health. I was instructed that if you would change your dietetic habits, and keep your mind free from worry, you would be a new man. May God help you, Brother Burden, to do this. Give your digestive organs the most favorable opportunity to do their appointed work.
(19LtMs, Lt 29, 1904, 3)
Do not think that you must leave the Sanitarium because differences have arisen. Take up the work in a way that seems best until you have assurance that it is your duty to disconnect from the institution. Blend in Christian love with your fellow workers, and do not allow yourself to be easily wounded. When you become interested in the salvation of perishing souls, you will not mind the little differences that are so common in the association of human beings with one another.
(19LtMs, Lt 29, 1904, 4)
I had to learn my lesson when much younger than I am now. When my husband and I were living in Rochester, New York, carrying on the publication of the Review and Herald, there were twenty-two who every day gathered round our family board. These workers were of different temperaments and dispositions. We had much to try us and many perplexing problems to solve. Under great difficulties and with little money, we were endeavoring to carry forward the proclamation of present truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 29, 1904, 5)
I purposed in my heart that no word or act of mine should cause irritation. When others were irritated, I would say, “We are all Christ’s little children, members of His family. Let us bring all the sunshine that we can into our home. Do not speak one word that would hurt the feelings of another. When you are tempted to speak or act unadvisedly, look to Jesus, and remember that when the feelings are stirred, silence is eloquence.”
(19LtMs, Lt 29, 1904, 6)
Lt 31, 1904
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.]; Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 17, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in UL 31. + Dear Brother and Sister Burden and Brother and Sister Kress,—
The Lord will greatly bless you if you will come into unity. But He cannot place His approval on the spirit of disunion that exists. The grace of God is not revealed by this spirit. All of you have a part to act in changing the present condition of things. Will you not strive to answer the prayer of Christ? You are not all of the same stamp of character, but by showing tact and consideration, you can work together in harmony. We are to love one another, Christ says, “as I have loved you.” [John 13:34.]
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 1)
You can all harmonize in Christian love and sympathy, each accommodating himself to the other. I do not say that a separation between Brother Burden and Dr. Kress would be wrong, but, my brethren, if the cause demands your service in the same place, do not separate, but fulfil God’s purpose for you by blending together. Christ addresses you all when He says, “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.] Read and study the prayer that Christ offered for His disciples just before His crucifixion, and determine to become one in heart with your fellow workers. A rich blessing will come to you as you do this. None of you needs be unhappy for a moment.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 2)
Christ’s prayer was the preface to the sacrifice that He was about to make for us. It is an illustration of the intercession that He is offering for us before the Father.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 3)
“Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth,” He prayed. “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.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 4)
“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 know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:17-23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 5)
Today the One who offered this prayer is interceding before the Father in behalf of the beings He has redeemed. He presents them to Jehovah, saying, “I have graven them upon the palms of My hands.” [Isaiah 49:16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 6)
Sanctification through the truth, oneness with Christ—this is God’s purpose for us. By their sanctification and their unity, Christians are to give evidence to the world that a perfect work has been done for them in and through Christ. Thus they are to bear witness that God sent His Son to save sinners.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 7)
Will you not let Christ carry on this work of sanctification in your hearts? You may all be complete in Him. You have the assurance that through the sanctification of the truth you may be made perfect in one. From the light God has given me, I know that harmony would prevail if you were all willing to give up your special preferences. Do not grieve the dear Saviour’s heart of love and your own souls by clinging to your own ideas. I beg of you all to do your part in answering the prayer of Christ. Concede your individual preferences, and do not think of separating because you can not agree. You would dishonor Christ were you to do this. You would weaken yourselves spiritually, and rob yourselves of an experience that you need. You can work together in harmony if self is crucified, and Christ reigns in heart and mind.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 8)
I love you all, and I have confidence in you all as dear children of God, beloved of Him. True, you do not always see things in the same light. Remember that the more you make of little differences of opinion, the more firmly seated will become the habit of making precise rules, which would better not [be] made.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 9)
Study the words that Christ spoke to His disciples in the upper chamber just before His trial and crucifixion.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 10)
“Let not your heart be troubled,” He said; “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 11)
The Saviour is acquainted with the mental suffering of His children. He knows how at times their hearts are wounded and bleeding. He would have the afflicted soothed and helped. He says to us, “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” [Galatians 6:2.] “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” [Romans 15:1.] We are to relate ourselves rightly to one another, even though to do this demands sacrifice. Christ made an infinite sacrifice for us, and should we not be willing to sacrifice for others? We are to guard carefully against wounding or bruising the hearts of God’s children; for when we do this, we wound and bruise the heart of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 31, 1904, 12)
Lt 33, 1904
Faulkhead, N. D.; Salisbury, W. D. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 19, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 243. + Dear Brethren Faulkhead and Salisbury,—
I will try to write you a short letter to send in the mail that leaves here tomorrow. I have written but few letters to Australia of late; for my time has been closely occupied in writing articles to meet special issues here.
(19LtMs, Lt 33, 1904, 1)
If in every step that we take we have the wisdom that comes from above, we shall have a clear understanding in regard to the foundation of our faith, and we shall give the trumpet a certain sound. We shall be able to speak understandingly of the evidences of our faith, and to give a reason for the hope that is in us, showing that it is not a false faith, but a genuine faith that has brought us out from the world to stand as God’s chosen people.
(19LtMs, Lt 33, 1904, 2)
I have been working early and late and have had a very trying time. But I am not disheartened or discouraged. My faith in the leadings of the Spirit of God has become evidence as the things we have looked for have become realities. As evidence after evidence has answered to our faith, our belief has grown stronger and stronger that we shall not be disappointed in the future.
(19LtMs, Lt 33, 1904, 3)
I have had fears that there would be some misunderstandings as to how I regard the book Living Temple. This book contains misleading statements and never should have been published. There is in it the beginning of theories which, carried to their logical conclusion, would destroy faith in the sanctuary question and in the atonement. I do not think that Dr. Kellogg saw this clearly. I do not think that he realized that in laying his new foundation of faith, he was directing his steps toward infidelity.
(19LtMs, Lt 33, 1904, 4)
I write you this that you may know that I am opposed to all such productions.
(19LtMs, Lt 33, 1904, 5)
This morning I rose at two and read sixty or seventy pages of matter that will appear in Testimony 8, which is soon to be published. I think that the instruction contained in this book will be a safeguard to our people.
(19LtMs, Lt 33, 1904, 6)
May the Lord bless and strengthen you and keep your feet firmly fixed on the foundation upon which God’s people have been standing for the past fifty years is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 33, 1904, 7)
Lt 35, 1904
Farnsworth, Brother and Sister [E. W.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 19, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in PC 34. + Dear Brother and Sister Farnsworth,—
I have not written to you for a long time. This is because I have been pressed beyond measure with other writing. I could not have done more than I have.
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 1)
The Lord has greatly helped me healthwise. Difficulties that I have had for twenty-five years have been removed. I have used no medicine, but for hours during the night season, when I was unable to sleep, I prayed for the healing power of God. I asked the Lord to restore my eyesight, to strengthen my heart, and to relieve the spinal difficulty. I have improved wonderfully. My health is better this winter than it has been for many years. The great Physician has wrought in my behalf, and I praise His holy name.
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 2)
I should be very much pleased to see you and talk with you. But will this ever be?
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 3)
Later. I wrote so far, and then went down to dinner. After dinner Willie came to my room, and we read together the letters received in the noon mail. Brother Daniells sent us a copy of the letter he has written to Elder Irwin in regard to your coming to America, attending the large camp-meetings that will be held, and then going to England to connect with the work there for a time. W. C. White and I have talked this matter over, and I cannot see how you could better serve the cause of God. We hope that no objection will be raised to your coming. If it is in the order of God for you to come, I hope that the call may be favorably responded to.
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 4)
So perhaps we may meet again. I hope so. I am thinking of making a visit to the East this summer and staying at Washington for several months. We expected to leave here in about two months. Willie wrote to Elder Daniells about our plans, and he has written back for us to come at once. I do not know just what we shall do. I do not think that I shall go before the cold weather is over. But Willie may go sooner, to help the brethren in laying their plans for the summer’s work and to make arrangements for our stay in Washington.
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 5)
We desire to move in the direction that the Lord would have us go. The Lord will lead us if we have faith and trust in Him. We cannot afford to be without a close union with Christ. We must have the guidance of the One who knows the end from the beginning.
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 6)
I will say in closing that we should be much pleased to unite with you for a time in camp-meeting work in America. I think that I shall attend a number of camp-meetings.
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 7)
In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 35, 1904, 8)
Lt 37, 1904
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 18, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 103-104. Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
I have received instruction in regard to the use of flesh meat in our sanitariums. Flesh meat should be excluded from the diet, and its place should be supplied by wholesome, palatable food, prepared in such a way as to be appetizing.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 1)
Those who come to our sanitariums for treatment should be provided with a liberal supply of well-cooked food. The food placed before them must necessarily be more varied in kind than would be necessary in a home family. Let the diet be such that a good impression will be made on the guests. This is a matter of great importance. The patronage of a sanitarium will be larger if a liberal supply of appetizing food is provided.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 2)
Again and again I have left the tables of our sanitariums hungry and unsatisfied. I have talked with those in charge of the institutions, and have told them that their diet needed to be more liberal and the food more appetizing. I told them to put their ingenuity to work to make the necessary change in the best way. I told them to remember that what would perhaps suit the taste of health reformers would not answer at all for those who have always eaten luxuries, as they are termed. Much may be learned from the meals prepared and served in a successfully conducted hygienic restaurant.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 3)
Brother and Sister Kress, unless you give much attention to this matter, your patronage will decrease instead of increasing. There is danger of going to extremes in diet reform.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 4)
When a letter came to me from Cooranbong, saying that Dr. Kress was dying, I was that night instructed that he must have a change of diet. A raw egg, taken two or three times a day, would give the nourishment that he greatly needed.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 5)
I feared that Dr. Kress would not live till my prescription reached him, but the Lord graciously spared his life.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 6)
Last night I was in my sleep talking with Dr. Kress. I said to him, You must still exercise care in regard to extremes in diet. You must not go to extremes either in your own case or in regard to the food provided for the helpers and patients at the Sanitarium. The patients pay a good price for their board, and they should have liberal fare. Some may come to the Sanitarium in a condition demanding stern denial of appetite and the simplest fare, but as their health improves, they should be liberally supplied with nourishing food.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 7)
You may be surprised at my writing this, but last night I was instructed that a change in the diet would make a great difference in your patronage. A more liberal diet is needed.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 8)
Will you not give heed to this instruction? It will be good for you as well as for the patients.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 9)
I will not write more on this subject now. I have a deep interest in the family at the Wahroonga Sanitarium. I have their special good in view, and this is why I have written as I have. I woke at half-past eleven and rose at half-past one to write this letter.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 10)
In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 37, 1904, 11)
Lt 39, 1904
Haskell, S.N. Refiled as Lt 39a, 1903.
Lt 41, 1904
Haskell, S.N. Refiled as Lt 283, 1903.
Lt 43, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 14, 1903 Portions of this letter are published in 12MR 112. + Dear Brother Butler,—
I received and read your letter this morning. I am deeply interested in anything regarding the work in the South. I think I understand the situation there.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 1)
I hope that Elder Daniells will attend your conference. He can help you in many ways. I wish him to be able to take a live interest in the work in the South, especially in the work at Nashville.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 2)
May the Lord impart to us His own light. The doctrine of a wonderful experience of holiness and sanctification that has been taught in Battle Creek and other places has been as leaven put into meal. I fear greatly for the results of this fanaticism. The experiences we passed through in the early days of the message have always led me to feel, when I see men professing to occupy a high platform of righteousness, that something will follow of which we should be ashamed, something that will work harm.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 3)
We certainly need clear, spiritual eyesight. When I hear of theories being presented relating to my Father and my God, I am afraid lest the Lord shall be presented by finite man in a manner to belittle and dishonor Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 4)
You well know my position. We are on the earth as combatants. This is no time or place for us to be negligent, indifferent, or careless. We have a heaven to win and a hell to shun. There is frequently presented to me a scene of conflict and of determined opposition. How can it be otherwise when we are in an enemy’s country?
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 5)
In the public games held in ancient times a prize was placed in the view of those who were engaged in the contest. And for a mere chance of winning this paltry recompense, men were willing to submit to most painful trials. They gladly practiced self-denial and endured a severe strain in order to fit themselves for the contest. And shall not those who are animated with the hope of the gospel enter with equal enthusiasm into the contest to win the “far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory”? [2 Corinthians 4:17.] Shall they, with the heavenly reward in full view, be less anxious or make only a feeble effort for success? Let us tax every spiritual muscle and sinew in the effort to secure the eternal reward.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 6)
When one of the contestants in these games felt himself weakening, he would lift his eyes to the coronet in full view. The sight gave him fresh animation, and gathering up his powers, he pressed forward with renewed intensity of effort.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 7)
What a lesson is this for those who have before them the prize of eternal life in the mansions our Saviour has gone to prepare! Let us contemplate our heavenly treasure. We are not to allow our minds to dwell upon discouraging subjects. No one will be a winner in the great contest unless with earnest prayer and diligent study of the Word he exerts every spiritual muscle and sinew, keeping his eye fixed on the Author and Finisher of our faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 8)
We are not to be content with a vague supposition or a general belief as to what is truth. We must have the saving truth that brings with it the keeping power of God. An eternal reward is to be gained. Christ is watching, seeking to encourage and strengthen every soul striving for the victory. He holds up to his view the crown of life, that by looking, his faith may lead him to put forth renewed energy.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 9)
Peace and Unity
Let us strive for peace and unity. We need to study carefully and prayerfully the prayer of Christ for His disciples. Their unity in Christ through the belief of the truth carries to the world a convincing testimony that they are taught by Him. Under the Holy Spirit’s influence, peace and harmony will prevail. Spiritual peace and harmony bring health to the church, even as physical health is promoted by the harmonious action of all parts of the body. I am instructed to urge upon our churches everywhere the importance of studying the prayer of Christ, that they may come into the unity expressed in the words:
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 10)
“I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one, that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 11)
Why should not all strive to be made perfect in one through the sanctification of the truth? It is our duty to avoid the expression of ideas that would arouse difference of opinion and engender strife.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 12)
God is the Author of all good. All our blessings flow from Him, and they are given for the purpose of better fitting us to work to His glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 13)
As they have received the compassion and mercy and love of God, let men in positions of responsibility show compassion toward their fellow workers, even though these workers may have erred and gone out of the way. The Lord says to the men standing at the head of His work: “Walk softly before Me, and I will be your guide and your strength. You are not to hinder any of My servants, or destroy or lessen the influence of their work. He that abideth under the shadow of the Almighty shall be delivered from the snare of the fowler. The meek will I guide in judgment, the meek will I teach my way.” [See Psalm 91:1, 3; 25:9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 14)
The greatest provocation that man can give would not hurt us if we would not put ourselves in the way by a manifestation of supposed authority. We become presumptuous, and God allows our pride to be hurt. Those who have learned to forgive and to pass by injuries have learned the surest way of baffling and defeating the enemy. Many things that appear to be formidable may be overcome by the grace of God revealed in human kindness and love. Divine grace is for you and for me if we will hide ourselves in Christ. Let our prayer be, “Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.” [Psalm 61:2.]
(19LtMs, Lt 43, 1904, 15)
Lt 45, 1904
Harper, Walter NP January 19, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MCP 322-323. Mr. Walter Harper My dear Brother,—
I have been reading over the letters sent you last July. I think the matter is plainly stated. You have neglected those duties that a husband can and should perform for his wife. This has made it very disagreeable for Sister Harper. You have thought that you must discipline her and teach her your ways. You have thought that as your wife she must follow out your ideas. But for her to have done this would have been to bind herself under a yoke, as a bondslave. I want you to understand that it is not your duty to try to blend your wife’s identity with yours, or to try to control her movements by your own.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 1)
“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.” [Matthew 6:22, 23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 2)
These words have a first and a second sense, a literal and a figurative meaning. They are full of truth in regard to the bodily eye, with which we see external objects. And they are true also in regard to the spiritual eye, the conscience, with which we estimate good and evil. If the eye of the soul, the conscience, is perfectly healthy, the soul will be taught aright.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 3)
But when the conscience is guided by human perceptions, which are not subdued and softened by the grace of Christ, the mind is in a diseased condition. Things are not seen in their true bearings. The imagination is wrought upon, and the eye of the mind sees things in a false, distorted light.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 4)
My brother, you need clear, sympathetic eyesight. Your conscience has been abused, and has become hardened, but if you will follow the right course, renewed sensitiveness will come to it.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 5)
From the light given me by the Lord, I know that your ideas in regard to your wife’s obligations to you are greatly overstrained. Your unnatural course of action in trying to force her to fulfil the obligations that you say her marriage imposes upon her is weaning her affections from you. She cannot accept the suppositions or the conclusions that you urge upon her.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 6)
Right or wrong, every one is guided by his own perceptions, by the use of such eyesight as he has. Your eyesight has been misleading you, and this has wrought harm to your wife. You have tried to force her to act according to the way in which you see things, instead of allowing her to act according to her own judgment. But she is very slow to blame you when she can honestly excuse you.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 7)
Brother Harper, this I must say: if your judgment does not become more correct, more in harmony with the Word of God, it will be best for you and your wife to remain apart until a change takes place in your spiritual eyesight, and you can see things in a Bible light. You are in positive danger. But you will improve if your spiritual eyesight improves.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 8)
Your disposition, greatly indulged since your marriage, leads you obstinately to maintain that you are right, and to refuse to examine or accept the conclusions of others. But if you will place yourself in subjection to God’s will, your spiritual eyesight will in time be healed. You will not view things in accordance with spasmodic impulse. The health of the whole being will be improved. In the case of self-induced disease, when a man fancies that he sees what does not exist, there is a parallel persuasion of all the other faculties.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 9)
I have a deep interest in you and an earnest desire that you shall succeed in reaching a higher standard. If your wife ever returns to you, provide her with a home, comfortable and modest. Be liberal with her. Support her in a way that will give her no occasion to feel that she is a beggar. Do not destroy her courage and her love. She has a good mind, and will continue to have, unless by your unadvised movements you destroy it.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 10)
January 24
I begin again this morning to write to you. In the night season I have had some very plain conversation with you. You will need to change your attitude toward your wife’s relatives, if you ever expect to be any help to them spiritually. This the Bible requires.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 11)
Your happiness depends on yourself—on whether you will understand yourself, and improve your ways and manners, and blend with your wife. Whether you and your wife will ever live happily together depends largely on whether you change your overstrained ideas in regard to her obligations to you. It depends also on your attitude toward her mother. There are some things that your wife could not endure any better in the future than she has in the past. If you try to separate her from the duties that the Lord has given her, from the honor He expects her to pay to her mother, you will never succeed. If you will do your duty as a married man, and also as the son of your wife’s mother, the condition of things will be entirely changed. You are not to treat your wife’s relatives as if they were unworthy of your notice. Their defects are no more censurable than your defects. But you and your mother-in-law will never harmonize until both of you change the view that you have of each other.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 12)
Since reading the letter that I sent you last July, I cannot urge your wife to return to you. I entreat you to make a decided change in your disposition and character. Do not act as an extremist at any time or in any place. Let a sense of righteousness lead you to be kind and thoughtful, instead of a thorn in your wife’s side. Never, never leave on her mind the slightest impression that she is in any way inclined to insanity. If she be, it is you who are responsible. Think of the good work that she has done in the Sanitarium here, and then think of how little encouragement she has received from you. At times you have oppressed her cruelly, in a way most painful to her feelings. Your spiritual eyesight is in great need of healing; for it is sadly impaired. Work with all your might for its recovery.
(19LtMs, Lt 45, 1904, 13)
Lt 47, 1904
Harper, Walter “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California July 1903 Portions of this letter are published in AH 378. Mr. Walter Harper My dear Brother,—
The cases of you and of your wife have been presented to me. Your wife is a Christian woman who is conscientiously trying to follow the way of the Lord. This way is not always your way, and therefore she and you do not always agree. You have an idea that the mind of your wife should be centered upon you and that she should obey your dictates. Your conduct toward her is more like that of a harsh schoolmaster toward his pupils than that of a husband toward his wife.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 1)
My brother, if this is your idea of what married life should be, you need to be converted. Your wife is not happy. She is fully as capable of understanding her duty as you are of understanding your duty. You make her very unhappy by trying to bring her to your ideas and plans. She has a right to expect you to allow her a certain sum to use as her own.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 2)
Your wife is right in thinking that she owes her mother and her grandfather a duty. You have married into the family, and you should act the part of a son toward your wife’s mother. It is far more important that with kindness and courtesy you fulfil the duties which you owe to those connected with you than that you acquire means.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 3)
When your wife married you, she thought that there would be harmony between you and her mother, and she thought also that you would help her a little in caring for her mother. This she had a right to expect. When you took your wife from her mother, you should have felt the responsibility resting on you of trying to make up to the family, in some degree, for their loss. And you should have felt it a great blessing to be acknowledged as a son and brother.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 4)
I want you to look at this matter as if viewing the whole presentation in a mirror. And I want you to give the right measurement to all things. Were your mother alive, would you be pleased to have your wife treat her as you have treated your wife’s mother? You have seemed to think that in marrying your wife, you did her marked honor and that, to please you, she should cut loose from every tie of nature.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 5)
I know of no other woman who would have submitted as passively as your wife has to the restrictions you have made. You act as if you thought that your wife, because she has married you, must crucify all natural affections. She never thought that matters would reach the climax that they have. She has excellent capabilities and a loving, generous nature; and when her husband makes terms that would keep her away from her mother, how can she consent to obey him.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 6)
I write you this because you are confirming people in the belief that you wish to separate your wife entirely from her relatives. You have certainly acted very strangely. The way in which you treat your wife and her mother is a great humiliation to her and is sapping her courage. She will soon see that one or the other must be given up.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 7)
You are not, my brother, well balanced in character. Had you not made self the center, had you shown your wife that you appreciated her, both you and she would have been much happier. You need to change on many points and come into line. While you have been working so hard to make others follow your ideas, you have been destroying your wife’s love for you. Your determination to keep her away from her mother has forced her to decide that her mother, thrown on her own resources, and with no relatives near who could help, must not be left without her daughter’s presence. That mother may be and is defective in some respects. So are you, only more decidedly so. The Lord has not removed His love from your mother-in-law because she is not faultless.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 8)
God wants you to see how utterly alone your wife has been left, to brood over her troubles, and to long to help her mother, to act toward her a daughter’s part. I wonder greatly, as I view the representation, how your wife has endured the humiliation so long. She is your wife, and yet she has had no place that she could call home. That every married woman should have. But instead of giving your wife a home, you have taken her into other families, and have laid out your money in buying presents for those with whom you were staying. Your wife has been keenly humiliated by this.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 9)
In the purchase of gifts for your wife and others, you have shown a lack of judgment. In all such matters, it would be well for you to counsel with your wife. She would be wise in the outlay of means where you would be foolish.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 10)
You should allow your wife a certain sum weekly and should let her do what she pleases with this money. You have not given her opportunity to exercise her tact or her taste, because you have not a proper realization of the position that a wife should occupy. Your wife has an excellent and a well-balanced mind.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 11)
Had you in the past followed the proper course, the fibers of your wife’s spiritual nature would have been strengthened. There would have been developed in her a nobility of character that would have removed some very objectionable features in your character. You would have seen that your religious experience is much less well balanced than hers, and that you need a purified experience, else no woman could consent to live with you.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 12)
I tell you the truth. You do not know how disagreeable you have made things for your wife. I talk to you as I would talk to my own son were he in your place. Will you not try to be wiser? What do you suppose your wife married you for?—To be trained by you, and dictated to, and compelled to obey your wishes? When you were persuading her to unite with you in marriage, you showed a spirit very different from the arbitrary spirit that now so severely taxes her integrity and her strength of principle.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 13)
If you refuse to make a decided and entire change, and drive your wife into an unbalanced condition of mind, it will be at the loss of her soul. You need purification of heart. You need a deeper insight into your own life. Consider how you would like to live always with some one the exact counterpart of yourself.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 14)
As things now stand, I cannot urge your wife to change. It is Walter Harper who needs to change. I want you to see how disagreeable some of your traits of character are. I want you to bring your words, your manners, your habits, into conformity to the will of Christ. Go to work and discipline yourself. Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God, and He will take away your disagreeable traits of character, and will give you supreme love for Him and a pure, unselfish love for your fellow beings. With this experience, you could not take the position that you have taken in regard to your wife’s mother, and you would not dare to talk to your wife as you have talked.
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 15)
May God help you to be pure, noble, and straightforward, firm for the right, but not stubborn for the wrong. Indignity and abuse were heaped upon Christ, but His prayer was, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” [Luke 23:34.]
(19LtMs, Lt 47, 1904, 16)
Lt 49, 1904
Harper, Sister [F.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 24, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2MCP 501-502. Dear Sister Harper,—
I have felt somewhat anxious in regard to you. What are your plans? Will you tell me what you intend to do? Six months ago I wrote to your husband in regard to you. Things were opened to me that showed me that you were not altogether happy in your married life.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 1)
Walter is quite set to have his own way and to carry out his own plans. But his ways are not always the ways of wisdom. I told him that it would be better for him not to write to you urging your return; for this would only worry you. I cannot uphold him in urging you not to stay with your mother and help her. She is your mother, and there are duties that you owe her. I cannot ask you to disregard her need of your help.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 2)
Seek counsel from God, and then follow His will. Your husband should not be so determined that you ought to be separated from your mother. He will see this in a different light, because the Lord has presented the matter to him through His servant.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 3)
Your husband has made a mistake in failing to provide you with a home. Rented rooms would have been better than nothing. I do not think he realized how keenly you have felt your position and your separation from your mother and other relatives.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 4)
Walter has done much good by his canvassing, but he has not gained the experience that he ought to have gained. He has given himself up almost wholly to the work of selling books. He has not entered into evangelistic work as thoroughly as he might, considering the class of people for whom he worked. Still, he has sold many books, and we cannot estimate the good that these books may do. I have regarded it as his work to sell books in the highways and the byways, and in this work he has been very successful.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 5)
But he should have remembered that when he married you, he brought into his life an interest that must come first. A man should not take a woman away from all her former home associations and then leave her without a home.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 6)
Walter should give you a portion of his earnings, that you may have something for clothing, for gifts to the work of God, and something also with which to help your mother. He and you should unite in helping her. He took you away from your home; and financial aid, at such times as it is needed, is the least return that he could make your mother.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 7)
I know that you have not spoken a word to me in regard to this matter. I have not asked your husband for any particulars, and as you have not given me any, I am in the dark. But I know that you must have needed means to help in the care of your grandfather.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 8)
You have never spoken one word of complaint to me in regard to your husband. But I know that he and your mother can never harmonize until there is a decided change in both of them.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 9)
Now, my dear sister, I do not ask you to leave your mother. Your place is with her until there is a decided change in the minds of all concerned. For the last few years your mother’s experience has been a very trying one, and it would be very hard for her to give up her daughter. Watch and pray, and trust the living God. You have one Master, even Christ; and you are not breaking the laws of the marriage relation by giving your widowed mother the help that she needs.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 10)
I think that it would be well if matters could be so arranged that you could live near your mother, and yet be with your husband when he can be at home, and then with your mother when he is away. But you can study this out with Walter. You need to get together, and seek the Lord, and then heed the light that He sends.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 11)
When Walter was here last, he placed twenty-five dollars in my hand to be used as I thought best. He made some remark, which I did not hear, about five dollars of it being a sin offering. I have thought since of this remark, and I think that he meant me to send this money to you. We shall get a draught today for the amount and send it to you with this letter. Please accept the money as part of your right as Walter’s wife.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 12)
The Secret of Unity
The cause of division and discord in families and in the church is separation from Christ. To come near to Christ is to come near to one another. The secret of true unity in the church and in the family is not diplomacy, not management, not a superhuman effort to overcome difficulties—though there will be much of this to do—but union with Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 13)
Picture a large circle, from the edge of which are many lines all running to the center. The nearer these lines approach the center, the nearer they are to one another.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 14)
Thus it is in the Christian life. The closer we come to Christ, the nearer we shall be to one another. God is glorified as His people unite in harmonious action.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 15)
In the wonderful prayer that Christ offered for His disciples just before His crucifixion, He said, “I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest save 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 might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:15-19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 16)
“Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.” [Verse 17.] “Sanctify their understanding. Make them holy through obedience to Thy Word. Strengthen their faith. Fill their hearts with an earnest purpose to do Thy will. Mold and fashion them in harmony with Thy will. Make them complete in Thee.”
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 17)
The truth of God, with its refining, purifying influence, must do its work on the hearts of human beings before they can be accepted by God. Christ cannot present us to God as complete in Him until we have been conformed to His will.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 18)
Let us strive to answer the Saviour’s prayer, that we may be one, as Christ and the Father are one. Those who are thus joined to the Lord are stamped with the same superscription, influenced by the same power, knit together in the bonds of Christian love.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 19)
“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.” [Verses 20, 21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 20)
I do not pray for those only who are now My disciples—the eleven and the seventy—but for all who shall afterward believe on My name. All are embraced in the prayer for oneness. All are given opportunity to show the world that God loved His earthly children as He loves His only begotten Son.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 21)
The members of Christ’s body are to unite in harmonious action, part acting in harmony with part. The glory of God is reflected from those who labor is love and unity, working in Christian fellowship.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 22)
“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 know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [Verses 22, 23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 23)
These words seem almost too much for us to grasp. But they are true. God does indeed love human beings as He loves His Son.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 24)
Workers for God are to set a Christlike example in spirit, in word, in deed, showing that they are sanctified through the truth. Thus they bear testimony to the world that God sent His Son to save sinners, to purify and ennoble sinful human beings.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 25)
May the eyes of God’s people be opened, that they may see the importance that the Lord places on the oneness of His people. May their hearts be so filled with the desire to answer Christ’s prayer that they will allow nothing to keep them from fulfilling God’s requirements.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 26)
“The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 27)
“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? Nevertheless, we, according to His promise, look for a new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for these things, be diligent that ye may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” [2 Peter 3:10-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 49, 1904, 28)
Lt 51, 1904
Haskell, S. N. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California November 26, 1903 This letter is published in entirety in BCL 101-102. Dear Brother Haskell,—
I have recently received two letters from Dr. Kellogg. He strongly urges me to come to Battle Creek, offering to pay all the expenses of the journey. He thinks that I will be favorably impressed if I can see for myself the conditions existing in Battle Creek.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 1)
But I do see matters for myself. Night after night scenes are presented before me that reveal a strange condition of things. While Dr. Kellogg has made some admissions, he has not yet gone to the root of the evils for which he has been responsible.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 2)
At the General Conference held in Oakland, Dr. Kellogg gave an exhibition of himself that revealed the spirit that controlled him. Long before that meeting he was presented to me as a man who understood not the spirit that controlled him. The enemy of souls had cast upon him a spell of deception.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 3)
Some of the recent testimonies I have written and have given to Elder A. T. Jones, asking him to read them to the Doctor; for I was instructed that if they were placed in the hands of Dr. Kellogg, he might be led to put a wrong construction upon some of the words. This instruction was given to me at the time of the meeting held in Battle Creek a few weeks before the Review and Herald office was burned.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 4)
At the time of the General Conference in Oakland, I was forbidden by the Lord to have any conversation with Dr. Kellogg. During that meeting a scene was presented to me, representing evil angels conversing with the Doctor, and imbuing him with their spirit, so that at times he would say and do things, the nature of which he could not understand. He seemed powerless to escape from the snare. At other times he would appear to be rational.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 5)
I was instructed to see Dr. Paulson, and talk with him concerning the issue of the Sanitarium bonds. God forbids that His people should be largely drawn upon to pay for the erection of the mammoth Sanitarium that has been put up at Battle Creek. I was also instructed that it would be difficult for some to draw out the money they had invested in bonds, when they would wish to invest it in some needy field. I bore this message at the General Conference, but it does not seem to have had the influence it should have had.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 6)
At the Sanitarium in Battle Creek, the students and helpers have been encouraged by the managers to write to their parents and friends and tell of wonderful things being done in the institution, while matters were being presented to me in a far different light.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 7)
I have used my pen day and night. For months I have seldom been able to sleep after twelve or one o’clock. I have borne a clear, decided testimony all the way through.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 8)
At the time of the meeting held in Washington, I was compelled to bear very straight testimonies to Dr. Paulson and to others. Since then I have received very encouraging letters from Dr. Paulson.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 9)
Dr. Paulson and others have thought that the strange sentiments to be found in the book Living Temple are sustained by my writings. Some expressions, taken independent of their proper connection, have been used to sustain this idea even as many take statements from the Bible from their setting and use them to testify to error. This is a scheme of Satan to deceive. I have written to Elder Jones and to Elder Tenney that they are in danger of being influenced by the sentiments found in Living Temple.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 10)
The Lord has greatly honored Dr. Kellogg as a physician. If he will now conduct himself aright, the Lord will pardon his mistakes. If he could but realize what burdens he has brought upon me both before and since my return to America, he would change his course of action. I mean to do all in my power to save his soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 51, 1904, 11)
Lt 53, 1904
Prescott, W. W. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 26, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 395-396; 1NL 105-106; 7BC 944; 1MR 383-384; 4MR 368-369; 6MR 26-27. + Dear Brother Prescott,—
I will write you a letter, although I do not owe you one; and it is a long time since I have received one from you. But Brother Daniells has written me quite fully regarding the work in Washington.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 1)
I should be much pleased to see you and talk with you. The message sent you in testimony was that you were not to confine yourself wholly to editorial work; because the Lord has a message for you to bear in our large cities. Washington is a place where, in connection with Elder Daniells, Elder A. T. Jones, and Elder Washburn, you can do valuable service in the ministration of the Word. A strong evangelistic effort must be put forth in the capital of the nation. This was shown me before the Review and Herald office burned.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 2)
I rejoice that you have taken up this evangelistic work in Washington, and that so deep an interest has already been aroused. The accounts given regarding the work there correspond as nearly as possible to the representation given me of what would be. I am sure, for the matter has been presented to me, and this work must not be weakened by the necessary laborers’ being called to other places. The work in the South need not hold Elder Daniells and Elder Washburn long. Elder Butler is there, and there are other men who can come in to help.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 3)
Evangelistic work must be done in Washington, and it must not be broken into by calls from other places. God would have His work in the highways carried forward in straight lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 4)
You are where the Lord would have you. Elder Daniells and yourself must not be loaded down with a great many burdens. Washington has been neglected long enough. A decided work must now be done there. The Lord will give strength and grace. The workers must not allow themselves to be diverted from the work by the many things that will be sure to press for attention. This is the reason that I have felt anxious that every talent of the workers in Washington shall be used in a way that will best advance His work.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 5)
Brother Daniells has mentioned several that he thought might be a help to the work in Washington. But be cautious as to whom you employ in the work there. Everything must be kept up to the Bible standard. Elder Franke could be a help, if he would be worked by the Holy Spirit. But he has his whole family fastened to him in a way that is not for the best interest of the cause of God. The charts that he has prepared have a strong influence on the minds of the people, but his experience is not such as to fit him to take up the work to best advantage in Washington. Elder Franke needs to be converted. Until there is a most decided change in his spirit, until he overcomes his rash manner of speaking, he should not bear heavy burdens.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 6)
I have warned him in regard to this, but he has not heeded the testimonies sent him. His extravagance also cuts him off from helping in an effort such as you are now putting forth in Washington. Our success will depend on carrying forward the work in the simplicity in which Christ carried it forward, without any theatrical display.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 7)
If in the future Elder Franke should be thoroughly converted, he could be a special help; for his charts have a telling influence. And his presentation of subjects by limelight views would also have a favorable influence, if he himself were different. But the way in which he carries forward his work does not give the proper education to the workers connected with him. When we have so many interests at stake, we cannot and must not do our work in the extravagant way in which Elder Franke labors. Should we uphold him in working in the cities as he has worked in the past, his manner of labor would be regarded as a model for our younger ministers to follow. All our preparations for presenting and illustrating the truth must correspond with the solemnity of the message we bear. The Lord never designed the advancement of His work to depend on outward display. Thus the means would quickly be spent, and little would be left with which to open new fields.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 8)
New Orleans is to be worked. At a proper time of the year, a public effort is to be made there. Camp-meetings are to be held in many places, and evangelistic work is to be done after the camp-meeting is over. Thus the sheaves are to be gathered in.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 9)
Every part of the work is to be carried forward solidly. When large, expensive preparations are made in connection with the public effort made in cities, these preparations may at first attract a large number of people. But they cannot be maintained for any length of time. It is found, however, when an effort is made to dispense with them, that they have created an appetite for such things, and that they cannot be dispensed with without a falling off in interest and in the number of the hearers.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 10)
The way in which Christ worked was to preach the Word and to relieve suffering by miraculous works of healing. But I am instructed that we cannot now work in this way; for Satan will exercise his power by working miracles. God’s servants today could not work by means of miracles; because spurious works of healing, claiming to be divine, will be wrought.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 11)
For this reason the Lord has marked out a way in which His people are to carry forward a work of physical healing, combined with the teaching of the Word. Sanitariums are to be established, and with these institutions are to be connected workers who will carry forward genuine medical missionary work. Thus a guarding influence is thrown around those who come to the sanitariums for treatment.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 12)
This is the provision the Lord has made whereby gospel medical missionary work is to be done for many souls. These institutions are to be established out of the cities, and in them educational work is to be intelligently carried forward.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 13)
In some places where sanitarium work is to be established, it will be necessary to begin the work in small quarters and with few facilities. But let not the work be delayed. Let every obstruction to the hindrance of this special line of work be removed.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 14)
In our work we are not to go onto a hilltop to shine. We are not told that we must make a special, wonderful display. The truth must be proclaimed in the highways and the byways, and thus work is to be done by sensible, rational methods. The life of every worker, if he is under the training of the Lord Jesus Christ, will reveal the excellence of His life. The work that Christ did in our world is to be our example, as far as display is concerned. We are to keep as far from the theatrical and the extraordinary as Christ kept in His work. Sensation is not religion, although religion will exert its own pure, sacred, uplifting, sanctifying influence, bringing spiritual life and salvation.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 15)
We are to put on the excellence of Christ, bringing into our work the purity and nobility of His character, ever striving with all perseverance to prepare for the kingdom of heaven. There could be no such thing as one not prepared for heaven entering heaven. There is no such thing as a human being sanctified and fitted for the heavenly kingdom not having an election to that kingdom. God elects those who have been working on the plan of addition. The explanation is given in the first chapter of Second Peter. For every human being, Christ has paid the election price. No one need be lost. All have been redeemed. To those who receive Christ as a personal Saviour will be given power to become the sons and daughters of God. An eternal life insurance policy has been provided for all.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 16)
Whom God elects, Christ redeems. The Saviour has paid the redemption price for every soul. “We are not our own; for we are bought with a price.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] From the Redeemer, who from the foundation of the world has chosen us, we receive the insurance policy that entitles us to eternal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 17)
We are to be saved in God’s appointed way. By repentance from sin and by an intelligent faith in Christ as the Redeemer, we are washed in His blood from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit. Every sinner may become a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 18)
As a Christian submits to the solemn rite of baptism, the three highest powers in the universe—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—place their approval on his act, pledging themselves to exert their power in his behalf as he strives to honor God. He is buried in the likeness of Christ’s death, and is raised in the likeness of His resurrection. He went down into the grave, but He rose from the dead, proclaiming over the rent sepulcher, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.]
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 19)
The three great powers of heaven pledge themselves to furnish to the Christian all the assistance he requires. The Spirit changes the heart of stone to the heart of flesh. And by partaking of the Word of God, eating the flesh and drinking the blood of His Son, Christians obtain an experience that is after the divine similitude. When Christ abides in the heart by faith, the Christian is the temple of God. Christ does not abide in the heart of the sinner, but hearts that are susceptible to the influences of heaven’s instrumentalities, and have been sanctified by obedience to the truth, are representatives of His righteousness.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 20)
The light that shines forth from the lives of such ones testifies to their humility. Self is hidden from view, and Christ is revealed by good works. Heaven recognizes the fulfilment of the promise, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold, even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.] “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.” [1 John 3:2.] Then those whose lives have been hidden with Christ, those who on this earth have fought the good fight of faith, will shine forth with the Redeemer’s glory in the kingdom of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 21)
Their glory in the world to come is the result of their self-denial and sacrifice in this life. Here they obeyed the word, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 22)
“The world knoweth us not because it knew Him not.” [1 John 3:1.] To cherish Christian principles means to develop Christian character. The world hates the characteristics that make men and women Christians. Did genuine religion please them, they would be pleased with those who in sincerity follow the Saviour. But they condemn and persecute those who comply with the invitation, “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.] The worldling does not enjoy looking upon the exemplification of Christian character. The life of the one who is constantly learning of Christ does not please him.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 23)
The true Christian is not ashamed of his faith. He realizes that this would be a denial of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 24)
But I must return to the subject. How shall we carry on evangelistic work in large cities?—As you are carrying it on in Washington, without the parade that some who are deceiving their own souls are inclined to think necessary. The truth that we have to proclaim is the most solemn truth ever entrusted to mortals, and it is to be proclaimed in a way that corresponds to its solemnity and importance. There is to be attached to it no fantastic display. Such display meets the minds of some, but how few are really convicted and converted by a fanciful blending of display with the proclamation of the solemn gospel message for this time. The display counterworks the impression made by the gospel message.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 25)
Were all to connect with the preaching of the Word the display that some deem so essential, how soon there would be a dearth of means. Extravagance would be seen on every side, and all through our ranks an appetite for display would be created and developed.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 26)
God expects us to follow the example of the Majesty of heaven, who clothed His divinity with humanity, that divinity might touch humanity, and humanity might partake of the divine nature. It is only as we are clothed with humility that God can accept us as Christ’s followers.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 27)
We are not to try to gather together strange, peculiar ideas, which are not revealed in the Word of God. If the shepherds of the flock of God are partakers of the divine nature, they will be clothed with genuine humility. They will fill contentedly the place God gives them, shining brightly amidst the moral darkness. Realizing the sacredness of the truth, they will refuse to be drawn out of their place by the attractions of the world or the praise of men. They will stand firmly at their post of duty as brave soldiers.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 28)
Christ does not say to us, “Strive to shine.” He says, “Let your light shine.” [Matthew 5:16.] He in whose heart Christ abides can not help shining. “Let your light shine.” Do not allow your light to be dimmed by selfishness or unrighteous actions. Never gather clouds about you; for this means concealment of your light. Do not dim it by speaking words of harshness or anger. Let the light shine forth brightly to those within and without the home. Gather rays of light from Him who is the light of the world, and shine more and more brightly. Let your lamp be always trimmed and burning.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 29)
Bring the Lord Jesus very near you in your home life; then when you speak the Word of God, this Word will be as a sharp, two-edged sword, cutting through the sinful practices of the sinner. The Lord will make the application of the Word spoken.
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 30)
Keep your lamp trimmed and burning, that the light may shine forth to all who 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.” [Verse 16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 31)
In the Scriptures, Christians are called the salt of the world. True followers of Christ have precious preservative qualities. But those who are Christians only in name are like salt that has lost its savor. How can they exert a preserving influence on a world sunken in corruption? “If the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is henceforth good for nothing but to be cast out, and trodden underfoot of men.” [Verse 13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 53, 1904, 32)
Lt 55, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 29, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MR 384. + Dear Son Willie,—
There are some matters of which I wish to write you, but my brain is too weary to attempt a long letter today. I do not feel very strong, but am feeling better than I felt the morning after you left. I wish to preserve my mental powers, that I may continue to tell of the goodness of God. Last night I did not sleep until two o’clock, and my mind was dwelling upon many things. I will offer a few suggestions.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 1)
I have been shown that it is a mistake to call in a large number of our ministers from the field to devote several weeks in ministerial institutes and councils. In this way, much valuable time has been lost, while talent that should be employed in carrying the truth to new fields is drawn to one center. Older ministers, as well as younger, would obtain a more valuable education in the experience to be found in depending wholly upon God, while laboring as Christ’s agencies.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 2)
The work in Washington should be made second to no other work. I am strongly impressed that we should put to active use in this city the very best talent we can obtain. A good work has been begun by the meetings that have been held there. And at this point, to call away Brethren Daniells, Prescott, Washburn, and others, and to distribute this talent among the various states, leaving men of less ability to carry on the important work in Washington, would seem to me to be poor economy. I cannot see the interest that has been awakened in that city left unprovided for without entering my protest. Furnish strong men for Washington, where a strong work is to be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 3)
I may not fully understand all the circumstances in this case, but I know that to call away ministers from the new field, leaving the work there improperly provided for, is not in harmony with the light I have received. This has been done too often.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 4)
Our ministers should devote much more time than they do to working in new fields, that plants may be established in many places. Let those who have access to God through Jesus Christ enlarge their labors and plant the truth in new fields. Life eternal, the priceless gift of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour, is for those who will go forth in the name of Jesus, teaching all nations whatsoever He has commanded. “Lo, I am with you alway,” is His promise to all who engage in this work. [Matthew 28:20.] Christ calls for the exercise of every talent that can be utilized in reaching the outposts. All should be set at work.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 5)
Could not Herbert Lacey connect with the work in Washington? Cannot work be started in new localities? Meeting after meeting has been held, message after message has been borne in Oakland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Healdsburg, and many such centers. Shall we continue to work in these places, or shall we seek to occupy new territory?
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 6)
Sunday Morning
Brother James returned Friday morning. Brother Jones told him that he would be pleased to have me come to Mountain View this week, while he can be there to show me the places of interest. He leaves for the East at the end of the week and will be gone for some time.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 7)
The summer is still very pleasant. This whole month has been like summer. Last Friday I went out for a long ride in the beautiful sunshine. We allowed the horse to walk both going and coming.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 8)
We received your telegram yesterday morning. I hope that the matter of purchasing a sanitarium for Southern California may be settled in harmony with the Lord’s will. I trust that a good water supply can be obtained on the property at Paradise Valley.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 9)
Yesterday, Dores, with five others, went to conduct services at the Soldiers’ Home. He reports a hearty welcome and an attendance of about seventy. There were two funerals at the Home on Friday and one on Sabbath.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 10)
Elder Taylor spoke at the Sanitarium on Sabbath morning. The chapel was well filled, many of the patients being present, and an excellent discourse was given.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 11)
Please write me as often as you can. Provide yourself with postal cards, and write frequently during your journey.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 12)
I question whether it will be advisable for me to spend a winter in any cold climate. But we will depend upon the Lord for counsel in all things. We must watch and pray and work, and He will give us wisdom. Let us depend upon Him in every emergency.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 13)
Your family are all well and are in good spirits.
(19LtMs, Lt 55, 1904, 14)
Lt 57, 1904
Leading Medical Workers “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California November 12, 1903 This letter is published in entirety in BCL 6-7.
Be On Guard
To Our Leading Medical Workers,—
Instruction has now been given me that I must place in the hands of our ministers and physicians the light given me in past years for Dr. Kellogg and his associates, lest the mistakes of former years be repeated.
(19LtMs, Lt 57, 1904, 1)
Our medical missionary workers know but little of the instruction that for the last twenty years the Lord in mercy has been sending to the pioneers in this work. Testimony after testimony has been given in regard to the danger of centering so much in Battle Creek and the necessity of opening new fields and making plants in many places. Again and again the Lord has declared that it was His will that the company of workers collected in Battle Creek should be broken up into several companies.
(19LtMs, Lt 57, 1904, 2)
If our physicians will stand solidly with their ministering brethren, they will receive help. But they have started on a track which if followed will lead to an effort to tear down the foundation pillars of our faith. Spiritualistic sentiments have been presented in so plausible a manner that many of our medical missionary workers have been fascinated by them. I pray that they will not continue to foster these ideas. Their work is now to put away from them these pleasing fables.
(19LtMs, Lt 57, 1904, 3)
How could our brethren say that in Living Temple there was nothing contrary to the truths of God’s Word? The Lord’s watchmen should have been quick to see that evil was stealing into our ranks. They should have been wide-awake to discern the approach of the enemy and to give the alarm. The rebuke of God will rest upon those who willingly close their eyes that they may not discern the dangerous character of the fables that are stealthily finding place among us. The rebuke of God is upon the ministers and medical missionary workers who have been asleep on the walls of Zion, when as vigilant watchmen they should have warned the people of the Lord against the dangers threatening them.
(19LtMs, Lt 57, 1904, 4)
The time will come, Christ tells us, when many deceivers will go forth, declaring themselves to be Christ. The Saviour says, “Go ye not after them.” [Luke 21:8.] We need not be deceived. Wonderful scenes, with which Satan will be closely connected, will soon take place. God’s Word declares that Satan will work miracles. He will make people sick and then will suddenly remove from them his satanic power. They will then be regarded as healed. These works of apparent healing will bring Seventh-day Adventists to the test. Many who have had great light will fail to walk in the light, because they have not become one with Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 57, 1904, 5)
Let us study the Word of God. Let us make it a part of our lives, bringing its teachings into the daily experience. Thus only can we gain the knowledge that will enable us, in these days of peril, to distinguish the true from the false. Study the fifth and sixth chapters of John. They contain instruction that is indeed the mystery of godliness. “Search the Scriptures,” Christ said; “for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.]
(19LtMs, Lt 57, 1904, 6)
There are some who, though they have received great light, do not feel the need of following Jesus in humility and contrition. God has honored them, but they have not reflected His glory. Jesus says to them, “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.”“I receive not honor from men. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in My Father’s name, and ye receive Me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.”“How can ye believe, which receive honor one of another and seek not the honor that cometh from God only?” [Verses 40-44.]
(19LtMs, Lt 57, 1904, 7)
Lt 59, 1904
Brethren and Sisters in the South “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California January 22, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brethren and Sisters in the South,—
I greatly desire that the work in the South shall advance rapidly.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 1)
I have been instructed to raise my voice in warning to my ministering brethren everywhere regarding the tendency to disunion, and especially to those who are laboring in the South I would say, Be careful not to let division come in among you. Let all sustain your aged President in his position of trust. The Lord has given him a very valuable experience. His love and care has been over him. He has appointed him his work.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 2)
The pioneer workers among us are to be respected and loved. I have been repeatedly instructed that God has a special message and a special work for the aged men who pioneered the cause when there were so many hardships to be borne. A decided change needs to take place in the sentiments of some of our younger ministers who are inclined to disparage the efforts of these pioneer workers. These aged, tried, faithful servants of the cross are to be honored, and their testimony is to be appreciated.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 3)
A Warning Against Speculative Theories
I have counsel to give to every church. Be very careful not to entertain speculative ideas or to teach that which does not properly represent the truth for this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 4)
We are not to speculate regarding what will be in heaven. To pry into these mysteries and present fanciful theories regarding them is to do great harm. The people of God need to be aroused on this point. Suppositions regarding these mysteries are not to be received as truth. No one should dare to pry into subjects that God has not revealed.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 5)
I am instructed to bear a message of warning against the theory that in the new earth children will be born. There is a strain of spiritualism coming in among our people, and it will undermine the faith of those who give place to it, leading them to give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. I have seen the archdeceiver tempting several of our ministers, teachers, and medical workers, presenting to them in the most subtle and charming manner, fanciful theories to wean their affections from those whom they should love and cherish. He shows them charming pictures of women whom they have found congenial, suggesting that in the future life, they will be united to the one who is so congenial.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 6)
The enemy of souls has gained much when he can lead the imagination of Jehovah’s watchmen to dwell upon the possibilities of association, in the world to come, with women whom they love, and of them raising up families. We need no such pleasing picture. All such views originate in the mind of the tempter.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 7)
We have the plain assurance of Christ that in the world to come, the redeemed “neither marry, nor are given in marriage.” [Matthew 22:30.] To those who hold such views I bear the message: You need to be taught the first principles of the truth. You need to stand where you know that you are not departing from the faith and giving heed to seducing spirits. Break the spell that is upon you, and become teachable. Leave every false issue alone. We cannot do our seed sowing too carefully; for we are sowing for eternity.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 8)
We have no need for fanciful theories. What we need to understand is the plain, simple truth that Christ taught—the truth that concerns our eternal welfare. He knew what subjects to speak upon and what subjects to be silent upon. We are not to seek for fanciful theories to present, to satisfy the unsanctified desire for something new. The Word of God contains truth that will make us wise unto salvation. “Sanctify them through Thy truth,” Christ prayed; “Thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] The Word of God, presented in love, and in love received and obeyed, is able to save the soul of the teacher and the souls of those who are instructed by his ministry.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 9)
The sixth chapter of John contains truths that we need to understand. We are to receive and assimilate the words of Christ. “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.” [Verse 63.]
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 10)
We are in great danger of becoming careless and walking and working away from Christ and the truth that He presented. I beg my ministering brethren to take heed how they hear. We must have the faith that is acceptable to God. Christ is the source of all power, as well as of the grace so essential to sanctification—the grace that men must have before they can conduct themselves as Christian gentlemen. Those who follow Christ’s example will grow in grace and in a knowledge of the truth. They will understand God’s will because they do His will and obey His Word.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 11)
A Weighty Responsibility
A weighty responsibility rests upon those who teach the Word of God. They are set as guides to the people. They should realize the responsibility and the difficulties of their work and should spend much time with God in prayer, that they may speak right words, true words, words that will produce the peaceable fruits of righteousness. Eternal consequences depend upon the use that is made of the talent of speech.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 12)
The teacher of truth is to walk humbly with God, guarding strictly against self-sufficiency. He who does this will have the Lord Jesus as his helper and will be blessed in his work. But he who strives to be first will be left to become the least of all in God’s sight.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 13)
Knowledge and wisdom, discretion and meekness, and an earnest desire to study the Scriptures, to feast upon the bread of life—these the teacher of truth should possess. He is to treat his fellow men with kindness, courtesy, and respect. The obedience that is the result of love for God and faith in Christ leads men to respect those who are trying to honor God by keeping His commandments. The religion that does not soften and subdue the heart and govern the tongue, making men beneficent, compassionate, and humble cannot save the soul. Genuine Christlike love is the best guide for all who would teach others to obey God.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 14)
“Take My yoke upon you,” Christ says, “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.] Will you follow the prescription? If you will, you will find the rest that Christ alone can give.
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 15)
May the Lord help us to come into close relationship with Himself. To each one I would say: Look to God for yourself. Be true to God and to yourself, that you may reveal the precious Saviour and thus help your fellow men. Be peaceable and unselfish. None of us need expect acceptance with God unless we walk as Christ walked, doing all in our power to promote peace and harmony. “Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God.” [Matthew 5:9.] “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see God.” [Hebrews 12:14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 59, 1904, 16)
Lt 61, 1904
Brethren Bearing Responsibilities “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 1, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 40; MM 33. + To my brethren bearing responsibilities,—
When God entrusts men with responsibilities, He expects them to obey His law. They are to deal justly, realizing that the Lord beholds all their dealings with their fellow men, and that He will punish every unjust, oppressive action. God gives men opportunities to become one with Christ and one with Him. Those who walk in the fear of God, meditating upon His character, will daily become more and more like Christ. Those who choose not to know God will be ostentatious and boastful.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 1)
There are many who put on what they think to be great dignity. But in God’s sight they are fools. They have not looked into the divine mirror, and they do not know how ridiculous is their pretension in the sight of a holy God. He who looks beneath the surface despises their self-sufficiency. They may hold positions of trust in the church or in the world, but so long as they continue to dishonor their Creator, making themselves the object of worship, they are an offense to Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 2)
God does not take pleasure in punishing those who walk contrary to Him, giving a false representation of His character. But unless they repent, the time will come when they must reap the sure reward of their course of action.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 3)
God says, “Say to My people, It is not for want of opportunities and privileges, not because there is no means of knowing My will, that sinners perish. They perish because of their unwillingness to come out from the world, and be separate from selfish practices, dealing with justice and mercy.” Every soul will be judged by the knowledge that has come to him. Those who turn from the presentation of truth and righteousness, refusing to follow God’s way, and taking their own way, will reap as they have sown. Saith the Lord, “Come out from among them, you that profess to know the truth, yet accept the world’s ways, and mingle the leaven of unrighteousness with your pretentious righteousness. Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean, and I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 4)
Those who profess to be Christians, yet do not the works of a Christian, will have no excuse to offer in the day when every case stands out as it is. The line of demarcation between the obedient and the disobedient, between those who serve God and those who serve Him not, is to be clear and distinct. Those who have entered into a covenant to serve God are to fear lest their lives be such that they will not show the contrast between truth and error. They are not to turn aside to vain visions and human conjectures and flatteries. The lives of the righteous are to put to shame those who refuse to offer their allegiance to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 5)
O that those who have a knowledge of the truth realized the result of failing to reach the Bible standard. God calls upon His people to walk before Him in all humility. He would have them reach higher and still higher in spiritual knowledge. He holds out every inducement to lead men to return to their allegiance to Him. The world would have seen the salvation of God, thousands upon thousands of souls would have been converted, if church members, instead of following the world, had consecrated their talents to the enlargement of Christ’s kingdom in the earth.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 6)
There is a great work to be done. My heart aches as I think of the many who are unready to meet their Lord and of the wasted time that has passed into eternity. “O God, have mercy upon Thy people,” is my prayer. Grown-up men and women are acting like little children. There is not a particle of excuse for the strife and alienation that exist among us.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 7)
No human, kingly power is to bear rule in any line of God’s work. There is but one supreme authority—the authority of God. Those occupying positions of trust are the ones, above all others, who should render perfect obedience to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 8)
God is seeking to lead men to humble themselves. He tries to guide them to place their feet in the steps of the great Medical Missionary. But the Redeemer is often disappointed and crucified afresh by those professing so much.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 9)
The Work of Our Physicians
If ever there were those who need to give their character building careful examination, it is our physicians. There has been on the part of many of them a gradual relaxation of piety, or self-control, or purity, of holiness, of watchfulness. An entire change of mind and spirit is needed before they can claim to be acceptable workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 10)
I know of what I am speaking. Satan is working with all the deceptive power that he possesses. He knows what it is to be a free, glorified being. He knows what happiness he enjoyed in his exalted position in the heavenly courts. He knows, too, that he has lost this happiness forever, and it is his desire to prevent others from enjoying it. He seeks to deceive and allure, if possible, the very elect.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 11)
That man only who daily and hourly lives a Christian life can perform aright the duties of a physician. Let our physicians seek to understand the solemn responsibilities of their profession and to realize how much is involved in dealing with those who are sick in body and mind. Often the life of the patient is in the hands of the physician. One false movement of the instrument in an operation, and the life would be sacrificed. How solemn the thought! How important that the physician shall be ever under the control of the divine Physician.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 12)
Let the one who is trying to prolong life look to Him to direct his every movement. If the physician knows that by his side is One who is life itself, One who can accomplish that which human beings cannot attempt, what confidence this knowledge will inspire! And what a blessing the physician can be in a sickroom if he has learned to trust constantly in Him to whom belong the souls of those to whom he ministers. The Saviour will give him tact and skill and dealing with difficult cases.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 13)
Before performing a critical operation, let the physician ask for the aid of the great Physician, and let him gain courage from the thought that Christ is a very present help in every time of need. Let him work as seeing Him who is invisible, the One who is faithfulness and truth. Let him assure the suffering one that God can bring him safely through the ordeal, that in all times of distress He is a sure refuge for those who cast their care upon Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 14)
When success is the result of the physician’s efforts, let him give God the glory, telling the patient that his life has been saved because he was under the shadow of the heavenly Physician’s protection. This acknowledgment of God’s power will be of great benefit both to the physician and the patient.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 15)
Let physicians realize that they are to watch for souls as they that must give an account; that they are to work for soul-saving as well as for body-saving. We are thankful that there are many physicians who, through faith in God, are qualified to minister to the soul as well as to the body. Many more souls would be won to the truth in our Sanitariums were all our physicians alive to the importance of their work as Christ’s ambassadors. Let physicians make God their counselor. Let them never undertake a case without placing themselves under the direction of the only One who can rightfully claim kingship—He who is the Lord of body and soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, 16)
Lt 63, 1904
Hall, L. M. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 5, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in ChL 18-19; ML 128. Dear Sister Hall,—
I received your letter this morning and was pleased to hear from you. I have been surprised to hear of the severe cold and the heavy snowfall in various places throughout the East. So far, we have had the mildest winter I have ever passed through. The month of January, which I supposed would be the worst month of the winter, has been most pleasant. During the whole month, no snow has fallen, and no rain save one or two soft showers. The mornings have been cool, but as the sun has shone brightly all through the day, I have been able to go out riding every day.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 1)
Last Sunday, Brother and Sister Thorpe, and Sister Ings in the Sanitarium carriage, and Sara and I in our phaeton went over Howell mountain to visit a sawmill worked by some of our brethren. We enjoyed the ride and had a very pleasant visit. Brother Chapman, who for some time worked in the food factory here, is now working in this sawmill. He left the factory on account of his health, and with his wife and baby moved into the mountains. He has built a rough board shanty, consisting of one long room, and in this they are living. At one end is the cooking-stove, and at the other, the bed. The floor is covered with straw matting, and the room is as neat as wax.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 2)
Brother Thorpe took two boards and laid them on the top of some blocks to form a table, which we covered with a cloth and then spread out our lunch. All enjoyed the dinner. We then had a season of prayer, asking the Lord to bless the encampment. There are several of our people working in the mill, and they live in tents near Brother Chapman’s.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 3)
Several times I thought of you, and of May and Addie, and wished that you could be with us. I was delighted with the beauty of the scenery. When you return to California, we shall take you up into these mountains.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 4)
Brother and Sister Chapman have made a wise move. The physical exercise to be found in hard work in the open air is strengthening to brain, bone, and muscle.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 5)
We thought it might be a blessing if some building could be put up at this place for those who wish to live in the high mountain air. The fir, the hemlock, and the pine are full of fragrance.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 6)
In this neighborhood there is a large tract of unoccupied land. Some of our people who are living in the poisoned atmosphere of the cities might profitably secure a few acres of this land. They could support themselves by raising fruit and vegetables and poultry. The Sanitarium would gladly buy eggs and vegetables from them. I wish that some such enterprise as this might be started. A great blessing would come to parents and to children if they would leave the wicked, polluted cities and go into the country.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 7)
In order to enjoy good health, we must ask the Lord to bless us, and then do what we can to place ourselves under conditions the most favorable for health. We should exercise intelligent common sense in our habits of living.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 8)
Of late, my health has been very good. I have been freed from afflictions which for the past twenty-five years have caused me more or less suffering. Of course the burden upon my mind in regard to the condition of our churches has been severe indeed, but the Lord has been very gracious to me. Sometimes, as my heart has been drawn out to God in prayer, I have felt such a nearness to my Saviour that I have praised God aloud. At other times, as I have thought of how greatly my precious Saviour has been dishonored by those professing to love Him, such sorrow and anguish have filled my heart that I have been unable to sleep. How can men think that they love Jesus when they take a course that puts Him to open shame?
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 9)
Night after night these things have been presented to me. I have had to write many things that have pained my heart. But after bearing a plain, straight testimony with my pen, I have felt some relief.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 10)
But I will not dwell on this. Often when offering prayer at family worship, I feel great peace and comfort, and I have the assurance that the Lord loves and sustains me.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 11)
I mean to devote all my energies to doing true gospel medical missionary work. I intend to give my forthcoming book The Ministry of Healing to our sanitarium work, as I gave Object Lessons to our educational work. I am trying to help in securing places where sanitariums can be established, in which the sick can be treated in accordance with the principles of health reform. A demonstration of the value of these principles will do much toward removing prejudice against our evangelistic work. Medical missionary work pioneers the work of the ministry. It prepares the way for the entrance of the gospel with its soul-winning power.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 12)
The great Physician, the originator of the medical missionary work, will bless every one who will go forward humbly, yet trustfully, seeking to plant the standard of truth in every place. I know that God lives and that He works with every one who loves Him and keeps His commandments.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 13)
You have probably heard me speak of the Potts Sanitarium, in Paradise Valley, near San Diego. This property has recently been offered to us at a very low price, and I have been very anxious that we should secure it. The bargain has now been completed, and two hundred dollars have been paid on the place. Sister Gotzian and I have agreed to help in the purchase of this property. For a long time the medical work in Southern California has been at a standstill because of the unbelief of some, but now the time has come for us to move forward.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 14)
San Diego is a health resort, and every year thousands of people visit it. Something must be done to give them an opportunity to hear the truth. We have treatment rooms in the city, but only a few can be reached in this way. What we do must be done quickly; for soon we shall be unable to work as freely as we can at present. I shall continue to work in faith, borrowing money to invest in the Lord’s work, till I am warned by God to stop. By the help of God I mean to invest all that I have in the work of proclaiming the glad tidings of salvation in every part of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 15)
Sanitariums should be established in many places to stand as memorials of the testing truths for these last days. I know that the truth will reach the hearts of many who, but for the agency of these sanitariums, would never be enlightened by the brightness of the gospel message that God has given us to give to the world. Self-sacrificing gospel workers, who have faith in God, should be chosen to take charge of these institutions. They are to take up this work, not with the hope of gaining financial advantages, but because their hearts are filled with the burden of the message for this time. They are to be willing to sacrifice anything in order to save the souls ready to perish.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 16)
“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.] If the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, condescended to come to our world to die for the guilty race, what should be our work, and how should we regard our calling? We are to practice the same self-sacrifice that led our Saviour to give Himself up to a shameful death, in order to make it possible for guilty human beings to be saved. By pen and voice, by the circulation of our literature, by the preaching of the Word, by every other agency that can be employed in consecrated service, the work of warning the world is to be carried forward.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 17)
“We are laborers together with God.” Let us not forget that Word “together.”“Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] If God is working with us, qualifying us to be laborers together with Him, shall we not dismiss our unbelief, and show unwavering faith? Let us no longer act on the negative side, but on the affirmative side.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 18)
The work of God for these last days is to be carried forward in self-denial and sacrifice. “Whosoever will come after Me,” Christ said, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] The Majesty of heaven laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and clothed His divinity with humanity. For our sake He became poor, that through His poverty we might be made rich, and throughout the eternal ages, be partakers of the far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 19)
In all that we do or say, in all our outlay of means, we are to strive with firm purpose of heart to fulfil the purpose of Him who is the Alpha and Omega of medical missionary work. Our hearts are to be softened and subdued, bound up with the heart of Christ, that we may draw souls to Him. We are to sow beside all waters, winning souls to Christ by tender compassion and unselfish interest. When we seek to understand the necessities of those with whom we are brought into contact, and to obtain their confidence, they will open their hearts to us because of the kindness we show them. People are eager to hear the truth from those whose lips are governed by the law of kindness. The divine Word, spoken by such messengers, will be as music in their ears. Thus many of those whose minds are now filled with prejudice against present truth may be won to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 20)
Our work is a great and solemn one, and in it are needed wise, unselfish men, men who understand what it means to give themselves to unselfish efforts to save souls. But there is no need for the service of men who are lukewarm; for such men Christ cannot endure. Men and women are needed whose hearts are touched with human suffering and woe, men and women whose lives give evidence that they are receiving and imparting light and life and grace, men and women who have heard a message from heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 21)
We are not to bind ourselves up with any one whose only motive is to secure opportunities to benefit himself.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 22)
Men and women are needed who eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, receiving and living upon the Word of God. Christ says: “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.” [John 6:56, 57.]
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 23)
It will not be long before we shall see Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. If I can only meet my Saviour, and enjoy His presence, all the trials and sufferings of this life will be as nothingness. Do not forget, Lucinda, that in the Lord we shall find our comfort and our joy.
(19LtMs, Lt 63, 1904, 24)
Lt 64, 1904
Burden, Brother and Sister [J. A.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 9, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Burden,—
[In Australia]
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 1)
I had written some things to you, but I cannot now find them without considerable research. I will write you a few lines. We have had a most beautiful month in January. I am joyfully surprised December was remarkably pleasant, and we thought January would set in [in] full earnest; but we had the most beautiful, gentle showers a portion of two days, and the whole month was very, very fine and much like summer. I wish you could have been here with us. We would have gone with you to the top of Howell Mountain. We made that trip one week ago, and it was beautiful.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 2)
We had secured a sanitarium in San Diego, or rather away from the city five miles. Paradise is the name of the location. We shall have a sanitarium fitted up as soon as we can obtain means. I have written Brother Irwin concerning the particulars, and he will let you know all in regard to it.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 3)
They have had in Baltimore a sample fire [such] as will be from time to time until the last days of this earth’s history. It is stated that the largest marble and stone buildings melted down as snow. Fire engines were useless to stop the fire that was raging. Fireproof these buildings were pronounced to be, but they are described as melting away as snow. This is the most perfect sample of what we are to expect in the future in our large cities. I have given the warnings [of] just such representations [as] here presented before me, [that] the end of the world is come upon us, and we shall see strange things.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 4)
We have no time now, Brother Burden, to lose. We have a work to do for the Master; and if you cannot take hold with your brethren, go somewhere and lay hold. But you must never think you can do this work after your individual ideas, because they are not all perfect, and you will have to learn as all others. We must blend together. “Take My yoke upon you,” says Christ, “for I am meek and lowly of heart and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Rest will only come in perfect submission to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 5)
The Lord bless and strengthen you in wearing the yoke of Christ. There is much Christian faith that is not in exercise. The saving faith must be kept in motion. The believing ones must know how to confide in Jesus Christ, His atoning blood. The Lord would have you in a very different position from what you are today, and your lesson will have been learned only under the yoke of Christ. Thus I am conversing with you in the night seasons and seeking to encourage you. Have a correct view of matters.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 6)
But the call is, Letters must go. I will begin early next mail. I have deep interest for you and pray the Lord bless you and let you see everything in a true light.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 7)
I am sorry I cannot get this copied.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 8)
In much love to Brother and Sister Burden.
(19LtMs, Lt 64, 1904, 9)
Lt 65, 1904
Harper, Walter “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 6, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in AH 378. Mr. Walter Harper My dear brother,—
The tithe money you placed in my hands was sent to Elder G. I. Butler to be used in the support of the colored ministers in the South.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 1)
As soon as I could, I sent you the letter I promised you. For some time, I was unable to write anything or to look over what I had written. My brain was very weary. After I regained my strength, matters were presented to me in a way that made things seem clearer, and I wrote to you and sent you also a letter written several months ago. I hope that ere this you have received these letters.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 2)
I also wrote to your wife, asking her to tell me her plans. I hope to meet your wife again sometime and have an interview with her. She needs counsel.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 3)
My brother, I sincerely hope that your married life in the future will be very different, in some respects, from what it has been in the past. In order for you to make your wife’s life happy, you need an experience very different from the experience that you have gained. “Ye have need of patience.” [Hebrews 10:36.] You must treat your wife in an entirely different manner, if you expect her to be willing to unite her life with yours. You need to change your attitude, and you need to realize that whether or not your wife shall consent to live with you depends wholly on you yourself.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 4)
You must change your attitude toward your wife. You are not to think that you are at liberty to manage her according to your impulses.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 5)
You must make your course of action less objectionable to her. At times your words are so arbitrary, so masterful, that they disgust her. Such words cannot strengthen love. Your habit of dictating to your wife has become so annoying to her that unless you change, she will not consent to link her life once more with yours. Your tendency to rebuke her, your perversity, if continued, will extinguish every spark of love she has for you.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 6)
You need to understand how to treat a wife. You are not to treat your wife as a child that does not know its own mind. You are not to suppose that you can control her. You need to be taught line upon line, precept upon precept, the right way of dealing with others.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 7)
In the married life of every man and woman there will be provocations that demand patience and self-control. There will be faults on both sides.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 8)
Many temptations come to a man to exercise authority. It is so easy, so natural, to take a harsh, dictatorial attitude entirely uncalled for. But, my brother, your wife will never submit to be treated as if your judgment were supreme. Many a man brings into his married life a power of dictation, a masterly authority, that alienates his wife’s affections from him.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 9)
If you will take yourself in hand and bring yourself under control, I see no reason why you and your wife should not reunite your interests. But if you follow a course that makes you obnoxious to her, constantly censuring and finding fault, you will sever the last thread of the cord of love that binds her to you. You must let patience do its perfect work in your heart. Your wife is human, and she is not faultless. She is not always wise. But a noble, generous, Christlike husband could do almost anything with a character such as hers.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 10)
You must help each other. Do not look upon it as a virtue to hold fast the purse strings, refusing to give your wife money. Write to her. She says that she has written you letters that you have not answered. Please think candidly over what I have written, and write kindly to your wife.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 11)
I shall not write again to you till I hear from you.
(19LtMs, Lt 65, 1904, 12)
Lt 67, 1904
White, Mabel “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 6, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 133. My beloved granddaughter Mabel,—
I should be pleased to have you express yourself freely to me, and if I can write you anything that will be a help to you, I shall be so glad.
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 1)
I can write you only a short letter. I have written very little since your father left. I have been so brain-weary that at times I staggered as I walked. For a while I slept only a little each night. I am now improving, though somewhat slowly. I cannot do much yet.
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 2)
Please write me a few lines and tell me how you are getting on with your studies. Tell me anything that it would relieve your mind to write. I most earnestly desire that you shall have a constantly increasing experience in the things of God. Christ is your Helper. He loves you, and He will bless you if you will make Him your trust. He gave His life for you. You belong to Him, body, soul, and spirit. “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 3)
Be of good courage in the Lord. The power of heavenly agencies is promised to those who try to be what the Lord expects them to be. Temptations will come. Go to the Lord for strength to resist them. Seek Him in humility. Learn to take everything to Him in prayer. Believe that He helps you. Express your gratitude by words of thanksgiving. Do not look on the dark side, but believe God’s promises, and walk by faith. Every day you are to be an overcomer.
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 4)
My dear child, keep your mind stayed upon your Saviour, whose property you are. Tell Him all about your trials, and arm yourself with His promises. Commit His words to memory. Let these words be your motto: “This one thing I do, forgetting those things that are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 3:13, 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 5)
Let everyone see in you an example of consistency. Cherish unwavering faith and trust in Christ as your teacher, and be willing to be taught.
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 6)
It is now bedtime, and I must close this letter.
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 7)
In love,
(19LtMs, Lt 67, 1904, 8)
Grandmother.
Lt 69, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 8, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 451. + Dear children Edson and Emma,—
I am looking for a letter from you. I shall be glad to receive encouraging intelligence; for the instruction given me is that the cloud of darkness is lifting. But the progress of the cause of God depends on whether those who profess to be children of God walk and work with an eye single to His glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 1)
God has instructed me to say to His people, ministers and lay members: “Take your stand on higher ground. Move steadily onward and upward, in the path that Jesus trod. Do not trust in your own opinions. Sanctification through the truth is your only safety.”
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 2)
The Lord God of Israel would have His people stand in His strength, and in His might, and in His grace, receiving to impart. He will uphold and sustain those who serve Him with mind and heart and strength. We must now understand what it means to put on Christ; what it means to have an experimental knowledge of the grace of Christ and a continually increasing faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 3)
Making Known the Wisdom of God
Speaking of the mystery “which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God,” Paul says, “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; ... to the intent that now unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places might be made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Ephesians 3:8-10.] Not only to those living in this world, but to the principalities and powers in heavenly places is the church on this earth to reveal the glory of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 4)
A Royal Name
God chose from among the Gentiles a people for Himself and gave to them the name of Christian. This is a royal name given to those who join themselves to Christ. It is of this name that James is speaking when he says, “Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? Do they not blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?” [James 2:6, 7.] And Peter says, “if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this behalf.”“Rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings, that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you; on their part He is evil spoken of; but on your part He is glorified.” [1 Peter 4:16, 13, 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 5)
O that God’s people would take Him at His word, and lay hold of the wonderful treasure of knowledge opened to them. O that they could realize the simplicity of the faith and love that mean so much to them.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 6)
Words of Instruction
“The elders which are among you,” Peter continues, “I exhort, who also am an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory which shall be revealed.” [1 Peter 5:1.] He who is chosen to fill the office of elder is not, because of this, to become self-exalted. Let him remember that the office does not make the man, but that before angels and before men he is to honor his office.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 7)
“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” [Verses 2, 3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 8)
The teachers of the Word of God are first to learn of Christ, that in spirit and word and act they may represent Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 9)
“And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.” [Verse 4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 10)
“Likewise ye younger, submit yourselves to the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another; for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” [Verses 5, 6.] You will sometimes feel that you are wronged, abused, misjudged, but looking to Jesus, remember the words, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 11)
Our Example and Our Rule
Over and over again the representation is given me that it is for our peace to learn of Christ and to practice His meekness and lowliness. Hiding self in Christ, constantly beholding Him, we shall become like Him. By a meek and quiet spirit, by Christlike words and deeds, we are to draw others to Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 12)
We have before us the highest, holiest example—the example of Christ. In thought, word, and deed Jesus was sinless. Perfection marked all that He did. He points us to the path that He trod, saying, “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 13)
We have a perfect rule—the Word of the living God. This Word He has given us as our guide and counselor. The psalmist says, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” [Psalm 119:11.] And in Timothy we read, “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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 14)
Christians, those who are to represent God in the world, are not to seek for doctrines that are new and strange. They are not to pry into the mysteries of the future life. Their part is to make their life in this world such as God can approve. They are to practice the lessons God has given.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 15)
Different Instrumentalities and Different Gifts
God has not given to any one man all the knowledge and wisdom. He entrusts to His servants the gifts they need for the accomplishment of the work He has placed in their hands.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 16)
When God gave Moses instruction regarding the building of the tabernacle, He said:
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 17)
“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.... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.” [Exodus 31:2, 3, 6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 18)
A Revelation of God’s Glory
I have heard many praying for the Lord to reveal Himself to them. Such ones do not understand what they ask. After the law had been given from Sinai, God called Moses into the mount to give him additional precepts; for the minds of the people, blinded and debased by slavery, were not able to comprehend the law as it had been given. When these precepts had been given, God said to Moses, “Come up unto the Lord, thou, and Aaron, and Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, and worship ye afar off.” [Exodus 24:1.] God could not reveal Himself fully to them. Moses only was to come near to the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 19)
Descending from the mountain, “Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord, and all the judgments, and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the Lord hath said will we do.” [Verse 3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 20)
Then followed the ratification of the covenant, and then Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the seventy elders went up into the mount. The seventy elders were to assist Moses in the government of Israel, and God put upon them His Spirit and honored them with a view of His power and greatness. “And they saw the God of Israel; and there was under His feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness.” [Verse 10.] They did not behold the Deity; for He dwells in the light “which no man can approach unto;” but they saw the glory of His presence. [1 Timothy 6:16.] Before this they could not have endured such a scene; but the exhibition of God’s power had awed them to repentance; they had been contemplating His glory, purity, and mercy, until they could approach nearer to Him who was the subject of their meditation.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 21)
“And upon the nobles of Israel He laid not His hand,” to destroy them in their humanity. “Also they saw God, and did eat and drink.” [Exodus 24:11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 22)
Moses was chosen to come into still closer touch with God. The Lord said to him:
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 23)
“Come up to Me into the mount, and be there; and I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them. And Moses rose up, and his minister Joshua; and Moses went up into the mount of God. And he said to the elders, Tarry ye here for us, until we come again unto you; and, behold, Aaron and Hur with you; if any man have any matters to do, let him come unto them.” [Verses 12-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 24)
To Aaron and Hur, assisted by the elders who had been granted a revelation of God’s glory, was given the charge of the people in the absence of Moses. Aaron had long stood side by side with Moses, and Hur was a man who had been entrusted with weighty responsibilities. How carefully these men should have guarded the church in the wilderness while Moses was in the mount with God.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 25)
Apostasy
For forty days Moses was in the mount. While there he received directions for the building of a sanctuary in which the divine presence would be specially manifested. For the third time the observance of the Sabbath was enjoined. “It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever,” God declared, “that ye may know that I am Jehovah that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.... Whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” [Exodus 31:17, 13, 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 26)
The absence of Moses in the mount was a time of waiting and suspense to the people. They waited eagerly for his return. Day after day, week after week passed, and he did not come. Notwithstanding the cloud was still in view, it seemed to many in the camp that their leader had deserted them, or that he had been consumed by the devouring fire.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 27)
“When the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we know not what is become of him.” [Exodus 32:1.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 28)
Such a crisis demanded a man of firmness, decision, and unflinching courage; one who held the honor of God above personal favor, personal safety, or life itself. But the present leader of Israel was not of this character. Aaron feebly remonstrated with the people, but his wavering and timidity at the critical moment only rendered them the more determined. The tumult increased. A blind, unreasoning frenzy seemed to take possession of the multitude. There were some who remained true to their covenant with God; but the greater part of the people joined in the apostasy. A few who ventured to denounce the proposed image-making as idolatry were set upon and roughly treated, and in the confusion and excitement they finally lost their life.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 29)
Aaron feared for his own safety, and instead of nobly standing for the honor of God, he yielded to the demands of the multitude. “Break off the golden earrings,” he said, “which are in the ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me. And the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a molten calf; and they said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt. And when Aaron saw it, he built an altar before it; and Aaron made proclamation, and said, Tomorrow is a feast for the Lord. And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings, and the people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose up to play.” [Verses 2-6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 30)
Only a few days had passed since the Hebrews had made a solemn covenant with God to obey His voice. They had stood trembling with terror before the mount, listening to the words of the Lord, “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.” [Exodus 20:3.] The glory of God still hovered above Sinai in the sight of the congregation; but they turned away and asked for other gods. “They made a calf in Horeb, and worshiped the molten image. Thus they changed their glory into the similitude of an ox.” [Psalm 106:19, 20.] How could greater ingratitude have been shown, or a more daring insult offered, to Him who had revealed Himself to them as a tender Father and an all-powerful King.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 31)
Today as then, men of determination are needed—men who will stand stiffly for the truth at all times and under all circumstances, men who, when they see that others are becoming untrue to principle, will lift their voice in warning against the danger of apostasy.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 32)
Later
I will write further on this matter soon. I have overtaxed my brain power and will have to do but little until I have an increase of physical and mental strength. I am improving, though somewhat slowly.
(19LtMs, Lt 69, 1904, 33)
Lt 71, 1904
Irwin, Brother and Sister [G. A.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 6, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Irwin,—
I am sorry that you were disappointed in not hearing from me. For weeks I have been able to do very little writing because of brain weariness. Then, too, in writing to so distant a field as Australia, I have to be very careful; for I find that the disposition to criticize words and statements is not dead. I must not write unless I know that what I write will not be misinterpreted, made to prove an injury rather than a blessing. I am unable to write as I might if some who receive my communications would not turn them to disadvantage.
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 1)
I have to save my strength to meet the perplexities that I must meet from day to day. Many important meetings are held at different places in this country, and those carrying on these meetings beg me to furnish them something to be read to the people assembled.
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 2)
Lately for some nights I have not been able to close my eyes in sleep until one o’clock. At last I reach the place where I am forced to stop work. My brain will not work. As soon as I begin to write, the blood rushes to my head. There have been days when I have scarcely dared to walk across the floor, for fear that I should fall headlong. I am just recovering from the results of a long period of overtaxation. The reaction from the heavy strain was so severe that I almost feared for my life.
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 3)
Be assured that I shall never lose my interest in the work in Australia. But if you could know the perplexities that come to me from day to day, you would not wonder that I do not always find time to write to you. I am trying constantly to help souls tempted and tried by the enemy. Then there are ministers, men of superior talents, who are going back to the doctrines that we supposed they had left behind and bringing them into their discourses. My soul is filled with an agony of distress for these persons. If we do not watch for souls as they that must give an account, Satan will surely obtain the victory. This we cannot afford to allow him to do.
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 4)
Thus it is. When a letter comes to me from such ones, I go over and over the matter with them in the night season, writing to them, pleading with them; for I know that Satan is playing the game of life for their souls.
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 5)
We must have on the whole armor; for the very ones who ought to stand as strong men reveal that they are as weak as children. Thinking that they must magnify their own opinions, they are becoming weaker and weaker; Satan is obtaining victories over them which place them where they cannot be regarded as reliable in emergencies. They are losing continually, when they might have the strength which God alone can give if they would learn of Christ to be meek and lowly. “My yoke is easy and My burden is light,” He declares. [Matthew 11:30.] When men surrender their wills to His will, they yoke up with Him and gain victory in every conflict. His yoke is easy. But the yoke that men manufacture for themselves are heavy and galling.
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 6)
I have to keep writing and praying. In the night season I plead: “O Lord, have compassion on me. Preserve my eyesight and give me clear spiritual discernment. Give me an unfaltering faith, which will never become confused or confounded.”
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 7)
The Lord is my strength and my consolation. In His strength I will go forward. He lives and reigns, and I will cling to His arm; for it never fails.
(19LtMs, Lt 71, 1904, 8)
Lt 73, 1904
Irwin, Brother and Sister [G. A.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 9, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Irwin,—
You have probably heard me speak of the Potts Sanitarium in Paradise Valley, five miles from San Diego. Some time ago this property, consisting of a large sanitarium building, a five-roomed cottage, and twenty-two acres of land was offered to us for twelve thousand dollars. It is said that the sanitarium building alone cost twenty-five thousand dollars. We did not feel that we could pay twelve thousand for the property. A few months later it was offered to us for eight thousand, and a little later for six thousand, but even then we did not take it. At last it was offered for four thousand, and when the letter was read in which Dr. Whitelock told of this offer, Sister Gotzian and I clasped hands across the table in my writing room in an agreement to purchase the place. I understand that the option price has been paid. Sister Gotzian is now in San Diego and will remain there until the business is settled.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 1)
Ten more acres of land which once belonged to the place, and a small cottage, were offered to us for four hundred dollars, and the offer was accepted.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 2)
This matter has cost me much anxiety. We dared not let the property pass out of our reach. I feared lest the backwardness of our brethren would cause us to lose this property. The building is indeed a fine one and was occupied for only about fifteen months. The Lord instructed me that buildings suitable for sanitarium work would be offered to us on very reasonable terms, and that we must not hesitate to take advantage of these opportunities.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 3)
I have borrowed two thousand dollars from the General Conference Association. With this I shall pay my part in the purchase of the property. When the royalty on my books comes in, I can return the money.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 4)
There are those who will take off our hands the property that we have bought adjoining the sanitarium building. But the building itself, and the land surrounding it, we shall keep, and we shall endeavor to build up sanitarium work there. Sanitarium work in Southern California has been greatly hindered because certain ones have kept their foot on the brake, allowing no advancement to be made. We now propose to make a decided change. I am sure that the thousands and thousands of people who every year come to Los Angeles and San Diego for their health ought to have an opportunity of hearing of the truth for this time. Medical missionary work must be carried forward; for it is the helping hand of the gospel.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 5)
Be of good courage, my dear brother and sister. Walk in the light as Christ is in the light. We are not to talk discouragement, pray discouragement, or act discouragement. And remember that God’s workers are to harmonize with one another. We cannot follow Christ and at the same time follow our own independent judgment. “Press together” is the word given to me for you all. Press together. In unity there is strength; in disunion, weakness. One man’s mind and one man’s judgment is not to be the controlling influence in any place. God has given no such directions. We are ever to cultivate the meekness and lowliness of Christ, learning constantly of Him. Thus we obtain an education of the highest value. Christ says, “Without Me, ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] He desires to blend heart with heart, mind with mind in harmony with the prayer that He offered for us just before His crucifixion.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 6)
Please write to us whenever you can, whether I write or not. We are much disappointed if we do not hear something from you in each mail.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 7)
With love to every member of the Sanitarium family.
(19LtMs, Lt 73, 1904, 8)
Lt 75, 1904
Brunson, J. A. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 8, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in VSS 248. + Elder J. A. Brunson My dear Brother,—
I received your letter and would have answered it before; but for some weeks I have been able to do very little writing. I overtaxed my head and have been so brain-weary that I have written only the letters that I felt compelled to write. I have ridden out as often as the weather would permit; for I think that being in the open air is good for me.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 1)
How I have wished that you could have the advantages that I have had this winter. I think that you would enjoy the climate of this place very much. So far the winter here has been the mildest that I have ever experienced. During the month of January the sun shone every day. No snow fell, and no rain, except two or three slight showers. Some rain fell in December, and during the last week there have been soft, gentle showers, such as do the land so much good.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 2)
I wish that while we are here, you could be released from speaking and rest for a while at the St. Helena Sanitarium. We could often take you out riding. I am sure that you would enjoy the scenery; for it is beautiful. Then, too, I suppose you know of the medicinal properties of evergreen trees—the fir, the pine, and the spruce. How fragrant these trees are.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 3)
I am sure that a rest at the Sanitarium here would be a blessing to you. I should like to suggest that you try spending a winter in St. Helena, or in some place where the climate is mild. We cannot afford to lose one of our ministerial workers. We need every one of them. Exercise the faith that responds to the invitation, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 27:5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 4)
If when the weather becomes warmer, you could live for a while in a tent on Howell Mountain, the mountain behind the Sanitarium, and have an entire rest, under Dr. Evans’ care, I am sure that you would improve in health. You could have the food best suited to your stomach; whereas now, travelling as you do from place to place, you often have to eat whatever is set before you.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 5)
You are the Lord’s child, the son of His care, and He wants you to place yourself where your worn-out organs can recuperate, so that you can do successful work for Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 6)
I want to help and encourage you, and this is why I write thus to you. If you will act the part of an invalid for a year, it will certainly be a blessing to you. You would get great benefit from working in the soil for a certain time each day. I know by experience the value that there is in out-of-door work.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 7)
There is one matter about which I wish to caution you. In addressing a congregation, do not speak for too long a time; for thus you put a heavy strain on the delicate organs brought into action. I have to pledge myself not to speak too long; for I know that if I do, stomach and lungs and kidneys will be overtaxed and suffering will result.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 8)
Another thing: Get from the druggist some pulverized charcoal, and use it freely. Mix it with sweet oil. Thus it can be taken with less difficulty than if mixed with water. I think that you would obtain benefit from the use of charcoal compresses—pulverized charcoal moistened, put into a flannel bag, and placed over the affected part. When my husband was sick, I had recourse to many remedies, and I know the value of charcoal as a healing agency. I have worked for my husband with marked success when his life was in grave peril. I did not want a physician for him; for I knew that I had tact and skill, and that with faith in God I could be his physician.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 9)
It is the positive duty of those who are suffering from physical difficulties to do what they can to obtain relief. Your wife is a physician, and she can do much for you. It is those who are most closely related to a sufferer by cords of sympathy who can do the most to help him. You and your wife must place yourselves in right relation to God, where you can work out His purpose for you. Pray in faith for recovery, and then use every means He places within reach in an effort to regain your health.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 10)
The Lord wants you to act sensibly. You need entire rest—rest of mind and body. There are things that worry you, but I ask you and your wife to be determined to co-operate with the greatest Physician that the world has ever known. Lay hold of His strength. Have a deep, earnest, unchanging love for each other, and do all in your power to help each other. You can help each other as no one else can help you. I heard words spoken by the voice of God to both of you. It is the pleasure of the Lord that you make decided efforts to help each other. Give each other your best affections. Strengthen and build up each other in the most holy faith. Let nothing divert you from the work that it is possible for you to do for each other. By consecrating yourselves to God body, soul, and spirit, by placing yourselves on the altar of service, you can be a blessing to each other.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 11)
There is a moral danger threatening your prosperity. God knows the measure of every weight you carry. There must be no idolatry, even in the form of religion. God calls upon you both to draw near to Him. As you obey, He will draw near to you. He desires to be sought after by you, my brother and sister. He wants you to be as true as steel to principle, faithfully keeping His commandments. Take no burdens, place on yourselves no weight, that would hinder you from doing the will of the Lord. You are not your own; you have been bought with a price; and O, what a price.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 12)
“When sinners entice thee, consent thou not,” but as ministers of righteousness, put every talent to use in the Lord’s service. [Proverbs 1:10.] This you must do if you would endure His proving and be accepted by Him as faithful ambassadors. The Lord calls upon you to lay hold of the arm of infinite power. He is ever ready to come to the help of His children and by His gracious, healing power restore them to spiritual and physical health.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 13)
The Lord is looking upon you in love and compassion. He desires you to trust in Him. Let nothing interpose between your souls and God. The Lord will greatly bless you both if you will put your trust in Him. His arm is outstretched to save to the uttermost all who call upon Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 14)
Temptations and trials will come, but do not let this discourage you. Put your trust in God, and do not disappoint your Saviour. His truth will triumph gloriously. Do you not wish to triumph with it?
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 15)
Paul says: “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.”“The Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” [2 Timothy 3:1; 1 Timothy 4:1.] God desires human beings to be so closely united with Him that He can use them to counterwork the evil that Satan is seeking to bring in. He desires to use you, my dear brother and sister, to promote good and counteract evil. He calls upon Sister Brunson to become His gospel medical missionary, His helping hand, working to uplift, to save, not to destroy. He calls upon her to keep her feet firmly planted on the platform of eternal truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 16)
How great is the watchfulness of the Deity! “Thou understandest my thought afar off,” David declares. “There is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O God, Thou knowest it altogether.”“Thou tellest my wanderings; put Thou my tears in Thy bottle; are they not in Thy book?” [Psalm 139:2, 4; 56:8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 17)
The inhabitants of the heavenly universe stand in their appointed places to hear what the Lord shall say to them. They are ministering spirits sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. But not alone through them does God work. He has entrusted to human beings the work of making known His law to those who know it not. He accepts repentant sinners and through them works out His divine will and accomplishes His purposes.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 18)
We are directed to ask God for daily blessings, and we are assured that He delights to impart to us of His goodness, grace, and mercy. We are invited to cast all our care upon Him. He waits for us to come to Him, that He may carry our burdens for us. My brother, my sister, I long to see you both united with Christ as laborers together with God.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 19)
Let us not be found on the enemy’s side of the question. We can not afford to have his companionship. Let us strive in every way to lead souls to lay hold of the hope set before them in the gospel. Do we not desire to make it possible for Christ to say to us: “I know your works, your labor, your patience. I will strengthen your faith, enabling you to bear the trials that will come as you resist the enemy”? Looking to Jesus as our Redeemer, we shall develop patience, and patience will produce a true, well-grounded hope.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 20)
“Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” [Hebrews 10:35-37.] Look up, my brother, and let your faith continually increase. Let this faith guide you along the narrow path that leads through the gates of the city of God into the great beyond, the wide, unbounded future of glory that is for the redeemed. Heed the encouragement in the words, “Be patient, therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and the latter rain. Be ye also patient; establish your hearts; for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” [James 5:7, 8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 21)
Let us be found “rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer.” [Romans 12:12.] The Lord has made every provision that we shall have strong hope. If we are true to our covenant with God, the blessing is certain, as certain as God’s oath can make it. And so great is the blessing that it will be a full and sufficient reward for the self-denial and the self-sacrifice that for Christ’s sake we have shown here below.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 22)
Then, my dear brother and sister, keep your eyes uplifted. “Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you, but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” [1 Peter 4:12, 13.] If we now suffer for Christ and with Christ, in the world to come we shall share in His glory. May God help us to watch and wait and pray, and to help those who need help.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 23)
Dr. Jean Whitney has just called to see me. She thinks that she ought to go to Battle Creek to see her mother who has not been at all well this winter. I tell her that St. Helena is the place for her mother to rest in. It will cost no more for Sister Whitney to come to California than for her daughter to go to Battle Creek, and Sister Whitney can spend the rest of the winter in a mild climate. If you are in Battle Creek when this letter reaches you, encourage Sister Whitney to come to California; for she needs a change.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 24)
I must close now, but I want to tell you that my heart is full of joy and peace, and of praise to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 75, 1904, 25)
Lt 77, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 12, 1904 Previously unpublished. + My dear son Willie,—
This morning I found under my door your letter to May, sent from Washington. She sent it over last night after she had read it. Thank you for keeping us so faithfully informed in regard to the different stages of your journey. I have prayed the Lord to direct your way so that no accident or harm should come to you. I have prayed that God would be with you at every point of your journey, and I have had special assurance that He would bless and preserve you.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 1)
On the morning of the tenth we saw in the sky tokens of rain, and at two o’clock the next night I woke with so much pain in the right arm, shoulders, chest, and heart that I felt somewhat discouraged. The words, “Commit your case to the Lord in faith and trust, and He will be your Physician and Healer,” were distinctly impressed on my mind. I went from my sleeping room to my office, praying all the time for the Lord’s healing power. I committed myself to Him, knowing that He knew just what to do for me. The pain left me. Some slight indications of rheumatic difficulty remained, but I was able to go right on with my work. As we read the morning lesson at family worship, such a sense of gratitude came over me as I thought of the evidence which I had received of the love of my Redeemer and of His pitiful tenderness, that my tears flowed freely. I was kept in peace and happiness all day long.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 2)
What I must have is a personal connection with my Saviour. Important decisions are to be made at every step, and while we must go forward, we must be sure to place our feet in the footprints of Christ. We must say, “Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee, E’en though it be a cross that raiseth me.”
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 3)
Later. I have just come up from breakfast and will add a few lines to your letter. Yesterday I received a long letter from Brother Butler. I was much interested in this letter and shall answer it as soon as I can. There are many subjects that I wish to complete, but Elder Butler’s letter must have a response.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 4)
We have stern responsibilities to meet, and the subjects that concern the advancement of the work of God should be of the greatest interest to every believer. We are to accept no speculative theories. We are to carry out no plans that God can not approve. All that we do should bring to us a stronger sense of the presence of God with us. We are to wear Christ’s yoke and learn of Him His meekness and lowliness. We shall be rewarded by finding the rest that His abiding presence brings. Walking and working in the light of His life, we shall reveal to the world, to the church, and to heavenly intelligences clearer and more intelligent views of the things of God. A recognition of the fact that the Lord God is to us all and in all, first and last and best in everything, will bring refreshing to our minds. The evidence that we are partakers of the divine nature will fill the soul with meekness and humility.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 5)
Thus we are made laborers together with God. We work out our own salvation with a holy boldness, and yet with fear and trembling lest we should spoil the pattern. And God works in us, to will and to do of His good pleasure. O that we could realize the greatness of the responsibility resting on us as those chosen by God to save our own souls by drawing nearer and still nearer to His light, that we may be illuminated by the radiance of His presence. He invites us to follow Him. He will not spurn our efforts, but will encourage every step of advance. If our lives are hidden with Christ in God, we shall work in a way that will accomplish His purpose for us.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 6)
I wish to tell you, my son, to move very carefully in your preparations for moving. I have no certain knowledge that I ought to break up my home here. I have no assurance that the Lord would have me do this. I have never been so favorably situated to do my work. Everything is very convenient for me. To enter upon the confusion of travel and attending meetings means much. And the matter does not rest there. When I stand before the people, I am responsible to God. If I could bear my message and then let the matter rest, the burden would not be so heavy; but I cannot. I must explain and explain, and even then interpretations are made and reports carried that bear no likeness to what I have said. The contention, the self-uplifting of those who do not know themselves is very painful to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 7)
As in Christ’s day, the people hear with unsanctified ears and interpret with unsanctified minds and hearts. They lose the real meaning of the truths presented, and my labor seems to be in vain.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 8)
Why not allow me to remain here quietly with my workers and bring out the instruction that I wish to present? Must I again go through the experience that I went through at the Conference held in Battle Creek in 1901, and again at the Conference recently held in Oakland? During these meetings I carried on my soul burdens the weight of which the Lord only knows. I do indeed dread the thought of another such experience. If I could labor among those who have not had so much light as our people have had, if I could speak before unbelievers, I should labor in faith and hope. But many of those who profess to know the truth are not sanctified through the truth. To them are applicable the words spoken by Christ to those who were satisfied with their own religious understanding and refused to accept the representation held up before them by One who knew their true spiritual condition:
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 9)
“Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you; for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have the light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of the light.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 10)
“These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide Himself from them.”“Though He had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on Him; that the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report, and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias saith again, He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.” [John 12:35-40.] The course that they themselves followed brought darkness upon them. Every refusal to receive the light of life made their hearts harder and more unimpressible.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 11)
If I can be saved from meeting the people as I have done at Battle [Creek] and at other places, I shall be spared the intensity of feeling that comes over me when I stand before those who profess to believe the truth, while war and falsehood are in their hearts. So heavy is the burden that this feeling brings upon me that it seems as if it would wear my life away. Will it pay? Ask the brethren if it will pay. Let me prepare my books in the quiet of my home, removed from those who have blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, lest they should see, and understand, and be converted, and God should heal them.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 12)
With all the powers of mind and heart, I am considering the question of going East for fear that you and I may move injudiciously. I must know the will of God in this matter before I can consent to place myself where my burdens will be heavier, with no equivalent results to balance the matter. Give me this summer to myself. I have much to write, and I want to be left quiet to do this writing.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 13)
You may say, “We have encouraged our people to hope that you would spend some time in the East this year, and if you do not, they will be greatly disappointed.” I know that some would be disappointed, but there are many who would have but little appreciation of the messages that I might bear them. They would not hear to a good purpose.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 14)
I shall go if the Lord requires it. But it seems to me that such a journey costs too much money, too much time, and too much hard, trying work, and that the results would not be equivalent to the effort put forth.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 15)
I must close this letter now, that it may go in the noon mail. I have tried to state the case as it appears to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 77, 1904, 16)
Lt 79, 1904
Whitelock, T. S. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 12, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dr. T. S. Whitelock Dear Brother,—
I have been waiting to hear something further from you and hope to receive a letter by the next mail. It is mentioned that Mrs. Potts is not pleased to have the property sold so cheaply. Please let me know whether steps have now been taken so the property is secured to us. Have arrangements been made to secure the Grainger property? Have you anything to propose in regard to furnishing the building? I would be glad to know what your plans are for paying for the property. If it is necessary to make sure of holding the property, I can hire some money from the bank.
(19LtMs, Lt 79, 1904, 1)
We have received a letter from W. C. White, stating that he reached Washington safely. He is well, but feels the need of a rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 79, 1904, 2)
I am somewhat doubtful in regard to our breaking up and going to Washington. Our work in preparing matter for publication will be hindered by such a move. I am seeking to know the will of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 79, 1904, 3)
Lt 81, 1904
Those Connected with the Potts Sanitarium “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 15, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 320-322. + To those connected with the Potts Sanitarium Enterprise My dear Brethren and Sisters,—
I hope that you will look to God for counsel, and that you will endeavor to carry out the plans that were decided upon before Willie left for the East. Work steadily to the point. Show tact and skill in devising and promptitude in action. You will have to exercise your own judgment; for we may be called away from California. It may be that the Lord will impress me that it is my duty to spend some time in Washington. And I may be directed to remain here with my workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 1)
But whatever we do, you are to move forward carefully and intelligently in building up the sanitarium work in San Diego. Do not fold your hands, thinking that your strength lies in doing nothing. You are to do the Lord’s will. Are not the souls of those whom Christ has redeemed worth saving?
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 2)
God desires His workers to take counsel together. Be subject one to another, but do not hold back in weakness and indecision, failing to do what needs to be done. Do not act an undecided, indefinite part. Make up your minds what needs to be done, and move steadily forward in the doing of it. Do not take one backward step. Show those with whom you come in contact that they are to work out their own salvation with holy boldness, and at the same time with fear and trembling, lest they fail to fulfil God’s purpose for them.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 3)
Be prompt minutemen. Do not delay in carrying out the plans that have been decided upon. I have just read Dr. Whitelock’s last letter again, and I can hardly understand why there should be any hesitation in taking steps to secure the property that I thought we had decided to purchase.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 4)
I understand that the ten acres of land adjoining the sanitarium property, and hitherto used as a chicken ranch, were offered to us for four hundred dollars and that they have been secured.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 5)
You are on the ground, and as business men, you should know what steps to take. I will do my part. If a crisis comes, and you are in need of funds, send to me, and I will borrow some money from the bank and send it to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 6)
Sister Gotzian has pledged herself to share with me the purchase of the property. Let all the business connected with the purchase of the property be conducted with the utmost care. Be sure that the papers are drawn up correctly. Let everything be made secure. If attention is not given to this matter, we shall meet with disappointment.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 7)
In a short time, about four weeks, I think, a meeting of the Pacific Union Conference will be held. This will be an important meeting, and at it I wish to be able to show that something has been done toward establishing sanitarium work in San Diego. If the arrangements for the purchase of the Potts Sanitarium have not been completed, see that this is done without delay. And the Grainger property should also be secured, I think.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 8)
Will you please let me know just how matters stand, that I may understand what I must do to fulfil the pledge that I made with Sister Gotzian. We promised each other to share equally in the financial burden of purchasing this property. I am anxious to help all I can. If you need means to make the purchase of the Granger property secure, please let me know.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 9)
I hope and pray that you will work disinterestedly to secure the sanitarium property and the property adjoining it. Do your best, and success will attend your efforts.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 10)
I may spend some time in Washington, but I do not know definitely in regard to this. It may be that I shall go to San Diego. I shall wait and watch and pray, asking the Lord for guidance.
(19LtMs, Lt 81, 1904, 11)
Lt 83, 1904
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W.; Hare, Dr. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 15, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 9T 12-13; PC 328-330. + Elders Daniells and Prescott and Dr. Hare My dear Brethren,—
The instruction that has been given me in regard to the buildings to be erected in Washington is that it is not the Lord’s will for an imposing display to be made. The buildings are to show, to believers and to those not of our faith, that not one dollar has been invested in needless display. Every part of the buildings is to bear witness that we realize that there is before us a great, unworked missionary field, and that the truth is to be established in many places.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 1)
If the buildings erected correspond to the truth that we are proclaiming, a telling influence will be exerted on minds. Actions speak louder than words. Say frankly, “God has charged us not to invest a large amount of means in one place, and He has charged us also not to invest means in gratifying the desire for display.” The principles that we are to follow in our work are exemplified in the life of Christ. He was the Majesty of heaven, and yet He worked at a carpenter’s bench. And however lowly His task, it was done with the utmost exactitude.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 2)
When I was last in New York, I was in the night season called upon to behold buildings rising story after story toward heaven. These buildings were warranted to be fireproof, and they were erected to glorify the owners. Higher and still higher these buildings rose, and in them the most costly material was used. Those to whom these buildings belonged were not asking themselves, “How can we best glorify God, that we may enjoy Him forever?” God was not in their thoughts.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 3)
I thought: “O that those who are thus investing their means could see that this display does not give them one iota of advantage with God. They are piling up magnificent buildings, but how foolish in the sight of the Ruler of the universe is their planning and devising. They are not studying with all the powers of heart and mind what they may do to glorify God, that they may enjoy Him forever. They have lost sight of this, the first duty of man.”
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 4)
As these lofty buildings went up, the owners rejoiced with ambitious pride that they had money to use in glorifying self and in provoking the envy of their neighbors.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 5)
Much of the money that they thus invested had been obtained through exaction, through grinding the faces of the poor. In the books of heaven an account of every business transaction is kept. There every unjust deal, every fraudulent act is recorded. The time is coming when in their fraud and insolence men will reach a point that the Lord will not permit them to pass, and they will learn that there is a limit to the forbearance of Jehovah.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 6)
The scene that next passed before me was an alarm of fire. Men looked at lofty and supposedly fireproof buildings and said, “They are perfectly safe.” But these buildings were consumed as if made of pitch. The fire engines could do nothing to stay the destruction. The firemen were unable to operate the engines.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 7)
I am instructed that when the Lord’s time comes, should no change have taken place in the hearts of proud, ambitious human beings, men will find that the hand that has been strong to save will be strong to destroy. No earthly power can stay the hand of God. No material can be used in the erection of buildings that will preserve them from destruction when God’s appointed time comes to send retribution on men for their insolence and their disregard of His law.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 8)
The Word of God plainly marks out the course of action that all are to follow. Those who give no heed to this Word, but press on in the path of transgression, paying no attention to the commandments of God, must at last suffering the punishment of their sin. God bears long with those who disregard the laws of His kingdom. He gives them greater and still greater opportunities to repent. Nothing is left undone to lead them to acknowledge that “man’s chief end is to glorify God, and enjoy Him forever.” The Lord’s longsuffering mercy ought to lead them to repentance. But because sin does not meet with immediate retribution, sinners become bold and defiant in transgression. “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” [Ecclesiastes 8:11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 9)
The love that God has shown in sending Christ to this world to die for us is an argument sufficiently strong to lead men to be reconciled to God. Those who, notwithstanding the great price paid for their salvation, continue in sin will reach at last the boundary line of mercy. Then the Lord will show Himself strong to punish. He forbears till He sees that forbearance will be of no avail.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 10)
A few words more in regard to buildings. In reference to the question of building with wood, or brick, or stone, the instruction given me in the past is that brick buildings are not the most healthful, and that wooden buildings, properly put up, are preferable to brick or stone buildings. And while we are under the keeping power of God, a wooden building is as safe from fire as a stone building.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 11)
In planning for the erection of the buildings that you propose to put up, do not follow the counsel of those who would invest means for the sake of display. Do not launch out into expensive investments. In laying plans for the sanitarium building, remember that this is to be a building for the sick and suffering. To those who plead for buildings of brick or stone, say, “We believe that the Lord is soon to come, and we cannot consent to launch out into the erection of expensive buildings.” For years the erection of such buildings has borne the rebuke of God, but His warnings were not heeded, and at last He permitted His judgments to fall upon the Sanitarium and the publishing house in Battle Creek.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 12)
The buildings that you erect must be solid and well constructed. No haphazard work is to be done. The buildings are to be thoroughly presentable, but no extravagance is to be seen. We are not to make it possible for worldlings to say that we do not believe what we preach—that the end of all things is at hand.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 13)
The buildings should be put up at as little cost as possible. No money is to be spent on them merely for show. We are living in a time of fearful depravity. The whole world has thrown off the restraints of religion. Worldlings and church members are making void the law of God. We are to bend every energy to the proclamation of the message of warning.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 14)
There are many other places where memorials for God are to be established, many other places in which sanitarium work is to be started. In many countries gospel medical missionary work is to be done. God’s agencies are to act their appointed part. In all that is done, in all the institutions that are established, the example of economy that Christ has set in His life is to be followed.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 15)
On no account is the course followed in the erection of the Boulder Sanitarium to be followed in the erection of the Washington Sanitarium. If this course were followed, places in which sanitariums should be established would be left destitute.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 16)
My brethren, in your work at the capital of the nation, let the principles of unselfishness revealed in Christ’s life be carried out. Remember that in many other places, as well as in Washington, gospel medical missionary work is needed to open doors for the entrance of the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 83, 1904, 17)
Lt 85, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 16, 1904 Previously unpublished. + My dear Son Willie,—
I was pleased to receive your letter of February 9, which came yesterday, also the copy of your letter to Elder Knox, dated February 10.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 1)
I shall not worry over the purchase of the sanitarium property in San Diego. I have felt so grieved by the way in which some of the brethren in Southern California have held back in regard to this matter, that I am willing, in connection with you, to take all the responsibility in regard to the Potts Sanitarium. Elder Healey and Elder Santee need have no part nor lot in the matter. I know that we can manage the business without them. I have written to Dr. Whitelock to move steadily forward in carrying out the plans decided upon before you left, and my mind is now at rest; for I have done all that I possibly can.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 2)
I am determined to carry the work forward in accordance with the will of the Lord. I believe that He would have the matter stand where neither Elder Healey nor Elder Santee will have the control or the management of the sanitarium. Those who are merely figuring for themselves may do it outside of the work that we are trying to carry forward upon a higher plane than they are prepared to stand on.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 3)
I think that Sister Gotzian and I will harmonize in regard to the business matters. You need not worry. You may leave the burden of the work with me. In your absence I will take it and will do the best I can.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 4)
I cannot finish your letter today, or the one that I have written to Elders Daniells and Prescott in regard to the work in Washington, but I will send what I have.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 5)
Last night I sent you a letter in which I said something about the work in Washington. I had hoped, Willie, that I should not again be brought in connection with Sister Rousseau and Sister Tuxford, for whom I have had many testimonies. I hope that these sisters, who have never studied economy, but have spent their means largely for themselves, will not be allowed to influence the plans laid for the buildings to be put up. They are not prepared to work on economical lines. They have not learned to produce as well as to consume. They are both in need of reconversion, and the thought of their being connected with the work in Washington brings a shivering dread over me.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 6)
I shall take special pains to give all the instruction that we are to be producers as well as consumers. We are not to encourage a large expenditure of money for dress. Sister Tuxford and Sister Rousseau, and especially the latter, are inclined to spend much for dress. Far better might they spend less in this way, and use the money thus saved in helping those who need help. We cannot afford to speak as the world speaks or to dress as the world dresses. We cannot afford to encourage extravagance in the furnishing of our institutions. It is not the outward apparel that determines the value of God’s children. He asks whether they have the inward adorning, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit; and He says plainly that women are to clothe themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 7)
I am afraid of Sister Rousseau’s influence. I am afraid of her words or her display. I fear that she will lead others into wrong paths.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 8)
We need so much to study the words of the divine Teacher. We need so much to walk humbly with God. I must say of these sisters that unless they undergo a most thorough transformation of character, they will fall short of the standard that Christ has set before them and will lead others into false paths, causing them to make shipwreck of the faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 9)
Sister Rousseau and Sister Tuxford have been long in the truth, and they ought to have learned the lessons of self-denial, which is so essential for all. They ought to have heeded the warnings and directions of God’s Word and obtained the garment which all who are saved must have—the robe of Christ’s righteousness. “If any man will come after Me,” Christ says, “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.] Let the work of purification begin in the heart and extend outward till the whole being is sanctified, cleansed, and refined.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 10)
I have been given this message to bear. We might just as well deal with the real merits of the case first as last. It must be plainly understood that those who live in an atmosphere of pride and display are not to be connected with the institutions to be established in Washington. The work in this place must be begun right, in accordance with the principles of God’s Word.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 11)
I write this because I know that the influence exerted by Sister Rousseau and Sister Tuxford is misleading and needs to be changed. I do not want to place any burden on you, but I wish to tell you that you are at liberty to make known, to whomsoever you may see fit, that which I have written you regarding Sister Rousseau and Sister Tuxford. If you think best, you may let these sisters see what I have written.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 12)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 85, 1904, 13)
Lt 87, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 15, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MR 324-325. My dear son Willie,—
I miss you every day. I should be so glad to see you coming to my room again with your hands full of letters to talk over matters of interest with me. But I will not complain. I feel so thankful for this refuge. My room is worth a great deal to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 1)
Brother Cady came to St. Helena on the morning train yesterday, and I had some talk with him before dinner. He told me that I had told him to keep his eyes open, as he traveled from place to place, for a favorable place in which to establish the school, and that he had found one place that seemed suitable. It is six or seven miles from Sebastopol, and there are one hundred and fifty acres of excellent land.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 2)
The property is owned by a lady who bought it for a health resort. She has had as many as one hundred and fifty people there at one time. The house on the place is not an expensive building, yet every room is commodious.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 3)
There are thirty acres of orchard, and the trees are in bearing. There are forty acres of forest land covered with oak, pine, and other kinds of trees.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 4)
The lady would like to sell part of the land to meet a mortgage on the property. Brother Cady asked her if she would like to sell the whole property, and she very decidedly said No. Afterward he received a letter from her, saying that she would sell the property for fifteen thousand dollars. He wrote and asked her if this was the lowest price that she would take, but he has not yet received a reply. Brother Cady is very favorably impressed with the place. There would be ample room from agricultural work to be carried on by the students. There is an abundant supply of water and no frost. He thinks that oranges would grow there.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 5)
When you come home again, you must go to see this place.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 6)
Elder Loughborough came today, bringing with him the manuscript for his new book. He wishes to call my attention to some points. I could do nothing about the matter today, but will try to go over the points with him tomorrow. He took dinner with us. He seems to be in good spirits.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 7)
I wrote to Dr. Whitelock today in regard to the purchase of the Potts Sanitarium and the property adjoining it. From a letter that I received from Dr. Whitelock, I gathered that they do not clearly understand whether the Grainger property is to be purchased or not. Dr. Whitelock said in his letter that ten acres of the Grainger property had already been sold, and that the rest was offered for ten thousand dollars.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 8)
I wrote to him to secure the property before any more of it is sold. I thought that this would be your judgment. The Grainger property should be secured if the Potts Sanitarium is purchased.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 9)
I told them that if they got into financial straits, I could borrow money from the bank and send them some. The two thousand dollars loaned me by the General Conference Association I have placed in the bank, with the exception of five hundred dollars, which I sent to Dr. Whitelock.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 10)
Dr. Whitelock asked me to telegraph in regard to the Grainger property, and I sent them a message, telling them to follow their best judgment. Sister Gotzian is there, and Dr. Whitelock said that he had written for Brother Ballenger to come, that they might counsel with him. I think that I have done all that I can do, and I shall let the matter rest with those who have taken the responsibility.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 11)
We are all well. I am writing some important matter which I hope to get off in a few days. I am sleeping in my office room now, and the rheumatism does not trouble me nearly so much.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 12)
Just a few words in regard to the work in Washington. I do not look with favor upon the prospect of Sister Rousseau and Sister Tuxford being connected with this work. Neither of them understands how to economize, and their expenditure of means, in such an institution as a sanitarium, would not have the best influence. This is the light given me. If they were connected with the sanitarium to be established, or with the restaurant, needless expense would be incurred.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 13)
The thought of these women being connected with the work in Washington is painful to me. They have not the experience that would fit them for such work. I know that what I am saying is true. At every step economy must be studied and practiced. We can not afford to follow the counsel of those who do not know the meaning of self-denial or self-sacrifice. Every inclination to display is to be guarded against.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 14)
In the past this matter has been presented to me as I now present it to you, and I write you this that you may know what steps to take. The sisters I have mentioned would better connect with some other work. We cannot run the risk of having them connect with the work in Washington.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 15)
Your family are all well. I have not yet taken treatment, but I am preparing to. I hope that you will guard your health carefully.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 16)
In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 87, 1904, 17)
Lt 89, 1904
Ballenger, E. S. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 18, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brother Ballenger,—
I am not certain that in my letters to Dr. Whitelock I have mentioned the matter of your father’s connection with the Potts Sanitarium enterprise. I am pleased to know that you are willing to share the responsibility of this enterprise. I have confidence in you and your father as men of sound judgment, and I believe that you will be a help to the enterprise. I trust that you will do what you can to secure both the Potts Sanitarium and the Grainger property. The Grainger property should be secured as a place where homes may be built for those connected with the institution.
(19LtMs, Lt 89, 1904, 1)
We shall seek to co-operate with those who have been given the responsibility of purchasing the property. And we wish you and Dr. Whitelock and others who are interested in this enterprise to unite with us in trying to interest others to assist us in paying for the property.
(19LtMs, Lt 89, 1904, 2)
The securing of this property seems to me to be in harmony with the instruction given me that places in the country, on which are buildings suitable for our work, will be offered to us at low prices, and we should improve these opportunities.
(19LtMs, Lt 89, 1904, 3)
Let us have faith in God. Let us ask Him to overrule all things to His name’s glory and to guide in the selection of the proper persons to make the necessary preparations, that as soon as possible, sanitarium work may be started. Consecrated men and women are needed who are able and willing to make a success of sanitarium work.
(19LtMs, Lt 89, 1904, 4)
We do not want to move according to human wisdom, but according to the wisdom of God. Move as rapidly as possible in securing the places mentioned. And please let us hear from you in regard to what you have done. I have written to Dr. Whitelock, and for several days have been looking for a reply, but it has not come as yet. We hope soon to hear that the property has been secured.
(19LtMs, Lt 89, 1904, 5)
May the Lord lead you and open right ways before you is my most earnest prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 89, 1904, 6)
Lt 91, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 18, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 57; 1SM 79-82; MRmnt 105. + My dear son Willie,—
We have been blessed with continuous rain so far this month. The rain has been steady, but gentle. Yesterday was a beautiful day, just like summer. The day before was very wet. Today the sun shines brightly. Yesterday I drove with Brother James to Dr. Burke’s place to see the black calf. I went more for the ride than for anything else, and yet I wanted to see the calf, to know if she were faring well after the long rain. But I could not get into the pasture, because so much rain has fallen. Brother James walked from the road to where the calf is. He says that the cow must be brought home. She will need care for the next two months, and then we shall have two cows to milk, besides the old black cow that we are now milking.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 1)
Your letter dated February 12 was placed in my hand at dinner time yesterday, and I read it with much interest. May called in to see me yesterday, and we had quite a long conversation. She asked me if Dores could stay with them till your return, to conduct family worship. Of course I consented. She was much pleased. She is very much pleased, also, that Nora is teaching the children. This takes a heavy burden off her. We shall do all that we can to supply your place while you are away, and to keep May from feeling lonely.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 2)
May and the children are well. We feel very thankful to the Lord that none of us are sick. We praise Him for His goodness and mercy. As I write I have a deep sense of gratitude for the loving watchcare of our Saviour over us all. As I read the Word of God and kneel in prayer, I am so impressed with the goodness and mercy of God that I cannot offer my petition without weeping. My heart is subdued and broken as I think of my heavenly Father’s goodness and love. I hunger and thirst for more and still more of Jesus in this life. Christ was crucified for me, and shall I complain if I am crucified with Christ?
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 3)
I never felt a more earnest longing for righteousness than at the present time. In the waking hours of the night my prayer is, “Lord, teach Thy people how to seek and save the lost sheep.”
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 4)
We know not what is before us, and our only safety is in walking with Christ, our hand in His, our hearts filled with perfect trust. Has He not said, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and He shall make peace with Me”? [Isaiah 27:5.] Let us keep close to the Saviour. Let us walk humbly with Him, filled with His meekness. Let self be hid with Him in God.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 5)
I had hoped to receive some word from San Diego before this time, but nothing comes. All we can do is to trust in God, leaving every matter in His hands.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 6)
I have written much today. My heart is drawn out in prayer to the great Physician. I am asking Him to let His healing power rest on my eyes and to give me clearness of comprehension. I cast myself, with all my infirmities, on the One who has given to all who are weary and heavy laden the invitation, “Come unto Me, ... 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.] All who respond to this invitation will find rest in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 7)
Those who cherish and flatter self, fostering pride and vanity, giving to dress and appearance the time and attention that ought to be given to the Master’s work, are incurring a fearful loss. Many who are clothed in beautiful outward garments know nothing of the inward adorning that is in the sight of God of great price. Their fine clothing covers a heart that is sinful and diseased, full of vanity and pride. They know not what it means to “seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” [Colossians 3:1.]
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 8)
I long to be filled day by day with the Spirit of Christ. The treasure of His grace is of more value to me than gold or silver or costly array. When my sisters catch a glimpse of what Christ has suffered in their behalf, that they might become children of God by adoption, they will no longer be satisfied with worldly pride and self-love. No longer will they worship self. God will be the object of their supreme regard.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 9)
My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Self-gratification is hiding Christ from their view. They have no desire to walk before God in meekness and lowliness. They are not looking to Jesus. They are not praying that they may be changed into His likeness. Their cases are represented by the man who came to the king’s banquet clothed in his common citizen-dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost he disdained to wear. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in thither not having on a wedding garment?” he could answer nothing. [Matthew 22:12.] He was speechless; for he was self-condemned.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 10)
Many who profess to be Christians are such only in name. They are not converted. They keep self prominent. They do not sit at the feet of Jesus, as Mary did, to learn of Him. They are not ready for Christ’s coming.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 11)
In the night season I was in a company of people whose hearts were filled with vanity and conceit. Christ was hid from their eyes. Suddenly, in loud, clear accents, the words were heard, “Jesus is coming to take to Himself those who on this earth have loved and served Him, to be with Him in His kingdom forever.” Many of those in the company went forth in their costly apparel to meet Him. They kept looking at their dress. But when they saw His glory, and realized that their estimation of one another had been so largely measured by outward appearance, they knew that they were without the robe of Christ’s righteousness, and that the blood of souls was on their garments.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 12)
When Christ took His chosen ones, they were left; for they were not ready. In their lives self had been given the first place, and when the Saviour came, they were not prepared to meet Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 13)
I awoke with the picture of their agonized countenances stamped on my mind. I cannot efface the impression. I wish I could describe the scene as it was presented to me. Oh, how sad was the disappointment of those who had not learned by experience the meaning of the words, “Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 14)
There are many professing Christians who know not Christ by an experimental knowledge. O how my heart aches for these poor, deceived, unprepared souls. As I stand before congregations, and see the self-sufficient, self-righteous ones, and know that they are not preparing themselves to do acceptable work for Christ, and to meet Him in peace, I am so burdened that I cannot sleep. I ask myself, What can I say to these souls that will arouse them to a sense of their true condition? Self is the all-absorbing theme of their life. I long to reveal Christ so plainly that they will behold Him and cease to center their attention on self.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 15)
Those who are connected with our institutions need the sanctifying grace of Christ. This they must have in order to reveal His meekness and lowliness. He is the example of what God expects all Christians to be.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 16)
Among those to whom bitter disappointment will come at the day of final reckoning will be some who have been outwardly religious and who apparently have lived Christian lives. But self is woven into all they do. They pride themselves on their morality, their influence, their ability to stand in a higher position than others, [and] their knowledge of the truth, for they think that these will win for them the commendation of Christ. “Lord,” they plead, “we have eaten and drunk in Thy presence, and Thou hast taught in our streets.” [Luke 13:26.] “Have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” [Matthew 7:22.]
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 17)
But Christ says, “I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from Me.” [Luke 13:27.] “Not every one 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.” [Matthew 7:21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 18)
There is no discussion; the time for that is past. The irrevocable sentence has been pronounced. They are shut out from heaven by their own unfitness for its companionship.
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 19)
“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built a house upon a rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” [Verses 24-27.]
(19LtMs, Lt 91, 1904, 20)
Lt 93, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 21, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 4MR 89. + My dear son Willie,—
I thank you very much for your letters, which are so full of news, and also for the copies of letters that you send from time to time.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 1)
I have no objection to Brother E. R. Palmer’s connecting with and acting a part in the sanitarium at San Diego. I feel very tender toward him.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 2)
With regard to the brethren Ross, I am inclined to think that you would better write them further before deciding to have them connect with the institution. I am not well enough acquainted with them to be able to speak intelligently in regard to this. I was pleased with what I saw of them in Indianapolis. The slight acquaintance that I have with them is pleasant. But it would be impossible for me to say what would be just the right thing to do in regard to asking them to connect with the sanitarium. We must look to God for wisdom at every step. If the furniture that you speak of can be secured at a reasonable price, I think that it might be well to purchase it. It will be no small matter to furnish the building at San Diego for sanitarium work.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 3)
In regard to the sale of your house, I advise you to dispose of it if you can. Then a smaller house can be built for you on any site that you may choose on my property, on this side or the other side of the road. But this will be a consideration for the future. I wish to say, my son, that my family and yours could not possibly occupy one house, here or in any other place. Noise and bustle I cannot bear. This must be understood. Our families could never occupy one house, but we must be near together, so that you can work with me.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 4)
In regard to moving our goods to Washington, I would say that it is doubtful whether I shall go to Washington. I obtain no light on the question, except the words, “I have a refuge for you.” The instruction that has been given me is that my strength is not to be exhausted in public effort for our churches or in traveling for long distances.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 5)
I fear that I shall not be able to go to Washington, even for a short time. I must spend the winters in a warm climate. During December and January, and especially January, we had the most beautiful weather for winter that I have ever experienced. During this month much rain has fallen, but it has been soft and gentle. Two weeks ago, the road just below Napa bridge was covered with water to a depth of three feet.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 6)
I had an appointment to speak in the St. Helena church last Sabbath. When Sabbath came, the morning was foggy, and the sky became cloudy. We feared that it might rain, but I kept my appointment, and we had a very good meeting. I spoke with freedom from the first chapter of Second Peter, and those present were much interested. There were many young men and women and children in the congregation. I was glad that I went.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 7)
I took a little cold, although I thought that I had taken every precaution against this. I have not been able to write at all since Sabbath. I have had to make myself write these few lines to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 8)
I have not yet recovered from the ill turn that I had the morning after you left. My head has been dizzy the greater part of the time since. I have not been able to use it.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 9)
My son, you must not plan to move our family. I see no light in this, but much that looks forbidding. The light that has been given me in the past is: “You must not place yourself under circumstances that will imperil your health. You have a work to do in preparing books, and you must not place yourself where additional burdens will fall on you.”
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 10)
I am warned that we cannot foresee and read just circumstances, and that I positively must have rest and quiet. The troubles of the church must not be brought upon me. I think that if I had to pass again through the experience that I passed through while attending the Oakland General Conference, it would cost me my life. So painful was this experience that I can never again risk going through such another.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 11)
Those who cause so much trouble and such acute suffering will in the future have to carry their own burdens. It is possible for a few so to manage matters that the enemy will work through them to wound and bruise my soul and destroy my life. “Keep away from all contention,” my Instructor said. “Leave the burdens on the ones who have created them. Do your work, not for a few, but for the many. Your voice must be heard by those not of our faith. The less you see of and suffer over the wrong course of those who have not heeded the light that has come to them again and again, and who, by their refusal to repent of their evil course, are bringing confusion and perplexity and heart-agony, the more strength and light and counsel you can give to those who will appreciate the light and who will not follow a course that will wear out your life. Until the end of time there will be some who will persist in following a wrong course and in regarding their own wisdom as sufficient. Such ones will be unprepared to meet the Lord.”
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 12)
The Scriptures often speak of the stubborn resistance of the children of Israel to the light given them. Satan stands ready to control all who will allow him to lead them.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 13)
The Lord does not desire me to carry on my soul the burden of men and women who have been warned and corrected personally, but who have gone directly contrary to the counsel given them. Many do not follow on to know the Lord. Many have had all the evidence that they will ever receive. They do not need further counsel; they need to appreciate and follow out the counsel already given them, from which they have turned away, because it is not in harmony with the ideas that the author of all evil has suggested to their minds.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 14)
Many have said, “the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, are we.” [Jeremiah 7:4.] But they have accumulated so much worldly business upon their hands that they have no time to set their hearts in order. There is great danger that they will become so absorbed in the bustle and hurry of their business that they will have no time to examine themselves in the light of God’s Word. They have become confused in regard to what constitutes true Christian service.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 15)
Let those who attend the council meetings held follow our Lord into the solitude of Olivet. Let them look to their example—Jesus, the author and finisher of their faith. They may themselves devise plans which would keep the church continually employed, but which would retard rather than advance the cause of God. Men are in great danger of accepting the false for the true. Satan is greatly pleased when strength of mind and body is employed in hindering the work that should be moving forward unto perfection.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 16)
Let us work with all humility of mind, working out our own salvation with fear and trembling. Mere hurry and bustle do not advance the work of soul-purification. We shall be judged, not according to our activity, but according to the faithfulness we have shown in following God’s directions.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 17)
Man must co-operate with God, for He it is that “worketh in you both to will and do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:13.] Remember the words spoken to Zerubbabel, “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Zechariah 4:6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 18)
“Then answered I, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof? And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves? And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my Lord. Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.” [Verses 11-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 19)
Well, I had no idea that I could write so much. I must stop now, with just a few more words about our going to Washington. Willie, I cannot spend time moving from place to place. And besides taking time, this unfits me for work.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 20)
I am very favorably situated for my work. I have excellent helpers who earnestly co-operate with me in the work of the Lord. I think of the books that ought now to be in circulation, and are not yet prepared. If I can keep my peace of mind and heart, I can write, I can write much valuable instruction. The books that ought to have been prepared long ago can be prepared.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 21)
I might have had more books prepared by this time, had I not tried to help so much in other lines. The Lord has wrought through me, but church members, ministers, and physicians, and others in responsible places have made my work much harder. By their unsanctified will and unsanctified ways they have hurt themselves and me. Their condition, unsanctified and disbelieving, makes me so sad that I cannot rest. The churches have not heeded the Word of the Lord, and the work that might have been done is not done.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 22)
At my age, I must take time to rest. I must not be kept continually in affliction of soul over those who are not helped by the messages that God sends. Because they do not heed these messages, they are in a worse condition than if the message had never come to them. The Lord’s Spirit is resisted, and disbelief is cherished. They think and talk unbelief, and grow more and more like those spoken of in the message to the Laodicean church. They profess much, yet their works deny their profession.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 23)
Last night I slept only three hours, from eight to eleven. O how my soul longs to see the people of God zealous in repentance. I entreat them to prepare to meet their God. Can they not see in the rapid growth of trades-unions the fulfilling of the signs of the times? Those forming the labor unions are determined to have their own way. Violence and death mean nothing to them if their unions are opposed. The Spirit is working in those who profess to believe the truth, but who, because they do not live the truth, are always in contention.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 24)
The judgments of God are in the land. The wars and rumors of wars, the destruction by fire and flood, say clearly that the time of trouble which is to increase until the end is already in the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 93, 1904, 25)
Lt 95, 1904
Whitelock, T. S. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 22, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Whitelock,—
Your letter which arrived yesterday noon has greatly relieved my mind. I am sure that it is best for us to go deep and lay our foundation upon solid rock. You are doing right to move slowly and surely.
(19LtMs, Lt 95, 1904, 1)
If the Lord desires us to secure the Potts Sanitarium, which seems to be a suitable place for our sanitarium work, He will surely help us to secure it. If it is not His will that we should purchase this property, then we do not want it. But I believe the Lord desires us to have this place, and that He will work for us in the matter of securing it. Even if for some reason the price of the property is raised, we know that it is worth far more than the sum for which it has been offered to us, provided the papers show clearly that the place is free from mortgage.
(19LtMs, Lt 95, 1904, 2)
The less we say publicly about our desire to secure the property the better, for if those who are interested in its sale think that we are very anxious to secure it, they may raise their price.
(19LtMs, Lt 95, 1904, 3)
I have recently received letters from W. C. White, and he has sent me a copy of what he wrote to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 95, 1904, 4)
I have no idea of moving with my family to Washington. I see no light in such a move. It means too much for me to break up my work here. I may go for a few weeks, but not to stay. If I should go anywhere, I would prefer to go to San Diego. When the purchase of the sanitarium is completed, and the work of the institution is organized, I would like to visit you. We shall await developments.
(19LtMs, Lt 95, 1904, 5)
Lt 97, 1904
Hall, L. M. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 23, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in PC 41. Dear Sister Hall,—
This morning I awoke at three o’clock. Last Sunday night I did not sleep after half-past eleven. I will now write you a few lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 1)
A few days ago I was surprised to learn that Dr. Jean Whitney was here at the Sanitarium, stopping off on her way from Portland to Battle Creek where she was going to see her mother who has been sick for some months. I know that the Michigan climate is not suited for you or for me or for Sister Whitney. I asked Dr. Whitney to wait here and to write to her mother, asking her to come to California. The money that would be required to pay Dr. Whitney’s fare to Battle Creek would bring her mother to California, where she would be in a more favorable climate. While Dr. Whitney is waiting, she can help at the Sanitarium here.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 2)
Last night I received a letter from Sister Whitney, saying that she would come to California and would leave Battle Creek the 28th of this month. Can you not come with her? We shall indeed be pleased if you can. But if you feel that you should remain longer in Battle Creek, it will be all right. I wish you to follow your own judgment.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 3)
I wish you could have spent this winter with us in California. I think it has been the most beautiful winter I have ever passed through. In December we had one very gentle rain which lasted for a few days. Very little rain fell in January. We had some frost in the mornings, but the days were beautiful—almost like summer days.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 4)
I will send you a copy of a letter that I have written to Willie concerning my plans. Willie has thought we might all go to Washington. This letter will explain my views regarding such a move.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 5)
We are much interested in the matter of purchasing the Potts Sanitarium property near San Diego, which originally cost about twenty-eight thousand dollars, but is now offered to us for a very low price. It will take at least three thousand dollars to repair the building, which has not been occupied for about fifteen years. If the papers clearly show that the property is free from mortgage, we have decided that we will purchase the sanitarium. We are also thinking of buying the Grainger property lying just across the road from the sanitarium. The Grainger place consists of ninety acres of land on which are three houses. Part of the land is set out with orange and lemon trees.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 6)
Sister Gotzian and I clasped hands in an agreement to unite in helping to purchase the Potts Sanitarium, provided the deeds of the property are secure. There seem to be some complications, but the legal status of the property is being thoroughly investigated. The Grainger property is offered to us for ten thousand dollars. I borrowed five hundred dollars from the bank and sent it to pay for an option on the place for three months.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 7)
Dr. Whitelock, Brother E. S. Ballenger and his father, and Sister Gotzian are now on the ground and are taking the steps necessary to complete the purchase. Matters move slowly, for some of those who are interested in the sale are in New York and Chicago.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 8)
We are praying the Lord to guide us in this movement, that only those things may be done that will tend to His name’s glory. We are waiting, trusting in Him to work for us if it is His will that we should secure these two places.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 9)
Last Sabbath I spoke in the St. Helena church. There was a good attendance, and all present seemed interested.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 10)
Night after the Sabbath it began to rain, and rain has been falling gently most of the time since then. All are rejoiced to see the rain, for at this season of the year rain is as precious as gold.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 11)
Do you know if any clover tops were gathered and dried for me in Battle Creek? If so, will you please send them to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 97, 1904, 12)
Lt 99, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 23, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 4MR 23, 90. + Dear children Edson and Emma,—
Yesterday I received a short letter from you, and this morning I found another under the door of my office room.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 1)
You ask in regard to the work of Brother Rogers. The light that has been given me is that, with good helpers, Brother Rogers would be an excellent man to work out the Huntsville school problem. But there is a great lack of genuine workers, and the question comes, Can Brother Rogers be spared for Huntsville? I wish we had many such men—men who would fear God and glorify His name. I can see light in Brother Rogers’ being connected with the Huntsville school as a general helper. But it often happens that men filling such positions are depended on to do the work, while those who are more closely connected with the school fail to do their utmost to improve their capabilities, to make steady advancement, holding every inch they gain.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 2)
The Lord has a man somewhere to take charge of the Huntsville school. The position is a difficult one to fill. It requires a man who will work patiently and kindly, yet firmly, exercising authority, yet without harshness and severity. God would have some one begin in the right way at Huntsville and put his ingenuity to the tax to make the work a success.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 3)
Keep repeating the words, “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.” [John 14:26.] We must be more diligent students of the Word of God. We must eat the Word, as represented in the sixth chapter of John, making its divine principles a part of the life.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 4)
Are we not inclined to look on the dark side and to talk unbelief? The Lord wants us to help one another, to build one another up in the most holy faith. Many may talk discouragingly in regard to the Huntsville school, but do not let this lead you to look at the school in their light. There is a bright side to the picture. Try to find it. In a humble, prayerful, consecrated spirit, talk the matter over together, and light will come in.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 5)
I have no definite instruction to give you in regard to Brother Rogers. I dare not speak definitely in regard to matters that I do not understand. The Lord will guide you in counsel if you will seek Him with the whole heart. But there is one thing that I am able to say. It would hardly do to confine Brother Rogers to the Huntsville school, when he is able to fill a wider sphere of usefulness.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 6)
I believe that the Lord will help you to adjust these matters. Cast your souls upon Him in faith, and you will see a way out. Seek counsel of Him, and He will surely bless you.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 7)
There is a great work before us. The enemy has succeeded in occupying the minds of those who believe the truth for this time, and hindrance after hindrance has been placed in the way of the advancement of God’s work. The work in the Southern field should be fifteen years in advance of what it now is. Warning after warning has been given, saying that the time to work the Southern field was fast passing, and that soon this field would be much more difficult to work. It will be more difficult in the future than it is today. Satanic agencies are becoming more determined in their rebellion against God. The trades-unions will be the cause of the most terrible violence that has ever been seen among human beings.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 8)
The Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the earth, and unrepentant sinners are being left to the control of the enemy, to the destiny that they themselves have chosen. Those who persist in violating the holy Sabbath of the Lord, set apart by Him as a day of rest, will soon see that God will punish the transgressors of His law. Men are to reap as they have sown.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 9)
God stands at the helm. He is calling upon His people to come into harmony, to remain no longer in strife and disunion.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 10)
A few minutes ago, while searching for a manuscript, I found a letter written to you nearly a year ago, but never sent. I have come across several such letters. I suppose that while writing them, I was called away, and the letters, laid aside, were forgotten. I have given the letter to Maggie to be copied, and it will be sent you tomorrow.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 11)
I must close this letter now; for I have important matter to write for the Omaha meeting. May the Lord help you all at that meeting, is my prayer. Always do the best you can.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 12)
How is Emma? I do not hear a word from her. Is she at home, or with her mother? Write and tell me.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 13)
May the Lord God of Israel be with you. At the family altar I pray for you and Emma, for Elder Butler, for Elder Haskell and his wife, and for all the other workers in the Lord’s vineyard. I remember Brother Palmer in prayer by name and entreat the Lord in his behalf.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 14)
In love to yourself and Emma.
(19LtMs, Lt 99, 1904, 15)
Lt 101, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California September 30, 1903 Previously unpublished. + Dear son Edson and daughter Emma,—
I have recently received two letters from you, also a copy of your letter to Elder Daniells.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 1)
By this time you have probably received the draft I sent to you for one thousand dollars. I questioned as to whether I should send this money, for I have not a penny in the bank. But after talking to Willie about it, I decided to send it, although we need every dollar we can hold. I received two hundred dollars from Review and Herald today, but this is due to my workers. I shall have to borrow one thousand dollars from the bank, for which I must pay eight per cent interest.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 2)
Last week I went to Healdsburg, where I spoke twice in council meetings and once on Sabbath. The Lord gave me a message for the people. When I am called upon to speak to a congregation, I find that the Lord gives me words to speak that are right to the point.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 3)
You have been represented to me as speaking in public when angels of God stood by your side to help you in presenting the message with earnestness. Self was submerged in Jesus. Your words were spoken and impressively, and the tone of voice was not harsh. Your heart and the hearts of those who listened were softened to tenderness. When you spoke in regard to the atonement, your speech was subdued, and the words were such as to impress the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 4)
God would have every minister cultivate the voice. Speaking is a science. It will profit every minister so to discipline and train his powers of speech that his words may have the very best effect possible. He should not speak so rapidly that it will be difficult to distinguish one word from another. But it is most important that he receive the training that comes from the Spirit of God within the heart. Those who engage in a work of teaching others need first themselves to be taught as little children the first principles of truth—love to God and love to their neighbor.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 5)
The Lord desires His ministering servants to be kept free from anxiety. Never give occasion for reproach that your religion makes you gloomy. Let not your brethren gather from your influence a spirit of despondency. The religion of Jesus presents hope—the only real hope there is in this world. Then be cheerful, full of faith and courage. While avoiding a cheap and trifling spirit, you may adorn the gospel of Christ by manifesting cheerfulness at all times. God would have every soul rejoice in His grace.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 6)
“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. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 7)
“Thomas saith unto Him, Lord, we know not whither Thou goest; and how can we know the way? 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 know Him, and have seen Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 8)
“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?” [John 14:1-9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 9)
Christ is the express image of His Father’s person, the brightness of His Father’s glory. Hence those who know Christ have a more perfect knowledge of God through their acquaintance with Him whom God sent into the world as His representative.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 10)
“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.”
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 12)
“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. 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.” [Verses 22-26.]
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 13)
Christ reproved His disciples for their slowness of heart in comprehending His statements to them. Many of the truths He taught them were but imperfectly understood. But He promised them that the Holy Spirit would recall to their mind His sayings as truths that they had not before understood. At His meeting with the disciples after the resurrection, He said, “These are the things which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you.... Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scripture.” [Luke 24:44, 45.]
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 14)
“Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that My 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.” [John 14:13-15.]
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 15)
Perfect obedience to His commandments is the sign that distinguishes those who love God. To live the truth is the very best way to preach the gospel. True believers in Christ will not be satisfied with a limited knowledge of the truth. Truth, received and practiced, will expand and will transform the receiver into the likeness of its divine Originator. The reception of truth insures constant light. They who ever look to the Pattern become partakers of the divine nature and grow to be like Him in character.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 16)
I feel so thankful to our heavenly Father that He has given Christ to our world. We should ever rejoice with true piety for this unspeakable Gift. In Christ is infinite grace, truth, life, and light for all who keep His commandments. And He has plainly revealed what we must do in order to receive His blessings.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 17)
Why, I ask, is the church so slow in comprehending sanctifying truth? Nothing short of perfect obedience to the commandments of God will prepare men for those mansions which Christ is preparing for those who love Him. We need in our hearts Christ’s love for one another. We need to learn His meekness and lowliness. “Take My yoke upon you,” He says, “and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 18)
All who realize their need of a divine Helper, and take hold upon Christ, will receive power to perfect righteousness. They will not put their Saviour to open shame by doing mean and selfish actions.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 19)
There are many who make their boast that they are “rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.” But Christ testifies of them, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.”“Thou knowest not that thou art wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.” The church is in dire spiritual poverty and know not their true condition. Will they not heed the admonition of Christ: “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”? [Revelation 3:15, 17, 18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 20)
“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 will hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and 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 on His throne.” [Verses 19-21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 21)
Let no one seek to spiritualize this message away, or to say, These words do not describe my condition. This message is given for every one who is not awake to see his defects of character. Christ, the faithful and the true Witness, says of His church today that in their self-sufficiency, they know not their poverty of soul, but think that they are rich and increased with goods. Unless they shall change, Christ will spew them out of His mouth. Then is it not time that church members should awake out of their sleep of ignorance?
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 22)
As a people we need to profit by the record of the children of Israel. Through unbelief they failed again and again, but we are admonished not to fall as many of them fell in unbelief and perished in impenitence. The Lord bears long with His backsliding people and continues to call them to repentance. But if they persist in resisting the Spirit of God, they will soon be left to the results of their own course.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 23)
We are living in the great day of atonement. Shall we as a church heed the counsel of Christ, or shall we stand in our light, and refuse to humble our hearts before God? Our only hope of salvation is to repent, while it is called today. “He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” [Proverbs 29:1.] There is peril in delay.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 24)
I call upon our people to arouse from their self-complacency. God has given us many messages of warning, even as He sent repeated warnings to Israel; and many today, like the children of Israel, have “feared not God, nor regarded His warnings.”
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 25)
Is it not for the interest of every church that the members cease their murmuring and complaining against one another and examine their own hearts? Let them cease to push and crowd one another. Let those who are placed in positions of responsibility remember that God knows their works. He calls upon all to repent of their deeds which have wounded the Son of God afresh and put Him to open shame.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 26)
Many have lost their bearings. They know not what is truth. Their own pride and self-exaltation, their envy and a desire to be first are characteristics of those who are under the banner of Satan.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 27)
Satan is preparing for every soul his delusions, clothed with fascinating attractions. The fanciful doctrines that tend to confuse minds are from Satan. His deceptions are manifold. Many are taken captive by him, and some seem to have no power to go from the snare.
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 28)
God has spoken to His people by testimonies, by words of reproof and warning. These have been misrepresented, sneered at, misinterpreted, and rejected by many. The Lord then spoke by fire, and two of our largest institutions were swept away by fire. These things were not taken to heart as they should have been. Some have done all in their power to remove the impression that their own course of action was in any way responsible for the judgments of God by fire. What will God do next to make them understand that He is in earnest with them? Will they not now seek the Lord, and humble their hearts before Him in repentance, while it is not too late for wrongs to be righted?
(19LtMs, Lt 101, 1904, 29)
Lt 103, 1904
Craw, Hiram A. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 24, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 13MR 390-394. Dear Brother Craw,—
I write to ask you if you can lend me one or two thousand dollars at a low rate of interest. If you can, it will be a great accommodation to me. I am trying to prepare for publication many things that the people should have. I desire to complete manuscripts on both Old and New Testament history, that this matter may, as soon as possible, be put into circulation in book form.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 1)
I invest in the work of God all the means that I can possibly spare. I sent one thousand dollars to Elder Haskell to help in beginning the work in New York City. He and his wife have done faithful work in this large city. They are able to explain the Word with such simplicity that those who desire to understand the truth are enlightened. As a result of their labors in New York, many have accepted the truth and have founded their house so firmly on the Rock that the storm and tempest of error cannot move them.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 2)
I wish that I had money to invest in other places like Greater New York. Many cities in the South should be worked. We who know the truth should do what we can to proclaim the truth in new places, to carry the light to those who are in the darkness of error. Those who have never heard the truth for this time are to be given an opportunity of understanding it. But it requires money to carry the truth to new fields.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 3)
When I urge our brethren to begin the work in new places, they often say, “We are doing all that we can with the means that we have at our command.” Unless we can raise the necessary money, it will be impossible for us to enter our large cities with the gospel message. I appeal to all our people to do what they can with the means they have received from the Lord, to help in fulfilling the commission that Christ gave to His disciples just before He left them:
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 4)
“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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 5)
To us is committed the most solemn message ever committed to mortals. Every delay is a loss of most precious time.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 6)
Can you influence any of those whom you know to be entrusted by the Lord with the talent of means to lend me money, with or without interest, to be used in the work of the Lord? I will give my note for whatever sums I may receive. In the past some have lent me money without interest. And no one has ever asked me for the return of his money without receiving it.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 7)
If our brethren will now lend me money, with or without interest, I will invest it in various parts of the field to help carry forward the work that needs to be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 8)
It was thus that I helped in the advancement of the work in Australia. I should like to write particulars, but cannot do so now. I borrowed money for the erection of meetinghouses and to provide facilities for tent meetings. After a time Elder Haskell came to Australia, and he was a great help to us. He interested some of our brethren in Africa in the work that was being started, and they sent us two thousand dollars to invest in the work in Australia. I used the royalties on my books to help in starting a school in Melbourne, and then I borrowed money from those who were interested in the work. After the work was started in Victoria, we went to New South Wales, which was then a new field, and there the Lord wrought for us at every step. The work has advanced rapidly, and now we have an excellent work established. I hope sometime to publish an account of our labors in starting the work in Australia.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 9)
We realize that the truths of the Word of God must be carried to all the world, and we are doing the best we can. I have helped the work in Europe as much as possible. It cost me over three thousand dollars to have my books translated into the foreign languages. All the royalty on my books sold in Europe I have given to the work in that field. This has amounted to several thousand dollars. Elder Conradi has been doing a noble work in the different countries of Europe.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 10)
A few weeks ago Elder Conradi sent me five hundred dollars of my royalty, hearing that I was pressed for means. As soon as I receive sufficient money from the sale of my books, I shall return this five hundred dollars.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 11)
Besides what I have invested in Australia and in Europe, I have also made donations to the Southern field. I have borrowed money to send to them when they were in strait places. I shall continue to do all I can to help the needy fields. Time is short, and I wish to see the money of our people that is tied up in banks put into circulation where it can help the work of God. When I receive what I have invested in my books, I hope to have money sufficient to repay what I have borrowed and to have more of my own money to use.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 12)
My brother, you are acquainted with my early experience. You understand how the Spirit of the Lord has led and instructed me. You have seen the manifestation of the Spirit and have believed the testimonies. I am glad to address you as one who has held fast his confidence.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 13)
Will you place a copy of this letter in the hands of those whom you think might be sufficiently interested in the work of God to make me their agent, and entrust me with their means, either as a loan or a gift? Let us do all we can to help advance the work. The Southern field needs help; Washington, the capital city of our nation, needs help; Brother Magan needs help at Berrien Springs. For lack of means, the school at Berrien Springs has not buildings suitable for their work. The health of teachers and students is imperilled. I have been surprised that they can get along as they have done, with such poor facilities.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 14)
My soul is in distress as I see souls perishing out of Christ. I long to see them coming into the truth. I see many places where means is greatly needed, that a beginning may be made.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 15)
The medical missionary work is the pioneer work of the gospel. Work for the sick and suffering tends to remove prejudice against the evangelical work. The hearts of those for whom medical missionary work is done are often, by this means, opened to the truth. By this work wealthy people may be reached, who with their means will assist in the work. This has been demonstrated in Australia.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 16)
We have no time to lose. Troublous times are before us. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. Soon the scenes of trouble spoken of in the prophecies will take place. The prophecy in the eleventh of Daniel has nearly reached its complete fulfilment. Much of the history that has taken place in fulfilment of this prophecy will be repeated. In the thirtieth verse a power is spoken of that “shall be grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant. And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate. And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 17)
“And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days. Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries. And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is yet for a time appointed.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 18)
“And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvelous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.” [Verses 30-36.]
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 19)
Scenes similar to those described in these words will take place. We see evidence that Satan is fast obtaining the control of human minds, who have not the fear of God before them. Let all read and understand the prophecies of this book, for we are now entering upon the time of trouble spoken of:
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 20)
“At that time shall Michael stand up, the great Prince that 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. But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” [Daniel 12:1-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 21)
The Spirit of the Lord is being withdrawn from the world. It is no time now for men to exalt themselves. It is no time for the people of God to be erecting costly buildings, or to be using the Lord’s entrusted talent of means in glorifying themselves. Whatever we do we should do economically. The buildings we erect should be plain, without useless display. Let us beware of selfish greed.
(19LtMs, Lt 103, 1904, 22)
Lt 105, 1904
White, J. E. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 1, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MR 397; 4MR 24; LLM 51; 5Bio 319. + My dear son Edson,—
I should be very much pleased to see you. I should like to visit you in your own home.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 1)
Edson, I do not want you to censure your brother in any way in regard to my going to Washington. You must not do this: for it is not right. Do not blame him at all; for I gave him encouragement to think that I would make the trip. Willie is very desirous that the work in Washington shall be established on right lines, that it may prove to be a complete success. And I have received letters saying that if I could make my home in Washington for a time, the confidence of our people would be established in the work there.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 2)
But I cannot expect that my life will last long, and I cannot think of following out the plan that we had made. At first it was thought that I would go East, leaving my family here. Then the plan grew, and we talked of taking my workers and spending a year in the East. But, I am free to say that the Lord does not call upon me to take upon myself the burden of doing pioneer work in a place where there have been Sabbathkeepers for years, and where there are two classes of believers, white and colored. We had some experiences at St. Louis that I can never think of without a feeling of dread.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 3)
It will be impossible to adjust all matters regarding the color question in accordance with the Lord’s order until those who believe the truth are so closely united with Christ that they are one with Him. Both the white and the colored members of our churches need to be converted. There are some of both classes who are unreasonable, and when the color question is agitated, they manifest unsanctified, unconverted traits of character. Quarrelsome elements are easily aroused in those who, because they have never learned to wear the yoke of Christ, are opinionated and obstinate. In such, self clamors with an unsanctified determination for the supremacy.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 4)
I wish you to understand that at first I favored the idea of making a visit to the East, and of visiting Boston, Melrose, Washington, Portland, and other places. I wished particularly to visit Nashville, and this I was planning to do.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 5)
We planned to spend about a year in the Eastern states, making Washington our headquarters. This I desired to do, and as I said nothing against the plan, Willie thought that my silence was consent.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 6)
One day I was praying about the matter, and presentations were made that I could not but understand. I could then see plainly that to move my family to Washington would be unwise and expensive and would greatly retard the work that I so greatly desired to do—to gather up the writings that contain instruction correcting the errors of ministers, physicians, and church members, and put them in such form that the people can have them.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 7)
I now have round me a family of workers who do not burden me at all. We labor in unity, and with W. C. White to act in his father’s stead in selecting from the copied testimonies that which is most suitable for publication for our people, we can accomplish much. The great majority of our people are ignorant of the light that has been given to our different institutions—the instruction by which he has sought to lead in straight paths those connected with these institutions.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 8)
For years these testimonies have not been published, because both you and Willie were called away from me to attend important meetings, and without help I was unable to do what needed to be done in getting the matter into proper shape. The churches have become confused through the lowering of the standard by those chosen to carry responsibilities in our publishing work and in the medical missionary work. Commercial matters have been mingled with the medical missionary work, which has not exerted the pure, holy, uplifting influence that its name signifies should be exerted.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 9)
Testimonies clearly specifying existing errors have been sent to the men occupying responsible positions in our institutions. Definite instruction has been given concerning the part that the medical missionary workers are to act in the work of God. They are to stand as God’s witnesses, to represent the work of the great Medical Missionary, Jesus Christ—God’s Gift to our world to save men from the very mistakes that have brought the rebuke of God upon this people. Not a thread of selfishness is to be woven into the web. But some occupying positions of responsibility, by their transgression of God’s law in their business dealings, and by the wrong spirit they have manifested toward the apprentices placed in their care, have demonstrated that they are not fitted to deal with human minds. Their own characters are warped, and they are unsafe guardians of the young.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 10)
In response to the messages sent by the Spirit of God, some have realized the evil of their course and have made efforts to repent and change their policy. Others have been obstinate, determined to carry out their worldly plans. They have despised and rejected all the reproofs and warnings that God has sent them. What more could the Lord do than He has done to show that He cannot justify the works that He has so often condemned? Again and again the warning was given that unless an entire change should take place in the lives of the managers of our institutions, the Lord could not approve of or prosper them. But they persisted in walking in their own ways, and the Lord sent His fires to purify His institutions.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 11)
Instead of a large number of buildings being erected in Battle Creek, the work of our institutions there should have been divided and subdivided. Small plants should have been made in many places where they could have been as lights in the world. This counsel has been often repeated.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 12)
The instruction that has been given should be placed in the hands of the people. Many of our people have no idea of how the Lord has sent message after message to His institutions.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 13)
Our work was begun by self-sacrificing effort amidst hardship and privation. But as buildings multiplied, they were established according to their money value, and the love of God began to leave the hearts of the workers. A spirit of rivalry, a feeling of superiority, began to come in, which did not rightly represent the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 14)
The printing office failed to train the youth connected with it by patient effort to work in missionary lines in different parts of the world. The Spirit of God was grieved, and Satan exulted in the course of men whose lives were an offense to God. The Lord God of heaven was dishonored as worldly policy was mingled with His work.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 15)
The Lord desires those connected with His work to seek Him with the whole heart. He will be to them a present help in every time of need.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 16)
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ: even as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.” [Ephesians 1:3, 4.] This should be the condition of the men whom God has placed in His churches and institutions.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 17)
“Having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Christ Jesus unto Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved: in whom we have our redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, making known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Him unto a dispensation of the fulness of the times, to sum up all things in Christ; the things in the heavens, and the things upon the earth; in Him, I say, in whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His will; to the end that we should be to the praise of His glory, we who had before hoped in Christ: in whom ye also, having heard the word of the truth, the gospel of your salvation—in whom, having also believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, which is an earnest of our inheritance, unto the redemption of God’s own possession, unto the praise of His glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 18)
“For this cause I also, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which is among you, and the love which ye show toward all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; having the eyes of your heart enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of the strength of His might which He wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead, and made Him to sit at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule, and authority, and power, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come.” [Verses 5-21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 19)
My Instructor read the second chapter of Ephesians and then made a strong appeal that every effort should be made to guard against connecting with the institutions, to be established in Washington, men who have not a deep and thorough knowledge of the truth. There is danger of bringing in men who seem to be well qualified for some lines of work, but who, before they are placed in important positions in the work of God, need to show in their lives an entire reformation of character. In every business transaction there is to be a strict observance of the Word of God, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Leviticus 19:18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 20)
“And you did He make alive, when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins, ... doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.” [Ephesians 2:1, 3.] This evil spirit will reveal itself in every one who has not been made alive through the power of Christ. But we cannot allow this influence to work as leaven in any of our educational centers.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 21)
We have seen enough of the work of men who are neither cold nor hot. There is more hope for acknowledged unbelievers than for such men. Through those who have a form of godliness, but who have not submitted to Christ, Satan works to discourage souls that are seeking to do God’s service. Such men are just as surely doing the work of Satan as is the most open sinner. If given an opportunity, they will, in the institutions at Washington, repeat the history of the past.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 22)
I feel sad as I see how many have not the qualifications demanded by Christ. He 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.] When Christ is received in the heart, self is completely humbled.
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 23)
“Ye are the salt of the earth,” Christ says to His disciples: “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.” [Matthew 5:13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 105, 1904, 24)
Lt 107, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 28, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 6BC 1106; 7BC 905; CC 342. + Dear Brother Butler,—
I hear, through a letter from Edson, that you have been sick. He tells me that you went North to attend some meetings, and to try to raise some means for the work in the South, but that you did not receive the encouragement or the means for which you hoped. Well, my brother, you did your duty, did you not? You presented before the people the needs of the Southern field. The journey was not one that you would have chosen to take for pleasure. Travelling at this season of the year is not very enjoyable. You went to do the will of God. If the response made by the people had been proportionate to the necessities of the case, how little you would have cared for the disagreeable experiences connected with the performance of your duty. It does indeed seem as if your appeals ought to have met with a heartier response; and yet, we do not know all the circumstances.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 1)
Do not become discouraged. Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot; for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work. He was the servant of God and must carry out His will. By word of mouth and by letter, he bore a message that ever since has brought help and strength to the church of God. To us living on the eve of the close of this earth’s history, the message that he bore speaks plainly of the dangers that will threaten the church and of the false doctrines that the people of God will have to meet.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 2)
Paul was a tentmaker, and he supported himself by working at his trade. While working thus, he spoke of the gospel to those with whom he came in contact and turned many souls from error to truth. He lost no opportunity of speaking of the Saviour or of helping those in trouble.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 3)
Paul went from place to place, from city to city, preaching the gospel of Christ and establishing churches. Wherever he could find a hearing, he labored to counterwork error and to turn the feet of men and women into the path of right.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 4)
Those who by his labors in a place were led to accept Christ as their Saviour he organized into a church. No matter how few in number they might be, this was done. These souls were to help one another, remembering the promise, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Matthew 18:20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 5)
And Paul did not forget the churches thus established. However small a church might be, it was the object of his care and interest. He watched the smaller churches carefully, regarding them as in special need of care, that the members might become throughly established in the truth and taught to put forth earnest, unselfish efforts for those around them.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 6)
From a zealous persecutor of the followers of Christ, Paul became one of the Saviour’s most effective and devoted workers. Suddenly arrested in his career of persecution, he was given a view of the Saviour, and a complete transformation took place in him. Henceforth his life was wholly devoted to the Crucified One. Afterward, when engaged in service for Christ, he would relate, in the power of the Spirit, the way in which he had been converted. So impressive were his words that those only who were filled with the bitterest hatred against the Christian religion could withstand them.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 7)
Paul was a safe expositor of doctrine. He was often in vision, yet he did not relate what he saw, but worked it out in his life.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 8)
Paul’s calling demanded from him service of varied kinds—working with his hands to earn his living, traveling from place to place, establishing churches, writing letters to the churches already established. Yet in the midst of these varied labors, he declared, “This one thing I do.” [Philippians 3:13.] One thing he kept steadfastly before him in all his work—to be faithful to Christ who, when he was blaspheming His name and using every means in his power to make others blaspheme it, had revealed Himself to him. The one great purpose of his life was to serve and honor Him whose name had once filled him with contempt. His one desire was to win souls to the Saviour. Jew and Gentile might oppose and persecute him, but nothing could turn him from his purpose.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 9)
Writing to the Philippians, he describes this experience before and after his conversion. “If any man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh,” he says, “I more; circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law,a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is of the law, blameless.” [Verses 4-6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 10)
But a change came in his life. On his way to Damascus to persecute the followers of Christ, he was suddenly stopped. Christ revealed Himself to him. Henceforth his testimony was:
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 11)
“Yea, verily, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord; for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but refuse, that I may gain Christ, and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own, even that which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith.” [Verses 8, 9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 12)
The righteousness that heretofore he had thought of so much worth was now worthless in his sight. The longing of his soul was: “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death; if by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect; but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended; but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” [Verses 10-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 13)
To know Christ and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His suffering—this was the one aim and purpose of his life.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 14)
“Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded; and if in anything ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 15)
“Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ; whose end is destruction,” whose god is indulgence of appetite, “whose glory is their shame, who mind earthly things. For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ; who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself.” [Verses 15-21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 16)
The Christian life is a battle and a march. The warfare is unceasing. With earnest, determined effort we must constantly oppose the forces of the enemy.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 17)
I am in earnest, Brother Butler, in urging you not to become discouraged. Move steadily forward in the path of duty, and leave the consequences with God. The enemy is working in the hearts of some who profess to be Christians. Some who have been connected with our institutions have failed to meet the requirements of God. But as you bear your testimony and preach the Word, you must not keep your eyes fastened on the things that are seen. Look to the things that are not seen. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 18)
Because circumstances change and disappointment comes, because you did not receive as much help as you hoped to receive for the building up of the work that has been so long delayed, you are not to become disheartened. Take it to the Lord in prayer. I know that you have done this in sincerity of heart, and yet I know how deeply you must feel the lack of comprehension on the part of the churches. I know that the lack of hearty co-operation makes you heartsick and makes your burdens much heavier. But all that you can do is to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 19)
Mark one thing, my brother. Never fail to show that there is a marked difference between the one who serves God and the one who serves Him not. The “no difference” doctrine has not the slightest foundation in the Word of God. There is a decided difference between Christ’s disciples and worldlings. Satan comes with the merciful story that God is love. Yes; God is love, but He will not excuse wilful disregard of His commands. His word is Yea and Amen. He declares that He will honor those who honor Him, exalting Him by a faithful observance of the day which He has set apart as holy.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 20)
God has not left His requirements indefinite. The enactments of His government are such that men do not escape, even in this life, the consequences of disloyalty. His government takes cognizance of the whole of a man’s life. Man’s conduct in this world decides his eternal destiny. As he has sown, so he must reap. Sooner or later after the sowing comes the reaping. Even in this life men receive good or evil, according to their deeds. Cause must be followed by effect.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 21)
At the great day of judgment every case will be forever decided. God will so present the justice of heaven’s laws that the nothingness of man’s false theories will be plainly seen. To every deed done there are unseen, heavenly witnesses. Men will be judged according to the light and the privileges they have had and will be rewarded or punished according to their works. Men may reason and make assertions, but this will not change anything that is written in the books of heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 22)
The things which God commissioned John to send to the churches are not to be set aside as idle tales while speculations regarding what will be in the future life are brought in. God has never revealed just what will be in the future life, neither has He authorized any one to bring in theories regarding this subject. The salvation of souls does not depend on such theories. Yet precious time is given to the discussion of such subjects as whether children will be born in the new earth, while vital, important truths are passed over and neglected. Let our people remember that on subjects regarding which God has not spoken, silence is eloquence. “What think ye of Christ?” [Matthew 22:42.] This is the all-important question for every one to answer. Do you receive Him as a personal Saviour? To all who receive Him He gives power to become sons of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 107, 1904, 23)
Lt 109, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 3, 1904 Previously unpublished. My dear son Willie,—
Thank you for your letter which came in the noon mail today. I am always glad to get a letter from you, even though it be only a few lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 1)
I shall make no comments on your business arrangements; for I could not speak intelligently. My prayer is that the Lord will direct you at every step. Remember that the sanitarium to be established will be one of the most effective means of breaking down prejudice. It will be well, therefore,for this work to be set in operation as soon as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 2)
I have not written much of late. I overtaxed my brain by writing so continuously and by bearing constantly on my brain so many burdens, and recently I have had considerable difficulty with my head.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 3)
A week ago last Sabbath I spoke to the St. Helena church. I had freedom in speaking, but the air in the room was not good. I took every care, after reaching home, to guard against catching cold, and I was much pleased at my supposed success. But in a day or two a heavy cold settled on me, and I have not been able to do much writing since. I want to write; for I have much on my mind. I have taken some treatment, and I think that I am better. I am guarding myself carefully and hope to be quite well again in a few days. It is my head that will not work, and though I long to be able to lay off the burden by writing out what is in my mind, I have to give up. I have written some on the days that I felt best.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 4)
We shall see you again soon, I hope. I may not be able to go to the Healdsburg meeting; for nothing could induce me, in my present condition of health, to run any risks. But I am making every arrangement to go and hope to be able to.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 5)
But unless I have clear light, I shall not move to Washington to take up burdens. I am quite settled on this point. It will be best for me to stay here until I am thoroughly rested.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 6)
When people come to me with their difficulties, I point them higher, to the One 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 soul. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] The invitation stands out clear and distinct and positive. I shall not dishonor my Lord by encouraging people to come to me for counsel when they have a standing invitation to go to the One who is able to carry them and all their burdens.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 7)
My interest in the work in Washington is not in the slightest degree lessened. But I desire my brethren to know that their strength lies in taking their burdens to the great Burden Bearer. God confers honor on those who come to Him and ask Him for help, in faith believing that they will receive. Human help is feeble. But we may unite in seeking the Lord for His help and favor. Divine power is infallible. Let us come to God, soliciting the guidance of His Spirit. Let our united prayers ascend to the throne of grace. Let our requests be mingled with praise and thanksgiving.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 8)
We have a divine audience to which to present our requests. Then let nothing prevent us from offering our petitions in the name of Jesus, believing with unwavering faith that God hears us and that He will answer us. Let us carry our difficulties to God, humbling ourselves before Him. There is a great work to be done, and while we may counsel together, we must be very sure to counsel with God; for He will never mislead us. We are not to make flesh our arm. If we do, depending upon human help, human guidance, unbelief will steal in, and faith will die.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 9)
It is almost dark, and I must stop writing just where I am. All through February, and thus far in March, the weather has been cloudy and wet. Today a gentle mist has been falling, but there has been no rain.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 10)
My heart is filled with thankfulness that I am here in my quiet home, not tortured by the strife of tongues and human opinions. Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, I am happy and at peace. I will praise the Lord; I will give glory to His holy name.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 11)
May God bless you abundantly, is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 109, 1904, 12)
Lt 111, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 13, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in UL 86; VSS 341-342; 2MCP 539. + Dear Brother Butler,—
I write to you as one whom I know the Lord will lead and bless. I wish to tell you that the fewer burdens you take upon yourself regarding the work in Battle Creek, the better. Neither you nor I is called to bear the burdens of the work there. Some of those at the head of the work in Battle Creek seem to think that the apparent prosperity of the work there is a contradiction of the testimonies that have been given. They seem to think that the need for these testimonies has been flatly denied by the recent revival among the young people there.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 1)
Let me tell you how the matter was presented to me before the Oakland General Conference. I saw that those who came to Battle Creek to connect with the work there knew little regarding the general situation of affairs. They did not know of the beginnings which have brought about the things which have taken place.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 2)
I was instructed by the Lord that we must furnish ministerial help for the work in Battle Creek, that the youth there might not be drawn into the snare of the enemy. Workers of the best talent possible should be sent there—men prepared to understand the situation and to realize the peril of working away from the truth as it is in Jesus. Men who were as firm as a rock to principle were to put on the armor and go to work in Battle Creek, in humility and contrition, and in the love and fear of God, presenting the Word of the Lord so distinctly that, notwithstanding the forbidding features of the situation, those assembled at Battle Creek should receive instruction in the truth for this time, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. The youth were to be given every spiritual advantage possible. Notwithstanding the mistakes made by those who have not worked out God’s appointed plan, a true knowledge of the word was now to be presented, not as a dead letter, but as a living reality.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 3)
All would be helped by ministerial labor, by the opening of the Scriptures. Advantage must be taken of circumstances. Tact must be shown, that those in Battle Creek might be interested and impressed. A simple, heartfelt exposition of truth will reach hearts, exerting a powerful influence for good. I saw that if all worked wisely, great good would be done, and the enemy would be defeated. Christ says, “Without Me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] But with Him as our helper, we can gain the victory over the enemy. His promise is, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 4)
In every place the shepherds of the Lord are to look perseveringly after the sheep of His pasture. If they are humble, contrite men, the Lord will certainly be with them as they do their all-important work, pointing out the pillars of our faith, and calling upon the people to take a firm stand upon the Rock of Ages, the only foundation that will endure.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 5)
Scripture is the key that unlocks Scripture. The suppositions of men are worthless. Great care is to be exercised, lest human fallacies be brought in. Every student is to be educated to give a clear exposition of the Word, according to the example Christ has given in His teaching. He said nothing to gratify curiosity or to stimulate selfish ambition. He did not deal in abstract theories, but in that which is essential to the development of character; that which will enlarge man’s capacity for knowing God, and increase his power to do good. He spoke of those truths that relate to the conduct of life and that unite man with eternity. We read that the common people heard Him gladly. The people “were astonished at His teaching; for His word was with power.” [Luke 4:32.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 6)
We need not tax our minds for some far-fetched explanation of the words of Scripture. Thus the Jewish teachers did. They quoted the ideas and traditions of the rabbis, confusing the minds of their hearers. They taught for doctrine the commandments of men. We are not to seek for revelations that have not been made in the Word of God. In the simplicity of Christ we are to present the plain teaching of the Bible. Men in high positions of trust in the world will be charmed by a plain, straightforward, scriptural statement of truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 7)
I have been instructed that the churches have not been advancing in a knowledge of the truth for this time, but that if the teachers of truth will take up the work clearly marked out in the Scriptures, the feet of many will be planted firmly on the platform of eternal truth. Many will know more than ever before of the truth that has been given for these last days.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 8)
Some time ago I wrote in my diary the following:
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 9)
“We seemed to be assembled in a meeting. One of authority was present. He said: ‘Say to ministers and evangelists, Carry the work forward with true spirituality. Make the application that is made in the Word of God, that the result may not be merely a sympathetic stirring of the feelings—a result that will fade away into nothingness when the impression is removed.’ I am commissioned to say that all who see their need can be helped. Let every step taken be a step of advancement toward genuine conversion, toward unreserved consecration of heart, mind, soul, and strength to the service of the Lord. Let all that is done tend to genuine reformation in thought, in word, in deed, in character building. Let the true be discerned from the false. Do not allow the enemy to lead you to weave wrong figures into the pattern. Keep the love of Christ prominent before the children and youth. Repeat to them often His simple lessons.”
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 10)
I have written this out more clearly in one of my diaries, but I cannot go through them now to find it. But let me tell you, I have been watching for the sign of genuine repentance among those whose faith, by their own course of action, has been almost extinguished. I have been waiting for them to be reconverted. O that the message that has reached the youth might reach those whose feet have been standing in slippery places. Will these men, whose course of action has been often reproved, and who have hardened their hearts, make no sign of humiliation and repentance and true conversion? Will they stand where they are until another test and proving shall come? Much of the experience with which they have been carrying on their character building is not to the praise and glory of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 11)
I am bidden to say, Unless those who by hardening their hearts have made it necessary for God to speak by fire shall repent and be converted, they will be found wanting. They need to reveal in their lives that they have accepted the invitation, “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.] God cannot accept them unless they learn Christ’s meekness and lowliness. They need to have an experimental knowledge that Christ’s yoke is easy and His burden is light.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 12)
The Touch of Faith
“If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” [Matthew 9:21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 13)
It was a poor woman who uttered these words—a woman who for twelve years had suffered from a disease that made her life a burden. We do not know that this poor woman had any special culture, but we do know that for a long time she had been refined in the furnace of affliction.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 14)
She had spent all her means upon physicians and remedies, only to be pronounced incurable. But her hopes revived as she heard of the great Healer, and she thought, “If only I could get near enough [to] Him to speak to Him, I might be healed.” She had genuine faith, and the result shows.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 15)
Christ was on His way to the home of the Jewish rabbi who had entreated Him to come and heal his daughter. The heart-broken petition, “My little daughter lieth at the point of death; I pray Thee, come and lay Thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live,” had touched the tender, sympathetic heart of Christ, and He had at once set out with the ruler for his home. [Mark 5:23, 24.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 16)
They advanced but slowly; for the crowd pressed Christ on every side. In making His way through the multitude, the Saviour came near to where the afflicted woman was standing. Again and again she had tried to get near to Him, but had failed. Now her golden opportunity had come. She could see no way of speaking to Him. She would not seek to hinder His slow advance. She would not, in the presence of the multitude, speak a word to arrest His attention. But she had heard that healing came from a touch of His garments. Fearful of losing her one chance of relief, she pressed forward, saying to herself, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” [Matthew 9:21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 17)
Christ knew every thought of her mind, and He was making His way to where she stood. He realized her great need, and He was helping her to exercise faith and hope.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 18)
As He was passing, she reached forward and succeeded in barely touching the border of His garment. That moment she knew that she was healed. Her faith was centered not in the robe, but in Him who wore the robe. In that one touch was concentrated the faith of her life, and instantly her pain and feebleness disappeared. Instantly she felt the thrill as of an electric current passing through every fibre of her being. There came over her a sensation of perfect health. “Straightway ... she felt in her body that she was healed of the plague.” [Mark 5:29.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 19)
She desired to express her thanks to the One mighty to save, whose virtue had done more for her in one touch than the physicians had done in twelve long years; but she dared not. With a grateful heart she tried to withdraw from the crowd. Suddenly Jesus stopped, and turning round, He asked, “Who touched Me?” Looking at Him with amazement, Peter answered, “Master, the multitude throng Thee, and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” Jesus answered, “Somebody hath touched Me; for I perceive that virtue is gone out of Me.” [Luke 8:45, 46.] He could distinguish the touch of faith from the casual contact of the careless throng. Some one had touched Him with a deep purpose and had received answer.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 20)
Christ did not ask the question for His own information. He had a lesson for the people, for the disciples, and for the woman. He wished to inspire the afflicted with faith and hope. He sought to show that it was faith which had brought the healing power. The record of this miracle was to come down through the ages to show that He honors the act of faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 21)
Christ wished to let the woman know that He did not impart His healing virtue unconsciously. Her trust should not be passed by without comment. God must be glorified by her grateful confession.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 22)
Looking toward the woman, Jesus insisted on knowing who had touched Him. Finding concealment vain, she came forward tremblingly, and cast herself at His feet. With grateful tears she told Him, before all the people, why she had mingled with the crowd, why she had touched His garment, and how she had been immediately healed.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 23)
She feared that perhaps her act in touching His garment had been one of presumption, but no word of censure came from Christ’s lips. He spoke only words of approval. They came from a heart of love, filled with sympathy for human woe. “Daughter,” He said gently, “be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” [Verse 48.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 24)
How precious were His words to her! Now no fear that she had given offense embittered her joy. Christ desired her to understand that He approved her act of faith. He would not have her depart with a half blessing only. She was not to remain in ignorance of His knowledge of her suffering, in ignorance of His compassionate love, and of His approval of her faith in His power to save to the uttermost all who come to Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 25)
O precious Redeemer! Whenever Thou art received, decided changes take place in the life. Let us pray for the healing power of the greatest missionary that the world has ever known. O that the Saviour were formed within the hearts of those who in this their day do not know the meaning of entire consecration and sanctification of body, soul, and spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 26)
During all His life on this earth, from childhood to manhood, Christ’s mission was to bring light and joy and grace to others. It was His desire that the hearts of all should be filled with His joy. His days were filled with deeds of mercy and compassion. He was often weary. His human nature called for rest. But he had little opportunity to rest. The children of sorrow and affliction thronged His steps. They would not be deterred, knowing that if they could come to where He was, they would not seek in vain for help. Had not He Himself given them their lesson? Had He not said:
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 27)
“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. Or what man is there of you, whom 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?” [Matthew 7:7-11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 28)
Those who are humble and contrite, those who cultivate a spirit of tender compassion, will understand what it means to be one with Christ in God.
(19LtMs, Lt 111, 1904, 29)
Lt 111a, 1904
Butler, G. I. NP May 9, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in RY 23-24. Elder G. I. Butler,—
The time has come when we must not give our consent for our young people to be called to Battle Creek. They should receive a different spiritual discipline from that which they would receive in Battle Creek. Satan’s working in Eden is ever before me. Unless we follow a firm, straightforward course, souls will be lost.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 1)
There is in this age a growing knowledge that is dangerous to piety and to faith in the truth. There are various phases of truth that do not decidedly affect the salvation of the soul. Whether a man accepts them or not is of little account. One views them in one way and one in another. But there are truths which declare what every one must do in order to be saved. Men may know the truth in theory and yet, neglecting to practice it, may be lost. Only those who have an experimental knowledge of the truth can be saved.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 2)
I have confidence in you, my brother, and I do not want you to take the wrong side on questions that mean so much just now. As you come to the meeting at Berrien Springs, come leaning on no man’s judgment, but on the Word of the living God.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 3)
Brother Butler, let us—you and Brother and Sister Haskell, Brother Daniells and Brother Prescott, and I—unite to strengthen one another. If those at the head of the work will unite to fulfil the requirements of God, to be one in all matters of truth, God will greatly bless them.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 4)
Brother Daniells made a mistake at Nashville, but he has acknowledged this mistake. If we keep this error in our minds, more ready to judge and condemn our brother than to strengthen and help him, we shall hinder the cause of God. We must not be suspicious when we know—and I do know—that the Lord has chosen Brother Daniells and Brother Prescott as men of opportunity to do His work in certain lines. These men have in their hearts to love and strengthen and support you and Brother and Sister Haskell. I hear nothing but good words from their lips about you and Edson and Brother and Sister Haskell.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 5)
If you will all pull together, the blessing of God will certainly be with you, to cheer and uplift. You are to hold fast to Christ and to your brethren. Do not judge Elder Daniells by appearances or by what you think he ought to do. Put yourself in his place. A great many letters come to him, telling of the needs of different places. He has to consider prayerfully the necessities of each case and send help first to the place where the need is greatest. Were you in his place, you might not do as well as he has done to answer the many calls that come for means and workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 6)
Men should be appointed to visit our churches and camp-meetings and solicit means for the enterprises needing help. Elder Daniells can not do this work. It belongs to other men.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 7)
Let not God’s workers watch for faults in their fellow men. All ye are brethren. Many times I have known brethren experienced and highly esteemed, when making a mistake, to be spoken to thus: “I told you so, and now, you see, the matter is working out as I said it would.” But the one who had made the mistake needed encouragement, not censure. He may feel very deeply over the blunder he has made. The Lord loves him and pardons him. The mistakes of the one who blames him may be far greater than his. We are to love as brethren. A brother’s mistake is [not] always to have a place in our minds, to be thought of [as a] triumph, [for] that brings no strength to the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 8)
I know how Elder Daniells and Elder Prescott stand. I know they have many trials and difficulties to meet. I have confidence in them because when they have been reproved for their mistakes, they have acknowledged them. At one time Elder Daniells did hinder the work by a lack of faith, but we went right on doing our best and did not refer to the blunder. Afterward, when Elder Daniells saw his mistake, he referred to it with great regret. Once he said, “You saved my soul by not saying anything to me of my error before I righted myself. I was so sore over my error that if you had said anything, I fear I should not have taken it kindly. O how grateful I felt to you for your patience and your words of encouragement.”
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 9)
Brother Butler, let us—you and Brother Haskell and I—grow old gracefully. [God] desires you to stand for Him as a light-bearer. Let us encourage one another. I am given messages to bear to the erring, but because of this, I do not lose my interest in the one reproved, but continue to encourage him.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 10)
“Love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.” [1 Peter 3:8.] We need now, just now, the impartation of the Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus has much to bear in dealing with us. He is hurt when we hurt one another. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren,” He says, “ye have done it unto Me.” [Matthew 25:40.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 11)
I have a message to bear for my ministering brethren. The Lord calls upon you to love one another as Christ has loved you. Cease your censuring and draw together in harmony. Respond to the invitation, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me.” [Matthew 11:29.] Christ has pledged Himself to renovate the soul through the influence of sacred truth. This truth, received into the heart, will soften and subdue, refine and purify. The outworking of this truth in the life gives evidence of the transforming power of the grace of Christ. It brings a wisdom that is divine in its healing strength. This is life eternal—to know God and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. All other knowledge is inferior to this.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 12)
Christ is working continually to help and strengthen His ministers. By His Spirit He seeks to change the heart and bring the powers of the whole man into harmony with His will. To all who receive Him, He gives power to become the sons of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 13)
My brother, shall we not be laborers together with God? That we may accomplish the work given us, He promises us power that we can scarcely comprehend it. He promises to bring us from darkness into light. Until this is done, the soul is not free. He will change enmity to love and impurity to purity. By taking the things of heaven and showing them to the soul, He will make men and women sons and daughters of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 14)
This world, then, is our school, in which we are to prepare for heaven. Even when we are old and grey-haired, we are given lessons to learn. By beholding Christ, we are to be changed into His image. We shall not be pronounced complete until the whole being is conformed to the likeness of the perfect pattern.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 15)
“If ye abide in me, ... whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:7, 14.] This is the science of salvation. May God help us to make it a part of our lives, that we may grow in grace and in a knowledge of the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 16)
Let us keep contention and envy and evil surmising out of our hearts. It is these things that keep so many of our church members in bondage. They allow their thoughts to dwell upon the defects of others and magnify little matters to great proportions. Let us educate ourselves to praise God instead of censuring our fellow beings. The Lord is pleased and glorified when He sees His children controlled by the Holy Spirit. Then shall we not cast Satan out of our hearts. Shall not the followers of Christ rejoice in Him? When the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Pentecost, the whole church was filled with light. Praise and thanksgiving to God ascended from every heart. Today Christ is to be the chief object in all our thoughts; all our words and deeds are to express our thanksgiving for His love and mercy.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 17)
The Saviour’s life is before us. It is our pattern. In all that we do, we are to seek the good of others. We are not to speak ill, but well of one another. When mistakes are made, these are not to be made the object of general conversation. Christ’s direction is, “Tell him his fault between thee and him alone.” [Matthew 18:15.] “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, and ye shall be healed.” [James 5:16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 18)
Christ looks with sadness upon the church in which bickering and strife find place. The spirit of the enemy is harbored, and the Spirit of God cannot enter. Satan has his workshop in heart and mind, and the words that are spoken dishonor God.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 19)
Shall we not dismiss the enemy and let the peace of God rule in our hearts? We need to enter more deeply into the meaning of the science of Christianity. We need to make an entire consecration of body, soul, and spirit to God. Then we shall be able to work in a way that will honor Him. In the place of complaining and finding fault, let us offer to God the prayer, “Teach me Thy way.” [Psalm 27:11.] Let each one submit to the cleansing of the Holy Spirit. Let those who have given way to evil thinking and evil speaking show sincere repentance. God cannot use those who find fault and criticize others.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 20)
In the Scriptures, Christ is represented as walking in the midst of His churches. The divine presence is in our churches everywhere. Christ is ministering to His servants. The truth for this time is to be proclaimed by lips touched with a live coal from the divine altar. Our church members, reconverted, are to help the ministers. God’s servants have their appointed work, and those who criticize and censure them know not what they are doing. They bear the message of heaven, and they are to be helped by the prayers and faith of God’s people.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 21)
The aged ministers are to be carefully and tenderly treated. We cannot spare one of them. The Lord would have them help one another and rejoice in Him. These tried warriors are to strengthen the faith of the people of God by relating their experience in connection with the building up of His work.
(19LtMs, Lt 111a, 1904, 22)
Lt 113, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 14, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Butler,—
Christ has linked you to Himself. He has given you a testimony for His people. But you must not overwork. I know how you feel. You see so much to be done that you desire to arouse every soul to meet the emergency. I have the same desire, and my endeavors to do what I have seen needed to be done have nearly killed me. Do not despond, but take your burdens to the great Physician, the Healer of soul and body.
(19LtMs, Lt 113, 1904, 1)
I have written more today than I have for two or three weeks. I have written the letter of ten pages that I am sending you and a letter of six pages to Edson. But for several weeks my mind has seemed to be almost locked up. My overburdened brain has refused to bear the least taxation. As I have seen how many are in the Laodicean state, I have been so keenly disappointed, and my heart has been so greatly pained, that I have feared for my life.
(19LtMs, Lt 113, 1904, 2)
I have words of comfort for you, my brother. The Lord is acquainted with your intense, earnest desire to see the work of God advancing in right lines. But you can only do your work. You cannot make another do that which he has no sense of his need of doing. You cannot make those who are neither cold nor hot heed the message that God has sent them. Bear your message, and then lay your burdens at the feet of Jesus, saying, “I can do no more.” I say to you now, “Arise in the strength of God, and Christ will give you His joy, that your joy may be full. Talk courage, talk faith, and never, never become discouraged. Look to the mighty Healer. His touch and His words of courage are for you.”
(19LtMs, Lt 113, 1904, 3)
May the Lord make you of good courage and fill your heart with hope and joy, is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 113, 1904, 4)
Lt 115, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 14, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in GH 03/1904. My dear children Edson and Emma,—
I should very much like to see you, but at present this cannot be. I should like to hear from Emma.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 1)
I have just been reading The Watchman. I am much interested in the experiences of those who are working in the Southern field. We hope that all such experiences will be used in the paper. Those in charge of the paper should make the most of them.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 2)
Be of good courage, my children. The Lord is a present help in every time of need. I know that in the Southern field there are many perplexities. But you have a Helper who sees and knows all about the working of the enemy.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 3)
We must do our work with cheerfulness and hopefulness. We are in no case to become discouraged. Let us keep our eyes off the disagreeable parts of our experience, and let our words be full of good cheer. We can surround ourselves with a sunny atmosphere or with an atmosphere charged with gloom. Let us educate ourselves to talk courage. Let us learn lessons from the example of Christ. Not even His terrible humiliation at the hands of the Jews and the Roman soldiers—His mock trial and the cruel treatment that He received—caused Him to become discouraged.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 4)
After His resurrection, Christ met with His disciples in Galilee. At the time appointed, about five hundred disciples were assembled on the mountainside. Suddenly Jesus stood among them. No one could tell whence or how He came. Many who were present had never before seen Him; but in His hands and feet they beheld the marks of the crucifixion; His countenance was as the face of God, and when they saw Him, they worshiped Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 5)
But some doubted. So it will ever be. There are those who find it hard to exercise faith, and they place themselves on the doubting side. These lose much because of their unbelief. If they would control their feelings, and refuse to allow doubt to bring a shadow over their own minds and the minds of others, how much happier and more helpful they would be. They close the door to many blessings that they might enjoy if they would refuse to place themselves on the doubting side and would, instead, talk hope and courage.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 6)
“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” [Matthew 28:18.] The conditions of the atonement had been fulfilled; the work for which Christ came to this world had been accomplished. He was on His way to the throne of God, to be honored by angels, principalities, and powers. Clothed with boundless authority, He gave His commission to the disciples, “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.” [Verses 19, 20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 7)
Do we believe these words? If we do, let us show our faith in them. Let us never forget the words, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” [Verse 18.] Shall we act as if we had been left orphans in this world? Shall we not, rather, take God at His word, in every perplexity looking to Him for aid? Shall we not show our faith by our works? We have a right to claim the legacy that Christ has left us. He has promised power to every soul who works in faith and love and truth, believing the promise.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 8)
When the time came for Christ to ascend to His Father, He led the disciples out as far as Bethany. Here He paused, and they gathered about Him. With hands outstretched in blessings, and as if in assurance of His protecting care, He slowly ascended from among them. “It came to pass, while He blessed them, He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.” [Luke 24:51.]
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 9)
“And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Verses 52, 53.]
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 10)
Read the account of Christ’s ascension as given in the book of Acts. It is full of encouragement for us.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 11)
“Being assembled together” with the disciples, Christ “commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith He, ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. When they therefore were come together, they asked of Him, saying, Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And He said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power. But 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 part of the earth.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 12)
“And when He had spoken these things, while they beheld, He was taken up; and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And, while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:4-11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 13)
“Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a Sabbath day’s journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brethren.” [Verses 12-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 14)
“And with His brethren.” [Verse 14.] These had lost much because of their unbelief. They had been among the number who doubted when Jesus appeared in Galilee. But they now firmly believed that Jesus was the Son of God, the promised Messiah. Their faith was established.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 15)
Notice particularly the sixth and seventh verses. “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power.” It was not necessary for them to see further into the future than the revelations of Christ enabled them to see. They were to proclaim the gospel message. But neither they nor those to whom they ministered would receive any benefit from dwelling on speculative theories.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 16)
“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.” [Verse 8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 17)
These words, in all their solemn importance, come sounding down along the line to our time. God’s people today are to seek for power from on high, that they may understand the breadth of their mission. May God help us to realize that the burden of our work is to bear witness to the truth. But the teachers of truth can do their work acceptably only as self is crucified and selfishness is purged from their hearts. They are to purify themselves even as Christ is pure. When they understand fully the meaning of the prayer recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John, they will be so closely united with Christ that there will be no place in their minds for the speculative theories that spring out of nothingness and end in nothingness.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 18)
Our workers are not to spend their time in teaching what will be in the new earth. Let them devote every capability and power to the question, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” [Mark 10:17.] Let them discard the cheap, foolish ideas which arise from curiosity, which Satan places in minds to lead to spiritual adultery.
(19LtMs, Lt 115, 1904, 19)
Lt 117, 1904
White, J. E. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 15, 1904 Previously unpublished. My dear Son Edson,—
Yesterday my brain permitted me to write. I wrote twenty pages. There were other things that I hoped to write you, but I cannot do much today, so that the letter I am sending you is not completed. You may use any portions of the letters that I send you in The Watchman.
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 1)
Please have The Watchman sent, at my expense, to the following names:
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 2)
Mrs. Mary P. Foss, Harrison, Maine, c/o Mrs. Allen Atkin.
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 3)
Mr. John Foss, West Minot, Maine.
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 4)
Mr. Iram James, Sanitarium, California.
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 5)
Mr. Leininger, St. Helena, California.
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 6)
I cannot write more tonight. Will write again soon.
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 7)
Your Mother.
(19LtMs, Lt 117, 1904, 8)
Lt 119, 1904
Wessels, J. J. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 1, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 54-55. + Mr. J. J. Wessels My dear Brother,—
I received your letter some time ago. It found me so brain-weary that I could not write without overtaxing my head. I will now try to answer your letter.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 1)
My brother, I pray that the Lord may help you to help your mother’s family. Do not allow your interest in them to lessen. When you are perplexed and troubled, remember that the way through which to receive help is always open. Take your troubles to the Lord in prayer. Daily receive light and grace from Him who knows all about the temptations that beset human beings. Let the light that shines upon you shine forth from you to all with whom you associate.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 2)
You are not to be blended with the world, molded after its similitude. You can so rest your soul on the Saviour, in complete submission, that you will grow in grace and the love of God to the full stature of a man in Christ. Do not allow yourself to be drawn away from Jesus into temptation. Learn constantly of Him—this is your safeguard, your assurance, your happiness. He came to this world that you might have peace and joy in Him, that you might rest in the realization of His power to save to the uttermost all who come to Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 3)
Christ declares, “I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without Me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in Me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.” [John 15:5, 6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 4)
Abiding in Christ, then, is the condition of fruit-bearing. Only as we are united with Him can we accomplish any good work. Without Him, separate from Him, we can do nothing good. In order to have success in the Christian life, it is essential that we realize our continual dependence on the vital current that comes from Christ. We are habitually to adhere to Him and daily to derive from Him the nourishment that will give us spiritual life. It is our privilege to abide in Him, giving diligent heed to His words. These words are spirit and light and life. They make the children of God joyful in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 5)
Mark the following words; for they mean much to you and to those with whom you associate:
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 6)
“If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [Verse 7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 7)
Is not this a positive promise, upon which you may rely? Bring these words into your daily experience, and your faith in Jesus will be a living reality. There is no reason why you should not receive, hour by hour, the fulfilment of this promise.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 8)
“Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples.” [Verse 8.] Neither you nor your mother and brothers and sisters need misunderstand these words. Let your hearts practice them in the daily life, and you will enjoy the blessing that always comes from obedience to them. Hold the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. Then, day by day, you will realize the fulfilment of the promises made by the great Teacher. Hear, and receive, and obey. Let the words of Christ enter into the intents and purposes of your hearts.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 9)
“As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you; continue ye in My love. If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” [Verses 9, 10.] Who could misunderstand the terms of salvation here given. Where could you find simpler, clearer, more valuable knowledge than is here revealed? My brother, these precious words are spoken to you and to the other members of the Wessels family. You need not fail of comprehending them.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 10)
“These things have I spoken unto you that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [Verse 11.] The joy that comes from any other source than Christ is valueless. It is a pretense, an emotion that brings no abiding satisfaction.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 11)
“This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth; but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain; that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you.” [Verses 12-16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 12)
We are to trust in the virtue of Christ’s merits. He has purchased us with His sinless life, and we are to appreciate the gift that the Father has bestowed on us in giving us His only begotten Son. We are to claim His promises and rest by faith in the knowledge of His sacrifice in our behalf. We must surrender unreservedly to Him; for His merits alone are of sufficient value to save the soul of the repenting, believing sinner.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 13)
Christ’s will is to become our will. Then the fruit that we bear in words and deeds will glorify God. We shall give evidence of our discipleship. The proof that we are children of God will be clearly seen. We shall be molded and fashioned in accordance with the divine similitude. But unless we place ourselves wholly under Christ’s control, we cannot bear evidence of a change of character.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 14)
As Christ’s disciples we are to be lights in the world, that men, by seeing our good works, may glorify our heavenly Father. As worldlings see the change from a life of sin to a life of holiness, they will be led to acknowledge the power of Christ’s grace.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 15)
Union with Christ is a noble principle, productive of all good through constant growth in grace.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 16)
Let church members bear in mind that the fact that their names are registered on the church books will not save them. They must show themselves approved of God, workmen that need not be ashamed. Day by day they are to build their characters in accordance with Christ’s directions. They are to abide in Him, constantly exercising faith in Him. Thus they will grow up to the full stature of wholesome, cheerful, grateful Christians led by God step by step into clearer and still clearer light.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 17)
I have a message for the members of the Wessels family. Our God is watching over the broad field of the world, and He calls upon the Wessels family to do their heaven-appointed work without delay. If they do not, they will be among the multitude whose voices will soon be raised in the bitter lamentation: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and my soul is not saved. Why did I not flee to the stronghold for refuge! Why have I trifled with my soul’s salvation, and done despite to the spirit of grace!” [See Jeremiah 8:20; Hebrews 10:29.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 18)
Those who have bowed to the idols of the world will gain no comfort from them in that great day when every one is rewarded or punished according to his works. But Omnipotence will deal justly. Those who have made Christ their refuge will find that He lives and that He is conqueror. He will be their defense.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 19)
God calls upon all to take a decided stand for the right. The Spirit of God is striving with the members of the Wessels family, encouraging those who will listen to His voice to work in an opposite direction from that in which they have been working. But conformity to the world is placing some of them where, unless they change, they will receive a heavier condemnation than if they had never received the message of present truth. I call upon them to awake and turn from worldly ambition and selfish indulgence. The Saviour is still inviting them: “Come unto Me, and I will give you rest and peace and light.” Will they heed His voice, or will they dally, and at last perish with the wicked? I entreat them to come out from the world and be separate.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 20)
“Behold, I come quickly,” Christ says, “and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.... I Jesus have sent Mine angel to testify unto you 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 22:12-14, 16, 17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 21)
My brethren, will you not act like sensible men who realize what is soon to come on the world? Do not say, “Lord, what shall this man do?” [John 21:21.] Let every one seek the Lord for himself. Eternity is before us. You cannot afford to let another day pass without taking your position on the Lord’s side. Will you not act the part that God has appointed you to act in the closing scenes of this earth’s history?
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 22)
It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who will be alive on the earth when past woes and celestial glory will be blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By the means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles; for Satan would counterfeit any miracle that might be worked. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:13-18. They are to take their stand on the living Word—“It is written.” This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without hope and without God in the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 23)
The worshipers of God will be especially distinguished by their regard for the fourth commandment—since this is the sign of His creative power and the witness to His claim upon man’s reverence and homage. The wicked will be distinguished by their efforts to tear down the Creator’s memorial, to exalt the institution of Rome. In the issue of the contest, all Christendom will be divided into two great classes—those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark. Although church and state will unite their power to compel “all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond” to receive the mark of the beast, yet the people of God will not receive it. [Revelation 13:16.] The prophet of Patmos beholds “them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God,” and singing the song of Moses and the Lamb. [Revelation 15:2, 3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 24)
Fearful tests and trials await the people of God. The spirit of war is stirring the nations from one end of the earth to the other. But in the midst of the time of trouble that is coming—a time of trouble such as has not been since there was a nation—God’s chosen people will stand unmoved. Satan and his angels cannot destroy them; for angels that excel in strength will protect them.
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 25)
“After this, I beheld,” John writes, “and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; and cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.” [Revelation 7:9, 10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 26)
“And one of the elders answered saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes; and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said unto me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple; and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more; neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters; and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.” [Verses 13-17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 119, 1904, 27)
Lt 121, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 29, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 1888 1803-1810. + My dear Edson and Emma,—
I returned from Healdsburg yesterday and was in the train nearly all day. We did not dare to drive over; for there has been so much rain that the road from here to Healdsburg is almost impassible. There has been no travel over the direct road for the past two weeks. All through the month of March we have had continuous rain, with the exception of one or two bright days.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 1)
I did not feel able to attend the Healdsburg meeting, but I went, nevertheless. We left home for Healdsburg Friday, March eighteen.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 2)
I spoke in the Healdsburg church Sabbath morning. I will send you a copy of the report of the sermon. The meeting house was crowded, and I had much freedom in speaking. All seemed to appreciate the words spoken. But the church is not well ventilated; it is impossible to obtain that thorough purification of the air that is essential to health. I felt while speaking that I was being injured by the poison of the many breaths, and I feared that I should not be able to carry my discourse through to the end. But I did, and I was blessed in the effort.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 3)
I took cold after speaking, and during the week my head ached, and I coughed a great deal. I took heavy treatment several times, and at the end of the week I was somewhat better.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 4)
The citizens of Healdsburg made the request that I should speak on Sunday afternoon, March 27, that they might hear me once more. Rain had fallen continuously through the week, and Sunday was rainy and disagreeable. I had been sick and under vigorous treatment ever since the Sabbath before; but I ventured out, though so weak that I could scarcely stand on my feet without assistance. As I looked at the large congregation gathered in the church, I felt fearful that I could not make them all hear. But the Lord strengthened me, and I spoke for over an hour from the first two chapters of Revelation. Those present were much interested and expressed themselves as being greatly benefited by the discourse. I saw tears running down more than one face.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 5)
Well, Sunday night I did not sleep after eleven o’clock. On Monday morning we left Healdsburg for St. Helena and passed safely through the many changes that must be made in coming from Healdsburg to St. Helena by way of Oakland. We reached home about eight o’clock. I took a hot bath and went to bed, but I did not sleep after eleven o’clock, and I rose at one.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 6)
There were some things that I meant to say concerning the work in the South during the meeting at Healdsburg, but I could not say them; for my head was so weary all the time. I only attended the two meetings of which I have spoken.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 7)
I had some talk with Elders Daniells and Prescott in regard to my visiting Washington, D.C. I told them that it had been a serious question with me whether I should leave home to make this trip. I told them also that should I go, I would not wish to spend more than a few months there unless, after seeing the situation, I should change my mind. If we decide to go, we shall be on our way in about two weeks.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 8)
In answer to your letter, I would say, Do not take up any new methods in connection with the company that you mention. Those whom you have named as the ones who would compose this company are not in that pure, holy, sanctified state that would give assurance of success. Wait patiently. If we decide to go to Washington, we shall attend the Lake Union Conference, which is to be held, I believe, at Berrien Springs. I hope to see you there. I hope that at this meeting, most earnest work will be done to set right many things.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 9)
The Lord has appointed Elder Butler and Elder Haskell and his wife to labor in the South, and there should be a proper union between you and them. Brother Wales would not be the best man for the work you mention. I hope that he and Brother Palmer will in the future have a more sanctified experience than they have had in the past. If they do not, neither of them will be conquerors.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 10)
I hope, Edson, that until clearer light is given, you will not carry out the plans spoken of in your letter to me. I am bidden not to encourage you to take this step; for you would deeply regret it if you did. Were I in your place, I would positively refuse to link up with the persons you have named. Will you not counsel with Brother Haskell and Brother Butler.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 11)
I have a word more to say to you. Will you not sign a pledge that you will no longer weaken or deface the Lord’s temple by working when you ought to rest. In order to have proper thoughts and in order to speak proper words, you must give your brain rest. You do not take sufficient time to rest. The weary brain and tired nerves would be invigorated if you would make a change in this respect. I wish that you and Emma could spend the summer with us here at St. Helena.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 12)
We must study to discipline ourselves carefully, refusing to do that which would weaken the physical, mental, and moral strength. You need a clear, patient mind, which will endure all that may arise. You need a strong hold from above. Exercise faith, and leave the results with God. When you have done your best, be of good courage. Believe, believe, and hold fast. The enemy will try to get you to make some move which means defeat, but you cannot afford to do this. You cannot afford to make uncertain movements. You need the influence that you will gain by revealing wisdom and discretion. The time will come when you will make movements similar to the one you propose, but it has not come yet.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 13)
Edson, the Lord does not want you to worry and fret over a state of things that you cannot help. He wants you to go on from strength to strength, and this you will do if you trustingly do your best. Learn a lesson of trust from the miracle of feeding the multitude with five loaves and two fishes. There were five thousand men, besides women and children, to be fed, and five loaves and two fishes were all that Christ had; yet there were gathered up, after all had been satisfied, twelve baskets full of fragments.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 14)
Edson and Emma, you must have Christ formed within, the hope of glory. Then that which before seemed to you but a meager supply will prove to be a rich feast. You will be satisfied yourselves, and you will have something to give to others. Walk humbly with Christ, daily learning the lesson of meekness and lowliness. Thus your heart will become a temple for the Holy Spirit, and nothing but God alone can fill a temple where God dwells.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 15)
Do not, I beg of you, look on the dark side. When the Israelites were content with the portion of manna that God gave, they found that it was sweet and full of nourishment for both [body] and soul. When they were dissatisfied, there were worms in the manna. Contentment is a blessing and discontent a curse.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 16)
My son, you need the peace of Christ. God is your Father. He would have you take more time to rest, that you may have a healthy spiritual experience. He loves you with a deep and tender love. O children, there are great things before us. Edson, do not allow your mind to become in any way diseased. God wants your mind to be clear, your temper sweet, and your love abounding. Then the peace that passeth knowledge with flow forth from you to bless all with whom you come into contact. The atmosphere surrounding your soul will be refreshing. Your words will be fragrant.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 17)
You need spiritual life. This life would give vigor to your soul and to your body. Spiritual life yields to its possessor that which all the world is seeking, but which can never be obtained without an entire surrender to God. You will have to say oftener than you have ever said, “Be still, and know that I am God.” [Psalm 46:10.] This will give your soul the needed rest. It will give you contentment in doing the very best you can.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 18)
Spiritual life—what is it? It is the contemplation of Him who loved us and gave Himself for us that our lives might be sweet and fragrant, that we might have power to perfect an unselfish Christian experience, and that from us others might learn to do good.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 19)
The work given you is to represent Christ. He came to this world to shed upon you His own brightness and peace. Close the windows of your heart against the atmosphere of unbelief, and open them heavenward. It is your privilege to face the light, to talk light and faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 20)
Be affable and compassionate. Let your countenance reflect the joy of the Lord. Speak of His goodness and tell of His power. Then your light will shine more and more distinctly. Above your trials and disappointments will be revealed the reflection of a pure, healthy religious life. In the outworking of the inner life there will be wonderful peace and joy. You may reflect the beauty of the character of your risen Lord, who, though He was rich, yet for our sake became poor, that through His poverty we might be made rich in the grace of heaven. As you rise above despondency into the clear sunlight of the presence of Christ, you will reveal the glory of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 21)
We can, we can reveal the likeness of our divine Lord. We can know the science of spiritual life. We can glorify God in our body and in our spirit, which are His. Do we do it? Oh, what an illustrious example we have in the life that Christ lived on this earth. He has shown us what we can accomplish through co-operation with Him. We are to seek for the union with Him of which He speaks when He says, “Abide in Me, and I in you.” [John 15:4.] This union is deeper, stronger, truer, than any other union. The heart must be filled with the grace of Christ. His will must control us, moving us by His love to suffer with those who suffer, to rejoice with those who rejoice, to feel a deep tenderness for every one in weakness, sorrow, or distress.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 22)
Being partakers of the divine nature will make us willing always to reach forth a helping hand to those in need of relief. Christ’s heart was ever touched with pity at the sight of human woe. He died on the cross of Calvary to lift from man the penalty of transgression. He came to our world to make it possible for sinful human beings to obtain salvation. He wept over the sorrow and suffering that He saw on every hand. He groaned in spirit in behalf of the tried and tempted, but He would not fail or become discouraged. He must believe and press forward in order to make it possible for them to gain eternal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 23)
Christ’s life on this earth is a perfect reflection of the divine law. In Him is life and hope and light. Behold Him, and you will become changed into the same likeness, from character to character.
(19LtMs, Lt 121, 1904, 24)
Lt 123, 1904
White, J. E. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 29, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MCP 103-104, 235, 318; 2MCP 466-467; HP 74, 164, 186, 231; MM 101-102; CTr 170; 8MR 334; 12MR 40. + My dear son Edson,—
Your letter is received. I have just had a conversation with Elder J. A. Burden, who has recently returned from Australia, and I will not read your letter till the morning; for I am weary. Meanwhile, I assure you that I am united with you in desiring to see the work in the South moving forward rapidly. Be careful not to make any move that will retard this work. There is much to be done; but the Lord would not have you or me fret our lives away and lose our faith and courage, because this work does not move as fast as we think it ought to. The Lord will help us if we will keep the word of His patience. I sometimes ask myself whether it can be my duty to go on writing the same things over and over again, just because our people will not heed what is already written. I do not wish to overtax myself and unbalance my mind by trying to perform impossibilities.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 1)
Let us encourage our hearts in hope. Let us pray much and quietly wait for the Lord to do His work. Let us do what we can in simplicity and with the grace of Christ, not exercising our powers in things too high for us.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 2)
April 1
Sara went to Oakland this morning to spend a few days with her sisters. Early this morning Walter Harper called, requesting an interview with me. I was obliged to refuse; for I had had an ill turn, and I felt that I must give my brain rest. Later in the day Willie told me that he was going to drive to St. Helena to hire some money from the bank to send to San Diego, and I said that I would drive down with him.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 3)
I think I have told you before about the sanitarium property about five miles out of San Diego, which we are trying to secure. We feel sure that sanitarium work ought to be established in this part of Southern California. For some time bath-room work was carried on in a small building in San Diego, which was once used as a saloon. A very good work was done, but the building was too small and the facilities too few for the work to be done that ought to be done. The sanitarium property that we are thinking of purchasing consists of a building of fifty rooms and twenty acres of land. The building was erected for sanitarium purposes, but has not been in use for several years. About two years ago it was offered to us for twelve thousand dollars; a year ago it was offered for eight thousand; and now Sister Gotzian and I are arranging to purchase it for five thousand dollars. We shall hold it ourselves only until we can arrange to place it in the hands of our brethren. We are also trying to secure an option on some property just across the road from the sanitarium. We think that when sanitarium work is established, this property can be divided up and sold at profitable prices. Thus we could obtain means for the furnishing of the sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 4)
We shall move very quietly and very surely, and we shall be certain that the business arrangements made are such as will stand.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 5)
While we were driving to St. Helena, we met Brother Harper, and we asked him to ride with us. He showed me a check for one hundred and twenty-five dollars, which he said he was going to send you on the sale of your books. Some time ago Brother Harper sent me ten dollars for the work. The other day I received ten dollars from a sister and one dollar from another sister. This makes twenty-one dollars. This money we have sent to you. I intend that all money coming into my hands in this way shall go to the Southern field; for I regard it as the most needy.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 6)
Resting in God’s Promises
Let us have a revival of our faith. My son, let us, you and me, set an example of doing our best to clear the King’s highway; and after we have done this, let us place everything in the hands of God, saying, “Lord, I have done my part. I believe Thy promises. Wilt Thou not now give evidence of Thy working?” He will hear and answer.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 7)
Blessed Jesus! It is Thou who hast unlocked to Thy people the gates of prayer. Without Thy wonderful humiliation, Thy wonderful sacrifice, they would have remained forever closed. There is indeed enough in the Word of God to encourage us, to strengthen us to believe and hold fast to the arm of God’s power. It was the Saviour’s atoning sacrifice that set ajar for us the gates of hope. He invites all who are weary and heavy laden, and this means you and me, to come to Him and find rest. “Take My yoke upon you,” He says, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 8)
Christ’s sacrifice has opened for us the heaven He desires us to reach, and His patience, forbearance, and grace keep it open. The comforting assurance is still for us, “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Verse 30.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 9)
I greatly fear that we are in danger, by worrying, of manufacturing yokes for our necks. Let us not worry; for thus we make the yoke severe and the burden heavy. Let us do all we can without worrying, trusting in Christ. Study His words, “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” [Matthew 21:22.] These words are the pledge that all that an omnipotent Saviour can bestow will be given to those who trust in Him. As stewards of the grace of heaven, we are to ask in faith, and then wait trustingly for the salvation of God. We are not to step in before Him, trying in our own strength to bring about that which we desire. In His name we are to ask, and then we are to act as if we believed in His efficiency.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 10)
I am confident that we lose many precious blessings by failing to bring our needs and cares and sorrows to our Saviour. He is the wonderful Counsellor. He looks upon His church with intense interest and with a heart full of tender sympathy. He enters into the depth of our necessities. But our ways are not always His ways. He sees the result of every action, and He asks us to trust patiently in His wisdom, not in the supposedly wise plans of our own making.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 11)
Do not cease to pray. If the answer tarry, wait for it. Lay all your plans at the feet of the Redeemer. Let your importunate prayers ascend to God. If it be for His name’s glory, the soothing words will be spoken, “Be it unto thee according to thy word.” [See Exodus 8:10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 12)
Faith and Courage
We can never weary Christ by earnest supplication. We do not depend on God as we should. Let us leave unsaid every word of complaint. Talk faith and courage, while waiting for God. Praise the Lord, my children, praise the Lord. Be afraid to doubt, lest this become a habit that will destroy faith. The dealing of the heavenly Father may seem dark and mysterious and unexplainable; nevertheless we are to trust in Him. I am determined, with the help of God, to look on the bright side. I am determined to let my light shine forth in cheerful, encouraging words.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 13)
Let God see in you, my son, a meek and quiet spirit. Do what you can in the grace and spirit of Christ, and stop when another spirit comes in. Speak gently. Speak words of kindness, words of uplifting; for this is the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. Overcome all harshness. Rash speeches do much harm to the souls of those who utter them and to the souls of those who hear. Eternity alone will reveal how greatly those who made these speeches needed to humble their hearts and make confession to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 14)
The New Commandment
Just before Christ left His disciples, to enter upon His great conflict with the powers of darkness, He said to them, “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 to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 15)
Have our church members learned the science of this love? Do they love one another as Christ has loved them? I tell you that there are very many who would be found wanting on the point of Christian love, were they weighed in the balances of the sanctuary. We need now to guard the spiritual soundness of our faith in Christ and treat the soul most carefully, lest we catch the coldness of worldly influences. God bids His people watch and pray always, lest they enter into temptation, breaking away from the heavenly current of life. Those who live in accordance with the ways of the world, speaking the words and following the customs of the worldling, cannot possibly observe the laws of heavenly origin.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 16)
There is spiritual life for every church member. We all need to apply the Word of God most earnestly to ourselves. We need to live in a higher, purer atmosphere. If we have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul, we shall be partakers of the divine nature. Then we shall have spirit and life and health. When the Word of God is brought into the daily life, there will be spiritual soundness. The powers of the soul will be exercised unto righteousness and godliness. Christ will dwell in our hearts, and the presence of His Spirit will be revealed by a healthy spiritual growth.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 17)
Deceptive Theories
How untiringly God has kept guard over His church. Shall we not act our part, that He may give us the grace that will enable us to attain to perfection of Christian character? Do not allow yourself to be led to think that you will live in heaven while in this fallen world. Those who think this keep their minds on the strain for some wonderful experience that will waft their souls into a refined, spiritual atmosphere. But this is not the true science of Christian experience. When they suppose they have reached spiritual heights of refinement, Satan, in the garb of an angel of light, presents to them indulgences in which he makes it appear there is no sin. I would warn you against these apparently refined doctrines which say that sin is not sin and teach the possibility of living a spiritualistic life above the grossness of sin. I write this because there are minds entering into temptation in regard to this refined science of spiritualistic attainments. You will meet this science, and you will hardly know how to handle it.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 18)
We have reached the perils of the last days, when some, yes, many, shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. Be cautious in regard to what you read and how you hear. Take not a particle of interest in spiritualistic theories. Satan is waiting to steal a march upon every one who allows himself to be deceived by his hypnotism. He begins to exert his power over them just as soon as they begin to investigate his theories.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 19)
In the book Living Temple, there were threads drawn into the pattern that are the subtlety of the serpent’s charm. I could bear a more decided testimony, but I do not wish unbelievers to know all that I know to be true in regard to the book. I supposed, after I had spoken so plainly in my testimonies, that every copy would be withdrawn. When I learned that many copies were still being circulated, I said: “Dr. Kellogg is still in the grasp of Satan’s specious snare. He is blind to the working of the enemy. He has linked his arm in the arm of Satan, and the enemy’s sentiments have come to look spiritually beautiful to him and have been reproduced by him. The weak and the spiritually ignorant are led blindfold into bye- and forbidden paths by smooth, beautiful, deceptive spiritualistic ideas....
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 20)
I wish to warn you plainly, my son, against the deceptive charm of the serpent. Keep entirely free from all spiritualistic presentations; for they mean a departure from right. We are to keep the truth in righteousness. Never are we to step over the line that God has made on to Satan’s ground. He will fascinate the senses of those who do this, leading them to choose evil in the place of good.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 21)
Living for Christ
One thing we must not forget; that in order for our character building to be pleasing to God, we must constantly advance in spirituality. We must regard as worthless anything that lessens faith and confidence in our Redeemer. The more light there is shining into our souls, the greater the demand upon us to reflect that light to others. God desires you to let your light shine forth to the world. He will be glorified in our individual reflection of His character.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 22)
I greatly desire that you shall have an ambition to live a life that will make others better—a life which will show that Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. I greatly desire that you shall be able to say with the apostle Paul, “I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.” [Galatians 2:20.] In perfect content, resting in the love of Christ, trusting the Redeemer and Life-giver to work out for you the salvation of your soul, you will know, as you draw nearer and still nearer to Him, what it means to endure the seeing of Him who is invisible. God desires us to rest content in His love. The contentment that Christ bestows is a gift worth infinitely more than gold and silver and precious stones.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 23)
Love the right because it is right, and analyze your feelings, your impressions, in the light of the Word of God. Misdirected ambition will lead you into sorrow as surely as you yield to it. I am trying to catch the very words and expressions that were made in reference to this matter, and as my pen hesitates a moment, the appropriate words come to my mind. I want you to understand me. Cherish an ambition that will bring glory to God because it is sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Let the holy oil, which comes from the two olive branches, burn with a holy radiance upon the altar of your soul. The work of these olive branches represents the richest impartation of the Holy Spirit. Zechariah says:
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 24)
“Then answered I and said unto Him, What are these two olive trees, upon the right side of the candlestick, and upon the left side thereof? And I answered again, and said unto Him, What be these two olive branches, which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves? And He answered me, and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my Lord. Then said He, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.” [Zechariah 4:11-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 25)
“Then I turned,” the prophet continues, “and lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold, a flying roll. And He said unto me, What seest thou? And I answered, I see a flying roll; the length thereof is twenty cubits, and the breadth thereof ten cubits. Then said He unto me, This is the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth; for every one that stealeth shall be cut off as on this side according to it; and every one that sweareth shall be cut off as on that side according to it. I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by My name; and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and it shall consume it with the timber thereof and the stones thereof.” [Zechariah 5:1-4.] Every evil worker will receive at God’s hand according to his works.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 26)
I want your ambition to be a sanctified ambition, so that angels of God can inspire your heart with holy zeal, leading you to move forward steadily and solidly and making you a bright and shining light. Your perceptive faculties will increase in power and soundness if your whole being, body, soul, and spirit is consecrated to the accomplishment of a holy work. Make every effort, in and through the grace of Christ, to attain to the high standard set before you. You can be perfect in your sphere as God is perfect in His sphere. Has not Christ declared, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect”? [Matthew 5:48.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 27)
You are not to regard yourself as merely a passive recipient of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. God has entrusted to you precious talents, and He requires the improvement of these talents. Interest from the principal lent is His due. You are to be a worker together with Him. Submitting your will to His will, you will improve in speech and in spiritual conceptions. You will be enabled to give the people, through your prayerful efforts, that which God has given you.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 28)
You are carefully to guard the powers of the mind. Your thoughts are to be kept under the control of the Holy Spirit. You are never to forget the words, “We are laborers together with God. Ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] It is your work to advance toward perfection, making constant improvement, until at last you are pronounced worthy to receive immortal life. And even then the work of progression will not cease, but will continue throughout eternity.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 29)
Danger from Overwork
There are before you grand possibilities. But your ambition and ardor must be bound up with the will of Christ; then they will not be intemperately exercised. You will realize that you are the Lord’s purchased possession and that you are not to injure His property. You will use the powers of mind and body wisely in such a way that will enable you to do a work that will endure through all eternity.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 30)
Never forget that you are not your own, that you have been bought with a price, and that you are, therefore, to glorify God in all that you say and do. You dishonor your Creator when you allow the powers He has entrusted to you to be overtaxed. You may have much enthusiasm. You may have a strong desire to see the work advancing; but because of this you are not to treat yourself as you have done. Seek wisdom from God. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and it shall be given him.” [James 1:5.] Your work is to gain perfection of character by receiving and imparting the grace of Christ. But with many other laborers, you have overdrawn your bank account of strength. Then you are obliged to pay the penalty in a wearied brain and feeble nerve power.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 31)
But how easy it is, when you know that God is lifting with you, to perform your work with peace and joy, with His grace in your heart. How easily the work is done when you realize that Christ is by your side. How uplifting and strengthening the influence of His Spirit! Every line of the work seems to move in harmony.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 32)
Allow me, for you are my son, to speak plainly. You have longed for greater opportunities to do the great work God has given you. You have felt unreconciled to be hedged in by lack of means and facilities. Keep your energies carefully trained, prepared for the doing of the work you long to do. Listen to the counsel of God. Do your best, calmly, and under the control of the grace of Christ. You have felt keenly desirous of seeing many lines of work established in the South; for you have felt that this would be an honor to God. But your trials are many and hard to bear. It is difficult for you to control your feelings when you see an unwillingness on the part of some to do the work that ought to be done. Again and again you resolve not to be easily provoked, not to fret over imaginary vexations. But trials come in the form of severe disappointments. In the effort to reach your expectations, you strain every nerve and muscle to improve the opportunities that come. You are grieved because there are those who do not do their part; and under the influence of the strain that you have placed upon yourself, you lose your self-control and speak unadvisedly.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 33)
Thus you lessen your influence for good.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 34)
You must hold firmly to the One who has all power in heaven and in earth; and although you often fail to reveal patience and calmness, you are by no means to give up the struggle. You are to resolve again, this time more firmly, to be an example of Christian patience under every provocation. And you are never to take your eyes off your divine Example.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 35)
Faithful in That Which is Least
It is by faithfulness in the little things that we become trustworthy sentinels. Guard carefully against the little irritations, not allowing them to harass your soul, and you will gain many victories. And when greater troubles come, you will be prepared to resist the enemy manfully and nobly.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 36)
I often think of the case of Naaman. He wished a great blessing, even cleansing from leprosy. Hearing of the power of Elisha the prophet, he went to him, to know what he might do to be healed. And Elisha sent him the message, “Go wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come to thee again, and thou shalt be clean.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 37)
“But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper. Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? May I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 38)
“And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he said to thee, Wash, and be clean?
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 39)
“Then went he down, and dipped himself in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God; and his flesh came again like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” [2 Kings 5:10-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 40)
Each soul inherits certain unchristlike traits of character. It is the grand and noble work of a lifetime to keep under control these tendencies to wrong. It is the little things that cross our path that are likely to cause us to lose our power of self-control.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 41)
The Lord will honor those who in this life have been faithful in the little things. He declared, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] He will not be found wanting when the greater tests come to him. Those who honor God in the smaller duties of the daily life will develop into men and women of sound judgment. Whatever trial may come to them, they will stand firm for the right.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 42)
God will understand you as you open your heart to Him. He knows what discipline each one needs. If you ask Him, He will surely give you power to resist evil. Your faith will be increased, and you will give evidence to others of the keeping power of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 43)
Your strength and growth in grace come only from one source. If when you are tempted and tried you stand bravely for the right, victory is yours. You are one step nearer to perfection of Christian character. A holy light from heaven fills the chambers of your soul, and you are surrounded by a pure, fragrant atmosphere.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 44)
We have a special work to do, and heaven desires that we shall perform this work in the fear and love of God, constantly growing in grace and in a knowledge of the truth. My son, I ask you not to labor imprudently. Give your brain periods of rest. I write this because I may never see you again, although I hope to; and if the Lord will, we shall see you not many weeks hence. But in case my life should not be spared till then, I write you this letter, that you may have my words to study and repeat to others. Stop overworking. In the end you gain nothing by it. You are mortal, and you must guard your strength.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 45)
Right Thinking
The power of right thought is more precious than the golden wedge of Ophir. I know that if all our church members were right thinkers, we should be spared many church trials. We need to place a high value upon the right control of our thoughts; for such control prepares the mind and soul to labor harmoniously for the Master. It is necessary for our peace and happiness in this life that our thoughts center in Christ. As a man thinketh, so is he.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 46)
Our improvement in moral purity depends on right thinking and right acting. “Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.... For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man.” [Matthew 15:11, 19, 20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 47)
Evil thoughts destroy the soul. The converting power of God changes the heart, refining and purifying the thoughts. Unless a determined effort is made to keep the thoughts centered on Christ, grace cannot reveal itself in the life. The mind must engage in the spiritual warfare. Every thought must be brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. All the habits must be brought under God’s control.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 48)
We need a constant sense of the ennobling power of pure thoughts and the damaging influence of evil thoughts. Let us place our thoughts upon holy things. Let them be pure and true; for the only security for any soul is right thinking. We are to use every means that God has placed within our reach for the government and cultivation of our thoughts. We are to bring our minds into harmony with His mind. His truth will sanctify us, body and soul and spirit, and we shall be enabled to rise above temptation. The words that we speak will be wise words.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 49)
April 3
I began this letter several days ago, but was called away to something else and finished it on Sabbath. I hope to see you ere long, and I ask you not to enter into any new enterprise without the counsel of your brethren. The men that you have chosen are not prepared for such work. I have no evidence that labor of this kind would give them the right experience. Work of this nature needs men who are sound in the truth, men who are not easily tempted. There is a picture before me that I cannot efface—a picture of the gospel wagon and the influence that was exerted by its work. Wait for a little while, and see what the Lord will do for us.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 50)
This morning I read a letter just received from Dr. Paulson, and I rejoice to tell you that he is coming out all straight. I am so thankful. I hope that he will wholly recover himself from the snare of the enemy. I will send you a copy of what he has written. O what a wide swath Satan thought he could cut in our ranks through the sentiments contained in The Living Temple. Dr. Kellogg did not know what he was doing when he gave expression to those sentiments. For years he has brought so little of true Bible teaching into his life that he has been as a man blindfolded. It made me heartsick to think that men like Dr. Paulson and others should be led astray by these sentiments. But I know that the Lord will care for His own.
(19LtMs, Lt 123, 1904, 51)
Lt 125, 1904
Craw, Hiram A. Healdsburg, California March 2, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Craw,—
I have received and read your letter. Thank you for writing. I feel that I but fulfilled my duty in asking you to use the Master’s entrusted capital in His own work. I have often asked our brethren to invest means in this way. When brought into strait places for want of money with which to advance the work, I have borrowed money from my brethren and gone to work. Thus we labored in Australia, and those brought into the truth by this means are now bringing in their tithe to support the work in new fields. Thus the Lord’s money is kept in circulation, and the gospel message is proclaimed to those waiting to hear it. The knowledge of the truth makes them happy, and instead of speculating with their means, or purchasing land and houses, they invest it in the work of soul-saving.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 1)
The Lord desires His people to increase in spirituality, in self-denial, in self-sacrifice. Beside all waters they are to sow the seeds of truth, remembering that it is God who gives the increase. Wherever they are, whatever they are doing, they are to exemplify in their lives the truth that brings salvation, that they may be a praise in the earth.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 2)
There are those who are willing to take the burden of presenting the truth to the people. But it is necessary that means be furnished, that the willing hearts and hands may be employed in co-operation with God. Thus the work of the Lord is to be carried forward. It is not to stand still or go backward.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 3)
God has given to every man his work. His laborers are to be a pure, holy, sanctified people. By an unselfish use of their means and by earnest efforts, they are to let the light of truth shine forth to those in darkness. Our publications are to be circulated, and the message of truth is to be proclaimed from the pulpit and from house to house. Thus converts will be added to the church, and the working forces will be strengthened.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 4)
If those who profess to be saved through the sacrifice of Christ were indeed workers together with God, they would reach a much higher standard. They would become partakers of the divine nature and would leave the lowlands of selfishness and worldliness for the heights of spiritual power that God desires them to reach. By co-operation with Christ they would gather a rich harvest of souls.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 5)
Just before His ascension Christ gave His disciples their commission. “Go ye therefore,” He said, “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.] This commission is the great missionary charter of Christ’s kingdom. The disciples were to work earnestly for souls, raising up churches in every place. They were not to wait for the people to come to them; they were to go to them. They were to use every means in their power to gather in other workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 6)
We today are to labor as earnestly as the disciples labored for the salvation of perishing souls. This is our day of trust. The work entrusted to those who profess to believe the truth means much, very much, to them. We are God’s instrumentalities. Upon those who have had greatest light, the greatest opportunities rest the heaviest obligations. Their light, their opportunities, their gifts are to be used constantly in the service of the Master. They are to put their entrusted means out to usury by investing it in the work of soul-saving, bringing to Christ those who in turn will consecrate their means and their abilities to Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 7)
Do we realize that all we have is lent us by God. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are His.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] All that we have is the Lord’s; it has been lent to us for wise investment. Were it our own, we might be justified in exercising a discretionary power as to its use. But it belongs to God, and to Him we are accountable for the way in which it is used.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 8)
God calls upon all, from those in the most lowly station to those occupying conspicuous places in His service, to remember that He holds them responsible for the use they make of their entrusted gifts. They are to work for Him, withholding nothing, trading diligently on the pence and pounds placed in their hands, putting forth unwearied and successful effort.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 9)
Who will venture to trifle with his responsibilities? Who will venture to squander or hoard his means? God expects every believer to do his best. Christ has a right to the service of those whom He has redeemed. We are His stewards saved by grace and entrusted with talents to be increased and returned to the Lord. According to the amount bestowed will be the returns expected.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 10)
I am not writing this for you alone. I wish you to read it to others. Let it be read in the church of which you are a member. It may be that some who hear will be led to come up to the help of the Lord—to give something for the advancement of His work.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 11)
My brother, I have no desire to specify your duty. Go to the Word for yourself, and learn from it the relation in which you stand to God and His work. Ask yourself how you are using His entrusted gifts. I do not want to press you to do something which you have no light that you should do. But my work has been outlined before me. One phase of this work is to present before our church members their obligations to God. When a new field is to be opened, I am to present to those who have means the needs of this field, asking them to help. I was referred to you as one who might have some money to lend, and therefore I wrote to you. I will not urge you to lend me money, but will just lay the facts before you, and will ask you to do what the Lord impresses you to do. I must follow the directions given me. I must call for means for the advancement of the Lord’s work.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 12)
I desire to call your attention to the work to be established in Washington. I must see the work started there. No extravagance must be seen in the establishment of the carrying forward of this work. There is to be no needless display in the buildings erected. In every respect these buildings are to be in harmony with our faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 13)
Will you not read this letter, and the one already sent you, to the believers within your reach, asking them to help in establishing the work in Washington? Will you not unite with me in collecting means for this work?
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 14)
I am at present attending the Pacific Union Conference meetings. I am suffering from a severe cold, but last Sabbath the Lord gave me freedom in speaking to a large congregation in the church here. I hope to be able to speak several times before the meeting closes.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 15)
Hoping to hear from you soon, I am
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 16)
Your sister in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 125, 1904, 17)
Lt 127, 1904
Irwin, Brother and Sister [G. A.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 11, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in CD 288-289, 491. Dear Brother and Sister Irwin,—
I have received and read your letters. Thank you for writing. I have much to say in regard to Dr. Caro, but will be able to say only a little in this mail. Dr. Caro’s experience in connection with the work in Australia has clearly shown that he is not to be placed in the responsible positions that he once held, until he has fully proven that he has learned his lesson at the foot of the cross. I am sending you a copy of a letter that I have written to Dr. Caro and Brother Sharp. The night before your letter came, I seemed to be in several places, speaking in regard to the solemn, important work to be done by the Wahroonga Sanitarium. I said that should Dr. Caro and Brother Sharp unite in conducting a sanitarium, that institution would not be successful; for it would not be conducted in the Lord’s way. They would devise many plans for carrying forward the work of the institution, but the Holy Spirit would not be honored, and God would not be glorified.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 1)
It is time that Dr. Kress had a helper, a physician who is soundly converted and who could unite with him in making the institution what God designs it shall be—a place where the weary and heavy laden shall find rest. With two gentlemen physicians in the institution, one could spend part of his time attending the general meetings held, calling the attention of our people to the work and needs of the Sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 2)
The danger of going to extremes in diet must be guarded against in the Sanitarium. We cannot expect worldlings to accept at once that which our people have been years in learning. Even now there are many of our ministers who do not practice health reform, notwithstanding the light they have had. We cannot expect those who do not realize the need of abstemiousness in diet, who have had no practical experience on this subject, to take at once the wide step between self-indulgence in eating and the most strenuous diet of health reform.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 3)
Those who come to the Sanitarium must be provided with wholesome food prepared in the most palatable way consistent with right principles. We cannot expect them to live just as we live. The change would be too great. And there are very few throughout our ranks who live so abstemiously as Dr. Kress has thought it wise to live. Changes must not be made abruptly, when the patients are not prepared for them.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 4)
The food placed before the patients should be such as to make a favorable impression on them. Eggs can be prepared in a variety of ways. Lemon pie should not be forbidden.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 5)
Too little thought and painstaking effort have been given to making the food tasty and nourishing. We do not want that the Sanitarium shall be destitute of patients. We cannot convert men and women from the error of their ways unless we treat them wisely.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 6)
Get the best cook possible, and do not limit the food to that which would suit the taste of some who are rigid health reformers. Were the patients given this food only, they would become disgusted, because it would taste so insipid. It is not thus that souls are to be won to the truth in our sanitariums. Let the cautions that the Lord has given Brother and Sister Kress in regard to extremes in diet be heeded. I was instructed that Dr. Kress must change his diet and eat more nourishing food. It is possible to avoid rich cooking, and yet make the food palatable. I know that every extreme in diet that is brought into the Sanitarium will hurt the reputation of the institution.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 7)
On my way home from the General Conference held in Battle Creek, I visited the College View Sanitarium. The meal that I took there was not such as I would have chosen to set before patients.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 8)
There is a way of combining and preparing food that will make it both wholesome and nourishing. Those in charge of the cooking in our sanitariums should understand how to do this. The matter should be treated from a Bible standpoint. There is such a thing as robbing the body of nutrition. The preparation of food in the best manner possible is to become a science.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 9)
I eat the most simple food, prepared in the most simple way. For months my principal diet has been vermicelli and canned tomatoes cooked together. This I eat with zwieback. Then I have also stewed fruit of some kind and sometimes lemon pie. Dried corn, cooked with milk or a little cream, is another dish that I sometimes use.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 10)
But the other members of my family do not eat the same things that I do. I do not hold myself up as a criterion for them. I leave each one to follow his own ideas as to what is best for him. I bind no one else’s conscience by my own. One person cannot be a criterion for another in the matter of eating. It is impossible to make one rule for all to follow. There are those in family who are very fond of beans, while to me beans are poison. Butter is never placed on my table, but if the members of my family choose to use a little butter away from the table, they are at liberty to do so. Our table is set twice a day, but if there are those who desire something to eat in the evening, there is no rule that forbids them from getting it. No one complains or goes from our table dissatisfied. A variety of food that is simple, wholesome, and palatable is always provided.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 11)
I do not think, Brother Irwin, that Brother and Sister Starr should leave for England at the present time. I was glad when they connected with the Sanitarium; for their influence was needed, and it is needed still.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 12)
I am praying that the Lord will help and bless and strengthen the workers in the Wahroonga Sanitarium. I am heart and soul with you all in the work. Do not stumble over the things that I have written. I hope that wise, experienced helpers will be found to unite with you.
(19LtMs, Lt 127, 1904, 13)
Lt 129, 1904
Irwin, G. A.; Starr, G. B. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 12, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Irwin and Brother Starr,—
I shall be able to write you only a very short letter in this mail. For some weeks I have not been well in mind or body. In five days I shall leave my pleasant home to make a visit to Washington, D.C. Our cherry trees are now in full bloom, and they look very beautiful. We have the promise of a large crop of prunes; the trees are now laden with their white blossoms. To leave home at this time is a trial, but the Lord will be my strength, my frontguard and rearward.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 1)
Brother Starr, do not be in too great haste to leave Australia. You can be a blessing to the working forces in New South Wales if you will just walk and work humbly with God. Cling to the mighty arm that never fails any soul that leans trustingly upon it. I should be very much pleased to see you, but your time to leave Australia has not yet come.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 2)
I hope that a physician will be found who can connect with Brother and Sister Kress, helping them to share the burdens of the Sanitarium. But never, never, never should Brother Sharp and Dr. Caro unite their forces in the Sanitarium. I fear that some will try to bring this about; and I would say that the same objections, which have in the past forbidden the connection of Dr. Caro with the Sanitarium, exist today. He has gained no special wisdom since he went to New Zealand to work. He has not gained the wisdom that would entitle him to a place in the Sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 3)
I have written to Dr. Caro and Brother Sharp, telling them that for them to be associated together would not be for the spiritual good of either. We need at this time spiritual discernment. We must have clear conceptions of the will of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 4)
I have spoken in regard to securing another physician in the Sanitarium because I know that if possible Dr. Caro will seek to get standing room in the institution. But this must not be allowed until he gives evidence of thorough conversion. The way in which the matter is presented to me is that Dr. Caro must have a higher spiritual experience and a clearer conception of what is meant by true righteousness before he can be given work in the Sanitarium. When the record of his past experience is presented to me, I am instructed that he has not changed for the better.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 5)
It is thought by some that the difficulty all lies with Dr. Caro’s wife; but this is a mistake. Dr. Caro does not give his wife the time and attention that he ought. He does not seek to save her soul as well as his own by a judicious course of action. If he would do his whole duty, he could be a great help to his wife. But there is a work to be done for Dr. Caro that no one can do but himself. He is to make strenuous efforts to undo the wrong he has done his wife in leading her into friendship with the world. He has made her an excuse for his own defective religious experience; but God looks upon him reprovingly because of his failure to lead and guide his wife in the right way.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 6)
God calls upon both of them to prepare to meet their Lord. Neither of them is qualified to give the right mold to the work in the Sanitarium. The impressions made on the patients in this institution are to be in accordance with Bible truth; and therefore it will be best for Dr. Caro and his wife not to have any connection with the Sanitarium. When another physician is chosen, it must be a man who has a knowledge of present truth, and who brings the principles of this truth into his daily practice.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 7)
I write this because I know that the enemy will seek to do his best to control matters, but we must forestall him. Let all be of good courage in the Lord. Trust in the God of our salvation. I am praying that the rich blessing of God will rest upon the Sanitarium. You will be able to carry the work forward if you can secure faithful, God-fearing, thoroughgoing helpers; but helpers who are anything short of this would only be a hindrance. Move carefully and prayerfully. May God help you, is my prayer. Hold fast to the promises. Walk humbly with God, and He will show you His way.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 8)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 129, 1904, 9)
Lt 131, 1904
Sharp, Brother; Caro, E. R. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 11, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in HP 245; 9MR 373-374. Dear Brethren Sharp and Caro,—
I have had some opportunity of talking with Brother Burden since his return to America. I have met him both at St. Helena and at Healdsburg. But we did not have time to dwell upon all the matters of which I desired to speak to him. I had hoped that I might have had another interview with him.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 1)
I told Brother Burden that I could not free my mind from some of the burdens that I have been carrying in reference to the work in Australia until I have written some things to Brother Sharp and Dr. Caro.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 2)
It was a mistake to remove Brother Sharp from the responsibilities he was bearing so well in connection with the food work and to encourage him to confine himself to the work of bookkeeping. For his own good, he should be engaged in a more active life. A competent woman should be employed as bookkeeper at the Sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 3)
In the night season of April 10, I was bearing a decided testimony in regard to the sacredness of the work in which we are engaged. I had a message of warning for Brother Sharp, emphasizing the necessity of walking out by faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 4)
“Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.”
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 6)
Will you bear this in mind? Every physician, and every other worker in any line of the work of God, must cultivate that unselfish faith which works by love and purifies the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 7)
“By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.” [Verse 7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 8)
Brother Sharp, God has a special interest in you, and He would have you in a position where no outward influence shall affect your judgment or your course of action. Do not walk according to worldly wisdom. You should expect to be instructed of God as verily as was Noah. You have a family to save. Do not place your children where they will be molded by worldly influences. Step out by faith, and let the world see that you believe the truth. Do all in your power to separate your children from every wrong influence. Your eldest son should be placed where he will obtain an education, line upon line, precept upon precept, an education that will not have to be laid aside before he can enter the heavenly city. He may now receive an education that he can take with him in the future life.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 9)
Place your children where they may receive an education that will fit them to be members of the royal family. They should have the advantages of the Avondale school. The Lord has wonderfully wrought in the establishment of this institution. In giving an all-round education and Christian training, it is far above worldly colleges. Our people in Australasia should seek most earnestly to place their children where they may obtain a knowledge that will enable them to answer aright the question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Those who have received the light of present truth should make constant improvement in knowledge, moving steadily onward and upward toward that city whose builder and maker is God.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 10)
“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God....
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 11)
“These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for He hath prepared them a city.” [Verses 8-10, 13-16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 12)
My brother, I am instructed to say to you that you need to live by faith, even as did these faithful representatives of their time. Your faith needs to be stripped of some of its human elements, that it may lay hold of invisible things. You need a deeper religious experience.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 13)
It would not be for your spiritual advancement to be closely connected with Dr. Caro. This has been tried, and the result was not beneficial either to yourself or to the doctor.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 14)
Many things have been done in the past of which God has not approved. Unless the thoughts, the words, the acts are carefully guarded, the enemy will come in to discourage and hinder the work of God. O how much surmising, criticism, and jealousy spring up in the mind of one who allows himself to stand on the side of the enemy.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 15)
Many circumstances will arise to mar the unity even of kindred minds, when they are not cemented by true piety. Envy and jealousy and evil-surmising in the heart has weakened the forces that need strengthening.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 16)
Had Dr. Caro, from the first of his labors in connection with the Sanitarium, acted as he might have acted, how I should have been rejoiced. But he has moved impulsively and many times has followed plans of the enemy’s devising, plans that have endangered the cause and work of God. We have neither time nor means to expend in experimenting with plans that are born of minds not sanctified by the Spirit of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 17)
Many today do not occupy the vantage ground they might occupy if their practice were in harmony with their profession. We must experience the power of divine grace before we can be pure and elevated.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 18)
He who holds true communion with God has no relish for the low and commonplace, for transient delights and indulgence. Under the molding influence of the Holy Spirit, he reveals a preference for better things. He who has drunk of the pure fountain of living water will take no delight in the muddy, turbulent streams of earth. A temporal, artificial satisfaction is all that world lovers obtain. Those who sell their hope of heaven for so slight a reward will be deemed unworthy of the life that measures with the life of God. Jesus said, “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.]
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 19)
The Lord has blessed the Sanitarium, and He will continue to bless it if those connected with it will seek to carry out the purpose of God in its establishment. Let there be full fellowship of spirit. Let everything that might cause alienation or strife be carefully avoided. Let the workers manifest that charity which furnishes a smile for every one, a tear for every fault, and a gracious pardon for every mistake.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 20)
There should be sound, sensible teaching on the matter of diet. The diet should be so varied as to suit the need of the different ones. This question should be carefully studied, that all may be brought into harmony with God’s will.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 21)
Everything possible should be done to make the Sanitarium life attractive and satisfying. God desires the pure, ennobling truths of His Word to be lived and taught. Let there be seen such marked contrast between the goodness and mercy and love of God, as revealed in the lives of His followers, and the sinful manifestations of the natural heart in the lives of those who believe not, that souls will be convicted and converted and the patients bear away with them a sense of peace and rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 22)
The world has medical institutions of a different character and mold from this. These worldly institutions furnish an abundance of that which gratifies depraved appetite, satisfies the craving of the natural desires, and ministers to the indulgence of health-destroying appetite. There are many, like grown-up children, who seem to live merely to eat and drink and to gratify their own desires. They are continually seeking for some new thing to tempt the appetite. And many physicians will prescribe for them those things which they crave. Their minds become degraded by vice, and amusement, and the ceaseless round of gratification of the lowest indulgences. Thus they make a hell upon God’s earth.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 23)
We are not to make the gratification of every desire the joy of our existence. Let the heart find its satisfaction in seeking to know and understand the will of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 24)
“Ye are the light of 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 5:14, 16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 25)
Bring the joy of heaven into your lives. The light of heaven, reflected in its beauteous charm from those who are preparing for translation, brings joy to the heavenly family.
(19LtMs, Lt 131, 1904, 26)
Lt 133, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 12, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 111; 5Bio 319. Dear children Edson and Emma,—
I was very much pleased to receive a letter from Sister Haskell, in which she tells of the progress of their work in Nashville. This letter was read at our dinner table and was listened to with great interest. I believe that the Lord is moving upon hearts in Nashville, and I am so glad. I will answer Sister Haskell’s letter as soon as I can get time and strength. This morning I have been writing for the Australian mail. I have written to Brother Sharp and Dr. Caro, and to Brother Irwin and Brother Starr. I have just closed up these letters, and in a short time I must go to the dentist’s to have a new upper set of teeth fitted.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 1)
I am not well. The malaria is upon me, and I cannot eat with any relish. But my head feels clearer, and I can use it more than I could. It is for this that I have been asking the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 2)
Two or three days ago we sent you a draft for one hundred and four dollars. I hope that this will reach you in due time.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 3)
We are in the midst of packing up. We shall leave here Sunday afternoon or Monday morning and will take the train that leaves San Francisco at six o’clock Monday evening. There will be no change after that till we reach Washington.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 4)
Our plan is to go direct to Washington and stay there for two or three weeks. Then, if I am able, I shall attend the Lake Union Conference, which is to be held at Berrien Springs; and at the close of this meeting I shall go to Nashville. We made this arrangement so that I could spend some time at Nashville, instead of hurrying through.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 5)
Be assured of one thing: I will never turn in any other direction means that I can consistently appropriate for the South. I fully understand the needs of this field, and I shall send you all the help I can. Brother Harper told me that he was sending you a check for one hundred and twenty-five dollars on the sale of your books. I suppose that you will soon receive this, if you have not already done so.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 6)
Later. I have just returned from the dentist. I think that the teeth he has made for me fit well. I dare not leave myself with only one set of upper teeth. Should I have just one set, and should anything happen to it, I would be in a bad fix.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 7)
Not long ago I sent you a long letter. I felt deeply impressed to write the things contained in this letter. We need now to live in close touch with Christ. We need to draw constantly from the abundant supply of grace provided. Edson, just as surely as you seek the Lord with all your heart, so surely will He give you rest and grace and His salvation. His praise is ever to be on our lips because His love is in our hearts. Just as long as the enemy lives, he will harass and perplex us in every way possible. But looking to Jesus, trusting in Jesus, we will be more than conquerors. He loves us. His great heart of love is open to all our griefs and sorrows. He knows our every weakness.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 8)
There is a “well-doing” that is possible for all of us. We are to live moment by moment, in trustful dependence on Christ. The obligation resting on us, as sons of God, to honor His name, should be our great incentive to earnest, sanctified effort. We can glorify God upon this earth. We can walk before Him in all humility of mind. In Christlike usefulness and holiness, we can be living witnesses for the Master. I greatly desire that all with whom you associate shall see in you the well-doing that is possible for all who love God and keep His commandments.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 9)
It is not enough for us to have occasional glimpses of Christ. We need an abiding sense of His love, His grace. We should give expression more freely to our gratitude for the blessings that God bestows upon us. How much better it is to speak words of praise than to talk of the discouraging features of our experience. Tell of God’s goodness, speak of His love. Show your sympathy and love for others by kind, unselfish deeds. This will make you a co-laborer with Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 10)
By seeking to provoke us to wrath, Satan tries persistently to lead us to misrepresent Christ. Let us defeat his plans. Let the impress of Christ on the soul make our “well-doing” as prominent as Satan’s evil-doing is prominent. Be not weary in well-doing. Work as untiringly for the Master as Satan works to multiply wickedness. He hopes to win the world over to disloyalty. He hopes that his pleasing fables will gain the day. He hopes to be indeed monarch of the world, making men like himself. Nothing but watchfulness and prayer can give us power to withstand his devising. Eternal vigilance is the price of safety. Every avenue to the soul must be carefully guarded.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 11)
I am charged with a message to you, my son. Do not try to do so much that you are always in a hurry, and weariness leads to impatience and discouragement. Fight, my son, fight with all the power that God has provided for you against the enemy. Satan’s agents are industriously trying to get professing Christians to speak unadvisedly. When they succeed, Satan exults, because God’s followers have hurt their influence. But we need not be overcome by the enemy. The Prince of heaven is on our side. He gives us the assurance, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 12)
These words outline our work. Edson my son, in the name of the Lord tell those who seek to hinder you that you have no time to contend or criticize or to make it hard for others. Those who do this are helping Satan. He exalts when he can bring the spirit of criticism and faultfinding into the family, the church, or the school. A firm stand against this spirit is to be taken in the home. Those parents who permit themselves to speak words of discouragement and faultfinding are educating their children in the enemy’s school. By their careless speech they are binding up their children with the agencies of Satan. They may profess to be Christians, but they are not. They are working contrary to Christ, on Satan’s side of the question. Many professing Christians have placed themselves so entirely under the dictation of Satan that they have become his agencies. He has no more powerful instrumentality than the professing Christian who is disloyal to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 13)
I am bidden to say to our church members: Will you now take your stand fully on the Lord’s side, or will you serve the Lord when it is convenient and Baal when it is convenient? Christ says, “No man can serve two masters.”“He that is not for Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 6:24; 12:30.] To be loyal to God means an entire renunciation of self and all evil working.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 14)
The ministers of the gospel need the help of those in the church who can discern between Satan’s agents and the men who have put on the whole armor and are fighting manfully against the inroads that Satan is striving to make. The enemy uses unconverted Christians as decoys, to lead others away from the truth. He fills their hearts with backbiting. He leads them to place obstructions in the way so that advancement cannot be made. He has worked through prominent church members who under his directions have kept their foot on the brake. When advancement was necessary in order to gain needed advantages, such ones have seen obstacles in the way and have refused to move forward. This has pleased the enemy, but it has greatly dishonored the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 15)
God calls upon believers to cease finding fault, to cease making hasty, unkind speeches. Parents, let the words that you speak to your children be kind and pleasant, that angels may have your help in drawing them to Christ. A thorough reformation is needed in the home church. Let it begin at once. Let all grumbling and fretting and scolding cease. Those who fret and scold shut out the angels of heaven and open the door to evil angels. Let the husband and wife remember that they have burdens enough to carry without making their lives wretched by allowing differences to come in. Those who give place to little differences invite Satan into their home. The children catch the spirit of contention over mere trifles. Evil agencies do their part to make parents and children disloyal to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 16)
My brethren and sisters, will you not be laborers together with God, working for peace and harmony? Pray for the sweet, molding influence of the Holy Spirit. Let your lips be governed by the law of kindness. Refuse to be sour, uncourteous, unkind. Be true to your profession of faith. Then you can sing, “There are angels hovering round.” Your mind will become as the mind of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 17)
When you agree to wear Christ’s yoke, when you heed the invitation, “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], you will cease to bind yokes on the necks of others. You will cease to find fault. You will no longer regard it as a virtue to differ from others. You will dwell on those points on which you can agree.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 18)
We are preparing to meet our Lord when He comes in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. In this grand and noble work, we are to help one another. Parents are to bring all the sunshine and pleasantness that they can into their homes. They are to make their homes full of sunshine by kindly words and deeds. Thus they are educating themselves to praise the Lord in the assembly of His people.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 19)
Do not serve the enemy of God by exhibiting a harsh, unkind spirit. Those only will enter heaven who have overcome the temptation to speak and act unkindly and harshly. Act out the mind of Christ, speak the words of Christ, and the Lord Jesus, by His Holy Spirit, will be a guest in your home.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 20)
God calls upon His people in the North and the South and the East and the West to live from henceforth wholly for Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 21)
In the past, by their lack of self-control, they have given the enemy the victory and have weakened their power to work successfully for God. Satan rejoices, and the angels of God weep. Christ is dishonored by His professed people. Their unholy words work against the truth and against the souls for whom Christ has died. Unchristlike speech lies at the foundation of nine-tenths of all the difficulties that exist in the church.
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 22)
Shall we not resolve to change the order of things? Shall we not determine to resist temptation?
(19LtMs, Lt 133, 1904, 23)
Lt 135, 1904
Cady, Brother; Lucas, Brother “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 15, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brethren Cady and Lucas,—
I have had my attention called to Brother Herbert Lacey’s situation. He has been asked to go to England and take up work in that field. I understand that from the time of his leaving New Zealand to the time of his taking up work in this field, a period of six weeks, he received no remuneration whatever. I think that he should receive wages for this time, and that the money should be taken from the Christ’s Object Lesson Fund. I cannot but advise that Brother Lacey be reimbursed from this fund. Please talk with him about this, and make matters straight with him.
(19LtMs, Lt 135, 1904, 1)
I feel perfectly clear in this matter. Traveling from place to place means increased expense. When Brother Lacey left New Zealand, he sold his household goods at a sacrifice. He will have to sell his goods here before he leaves and will be obliged to buy again when he reaches London. Please do all you can to help him to dispose of his goods satisfactorily.
(19LtMs, Lt 135, 1904, 2)
I feel thankful that Christ’s Object Lessons can be used to help out in cases like this. It is but just and right that it should be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 135, 1904, 3)
Lt 137, 1904
Hizerman, H. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 11, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 4MR 165-167; 7MR 328. My dear young friend,—
I wish to act my part faithfully in seeking to save your soul. A heavy price has been paid to redeem you. “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 1)
In my dreams last night I was speaking to a company of young men. I asked them to sing, “Almost Persuaded.” Some present were deeply moved. I knew that they were almost persuaded, but that if they did not make decided efforts to return to Christ, the conviction of their sinfulness would leave them. You made some confessions, and I asked you, “Will you not from this time stand on the Lord’s side?” If you will receive Jesus, He will receive you. “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.” [John 1:10-12.] You need not be discouraged. Come to the Saviour, saying,
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 2)
“In my hand no price I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling.”
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 3)
Will you now resolve to make a most decided reform in your life, in your character building. Will you not turn square about, and say firmly, “I will no longer give others the impression that I do not respect the law of God. I will be on the Lord’s side. I will give my heart to the service of God.” Will you not make this decision now, just now. It is for your eternal interest to do this.
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 4)
I do not ask for a history of your past life, of how you have turned from Christ to the enemy. Tell all that to the One who loves you, the One who has for you more than human sympathy. He died to redeem you.
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 5)
I expect to meet Professor Cady at Mountain View, on my way to Los Angeles. I shall tell him about you and ask if you cannot be admitted into the school at Healdsburg, and whether you cannot partly work your way for the next eight weeks. I shall make what arrangements I deem best. I want you to take your stand decidedly, of your own free will, to co-operate with me in my efforts to assist you. I want you to sign a pledge that you will be strictly temperate, that you will not associate with those who visit saloons, that you will abstain from the use of tobacco and intoxicating liquor. Will you sign this pledge? If you will, I shall on my part use my influence to get you a place in the school; for I believe that you will keep your promise.
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 6)
Do you say, “What? Sign away my liberty?” You have no liberty of your own. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] You are Christ’s purchased possession. What was the price that He paid to redeem you from the slavery of sin? He gave up His high command in the heavenly courts, laid off His royal robe and kingly crown, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might pay for us the penalty of transgression. He came to this world to stand at the head of the human family. For our sake He became poor, that we might come into possession of the eternal riches. With His long human arm He encircled the race, while with His divine arm He grasped the throne of mercy in behalf of fallen human beings, that He might take away their sins and make them partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 7)
In Christ we have a sure defense. “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 besides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue.” A virtuous character is of the highest value. “And to virtue knowledge.” All slothfulness, all indolence is to be steadily overcome. “And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience.” [2 Peter 1:3-6.] Take time to study how to make your work a success. It is by the quality of our work rather than the quantity that we shall be judged at the last great day.
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 8)
“And to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brother 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. 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 6-11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 9)
These words show the necessity of our doing most thorough, solid work in our character building. “He that lacketh these things is blind”—he has a perverted judgment—“and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.” [Verse 9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 10)
The world is full of backsliders who refuse to become laborers together with God, building for time and for eternity in the sight of men and angels a noble character. They associate with the degraded and besotted, forgetting that Satan is playing the game of life for their souls. Shall we put Christ to open shame? Shall we give license to sin and by our example lead others to become weaker than ourselves?
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 11)
Oh, for Christ’s sake, respond to the invitation given you by the Saviour. “Give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things”—living on the plan of addition, adding grace to grace, building up day by day a pure, refined, noble character—“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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 12)
My brother, it means everything to you to secure your eternal life insurance policy. If you will take hold in earnest to co-operate with God, He will work with you. Read and ponder the words of the Scripture. Make sure work for repentance. Be in earnest. Secure heaven even if it must be at the loss of all else.
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 13)
The Father in heaven cannot save you if you go contrary to His will. It is the obedient child only that He can bless. “He that hath My commandments and keepeth them,” Christ says, “he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will manifest Myself to him.” [John 14:21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 14)
May the Lord help you to cut loose from every fetter and to bind yourself up with the love and in the protection of an all-powerful Friend. Do not be lukewarm in this matter. Resolve that with God’s help you will build up a worthy character and will exert an influence for Christ and the right.
(19LtMs, Lt 137, 1904, 15)
Lt 139, 1904
Vickery, Robert “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 17, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in PM 209-210; TDG 116. + Mr. Robert Vickery My dear brother,—
I hear that you have some money lent on interest to the Review and Herald, Battle Creek, Michigan, and to the General Conference Association, Washington, D.C. An officer of the General Conference, hearing of the great work I have to do in bringing out my books, has intimated that the Association would be willing to release part of the money they have borrowed from you, if you should desire to lend it to me. I now write to ask you if you will let me have the use of two thousand dollars to help me in bringing out books that the people need.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 1)
I greatly desire to see the third angel’s message proclaimed with a loud voice, with a power that will make the armies of Satan tremble. God would have us do all we can to save a perishing world. I know that the end is near, and I desire to do all in my power to warn those who are in the path of error. While the Lord spares my life, I shall use all the powers He gives me in letting the light of the gospel shine forth in clear, bright rays, as a lamp that burneth, that sinners may be saved.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 2)
If I should fall in the conflict before the Lord’s appearing, my sons would carry forward the work of circulating my books according to my plans. When the expense of issuing my books is lessened, the sales will soon pay up all my debts.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 3)
I should be very much pleased to see you and talk with you of the faith that we have both held for so many years. For some time I have hoped to visit Southern California, but I have been too busy in preparing books for publication.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 4)
We find it difficult to bring out all the books that we desire to; for we have not the means to pay for the work that must be done on them. But the Lord knows all about this, and He may move upon the hearts of some one who can do so to help us in this time of need. It is hard to be delayed in this work; for we know that we have but a short time to labor, and we greatly desire to give the world the light we have received from the Lord. We shall do what we can in the preparation of the matter and will ask the Lord to lay the burden upon those who can help us with their talent of means. Some have already lent me money. Upon this money I pay them five per cent interest, and whenever they call for the return of the money, I send it to them.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 5)
My brother, will you help us in our efforts to get before the people of the world the message of warning that is to prepare a people to stand in the great day of test and trial so soon to come upon all men? All that I can do is to ask. Then if no response comes, it will not be because of a neglect on my part.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 6)
I praise the Lord that the time is soon coming when every one whose name is written in the book of life will be delivered. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.” [Psalm 46:1, 2.]
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 7)
Our God is all powerful, and He doeth according to His will. We are to move according to His directions, even though we be led to the very gates of death. Then our lives will be safe; for they will be hid with Christ in God.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 8)
I am so thankful to my heavenly Father for His daily blessings to me. About a week ago, I felt completely worn out with the effort I had put forth in writing. My mind would not work, and I felt much depressed. I had almost given up hope of ever feeling rested again. But one night I prayed to God most earnestly for His strengthening, healing power to rest upon me, that I might be able to write out some things that ought to be published. I then went to sleep. In the night season I seemed to be speaking to different congregations in regard to the healing, quickening power of the Holy Spirit. At half-past two I awoke. My headache was gone, and the soothing influence of the Spirit of God rested upon me. I walked the floor of my room and praised God. I then took my pen in hand and found that my mind was clear and that I could write as well as ever. Since this experience, I have written a great deal. Our Saviour is the most skilful physician in the [world]. I praise Him for the marked blessing that He bestowed upon me at this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 9)
True religion is a religion that keeps in view constantly the honor and glory of God. We are to regard our heavenly Father with holy fear and reverence. He requires of His blood-bought heritage a cheerful obedience. As we realize His great love, our hearts will be inspired with gratitude, we shall serve Him with cheerfulness, and firmly, confidently put our trust wholly in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 10)
I long to express in my life service the joy of Christ. I long to be imbued with His Spirit, that I may be a blessing to others. We have the promise, “I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear Me forever, for the good of them, and of their children after them; and I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; but I will put My fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from Me.” [Jeremiah 32:39, 40.]
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 11)
God is “great in counsel, and mighty in work.” His “eyes are open unto all the ways of the sons of men; to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” [Verse 19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 12)
May the Lord bless you and lead you to comply with my request is my earnest prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 13)
Your sister in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 139, 1904, 14)
Lt 141, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma Washington, D. C. April 27, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in LDE 106; 1MR 325; 3MR 44-45; 8MR 165. Dear children Edson and Emma,—
Here we are in Washington. A week ago last Monday, the eighteenth of April, Sara, Maggie, and I left St. Helena for Mountain View, where we spent the day. Sister Gotzian and Brother James accompanied us as far as Mountain View. Brother and Sister C. H. Jones met us at Sixteenth St. Station and went with us to Mountain View. At San Francisco we were met by several other friends, among them Brother Chittendon’s eldest daughter and her husband, Mr. Lawrence. They were married ten months ago. They called on us at our home just before we left. Mr. Lawrence is a musician and appears to be an intelligent, refined man. Mrs. Lawrence is the same impulsive, ardent, outspoken girl that she has always been.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 1)
It was rather unfortunate that the day was cold and rainy. Heavy rains fell during the greater part of the day. But we found covered carriages waiting for us at the station, and in these we drove to see the land that has been chosen as a site for the Pacific Press. We are much pleased with the location that has been selected.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 2)
We then drove to Brother C. H. Jones’s house, and here we ate our lunch. Brother Jones has not yet moved out to Mountain View, and the house is in the hands of a caretaker.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 3)
We saw that if we went to look at the land which may be purchased for school purposes, we must go in the rain. Brother Jones asked me if I dare attempt this. I told him that I was ready and waiting. So the carriage was brought, and we drove off. Brother M. E. Cady, from the Healdsburg school, was with us.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 4)
There is some thought of moving the Healdsburg school to a rural district, where the students will have more opportunity to engage in agriculture, carpentering, and other lines of manual work; and Brother Cady is on the lookout for a suitable place.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 5)
Mountain View is a town which has many advantages. It is surrounded by beautiful orchards. The climate is mild, and fruit and vegetables of all kinds can be grown. The town is not large, yet it has electric lights, mail carriers, and many other advantages usually seen only in cities.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 6)
The people of Mountain View have been very liberal with us. When they were told that our brethren were thinking of establishing the Press there, they gave them the lot on which the buildings are to be erected. The railroad officials have promised to put in a side-track so that supplies can be brought on the cars to the door of the office and goods taken from there to the various depositaries. Mountain View is on the main lines between San Francisco and Los Angeles.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 7)
One feels surprised that a place with so many advantages should not have been found before. This can be explained only by the false idea that our people have held, that our institutions should be in the cities.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 8)
At five that evening we went by train to San Jose, where we took the overland train for Washington. W. C. White and Clarence Crisler had gone to Los Angeles several days before. Clarence joined us at Los Angeles and Willie at Redlands two hours farther on.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 9)
We took berths in the tourist sleeper and found these berths quite as comfortable as those of a Pullman sleeper. I had a whole section, and the upper berth was kept closed so that I might have good ventilation.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 10)
I was very weary when I took the cars and was thankful to have so favorable an opportunity to rest. For a day or two I was quite sick; preparing for my journey had been a heavy strain upon me. I kept in my berth all the way over, sitting up in the other seats only for half an hour once or twice.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 11)
In the car, we all seemed very much like one family. Although at times there were between thirty and forty people in the car, there was no noise, no loud talking, no card-playing. All seemed like acquaintances, each interested in the other. The passengers seemed to be much interested in my welfare and showed me much kindness.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 12)
The conductor of our car was a quiet, nice-looking man of about fifty years. He seemed to understand his business well. At one station a man bought some beer at a saloon and put it in a cupboard at the end of the car. The conductor heard of this and promptly ordered the beer taken out, saying that he would allow no such thing on the car. During all the time we were on the train, I did not get one whiff of tobacco, excepting once or twice, when some one passed through the car with a lighted cigar in his hand.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 13)
Sabbath, about twelve o’clock, we reached Atlanta. I think that you must have told our people there of our coming. I was much surprised to meet between twenty or thirty of them at the station. While the train was standing still, they came on board for a few minutes. Fathers, mothers, and children gathered round my berth to shake hands with me. All united in giving me an earnest invitation to stop over and speak in the church. It was a touching scene and reminded me of former days. This scene will ever be a bright spot in my experience.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 14)
I kept very quiet all the way over and enjoyed the trip. I never traveled with less weariness, even when in a drawing-room compartment. I did not hear one coarse word during the entire journey. Nothing in any way offensive happened to leave a disagreeable remembrance.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 15)
Many inquiries were made in regard to my health. When during the day I seemed to be sleeping, the colored porter would move about very gently and quietly.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 16)
We had many pleasant interviews with the passengers. As I talked with them, I felt an earnest desire to meet them again sometime. There were several to whom I promised to send a copy of one of my books.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 17)
Willie had with him a copy of Education and of Christ’s Object Lessons, and these he passed round among the passengers. When we reached our journey’s end, he gave the books to the conductor who was much pleased with them. I wish that we had [had] more of my books with us, so that we could have given them to others.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 18)
When we were nearing Washington, and were preparing to leave the car, the conductor went round to every seat and with a kindly handclasp bade the passengers good-bye. This was something I had never before seen done. We shook hands with many of our fellow travelers as we parted. All expressed good wishes for one another. We seemed like old friends saying good-bye.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 19)
We spent Sunday morning packing up our belongings and getting ready to leave the car. Our numerous bags and satchels were piled up in one seat, and when the train drew into the station, Clarence passed them through the open window to Willie, who put them on a truck. As they were doing this, Elder Daniells came up, and we went with him out through the station to the carriage, which has been bought for future use at the sanitarium here, and which the brethren have placed at my disposal while I remain in Washington. The turnout is a very nice one and looks well worth four hundred dollars. But the horse, carriage, and harness cost only two hundred and fifty dollars. They were bought secondhand at a sale of things belonging to one of the Legations. The carriage is an easy, two-seated surrey, with a canopy top. The horse is a large, noble-looking animal, very gentle, and perfectly safe.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 20)
The carriage is the easiest one in which I have ever ridden, with the exception of the one which my husband purchased for me when I was in Oregon and he in Battle Creek. I feel greatly favored in having the use of this horse and carriage and am so thankful that the sanitarium will have so easy a carriage for their patients.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 21)
We drove directly from the station to the house which has been rented for us in Takoma Park. This is a three-storey building standing in about ten acres of land and is built on the highest rise of ground near here. Five hundred feet below and six miles away is the city of Washington, reached either by the street car or the train. The house is very comfortable. I have a room nearly as large as my room at home.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 22)
I have been all over the land which the brethren have bought here in Takoma Park. The location could not be bettered. That which is most valuable of all is the clear, beautiful stream which flows right through the land. From this creek the ground rises rather sharply, and on the top of the rise, which is quite level, there are two fine building spots, one for the sanitarium and one for the school.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 23)
The Lord’s hand is in the purchase of this land. It is true that the Takoma Park sewer farm is near our land, but this is to be moved. The main pipe will run through our land to a place about a mile below. Our sanitarium can have pipes connecting with this pipe and will thus have perfect sewerage.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 24)
The land is covered with many different kinds of trees, which make the place a very pretty one. Some thought that most of these trees ought to be taken out and all the land placed under cultivation, but this must not be done. The land, with the trees on it, resembles places which the Lord has shown me, and I cannot find words to express my gratitude to our heavenly Father for providing us with so favorable a location.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 25)
For several weeks before leaving home, I could not write much. I suffered intense pain at the base of the brain, and my eyes ached. But I rested well on the cars; and since coming here it has done me good to ride out over our land.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 26)
I am glad that we shall meet you at Berrien Springs. There are many things that I wish to talk with you about. I view the Huntsville school question very much as you do. I believe that this school will yet be a success.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 27)
I hope that you will be careful not to overwork. I do not agree with your idea of giving up all your positions of influence, but I do think that you ought to give your brain more rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 28)
I hope that my last letter did not discourage you. There was in it, I thought, much to encourage you, to show you that the Lord’s hand is over you for good, and that He is guarding your interests, so that you shall stand on vantage ground. I praise the Lord for showing me that He wants to work with you, and greatly bless you, giving you victories. He desires your life to be filled with His praise. He wants you, by faith, to see Him looking upon you with commendation. Do not make any premature movements. The Lord will let you know what His will is concerning you. Hold your confidence firm unto the end. God will set your feet in firm places if you will trust in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 29)
In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 141, 1904, 30)
Lt 143, 1904
Davis, Marian Washington, D. C. April 28, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 568; 8MR 165; 9MR 386. + My dear sister Marian,—
We are all well. We reached here Sunday morning, April 24. Since our arrival we have had several days of cloudy, threatening weather, and we long for sunshine. Rain fell yesterday and today. This rain is a precious blessing, which the Lord is sending the country; therefore we will not wish it otherwise.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 1)
The house in which we are living is out in the country, about six miles from the capitol building. There are but few houses round us. The house is built on a high rise of ground and is a large, three-storey building. In the third story Willie and Clarence have a bedroom each, and Clarence has an office room. On the second floor I have a bedroom, and Sara and Maggie have one. There is another bedroom on this floor, opening into the hall, and also into my room. There are also two small rooms on this floor, at the back, but they are hardly suitable for occupation.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 2)
I feel thankful that you and May and her family are where you are. You are more comfortable than you could be here. Fruit and vegetables are very high priced. We are glad that you are all where you will be able to get these things without paying so much for them. I suppose that the strawberries and cherries and loganberries will soon be ripe.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 3)
We have no cook. Sister Tuxford would be glad to come and help us, but so far Sara has managed, with the help of others, to do the work.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 4)
I have asked Willie when he thinks that we shall return to California, and he says that he thinks that we can go in three or four months.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 5)
I wrote very little on the cars, but rested most of the time. I hope that while we are away, you will not confine yourself too closely to your work, but that you will take time to rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 6)
I have been over the land that has been purchased in Takoma Park for school and sanitarium purposes. This land is only a short distance from our house. It is very favorably located, and the stream running through it is a treasure that gold could not buy. The water from this creek is clear and pure. God’s hand has been in the purchase of this land. It is in every way adapted for the purpose for which it will be used.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 7)
Brother and Sister Paulson and Brother and Sister Reed are at present in Washington, attending a Convention held by the Florence Crittendon Mission. This mission, as I suppose you know, is organized for the help and uplifting of abandoned women.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 8)
Light has been given me that the outside churches will make special efforts for this class, but that we are to use our means and our talents of influence in proclaiming the truth that will keep people from becoming abandoned. If we will take up the work the Lord has given us to do, the truth will reach many of this class in various ways. But we are not to neglect the lines of work that the Lord has especially directed us to carry forward. All classes are to be reached.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 9)
If those who labor for the abandoned and fallen would work in the fear of the Lord, striving to make those for whom they labor understand what is truth, many of these outcasts would be distinguished as children of God. But the idols of the heathen have been placed between heaven and earth, obscuring the view of God. The spirit of idolatry has entered the churches. The incense of true worship, which should have been offered to God, has been mingled with the worship of self. In the place of lifting their thoughts to God, in the place of learning to know Him better, men deny Him in their lives. Their attention is taken up with objects that conceal God from their view.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 10)
Thus it is with the great majority of religionists. God calls for sincere heart-worship. The door to light and an intelligent knowledge of the truth is open to every sincere worker for God. In order for worship to be acceptable, it must be offered in faith and hope, and the life must be in harmony with it. God requires the devotion of heart, mind, soul, and strength. Our noblest powers are to be used to do Him homage. Our thoughts are to be conformed to His will; our affections sanctified to His service.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 11)
The heart is the seat of moral disease, and all our work for the uplifting of humanity must begin with the heart, which is to be cleansed, refined, purified. All medical missionary endeavor is to be cleansed from selfishness and the worship of self. Oh, I am so full of this subject that I cry unto God: “Raise up and send forth messengers filled with a sense of their responsibility, messengers in whose hearts self-idolatry, which lies at the foundation of all sin, has been killed.” The hearts of the workers need cleansing. There is a mass of evil doing which never comes to light, but it will be rebuked. That which does appear is the overflowing of man’s devising, proceeding from ungodly hearts.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 12)
He who is playing the game of life for the souls of men and women works through false science, introducing ideas which set minds thinking in spiritualistic lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 13)
Let us remember that our work in every line must bear the inspection of Him whose eyes behold and try the children of men. He understands the motives that we cannot fathom. It is our privilege to behold the life of our Lord and to be changed into the same image. It is our privilege to listen to His voice, saying, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 14)
To uplift fallen human beings, Christ descended to the lowest depths of humiliation. He was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. He was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities. The chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed. Bearing our nature, He wrought out for us a character free from spot or stain of sin. In our behalf He presented to God a sacrifice to which there can be no comparison. The riches of His gifts and the vastness of His design are beyond description. All the treasures of heaven are for the striving ones. But God will not spare the unrepentant.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 15)
I call upon those who are lukewarm, neither one thing nor the other, to beware of standing in this position. Every day they are stumbling over their own faults of character. They feed on the gossip they hear, and Satan is careful to furnish them with false reports to circulate. O that they would put away their evil practices! O that they would show that repentance which needs not to be repented of and would place themselves on Christ’s side!
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 16)
God cannot endorse the work of those who claim to be Christ’s disciples, and yet strive to carry out their ambitious schemes. But He will impart light and the influence of the Holy Spirit to those who put self out of sight and give themselves to His service. As they throw their influence on the side of the truth, the Spirit of truth will work through them. By their efforts others will be brought to a knowledge of the Saviour.
(19LtMs, Lt 143, 1904, 17)
Lt 145, 1904
NA/Brother “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 15, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in LLM 39-43; CD 311; Te 248; 2SM 180; SpTB #19 26-29. My dear Brother,—
I wish to write you a few lines regarding the work in San Diego. We have long desired to see sanitarium work established at this place, not that we ourselves may be benefited, but that those who have never heard the truth may have an opportunity of hearing the last message of mercy to be given to the world. If you have known and enjoyed the comfort of the Holy Spirit, the assurance of the grace of God, the hope of the gospel of Christ, your heart must be drawn out in an earnest longing that the work may extend rapidly, while mercy’s sweet voice is still heard inviting perishing souls to come to the Saviour.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 1)
I have long looked with great interest upon the work in San Diego and Los Angeles, hoping that right moves would be made and that sanitarium work might be established. I have known the crowds of tourists who visit these places, and I have longed that men moved by the Holy Spirit might be impressed to meet these people with the message borne by John the Baptist. Of him we read, “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make His paths straight. And the same John had his garment of camel’s hair, and his meat was locusts and wild honey.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 2)
“Then went out to him Jerusalem and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” [Matthew 3:1-6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 3)
Just such a work as this needs to be done today. But many false prophets are gone forth, and there are many who bring in false doctrines. Men and women are led to walk in forbidden paths.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 4)
But the Lord has ordained that His work shall be established in many places. I have been instructed that there are buildings suitable for our work, and out of the cities, which can be purchased at a low price. The Lord has presented these buildings before me and has given light that sanitariums should be established. As the people of God, we must take advantage of the favorable opening for sanitarium work in Southern California where the climate is so favorable for this work. The Lord means that sanitariums shall be established there, and that from these sanitariums shall go forth the light of truth for this time. By them the claims of the true Sabbath are to be presented, and the third angel’s message is to be proclaimed.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 5)
We are endeavoring to carry out the instruction that the Lord has given us. Institutions in which medical missionary work can be done are to be regarded as especially essential to the advancement of the Lord’s work. The sick and suffering are to be relieved, and then, as opportunity offers, they are to be given instruction in regard to the truth for this time. Thus we can reach a class of people that we could reach in no other way. To the Sanitarium established in Southern California, people will come from far and near, from all parts of the world, because the fame of the climate there is worldwide. There are many other places in Southern California besides Los Angeles and San Diego in which sanitarium work could be started.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 6)
The buildings secured for this work should be out of the cities, in rural districts, so that as the sick recover they need not be kept inside four walls, but will be able to live as much as possible in the open air. By the beauty of field and flower, their minds will be diverted from themselves, from their aches and pains, and they will be led to look from nature to the God of nature, who has provided so abundantly the beauties of the natural world. The convalescent can lie in the shade of the trees, and those who are stronger can have flower gardens to tend, doing just a little at first, and increasing their efforts as they grow stronger. Working in the gardens, gathering flowers and fruit, listening to the birds praising God, they will be wonderfully blessed. Angels of God will draw near to them. They will forget their sorrows. Melancholy and depression will leave them. The fresh air and sunshine and the exercise will bring them life and vitality.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 7)
In our medical institutions, clear instruction should be given in regard to temperance. The patients should be shown the evil of intoxicating liquor and the blessing of total abstinence. They should be asked to discard the things that have ruined their health, and the place of these things should be supplied with an abundance of fruit. Oranges, lemons, prunes, peaches, and many other varieties can be obtained; for the Lord’s world is productive, if painstaking effort is put forth.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 8)
And as the sick are led to put forth physical effort, the wearied brain and nerves will find relief, and pure water and wholesome, palatable food will build them up and strengthen them. They will feel no need for health-destroying drugs or intoxicating drink.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 9)
But I will go no further on this line. The proclamation of truth is needed to prepare a people to stand in this time of increasing wickedness and violence. Men and women are to be shown the need of loving God supremely and keeping His commandments. There are but two classes in our world—those who keep God’s law, and who in obedience find health and peace and joy, and those who transgress, and in transgression reap the terrible results of self-indulgence. Drugged liquors are making men and women mad. The use of these liquors is filling the insane asylums. Violence and crime are rapidly increasing. In this time of iniquity, the Lord would have memorials for Him established in many places, that genuine medical missionary work may be done. In these institutions, Bible principles are to be taught. Men and women are to be healed of physical disease and are to be led to the Saviour, that they may hear Him saying, “Thy sins be forgiven thee.” [Matthew 9:2.]
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 10)
Our sanitariums are to be conducted upon principles that will meet the approbation of the great Medical Missionary who went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and healing all manner of disease among the people.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 11)
We are now called upon to show an unselfish interest in establishing sanitarium work in Los Angeles and in San Diego. Sanitariums and treatment rooms are greatly needed in these places. A work is to be done that will open the Bible to the sick and suffering and point them to the great Medical Missionary.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 12)
The establishment of institutions such as I have spoken of in this letter is the work that the Lord laid upon my husband and myself thirty-five years ago. Since then we have seen great good done in the line of gospel medical missionary work. A new and decided interest is now to be shown by our people in this work.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 13)
In the establishment and carrying forward of the work, the strictest economy is ever to be shown. Workers are to be employed who will be producers as well as consumers. In no case is money to be invested for display. The gospel medical missionary work is to be carried forward in simplicity, as was the work of the Majesty of heaven, who, seeing the necessities of a lost, sinful world, laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might stand at the head of humanity. He so conducted His missionary work as to leave a perfect example for human beings to follow. “If any man will come after Me,” He declared, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] Every true medical missionary will obey these words. He will not strain every nerve to follow worldly customs and make a display, thus thinking to win souls to the Saviour. No, no. If the Majesty of heaven could leave His glorious home to come to a world all seared and marred by the curse, to establish correct methods of doing medical missionary work, we His followers ought to practice the same self-denial and self-sacrifice.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 14)
Christ gives to all 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.] If all will wear Christ’s yoke, if all will learn in His school the lessons that He teaches, there will be sufficient means to establish gospel medical missionary work in many places.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 15)
Let none say, “I will engage in this work for a stipulated sum. If I do not receive this sum, I will not do the work.” Those who say this show that they are not wearing Christ’s yoke; they are not learning His meekness and lowliness. Christ might have come to the world with a retinue of angels; but instead He came as a babe and lived a life of lowliness and poverty. His glory was in His simplicity. He suffered for us the privations of poverty. Shall we refuse to deny ourselves for His sake? Shall we refuse to become medical missionary workers unless we can follow the customs of the world, making a display such as worldlings make? Consider the life and sufferings of the Son of the infinite God. To save a race of sinners He lived a life of poverty and self-denial. To one who asked if he might follow Him, He said, “Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head.” [Luke 9:58.] Shall those who profess to be His followers refuse to engage in the work of helping their suffering fellow beings unless they can be placed in a position that will not lessen their dignity?
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 16)
My brother, my sister, take up your work right where you are. Do your best, ever looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. In no other way can we do the work of God and magnify His truth than by following in the footsteps of Him who gave up His high command to come to our world, that through His humiliation and suffering, human beings might become partakers of the divine nature. For our sake He became poor, that through His poverty we might come into possession of the eternal riches.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 17)
It is not being rich in the wealth of the world that increases our value in God’s sight. It is the meek and the contrite that the Lord acknowledges and honors. Read the fifty-seventh chapter of Isaiah. Study this chapter carefully; for it means much to the people of God. I will make no comments upon it. If you will study it carefully and prayerfully, you will become wise unto salvation.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 18)
“Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Verse 15.]
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 19)
Read the fifty-seventh chapter, and learn the lesson that this chapter contains. These chapters are full of precious instructions.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 20)
But I will come directly to the point. My brother, we need means to advance the work at the capital of our nation. Do you not wish to have a part in the work that the Lord has given us to do? Will you not do your best to help us to secure the facilities that we must have in order to advance the work at Washington, D.C.? We wish also to establish a sanitarium at San Diego. Five miles from San Diego there is a building which seems very suitable for sanitarium work, and we are endeavoring to make arrangements to purchase this building. We have borrowed money to pay for it. We are not purchasing it to gain advantage for ourselves, but to help in carrying forward of the work that Christ has given us to do, the work outlined in the following Scripture:
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 21)
“Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, 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.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] “These signs shall follow them that believe: In My name they shall 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.” [Mark 16:17, 18.] “Ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.] “And lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 22)
Intelligent, self-denying, self-sacrificing men are now needed—men who realize the solemnity and importance of God’s work, and who as Christian philanthropists will fulfil the commission of Christ. The medical missionary work given us to do means something to every one of us. It is a work of soul-saving; it is the proclamation of the gospel message.
(19LtMs, Lt 145, 1904, 23)
Lt 147, 1904
Bowles, Brother “Carroll House,” Takoma Park, Maryland April 26, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MR 254-256. + Dear Brother Bowles,—
I have received your letter and will try to answer it. But I wish first to thank you for your kindly remembrance of me. The oranges that you sent by my son were indeed very acceptable. We enjoyed them all the way and gave some to our fellow passengers. Many of the largest we kept for our friends in Washington.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 1)
You ask my advice in regard to your future plans and how best to carry out your desire to labor for the spiritual welfare of your fellow men. The Lord knows what is best for us all. You can speak words in season to those with whom you are brought in contact wherever you are. A man may do much good wherever he is placed. While caring for your fruit, you may commune with God. You can keep your mind uplifted in prayer and may be constantly growing in grace.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 2)
I have always looked with great interest upon the work in Los Angeles and in San Diego, hoping that right moves would be made and that the sanitarium work might be established in these important places. Every year large numbers of tourists visit these places, and I have longed to see men moved by the Holy Spirit, meeting these people with the message borne by John the Baptist: “Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.]
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 3)
“This is he that was spoken of by Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” [Verse 3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 4)
“Jerusalem and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan,” went out to hear John the Baptist, “and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.” [Verses 5, 6.] Just such a work as this can be done today in Southern California.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 5)
The Lord has ordained that memorials for Him shall be established in many places. He has presented before me buildings away from the cities, and suitable for our work, which can be purchased at a low price. We must take advantage of the favorable openings for sanitarium work in Southern California where the climate is so favorable for this work.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 6)
It is the Lord’s purpose that sanitariums shall be established in Southern California, and that from these institutions shall go forth the light of truth for this time. By them the claims of the true Sabbath are to be presented and the third angel’s message proclaimed.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 7)
Institutions in which medical missionary work can be done are to be regarded as especially essential to the advancement of the Lord’s work. The sick and suffering are to be relieved, and then, as opportunity offers, they are to be given instruction in regard to the truth for this time. Thus we can bring present truth before a class of people who could be reached in no other way.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 8)
I hope that you will not encourage our brethren to think that when you sell your orange orchard, you will use all the money you receive for it in lifting the debt on the Fernando school. I am not certain that it would be best for one person to take the entire burden of lifting the school debt. There are many who would receive rich blessings in helping to free the school from its indebtedness. Christ’s Object Lessons was donated to our schools to free them from debt, and if all would do their part in selling this book, the debts on our schools would be lifted. Each one in attendance at the school should make strenuous efforts to pay his way through school. Each family throughout the Conference should act its part in helping the school. Christ designs that all shall assist in advancing the educational work. All our people should make self-denying efforts to free our schools from financial embarrassment. If the brethren will accept counsel, and will walk in simplicity and self-distrust, a way will be found out of the difficulties that now exist.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 9)
There is a special work to be done at this time—a work of great importance. Light has been given me that a sanitarium should be established near Los Angeles in some rural district. For years the need of such an institution has been kept before our people in Southern California. Had the brethren there heeded the warnings given by the Lord, to guard them from making mistakes, they would not now be tied up as they are. But they have not followed the instruction given. They have not gone forward in faith to establish a sanitarium near Los Angeles.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 10)
The buildings secured for this work should be out of the cities, in the country, so that the sick may have the benefit of outdoor life. By the beauty of flower and field, their minds will be diverted from themselves, from their aches and pains, and they will be led to look from nature to the God of nature, who has provided so abundantly the beauties of the natural world. The convalescent can lie in the shade of the trees, and those who are stronger can, if they wish, work among the flowers, doing just a little at first, and increasing their efforts as they grow stronger. Working in the garden, gathering flowers and fruit, listening to the birds praising God, the patients will be wonderfully blessed. Angels of God will draw near to them. They will forget their sorrows. Melancholy and depression will leave them. The fresh air and sunshine, and the exercise taken, will bring them life and vitality. The wearied brain and nerves will find relief. Good treatment and a wholesome diet will build them up and strengthen them. They will feel no need for health-destroying drugs or for intoxicating drink.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 11)
It is the purpose of God that a sanitarium shall be established at some suitable place near Los Angeles. This institution is to be managed carefully and faithfully by men who have clear spiritual discernment and who have, also, financial ability—men who can carry the work forward successfully, as faithful stewards.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 12)
We are to labor under the counsel of the great Master-workman. In His strength human beings can and will follow a course of action that will win souls to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 13)
The Lord is best pleased when His work is carried on in the most successful way. As union is strength, there should be organized companies to carry such responsibilities as human agencies can carry. These workers are to advance step by step in right lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 14)
Christ has put it in our power to help Him in various ways in advancing His cause in our world. We are to say: “I am not my own. I have been bought with a price, and I must strive to reach the highest standard. I am under obligations to give myself, body, soul, and spirit, to God. Christ has put it out of my power to give Him more than belongs to Him.”
(19LtMs, Lt 147, 1904, 15)
Lt 149, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Carroll House,” Takoma Park, Maryland May 2, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SpTB #6 3. + Elder G. I. Butler My dear Brother,—
I have read your article in The Watchman of April 26. I am greatly surprised to read in the latter part of the article your endorsement of the advertisement calling for young men and young women to come to the Battle Creek Sanitarium. I cannot endorse your words. The closing paragraphs of your article strike a false note, directly contrary to the message I have borne and am still bearing.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 1)
Our ministers and other laborers are not to deviate from the line of duty and righteousness to conciliate or serve in any way the work that has been brought about by human agencies, contrary to the counsel of the Lord, thus creating an influence that the Lord has declared to be dangerous to our youth.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 2)
We have no message to advise students to go to Battle Creek, to be leavened by the insinuations that have been and are still being introduced to weaken confidence in our ministers and our message. There are those who, whenever they can get an opportunity, are sowing the seeds of evil insinuations. And when temptation comes, those in whose minds these seeds have been sown will be wrought upon to divert others from the truths that the Lord has been urging us to bear to the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 3)
Your letters to me have shown that you understood the work in progress at Battle Creek to unsettle the minds of our people in the foundation of our faith; and I am therefore more than surprised that you should now express such sentiments as those contained in your article in The Watchman. I must tell you that such advice is premature and ill-advised. If you have read Volume 8, how can you bear a message so opposed to it? In this book plain instruction is given in regard to our youth going to Battle Creek. My brother, if you have read this instruction, how can you seek to remove the barriers that the Lord has charged me to erect to keep our people from continuing to make Battle Creek a center? Why could you not have withheld your article until we had counselled together and after consideration and earnest prayer had decided what to do. Before we can consent to send our youth to Battle Creek, we must see what course Dr. Kellogg intends to pursue.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 4)
Recently I received a letter from a sister whose husband is a laborer in the South, asking if it would be right for them to leave their field of labor and take a course in the Battle Creek Sanitarium. As I read this letter, I said, “I will not answer it just now. I will wait until the time has come to speak. Brethren Haskell, Butler, Prescott, and Daniells will be at Berrien Springs. There we shall counsel together and go over matters with prayerful, humble, contrite hearts.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 5)
We must move unitedly if we would glorify God. At the Oakland Conference, light was given that the very first step to be taken was a thorough investigation of the standing of the Battle Creek Sanitarium. I have supposed that before now such an investigation would be called for. I have assured many that they must not worry, telling them that something would be done soon to ascertain the true standing of the institution. To the leading men in the medical work I have written of the need for such an investigation, but nothing has been done.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 6)
I am continually receiving letters from our people, asking in regard to their children’s going to Battle Creek to work in the Sanitarium. For years God has been calling our people out of Battle Creek, and the instruction given me is that He will never counsel them to make Battle Creek an educational center. This is contrary to His plan. The whole field needs to be worked; and the calling of our youth from all parts of the field to the Battle Creek Sanitarium robs the field of its workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 7)
While the Battle Creek problem stands as it is, no notices should be inserted in our papers which will take down the bars that hinder our young people from centering in Battle Creek.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 8)
My brother, I do not believe that you would willingly utter or write words that would add to my burdens. I write this lest something more shall appear in The Watchman along the same lines as the one you have already written. I do not want you to lose the confidence of our people.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 9)
I know the undercurrent that is at work. I know of some things that are being done in secret. I tell you that when certain of these things appear as they are, you would not desire to be responsible for that which you are now inclined to write. Be still, and know that the Lord, He is God. He will work out all problems to the glory of His name. He will be the defense of His people.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 10)
My soul is deeply burdened. I shall now be obliged to speak as publicly as you have spoken—which I hoped I should not be obliged to do—and say to our people, “The Lord is not in the movement to gather our young people to Battle Creek.”
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 11)
My brother, when you have studied Volume 8 carefully, I think you will not want to repeat the things you have said in this article. Does not the Lord want those at Battle Creek to understand what was meant by the purging of His institutions by fire? Shall we make of no account that which is the work of God?
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 12)
If Dr. Kellogg ever finds his way to the light, it will not be through those who encourage him in his present attitude or through those who try to draw our best workers to Battle Creek when the Lord has instructed us that He desires them to labor in places where the truth has not yet been proclaimed.
(19LtMs, Lt 149, 1904, 13)
Lt 151, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Carroll House,” Takoma Park, Maryland May 4, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SpTB #6 25. Dear Brother Butler,—
The Lord is looking upon you with the tenderest pity and love. Do not look to man, but look to God. Hold fast the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. The Lord God omnipotent reigneth.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 1)
Come to the Berrien Springs meeting prepared to stand firm for the right. There are stern, decided battles to fight. Dr. Kellogg is seeking to draw as many good workers as possible to Battle Creek, to labor with all their might, that his image, as seen in the glory and wonderful success of the mammoth Sanitarium, may be approved and honored.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 2)
In the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, it was to the Hebrew captives, those who felt that they were exiles in a strange land, and that God was their only dependence, that the Lord opened the glory that they had in heaven. He did not show this to those who were charmed with the splendor of Babylon.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 3)
Today He desires to teach His medical missionaries the precious lessons of heaven. To those who refuse to be charmed by the things of time and sense, He will reveal the treasures of eternity. To those who will come out from the world and be separate, faithfully performing the duties assigned them, will be opened the glories of the eternal world.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 4)
After giving the wonderful dream to Nebuchadnezzar, the first thing God did in its interpretation was to silence the wise men of Babylon. They were placed where they had to acknowledge their inability to revive in the mind of the king his forgotten dream. In many ways God can show the wisdom of men to be folly, in order that man may not glory in his wisdom. The Chaldean magicians were placed where they had to acknowledge the inefficiency of their scientific power, so that God could show the superior wisdom possessed by those who worship Him. He sought to lead princes and people from broken cisterns to the living fountain, by revealing the divine science of eternity.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 5)
Daniel told the dream and the interpretation to Nebuchadnezzar. The words, “Thou art this head of gold” [Daniel 2:38], made a deep impression on the king’s mind, and he resolved to make an image which would be all gold to represent himself. This image he caused to be set up in the plain of Dura and gave command that at a certain time all were to fall down and worship it. But the Hebrew captives refused to obey, saying to the king: “O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning, fiery furnace, and He will deliver us out of thy hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.” [Daniel 3:16-18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 6)
The story is familiar to all. God’s faithful servants were delivered, and the king’s wrath was turned into praise and thanksgiving to Jehovah.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 7)
Nebuchadnezzar erected the image to gain glory for himself. A king has power, and when this power is allied to goodness, it is exerted in harmony with the divine will. But when it is allied to evil, it leads to sins that God will visit with His chastisement.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 8)
My brother, I want you to understand that the Battle Creek Sanitarium was erected against the expressed will of God. Presidents of conferences and others were consulted, it is true, and they assented to the plans presented, because they did not desire to differ with the leader of the medical work when they could possibly agree with him. And besides, they had not received all the messages that he had received. Those who had not seen the testimonies that the leaders in the medical work had seen were not responsible for what they did not know.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 9)
The experience that we have passed through since the Conference of 1901 has been a complicated one, and thus our experience will continue to be. Just as long as the managers of the Sanitarium try to make Battle Creek a great center, so long will they call for men and women and ministers to do the work which they cannot do. How can we encourage the plans to gather our youth into Battle Creek, when our heavenly Father has said that this place is not to be made a great center for educational work? Those educated there have not been receiving a training that will rightly prepare them to engage in the work of God. Seeds of doubt and of opposition to the testimonies have been sown. Better far would it have been for the future of our work if those who have received their education in Battle Creek had been educated where the spiritual atmosphere is purer.
(19LtMs, Lt 151, 1904, 10)
Lt 153, 1904
Fellow Workers “Carroll House,” Takoma Park, Maryland May 10, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in ST 06/15/1904. Dear Fellow Workers,—
With gratitude I acknowledge the tender care of my heavenly Father and thank Him for the blessings that He has bestowed upon me since we left St. Helena. The journey across the continent, which I dreaded so much, was pleasant, and I rested all the way. And since I reached Washington, my health has been better than it was for many months before.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 1)
We are pleasantly situated at Takoma Park. Within fifteen minutes’ walk are the homes of brethren Daniells, Prescott, Washburn, Spicer, Curtiss, Bristol, Rogers, Needham, Cady, and others connected with our work.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 2)
The way is opening rapidly for the beginning of our work. For this I am very thankful. As I look at the situation and the prospects here, I am filled with hope and courage. We shall endeavor to respond to the favoring providences that attend us by pressing forward with the work as speedily as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 3)
The location that has been secured for our school and sanitarium is all that could be desired. The land resembles representations that have been presented before me by the Lord. It is well adapted for the purpose for which it is to be used. There is on it ample room for a school and a sanitarium, without crowding either institution. The atmosphere is pure, and the water is pure. A beautiful stream runs right through our land from north to south. This stream is a treasure more valuable than gold or silver. The building sites are upon fine elevations, with excellent drainage.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 4)
One day we took a long drive through various parts of Takoma Park. A large part of the township is a natural forest. The houses are not small, and crowded closely together, but roomy and comfortable. They are surrounded by thrifty, second-growth pines, oaks, maples, and other beautiful trees.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 5)
The owners of these houses are mostly business men, many of them clerks in the government offices in Washington. They go to the city daily, returning in the evening to their quiet homes.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 6)
A good location for the printing office has been chosen, within easy distance of the post office; and a site for a meeting house, also, has been found. It seems as if Takoma Park had been specially prepared for us, and that it has been waiting to be occupied by our institutions and their workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 7)
My hopes for this place are high. The country for miles and miles around Washington is to be worked from here. I am so thankful that our work is to be established in this place. Were Christ upon the ground, He would say: “Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.” [John 4:35.] We have a work to do in leading precious souls onward step by step. Many will have to be taught line upon line, precept upon precept. The truth of God will be applied, by the Spirit’s power, to the heart and conscience. We must present the truth in love and faith and hope and courage.
(19LtMs, Lt 153, 1904, 8)
Lt 155, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Carroll House,” Takoma Park, Maryland May 8, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 354; 8MR 97. + Dear Brother Butler,—
Do not be worried or troubled because an extraordinary effort is being made in Washington. We must obey the directions given by the Lord. If we had not taken up the work as we have, others would have occupied the field. If you could know all, you would realize that we have not come to Washington any too soon, and that our most earnest efforts are none too great.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 1)
The Lord calls upon His workmen to open new fields. I find in Takoma Park, where our buildings are to be located, a large settlement made up of people who live here and work in Washington. There is no saloon in the town. Not one of the members of the Town Council drinks liquor, smokes or chews tobacco, or uses profane language. This place must now be worked.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 2)
The situation here fills me with hope and courage. We know that the Lord desires us to go forward as speedily as possible with the work before us.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 3)
The location that has been secured for our school and sanitarium is all that could be desired. The atmosphere is pure, and the water is pure. A beautiful stream runs right through our land from north to south. This stream is a treasure more valuable than gold or silver. The building sites are upon fine elevations, with excellent drainage.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 4)
There were many things to be considered in choosing a location for our printing office and for our sanitarium. We knew that everything must be in accordance with the light given; and we praise the Lord for guiding us to this place.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 5)
It is true that the Takoma Park sewer farm is close to our land; but this farm is to be moved a mile to the south. It will be three thousand feet from our buildings. Arrangements have been completed for this to be done this summer. Pipes from our buildings can be connected with the main sewer pipe, and we shall thus have a perfect sewer system. This is most important. The atmosphere round our sanitariums must ever be kept pure and sweet. The instruction given to the managers of our sanitariums, to correct wrong methods in regard to sewerage, has been repeated again and again. But it has been a difficult matter to make some understand. Above all other places, a health institution should have a perfect sewerage system, and its air and water should be absolutely free from impurity.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 6)
Much has been said in disparagement of our land here in Takoma Park because of the nearness of the sewer farm. But as I have already said, this farm is to be removed.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 7)
We have had very clear instruction regarding the danger of polluted atmosphere to life and health; and we hope never to be guilty of the least carelessness in this respect. No pains or money should be spared to secure perfect sewer arrangement in connection with our schools and sanitariums. Message after message in regard to this matter has been given to those bearing responsibilities in our institutions. I have been plainly instructed that carelessness or neglect in regard to sanitary conditions, in the home or in public buildings, means a withdrawal of the blessing of God. Special directions in reference to sanitary arrangements were given to the children of Israel. Every person was strictly charged to keep his dwelling and his premises clean, lest the Lord, passing by, should see uncleanness and should remove His presence from those who were careless or indifferent.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 8)
The work here is to be a representation of the work that can be done in other parts of the South. It is to give a clear representation of the principles of truth held by Seventh-day Adventists.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 9)
Brother Butler, come to the Berrien Springs meeting. There is earnest work to be done there. Come prepared to help. I wish you could read the pitiful letters coming to me from mothers who have taught their children the truth for this time, and who have always believed the testimonies, telling me that the seeds of unbelief sown in Battle Creek are undermining the confidence of their children in the truths, which lie at the foundation of the Seventh-day Adventist belief, and that their confidence in the testimonies has been greatly weakened. I have a great desire that you shall not make movements that will have to be counterworked. I have in every way tried to prepare the way before you, and I believe that the Lord will work through you and Elder Haskell in the meeting at Berrien Springs.
(19LtMs, Lt 155, 1904, 10)
Lt 157, 1904
Nelson, Sister [M. J.] “Carroll House,” Takoma Park, Maryland April 28, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 4MR 24; 5MR 119; 5Bio 324. Dear Sister Nelson,—
I am thankful to be able to report that my health is very good. I have a nice, comfortable room, almost as large as my office room at home. The room has four large windows, and is on the second floor. It has in it two bureaus, a washstand, a center table, several chairs, and a bed.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 1)
The house is large, but would not be at all suitable for two families. There are four rooms on the third floor. W. C. White and Clarence each have a sleeping room on this floor, and Clarence has an office. On the second floor there are three large bedrooms and two smaller rooms at the back. Sara and Maggie sleep in one of the larger rooms, and I have one. Maggie does her writing in one of the back rooms. On the first floor there is a small sitting room and a large dining room, with a kitchen and pantry. Across from the sitting room there is a very large room, which W. C. White uses as an office, and in which the brethren hold their committee meetings.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 2)
The rent of the house is high—fifty dollars a month—and we shall not keep it any longer than we can possibly help.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 3)
It has rained almost every day since we came. Sunday and Monday were cloudy, but not wet. But we have not yet had a really bright day.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 4)
I have been to see the land that has been purchased. The location is very good. There are two beautiful building sites on it, something like the rise of ground on which Willie’s house is built. Right through the land, from north to south, flows a beautiful stream of water, which is worth more than gold to us. The water has been analyzed by experts and has been pronounced pure.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 5)
You may be assured that we shall return to California as soon as possible. I expect that by next September we shall once more sit under our own vine and fig tree.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 6)
May 10, 1904
I wrote you the foregoing and thought that I had given it to the girls to be mailed, but I found it in my room today. I can assure you that I would very much like to be in my own home again. We miss our canned fruit; but we have an abundance of good food, and I will be thankful and will not grieve the Spirit of God by repinings and ingratitude.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 7)
When we arrived here, the trees in the woods had hardly begun to put out their leaves. Now they are all green. Near the house there are several very large lilac bushes. The buds on these were just beginning to swell when we came. Now the bushes are in full bloom, and the air is filled with fragrance.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 8)
This place pleases us more than many places would. Our house stands on a high rise of ground, and from the windows of the third storey we can on a clear day look for miles and miles over the country.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 9)
Yesterday afternoon we planned to drive to a place called Wildwood, but we had a thunderstorm and could not go. We shall go this afternoon perhaps.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 10)
Yesterday I had a visit from Elder Sheafe, who has charge of the church here in which both white and colored people assemble. He came to ask me to speak in this church next Sabbath. He will invite the members of the colored church to be present. Some little difficulty in regard to the color line exists here, but we hope that by the grace of God things will be kept in peace. Under the labors of Elder Sheafe, many colored people in this city have accepted the truth. Sixteen were baptized the Sabbath before last, and seven last Sabbath. I was only too glad to promise that I would speak in the church next Sabbath.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 11)
Last Sabbath I spoke in our new church. The building was rededicated, and I was asked to preach the dedicatory sermon. The Lord helped me, giving me words to speak which I am told were wholly satisfactory.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 12)
I hope that you will all be greatly blessed by the Lord. In our seasons of family worship my petitions ascend for you all. Be of good courage in the Lord. Glorify Him by praise and thanksgiving.
(19LtMs, Lt 157, 1904, 13)
Lt 159, 1904
James, Iram “Carroll House,” Takoma Park, Maryland May 10, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 16MR 185-187. Dear Brother James,—
I have just read your letter to Willie. Thank you for writing. You will not be surprised when I tell you that I miss you all very much. Separation does not mean forgetting.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 1)
I am glad to hear that you have bought a horse and that you are pleased with him. I hope that he will work as well in the buggy as he does on the farm.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 2)
Could you not try the Hizerman boy on the farm? I am anxious that he shall be helped. But do as your judgment says in regard to this.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 3)
It seems very much like home here, with open ground all round us, and the cherry trees in full bloom behind the house. But we can not look forward to having sweet corn and tomatoes from the place as we could were we at home. But we will not wish ourselves at home. We must feel grateful for this pleasant place. Still, it is well that no others came with us. They would miss the conveniences and comforts of home.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 4)
The work on our buildings will soon begin in earnest. It has taken till the end of last week to get all the business arrangements completed, leaving nothing at loose ends. We hope that now steady advancement will be made. Four good horses have been purchased to do the teaming and the necessary work on the land to prepare it for the buildings.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 5)
I pray that the Lord will help in every line of work, in every business transaction, that the principles of Christ may be carried out. There must be no unfair dealing. God’s workers are to do to others as they would be done by. It has been most painful to see those who profess to believe present truth following in their business transactions a course directly opposed to the directions that the Lord gave Moses to give to the children of Israel. We are to carry out these principles. We are to be representatives of truth and righteousness. We are called to be sons and daughters of God, to live the Christ life.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 6)
May the Lord bless you abundantly, my brother, in your home. The charge I have to give you is: Do not load yourself down with so many burdens that you will fail to do your duty to your children. I do not write these words as a reproach, but as a reminder. If anything must be neglected, let it be the care of inanimate things. Keep your own soul fresh and pure and uplifted. If you give your children the attention they need, some things may have to be neglected. Then let them be. Your children are building characters for time and for eternity, and you must make no mistakes in dealing with them. Be assured that I will not censure you for anything left undone on the farm.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 7)
May the peace of God abide in your home. May His blessing rest upon your little flock. They are lambs of His fold and must be nurtured and cherished. Do not overwork. Do not strain every nerve and muscle to try to do everything that there is to do on the farm, but get help.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 8)
May the Lord abundantly bless you and your wife and children.
(19LtMs, Lt 159, 1904, 9)
Lt 161, 1904
Butler, G. I. Berrien Springs, Michigan May 18, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5Bio 320. + Elder G. I. Butler Dear Brother,—
I have received your letter, also one from Edson. All that I can say now is, You should both be at this meeting. You may already be on the way. I hope so. I know not what I may be called upon to say to those assembled. But I am here and am expected to speak every forenoon at eleven o’clock.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 1)
One thing is certain: We need the clearest evidence of what the Lord would have us do. I will not dare to take responsibilities that He does not place on me. I see a work to be done in Washington and Takoma Park. I see there a class of people who have ears to hear and who stand among the highway hearers. As to fighting my way through in any place or on any subject whatsoever, this I shall refuse to do. If I can quietly bear my testimony, I will do that. But if going to Nashville means that I am to take burdens like those that I have been carrying ever since I came to America, I shall simply decline to go.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 2)
God forbid that these precious days shall be occupied in strife and contention. I will not consent to engage in this work. I shall pray the Lord to let me die rather than that I should live any longer with my mind wrought up as it has been, unable to be used for weeks together.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 3)
I do not want to say or do anything at Battle Creek. I have had an urgent invitation to go there and speak to the patients and to the young people. Some speak as if the Lord had wrought for His people in that place. I hope that He has, and I hope that He may continue to work for them. But I may not go to Battle Creek at all. I certainly shall not go if I can avoid it.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 4)
In order for my life to be spared, I shall have to be released from these burdens of contention that harass my soul so terribly. I know that I have a work to do in speaking to unbelievers in the city of Washington. Just as soon as I stand up to talk before those who have not heard the truth, I am greatly blessed by the Lord. And this shall be my work after I return to Washington. And after returning to California, I shall feel it my duty to labor for a time among unbelievers in Los Angeles and San Diego.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 5)
I am writing this seated on my bed, before any one in the house is stirring.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 6)
If our ministers can come together and treat each other as they should, overcoming their prejudices, ceasing their thrusts and surmisings, and putting off the war armor, some courage will come into our ranks.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 7)
I am resolved never again to imperil my brain as it has been imperilled. I will hope and pray and trust in my heavenly Father, who has wrought for me once more, when for weeks I thought that my brain power was gone beyond recovery. If I have any more such terrible experiences as I have had since coming to America, I shall be placed where I am beyond recovery. The Lord wrought for me in my own room at St. Helena, when the condition of my brain seemed beyond hope. In great distress I called upon the Lord. Night after night I labored in prayer. I said, “Lord, I cannot go to Washington. If you have a work for me to do there, I beseech Thee to deliver me.”
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 8)
I wrote to W. C. White, telling him that I could not go to Washington or to any place where I would be among believers who would lay their burdens on me.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 9)
Well, the Lord drew nigh. The change came instantly. The peace of Christ filled my heart, and my brain was entirely relieved. I was at rest. I started for Washington, stopping for a day on the way at Mountain View and looking at the place in a rainstorm. The moving of the Press is a right move.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 10)
During the whole journey I had none of the old, fearful pain in brain and nerve. I ended the journey comfortably and feeling well. I spoke three times while in Washington. Every time I went to the stand in fear and trembling, but God sustained me.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 11)
I did not want to come to Berrien Springs, but I am here, and I shall endeavor to stand before the people every day. But I will not touch any subject that will bring a burden upon my brain-nerve power.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 12)
Now, I have related to you the experience through which I have passed. If I can possibly avoid it, I will not run such a risk again.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 13)
I am hoping to see a change at this meeting. If this is the time to unify, then let us make every effort to place ourselves where we shall be one, as Christ is one with the Father. If this is done, we may expect to see the salvation of God. If it is not done, my labors henceforth will not be among our churches, but in new places, speaking to unbelievers, before whom I have the power of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 14)
I shall send a copy of this letter to Elder Haskell and to Edson.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 15)
In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 161, 1904, 16)
Lt 163, 1904
Hall, L. M. Elkhart, Indiana May 16, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in MRmnt 121; 5Bio 330. Dear Sister Hall,—
Here we are in a hotel. I suppose Clarence told you that our train started at half-past seven from Washington instead of half-past six. We reached Milford Junction just five minutes too late to catch the train for Berrien Center. We had to wait at Milford Junction for five hours. The tobacco smoke in the station was very annoying to me, and Willie found a lady living about five minutes’ walk from the station who said that I might stay in her house while I waited. This lady, Mrs. Muntz, lives by herself, and she made Sara and Maggie and me feel very much at home in her sitting room, which has, among other furniture, several old-fashioned rocking chairs.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 1)
Mrs. Muntz is an elderly lady and is a Dunkard, or a German Baptist. She is a very pleasant woman and seemed to enjoy talking with us. She says that she respects all Christians. I spoke about the work we are trying to do, and her face brightened as I told her something of our efforts to do missionary work. She told me that were her husband living, he would enjoy talking with me; for he was a very religious man and a great reader. I told her that I was a writer of books and employed several helpers, and she was much interested.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 2)
While we were talking, a young woman with a child in her arms came in, and we soon found out that she was a Seventh-day Adventist. She was much interested in what I told them about our work in Washington and other places. She is the wife of the night operator at Milford Junction and the only Sabbathkeeper in the place, I think.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 3)
Another neighbor came in during the evening and in the course of the conversation asked me if I would explain to her about the Sabbath. I began by reading a text in the first of Genesis. Then I read the fourth commandment. When I had read this, they said, “Yes, but Sunday is the seventh day.” I explained to them that Sunday is the first day, and that the day called Saturday by the world is the seventh day. Then I read the last six verses of the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, where the Sabbath is clearly specified as the sign between God and His people.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 4)
I had not time to say much, but what I read was sufficient, I hope, to lead them to search the Scriptures for themselves. I told them that Christ kept the Sabbath, and that the women rested on the seventh day, “according to the commandment,” and on the first day of the week brought spices and ointment to His sepulcher. [Luke 23:56; 24:1.]
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 5)
I read several other texts, and Mrs. Muntz wrote down all the references as I gave them.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 6)
Before we parted, we had a season of prayer together, and they seemed to appreciate this greatly.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 7)
At half-past nine we went over to the station, the three women accompanying us. The night was dark and foggy, and Mrs. Muntz brought her lantern to light us over. I introduced her to Elder Daniells and Professor Prescott. As she kissed me goodbye, she said, “If you ever come this way again, you must call on me. I shall be so glad to see you.”
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 8)
This was our experience at Milford Junction. We think that perhaps our delay was in the providence of God. It may be the means of arousing an interest in the truth. We need workers in every place, and we need, O so much, the deep moving of the Spirit of God. May the Lord help us to teach our people in every place how to work for Him, is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 9)
We waited in the station at Milford Junction till nearly eleven o’clock. Half an hour’s ride on the train brought us to this place. We came directly to a hotel, and by about twelve o’clock we were all in bed. It was sometime before I could get to sleep, and I woke at about half-past three.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 10)
Berrien Springs, Tuesday morning. It is eleven o’clock, and we have just reached here. We found no one to meet us at Berrien Center, so we came out in two hacks. We are living in Brother Magan’s house, and we are very comfortable.
(19LtMs, Lt 163, 1904, 11)
Lt 165, 1904
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W. Berrien Springs, Michigan May 20, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in SpTB #2 30-35. + Dear Brethren Daniells and Prescott,—
Yesterday a very strong impression came upon me that now is our time to save Dr. Kellogg. We must now work with determined effort. We must not subscribe the precise steps he must take, but we must lay hold of the man himself and let him see that the Spirit of God and the Spirit of soul-saving are in us. Satan has worked to bind him up with himself, but shall we stand by and make no effort to pull him away from Satan? Shall we not, in the name of the Lord, call for Dr. Kellogg to come to this meeting, not that we may make accusations against him, but that we may help him, and all of us draw with Christ?
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 1)
Not one of us is above temptation. There is a work that Dr. Kellogg is educated to perform as no other man in our ranks can perform it; and if he will draw nigh to God, God will draw nigh to him. We are to draw with all our power, not making accusations, not prescribing what he must do, but letting him see that we are not willing that any should perish, but that every man should have that which Christ died to present to him—eternal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 2)
Is it not worth the trial? Satan is drawing him, but last night I saw a hand reached out to clasp his hand, and the words were spoken: “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me. Satan is striving for the victory. I will help Dr. Kellogg to stand on vantage ground, and every soul who loves Me must work with Me. As he sees Me do, so he must do.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 3)
“Here is a point: Leave the individuality of the man for God to work with at the present time. Every one needs to remember that Christ will pardon all transgression and all sin, because He came to save those that were lost.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 4)
To all—for there were many looking on—He said, “Look not on this man, but look on Me. I gave My life to save him unto eternal life. He has dishonored Me. It is My name that must be honored as a sin-pardoning Saviour. I will open blind eyes.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 5)
“Take heed, every soul, take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a women with child; and they shall not escape.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 6)
Then the Saviour stretched out His hand, saying: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day. If ye be obedient to the knowledge ye have received from My word, then, walking according to My word, ye are the children of the day. Ye are not of the night, nor of darkness; therefore ye are not to sleep as do others, but to watch and be sober. Walk as children of the day. You all need a more earnest hold upon heavenly things. All need the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. You have not already attained, neither are you now perfect. A work of purification is to be done in your souls; then your lives will demonstrate that you are pressing toward the mark of the prize of your high calling in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 7)
“Every man needs to walk humbly with God. Grow in grace and in a knowledge of God and your Saviour Jesus Christ. By looking unto your Saviour, beholding with open face as in a glass the glory of the Lord, you will be changed into the same image, from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. As I work with you and you abide in Me, you will reveal perfection of character. You will be made perfect in one. John Kellogg, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, that you may see that of your own self you can do nothing. You cannot possibly atone for your own sins. Through faith in Christ Jesus purify your soul from all dross, and reveal the righteousness of Christ, which is of God by faith. Christ has marked your desires when His Spirit has striven with you.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 8)
Then John Kellogg exclaimed: “I am sinful, but He hath covered me with His own righteousness, and henceforth I will go in the strength of the Lord God. Henceforth I will make mention of Thy righteousness, even of Thine only.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 9)
Confessions were made, and the words were spoken by Christ, “Unless you walk in all humility of mind, Satan will obtain the victory.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 10)
Dr. Kellogg exclaimed, “He hath broken the bands of Satan; He hath covered me with the robe of His righteousness. I will go in the strength of the Lord God. I will make mention of Thy righteousness.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 11)
A hand was laid upon the hand of Dr. Kellogg and upon the hand of Willie Kellogg, and the Saviour said: “I have not been unmindful of your struggles; but ye would not come unto Me that ye might have life. Take My yoke upon you, and unite with your brethren, all of whom need to wear My yoke. 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. Ye were sometimes in darkness, because you did not wear My yoke. If you will wear My yoke and learn of Me, you will henceforth reveal My meekness and lowliness. Ye were sometimes darkness, but henceforth you are to be children of the light. If you will keep hold of My strength, you will be all light in the Lord. Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. All things that are reproved are made manifest by the light.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 12)
Christ took the hands of both John Kellogg and Willie Kellogg, and said, “Awake to your responsibilities, but take on yourselves fewer burdens than you have taken in the past. Awake, thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee spiritual light. See that you both walk unitedly. I will be your sufficiency. Do you walk in your own strength, but with the sense that I am your helper? See, then, that ye walk circumspectly.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 13)
Then His hand was laid upon the hands of Elder Daniells, and Elder Prescott, and W. C. White, and the words were spoken: “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom. The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. The Word of God is quick and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of the strongholds of the enemy, casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringeth into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 14)
Then He turned to the gospel medical missionaries, and said: “Ye strike too low. There is a broader work for you to do. Leave the smaller work for those who need the experience, but teach them all to be ever reaching a higher standard. Keep your souls in the love of God. Broaden your work. Teach those who know not the truth. The cities are to be worked. All the work to be done God will open before those who are striving to save souls perishing in their sins. There are various lines of work; but unite, unite in perfect harmony. This is your safety and your wisdom and your strength.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 15)
“Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump—the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name. The Lord your God proveth you, to know whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul. He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. Every man’s work shall be made manifest; for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire, and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 16)
“Unify. Your unbelief and lack of unity have been a standing reproach to the people of God, who have been given such great light. The pride of the human heart has dishonored the greatest work ever committed to mortals. Unify; come into the sanctifying circle of truth. Draw together; walk humbly with God; and be subject one to another, according to the light of the Word. Let no man seek to be the greatest. This has been an offense to God. Press together, and heed every word of God that will create oneness. Avoid all fault-finding and dissension. Perplexing matters will adjust themselves if each one will walk circumspectly.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 17)
“As you seek to reach the highest standard, I will turn My hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin. I will melt them and try them. Put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. You are to be one. Strive no longer to be first. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Read the first twelve verses of the second chapter of First Peter. God gave these words through His servant. Let all help their brethren to be one as Christ is one with the Father.”
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 18)
I can write no more now. I am bidden to present this to my brethren, for them to carry to others, who are not at this meeting. Work with all diligence in harmony with Christ. We have not a moment to spend in contention. Every soul is to be hidden with Christ in God. There is to be a time of trouble such as was not since there was a nation. Those who have any realization of this will not regard it as a virtue to make little differences a hindrance to their own spirituality and to the advancement of the work of God. Let the Lord’s entrusted means be put in operation, that new fields may be opened. Let lines of work be set in operation to warn the cities and villages as fast as possible; for the time will soon be upon us when the enemy will imbue all wicked men with his devising. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him, and He will show them His covenant. God calls upon His people to assist with their means, that in the places which He has specified should be worked, there may be wise men to carry the work forward.
(19LtMs, Lt 165, 1904, 19)
Lt 167, 1904
Santee, Brother; Owen, Brother “Carroll Avenue,” Takoma Park, Maryland April 27, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SpTB #3a 14-15; 7MR 138. Dear Brethren Santee and Owen,—
I have received a letter from Brother Bowles, in which he expresses a desire to sell his place and to give himself wholly to the Lord’s work. He writes to ask my counsel. He says that your advice to him is to sell his orange orchard and use the money in lifting the debt of the Fernando school.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 1)
If Brother Bowles could sell his orange orchard, he could lend his money to different lines of the work of God. But it would not be wisdom for him to invest all his means in one enterprise.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 2)
Diligent efforts should be made to lessen the debt resting on the school, but these efforts should be made by all. I have supposed that Christ’s Object Lessons, handled discreetly, would do much toward relieving our schools from debt, and I believe that this book will yet be the means of doing much to help the Fernando school.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 3)
I do not see the wisdom of the school depending on the second tithe to meet so much of its expenses. I fear that if the brethren rely so much upon this, difficulties will arise. You should labor patiently to develop those industries by which students can partly work their way through school.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 4)
Let each family try to pay the expense of the students that it sends to school. Some families, in which there are several children attending school, will be hard pressed. Would it not be wisdom to create a fund by the sale of Christ’s Object Lessons for the assistance of such ones? There are many young people who desire to be in school, and who ought to be, but who have no means. These young people can be helped through school if our people will do their duty in handling Object Lessons.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 5)
The purchase of the school buildings at Fernando was in the order of God. Valuable property was obtained at a price far below its original cost. The brethren did right to buy it, and the school can be sustained if the families of believers in Southern California will do their best to make it a success. The young men and women who expect to attend school should do all in their power, before entering the school, to earn money to meet their expenses.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 6)
A Special Work
There is a special work to be done just now. A sanitarium should be established near Los Angeles. My brethren, will you not remember that it is the expressed will of God that this shall be done? Why this work should be delayed from year to year is a great mystery. This is a matter that has long been kept before you, my brethren. Again and again sanitarium work has been pointed out as an important means of reaching the people with the truth. Had the light given by God been followed, this institution might now be in running order, exerting a strong influence for good. Arrangements could have been made to utilize for sanitarium work buildings already erected.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 7)
In order for successful work to be done in the field or in our institutions, workers with harmonious elements of character are needed. The work can be carried forward only by patience and harmony of action. It has been a lack of harmony, a lack of determination on the part of the workers to lift with one purpose in view, that has delayed the establishment of a sanitarium in Southern California. There has been so much variance that means which should have been invested in a sanitarium have been turned into other channels.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 8)
The idea that a sanitarium should not be established unless it could be started free from debt has put the brake upon the wheels of progress. In building meetinghouses, I have had to borrow money in order that something might be done at once. I have been obliged to do this in order to fulfil the directions of God. For the last twenty years I have been borrowing money and paying interest on it to establish schools and sanitariums and to build meeting houses. The institutions thus established and the churches built have been the means of winning many to the truth. Thus the tithe has been increased, and workers have been added to the Lord’s forces.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 9)
Will my brethren consider this, and work in accordance with the light God has given us? Let that which should be done be done without delay. Do your best to remedy the neglect of the past. The word has come once more that a sanitarium is to be set in working order near Los Angeles. If this sanitarium is conducted in harmony with the will of God, it will be a means of great blessing, a means in the Lord’s hands of leading souls to the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 10)
If Brother Bowles can sell his farm, would it not be well for him to invest a part of his means in the establishment of this institution? He would then have the satisfaction of knowing that his money is helping to advance a most important line of work.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 11)
Christ’s Object Lessons
I wish to say a few words more about the circulation of Christ’s Object Lessons. My brethren, show our people what they can do in handling this book. As tourists from all parts of the world flock into Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California, let there be those who can call their attention to this book. It is full of precious truth, and as it is presented to unbelievers, angels of God will impress many to buy it. Let those who do this work keep in mind the words, “As unto the Lord.” [Colossians 3:23.] The purpose for which it is done will invest this work with a dignity that will improve the habits, the manners, and the address of the workers. By this effort the poorest, humblest worker is linked with the great Master Worker.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 12)
In order to be ready to receive the impressions of the Holy Spirit, in order to advance in harmony with the will of the Lord, we need consecrated minds and hearts. Let not human beings seek to put their own plans and preferences in the place of God’s plans. Those who do this will hinder the Lord’s work. Let no one say or do anything that will discourage Christlike effort. To each one God has given his work. If every one would be zealous to do that which will increase his ability to labor, how much would be accomplished.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 13)
The Lord wants you, my brethren, to arouse to action the minds of those who do not realize that God is calling them to active service. Tell them that their obedient love, in willing effort, is to flow forth as streams in the desert. Day by day what they accomplish is to give evidence that they are laborers together with God. The work that the Lord places before them may be dreaded, but they will gain courage as they advance.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 14)
Let all do something. All can do much more than they have done. Let parents and children help. The consciousness that they are co-workers with Christ will give the workers a joy and assurance that they could gain in no other way. And not only will relief be brought to the schools, but the light of truth will be widely diffused.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 15)
The experience gained by the youth who engage in this work will be of great value to them, teaching them to improve every God-given opportunity to labor with diligence and fidelity, and with perseverance under disappointment. The Lord makes a way for all who employ the means He has provided for the accomplishment of certain objects.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 16)
My brethren and sisters in Southern California, educate yourselves to work for the Master. Remember that in helping to circulate Object Lessons, you are placing before others truths which cannot fail of being a blessing to them. Each one of God’s people has a part to act in the work of the Redeemer. Those who receive Christ are to prove the sincerity of their love for Him by earnest, self-sacrificing efforts in His service. No opportunity for helping to advance the Lord’s cause is to be allowed to pass by. In meekness and lowliness, yet with an earnest determination to accomplish something for the blessing of others, God’s children are to take hold of His work.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 17)
Only a small part of that which may be accomplished has yet been done in circulating Christ’s Object Lessons. Let not our people think that their duty is done, their work finished. This book is still to be taken out by God’s people and is to find its place in many more homes. Let the same territory be gone over again and again. In this there will be a blessing for the one who sells the book and for those who buy it.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 18)
Let us take hold of the work with renewed courage. Let God’s people consecrate to His service the time and tact that He has given them. O what a wonderful blessing many will obtain from the consciousness that they are working for God. This thought will help them to do their work intelligently.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 19)
My brethren and sisters, by earnest prayer brace yourselves for duty, and then expect the help of the Lord. Prove yourselves to be laborers together with God. As you go forth to sell Object Lessons, repeat again and again the words, “Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] With this as your motto, press on with the work.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 20)
With humble hearts begin afresh, and by your words and example encourage those who have never tried to sell the book to make an effort. Let all that you do be done gracefully and cheerfully and well. Learn to ask the Lord to help you, and believe that He surely will. The work that is undertaken in the name of the Lord, and for the purpose of placing the light before the people, will be blessed by Him. What is needed is workers who are humble and contrite. He who lives near the Saviour will reveal in his life that he has held communion with Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 167, 1904, 21)
Lt 169, 1904
Ministers in Southern California “Carroll Avenue,” Takoma Park, Maryland April 27, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MCP 178; 2MCP 633; Ev 382; 1MR 256; 6MR 62. To the Ministers in Southern California Dear Brethren,—
I have no desire to hurt the soul of any one, but I must bear the straight testimony given me. Some of the ministers and leaders in the Southern California Conference need to realize the necessity of counselling with their brethren who have been long in the work and who have thus gained a valuable experience. Their disposition to shut themselves up to themselves, and to feel competent to plan and execute, according to their own judgment and preferences, brings them into financial embarrassment. Then, when the embarrassment bears heavily upon them, they are tempted to think that the Union Conference or the General Conference should help them out. This independent way of working is not right and should not be followed. The ministers and teachers in our Conferences are to work unitedly with their brethren of experience, asking them for advice and paying heed to this advice.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 1)
Earnest work should be done in Southern California in carrying the Fernando school forward successfully, and earnest work should be done in establishing a sanitarium near Los Angeles. Several buildings have already been offered for sale. If these are not suitable, or if they cannot be purchased for a reasonable sum, land should be purchased and buildings erected.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 2)
Our smaller conferences should be careful not to create burdens of debt for the General Conference to carry. At times inconsiderate moves are made, buildings are put up without sufficient thought as to their use, and responsibilities are assumed where there is not ability to carry these responsibilities. Thus money is absorbed that brings no returns. Enterprises are started which consume without producing. This is not as it should be.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 3)
General Conference Men Unduly Burdened
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 4)
I fear that our brethren do not realize how many burdens the officers of the General Conference must bear. Many, many letters from all parts of the world come to them, asking for advice and help. Men in every part of the field think that they should certainly receive help from the General Conference. Workers who have been long in the truth freely lay their whole weight upon the President of the General Conference, sending urgent requests for means or for his personal labors to help them in the raising of means.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 5)
There are many urgent calls for means to open new fields. These calls must be answered; and those in the fields that have already been entered must make diligent efforts to carry forward the work entrusted to them.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 6)
Wholehearted service is required in dealing with minds. Let us remember this. Often we are tempted to criticize a man standing in a high position of responsibility, because he does not do as we think he ought to do. But the one who has so many responsibilities to carry needs not the criticism of his fellow workers; he needs their encouragement, their forbearance, their patience, and their prayers. He needs the abiding presence of Christ; for it is not always that he has wise, unprejudiced men to counsel with. In the confusion of many cares and many calls for help, he may make mistakes. Amongst the scores of appeals that come for help, your case may seem to be neglected. At such times remember the heavy burdens that are laid upon the one whom you think has failed to do his duty. Remember that it may be impossible for him to grant your request. Perhaps it would be a great mistake to grant it.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 7)
We are all brethren and sisters. If Christ is by your side, filling you with His Spirit, you will appreciate the situation of the men who are loaded down with so many burdens and will pray for them.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 8)
If our church members will walk humbly with God, with contrite hearts, they will control their own feelings and will not permit Satan to lead them to cherish thoughts and to speak words that will wound and bruise their own souls and the souls of others. They will not hurt the influence of those whom they ought to respect.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 9)
But too often place is given to evil surmising and evil speaking. Under the influence of the suspicions that Satan has planted in the heart, very unjust things are said and done. Good and worthy actions seem to be tainted with evil. Men forget that sometimes their best intentions have been misunderstood, and that sometimes they have been as guilty as those they criticize, without discerning their danger.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 10)
Let us be kind and pitiful and courteous. Let us not give undue prominence to our feelings. It is because our feelings are allowed to occupy the first place that there are so many unhappy differences amongst believers. Thus Christ is greatly dishonored. Let us, then, treat one another with true courtesy and respect. Should you think that your brother has made a mistake, and needs to be corrected, follow the directions given by Christ. Tell him his fault between him and thee alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother and have hidden a multitude of sins.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 11)
Oh, we need so much the power of the Holy Spirit. We are not in heaven; we are in the midst of the turmoil and din and strife of this earth. Let us then put on Christ, and love as brethren. You may be full of energy and running over with zeal, but remember that this is of no avail unless your zeal and energy are tempered with the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Unless you learn in His school, you will make many mistakes. He invites us, as churches and as individuals, to take His yoke upon us and learn of Him. The promise is, “ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.]
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 12)
God has a variety of workers, and He treats all with impartiality. He desires us to change the past order of things. He desires us to cease our evil thinking and evil speaking and to put away our hasty words. We are to part forever with our cruel thoughts and feelings and love as brethren. We are no longer to act like unmanageable, undisciplined children. “As He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation.” [1 Peter 1:15.] Give up now and forever all wrong habits. Take yourself to task. Discipline yourself. Lift the cross, and deny self. Control yourself. Then there will be an opportunity for Christ to let His mind be in you. Your words will be sweet and pure. You will give no place to the enemy by giving way to evil thinking and evil speaking—his most successful means of keeping the church in a weak, unconverted state.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 13)
Practical Christianity we must have, or we cannot enter heaven. Hearing and preaching the gospel is not enough. We must wear the yoke of Christ; we must learn of Him to be meek and lowly. We must be doers of the Word. “If ye know these things,” Christ declares, “happy are ye if ye do them.”“Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” [John 13:17; James 1:22.]
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 14)
The Work of Our Ministers
Our ministers should plan wisely, as faithful stewards. They should feel that it is not their duty to hover over the churches already raised up, but that they should be doing aggressive evangelistic work, preaching the Word and doing house-to-house work in places that have not yet heard the truth. They are to preach the Word in season and out of season, raising up companies of believers here and there, in the highways and the byways. If they work in Christ’s lines, the Lord will work with them, and they will understand the greatness of His promise.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 15)
There needs to be a revival of the message in the hearts of our ministers. They will find that nothing is so encouraging as doing evangelistic work in new fields.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 16)
Work for Laymen
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 17)
Those who have long known the truth need to seek the Lord most earnestly, that their hearts may be filled with a determination to work for their neighbors. My brethren and sisters, visit those who live near you, and by sympathy and kindness seek to reach their hearts. Be sure to work in a way that will remove prejudice, instead of creating it. And remember that those who know the truth for this time, and yet confine their efforts to their own churches, refusing to work for their unconverted neighbors, will be called to account for unfulfilled duties.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 18)
Lend your neighbors some of our smaller books. If their interest is awakened, take them some of the larger books. Show them Christ’s Object Lessons, tell them its history, and ask them if they do not want a copy. If they already have it, ask them if they do not want to read other books of a similar nature. If possible, secure an opportunity to teach them the truth. Beside all waters the workers are to sow the seeds of truth, not knowing which shall prosper, this or that, but ever walking in humility and trust beside the One who has declared, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 19)
Let every one who has eaten of the bread which came down from heaven labor in all simplicity to teach others what they must do to be saved. Little missionary work is done, and what is the result? The truths that Christ gave are not taught. God’s people are not growing in grace. Many are in an unpleasant, complaining frame of mind. Those who are not doing their duty, who are not helping others to see the importance of the truth for this time, must feel dissatisfied with themselves. Satan takes advantage of this feature in their experience and leads them to criticize and find fault. If they were busily engaged in seeking to know and do the will of God, they would feel such a burden for perishing souls, such an unrest of mind, that they could not be restrained from fulfilling the commission, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature,”“teaching them all things whatsoever I have commanded.” [Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 20)
Even while engaged in their daily employment, God’s people can seek to lead others to Christ. And while doing this, they will have the precious assurance that the Saviour is close beside them. They need not think that they are left to their own feeble efforts. Christ will give them words to speak that will refresh and encourage and strengthen poor, struggling souls who are in darkness. Their own faith will be strengthened as they realize that the Redeemer’s promise is being fulfilled. Not only are they a blessing to others, but the work they do for Christ brings a blessing to themselves.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 21)
There are many who can and should do the work of which I have spoken. My brother, my sister, what are you doing for Christ? Are you seeking to be a blessing to others? Are your lips uttering words of kindness, sympathy, and love? Are you putting forth earnest efforts to win others to the Saviour?
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 22)
Fathers and mothers, be on guard. Let your conversation in the home be pleasant and encouraging. Always speak kindly, as if in the presence of Christ. Let there be no fault-finding, no accusing. Words of this kind wound and bruise the soul. It is natural for human beings to speak sharp words. Those who yield to this inclination open the door for Satan to enter their hearts and to make them quick to remember the mistakes and errors of others. Their failings are dwelt upon, their deficiencies noted, and words are spoken that cause a lack of confidence in one who is doing his best to fulfil his duty as a laborer together with God. Often the seeds of distrust are sown because one thinks that he ought to have been favored, but was not.
(19LtMs, Lt 169, 1904, 23)
Lt 171, 1904
Hizerman, H. “Carroll Avenue,” Takoma Park, Maryland May 10, 1904 Previously unpublished. H. Hizerman My dear young friend,—
I have not forgotten you. We spent a day at Mountain View on our way to Washington. The rain began to fall soon after we crossed the ferry at Vallejo, and it fell all day, sometimes very heavily. Covered carriages met us at the station and took us to see the land that has been chosen as a site for the Pacific Press. Then we went to the house that Brother C. H. Jones has purchased, and here we ate our dinner. A caretaker is in charge of the house at present. We placed our lunch on the dining room table and did full justice to it.
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 1)
Brother Cady, from the Healdsburg school, was with us, and I talked with him about several matters, and particularly about your case. He promised to see you and talk with you. I told him of my desire concerning you and said that I had placed you on my list to see that you were connected with the school, that you might receive its advantages. This may not be brought about immediately, but it will be in time, and you must be patient.
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 2)
There is one thing that is of more consequence to you than anything else, and that is that you take your position decidedly for the truth. Do not transgress the fourth commandment. Resolve firmly to do the right always, with the full consciousness that this is for your best good, and that it is your first and greatest duty to love God supremely and keep His commandments.
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 3)
Christ has given His life for you. In your behalf, God gave His Son to die on the cross, to make a complete atonement for your sins. Will you not accept Him as your Saviour?
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 4)
“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. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” [1 John 1:8-10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 5)
“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.” [1 John 2:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 6)
It is John, the beloved disciple, who bears this testimony to you. God holds you responsible to do His will, because it is for your present and eternal good to do this. Do not wait for every difficulty to be removed from your pathway before you obey God’s requirements. Satan will place impediments in your way. He is playing the game of life for your soul. He will assail you on your weakest points, but you need not be overcome; for Jesus is your helper.
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 7)
Christ sacrificed His life to make it possible for you to claim the blessing of obedience. Your duty is plain. You are to obey God, not stopping to weigh the advantages or disadvantages. Your Creator lays upon you the obligation of obeying Him, and you are to take up this obligation as your lifework. Make the decision, firm and determined, “I will obey. I will keep the commandments of God. I will not depart from His precepts.” When you thus take your stand on Christ’s side, your words and actions will exert an influence for good. Christ’s blood will cleanse you from sin, and you will be accepted in the Beloved.
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 8)
Will you not surrender all to Christ? I want you to come out of the darkness into light. “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.] But it is left for you to choose whether you will receive or reject the Spirit of God. You may accept Christ as your personal Saviour. His atoning sacrifice will bring you eternal life. Received by faith, He will bring you power to become a son of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 9)
You ought to be walking in the light and liberty of a child of God, having your conscience purged from sin. Cast yourself upon the mercy of the Saviour. He offers you a treasure of infinite value. “Come out from among them,” God says, “and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 10)
Fix your eyes upon Christ as the object of your undivided attention. Give up all self-indulgence, and lay hold of the hope set before you in the Word. As you behold Christ, the sin-pardoning Saviour, your heart will be melted and subdued, and you will be changed into the same image. The transforming grace of Christ will change you from a sinner into a child of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, 11)
Lt 173, 1904
Prescott, W. W.; Daniells, A. G. Berrien Springs, Michigan May 20, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brethren Prescott and Daniells,—
This morning I told Brother Prescott to go ahead with the presentation of the subjects he mentioned to me. But I now feel that I must change my mind regarding the matter of bringing in these subjects at this meeting. I am deeply impressed that it will be a mistake to do this, for there are men here who would spoil the work the Lord would have done. There are other blessed subjects that you can present, subjects that will give no occasion to stir up their minds in opposition.
(19LtMs, Lt 173, 1904, 1)
I have a delicate work to do at this meeting in bearing a plain, straight testimony. Health reform needs to be revived among our people.
(19LtMs, Lt 173, 1904, 2)
I dare not encourage you to bring in at this time the matter of the spiritualistic theories taught at Battle Creek in such a way as to arouse the minds of those who have opposed and still oppose health reform.
(19LtMs, Lt 173, 1904, 3)
Let nothing be said either by Elder Daniells or Elder Prescott that will gratify some and cause them to think that Dr. Kellogg is receiving a thrashing. I advise you to speak upon some subject that will touch and tender hearts. This is what we need, O so much. I think the present pulse of the meeting calls for subjects that will tend to bring in faith and love and unity. I long to see the light and love of God come into this meeting in clear, distinct lines, that hearts may be touched by the Holy Spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 173, 1904, 4)
In haste.
(19LtMs, Lt 173, 1904, 5)
Lt 175, 1904
Ministers and Teachers Berrien Springs, Michigan May 21, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 623-624; 2MCP 718; 12MR 61-62. To ministers and teachers Dear Brethren,—
I am instructed to say to you that it is not best to dwell upon the spiritualistic sentiments, the strange, misleading theories which have for years been coming in among us.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 1)
It is not best to preach on the subject of pantheism, or to read quotations from authors who write on this subject, and the specious, deceptive errors that lead to it. The statements made in Testimony Volume 8 are sufficient to warn our people to avoid these errors. These statements will do more to enlighten minds than all the explanations or theories that our ministers and teachers may put forth concerning these matters.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 2)
If you try to handle these subjects, you will be led to repeat the sophistries of Satan, and thus you will help Satan to present his false theories to the people. Resolve never, never to repeat error, but always to teach the truth. Fill hearts and minds with the solemn, sacred truth for this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 3)
Dwell on present truth, on Christ’s second coming. The Lord is coming very soon. We have only a little while in which to present the truth for this time—the truth that is to convert souls. This truth is to be presented in the utmost simplicity, even as Christ presented it, so that the people can understand what is truth. Truth will dispel the clouds of error.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 4)
Give the people present truth. Talk the truth. Fill their minds with truth. Build up the strongholds of truth. And do not bring Satan’s theories to minds that should not hear in regard to them. What the people need is not a representation of the seductive arts of Satan, but a presentation of the truth as it is in Jesus. Remember that the devil can be served by a repetition of his lies. The less we handle these objectionable subjects, the purer, cleaner, and less tainted will be our minds and our principles.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 5)
Years ago I was instructed to tell some of our most able ministers that in repeating the arguments and sophistries of the opponents, they were putting into the minds of their hearers arguments that some would use against the truth; for as objections to the truth are presented, Satan’s angels make impressions on the minds of some who hear.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 6)
And I have been shown that we are not to enter into controversy over these spiritualistic theories, because such controversy will only confuse minds. These things are not to be brought into our meetings. We are not to labor to refute them. If our ministers and teachers give themselves to the study of these erroneous theories, some will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. It is not the work of the gospel minister to voice Satan’s theories. Go steadily forward, building up the old waste places, and restoring the foundations of many generations. Present the truth, sacred, sanctifying truth, and let the seducing theories of the enemy alone. Give him no ground on which to plant the seeds of these theories. I was warned to enter into no controversy over these matters. Let not our ministers or teachers or students give their lips to the repeating of the enemy’s sophistry.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 7)
The Lord has given our ministers a message to bear. Let them magnify the truth. The Lord has not given us the commission to unravel Satan’s theories by entering into controversy regarding them. Hold up the truth; magnify the truth; say, “It is written.” Our people do not appreciate as they should the saving power of the atonement. They do not understand as they should the meaning of the words, “Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.” [1 Corinthians 5:7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 8)
Let each one now inquire, How can I best live the truth as it is in Jesus. Heed His words, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Seek in some humble way to do service for the Master by helping others to obtain a clearer view of Him. Not all can make large offerings. Not all can do great works, magnificent deeds; but all can learn of Him His meekness and lowliness. All can control the desire to be first and can be filled with apostolic zeal. The meekness and lowliness of Christ, revealed in your life, will bring you into places where you can do service for Christ. The unselfish act, the warmth of a kindly spirit will do its work, resting agitated souls and bringing assurance and peace and hope.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 9)
The Lord needs laborers who can minister in kindness. Some can bring pounds to the Lord’s treasury; others can bring only mites; but every gift brought in sincerity is accepted by the Lord. He loves a cheerful giver. To every man is given his work. Some have a lowly service; others can speak with power on Bible subjects. But let no one despise the lowly service. Every one who keeps in touch with Christ can speak a word in season.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 10)
What are our church members doing to draw souls to Christ? Are they honoring the Lord with their substance? We have a work to do to prepare the highways and hedges for our God. We are to improve every opportunity to speak a word for Jesus, to comfort tried, tempted souls with the promises of His Word. Those who do this are doing a good and precious work. They are bringing others to the light.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 11)
Remember that we are the Lord’s heralds, His ambassadors. It is Christ who stands beside His messengers. “Go ye therefore and teach all nations,” He said to His disciples, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 12)
The more we dwell upon the lessons Christ has given us in His Word, the better prepared we shall be to see and understand the ministry required of us in presenting the truth. God employs human instrumentalities to speak His words. They are ever to speak His words, not the words of the enemy. We are to teach the things that Christ has commanded. We are to work for high and low, rich and poor. Never deem any one beyond the saving power of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 13)
We are never to go on a warfare on our own charges. In sending forth His disciples on their first missionary journey, Christ said to them, “Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not; but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” [Matthew 10:5, 6.] Why were these directions given? Jewish prejudice against the Gentiles was so strong that had the disciples gone then to the Gentiles, their work would have been greatly hindered.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 14)
“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 7, 8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 15)
We thank God that there is something for all to do. If each will do his appointed work, learning of Christ in all humility, fruit will be borne to the Master’s glory. All who place themselves in right relation to God, as members of His family doing His service, as the result of the light given them and their acquaintance with the truth, will be richly blessed. It is those who reveal their faith by their works who accomplish good. They have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 16)
God is testing us by blessings bestowed and blessings removed. Shall we learn the lessons He would teach us? Will we bear His test and proving? God has worked for His people by His Holy Spirit. By the bestowal of wonderful blessings, He has striven to awaken in them a desire to impart the light entrusted to them. “I have come to you in love,” He says, “I have come to you in mercy and judgment; yet you would not learn the lesson I sought to teach. Ye would none of My counsel, ye despised all My reproofs. My Spirit has been grieved by your failure to respond to My love.” To those who claim to be His servants and yet depart from His way, He says, “If thou art destroyed, thou thyself art responsible. Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [See Proverbs 1:30; John 5:40.]
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 17)
Who will at this time make most earnest decisions to be wholly for the Lord God of Israel?
(19LtMs, Lt 175, 1904, 18)
Lt 177, 1904
Medical Men at Battle Creek Berrien Springs, Michigan May 21, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in BCL 106-107. To our medical men at Battle Creek Dear Brethren,—
God is testing us by blessings bestowed and blessings removed. Shall we learn the lesson He would teach us? Will we bear His test and proving? God has worked for His people by His Holy Spirit. By the bestowal of wonderful blessings, He has striven to awaken in them a desire to impart the light entrusted to them. “I have come to you in love,” He says, “I have come to you in mercy and judgment; yet you would not learn the lesson I sought to teach. My Spirit has been grieved by your failure to respond to My love.” To those who claim to be His servants and yet depart from His way, He says, “If thou art destroyed, thou thyself art responsible. Ye would not come unto Me, that ye might have life.” [See John 5:40.]
(19LtMs, Lt 177, 1904, 1)
Who will at this time make most earnest decisions to be wholly for the Lord God of Israel? Shall the Lord again cause the idols of your choice—beautiful buildings—to be consumed by fire? Shall the reason be taken away because the God-given powers of the mind have been exercised in strange devising? By their unsanctified projects, men have burdened themselves and retarded the progress of the cause of God, till it is years behind where it should be. Our cities are still unwarned. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, ... how often would I have gathered thee as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings, but ye would not.” [Matthew 23:37.] Satan prepares the way for the doing of many things that God has not commanded. If all had used their powers to the glory of God, the knowledge of the truth would have been more widely extended than it is.
(19LtMs, Lt 177, 1904, 2)
It is the weaving into the web of so many figures that are not in the pattern that spoils the fabric. Have we not had enough of this? The Lord calls for a proclamation of the truth in new territory. This has been the burden of my message for the last twenty years. The Lord calls for greater simplicity; for people are woefully ignorant. Saith the great Teacher, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 177, 1904, 3)
As from the Mount of Olives Christ looked down upon the doomed, guilty city, He exclaimed with heartbroken anguish and with tears running down His face, “O that thou hadst known, even thou in this thy day the things that belong unto thy peace.” Then He paused, unwilling to pronounce the irrevocable sentence, “But now they are hid from thine eyes.” [Luke 19:42.]
(19LtMs, Lt 177, 1904, 4)
*****
A strict examination should be made in regard to the business that has been transacted in Battle Creek. This will show the standing of the institution. This examination should have been made long ago. The business standing of all our medical institutions is to be carefully and correctly presented before our people, that they may know the real situation of the medical work—where it stands, what it is doing, whether or not it is producing as well as consuming.
(19LtMs, Lt 177, 1904, 5)
Lt 179, 1904
Editors of our Periodicals Berrien Springs, Michigan May 21, 1904 Previously unpublished. To the editors of our periodicals Dear Brethren,—
I am warned that the less our ministers handle the subject of pantheism, the less they will help Satan to present his theories to the people. Let the truth for this time be kept before them. Never, never repeat the spiritualistic sentiments, the strange, misleading theories which have for years been coming in.
(19LtMs, Lt 179, 1904, 1)
The Lord has a message for our ministers to bear, but He does not call them to speak on the subjects upon which the minds of some have been dwelling. Those who do this place in minds seeds that will germinate and spring up to bear fruit. Thus people are educated to catch up the sentiments of Satan and give them publicity.
(19LtMs, Lt 179, 1904, 2)
Let the repetition of Satan’s falsehoods be kept out of our papers. What we need in our papers is the gospel message that will save souls. “O Zion that bringeth good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain! O Jerusalem that bringeth good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength, lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God.” [Isaiah 40:9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 179, 1904, 3)
Keep your eyes fixed on the Lord Jesus Christ, and by beholding Him you will be changed into His likeness. Talk not of these spiritualistic theories. Let them find no place in your mind. Let our papers be kept free from everything of the kind. Publish the truth; do not publish error. Do not try to explain in regard to the personality of God. You cannot give any further explanation than the Bible has given. Human theories regarding Him are good for nothing. Do not soil your minds by studying the misleading theories of the enemy. Labor to draw minds away from everything of this character. It will be better to keep these subjects out of our papers. Let the doctrines of present truth be put into our papers, but give no room to a repeating of erroneous theories.
(19LtMs, Lt 179, 1904, 4)
Lt 181, 1904
Hall, L. M. Nashville, Tennessee May 26, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in OHC 280; 4MR 377. + Dear Sister Hall,—
We arrived here today at eleven o’clock. The meeting at Berrien Springs was a very important one. The Lord gave me strength to speak to the people every day. But the day before the meeting closed, I felt so weary that I decided to leave at once with Edson for Nashville. We left Berrien Springs at nine o’clock Wednesday morning for Chicago. The trip was somewhat tiresome. There was hardly any pleasant scenery to be seen all along the way. Brother and Sister Paulson came with us from Berrien Springs, and as we had about six hours to wait in Chicago, he took us out to Hinsdale, about seventeen miles from Chicago, to the place on which he is going to establish a sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 1)
Dr. Paulson did all in his power to make the trip out to Hinsdale pleasant for us. A carriage was waiting for us at the station to drive us out to the house. We stayed till about five in the afternoon, and I was very much pleased with all that I saw. Hinsdale is something like Takoma Park, but the surroundings are more beautiful. The only objectionable feature is the ride into Chicago, but as this city is to be worked, this cannot be avoided.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 2)
About five years ago a Mr. Kimball went to the Battle Creek Sanitarium as a patient. He was very sick, but the treatment given him was successful, and he believes that it was the means of saving his life. Shortly afterward, he returned to his home, and it was soon after this that he told Dr. Paulson that he knew of a place which ought to be used for sanitarium work. A few months ago he bought this place and has placed it at Dr. Paulson’s disposal. It cost sixteen thousand dollars. Dr. Paulson will pay a monthly rental, and this will go toward paying for the place.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 3)
The property consists of ten acres of land, on which there are two houses and a barn. It was once a very beautiful place, but has been neglected for several years. It is in all respects a most favorable site for a sanitarium, and I am so glad that it has been placed at the disposal of our brethren. Dr. Paulson has the deed in his possession, and Mr. Kimball has given him to understand that when he sees a beginning made to establish a sanitarium, he may do something more to help him.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 4)
Hinsdale is a beautiful town. The roads are excellent, and sick people would find health in driving through the fine streets and looking at the lovely scenery. The sight of the trees and flowers, with the sunshine and fresh air, would bring light and life to mind and body. I can in anticipation see this sanitarium at Hinsdale established and hope and faith coming into the hearts of the patients.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 5)
Dr. Paulson does right in looking at the offer of this place as a providence of God. The hand of the Lord is in this matter. The outdoor advantages that the sick will have will prove the greatest blessing to them, aiding the cure of mind and body. And as the sick ones associate with those who love and serve God, they will be doubly blessed.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 6)
How I wish that all our sanitariums could be placed among surroundings so favorable. Men and women in need of physical and spiritual healing need to breathe just such an atmosphere. They need to be brought in contact with those whose words and acts will draw them to Christ. They need to be brought under the influence of the great Medical Missionary, who can heal both soul and body. They need to hear the story of the love of the sin-pardoning Saviour—of the pardon provided for all who come to Him confessing their sins.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 7)
There are many, many souls in our wicked cities, both in the highways and the hedges, who need to be helped into the way of life by being brought into connection with our sanitariums. And these sanitariums should be established in such places as Hinsdale, Takoma Park, and Berrien Springs. This is the light that the Lord has given. Get out of the cities into the rural districts, is the message He sends.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 8)
There are no entreaties so tender, no lessons so plain, no commendations so decided as those given in the word of God. How earnest and loving and compassionate are the invitations to come to the fountain of living water. God’s Word is indeed a light shining amidst the moral darkness. And in our sanitariums, above all other places, the religion of Christ is to be clearly exemplified. This is why I have urged that many small sanitariums be established in places out of the cities, that men and women may hear and understand the Word of the Lord and may be brought under a special, direct influence from heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 9)
God sends angels from heaven to co-operate with human instrumentalities in bringing encouragement and hope and joy and peace to the hearts of the sick and suffering. These men and women need the grace that comes from the Life-giver, the health which the great Medical Missionary alone can give. O that those who have received light from God’s Word would take hold in medical missionary lines, to do all in their power for those in need of help.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 10)
Those who plan to establish sanitariums should reason from cause to effect. They should lay their plans with a deep insight into the necessities of a medical institution. One of the first necessities is a site in a retired place out of the city, where there are trees, where the institution can be surrounded by grounds which, although not beautiful at first perhaps, may be beautified.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 11)
Let the patients be taught that the breathing of fresh air is necessary to health and life. Let there be facilities for the giving of rational treatment, so that there will be no necessity for the use of drugs. By wise methods the patients are to be led to take outdoor exercise. Every one who is recovering from sickness needs such exercise, in order that the disease may be completely overcome and health regained. When physical health has been regained, men and women are better able to exercise that faith in Christ which secures the health of the soul. In the conscious evidence of sins forgiven there is peace and joy and rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 12)
Our sanitariums should be out of the cities. One who is unerring in counsel has given this direction in mercy to suffering humanity. Physicians and ministers are called upon to exert their influence in favor of establishing our sanitariums, publishing houses, and schools out of the cities. For the sake of the youth in our publishing houses and schools, and for the sake of the patients and helpers in our sanitariums, this should be done. And as the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, let Christ be recognized as our counselor, infinite in wisdom, and always ready to help us. Those who know God as revealed in His Word make Him chief in all that they do. They say: “Thou, God, seest me. Thou hearest every word that I speak; Thou knowest every motive that prompts my plans and actions.” This kept in view will be to us a constant spiritual reminder.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 13)
All things are to be considered from the standpoint of the Bible. The teachers in our schools and sanitariums are to guard the minds of the youth in their care from becoming estranged from God. They are to have an interest in each one. They are to reveal a Christlike love for souls. Their minds are to be stayed upon Christ, and they are humbly and thankfully to receive His grace in order that they may impart. In their association with others, they are not to seek to benefit themselves, but to bless others.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 14)
We plead the necessity of our sanitariums’ being miles away from the smoky, dirty cities, with their tobacco-laden atmosphere. It is impossible to establish a sanitarium in the city without placing the patients in an atmosphere that will to a greater or less extent undo the good accomplished by the treatment given. The wisdom of heaven is to be brought into every sanitarium. Godliness—the result of the grace of Christ—is to lead souls to drink of the water of life. All the workers in a sanitarium are to live the truth as it is in Jesus.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 15)
Many have permitted a multitude of cares to harden the heart against accepting God’s invitations of mercy. As workers for Christ, we are to give sinsick souls the precious assurance that every moment of their future life may be one of high integrity. Their hearts may be changed. Every transaction of their lives may be presided over by the purest equity.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 16)
Many have so worn out the body by protracted effort that the things which belong to the eternal peace are neglected as a secondary matter. With patient, continuous effort seek to win them to Christ. Tell them that they cannot by delaying make themselves better. They may look upon their transactions as thoroughly honest. Ask them if they are honest with God. May they not be robbing God by taking upon themselves business cares so numerous and so exhausting that they neglect the high concerns of eternity. When one does this, one voice for Christ is lost. A soul is without hope in Christ, lost through misconception, ruined by exhausting engrossments. The mind and body are worn out by obedience to worldly requirements. Christ’s invitations have not been accepted.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 17)
There are those who will be lost, not because they have defrauded their neighbor, but because they have defrauded Christ of His purchased possession and defrauded their own souls by neglecting the great salvation offered them. Their influence has not been exerted on the side of Christ, but on the side of the enemy, and because of this, other souls have been led astray.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 18)
The mind is to be strictly guarded. Overwork is imperilling to the God-given powers of mind and body. We do not advise any one to be inactive; for inactivity brings temptation. Evil agencies work with those who allow mind and body to be idle. The powers that God has given us are not to be allowed to rust through inaction. Neither are they to be kept in such a whirl of activity that there is no time to give to God and to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 19)
We are not to allow the things of this world so to absorb the attention that mind and body are completely engrossed. Thus those around us are robbed of the kindly words and deeds that would help them in the upward way. The channel of light is clogged with worldly matters. The grace that Christ is longing to impart He cannot bestow. Many are coming to have less and less strength to impart to others, because they do not receive power from the source of all power. God calls upon them to separate from the things which corrode the mind and spoil the religious experience. Their words and their works are against Christ, because they are not fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. God calls upon us to make sure work for eternity. Time is passing, and that which men and women ought to be doing for their own souls and the souls of others is not done. Things represented by hay, wood, and stubble are brought to the foundation. Men and women are living lives darkened by the shadow of sin, uncheered by the light of Christ’s presence.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 20)
God calls for men of high-souled integrity to go forth as His witnesses. When the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened, many professed believers in Christ will be found wanting. They will be found to have been robbing God. They should have invested the Lord’s entrusted means in establishing memorials for Him, from which the warning message could be proclaimed to arouse the people to candid investigation; but they have done nothing to establish sanitariums, nothing to advance medical missionary work. They have buried their talents in the earth. They have withheld their means from the Lord, thus hindering the truth from going to the dark places of the earth. They have invested their money in accordance with their own desires, or in accordance with the desires of those who have no part or lot in the service of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 21)
Sometimes a man who designed to return to the Lord His own fails to do this, because some members of his family, who have a stronger influence over him than has the Word of God, induce him to invest his money in worldly enterprises. He has not the moral courage to stand up firmly for Jesus, who gave His life for him. He allowed his family to turn his means into selfish channels, while at the same time men ordained by God to carry forward His work were laboring under a great disadvantage for want of facilities. One after another they were worn out by the struggle, and they went down into their graves. They might have lived if the men who selfishly hoarded God’s money had returned to the Lord His own. O that these miserly withholders would take this reproof to themselves.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 22)
“What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.] These are serious questions. God places in men’s hands means to be held for Him in trust, to be returned to Him when called for. But the hearts of many whom He has made His stewards have become estranged from Him; and His faithful servants find themselves cramped for lack of means and facilities because of the covetousness of men who are not willing to make efforts to prepare their fellow beings to become members of the royal family.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 23)
We thank the Lord that there are men and women who have willing hearts and who cheerfully give back to Him what He has given them. Their gifts may be small, but the Lord acknowledges and blesses them. He notes every act of self-denial. He sees every mite that is placed in the self-denial boxes. He will bless these gifts to His glory. These self-denial boxes teach just the lessons that children need to learn. Parents, tell your children the good that will be done by the dimes and nickels that they drop into these boxes. Tell them that God will not forget their offerings or their efforts to help forward His work. God has a welcome for the faithful workers who in all that they do and say have only His glory in view.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 24)
And let those who can make larger offerings remember that they are but doing what God has made it possible for them to do by entrusting to them His means. We pray that many large offerings may be brought to the Lord’s treasury, that His work may make rapid advancement.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 25)
Some say, Religion must give way to business. Those who follow this maxim will one day see that they have robbed God by hiding His treasure in the world, by investing their money where it does nothing to advance His cause. But is it a wise investment that brings disaster to the soul? Money is invested at a loss so heavy that it cannot be estimated, when the investment means the ruin of the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 181, 1904, 26)
Lt 183, 1904
White, W. C. Nashville, Tennessee June 1, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5Bio 341. Dear son Willie,—
Your letter of May 29, with letters from others enclosed, was received today. I was very glad to get them and have read them all. Since coming here, I have not felt at all like writing. I have with me letters begun in Berrien Springs, which I have not attempted to finish. I feel that I need rest, and I do not desire to take any responsibility upon me, unless the Lord shall lay it upon me. I think that my brain ought to be allowed to rest. I ought not to be called on to give advice or counsel unless the Lord puts the burden upon me. As soon as I begin to talk with others, even in regard to the matters that the Lord has presented to me, the thought comes: I fear that my brethren and sisters will make a wrong use of my words, interpreting them to suit themselves.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 1)
We reached Chicago at 1:30, Wednesday morning. Dr. Paulson had made every arrangement to take us out to Hinsdale, and we at once got into a carriage and drove to another station, reaching there just in time to catch the train for Hinsdale, which is seventeen miles out from Chicago. When we got out there, we found a carriage waiting to take us to the house.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 2)
I am glad that I spent the five hours’ wait at Hinsdale. It is just the place for a sanitarium. The atmosphere is good, and the surroundings are beautiful. The town reminds me of Takoma Park, only it is much more settled. The houses in the town are large and costly and are evidently the homes of men of wealth who live out there and carry on business in Chicago. In this respect the location is superior to our location at Takoma Park; for most of the men living at Takoma Park are government clerks, I believe.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 3)
We took dinner with Brother and Sister Paulson and greatly enjoyed the meal; for we were very hungry.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 4)
Dr. Paulson drove me all over the sanitarium property. It consists of ten acres of land, two houses, and a barn. The house in which Dr. Paulson and his family are living is rather old, but it is a good house. The other one is larger, and it is in this one that they will start their work. They are planning to put up some treatment rooms this summer and later to put up an addition to the building.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 5)
This is the second place which I have seen since coming east that is, in many respects, perfectly adapted for sanitarium work.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 6)
At Dr. Paulson’s I met Brother and Sister Wilde, the parents of Sister Paulson. Brother Wilde is an old pioneer, and I found that he could relate experience after experience that he and your father and mother had in the work long, long ago. Some of these experiences took place when you were about four years old. I spoke of the meeting at which I addressed twenty thousand people.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 7)
Brother and Sister Wilde, with another daughter and her child, live with Dr. Paulson. Both daughters married physicians. Brother Wilde is sixty-nine years old, but does not show his age.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 8)
The old people seemed much pleased to see me, and we all enjoyed our visit very much. Before we left, we had a season of prayer together.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 9)
Edson obtained excellent accommodations for us on the train to take us to Nashville. On the way down we were delayed for several hours by a breakdown on the line just ahead of us. It was a train loaded with staves. We were very thankful that we were saved from harm.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 10)
At Nashville we found Brother W. O. Palmer waiting with carriages to take us out to where Edson lives. Here we found that Emma and Edson had given up the rooms that they have been occupying in the printing office and have moved into the cottage. Everything has been made very comfortable and convenient for us.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 11)
Since I came here, I have spent a great deal of time in the carriage. Emma takes me out whenever she has an errand to do.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 12)
It was thought that perhaps I [had] better not speak on Sabbath, but I said, “I have a message to bear.” The Lord strengthened me, and I bore a straightforward testimony. Maggie reported what I said. Afterward I was told that even had I known the real condition of things in the church, which I did not, I could not have spoken more to the point.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 13)
The weather has been very dry here for some time, but the rain came at last. It rained most of Monday and Tuesday and is still cloudy. On Sunday a high wind arose. The dust was carried along in clouds. Suddenly the rain began to pour down in clouds, doing some damage and drenching many of those who had gone out to the National Cemetery to decorate the graves of the soldiers.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 14)
Thursday, June 2
On Monday morning Brother W. O. Palmer drove in from his home, which is twelve miles from here, to take me out there. We found them living in a large house in a beautiful location. There had been some thought that this property could be used as a sanitarium. But I do not think that Brother and Sister Palmer wish to move. Sister Palmer is becoming much interested in raising chickens, and it is well for her to do this, if she has not a work to do in saving souls.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 15)
They have one hundred acres of land. We were somewhat disappointed that the rain kept us from driving over the place. It rained all Monday afternoon, and Tuesday morning was showery. On Tuesday Brother Palmer’s farmer drove us back to Edson’s.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 16)
Yesterday I felt weak and much worn. In the afternoon Sara and I drove out into the country a few miles. I slept nearly all the way. The night before I was very nervous and could not sleep. But the ride and the sleep rested me.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 17)
One morning while out driving, I called on Brother and Sister Haskell. Brother Haskell asked me to meet with their workers some morning at nine o’clock and speak to them. But I dare not venture to do this at present. I am suffering from the strain of speaking so many times at Berrien Springs. Addressing such large congregations was a heavy tax on the abdominal muscles, and I must speak less until I recover from this taxation.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 18)
Since coming here, we have had from Edson’s garden all the green peas and strawberries we could eat. Yesterday a large quantity of strawberries was picked, and Emma canned eighteen quarts.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 19)
Until I received your letter, I felt somewhat disappointed that you did not come to Nashville. But your letter explains that business in Battle Creek will detain you. Rest assured that we are expecting you. I am anxious for you to come, that we may take up the work which it was proposed we should do while at Nashville. We ought to be together—Edson and you and I—planning for new books.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 20)
What are your plans? Please let us know. Are you planning to come to Nashville at all? I feel that I must have my workers together where I am. I am perplexed over the matter. I am anxious to do the work that we desired to do in Nashville. If this work is done before the heat increases, it will be for our good healthwise. I fear that I shall not be able to endure the hot weather.
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 21)
I was much surprised to read your communication regarding the Battle Creek Sanitarium. May the Lord guide in this important transaction, is my prayer. This suggestion means much to very many. The most careful consideration will need to be given to every point, that God be not dishonored. If this were a common business matter, we might come to a decision quickly; but to make the decision in the fear and according to the instruction of Him who sees the end from the beginning means very much to every one of us who has an interest in the institution. I can only pray, “Lord, make Thy will in this matter so clear that no one will be deceived. We cannot, we must not move blindly.”
(19LtMs, Lt 183, 1904, 22)
Lt 185, 1904
White, W. C. Nashville, Tennessee June 2, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Willie,—
In regard to selling the Battle Creek Sanitarium, if it means that Dr. Kellogg would obligate himself to run the institution, and would keep our physicians and nurses there, to be controlled by unbelievers, the movement would be a snare of the enemy to bring about a worse condition of things than now exists. Dr. Kellogg should be given an opportunity to take a rest in some quiet place. He needs to understand what it means to have an experience altogether different from the experience that he has had for years. His soul is of more value than anything that may be gained by continuing to run the Battle Creek Sanitarium after the present order. He has carried the burdens that he has to his spiritual injury. I want him to secure a character that will stand the test in the day of judgment.
(19LtMs, Lt 185, 1904, 1)
There is but one religion that bears the stamp and superscription of God. There is a worldly-policy religion, but this will find no place in the holy city.
(19LtMs, Lt 185, 1904, 2)
Since writing the foregoing, Sara and I have been out for a drive. We called on Elder Butler and found him nicely situated on the fourth floor of the publishing house. Brother Haskell had come in just before us, so we had an opportunity to talk with both of them. We stayed for about an hour and learned before leaving that Brethren Magan and Sutherland had arrived in Nashville late last night. When we returned from our ride, we found them at Edson’s. They could not tell us anything more definite in regard to your movements than what you had already written. We shall wait patiently until you can see your way clear to come.
(19LtMs, Lt 185, 1904, 3)
Brother Magan and Brother Sutherland will have to leave here by the fourteenth of June. They will probably spend some time driving over the country looking for a favorable place in which to begin work. I wish that you were here to accompany them.
(19LtMs, Lt 185, 1904, 4)
Lt 187, 1904
Butler, G. I.; Haskell, S. N. Nashville, Tennessee June 3, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 97. Dear Brethren Butler and Haskell,—
Light has been given me in regard to the meetings that are to be held. Directions were given in council as to how the work should be carried on and the interest maintained and at the same time the strength of the workers sustained. One of authority spoke, and all listened with reverent attention:
(19LtMs, Lt 187, 1904, 1)
“A camp-meeting would be of special interest if held where the best class of hearers could attend. This camp-meeting should be followed by tent-meetings. But bear in mind, from the beginning to the close of the meetings, that the hearers will not receive as much benefit from lengthy discourses as from shorter ones. Short sermons will be remembered far better than longer ones. The speakers must learn this lesson. They must remember that the Bible subjects which will be presented will be new to most of the hearers, and that the principal points will have to be often repeated.
(19LtMs, Lt 187, 1904, 2)
“Short discourses will accomplish much good, but lengthy sermons will tax the strength of the speaker. Especially will this be the case if the speaker is one who feels the importance of his message. His physical powers will be overtaxed, and the hearers will have listened to more than they can remember. Ministers go down into the grave worn out by preaching long sermons.
(19LtMs, Lt 187, 1904, 3)
“The subject of temperance should be strongly presented, and a pledge to abstain from all intoxicating liquor and from tobacco should be presented. Habits of intemperance are preventing minds from discerning the importance of the truths which make men wise unto salvation. The brain must be cleared from the befogging influence of intoxicating liquor and tobacco, and then men will realize that Christ has died for their salvation.
(19LtMs, Lt 187, 1904, 4)
“Every effort is to be made to press in the intensely interesting points of truth for this time.”
(19LtMs, Lt 187, 1904, 5)
I woke and found that it was a dream. The words spoken had made a deep impression on my mind, and I thought I would write them out and send them to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 187, 1904, 6)
In conclusion I would say, “On the Sabbath, when the people assemble for worship, let the discourse be short, and let all be given an opportunity to bear testimony.”
(19LtMs, Lt 187, 1904, 7)
Lt 189, 1904
White, May Lacey Nashville, Tennessee June 6, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 52-54. My dear daughter May Lacey White,—
How pleased we should be to see your pleasant face and to hear your voice and to see the children, Henry and Herbert and Grace. Dear children, you must try to help your mother all you possibly can; for your father is not at home to encourage her and to help to bear the burdens. I pray for you all and love you all. I pray that the Lord Jesus will make you kind and patient and gentle and obedient. Your father would be pleased to be with you. He would greatly enjoy the society of your mother and of his children. But there are many things that must be done at this time which your father can do. Just as soon as we have done what must be done, we shall return to our home in St. Helena.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 1)
Henry and Herbert, you are growing old enough to be able to study, able to exercise your physical and mental powers. You are to learn to pray and to be obedient. In this way you can be a great blessing to your mother, and she will not grieve so much because of your father’s absence. The Lord Jesus will be pleased because you are trying to be His own little children. You are to be always truthful and always kind and pleasant and gentle and obedient to your dear mother. Do not do or say anything that will grieve her heart.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 2)
We are looking forward to the time when the Saviour shall come in the clouds of heaven to gather His jewels to Himself. I pray that you, my dear grandchildren, shall be among the number who shall be called true and pure and faithful, fitted to become members of the royal family.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 3)
You are now old enough to know what it means to be obedient to your father and mother. I pray that you will always remember that the Son of God so loved you that He died that you might have everlasting life. But if you do not love Jesus, if you do not try to do those things that will please Him, your characters will not be pure and true.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 4)
You remember how the mothers brought their children to Jesus, that He might bless them. At first there were only one or two mothers. They were joined by others, and when they reached Jesus, there were quite a number of mothers and children. They were weary and dusty, but O so anxious to come into Christ’s presence and receive His blessing. Christ had watched these mothers and their little ones all along the way. He heard the disciples forbidding them to come to Him, and He said, “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And He took the children in His arms, close to His great heart of love, and blessed them.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 5)
These children never forgot the kind, gentle words that the Saviour spoke to them. The mothers were never tired of repeating these words. Both to mothers and children the occurrence was a constant wellspring of joy.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 6)
Children, your father and mother are trying to do their best for you. They try to keep you from doing that which will displease the Lord Jesus. They present you to the Saviour, that He may keep you from all harm. Every day you are to remember that you are under the keeping power of Him who sees every action that you do and hears every word that you speak. You must seek to help yourselves by doing those things that will be pleasing in the sight of God, who is too pure and holy to regard with approval anything like falsehood or deception. You are old enough now to try to do right.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 7)
The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, who in his youth was a minister of the gospel: “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:14-17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 8)
I must now stop. I leave this letter with you, asking you to think of what I have written, and obey my words.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 9)
Your Grandmother.
(19LtMs, Lt 189, 1904, 10)
Lt 191, 1904
White, Mabel Nashville, Tennessee June 7, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SpTB #18 10; 3MR 265. My dear granddaughter Mabel,—
I should be very much pleased to receive a line from you, my dear, wherever you may be, to let me know where to address you. I would often be pleased to write you a letter, when I have something interesting to write about.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 1)
We are just about to leave here for a trip of six or seven days up the Cumberland River, in “The Morning Star.” Our party will consist of Brethren Magan and Sutherland, your Uncle Edson and your Aunt Emma, your father, your grandmother, Sara, Brother Crisler, who returned from Graysville yesterday, Maggie, Edson’s stenographer, and several others. We expect to start about noon today. It is now half-past eight, and at nine the Inspector will go over the boat. We must be back by the fourteenth; for Brethren Magan and Sutherland have to be at Berrien Springs to attend the opening of the summer school.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 2)
When Edson was going up and down the Mississippi, he acted as pilot and captain; but he has not pilot’s papers for the Cumberland River, so he has secured a pilot. He wishes to learn all about the navigation of this river, so that he will be able to act as pilot himself.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 3)
I have just had a call from your father. He gave me a copy of a letter he has written you. Mabel, in no case enter a smallpox hospital. I do not think that either you or Ella ought to take up the work of treating the sick. You are both too sensitive to suffering.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 4)
Mabel, be careful, very careful, of your health. In a short time now we shall be in San Diego. We may send for you then, or we may go directly home.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 5)
I leave you and Ella in the hands of the Lord, asking Him to watch over and protect you.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 6)
I will send this letter to your mother; for I do not know where you are.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 7)
We have been in Nashville for nearly two weeks. Your Aunt Emma and Uncle Edson have made things very pleasant and comfortable for us.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 8)
Last Friday we went out to visit the Sanitarium, which is about three miles out of Nashville. The country all round there is as pretty as a picture. At present the sanitarium work is being carried on in a rented building, but we hope that arrangements can soon be made to secure a place of our own. At the Sanitarium we saw Miss Whittenberg, who is acting as matron.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 9)
With much love,
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 10)
Your grandmother.
(19LtMs, Lt 191, 1904, 11)
Lt 193, 1904
Druillard, Sister [N. H.] Edgefield Junction, Tennessee June 9, 1904 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3MR 265-267. Dear Sister Druillard,—
We are all on board “The Morning Star.” We came on board night before last and left Nashville the next morning. We are now tied up by the river bank at Edgefield Junction, one mile from where Brother W. O. Palmer lives. It is Thursday morning. I have been up an hour and a half, but none of the others have shown themselves yet. They were working late last night.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 1)
For most of the time while we were in Nashville, the weather was rainy. Yesterday, our first day on the boat, was beautiful, and this morning the sun is shining brightly, and the day promises to be clear. I got up as soon as I could see to prepare for my writing. It is now about half-past four.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 2)
Brother Sutherland and Brother Magan are with us on the boat. Ever since coming to Nashville, they have been diligently looking over the country for a school location, and they have found some desirable places for sale.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 3)
We are taking this trip in the boat to see the country still farther and to see what can be done to open up work in the South. Notwithstanding this field has been kept before our people for many years, not all that might have been done has been done. We still have a work to do. A beginning has been made in Nashville, and aggressive work has been done, but there is still more to be accomplished. More decided efforts are to be made.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 4)
Today we shall go farther up the river and “view the landscape o’er” to see if we can find a location farther away from Nashville than the places that the brethren have yet looked at. They would choose for their work a place at least fifty miles from Nashville, but it may be wisdom to locate nearer the city than this.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 5)
Brother Sutherland thought that perhaps he ought to return to Berrien Springs immediately upon reaching Nashville after this trip; but we do not think that this would be wisdom. Early next week we have an important meeting to attend at Huntsville, and it is very important that our brethren should be at that meeting; for decisions are to be made as to what shall be done with the Huntsville school. The future of this school is hanging in the balance. And if Brother Sutherland and Brother Magan are to work in the South, they should have every opportunity to understand the outlook and to see the probabilities and possibilities of the work here. I do not think that they should return to Berrien Springs before visiting Huntsville with us. I wish to talk with them more than I have. I have not been able to talk with them much since they came; for I have been quite ill. The labor at the Berrien Springs meeting was all that I could endure, and I have been feeling the consequences. I am sure that Brother Magan and Brother Sutherland ought to be at the Huntsville meeting. We must all consult together and decide important matters. Our brethren are to be on the ground, and they must not rush away until some matters are settled. They must know what the Lord would have them do.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 6)
This scripture is before me: “Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered? But thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered; for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, ... and all flesh shall know that I the Lord am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty one of Jacob.”“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” [Isaiah 49:24-26; 41:10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 7)
We all need at this time a deep and earnest trust in God. “We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”“In that He Himself hath suffered, being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 4:15; 2:18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 8)
We had an excellent meeting in Nashville last Sabbath. I spoke for a short time, and then others spoke—J. E. White, W. C. White, Elder Haskell, Elder Butler, and Professor Magan. Professor Sutherland was at Brother Palmer’s, nine miles from Nashville. He was not feeling well and therefore did not attend.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 9)
The matter of finding a location for a school for the colored people means a great deal, and we must look the whole situation over carefully, considering every point in regard to the present and the future.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 10)
We shall trust in the Lord and earnestly pray that we may be kept by the power of God. Looking to human agents for strength is very poor policy. We must put our entire trust in God and exercise faith in Him, depending upon His wisdom. Unless we do this, we shall certainly err; for Satan is watching every chance to take advantage of us.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 11)
I must close now; for the boat will soon start, and I want this letter to go at once. I will write to you again soon. May the Lord bless and guide and teach you all at Berrien Springs. Patiently put your whole trust in Him who cannot err, and be of good courage.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 12)
In haste.
(19LtMs, Lt 193, 1904, 13)
Lt 195, 1904
Daniells, A. G. On Steamer “Morning Star” June 13, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SpTB #11 5-7; 5Bio 339, 345; 6Bio 110. + Dear Brother Daniells,—
We are returning from our trip up the river to look for land suitable for school work. We went from Nashville to Carthage, a distance of about one hundred and seventy miles by the river and seventy-eight miles by rail. We looked at several places; but the fertile land up the river is altogether too high in price for us to think of purchasing it for school purposes. Tomorrow morning we shall reach Edgefield Junction, which is only twelve miles from Nashville. We shall stay there for the rest of the day; for we wish to visit a farm which is for sale at Madison, about seventeen miles from Nashville, and two and a half miles from the railway. It is said that this farm contains nearly one hundred acres of good bottom land, more than one hundred acres of second quality agricultural land suitable for grain and fruit, and about two hundred acres of pasture land. We think that it can be purchased for about twelve thousand dollars. It is said that there are on it over two thousand dollars worth of stock and farm implements. I desire to look at this farm, and if it be the will of the Lord, I shall do so tomorrow afternoon. The farm has a roomy house, barns, and other buildings, and two and a half miles of good stone fence. Considering its advantages, its price is less than anything else we have seen in this part of Tennessee.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 1)
I have been instructed that the lands on which our school shall be established should be near enough Nashville for there to be a connection between the school and the workers in Nashville. Further than this, there are in Nashville large institutions for the education of the colored people, and our colored school is to be near enough these institutions for the wing of their protection to be thrown over it. There is less inclination to oppress the colored people in this section of Tennessee than in many other parts of the South. Prejudice will not be so easily aroused. The institutions that have been established for the education of the colored people are richly endowed and are in charge of white men. The presence of these institutions was one reason why Nashville was designated as the place in which the printing office was to be established. I was instructed that the work in the South should have every advantage to print and publish books, that this work might gain a standing far ahead of that which it has had in the past. It is to exert an influence that will bring intelligent colored people into the ranks—people who can work as teachers in the schools to be established for the colored people.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 2)
Suggestions have been made by some that it might be well to sell our property in Huntsville and move the school to some other place. But I have been instructed that this suggestion had its birth in unbelief. Our school in Huntsville is in a good location, and the large colored school which is carried on not far from there by those not of our faith has created an influence in favor of education [of] the Negro, which our people should appreciate. We should have in Huntsville facilities for the education of a goodly number of students. We should have a primary school and a school for more advanced students. It would take years to build up in a new place the work that has already been done in Huntsville.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 3)
My soul is stirred within me as this matter is presented to me. I have not yet been to Huntsville, but I have an article written regarding what should be there in the future.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 4)
We should enter at once upon the establishment, in suitable places near Nashville, of a school for white people and a school for colored people. The workers in Nashville will gain influence from these working centers. The teachers in these schools can help the work in Nashville.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 5)
We must plan wisely. God will go before us if we will look to Him as our counselor and our strength. We need to get away from our selfishness and begin to work for the Lord in earnest.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 6)
I wish to ask you if Willie is needed at once in Washington? If he is not, we could all work here for a time. But even should he go to Washington immediately after returning from Huntsville, I shall probably remain in Nashville for a time. Elder Butler and Elder Haskell are ready to begin their tent-meetings, and I desire to speak to the people. I wish to help the work in Nashville if possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 7)
Since coming to Nashville, I have not been able to carry any burdens. The Berrien Springs meeting was a heavy tax on me. I am better than I was, but by no means strong yet. The outcome of the meeting at Berrien Springs, as far as Dr. Kellogg is concerned, was not as we had hoped it would be; but we will put our trust in the Lord. I know that the enemy will try at every turn to discourage and disappoint us.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 8)
I do not think that my labors should be mainly for our own people, but for those who have not yet had the light of truth. I have less hope of success when working among those who have long known the truth than when working for those who have never had an opportunity to hear the reasons of our faith. If the enemy can keep our minds continually harassed by the wrong course of unsanctified men, who have followed their own way and their own will, he will have gained a great advantage.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 9)
I am perplexed to know just what burdens I should carry. When the Lord girds us with His strength, we shall have power to rise above the discouragement brought by the cruel, disloyal element, who are neither cold nor hot, who pretend to be in the truth, and yet are working against it in a way so insidious and indefinable that confusion comes into our churches, and our people become perplexed and discouraged.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 10)
May the Lord help us and strengthen us and bless us. If we look to Him and trust in Him, we shall not fail or become discouraged. We will leave with the Lord all the sad things with reference to Dr. Kellogg. If we can do him good in any way, let us show that we do not want to hurt him, but to help him. Let us avoid everything that would provoke retaliation. Let us give no occasion for contention. We are to move guardedly, walking in wisdom’s way, true to the Lord God of Israel, glorifying His name in all that we do and say.
(19LtMs, Lt 195, 1904, 11)
Lt 197, 1904
Evans, I. H. Nashville, Tennessee June 15, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 425-428. + Elder I. H. Evans Dear Brother,—
It is presented to me that you are in trouble and that satanic agencies are working through unconsecrated men who are not walking in the light of truth, but are setting their will against the will of God. Fallen angels mingle with fallen men to war against good. Everything but the Word of God controlling the heart is powerless against the passion that sways unconsecrated minds.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 1)
We are living in perilous times. The Lord has given light, but there are influences at work to lead men to mock at the light. Those who set themselves to oppose the plans of God’s appointment will be dealt with according to their works. In times of religious declension such as has been in Battle Creek, the judgments of God will come upon those who have been living in a state of rebellion, heaping up wrath against the day of wrath. My heart aches for those who have not heeded the messages that God has sent in mercy, to ennoble and to save. I am filled with sorrow for those who have despised and insulted the world’s Redeemer by cherishing bitterness and wrath and hatred and evil in their hearts. The light which God sent to sanctify them they have despised, and their eyes have become blinded, their spiritual discernment perverted.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 2)
I am very sorry for the poor souls who have braced themselves to carry out plans that are rooted in self. Those who have lost their discernment of the will and way of God, notwithstanding His requirements have been laid before them in clear lines, will lead other souls into bye and forbidden paths. There is no safety for any one unless the truth is enthroned in the heart. We are not to put confidence in man or make flesh our arm. We are to be molded and fashioned by the precious truths of the Bible. Daily we are to hold communion with Him who knoweth the end from the beginning. Those who do not do this will be false and unreliable.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 3)
We are to watch and pray; for there are many who are blind leaders of the blind. There are some in Battle Creek who once knew the truth that are now clouds without water, carried about by the winds of controversy. They should beware lest they become trees without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots. The solemn warnings against backsliding, presented in the Word of God, ought to make us afraid, greatly afraid, for our own souls. The Lord has been giving message to His people, urging upon them the necessity of enthroning Christ in the heart, of dying to self, of obeying the Word of God. The solemn realities of eternity demand that we do this. Resistance to the truth is the sin that will be charged against those who reject these repeated appeals—those who choose their own way and lead other souls, step by step, in false paths.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 4)
There are many men in our world who are like Cornelius. They are not fully informed in regard to the truth for this time; and yet, as did Cornelius, they fear God, and follow principles of righteousness. In every sphere of action they work on the principles that God accepts. All through the ages there have been devout men whose lives were an example that others might well follow. They have borne a clear, pure, undefiled testimony for truth and righteousness. In their high position of responsibility, even among accomplished worldly men, they were bright and shining lights. Not all men forget God in their investigation of true science.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 5)
As God worked for Cornelius, so He works for these true standard-bearers. He prepares the way for them to take the place of those who have been given a knowledge of Bible truth, but who have disappointed the Lord our Saviour. These men will be true to pure, holy principles in their investigation of the laws which rule our world. They will obtain a knowledge of God as Cornelius did—through the visitation of angels from heaven. That they may obtain advanced light, God places them in connection with men of superior knowledge regarding His Word.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 6)
There are men of nobility and influence whom the Lord will call into His work and use as His witnesses, if unconsecrated men will not spoil them by flattery and exalt them as gods. There are men awaiting the call to action, who will stand for God in true integrity. They will have a hard battle to fight; for they will sometimes stand in sharp contrast with men who have sacrificed His cause and misinterpreted and falsified His Word. God’s true witnesses will have fearful odds against them; they will have to meet falsehood after falsehood; but if they heed the message for this time, God will give them strength to conquer. He will enable them to testify, by purity and nobility of character, to the power of unadulterated principles. They honor the Lord God of heaven, and the sunshine of His favor will be distinctly seen amidst the clouds of unfaithful stewardship and the clash of falsehood. If they will cling closely to the hand of Infinite Wisdom, they will be given strength to press on in the narrow way cast up for the ransomed of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 7)
Christ will not acknowledge a hypocrite, but He acknowledges and honors those who truly serve Him. He will guide them along the path that leads to everlasting life.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 8)
To know God in His works is true science, but to know God as He is in Christ is life eternal. Providence is still working amongst us. But many who profess to believe God’s Word do not recognize His wonderful working power. Many professing Christians have not an experimental knowledge of God as He is revealed in His Word; therefore they fail to shine as lights in the world. All the disciples of Christ are bound to stand as light-bearers to the world. To them the words are spoken, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 9)
Brother Evans, stand firm for the right. Be constantly on guard. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” [Ephesians 6:10, 11.] Much is at stake now. Those who have turned from the truth to fables will say anything that the enemy puts into their minds. I am charged to say, Believe them not; be not deceived. There are some whose words do eat as a canker, because they will not break from the fellowship of unholy angels. “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 withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” [Verses 12-17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 10)
Tell our brethren who have not sacrificed their faith that God has a people even in Battle Creek. The Lord has warned His people against gathering into Battle Creek, because there they would hear that which would confuse their faith and mislead their judgment. They would not be able to discern that which lies beneath the surface. Who can foresee today the things that unthinking, unconsecrated men will do, and the risks they will run, because they neglect to make the religion of Christ their guide!
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 11)
Christ is the Alpha and the Omega. He is the Rock that is higher than we are. He is our sun and shield. He is wisdom to all who desire to be wise. It is through His might that we conquer. Everything is to be shaken that can be shaken, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 12)
When the Word of the Lord comes to churches and to individuals, there are always those who refuse to hear aright or to see aright. Their defective hearing and seeing put them far out of the way. I am instructed that I am not to stand before those who would interpret my words to mean what they want them to mean. Their eyes are so blinded that they cannot see; their ears are so dulled that they cannot hear. They circulate reports as being what Sister White has said, when I said no such thing.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 13)
My brother, you are in a straight place, but the Lord will be your frontguard and your rearward if you will put your trust in Him. Do not let unsanctified, unconsecrated men lead you or intimidate you. I have been instructed that it is time that there was a thorough investigation of the standing of the Medical Missionary Association and the Sanitarium. Let the strict examination be made in regard to the business that has been transacted in Battle Creek. This will show the standing of the institution. This investigation should have been made long ago. The business standing of all our medical institutions is to be carefully and correctly presented before our people, that they may know the real situation of the medical work, where it stands, what it is doing, whether or not it is producing as well as consuming.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 14)
Such men as have been losing their spiritual discernment are in a very perilous condition. The Lord calls now for men like Cornelius—men who are taught of Him. Men may have been all their lifetime professing Seventh-day Adventists, but this does not make them true men, sanctified and ennobled through the truth. There are some whose ways are right in their own eyes, and who suppose that they are wise, but they are foolish. They are building their house upon the sand, and when the tempest comes, the house will be swept from beneath them. They will perish because they did not build their foundation upon the solid rock.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 15)
May the Lord help you, my brother, to stand firm in this time of trial. I may not be permitted to go to Battle Creek. But if the Lord says, Go, be sure that I shall heed His word. Be of good courage in the Lord God of hosts. Let Him be your fear and your dread.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 16)
In haste.
(19LtMs, Lt 197, 1904, 17)
Lt 199, 1904
Burden, J. A. Nashville, Tennessee June 15, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 12MR 43. Dear Brother Burden,—
I have many things to say which are greatly burdening my mind. I feel pressed as a cart beneath sheaves.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 1)
I have read your letter carefully. My brother, you will need much patience, but do not, I entreat of you, look on the dark side. If ever there was a time when we all needed to make haste slowly, it is now.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 2)
I have a message for you: Do not connect in any way with Battle Creek or with Dr. Kellogg. This God forbids. You will shortly see things that will show you the reason for this. I ask you to be of good courage. Satan is working in every way to bring in an element of rebellion and confusion. Please be patient for a little while longer. Your time and energy should not be absorbed in the health food work; this will not pay. Help them as you have opportunity, but do not bind yourself to that work.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 3)
The Lord will make it manifest to His people that He is God. He wants you to trust wholly in Him. Time is short, and we are seeking the Lord, that we may know and do His will. Let us, my dear brother, hide ourselves with Christ in God. Let us draw near to God, that He may draw near to us. We are every one of us to be heralds of the gospel, that the good news of salvation through Christ may be proclaimed throughout the world. Every soul who has not heard the third angel’s message must hear it.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 4)
Christ is our Advocate in the courts of heaven. To Him we are to make all our appeals. Through Him we have peace with God and rejoice in the hope of salvation. We are to bear to others the glad tidings of pardon through Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 5)
My brother, do not look on the dark side, but proclaim the glad tidings. Do not decide just now to give yourself up to taking a medical course. You know not what may take place. What you and your wife and your sisters need is a strong hold upon the One who can lead you safely. We are God’s little children. We are to be as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life, proclaiming the good news of forgiveness and salvation through a crucified and risen Saviour. We are to walk and work in the meekness and lowliness of Christ, our hearts filled with His peace.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 6)
The enemy is trying to keep minds in an uncertain, unsettled condition, but Christ lives. He is light and hope and assurance forever. Let your light shine forth to others. Let the words of truth come from lips touched with holy fire. We need the life and peace and joy of Christ, that we may help the people.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 7)
The Lord is coming. Let the message of preparation sound forth everywhere. Let it reach from heart to heart, from home to home, from country to country. There are many who are waiting for this message.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 8)
Do not be discouraged. Everything may seem to be in confusion, but the Lord lives, and His peace and His comfort are for you. Difficulties will arise, but there is One who never changes.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 9)
I must now prepare to go to Graysville. We leave Nashville this morning. From Graysville we shall go to Huntsville. I have never visited either of these places.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 10)
All day yesterday we were looking at sanitarium sites. We looked at one beautiful place, about five miles from Nashville, away from the din and the smoke of the city. It is offered for thirty thousand dollars. There are three hundred and eighty-five acres of land, and should we decide to purchase the place, we should hope to sell enough to help to pay for the rest. This place would be a favorable location for a camp-meeting. Elder Butler and Elder Haskell have been searching for a place in the city on which to pitch the tent for tent-meetings, but have not yet succeeded in finding a suitable place.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 11)
I am trusting the Lord God of Israel. We are servants, entrusted by our absent Lord with the charge of His household affairs, and He expects us always to be ready for His return.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 12)
I must close now. Sara has just come in, and says, “Have you your things all ready for me to pack?” Be of good cheer. Have faith in God, and you will see of His salvation. I will write again soon.
(19LtMs, Lt 199, 1904, 13)
Lt 201, 1904
Brethren Who Are Assembled in Council Huntsville, Alabama June 22, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in PCO 97-98. To my brethren who are assembled in council,—
I wish to speak a few words to you with my pen. I would not have needed to write this if you would stand in your place as men who have a work to perform. Our Brother Nicola should have been relieved of his responsibilities ere this. To every man is given his work. The light given me is that the school Board has not done its duty. Notwithstanding that the work on the farm and in the school has not advanced as it should have done, the same faculty have been permitted to exercise their judgment as fully capable men. The result of this has been that the efficiency of the school has been diminishing rather than increasing.
(19LtMs, Lt 201, 1904, 1)
I do not condemn Brother Nicola. This is not my work. If the Board have long seen the lack and the necessity of advancement, and yet have made no change in the faculty, the remissness will be charged to them, and the Lord will look upon them with disfavor. They are supposed to take in the situation, and if they pass over deficiencies without making any change, they are guilty of neglect, and the Lord is displeased.
(19LtMs, Lt 201, 1904, 2)
There is no reason why the Huntsville school and farm should show so little improvement. The Lord looks upon the neglect and charges it to the men who have failed to do their work. It is time that the Board awoke to their duty. The true application of the gospel removes all this spiritual apathy. The Lord calls for fresh power to be brought in by a change of men. No longer let the years pass without new capabilities being brought in—men who will introduce new methods and who will work with determined missionary spirit for the colored people. This school should be enlarging. This can be done and should be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 201, 1904, 3)
This school should be filled with students; but as long as one stands at the head who feels himself to be all-sufficient, and who cannot see his deficiencies, how can this school be an example for other schools that will be set in operation?
(19LtMs, Lt 201, 1904, 4)
Brother Nicola has been here for several years. Let him now give place for someone else to be tested and tried. A man is needed to stand at the head of the school with capabilities that he has not.
(19LtMs, Lt 201, 1904, 5)
It is not right to try to make me carry the burden of doing the work of the Board. I shall not do it. I shall have no more to say in this matter. I shall call upon the Board to do their duty. Act like men, not with hesitancy and with apparent unwillingness to move forward. Do not throw on Sister White the burdens that you should carry.
(19LtMs, Lt 201, 1904, 6)
Lt 203, 1904
Franke, E. E. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California October 1, 1903 Portions of this letter are published in 6MR 243-244. Elder E. E. Franke,—
I have a message for you. During the night season I was in a meeting where you were speaking of Elder Haskell the words which your irritated imagination had been framing against him. There were evil angels in the congregation, who were presenting before you suggestions in accordance with your utterances. The human impulses were awakened, and your words revealed the venom of a heart controlled by evil angels. Had you been under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, you would have looked upon the aged servant of God with tenderness and love, seeing the good accomplished by the stern, hard, earnest, constant labors put forth by him and his wife.
(19LtMs, Lt 203, 1904, 1)
The success that has attended Elder Haskell and his wife has not been used to glorify themselves, but to glorify God. They have sought to bring souls under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and God has used them as channels through which to send light and truth to those in darkness. He has made their efforts successful, and they have been the means in His hands of opening the understanding of many, leading them to work for the salvation of others.
(19LtMs, Lt 203, 1904, 2)
In the meeting there were not only evil angels, but good angels. One of dignity and authority addressed the meeting, speaking words of instruction to those assembled. He said that a rebuke should be given to the one who had spoken against Christ in the person of His saints. “The one who has spoken thus,” He said, “has so long indulged appetite that his stomach and nerves are diseased; and he speaks words that are cruel and untrue. A man who can give expression to sentiments such as he has given expression to at this meeting should cease all evangelical labor until he can understand that by his course he is lowering the tone of Christian character. His prejudices are unjust and without foundation. His mind has become diseased, so that he cannot distinguish between that which should be condemned and that which should be approved. The Word of God gives no one liberty to speak as he has spoken in any assembly where God is worshiped.”
(19LtMs, Lt 203, 1904, 3)
Our Counsellor continued, “Call the most thoughtful, spiritual-minded of the church together, and lay the matter of grievance before several men of truth and righteousness. Let calmness and kindness prevail. Let the facts speak for themselves. Let confessions of errors be made. Then if there is not a clear and decided settling of the difficulty, tell the matter to the church, and let the voice of the church be heeded. But if any man refuse to hear the church, let him be set aside until he shall understand the true Christian methods of dealing with others.
(19LtMs, Lt 203, 1904, 4)
“A minister of the gospel who acts as those act who have not the fear of God in their hearts, bringing in confusion and hindering the work, should no longer be granted credentials, unless he repents and gives evidence that an entire change has taken place in his heart. A man who follows such a course should not be acknowledged as a minister of the gospel; for his work is against the truth.”
(19LtMs, Lt 203, 1904, 5)
The light given me is that our churches must not be spoiled by the unchristlike course of unconsecrated men. I shall have to make more public than I have done my letters of reproof and correction, because those who are reproved make known those portions of the testimony that encourage them if they will follow the course outlined by God and withhold the plain words of warning and caution. Such a course as this makes it necessary to present matters as they are, that the enemy may not be permitted to work his will upon our churches by leading them to suppose that Sister White’s testimonies justify a man who wounds and bruises the souls of his fellow men.
(19LtMs, Lt 203, 1904, 6)
Recently letters have come to me asking if I have condemned Elder Haskell and encouraged Elder Franke in the work that he has been doing against Elder Haskell. No, indeed! The light that has been given me is that Elder Haskell was not sustained by his brethren as he should have been during his labors in New York. It is the Lord’s will that when His servants shall go into fields as difficult as New York, that they shall receive encouragement and help for the doing of that which needs to be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 203, 1904, 7)
Lt 205, 1904
Franke, E. E. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California October 9, 1903 Portions of this letter are published in 2MCP 383-384, 768; Ev 139. Elder E. E. Franke,—
I have always taken a special interest in you and your family. You have made earnest, painstaking efforts to stand before the world and present the Word of truth. Were you wholly consecrated to God, your work would be a power for good. But you have not always labored in a way that God can approve.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 1)
You have some traits of character that unfit you to deal wisely with human minds. You do not work in a way that will produce the best results. You have chosen to work in a way that wears yourself out and absorbs a large amount of means.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 2)
This expensive outlay of means has been presented before you in its true bearing, and you have been told that such a way of working is not in harmony with the will of God. Your expensive and peculiar methods of labor may appear at first to make a strong impression on the people, but they soon reach the conclusion that the display is made to call attention to yourself and your wife and children. The large expenditure of means is not in harmony with the solemn truths presented. Self has been placed on exhibition.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 3)
The excitement under which you work is injuring your brain and wearing away your life forces. Your inconsistencies are becoming more and more marked. You act from impulse. Your perverse temperament, together with the sentiments and influence of your family, leads you to think that you are not given the honor that you deserve. You bring in discord and contention.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 4)
This is bringing such heavy burdens upon the cause that it must be dealt with. Elder Daniells has labored with you. Elder Haskell has labored for you in brotherly love, to save you from ruining your influence. He has felt that you have capabilities which, if kept under the discipline of God, would accomplish much good.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 5)
Your physical habits lead to wrong moral habits. The violation of right habits of eating, drinking, and dressing is displeasing to God and is disqualifying you for the gospel ministry. Whatever disturbs the harmonious action of one part of the body lessens the efficiency of the whole. The susceptibilities are paralyzed, and the truth loses its sanctifying influence on the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 6)
Wrong physical habits injure the brain, and the whole system becomes deranged. An effort may be made to brace the wearied nerves by taking stimulants, but this will not remove the difficulty.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 7)
Unless a decided change is made, unless there is an intelligent recognition of the necessity of giving the brain rest instead of stimulants, the human agent will lose his self-control and will disgrace the cause of God by accusing his brethren unjustly.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 8)
This you have done again and again. The course you are following will result in dishonor to the truth unless you make a change. You present the truth to large congregations, and if there are those who accept the truth under your labors, you endeavor to bind them to yourself, as if they were your property. This is contrary to the Word of God. The minister who becomes filled with the idea that he is able of himself to gain success in the work of God, and who draws people to himself instead of to Christ, refusing to take the humble position that every minister of the gospel should take, is greatly dishonoring God.
(19LtMs, Lt 205, 1904, 9)
Lt 207, 1904
Sperry, Byron Nashville, Tennessee June 28, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 188. My dear brother Byron Sperry,—
I plead with God, as your true and faithful mother and father would wish me to do, that He will save you from making shipwreck of the faith. Tempted and perplexed by Satan, you have lost much of great value out of your life experience that you might have retained and developed. Had you cultivated for wise and good purposes the talents God has given you, you would now be a power in the proclamation of the truth for this time. But you have not given your heart and mind unreservedly to the service of the Master. You have not obeyed the words, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.] But there is yet time for you to give yourself wholly to the work of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 1)
I saw an angel of God standing by your side, pointing you upward. This angel ministered to your father and mother and has offered you his protection, but you have often turned from him and have been seeking to follow your own way. Thus you have become estranged from God.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 2)
You need constantly a heavenly guide. You needed this in your youth, and you need it now. Age is beginning to tell upon you, and more than ever you need the help of the divine Counsellor. You are living amidst the perils of the last days. Now, just now, you need the converting power of the Spirit of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 3)
Happy is the man who has discovered for himself that the Word of God is a light to his feet and a lamp to his path—a light shining in a dark place. It is heaven’s directory for men. But there are many, O so many, who have no guide besides the opinions of finite men, prejudice, passion, or their own changeable feelings. Their minds are in a state of irritation and uncertainty. They suffer continually from mental fever.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 4)
Were you following Christ, the Word of God would be to you as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. But you have not made the honor of God the first object of your lifework. You have the Bible. Study it for yourself. The teachings of the divine directory are not to be ignored or perverted. The divine mind will guide those who desire to be led. Truth is truth, and it will enlighten all who seek for it with humble hearts. Error is error, and no amount of worldly philosophizing can make it truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 5)
“Ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:20.] What does the Lord require of His blood-bought heritage? The sanctification of the whole being—purity like the purity of Christ, perfect conformity to the will of the Lord. What is it that constitutes the beauty of the soul?—The presence of the grace of Him who gave His life to redeem men and women from eternal death.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 6)
Sin is a hateful thing. It marred the moral beauty of a large number of angels. It entered our world and well-nigh obliterated the image of God in man. But in His great love God provided a way whereby man might regain the position from which he fell in yielding to the tempter. Christ came to stand at the head of humanity, to work out in our behalf a perfect character. Those who receive Him are born again. “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 7)
Christ saw humanity, through the working of the mighty growth of sin, demoniacally possessed by the prince of the power of the air and putting forth gigantic strength in exploits of evil. But He saw also that a mightier power was to meet and conquer Satan. “Now is the judgment of this world,” He said; “now shall the prince of this world be cast out.” [John 12:31.] He saw that if human beings believed on Him, they would be given power against the host of fallen angels, whose name is legion. Christ strengthened his soul by the thought that by the wonderful sacrifice which He was about the make, the prince of this world was to be cast out, and men and women placed where, through the grace of God, they could regain what they had lost.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 8)
No entreaties are so tender, no lessons so plain, no commands so powerful and so protecting, no promises so full, as those which point the sinner to the fountain that has been opened to wash away the guilt of the human soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 9)
Many who profess to be children of God have been placing themselves under the banner of rebellion. My brother, have you been doing this? I entreat you to beware. Those who use their influence to make difficult the labors of the men who are carrying heavy burdens in the Lord’s work are dishonoring their Redeemer. Those who oppose the weary efforts of the men who are laboring in portions of the vineyard, that for many years have been left unworked, will have a heavy account to settle with God unless they make a change and co-operate with His appointed messengers. I greatly fear for those in Battle Creek who are allowing themselves to be led to endeavor to block the way of the work of God by their human devising. I am writing to them, hoping that they will heed the words of entreaty and counsel given me for them. I pray that they will obey the warning to be careful what course they pursue.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 10)
I pray that those in Battle Creek, who for years have resisted the admonitions of God, will discover their dangers before it is forever too late. There is hope for all who will see how perilous it is to deceive one’s own soul. There is hope for all who will confess the folly of standing on the side of the first great traitor, of uniting with the satanic agencies who, clothed with garments of light, are contending against Omnipotence. Can men and women cherish thoughts and do deeds that are opposed to the will of God, and yet expect peace of mind? Can they be happy while they walk in the path that God has forbidden them to follow?
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 11)
The Lord will not be trifled with. We cannot afford to expose ourselves to the wrath of the Lamb by disregarding the commandments of Jehovah. Those who follow on to know the Lord will know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. Those who are willing to learn the lessons that Christ teaches, and to submit to His will, will know how wonderful, how free, how complete is the forgiveness provided by Him who was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 12)
We hear of young people in Battle Creek being converted, and for this we praise the Lord. But how my soul has yearned to receive word that those who have left their first love had realized their condition and had turned to God in repentance. The message comes to them, “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.” [Revelation 3:17, 18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 13)
It is holiness that is the honor of a man. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Without this wisdom, any supposed knowledge or quickness that a man may have is worthless. The highest talents cannot give beauty to the soul unless they are consecrated to God. The unsanctified man may think that his knowledge of affairs and of men gives him power. But unless the truth is established in the heart, causing the life to reveal holiness to God, the talents are perverted, and the enemy uses his talents and abilities to lead him on to ruin.
(19LtMs, Lt 207, 1904, 14)
Lt 209, 1904
Henry, A. R. Nashville, Tennessee June 24, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 445-446. My brother A. R. Henry,—
I have a message for you. Let the longings of your soul for the rest of your life be after God. Is it well with your soul? Consider, O consider, and be wise, now, just now. The Lord has charged me to tell you that there is hope for you if you will turn about and serve Him with humility of heart. Break with the tempter, and take your stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Spiritual life is offered you if you will repent and obey the law of God. If you will submit your will to the will of Christ and accept of His salvation, you will be justified through the merits of the crucified and risen Saviour.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 1)
There is no safety in leaving Christ out of your life for one moment. A vigilant foe is constantly watching to find you off your guard, that he may take you captive. In perfect conformity to the will of God there is perfect safety. All the powers of the being are to be employed in the service of God. We are to ask and receive the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the life of the soul. This is its happiness. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] It is that we may have eternal life that God asks us to obey His law. The soul must have an indwelling Christ, or die.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 2)
The whole heavenly universe is subject to the laws of heaven. To these laws also man is subject. It is only by observing these laws that he can preserve the harmony and order of his being. If man disregards these laws, the balance of his being is destroyed, and a piece of God’s workmanship becomes a wreck. Obedience to God’s laws brings life and health and peace and joy; disobedience brings weakness and death.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 3)
God calls upon those who have backslidden to make a determined effort to obtain liberty and life, regardless of what others may say or do. Self is to be kept very humble. We cannot exalt ourselves and be safe. He who exalts himself and seeks to thwart the purposes of God is in fearful danger. Unless he sees his peril and makes a change, it would be better for him if he had never been born.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 4)
I have a message for those in Battle Creek who have been overcome by the temptation of the adversary. I call upon those who are accusing their brethren and who are taking an attitude that hinders the Lord’s work to come into harmony. Criticize yourselves, not your brethren. Come into union with God and Christ; then there will be unity among you and your brethren.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 5)
My brethren, I declare to you the only safe course you can pursue for your present and eternal good is to lay hold on the hope set before you in the gospel. “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape if we neglect the great salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to His own will?” [Hebrews 2:1-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 6)
“Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; who was faithful to Him that appointed Him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house. For this Man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honor than the house. For every house is builded by some man; but He that built all things is God. And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; but Christ as a Son over His own house; whose house we are, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.” [Hebrews 3:1-6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 7)
O my brother, why have you made so many strange and crooked paths for your feet? God laid upon you the responsibility of setting your children a correct example in business and religious matters. Have you done this?
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 8)
I beg of you, for Christ’s sake, not to find fault with others, but to deal with your own mistakes. Notwithstanding the trouble and perplexity you have made for others, the Lord is very merciful, and if you repent, He will pardon you. But you cannot gain favor with God by trying to make your brethren appear in the worst light. Your only hope is to deal honestly with yourself. Keep away from worldly lawyers. This is the rock on which many have wrecked their barque.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 9)
We are deeply grieved to know that there are in Battle Creek those who, though professing to be medical missionaries, are not always Christlike in their dealings with their brethren. They have need of healing. But it will not help you to point to their deficiencies.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 10)
There is hope for all who repent. “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. Therefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do always err in their hearts; 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.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 11)
“For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.” [Verses 7-14.] This you have not done. And because you have been regarded as a man of business ability, your influence has led others in wrong paths. I beg of you to stop and consider. Do not make a raid on your brethren. Leave them with God. Take hold of your own case. The question is one of life or death for you. Remember that if God is merciful to you, He will be merciful to others.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 12)
Remember that to a large degree you have originated the difficulties that have reacted on you. Improve the opportunity offered you to turn to God in repentance. You are not to convince others of their wrongdoing, but to take yourself in hand, and seek the Lord with all the powers of your being. “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke.” [Verses 15, 16.] Yes, they talked in a heated, excited manner. They stamped their feet and were determined to carry out their plans, even as you have been.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 13)
Your perceptions have been sadly interwoven with evil; but it is not too late to repent. Now, just now, the Spirit is calling you to return to the Lord. You have no happiness, no peace. Your desire to obtain money has been your snare. You have allowed this desire to lead you to embarrass the work of God. But is the money that you have obtained worth the anxiety, the toil, the misconception, the perplexity that it costs?
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 14)
You are needy, helpless, undone. Plead the atoning sacrifice of Christ. Cease your rebellion against God. Open the door of your heart to the knock of the heavenly Guest. Your prayers are worthless unless you have faith in the One who gave His life for you. He died on the cross of Calvary that you might not perish. This is the great day of atonement, in which all are to humble their hearts before God, trusting in the efficacy of Christ’s sacrifice.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 15)
The gifts of the Spirit, the promises of pardon, of consolation, the proffers of assistance, the invitations of love—all the provisions peculiar to the gospel are for you. However sinful you may have been, God will receive you if you will now repent. Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Open your cold, proud heart to the Saviour. Confess, confess your sins. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” [1 John 1:9.] Confess your own sins, and leave others to confess theirs. Make everything right between your soul and God. Accept Christ’s gracious invitation. He will break the delusion that is upon your mind if you will lay hold of His strength. Will you not cease working in opposition to God? You have wrought out much on Satan’s side, yet the Lord’s hand is stretched out still. He is calling on you to repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Let your heart break; let your love go out to Him who gave His life that you might live. Let your will become submissive to the will of God. Then you will drink at a purer fountain, even the fountain of living water.
(19LtMs, Lt 209, 1904, 16)
Lt 211, 1904
Ministers in Southern California Nashville, Tennessee June 30, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 43-47. To the Ministers in Southern California Dear Brethren,—
I have no desire to hurt the soul of any one, but I must bear the straight testimony given me. Some of the ministers and leaders in the Southern California Conference need to realize the necessity of counselling with their brethren who have been long in the work and who have thus gained a valuable experience. Their disposition to shut themselves up to themselves and to feel competent to plan and execute, according to their own judgment and preferences, brings them into financial embarrassment. Then, when the embarrassment bears heavily upon them, they are tempted to think that the Union Conference or the General Conference should help them out. This independent way of working is not right and should not be followed. The ministers and teachers in our Conferences are to work unitedly with their brethren of experience, asking them for advice and paying heed to this advice.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 1)
Earnest work should be done in Southern California in carrying the Fernando school forward successfully, and earnest work should be done in establishing a sanitarium near Los Angeles. Several buildings have already been offered for sale. If these are not suitable, or if they cannot be purchased for a reasonable sum, land should be purchased and buildings erected.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 2)
Our smaller Conferences should be careful not to create burdens of debt for the General Conference to carry. At times inconsiderate moves are made, buildings are put up without sufficient thought as to their use, and responsibilities are assumed where there is not ability to carry these responsibilities. Thus money is absorbed that brings no returns. Enterprises are started which consume without producing. This is not as it should be.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 3)
Diligent efforts should be made to lessen the debt resting on the school, but these efforts should be made by all. I have supposed that Christ’s Object Lessons, handled discretely, would do much toward relieving our schools from debt, and I believe that this book will yet be the means of doing much to help the Fernando school.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 4)
I do not see the wisdom of the school’s depending on the second tithe to meet so much of its expenses. I fear that if the brethren rely so much upon this that difficulties will arise. You should labor patiently to develop those industries by which students can partly work their way through school.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 5)
Let each family try to pay the expenses of the students that it sends to school. Some families, in which there are several children attending school, will be hard pressed. Would it not be wisdom to create a fund by the sale of Christ’s Object Lessons for the assistance of such ones? There are many young people who desire to be in school, and who ought to be, but who have no means. These young people can be helped through school if our people will do their duty in handling Object Lessons.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 6)
The purchase of the school buildings at Fernando was in the order of God. Valuable property was obtained at a price far below its original cost. The brethren did right to buy it, and the school can be sustained if the families of believers in Southern California will do their best to make it a success. The young men and women who expect to attend school should do all in their power, before entering the school, to earn money to meet their expenses.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 7)
A Special Work
There is a special work to be done just now. A sanitarium should be established near Los Angeles. My brethren, will you not remember that it is the expressed will of God that this shall be done? Why this work should be delayed from year to year is a great mystery. This is a matter that has long been kept before you, my brethren. Again and again sanitarium work has been pointed out as an important means of reaching the people with the truth. Had the light given by God been followed, this institution might now be in running order, exerting a strong influence for good. Arrangements could have been made to utilize for sanitarium work buildings already erected.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 8)
In order for successful work to be done in the field or in our institutions, workers with harmonious elements of character are needed. The work can be carried forward only by patience and harmony of action. It has been a lack of harmony, a lack of determination on the part of the workers to lift with one purpose in view, that has delayed the establishment of a sanitarium in Southern California. There has been so much variance that means which should have been invested in a sanitarium has been turned into other channels.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 9)
The idea that a sanitarium should not be established, unless it could be started free from debt, has put the brake upon the wheels of progress. In building meetinghouses we have had to borrow money, in order that something might be done at once. We have been obliged to do this, in order to fulfil the directions of God. Persons deeply interested in the progress of the work have borrowed money and paid interest on it to help establish schools and sanitariums and to build meeting houses. The institutions thus established and the churches built have been the means of winning many to the truth. Thus the tithe has been increased, and workers have been added to the Lord’s forces.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 10)
Will my brethren consider this, and work in accordance with the light which God has given us, regarding the work in Southern California? Let that which should be done be done without delay. Do your best to remedy the neglect of the past. The word has come once more that a sanitarium is to be set in working order near Los Angeles. If this sanitarium is conducted in harmony with the will of God, it will be a means of great blessing, a means in the Lord’s hands of leading souls to the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 11)
Christ’s Object Lessons
I wish to say a few words more about the circulation of Christ’s Object Lessons. My brethren, show our people what they can do in handling this book. As tourists from all parts of the world flock into Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California, let there be those who can call their attention to this book. It is full of precious truth, and as it is presented to unbelievers, angels of God will impress many to buy it. Let those who do this work keep in mind the words, “As unto the Lord.” [Colossians 3:23.] The purpose for which it is done will invest this work with a dignity that will improve the habits, the manners, and the address of the workers. By this effort the poorest, humblest worker is linked with the great Master Worker.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 12)
In order to be ready to receive the impressions of the Holy Spirit, in order to advance in harmony with the will of the Lord, we need consecrated minds and hearts. Let not human beings seek to put their own plans and preferences in the place of God’s plans. Those who do this will hinder the Lord’s work. Let no one say or do anything that will discourage Christlike effort. To each one God has given his work. If every one would be zealous to increase his ability to labor, how much would be accomplished.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 13)
The Lord wants you, my brethren, to arouse to action the minds of those who do not realize that God is calling them to active service. Tell them that their obedient love, in willing effort, is to flow forth as streams in the desert. Day by day what they accomplish is to give evidence that they are laborers together with God. The work that the Lord places before them may be dreaded, but they will gain courage as they advance.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 14)
Let all do something. All can do much more than they have done. Let parents and children help. The consciousness that they are coworkers with Christ will give the workers a joy and assurance that they could gain in no other way. And not only will relief be brought to the schools, but the light of truth will be widely diffused.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 15)
The experience gained by the youth who engage in this work will be of great value to them, teaching them to improve every God-given opportunity to labor with diligence and fidelity and with perseverance under disappointment. The Lord makes a way for all who employ the means He has provided for the accomplishment of certain objects.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 16)
My brethren and sisters in Southern California, educate yourselves to work for the Master. Remember that in helping to circulate Object Lessons, you are placing before others truths which cannot fail of being a blessing to them. Each one of God’s people has a part to act in the work of the Redeemer. Those who receive Christ are to prove their love for Him by earnest, self-sacrificing efforts in His service. No opportunity for helping to advance the Lord’s cause is to be allowed to pass by. In meekness and lowliness, yet with an earnest determination to accomplish something for the blessing of others, God’s children are to take hold of His work.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 17)
Only a small part of that which may be accomplished has yet been done in circulating Christ’s Object Lessons. Let not our people think that their duty is done, their work finished. This book is still to be taken out by God’s people and is to find its place in many more homes. Let the same territory be gone over and over again. In this there will be a blessing for the one who sells the book and for those who buy it.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 18)
Let us take hold of the work with renewed courage. Let God’s people consecrate to His service the time and tact that He has given them. O what a wonderful blessing many will obtain from the consciousness that they are working for God. This thought will help them to do their work intelligently.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 19)
My brethren and sisters, by earnest prayer brace yourselves for duty, and then expect the help of the Lord. Prove yourselves to be laborers together with God. As you go forth to sell Object Lessons, repeat again and again the words, “Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] With this as your motto, press on with the work.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 20)
With humble hearts begin afresh, and by your words and example encourage those who have never tried to sell the book to make an effort. Let all that you do be done gracefully and cheerfully and well. Learn to ask the Lord to help you and believe that He surely will. The work that is undertaken in the name of the Lord and for the purpose of placing the light before the people will be blessed by Him. What is needed is workers who are humble and contrite. He who lives near the Saviour will reveal in his life that he has held communion with Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 211, 1904, 21)
Lt 213, 1904
Richart, Brother and Sister Nashville, Tennessee June 30, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 267. Dear Brother and Sister Richart,—
I am at present visiting my son Edson and his wife. I would very much like to sit down and talk with you, but as this cannot be, I will write to you to thank you, my brother and sister, for the encouragement you have given my son. He tells me that you have repeatedly sent him means to help the work here. We thank you for this.
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 1)
We have had a very pleasant visit here. We found Edson so busy that he could hardly take time to sleep or rest. We have tried to help him carry the load.
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 2)
I found my son living a few miles from Nashville on a ten-acre piece of ground. He has a small printing establishment here. He and his wife have rooms above his offices; but when we came, they gave up these rooms to us and took up their quarters in a small cottage on the place.
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 3)
We have enjoyed the society of our children very much. Soon after we came here, Edson took us all for a trip up the river in his steamer, “Morning Star.” Brethren Magan and Sutherland were here looking for land on which to establish a school for the training of teachers, and we thought that perhaps it might be well to look for a way up the river. Then, too, Edson was very weary, and so was I, and we thought that a few days’ rest and quiet would be a blessing to us both. And it proved to be a very great blessing. I was able to sleep well every night while on the boat. The rest and peace did me much good. The scenery was beautiful, and we all enjoyed looking at it.
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 4)
Our brethren were anxious to go up the river as far as Carthage, where they had heard that land could be purchased for five or six dollars an acre. But when they reached there, they found, on making inquiry, that land is just about the same price as it is nearer Nashville.
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 5)
I will send you a copy of a letter that I had written about the places we have visited in the South. Last Monday we went to see a place about five miles from Nashville that is offered for sale for thirty thousand dollars. There were some who thought that this property might be used for sanitarium work. The place is a beautiful one, and the house is elaborately finished inside with fresco work. But it would not do at all for a sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 6)
As I looked at the beauty of the rooms, I did so want to repeat the words: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.” [1 Corinthians 2:9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 7)
Of the patriarchs and prophets it is written, “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had an opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly; wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for He hath prepared for them a city.” [Hebrews 11:13-16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 8)
“The city had no need of the moon, neither of the sun, to shine in it; for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it; and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it. And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day; for there shall be no night there. And they shall bring the glory and honor of the nations into it. And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie; but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” [Revelation 21:23-27.]
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 9)
“Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him?” [Hebrews 2:1-3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 213, 1904, 10)
Lt 214, 1904
Hare, G. A. Washington, D. C. August 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dr. G. A. Hare My Brother,—
At times in the past your life has not been of a character to glorify God. You have made grave mistakes and have given occasion for others to say that which has hurt your reputation as a Christian.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 1)
You and your wife have been lax in regard to the principles of health reform. You have said that your wife thinks she could not live if she did not eat meat, and you I fear take it for granted that she must have it. I have met cases before where it was said that the blood was turning to water, and where physicians have said that meat must be made the principle article of diet. But my message to such has been, Let meat alone, and the health will change for the better. Accustom yourselves to a fruit and vegetable diet, and receive the message that the Lord has given to His people on health reform.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 2)
The sickness of your wife is a sickness caused in part by her diet. The use of flesh meats is largely responsible for her ill health. If she would take up the work God has appointed her to do, if she would be truly converted and adopt a healthful diet, subsisting on simple foods for one year, she would find her health improving. By the exercise of faith and prayer, she would have strength to overcome her desire for that which is injuring her.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 3)
As a physician it is your duty to understand the evils of a flesh-meat diet; as Christians it is your privilege to bring your desires and appetites under the purifying, refining influence of the Spirit of God. Those who make their diet of fruits and grains and vegetables are much more susceptible to religious influences than are those who indulge their desires for flesh meat. I have no recommendation to give in the line of eating the flesh of dead animals.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 4)
I am instructed to say to you that your indulgence in meat-eating is educating your children to form wrong habits of living, and it is inconsistent with the principles for the promulgation of which our sanitariums are established. In our sanitariums an example of meat-eating should not be given by those who stand as the representatives of health-reform principles. Fruit and grains, if carefully prepared, will be found to be more palatable than meat. Our health institutions are to be an educating power in the world, teaching men and women to discard those habits and practices which tend to keep them in sickness and wrongdoing.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 5)
I plead for our sanitariums to be located away from the cities, where the children and youth can learn to cultivate the soil and to develop naturally. In the country they can develop healthful bodies and clear minds by the exercise to be found in out-of-door work. This is in harmony with the instruction that has been given me. We should endeavor to establish our institutions where there is plenty of land to be cultivated. The patients should have plenty of outdoor employment and recreation. Give them opportunity to exercise their muscles by caring for flowers and fruit and vegetables. There is healing for disease in out-of-door life. The Lord will act His part in providing sunshine and showers; let men and women be taught to do their part in cultivating the soil.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 6)
Fruits and grains and vegetables are the very best kinds of food for your wife and family. It is quite a common thing in these days for animal flesh to be diseased. Fish also is coming to be largely diseased. Flesh eating will prove injurious, but a healthful diet will build up physical and mental strength and make men strong and more intelligent for the work He intends them to do in the world. As intelligent human beings God expects us to place ourselves in right relation to life; we can only secure the best dispositions and inclinations by leaving alone those things which we know to be injurious to physical, mental, and spiritual life.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 7)
Not long ago a sister came to our sanitarium in Wahroonga, Australia, who had not learned to overcome her desire for flesh meat. Her husband was a physician, and it was hoped that when she was in a place where she could have an abundance of fresh fruit and the best kind of food, she would lose her taste for meat. But unless meat was provided, she imagined she was sick and faint and would at times sink off into unconsciousness. A letter was written to me asking counsel. The case of this woman was revealed to me, and I was shown that she was allowing her desires to control her physical system for evil. I wrote to the physicians that it would be better [for] this woman healthwise if she would leave meat alone entirely; for the use of meat tended to animalize her nature and to make her disposition changeable and excitable.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 8)
I had myself long before this discarded the use of meat and had firmly resolved that I would not again make this an article of my diet. There was a time when I thought, as many others have thought, that meat was essential for my life. I suffered from fainting spells, which at times were very severe. But the light of health reform was given me, and I was shown the dangers of meat eating. The effect of meat upon the system is to stimulate, but the period of stimulation is always followed by feelings of depression and lassitude. I was counseled by One who never makes a mistake to avoid the use of this stimulus. I was also instructed that rich pastries and sweetened breads were not best for the health of the human stomach. The rich desserts sometimes brought on the table near the close of the meal are detrimental to health. They can be dispensed with, and thus time and money and health be saved.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 9)
Brother and Sister Hare, the Lord wants you to sanctify yourselves, body, soul, and spirit, for your own good, for the good of your children, and for the good of the sanitarium. The Lord has not left you. But He would have you come into right relation to Himself and to thoroughly cleanse your souls from everything that would defile. You need the experience of a thorough work of grace on the heart before you can truly reveal the value of health reform. “I beseech you by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” [Romans 12:1.] It is required of you that you bring the principles of health reform into your life practice. This means everything to you. You will have severe battles to fight with your inclinations and your old habits; but this conversion must take place in your lives before you can be prepared for the perfect indwelling of the Spirit of God. This is your hope of success in perfecting a Christian character. Your mind must be cleansed, your soul refined. Then you will be prepared to help your children to be what God desires they shall be. True conversion will prove a great blessing to Brother and Sister Hare.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 10)
For forty years I have taken only two meals a day, because I have believed it best for me to do this. I realize that I must eat simple, easily digested foods. No cheese or butter comes on my table, but we are careful to provide good, palatable, and nourishing food. We cannot expect the stomach to be in a healthy condition if we are careless in regard to our eating. We should treat it wisely. We have no right to put into it at one meal a heterogeneous mass of food without regard to the disagreement that may be caused thereby. God has given us thinking powers to reason about these matters, and we are guilty before God if we do not study from cause to effect.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 11)
If we do not have respect for the organs of our bodies, our health will testify to the abuse. I say to you, Take care of your digestive organs. Your will must control your desires. By the exercise of the will power in the matter of mastication you can bring your food into a proper state for stomach digestion before it leaves the mouth.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 12)
The organs of our body should be regarded as sacred machinery, which must not be neglected or overworked. Eat simply of a few things at one meal. I follow this practice, and I find that in two meals a day I can fully satisfy my needs. Our table is never set for the third meal; yet if any of my workers desire an evening meal, they are at liberty to take it. Flesh meat we exclude from our table altogether.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 13)
We have a continual warfare to maintain against our individual habits and practices; but it is possible for us to come off more than conquerors in our battle with self. We will do much to aid in the work of overcoming if we will heed the following simple rules:
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 14)
Eat simply and slowly. Encourage a cheerful spirit, and let your conversation be pleasant and uplifting. Let the words of your mouth express gratitude to the Father above. Let the spirit of faultfinding and complaining be put away, and encourage a spirit of peace and lovingkindness. Enjoy the good gifts of God; ask His blessing on the food you eat, and leave the table, not with a loaded stomach, but with a grateful heart for the blessings received.
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 15)
If we will exercise good, sound, common sense in the matter of diet, the one who prepares our food will not be made a slave to our desires. O that we might see the working [of] the subduing power of grace upon human hearts. I ask you that you will let the grace of Christ prepare you, body, soul, and spirit, for the companionship of holy beings in the kingdom of heaven. This fitting up must be a daily work, a daily fighting against earthly desires, a daily conquering of human tendencies. Will you be a conqueror?
(19LtMs, Lt 214, 1904, 16)
Lt 215, 1904
Davis, Marian Nashville, Tennessee June 30, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 35-44. + Dear Sister Davis,—
Friday morning, June 17, accompanied by Willie, Sara, and Maggie, I left Nashville for Graysville, where I spent Sabbath and Sunday.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 1)
I found that the work at Graysville has made much progress. Graysville is a homelike place, a pretty little village in a valley surrounded by hills. A large part of the village is made up of the homes of Seventh-day Adventists. Timber is cheap in that part of the country, and building does not cost as much as it does in many other places.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 2)
On Sabbath morning I spoke to a large congregation in our church. The Lord was with me, and I had much freedom in speaking. Three ministers from outside churches were present. Elder Butler spoke in the afternoon.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 3)
On Sunday we were taken to see the different lines of work that are being carried on by our people in Graysville. We went over the school buildings, and then we visited the twenty-five-acre farm on the hill, which is largely planted out to peaches. The young trees looks thrifty. After looking at this, we went to see the four-hundred-acre farm which has recently been acquired by the Conference and has been leased to the school. On this farm we saw large fields of corn being cultivated by the students, broad pasture land, and on the hill thirty acres of strawberries.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 4)
The school is doing well. An addition is needed to the main building; for the chapel is not large enough. But we advised those in charge to wait until the sanitarium could be put in running order. Finishing and equipping this institution will require all the means that they can command at present.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 5)
From the school farm we drove to the sanitarium. I am much interested in this institution. It is built on the mountainside in the midst of a grove of trees. There are pine, oak, chestnut, hickory, and many other varieties of beautiful trees. With proper care this grove can be made very beautiful. It is as healthful a location for a sanitarium as I have ever seen. It is a place that you would delight in. The view from the top storey is very fine. I was taken to the spring, which is a little farther up the mountain. This spring gives an abundance of soft, pure water and is a treasure of inestimable worth.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 6)
On our return, the brother who was driving stopped at the homes of many of our brethren in the village. I did not get out of the carriage, but we drove up to the gate, and the friends came out and shook hands with me. Whole families, father, mother, and children, came out to speak to me, and I shook hands with each one, not forgetting the children.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 7)
We found Brother and Sister Stewart living in a home of their own. They have a comfortable little cottage and two acres of land planted with berries, grapes, plums, and other kinds of fruit. Twice while I was in Graysville they sent me a box of raspberries, which they had picked from their own garden.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 8)
Brother Robert Kilgore has a home in Graysville. He is now holding tent meetings in a village in northern Georgia, about seventy-five miles south. Sister Kilgore is with him. Their son Charles is business manager of the Graysville school. He went with us to show us the different places of interest.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 9)
Elder Smith Sharp lives near the school, and his daughter, Mrs. Lenker, who for several years has been matron of the school home, is now living in her own new house nearby. Brother and Sister Lenker entertained us during our visit.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 10)
Elder Sharp’s mother lives with him. She is nearly ninety years old. She is a cheerful woman, in possession of all her mental faculties, but is blind and almost deaf. We had a very pleasant conversation with her, and before we left we had a season of prayer together.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 11)
Our visit to Graysville was a very pleasant one. We were sorry that we could not stay longer, so that we might have more time to talk with the brethren and sisters there.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 12)
Early on Monday morning we took the train for Huntsville. We reached the school at one o’clock the same day. That afternoon we were taken over a portion of the school farm. We find that there are nearly four hundred acres of land, a large part of which is under cultivation. Several years ago Brother S. M. Jacobs was in charge of the farm, and under his care it made great improvement. He set out a peach and plum orchard and other fruit trees. Brother and Sister Jacobs left Huntsville about three years ago, and since then the farm has not been so well cared for. We see in the land promise of a much larger return than it now gives, were its managers given the help they need.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 13)
Brother Jacobs put forth most earnest, disinterested efforts, but he was not given the help that his strength demanded. Sister Jacobs also worked very hard, and when her health began to give way, they decided to leave Huntsville and go to some place where the strain would not be so heavy. Had they then been furnished with efficient helpers and with the means necessary to make the needed improvements, the advancement made would have given Brother Jacobs encouragement. But the means that ought to have gone to Huntsville did not go, and we see the result in the present showing. Recently the suggestion has been made that the school at Huntsville is too large, and perhaps it would be better to sell the property there and establish the school elsewhere. But in the night season instruction was given me that this farm must not be sold. The Lord’s money was invested in the Huntsville school farm to provide a place for the education of colored students. The General Conference gave this land to the Southern work, and the Lord has shown me what this school may become and what those may become who go there for instruction if His plans are followed.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 14)
There is need at the Huntsville school of a change in the faculty. There is need of money and of sound, intelligent generalship, that things may be well kept up and that the school may give evidence that Seventh-day Adventists mean to make a success of whatever they undertake.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 15)
Wise plans are to be laid for the cultivation of the land. The students are to be given a practical education in agriculture. This education will be of inestimable value to them in their future work. Thorough work is to be done in cultivating the land, and from this the students are to learn how necessary it is to do thorough work in cultivating the garden of the heart.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 16)
The facilities necessary for the success of the school must be provided. At present the facilities are very meager. There is not a bathroom on the premises. A small building should be put up in which the students can be taught how to care for one another in times of sickness. There has been a nurse at the school to look after the students when they were sick, but no facilities have been provided. This has made the work very discouraging.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 17)
The students are to be given a training in those lines of work that will help them to be successful laborers for Christ. They are to be taught to be separate from the customs and practices of the world. They are to be taught how to present the truth for this time and how to work with their hands and with their head to win their daily bread, that they may go forth to teach their own people. The bread-winning part of the work is of the utmost importance. They are to be taught also to appreciate the school as a place in which they are given opportunity to obtain a training for service.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 18)
The teachers should constantly seek wisdom from on high, that they may be kept from making mistakes. They should give careful consideration to their work, that each student may be prepared for the line of service to which he is best adapted. All are to be prepared to serve faithfully in some capacity.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 19)
No laxness is to be allowed. The man who takes charge of the Huntsville school should know how to govern himself and how to govern others. The Bible teacher should be a man who can teach the students how to present the truths of the Word of God in public and how to do house-to-house work. The business affairs of the farm are to be wisely and carefully managed.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 20)
Each student is to take himself in hand and with God’s help overcome the faults that mar his character. And he is to show an earnest, unselfish spirit in the welfare of the school. If he sees a loose board in a walk or a loose paling on the fence, let him at once get a hammer and nails and make the needed repairs. The wagons and harnesses should be properly cared for and frequently examined and repaired. When harnesses and wagons are sent out in a dilapidated condition, human life is endangered.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 21)
These little things are of much more importance than many suppose in the education of students. Businessmen will notice the appearance of the wagons and harnesses and will form their opinions accordingly. And more than this, if students are allowed to go through school with slack, shiftless habits, their education will not be worth half as much as it would be if they were taught to be thorough in all they do. “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] Little things needing attention, yet left for days and weeks till they become an unsightly neglect, teach the students lessons that will cling to them for a lifetime, greatly hindering them in their work. Such an example is demoralizing, and students whose education is after this order are not needed in the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 22)
Should not our God be served most faithfully? We are called upon as teachers to rise up with firm purpose of heart and discipline ourselves with sternness and vigor to habits of order and thoroughness. All that our hands find to do is to be well done. We have been bought with a price, even the blood of the Son of God, and all that we do is to honor and glorify our Redeemer. We are to work in partnership with Christ, as verily as Christ works in partnership with the Father.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 23)
Christ is pleading for us in the presence of God, and we are to lay aside every weight, “and the sin which doth so easily beset,” in order that we may follow our Lord. [Hebrews 12:1.] All that we do, whether it be done with the hands or with the head, is to be done with exactitude. Then Christ is not ashamed to call us brethren.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 24)
The soul suffers a great loss when duties are not faithfully performed, when habits of negligence and carelessness are allowed to rule the life. Faithfulness and unselfishness are to control all that we do. When the soul is left uncleansed, when selfish aims are allowed to control, the enemy comes in, leading the mind to carry out unholy devices and to work for selfish advantage, regardless of results.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 25)
But he who makes Christ first and last and best in everything will not work for selfish purposes. Unselfishness will be revealed in every act. The peace of Christ cannot abide in the heart of a man in whose life self is the mainspring of action. Such a one may hold the theories of the truth, but unless he brings himself into harmony with the requirements of God’s Word, giving up all his ambitions and desires for the will and way of Christ, he strives without purpose; for God cannot bless him. He halts between two opinions, constantly vacillating between Christ and the world. It is like one striving for the mastery, yet cumbering himself by clinging to heavy weights.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 26)
To Brother Rogers, who is to take charge of the Huntsville school, I would say, Look to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. You will have provocations, but do not lose your patience and your self-control. Do not allow yourself to be easily provoked. I am sure that you are in the right place, and I ask you to work with an eye single to the glory of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 27)
We left Huntsville on Wednesday afternoon and reached Nashville at seven on the evening of the same day. Since our return we have been looking for places suitable for sanitarium work. Yesterday evening Edson and Emma and I rode out to see a place about five miles from Nashville. It is an old-time plantation. There are three hundred and eighty-five acres in the property. The house is a large brick one and stands in one of the most beautiful groves of trees I have ever seen. It would be an excellent place for a camp-meeting. But we are quite decided that it is not suitable for sanitarium purposes. A great many changes would have to be made in the house to adapt it to our work. Besides this, part of the land is bottom land, very low, and at certain seasons of the year is covered with water. The river runs on two sides of the property. We do not think that it would be wisdom to pay thirty thousand dollars for this place.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 28)
We are much more favorably impressed with another place at which we have been looking. This is known as the Boscobel College and in the past has been used as a girls’ school. There are two large brick buildings and ten acres of land. We are told that the place can be leased for a moderate rental. There are about fifty rooms, partially furnished, and the place is supplied with city water and is provided with a good heating apparatus and with other facilities necessary for sanitarium work.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 29)
About nine miles from Nashville, toward Edgefield Junction, Brethren Sutherland and Magan found a farm of four hundred acres for sale, which they thought might be used for school purposes.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 30)
As we looked this place over, we became deeply interested in it. The size of the farm, its location, the distance that it is from Nashville, and the moderate sum for which it could be purchased seemed to point it out as the very place needed for our school work here. The house is old, but it can be used until more suitable buildings can be erected.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 31)
Other properties were examined, but we found nothing so well suited to the work. The farm is so large that it not only affords a place for the school for the training of white teachers, but a place also for a colored sanitarium and a training school for colored students. The school for white people and the sanitarium and school for colored people can stand entirely separate, and yet the teachers can counsel together; and the forces of both will thus be strengthened.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 32)
The price of the place, including standing crops, farm implements, and over seventy head of cattle was $12,723. I felt so thoroughly convinced that it was a favorable location for the work that I advised our brethren to make the purchase.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 33)
The place has been purchased, and as soon as possible Brethren Sutherland and Magan, with a few experienced helpers, will begin school work. We feel confident that the Lord has been guiding in this matter.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 34)
The plan upon which our brethren propose to work is to select some of the best and most substantial young men and women from Berrien Springs, and other places in the North, who believe that God has called them to the work in the South, and give them a brief training as teachers. Thorough instruction will be given in Bible study, physiology, the history of our message; and special instruction will be given regarding the cultivation of the land. It is hoped that many of these students will eventually connect with schools in various places in the South. In connection with these schools there will be land that will be cultivated by teachers and students, and the proceeds from this work will be used for the support of the schools.
(19LtMs, Lt 215, 1904, 35)
Lt 217, 1904
Young, W. R. Nashville, Tennessee July 3, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 9T 28-29. + W. R. Young
Stockton, California My dear Brother,—
I have received and read your letter. I am glad to hear from you and very thankful to know you are rejoicing in the love of God. I praise the Lord. He is everything to those who believe in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 1)
I hope that your brothers are serving the Lord. Time is fast passing. The end is near. We need a preparedness to meet the difficulties of this time. There is a great deal of religious sentiment in our world and but very little real Christianity. We need now to be diligent Bible students. Men will say, “Lo, here is Christ,” and “Lo, there is Christ,” to draw people away from the real to the false. [Matthew 24:23.] The Word of God is to be our guide and counselor. Christ is the only safe leader. “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.] “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 2)
My brother, may the Lord keep you by His power and lead you and guide you. I believe He has impressed you to give of your means for the establishment of His work in Washington. A sanitarium and a school are to be established at the capital of our nation. I hope that you will be able to send the brethren there one thousand dollars. They need means very much, and now is your opportunity to help.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 3)
Here in the South there are many lines of work that need help. A Sanitarium for colored people has been started in the city of Nashville. The work is carried on in a rented building. The patronage of this institution is good. The brethren are wondering whether it would not be best to purchase the building, that they may make some needed changes and improvements.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 4)
I will send you several copies of a pamphlet giving the particulars regarding this Sanitarium. Please put these pamphlets in the hands of your friends, asking them if they will not try to interest others in the enterprise. My son Edson has carried the burden of this institution on his soul. He is very anxious for its future. Will you not make a gift to this work?
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 5)
Do not allow your means to be tied up in any speculation. The money that the Lord has entrusted to His people is now greatly needed in His cause. Will you not be our right-hand helper in trying to secure means with which to provide this little Sanitarium with the facilities that are needed for its work? The Lord will bless all who will help. O that our people in California would only realize the situation and make earnest efforts to relieve the necessities of this poverty-stricken field! We must have help. In the name of the Lord we plead for it. Will you not do what you can to collect means for the colored Sanitarium in Nashville?
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 6)
You say, my brother, that some have asked you to take one thousand dollars worth of stock in the Alaska Fishery Development Company. You say, The Secretary of the Company told me that he was to start a self-sustaining missionary station and have a church school; and that you had given your sanction to their work. Brother E. E. Cooke of Stockton told me that you told Brother F. H. Watson that the Lord had called him, Brother Watson, to that work, and that he must not let any one turn him away from it.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 7)
Now, my brother, this is a surprising statement. Your letter contains the first intimation I have had that I am supposed to have favored any enterprise such as a fish cannery being started by our people. This is entirely new to me. My helpers remind me that at the camp-meeting held in Oakland in 1901, Brother Watson talked with me about his going to Alaska as a self-supporting missionary, saying that he could take his tools, and work in the shops, and at the same time preach the truth. I told him I thought it would be right for him to do this.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 8)
But I could not encourage my brethren to enter into the fish canning business or any similar business. I did not tell Brother Watson that God had given him that work to do, and that he must not let any one turn him away from it. There has been some misunderstanding regarding the meaning of my words of advice.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 9)
There is a most earnest work to be done now, just now, to prepare a people to stand in the day of the Lord. In this work we are to use all our means and all our influence. But I have a painful sense that money which is needed in the Lord’s cause is being drawn from our people for various worldly enterprises. Example after example has come to our notice where men have persuaded our people to invest their means in some such enterprise as the one you mention in your letter, with encouragement that the profits would be used in missionary work, but in the end the enterprises have failed.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 10)
At this time money is greatly needed in the work of the Lord. God calls upon His people to place their means in the bank of heaven, beside His throne. Do not allow your means to be buried up now, when there is so much need of it in the Lord’s work. And if you know of others who have money to spare, ask them to place it in the bank of heaven. The Lord will bless them in helping to get the truth before those who know it not.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 11)
The night before last a very impressive scene passed before me. I saw an immense ball of fire fall into the midst of some beautiful mansions, causing their instant destruction. I heard some say, “We knew that the judgments of God were coming upon the earth, but we did not know they would come so soon.” Others said, “You knew! Why then did you not tell us? We did not know.” On every side I heard such words spoken.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 12)
In great distress I awoke. I went to sleep again, and I seemed to be in a great gathering. One of authority was addressing the company before whom was spread out a map of the world. He said that the map pictured God’s vineyard, which was to be cultivated. As light from heaven shone upon any soul, that soul was to reflect the light to others. Lights were to be kindled in many places, and from these lights still other lights were to be kindled. The words were repeated:
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 13)
“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 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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 14)
Then I saw jets of light shining from cities and villages, and from the high places and the low places of the earth. God’s Word was obeyed, and as a result there were memorials for Him in every city and village. His truth was proclaimed throughout the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 15)
Then this map was removed, and another put in its place. There were streaks of light from heaven in a few places. The rest of the world was as dark as midnight, with only a glimmer of light here and there. Our instructor said, “this darkness is the result of men’s following their own counsel. They have cherished hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil. They have made questioning and faultfinding and accusing the chief business of their lives. Their hearts are not right with God. They have hidden their light under a bushel. In the Southern field, where there should be bright beams of light, there is much darkness.”
(19LtMs, Lt 217, 1904, 16)
Lt 219, 1904
NA/Sister Nashville, Tennessee July 6, 1904 Previously unpublished. My dear sister,—
I am up early this morning, as I always am, and before any one is stirring, I will write you a few lines. For several weeks I have been with my son Edson in Tennessee. We end our visit today. Yesterday we were in a council meeting in which we tried to lay plans for the advancement of the work in this needy field, and especially for the advancement of the Huntsville school. I bore a very plain testimony, saying that the cities of the South must be worked.
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 1)
I received your letter and the ten dollars which you sent, and I thank you. I shall appropriate your gift for the colored Sanitarium that is in operation here in Nashville. Every dollar is a help.
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 2)
I would be much pleased to see you and talk with you. But this can not be. How thankful I am that we can all hold communion with the Lord Jesus every moment. He will give us just the help that He sees we need. We will receive comfort and hope and courage from His divine presence. How precious is the thought that He, the Majesty of heaven, the Prince of life, laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might place human beings on vantage ground. Through His grace men and women may become partakers of the divine nature. Thus they may be sanctified, purified, ennobled. Men and women may be one with Christ as He is one with the Father. What possibilities, what privileges are ours!
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 3)
May the Lord Jesus strengthen you, and may you be His channel of light. May you receive richly of His grace, that you may impart to those who need words of comfort and encouragement.
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 4)
In closing, I thank you again for your gift. I know that the workers at the Sanitarium will greatly appreciate it. I will send you a copy of The Southern Missionary, which will give you a description of this Sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 5)
Is there any one of my books that you have not, that you would like? If there is, I would be glad to send it to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 6)
The sun is shining in at my window. Light, light, how good it is! How thankful I am that we can have Christ as our light.
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 7)
Your sister in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 219, 1904, 8)
Lt 220, 1904
NA/Sister Nashville, Tennessee July 6, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister,—
I have been in the South for five weeks, going from place to place, viewing the work, and seeing the needs of the field. We are making special efforts to help forward the work among the colored people.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 1)
Schools should be opened in many places, in which colored people can be educated to work for their own race. Mission schools must be opened, in which old and young may be taught.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 2)
Treatment rooms and small sanitariums must be established; for the people must be taught how to live healthfully. There is much suffering amongst them.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 3)
I present to you this portion of the Master’s vineyard which has been neglected, but which must be worked. I make an earnest appeal to all who love the Lord Jesus to do all they can to help at this important time.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 4)
The Lord instructed me that much could be accomplished by placing self-denial boxes in the homes of our people. I acted upon the light given. I am glad to learn that the love of Christ has moved many hearts and that so large a number have responded. My heart says, Thank God for the good results that have been seen. The money sent in from these self-denial boxes helps in the accomplishment of the great and good work that we desire to see done.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 5)
Many should become interested in the work of placing these boxes in homes. Ask old and young to aid the work for the colored people by placing these boxes in every home possible. A blessing will surely follow the gifts of self-denial thus brought to the Master.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 6)
Tell the little ones about the work that is being done for the colored children who have been so greatly neglected. Tell them that the money they put into the self-denial boxes is used in giving colored children some of the blessings white children are so abundantly provided with. Schools are started in which the colored children are told of the love of Jesus.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 7)
Invite those not of our faith to do all they can for the advancement of this work. The Lord has placed the responsibility upon them. He expects them to act their part. As they have received, so they are to impart.
(19LtMs, Lt 220, 1904, 8)
Lt 220a, 1904
NA/Brother Nashville, Tennessee July 6, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother,—
I have been in the South for five weeks, going from place to place, viewing the work, and seeing the needs of the field. We are making special efforts to help forward the work among the colored people.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 1)
Schools should be opened in many places, in which colored people can be educated to work for their own race. Mission schools must be opened, in which old and young may be taught.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 2)
Treatment rooms and small sanitariums must be established; for the people must be taught how to live healthfully. There is much suffering among them.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 3)
I present to you this portion of the Master’s vineyard which has been neglected, but which must be worked. I make an earnest appeal to all who love the Lord Jesus to do all they can to help at this important time.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 4)
The Lord instructed me that much could be accomplished by placing self-denial boxes in the homes of our people. I acted upon the light given. I am glad to learn that the love of Christ has moved many hearts and that so large a number have responded. My heart says, Thank God for the good results that have been seen. The money sent in from these self-denial boxes helps in the accomplishment of the great and good work that we desire to see done.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 5)
Many should become interested in the work of placing these boxes in homes. Ask old and young to aid the work for the colored people by placing these boxes in every home possible. A blessing will surely follow the gifts of self-denial thus brought to the Master.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 6)
Tell the little ones about the work that is being done for the colored children who have been so greatly neglected. Tell them that the money they put into the self-denial boxes is used in giving colored children some of the blessings white children are so abundantly provided with. Schools are started in which the colored children are told of the love of Jesus.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 7)
Invite those not of our faith to do all they can for the advancement of this work. The Lord has placed the responsibility upon them. He expects them to act their part. As they have received, so they are to impart.
(19LtMs, Lt 220a, 1904, 8)
Lt 221, 1904
Foote, Frank Nashville, Tennessee July 6, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 469; 2MR 69. Dear Brother Frank Foote,—
For years we have been deeply interested in the work for the colored people of the South, which has been so long neglected. As we have travelled from place to place, we have seen the poverty-stricken condition of this field. I have visited the school at Huntsville, Alabama, and have seen the land that was provided for the school by the General Conference. A school has been conducted there for years. Although the land is good, for lack of funds the buildings have not been kept up and are in great need of repair. Some new buildings must be erected, one of which should be a small sanitarium. In connection with the school and sanitarium a useful line of educational work is to be carried on in training students for medical missionary work. Many can be fitted to give treatment to their own race.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 1)
There is little at the Huntsville school to make the place attractive. Its facilities for doing the work it should do are very meager. We desire to do a strong work in preparing the colored people of the South to do the work that must be done for their own race.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 2)
Brother Rogers has been chosen to act as business manager and principal of the Huntsville school. For years he has labored in school work for the colored people in Mississippi, under the direction of the Southern Missionary Society. He is a teacher of experience and is a capable manager. Associated with him will be a faculty competent to carry forward all branches of instruction, both in school lines and in industrial training. The efficiency of the school will be much improved this year.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 3)
The Huntsville school is in great need of immediate financial help so that the proper improvements may be made before the opening of the fall term of school. Then there is the great need of the mission school work throughout the whole South. Hundreds of these mission schools must be established, for there is no method of giving the truth to these people so effectual and economical as these small schools. This line of work has been especially presented before me. But the work is almost at a standstill for the lack of money to provide facilities and pay the wages of the teachers.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 4)
If the means in the hands of our brethren could be now brought into the work, we would feel very thankful, and the work could go forward as God designs it should. I now ask you, Can you not assist now in this very important and needy work? Can you not make donations to the work in the great Southern field, and can you not loan money to advance the interests of this work? I ask, Are you not willing to put your money into a work that will give an interest which will double the investment? I call upon you, my brother, to help with the means which the Lord has placed in your hands as His steward, a work that must be done at this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 5)
Of late, as the needs of this field have been pressed upon me, I have been able to sleep but little. Medical missionary work must be carried on among this people, who must be given a training in nursing, cooking, and in other important lines of work. There are those among them who must be trained to labor as teachers, Bible workers, and canvassers.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 6)
Brethren Sutherland and Magan, W. C. White, J. E. White, and others have been searching for proper locations for school farms. A most desirable tract of land has been purchased near Nashville, and on this place a school will be established in which teachers will be trained to conduct mission schools for colored people. This training school will be opened this fall. An industrial school for colored students should, as soon as possible, be started near Nashville.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 7)
We know that there is money among Seventh-day Adventists, and we hope the Lord will inspire hearts to help us in preparing buildings and facilities for important school work in this very needy field.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 8)
The truth must go forth to all the world. Will you help us now; for little can be done until means shall come to be used in carrying forward the work in this neglected part of the Lord’s vineyard. May the Lord move upon your heart to put your means into circulation in His work, where it will be used by Him in the saving of many souls.
(19LtMs, Lt 221, 1904, 9)
Lt 223, 1904
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W.; Hare, G. A. Huntsville, Alabama June 15, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 4BC 1184. Dear Brethren Daniells and Prescott and Dr. Hare,—
During the past night scenes that clearly outline our present position were vividly presented to me. Scenes that had passed before me while we were on the steamer “Morning Star” were again presented. These representations, with the instruction given me, make clear to my mind the experience of the Berrien Springs meeting and of the councils which followed in Battle Creek. The longsuffering patience of God and His wonderful forbearance were manifested during the Berrien Springs meeting. Once more the Lord held forth to men, who have been linking up with worldlings and working with unbelieving lawyers, the words of love and mercy that He has been speaking for years.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 1)
The meeting at Berrien Springs was an occasion of great perplexity to many of our brethren. It was a time of heavy burden and taxing labor for me. The Lord strengthened me and gave me power to stand before the people and speak words of counsel and encouragement. A special message of hope and courage was given for the men at Battle Creek. Oh, why did they not lay hold of it? There was opportunity for them to be placed upon vantage ground. Why did they not appreciate this opportunity? Greater evidence will not be given them that God is calling for a change of attitude. Some good confessions were made, but some chose to justify themselves and demanded concessions from their brethren.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 2)
The Battle Creek Council
I have been given no encouragement to go to Battle Creek. I was shown that efforts would be made to call our leading men to Battle Creek to investigate the Scriptures and discuss points of difference. I was then instructed that the students who had been called to Battle Creek, and the ministers held there, are in a dangerous atmosphere. The proposition to continue the same relations to Battle Creek, which again and again have been pointed out as detrimental, and the proposal to do that which should not be done are ill-timed and dangerous. The result of these relations is unbelief in the movings of the providence of God. The testimonies that the Lord has given to establish the faith of His people in His Word have been made of no effect.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 3)
Men have sneered at the thought that it was God’s judgments which had come upon the institutions in Battle Creek. Notwithstanding this, God’s hand of mercy was not withdrawn from the institutions and the men in positions of responsibility. He still strove to save those who have been binding themselves up with worldlings.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 4)
God sent His judgments on the institutions at Battle Creek for the purpose of scattering the many people congregated in that place. Those who counterwork the work of God, those who disregard His Word must beware lest they bring upon themselves a still more severe retribution. The Lord’s long forbearance has been interpreted by some to mean that there was no special need for repentance. “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” [Ecclesiastes 8:11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 5)
I have been instructed to say that altogether too long have our ministers been answering the calls to come to Battle Creek to attend counsels. That which has been done by calling men away from their work to attend such councils in Battle Creek for the purpose of bringing about a better understanding has failed to meet our expectations, because leading men in the medical work were determined to carry out their cherished plans; and at the close of each council, these men have made representations that they had gained decided victories.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 6)
It has been shown me that the effort made at Berrien Springs to save the leading men in the medical work was interpreted by them as a victory over their brethren and has been used to strengthen their hands in the carrying out of their purposes. The gracious invitation was given, “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.] But the invitation was not accepted. The Lord says, “Why will you not come to Me and find rest? Why do you refuse My outstretched, helping hand?”
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 7)
After speaking for the last time at Berrien Springs, a scene passed before me, showing me that some would construe what had been done at that meeting to save them as special victories for their side. I saw evil angels working with their deceptive sophistries on men’s minds, so that they might work on other minds to deceive if possible the very elect. I was filled with an intense desire that those who were deceived might come to the light.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 8)
Our brethren are not to be called to Battle Creek to hold a council for the examination of doctrines, while the men who profess to know the truth remain surrounded by a cloud of unbelief. Our ministers, instead of turning their faces toward a council at Battle Creek, should be considering the thousands of people in the cities of America who should be hearing the message of warning. These cities have been strangely neglected, and the judgment will reveal the result. By the large investments of means in the Battle Creek Sanitarium, many have been robbed of the help that God designed them to have.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 9)
This is not a time to call from the field our leading workers to discuss and adjust points of difference between the medical workers and the workers in other lines. The remedy for many of these difficulties will be found in heeding the messages of counsel published in recent testimonies.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 10)
The present is a time for aggressive work in the field. To our brethren in Washington the word is given, “Arise and build.” [Nehemiah 2:20.] To our people in all the Conferences the word is, “Strengthen the hands of the builders.”
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 11)
Nehemiah’s Experience
Let those who are asked to leave their work to engage in a council at Battle Creek read the sixth chapter of Nehemiah:
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 12)
“It came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein, (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates:) that Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down; why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you. Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 13)
“Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand; wherein it was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel; for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words. And thou hast appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, There is a king in Judah; and now it shall be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 14)
“Then sent I unto him, saying, There are no such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart.” [Verses 1-8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 15)
History is being repeated. Work of this nature has been done and will be done again.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 16)
Nehemiah continues: “For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands. Afterward I came unto the house of Shemaiah, ... who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple, for they will come to slay thee, yea, in the night they will come to slay thee. And I said, Should such a man as I flee? And who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in. And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me; for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. Therefore was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so and sin, that they might have matter for an evil report, that they might reproach me.” [Verses 9-13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 17)
A work similar to this will be done, and Seventh-day Adventists will have to meet it.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 18)
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on 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 withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked, and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” [Ephesians 6:10-17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 19)
The Work in Washington
The Lord calls upon His people in every state in America to come up to His help in the establishment of His work in Washington. Those who have this work in hand are to show no lack of interest in it. And our people are to remember that for the present, the work in Washington is to be our first interest. There are many lines of work to be carried forward in different places. But our first interest just now is our work at the capital of our nation.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 20)
We are to center our minds for the present on the work that needs to be done at Washington. Daily our petitions are to ascend to heaven for the success of this work, that it may move forward rapidly. The Lord of hosts gave special directions that the publishing work done at Battle Creek should be transferred to Washington. The directions were so plain that we could see there must be no delay. And since we have moved forward in obedience to this word, we have had evidence that the Lord has prepared the way for the establishment of important interests at Washington. Thus far He has helped us in a way that leaves no room for any one to doubt or question.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 21)
The work in Washington is to advance in straight lines, without delay or hindrance. Let it not be kept back for lack of means. The workers in Washington will advance with steadfast courage just as fast as the Lord’s people will furnish them with means. Let every church in every place act its part cheerfully and willingly.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 22)
Proving the Lord
We read in Malachi: “Behold, I will send My messenger, and he shall prepare the way before Me; and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in; behold, He shall come, saith the Lord of hosts. But who may abide the day of His coming? and who shall stand when He appeareth; for He is like a refiner’s fire, and like the fuller’s soap. And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the Lord, as in the days of old, and as in former years. And I will come unto you in judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not Me, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Malachi 3:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 23)
The evils mentioned here are to find no place in any of our institutions. God has always reproved anything approaching to unfair dealing in any line of His work. His work is to be established in equity and righteousness. “From the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same,” He declares, “My name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto My name, and a pure offering; for My name shall be great among the heathen.” [Malachi 1:11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 24)
The work that shall be carried forward in our institutions is to bear the precious fragrance spoken of in His Word. Those not of our faith are to be given clear evidence that in the work done by Seventh-day Adventists there is not a trace of dishonesty. “Ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that My covenant might be with Levi, saith the Lord of hosts. My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him for the fear wherewith he feared Me, and was afraid before My name. The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips; he walked with Me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity. For the priests’ lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth; for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts.” [Malachi 2:4-7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 25)
“Will a man rob God? yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed Thee? in tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed Me, even this whole nation.” [Malachi 3:8, 9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 26)
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed; for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Verses 10-12.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 27)
When those who have had great light will humble their hearts before the Lord, confessing their sins, these gracious promises will be fulfilled. But there are those who need to learn that God will not serve with the sins of those who depart from truth and righteousness.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 28)
“Your words have been stout against Me, saith the Lord. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against Thee? Ye have said, It is vain to serve God; and what profit is it that we have kept His ordinances, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts. And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work righteousness are delivered; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.” [Verses 13-15.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 29)
There are those who have cherished these very sentiments. But now another side is presented. “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another; and the Lord harkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name. And they shall be Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels, and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. Then will [ye] return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.” [Verses 16-18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 30)
The closing words of this Scripture outline the experience that the people of God are yet to have. We have a wonderful future before us as a people. The promises of the third chapter of Malachi will be verified to the letter. The Lord’s people are to be channels through which His blessings are to flow for the upbuilding of the special work to be done in Washington. We call upon those who love God and fear His name to do zealously and unselfishly the work that He places before them.
(19LtMs, Lt 223, 1904, 31)
Lt 225, 1904
White, J. E. St. Helena, California January 29, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Son Edson,—
I received and read your letter this morning and will respond at once so that my reply may go out in this afternoon’s mail. I can not see any inconsistency in your doing all you can to help Brother Palmer or in his having a chance to help you where he can do a work that will be for his good and your good also. Before he connected with the work in the Southern field, I was instructed that when he united with worldly men in business, he received their spirit, and that through his association with them, the enemy obtained entrance to his mind. They would present plans that allured him, step by step, into a wrong course, and he seemed to be unable to brace himself to resist these plans. I was instructed that should he ever succeed in worldly business, it would be at the loss of his soul. There are in his character traits that vibrate quickly to any scheme to obtain money. It is because the Lord loves him and would save his soul that he has been afflicted, disappointed, and placed on the losing side. If he were on the gaining side, delusion after delusion would come in, and he would be entirely led away.
(19LtMs, Lt 225, 1904, 1)
I hope that Brother Palmer will see that it is possible for him to keep fast hold of his faith in the precious Saviour. When, like Peter, he begins to sink, if he cries out, “Lord, save, or I perish,” the hand of Christ will be stretched out to save. [Matthew 14:30, 31.] When he walks humbly before God, inquiring at every step, “Is this the way of the Lord?” and keeping his eyes fastened on Jesus, he will most assuredly find his hand grasped by the hand of Christ, and he will be strengthened to walk beside the Saviour.
(19LtMs, Lt 225, 1904, 2)
I opened the Bible to search for some passage and read these words: “Praise ye the Lord; for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is comely. The Lord doth build up Jerusalem: He gathereth together the outcasts of Israel. He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” [Psalm 147:1-3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 225, 1904, 3)
Those who have no connection with God cannot be depended on. This has been your experience and Brother Palmer’s experience. But those who realize their weakness, and put their trust in the Lord, have a friend that sticketh closer than a brother, One who will never disappoint them. All the resources of heaven are at the disposal of such ones. When God’s children give themselves unreservedly to Him, He lifts them up and makes for them a way of escape. When those who have made mistakes separate themselves from worldly associations, the Lord will be their helper.
(19LtMs, Lt 225, 1904, 4)
“He telleth the number of the stars; He calleth them all by their names. Great is our Lord, and of great power; His understanding is infinite. The Lord lifteth up the meek; He casteth the wicked down to the ground. Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God; who covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth rain for the earth, who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains. He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry. He delighteth not in the strength of the horse; He taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy. Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem; praise thy God, O Zion.” [Verses 4-12.]
(19LtMs, Lt 225, 1904, 5)
Lt 227, 1904
Huntsville School Board and Faculty Nashville, Tennessee July 6, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in PCO 98-99. To the members of the Huntsville School Board and Faculty Dear Brethren,—
I have not time today to write out in full the instruction that I have given to you while the Board was in session; but this will all be written out soon, in order that you may have it.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 1)
Regarding the faculty, I would say: The Lord has pointed out to us the advisability of making changes. Our dear Brother Nicola has occupied a leading position in the school for a long time; and yet the institution has not been built up as it should have been. To consent to his remaining longer would not be wise; for he would certainly be tempted to become dissatisfied, and this would lead others to feel dissatisfied. A disorganized state of things would result.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 2)
I am instructed by the Lord to say that Brother Melendy, upon whom has rested the responsibility of managing the various business interests of the school, would, if disconnected from Brother Nicola, have an opportunity to prove himself. The time has come when new plans must be put into operation. Intelligent, capable men are to co-operate in making decided changes in the order of things. And if Brother Melendy feels free to unite as a Christian laborer with Brother Rogers in making these decided changes; if with much prayer and in faith, with all humility of mind, they work in Christlike harmony with each other, the Lord will work with them and give them wisdom and grace to improve in excellency of character.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 3)
He who would become master of the situation in any line of work, and especially as the head of a training-school, must become intelligent, as a wise man, and by a Christian example in word and deed reveal to his students that he obeys the words of Christ and that his character has been transformed in accordance with the divine. In many things there is great room for improvement. “Come unto Me,” the Saviour pleads, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 4)
Men often establish wrong habits that need to be exchanged for right ones. Those who fail to realize their high and holy privilege of conforming to the divine standard, and neglect to remedy these defects of character, are not to be chosen or retained as educators of the youth. The example of every such a one would prove detrimental to the best interests of the school. Such men are often endowed with many excellent qualities; but their usefulness is impaired because of their failure to discern their defects and the danger of unconsciously stamping these defects upon other characters. Sad it is that some men retain these defects throughout the entire period of life. By earnest, prayerful study, by counseling with their brethren and putting forth untiring effort, they may, if they choose, remedy these defects.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 5)
The Lord discerns that a change for the better must be made in the Huntsville School. Every teacher, whether a man or a woman, should be an apt scholar, capable of grasping advanced ideas and putting them into practice. The teacher is ever to be a learner. By his example of industry in seeking to advance in learning, and by his untiring efforts to develop a Christian character, he is constantly to strive to lead his students to higher attainments.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 6)
Educators in our schools are themselves always to be learning of the Great Teacher, who is seeking to draw them unto Himself, that they may become complete in Him, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 7)
To Brother Melendy I wish to say: If you choose to be kind, courteous, and respectful to the man who has been appointed to come into the Huntsville School and stand at the head, there to use his capabilities in an effort to help the students to advance; if you choose to be a kind, brotherly companion to the head of the school, and unite with him heartily in the work of making improvements in every line of the school work, the Lord will be pleased. Through an unsanctified course, you would work in opposition to him and make it very hard for him. But I know you can unite with Brother Rogers, if you will wear the yoke of Christ and become a learner in the heavenly school. My heart’s desire is that you should do this. It is the wisest course for you to pursue.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 8)
On the other hand, if you should remain, and feel that it is your privilege to criticize, and thus unconsciously imbue the students with disaffection, the results would be sad. Rather than remain to do this, it would be far better for you to leave. But, my dear Brother, it would be not wise for you to cherish any defects of character. Through the strength that Christ will impart, it is your privilege to grow in grace and wisdom and become a strong laborer in His cause.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 9)
May the Lord strengthen you, my brethren. May all who have any part to act in connection with the Huntsville School stand in their lot and place. Now is your time of test and trial. Act like God-fearing men; stand in the position that the Lord would have you occupy; do right because it is right.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 10)
I have written these lines because the cause is now in great need of every hand that will work valiantly for the Master. We need faithful men who are continually growing in grace and in a knowledge of the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 11)
May the Lord bless you, my brethren.
(19LtMs, Lt 227, 1904, 12)
Lt 228, 1904
Brother Refiled as Lt 220a, 1904.
Lt 229, 1904
White, J. E. “Carroll Avenue,” Takoma Park, Maryland July 8, 1904 Previously unpublished. My dear son Edson,—
I want you to be very careful not to take too many responsibilities upon yourself. The Lord desires you to lay out the work that you can safely do, and follow this plan, so that you will not be pressed beyond measure. It is your privilege to take time to seek counsel of God. Place yourself trustfully in His hands. You may devise plans which, it may seem to you, must bring relief, but He whose we are and who loves us with an everlasting love may see that the plans you have laid out would not fulfil your expectations in bringing relief. We are not our own; we have been bought with a price. Waiting, watching, and praying will teach us precious lessons which we need to learn day by day.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 1)
My heart is drawn out to you both in tender love. You are precious to me. I know that I need not urge you to do all that you possibly can; you have already overstrained nerve and muscle to the positive peril of mind and body. You have generous impulses, and you grieve because you cannot see accomplished that which you desire. Remember, Edson, that we shall do our best to help you. Keep calm through all the disappointments that may come. Do not allow reverses to discourage you. Do your best, and thank God for His love and mercy.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 2)
God holds us responsible to take the very best care of our bodies, because we can offer Him more effective service when we are in health. With the simplicity of little children we are to heed 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.] The Lord is our efficiency. Learn, dear children, to thank and praise Him more. Keep on praying, believing, trusting. When you give yourself more rest, you will be able to learn better the lessons that Christ desires you to learn.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 3)
The deeper our appreciation of the mercy and love of God, the greater will be our peace and joy in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 4)
Do not think that I have changed my mind in regard to its being best for you to get out into the country. A change of scene may be best for you. And your mind should certainly be relieved of the pressure resting on it. Be of good courage. Do your best, and then trust in the Lord, waiting for Him to bring His will to pass.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 5)
Do not keep feeling regretful because you have not been able to accomplish all that you hoped to, because some of your brethren occupied a negative position when they should have occupied an affirmative one. God wants us to cease worryiny and move out in accordance with the best light we have. The Lord will work for us if we do our best, although His way of working may not be the way we had outlined.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 6)
I have received an excellent letter from Elder I. H. Evans, written from Canada, where he was attending a camp-meeting. I will send you a copy of the letter, that you may enjoy it with us. I can but praise the Lord that He stands to us as a kind, heavenly Father, and also as the General of the armies of heaven. He expects us to serve Him with an eye single to His glory. Let each do his best, walking humbly in the footsteps of Christ. God will bless every one who will improve faithfully the talents lent him. Christ has a right to expect faithfulness and diligence from those whom He has appointed to act as His stewards.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 7)
We shall not be disappointed if we put our trust in God. Now is our opportunity to prepare for the home that Christ has gone to prepare for those who love Him. God’s working agencies are made up of vessels large and small. The Lord can use the smaller vessels as well as the larger. If they will put their trust in Him, He will put them in a place that they can fill.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 8)
I praise God for His goodness and loving kindness, and for His continual keeping power. We are kept by the power of God through faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 9)
May God bless and strengthen you, my son, and help you to work in faith and hope. Do not allow the enemy to oppress you. The love of Christ in the heart will be your comfort. Be of good courage. If the way were made all clear, and you could work as you desire to, your exertions might be altogether too severe for your strength, this hot weather. The way will open. Praise the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 229, 1904, 10)
Lt 231, 1904
Crawford, M. Takoma Park, Maryland July 11, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5Bio 379. Mrs. M. Crawford
52 Thirty-third Place
Chicago My dear friend,—
I have just returned to this place from a trip to the South. We were away for about six weeks, and during that time we visited Nashville, Graysville, and Huntsville.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 1)
Our visit to Graysville was a very pleasant one. We were there only two days. On Sabbath I spoke to our people. The church was crowded. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me, and I was given a plain testimony to bear. My heart was filled with thanksgiving and praise and rejoicing. Two or three ministers from outside churches were present.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 2)
On Sunday comfortable carriages were provided, and we were driven up the mountainside to the Sanitarium that has been built there. We were taken still further up the mountain to where the water that supplies the Sanitarium springs up from among the rocks, pure and clear and cold. This spring gives an abundant supply of water the year round. Below the building there is another large spring. A year or two ago, when the ground for the building had just been purchased, word was sent me in regard to this lower spring, asking whether it would not be best to purchase it also for the use of the Sanitarium. I did not wait to write a letter, but sent a telegram, advising that by all means the spring be purchased.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 3)
The institution is well planned, and the physicians and nurses are working disinterestedly and earnestly to bring the work on the building to completion. I wished to say to the physician, “We have a great work to do. It pleases me to see the good work you do while handling the axe and hammer and plane. You seem to be master of the situation.” The physician’s face expressed anxiety and showed a burden of thought, and I did wish to say, “This is the work that Christ did in His youth. And through it all, He did not speak an impatient word, not even when He was misunderstood. He always spoke pleasantly, and when He was blamed for being so particular about His work, He answered by words of song from the Psalms; and those who had been scolding Him found themselves uniting with Him in singing: ‘O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good; because His mercy endureth forever. Let Israel now say that His mercy endureth forever.... Let them now that fear the Lord say that His mercy endureth forever.”“Blessed are they which keep His testimonies, and that seek Him with the whole heart.’” [Psalm 118:1, 2, 4; 119:2.]
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 4)
I should have been pleased to speak words of encouragement to the physician’s wife and to her sister. I should like to have said to them, “Be sure, my dear friends, ever to walk with Christ. Learn of Me, said the divine 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.” [See Matthew 11:29, 30.]
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 5)
On the second floor we found the nurses busy at work. I hope they all realized that their faithfulness is fully appreciated by One who knows. In looking to their Saviour, they will find peace and joy. We are to unite our influence in making the earth radiant and glorious. Entire consecration is essential, and the union of all is needed, in order that the work of God may advance. No one is to exalt self and disparage others.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 6)
I longed to say to all the workers, “Henceforth you are Christ’s servants. No longer are you to live to yourselves, but for Him who died for you, and rose again. Your lives are to be hid with Christ in God, that when He who is your life shall appear, you may appear with Him in glory.”
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 7)
We climbed to the third story and looked off over the treetops across the valley. We greatly enjoyed the view.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 8)
We were much pleased with what we saw of the Graysville Sanitarium. The workers seemed to be doing their best. Angels of God are co-operating with these busy workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 9)
My dear sister, we have been acquainted for a long time. I surely hope that our friendship will continue through the eternal ages. Should I pass through Chicago before I return to California, I would be very much pleased to see you and talk with you. I cannot now say when we shall leave Washington. The brethren here desire Willie’s counsel in establishing the sanitarium and the school. He has had a wide experience in building up interests in new places.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 10)
There are quite a number of young men here at work on the ground. Dr. Hare is here, ready to begin work when the buildings are up.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 11)
Sister Marian, I have a request to make. Can you lend me one thousand dollars? I need money to help me in getting out my books. I have one book, The Ministry of Healing, which is almost ready for the printer. It is my desire that the proceeds from the sale of this book shall be used for our sanitariums. I need means to assist in bringing out this book. If you will lend me one thousand dollars, I will give you my note and will pay you interest on the money.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 12)
I leave this with you. If you can help me at this time, I shall be very thankful.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 13)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 231, 1904, 14)
Lt 233, 1904
Palmer, Brother and Sister [E. R.] Takoma Park, Maryland July 8, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 215-218. + Dear Brother and Sister Palmer,—
Last Wednesday, July 6, W. C. White, Sara, Maggie, and I left Nashville for Washington. Just before we left, a meeting of the Southern Union Conference Committee was held in Nashville for the purpose of devising some means of helping the Huntsville school. Those who have had charge of the school have not felt the importance of putting brain, bone, and muscle to the tax in an effort to make the school a success. The students who attend this school are to be given an education that will fit them to work for the Master. They are to be given more than book knowledge. Should they be given book knowledge merely, their education would be imperfect.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 1)
There should be a special school for the younger ones. Fathers and mothers are to be placed on the land, and parents as well as children are to be given an education. Promising families are to be brought in and settled upon a piece of ground as large as shall be deemed best. In connection with the school there should be an experienced carpenter who can teach the fathers and their boys how to build their homes, which are to be neat, convenient, inexpensive buildings. The mothers should be taught how to prepare food hygienically and how to care for the sick.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 2)
While I was in the South, I visited Huntsville. The Southern Union Conference Committee held a meeting while we were there, and I had much to read to the brethren assembled. A heavy burden rested upon me while I was at this place. I knew that there must be a change in the faculty—that more thorough men must take up the work. When a man has occupied the same position for years, and yet the school, in its inside and outside working, is still far from what it ought to be, a change must be made. A man must be put in charge who knows how to govern himself and others and how to make the school show constant improvement.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 3)
Teachers and students are to co-operate in doing their best. The constant effort of the teacher should be to make the students see the importance of constantly rising higher and still higher. Careful attention is to be given to the little things. Nothing in the house or about the premises is to be allowed to present a slack, dilapidated appearance. The horses are to be carefully stabled, and everything about the barn and stable is to be kept neat and clean.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 4)
The leading, controlling influence in the school must be faithfulness in that which is least. Thus the students will be prepared to be faithful in greater things.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 5)
This is all that I can write now on this matter. But you know how hard it is for one who has not been trained to be faithful in little things, to be faithful in larger trusts. And when one standing at the head of a school allows things to go at loose ends, his example has an influence on all around him. He should not be allowed to continue to sow the seeds of neglect and carelessness.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 6)
Ever since going to the Berrien Springs meetings, my work has been continuous and taxing. While there I saw that which we shall have to meet in the future. The only way in which we can advance in our work is in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Book that contains the will of God concerning us is in our hands. A blessed unity will be enjoyed by those who are indeed children of God. They will not, by their words and acts, lead any one to doubt in regard to the distinct personality of God, or in regard to the sanctuary and its ministry.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 7)
We all need to keep the subject of the sanctuary in mind. God forbid that the clatter of words coming from human lips should lessen the belief of our people in the truth that there is a sanctuary in heaven, and that a pattern of this sanctuary was once built on this earth. God desires His people to become familiar with this pattern, keeping ever before their minds the heavenly sanctuary, where God is all and in all. We must keep our minds braced by prayer and a study of God’s Word, that we may grasp these truths.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 8)
I was much pleased, Brother Palmer, to hear that water had been found on the sanitarium land. I have always had a very strong impression that water could be found there. When I saw the place, I said, If I ever have a chance, the matter shall be tested and proved, even if water has to be sought for in several places. I thank the Lord that He does reward persevering effort. Then pray, and believe that there is something for each one to do.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 9)
You speak of Brother Henry Kellogg’s having a share in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium the same as some others of us have. I have longed to propose this, but suppose that he had invested his money elsewhere. In all my connection with Brother Kellogg, I have ever found him kind, sympathetic, and tenderhearted. I should be much pleased to have him unite with us in this interest. I have the fullest confidence in him as being a wise counsellor and adviser. I never found him putting his foot on the brakes through fear that advancement would require means. May the Lord bless him, is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 10)
We must push forward as fast as we possibly can with sanitarium work in Southern California. I am sure that a sanitarium should be established near Los Angeles. This work has been delayed for want of proper management, and yet men have felt capable of managing. They have been unwilling to blend with others in the work. I hope that now we shall be able to make more advancement. But we shall be obliged to work on without the men who have not seen and improved their opportunities.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 11)
We shall have success if we move forward in faith, determined to do the work of God intelligently. We must not allow ourselves to be hindered by men who love to stand on the negative side, showing very little faith. God’s missionary work is to be carried forward by men of much faith and is steadily to grow in force and efficiency.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 12)
May the Lord strengthen you, and bless you with health, is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 233, 1904, 13)
Lt 235, 1904
Burden, J. A. Takoma Park, Maryland July 15, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 48. Dear Brother Burden,—
Last night I was unable to sleep past twelve o’clock. I was given an important message to bear. I have been writing out the instruction that was given me and will send you a copy of this when it is ready. I shall no longer hold my peace. I am bidden to cry aloud, and spare not. I have tried in every way to bring about the needed reformation and save the souls of those who are following a wrong course. But I cannot go on as I have been going. When every effort has been made to save their souls, and yet all is in vain, we must cry aloud and spare not, lest our silence be interpreted to mean consent. The time has come when each one must stand in his lot and place, prepared to call sin, sin, and righteousness, righteousness.
(19LtMs, Lt 235, 1904, 1)
I am very grateful to my heavenly Father that you have secured a building near Los Angeles for sanitarium work. Your description of the building shows the truth of the testimonies I have borne—that buildings suitable for our work will be offered to us at a low price. We must make earnest efforts to improve the opportunities that God sends us, that His work may advance as rapidly as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 235, 1904, 2)
If it is at all consistent with our work, we shall attend the Los Angeles camp-meeting. At present I am not at all strong. But I am praying to the Lord to strengthen me.
(19LtMs, Lt 235, 1904, 3)
For several months before I left California, I was engaged in work that was terribly wearing. At last my strength gave way, and for two or three weeks I wrote hardly anything. I feared that my brain power was seriously impaired. One day, just before leaving home, I was alone with God in my room, praying for His healing power to come upon me. All at once a change took place. The difficulty in my head left me instantly, and I was made whole. My head has endured the strain of the meeting here and the one at Berrien Springs. At Berrien Springs my work was exceedingly difficult. It was terrible to see the blindness upon minds. But the Lord gave me special victories; angels of God stood by my side, and His Spirit rested on me.
(19LtMs, Lt 235, 1904, 4)
Let us have faith that we shall have special help from God. Let us not talk unbelief, but be cheerful in the Lord. Let us be one in Christ. Unity is strength. Christ’s last prayer with His disciples shows the importance of unity.
(19LtMs, Lt 235, 1904, 5)
My brother, have constant faith in God. Every day comes to us weighted with important responsibilities, which God alone can give us strength to fulfil. Be not weary in well-doing. Be always abounding in the work of the Lord. Walk and work by faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 235, 1904, 6)
Lt 237, 1904
Butler, G. I. Takoma Park, Maryland July 14, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 308-312. Dear Brother Butler,—
I began a letter to you a day or so ago, but I cannot find it, so will begin another without spending more time in looking.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 1)
I am still quite weak, but hope to gain strength. Every afternoon since we returned, with the exception of Wednesday afternoon and today, we have had rain, with thunder and lightning.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 2)
Matters here seem to be moving along nicely. But, you know, the foundations for buildings do not make much of a show. It takes time and hard labor to make a foundation that is firm and strong. The boys’ dormitory is going up. The lumber is on the ground, and the boys are hauling the sand that is to be used in making a cement for the outside finishing of the buildings.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 3)
The brethren have been able to buy some lumber very cheap. After the Baltimore fire, large quantities of lumber were shipped to that place. The supply exceeded the demand, and several lots of lumber were sent to Washington. It lay down at the wharves till the owners grew tired of paying storage, and our brethren have been able to purchase some at about half price. They think that they have saved nearly a thousand dollars by this transaction.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 4)
We have reason to be thankful that we are not in the city. I see more and more clearly the advantage of having a location at Takoma Park. Today Sara and I drove up and down the quiet, shady streets. It is a beautiful place for our institutions. The Lord has guided us here.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 5)
I expect to remain in Washington till the last of August. Then, if the Lord will, we shall go to Los Angeles to attend the camp-meeting there.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 6)
I feel very sad over the condition of things in Battle Creek, but, Brother Butler, the only thing we can do is to keep as quiet as possible. We shall be misjudged and falsified, but we must stand as firm as a rock for the truth. We are not to be at the beck and call of those who try to draw us away from the work that God has given us. Satan has come down with great power, to work through men who, though they have been given a knowledge of the truth, have not kept the faith once delivered to the saints, and have become active agencies in impeding the progress of God’s cause.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 7)
We must no longer allow ourselves to be called away from our God-given work. Our time is too precious. We must keep in the sunshine of the Lord’s presence, fulfilling the commission that Christ gave to His disciples just before His ascension.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 8)
“The eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” [Matthew 28:16-18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 9)
When we are inclined to despond, as I am when I cannot work as I long to, knowing as I do that time is fast passing, and that my life may go out at any time, we must take Christ at His word, and believe that “all power” is to be given to those who need it, that this power is for you and for me. Let us not look on the dark side, but look in faith to Jesus. Let us obey the Word:
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 10)
“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.” [Verses 19, 20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 11)
This is our work. Let us do it, teaching the things that Christ has commanded. The Lord will give us strength and grace. Let us trust Him. There is to be a turning and an overturning; but our work is not to stop. We are to instruct and enlighten those who have not heard the truth for this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 12)
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations,” was the word given to the disciples. [Verse 19.] Let us not allow our time to be occupied by lengthy discussions in board and committee meetings. When controversy arises, kneel down and pray.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 13)
Christ will give us facilities with which to work. Then let us do our best. All the Saviour’s teachings inculcate the need of the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We need a deeper trust. Our hearts need to be softened and subdued. We must co-operate with Christ, revealing the faith by which Abel obtained witness that he was righteous. It was by faith in the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world that he offered his sacrifice, and the Lord accepted the offering, sending fire from heaven to consume it.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 14)
God’s people are to use their talents and means and influence in doing the work He has given them. His denominated people are to occupy an important position before those who know not the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 15)
In ancient times, God sent His people into Egypt, keeping them there until His appointed time for bringing them out. Then, with a wonderful display of power, He delivered them and led them through the wilderness into the promised land. Those who murmured and complained, refusing to be converted from their evil ways, perished in the wilderness, but there were those who, because they were obedient, were sustained and strengthened by God. These were light-bearers to the nations through whose land they passed.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 16)
In all ages God’s faithful people have been aggressive missionaries, consecrating all their resources to the honor of God and wisely improving their talents. Today God’s people are to surrender to Him as a willing offering the powers of mind and body. In every age the Lord gives His people talents to be used for the saving of the world. He has established institutions from which the light of truth is to shine forth to every part of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 17)
To us the Lord has given a history of His work. The purity and unselfishness of His faithful servants is to be to us an example of what we may be. We are to be a chosen and peculiar people, zealous of good works, separated from all worldly ambition, working humbly with God. We are to be free from selfishness and pride. Our one desire is to be to honor God and advance His work in the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 18)
At this crisis all are called upon to take their position. We must stand apart from those who are determined to make shipwreck of the faith. We must not sell our Lord at any price. We are to refuse to listen to the sophistries that have been brought in to make of no effect the truth for this time. Not a stone is to be moved in the foundation of this truth—not a pillar moved.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 19)
Let God’s servants refuse to give the sophistries of the enemy a place in their minds. Do not examine these sophistries; they are Satan’s stock in trade. He is using as his agencies all who will be worked by him.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 20)
The time has come when even in the church and in our institutions some will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. But God will keep that which is committed to Him. Let us draw near to Him, that He may draw near to us. Let us bear a plain, clear testimony, right to the point, that hypnotism is being used by those who have departed from the faith, and that we are not to link up with them. Through those who depart from the faith the power of the enemy will be exercised to lead others astray.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 21)
I am instructed to warn our people that the perils of the last days are upon us. Those whose minds have become confused over the beautiful theories presented in Living Temple are losing their confidence in the faith once delivered to the saints. There are those who cannot discern their own danger. They have placed themselves where they reject the warnings of God’s Spirit, and the enemy is working through them to draw souls away from Christ. I am bidden to say, Beware, beware.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 22)
Friday morning
I awoke last night at twelve with a heavy burden resting on me, and I began to write a straight, decided message to our physicians and ministers in Battle Creek. When this is copied, you shall have a copy.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 23)
We are to strive earnestly for union on Bible lines. But we would better stand apart from those who will not heed the instruction of the Word of God; for they will always strive to vindicate their own course and will make charges against others. There are those who need to humble their hearts before they can be in union with truth and righteousness.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 24)
My soul cries out for the living God. I plead with Him to give might and strength and grace to His people. He will hear our prayers. We may rejoice in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 237, 1904, 25)
Lt 239, 1904
Walling, Addie; Walling, May Takoma Park, Maryland July 11, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear children Addie and May,—
I have desired to keep up a correspondence with you, and this is why I write. I have a deep interest in you both. I pray that in your lifework you may glorify the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 1)
I wish that Addie could be connected with some one of our schools, as a teacher of Spanish. And I wish that May could work in some one of our sanitariums, not to give heavy treatment, but as a teacher or a head nurse. I believe that she would be a blessing in the San Diego sanitarium, which, we hope, will soon be ready to open.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 2)
I ask you to tell me frankly whether you would be willing to connect with the work in the way I have mentioned. I am sure that there are openings you could fill without finding the labor wearisome. Please think of this. I feel unwilling that either of you should remain in New York through another winter.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 3)
We shall soon have a sanitarium in Los Angeles and one in Washington. Nurses of experience and capability will be needed in both of these institutions. Please tell me, May, how you are healthwise. I do not want you to overwork. I want you to be agreeably situated, where you can be cheered by the thought that you are looking unto Jesus, the great Physician, making Him your Friend.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 4)
The Lord has blessed me in a marvelous manner since I left California. I never realized His power more decidedly than I did at the Berrien Springs meeting. But the Lord cannot work through Dr. Kellogg unless there is a thorough breaking up of the fallow ground of his heart. O that we could see in his soul the dawning of spiritual light. He is lost in the fog of sophistry. He has talked out his damaging theories until he has done harm to many souls. Since the Berrien Springs meetings, I have had less hope than ever before of his making straight paths for his feet. He is in the condition outlined by the message to the Laodicean church.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 5)
After the Berrien Springs meeting, I accompanied Edson to his home in Nashville. We stayed with him and Emma for five weeks. While there, I spoke three times in the white church and once in the colored church.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 6)
We went to Graysville and spent two days there very pleasantly. Graysville is mostly made up of the homes of Seventh-day Adventists.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 7)
On Sabbath I spoke in our church there. In my weakness I had much strength; for God was with me.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 8)
The next day we were taken over the village to the different places of interest. I was most interested in the Sanitarium that has recently been built on the mountainside. The location is a most beautiful one, and the building is neat and well planned. I am more than pleased with the earnestness and zeal that the brethren have shown in the erection of this memorial. Success has attended their unselfish efforts. Each worker has taken hold to help the other, and all have drawn in even cords. This is just as it should be. When workers labor thus, their efforts reveal the sweet fragrance of godliness.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 9)
Behind the Sanitarium, a little farther up the mountainside, there is a living spring of clear, cold water. This is a treasure of more value than gold or silver.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 10)
Trained nurses are needed at the Sanitarium, and an experienced, motherly woman is needed to take charge. But I would not have you go there, May. It is a beautiful place, but I would not have you bear the burdens that I fear you would be obliged to bear should you go.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 11)
On Monday morning we went to Huntsville. We found the school situated in a beautiful country place. There are over three hundred acres in the school farm, most of which is under cultivation. But for several years the land has not received the attention that it should have had, and the present showing is not the most favorable.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 12)
Not long ago the suggestion was made to me, “Would it not be well to sell the school land at Huntsville, and buy a smaller place?” Instruction was given me that the land should not be sold; that the situation possessed many advantages for the carrying forward [of] a colored school. I was shown what the school could become, and what those could become who go there for an education, if the will of God is carried out. But in order for this to be, a man of managing ability must be placed in charge, a man who can give the students an example of how things are to be done and make the school farm blossom as a rose.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 13)
We stayed at Huntsville till Wednesday. I spoke several times. We saw but few of the students, as school had closed, and most of the students had gone their different ways.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 14)
After we returned to Nashville I had much writing to do. The Sabbath before we left, I spoke to the church. It was the day for communion service, and I had freedom in speaking words appropriate for the occasion.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 15)
I was not at all well for the last few days that I was in Nashville. I had no appetite, and I felt sick all the time. We thought that perhaps we could leave for Washington Monday afternoon. But we learned that a meeting of the Southern Union Conference was to be held in Nashville on Tuesday, and we decided to stay for that. I met the Committee in a room on the fourth floor of the publishing house and spoke to them for over an hour.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 16)
On Wednesday morning we got ready to leave, having decided to go on the evening train. All Wednesday I wrote letters that must be sent to different ones, and when the time came for us to go to the train, I was very weary. I felt as if I could not go another inch.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 17)
We reached Washington at ten o’clock Friday morning, and I am now once more in my nice room. I have not been at all well for the past two or three days, but have suffered a great deal from nausea. I am quite weak and have not yet felt strong enough to talk with any of the brethren here.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 18)
I have received the wristers that you sent me. Thank you very much. If I am careful of them, they may last me as long as I live.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 19)
In closing, I would advise you once more to get out of New York into the country, if you can. Tell me what your plans for the future are. I will write again as soon as I know more in regard to our movements.
(19LtMs, Lt 239, 1904, 20)
Lt 241, 1904
White, J. E. Takoma Park, Maryland July 18, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Son Edson,—
I have just read your letter. I am glad that you have decided not to worry; for it does no good.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 1)
Willie sent you five hundred dollars a few days ago. As soon as we can get the post office order cashed, I shall send ten dollars for the colored sanitarium and four dollars to assist in paying for the seats in the colored meetinghouse.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 2)
I hope to succeed in borrowing money to help you in your work. I shall do the best I can. Do not worry. I hope that means will soon come in from some quarter. But I am not going to worry.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 3)
Yes, send Emma to her mother. She needs a change. I hope that she will have a prosperous journey.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 4)
I am still very weak. My food does not seem to strengthen me. But I am working. Last Sabbath I spoke in the Takoma Hall, which our people have rented for Sabbath meetings. The owner of the hall was present, and about twelve others from the town. The hall was well filled, and the Lord strengthened me. The notice that I would speak had not been given out; for I was so weak the Sabbath before that I dared not promise. But I shall, with the help of the Lord, speak again to this people, who have never heard the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 5)
After dinner on Sabbath a gentleman and lady from Baltimore were brought to my room and introduced to me. They are intelligent, noble-looking people. The gentleman told me that two years ago he made no profession of religion, and his wife was a Roman Catholic. They are now Seventh-day Adventists, and both are desirous of entering the work. I think that a place in connection with some branch of the work will be found for them. May the Lord direct them, is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 6)
Later in the afternoon Brethren Prescott and Daniells and Brother I. H. Evans called to see me. We wanted to sit outside on the broad piazza, but the sky looked as if rain might come any minute, so we decided to stay inside. We talked long and earnestly in regard to the way in which the work should be advanced, and how some matters in Battle Creek should be managed. As the sun was setting, we had a praying season, in which all joined. We believed that the Lord our counselor will give us light as to how we should move.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 7)
There are many things to be considered in regard to the location of our buildings here. We realize that we must be moved by the Holy Spirit. I do not doubt but that the Lord will lead and guide you, also, my son. We pray for you, and we want you to be of good courage. The Lord is our helper. If we trust in Him, we shall always be on vantage ground.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 8)
Sunday morning I was called to Washington to speak to the company of workers who are about to engage in a tent effort and Bible work in the city. I spoke for about an hour and then come home, very, very tired.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 9)
Sunday afternoon I went with Willie and Brother Baird to the school ground to see the foundation of the boys’ dormitory. The work has been thoroughly done. I never saw a more substantial foundation.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 10)
The Thornton tract of land, which the brethren desired to get for the Review and Herald buildings, is still in dispute in the court. The mayor of Takoma Park is very anxious for our people to have this piece of ground, and he and all the lawyers with whom our brethren have talked are sure that were the matter referred to a higher court, the decision of the lower court regarding the disposal of the land would be upheld.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 11)
Edson, do not be troubled by the perplexities that arise, and do not sell your hard-earned place for a song, even to those connected with you in the work. You have no surplus of means to lose. If all would do as they would be done by, their characters would be kept pure and clean and bright. We shall all be tested and tried, that it may be seen what our characters are.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 12)
May God help and strengthen and bless you, is my prayer. Be of good courage, and let your testimony be of a character to win souls to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 241, 1904, 13)
Lt 243, 1904
Union Conference Presidents Huntsville, Alabama June 15, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in PCO 94-96. + To Union Conference presidents,—
During the past night, scenes that clearly outline our present situation were vividly presented to me. Scenes that had passed before me while we were on the steamer “Morning Star” were again presented. These representations, with the instruction given me, make clear to my mind the experiences of the Berrien Springs meeting and of the councils which followed in Battle Creek. The long-suffering patience of God, and His wonderful forbearance, were manifested during the Berrien Springs meeting. Once more the Lord held forth to men who have been linking up with worldlings and working with unbelieving lawyers the words of love and mercy that He has been speaking for years.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 1)
The meeting at Berrien Springs was an occasion of great perplexity to many of our brethren. It was a time of heavy burden and taxing labor for me. The Lord strengthened me and gave me power to stand before the people and speak words of counsel and encouragement. A special message of hope and courage was given for the men at Battle Creek. Oh, why did they not lay hold of it! There was opportunity for them to be placed upon vantage ground. Why did they not appreciate this opportunity? Greater evidence will not be given them that God is calling for a change of attitude. Some good confessions were made, but some chose to justify themselves and demanded confessions from their brethren.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 2)
I have been given no encouragement to go to Battle Creek. I was shown that efforts would be made to call our leading men to Battle Creek to investigate the Scriptures and discuss points of difference. I was then instructed that the students who had been called to Battle Creek, and the ministers held there, are in a dangerous atmosphere. The proposition to continue the same relations to Battle Creek, which again and again have been pointed out as detrimental, and the proposal to do that which should not be done are ill timed and dangerous. The result of these relations is unbelief in the movings of the providence of God. The testimonies that the Lord has given to establish the faith of His people in His Word have been made of no effect.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 3)
Men have sneered at the thought that it was God’s judgments which had come upon the institutions in Battle Creek. Notwithstanding this, God’s hand of mercy was not withdrawn from the institutions and the men in positions of responsibility. He still strove to save those who have been binding themselves up with worldlings.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 4)
God sent His judgments on the institutions in Battle Creek for the purpose of scattering the many people congregated in that place. Those who counterwork the work of God, those who disregard His Word must beware lest they bring upon themselves a still more severe retribution. The Lord’s long forbearance has been interpreted by some to mean that there was no special need for repentance. “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” [Ecclesiastes 8:11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 5)
I have been instructed to say that altogether too long have our ministers been answering the call to come to Battle Creek to attend councils. That which has been done by calling men away from their work to attend councils in Battle Creek for the purpose of bringing about a better understanding has failed to meet our expectations, because leading men in the medical work were determined to carry out their cherished plans, and at the close of each council these men have made representations that they had gained decided victories.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 6)
It has been shown me that the effort made at Berrien Springs to save the leading men in the medical work was interpreted by them as a victory over their brethren and has been used to strengthen their hands in the carrying out of their purposes. The gracious invitation was given, “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.] But the invitation was not accepted. The Lord says, “Why will you not come to Me and find rest? Why do you refuse My outstretched, helping hand?”
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 7)
After speaking for the last time at Berrien Springs, a scene passed before me, showing that some would construe what had been done at that meeting to save them, as special victories for their side. I saw evil angels working with their deceptive sophistries on men’s minds, so that they might work on other minds, to deceive if possible the very elect. I was filled with an intense desire that those who were deceived might come to the light.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 8)
Our brethren are not to be called to Battle Creek to hold a council for the examination of doctrines, while the men who profess to know the truth remain surrounded by a cloud of unbelief. Our ministers, instead of turning their faces toward a council at Battle Creek, should be considering the thousands of people in the cities of America, who should be hearing the message of warning. These cities have been strangely neglected, and the judgment will reveal the result. By the large investments of means in the Battle Creek Sanitarium, many have been robbed of the help that God designed them to have.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 9)
This is not a time to call from the field our leading workers to discuss and adjust points of difference between the medical workers and the workers in other lines. The remedy for many of these differences will be found in heeding the messages of counsel published in recent testimonies.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 10)
The present is a time for aggressive work in the field. To our brethren in Washington the word is given, “Arise and build.” [Nehemiah 2:20.] To our people in all the Conferences the word is, “Strengthen the hands of the builders.”
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 11)
Let those who are asked to leave their work to engage in a council at Battle Creek read the sixth chapter of Nehemiah:
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 12)
“It came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein, (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates:) that Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down; why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you. Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 13)
“Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand; wherein it was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel; for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words. And thou hast appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, There is a king in Judah; and now it shall be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 14)
“Then sent I unto him, saying, There are no such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart.” [Verses 1-8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 15)
History is being repeated. Work of this nature has been done and will be done again.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 16)
Nehemiah continues: “For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands. Afterward I came into the house of Shemiah, ... who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple, for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night they will come to slay thee. And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in. And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced this prophecy against me; for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him. Therefore was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin, that they might have matter for an evil report, that they might reproach me.” [Verses 9-13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 17)
A work similar to this will be done, and Seventh-day Adventists will have to meet it.
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 18)
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on 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 withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked, and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” [Ephesians 6:10-17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 243, 1904, 19)
Lt 245, 1904
McClure, N. C. Takoma Park, Maryland July 12, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 268-269. Elder N. C. McClure
Healdsburg, California My dear Brother,—
We are here in Washington, engaged in doing what we can toward the advancement of the work. I have just returned from a trip to the South. I spent six weeks there, during which time I visited Nashville, Graysville, and Huntsville.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 1)
We spent a week on the Cumberland River, in the steamer “Morning Star.” Edson was very anxious that I should take this trip, and it was indeed a great rest for me. Brethren Magan and Sutherland, Willie, Brother W. O. Palmer, and Edson and his wife were in the party; also Brother Crisler, Sara, and Maggie. The brethren were searching for land on which to establish a school, and they had heard that some distance up the river land could be obtained for a very low price. But they found that the price of land was as high seventy or eighty miles from Nashville as nearer the city.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 2)
During the time that we spent in Nashville, we had many profitable counsels in regard to the work. We also spent considerable time in looking at properties for sale. On the way down the river, we looked at a four-hundred-acre farm that Brother Magan and Brother Sutherland thought would be a favorable place for the training school that they wish to establish near Nashville. As we looked this place over, we became deeply interested in it. The size of the farm, its location, the distance that it is from Nashville, and the moderate sum for which it could be purchased seemed to point it out as the very place for our work here. The house is old, but it can be used until more suitable school buildings can be erected.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 3)
Other properties were examined, but we found nothing so well suited to our work. The price of the place, including standing crops, farm machinery, and over seventy head of cattle was $12,723.00. I felt so thoroughly convinced that it was a favorable location for the work that I advised our brethren to make the purchase.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 4)
The place has been purchased, and as soon as possible, Brethren Magan and Sutherland, with a few experienced helpers, will begin school work. We feel confidence that the Lord has been guiding in this matter.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 5)
Possession cannot be taken of the house until September. Brethren Magan and Sutherland have returned to Berrien Springs to bind off their work there and to raise funds in the North for the new training school.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 6)
After our trip up the river, we visited Graysville and Huntsville. We found that the work at Graysville had made encouraging advancement. But the Huntsville school must be given assistance. Bricks cannot be made without straw.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 7)
I need money to use in the work. I hope that you may have an opportunity to sell my Healdsburg place. I have felt that I ought to receive $3,000.00 for it. At one time you asked me if I would accept $2,800.00, and I hesitated. But now I would be glad to sell it for $2,800.00, if I could have the money to use in this time of necessity. Please advertise the place as for sale in the Healdsburg paper and also in The Signs of the Times.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 8)
Please do your best for us. Give my love to your wife. I hope that both you and she are well.
(19LtMs, Lt 245, 1904, 9)
Lt 247, 1904
Young, W. R. Takoma Park, Maryland July 19, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 118-119; 5Bio 379. Mr. W. R. Young My dear Brother,—
I am very glad that you have been impressed to send some money to the work in Washington. I now wish to ask you if you could lend me one thousand dollars, to be used in bringing out some important books. It will be a great favor if you can do this. I am anxious to get out some new books, and I need money to assist in their publication. The Ministry of Healing is now almost ready for the printer, and I am anxious to get it before the people as soon as possible. It is needed in the field.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 1)
The world is to be warned. There are still many new fields to open. There are many cities to be worked. We stand before the world as God’s denominated people, and we must do our appointed work. We are not to obey the principles of the world; we are not to conform to its customs; we are to be a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 2)
We are seeking to secure land in different places, where our workers can have buildings of their own. The formation of the people of God into visible societies gives them marked power. We do not design to make large, conspicuous centers. But as God’s standard-bearers we are gathering together, and the work is going on. Sanitariums must be established, schools started, and meetinghouses built.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 3)
For the present we are to center our forces on the establishment of our work here in Takoma Park. From this place the light of truth is to shine forth in clear, bright rays. It is essential that light be added to light, to accomplish the object that God desires to have accomplished. When believers are gathered together in church capacity, they are placed on vantage ground, where they can stand independent of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 4)
For many years there was nothing in the city of Washington to represent our faith but a small meetinghouse. During the past two years another meetinghouse has been bought and paid for. This building has been rededicated since we came to Washington. It stands in this important city as a representation of another world than this—the kingdom of heaven; of other laws than the world honors and obeys; of enjoyment and power of a higher order than men possess; of a faith of which Christ is the Alpha and the Omega.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 5)
I thank God that we have this commodious meetinghouse in Washington. It is a memorial of God’s truth, a sign that He has people who keep His law, acknowledging Him as the supreme Ruler.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 6)
How important it is that we should reveal in our lives and in our work the self-sacrificing spirit of Christ. Not one thread of selfishness is to be drawn into the web. We are to wear the yoke of Christ, ever showing a readiness to deny self, living a life which in its purity and holiness stands out in vivid contrast to the selfishness of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 7)
God’s law is eternal, unchangeable, immutable. It is an expression of His high authority. Upon us rests the responsibility of obeying the word of the highest Potentate in heaven. “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep,” He declares; “for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations forever.” [Exodus 31:13.] Human beings are to bring themselves into entire conformity to God’s holy law. The cross of Calvary is to be to them a perpetual memorial of the nobler world. By faith they are to see Him who is invisible. They have enlisted in Christ’s army, and they are to come out from the world, and be separate, loving not the world, neither the things of the world. They are to set their affections on things above. They are to represent Christ in character. This is the special charge that has been given them. They are to live in this world as men and women waiting only for that perfection of character which will enable them fully to represent the Saviour. How important, then, that they should stand out in bold relief from the world, beseeching men to be reconciled to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 247, 1904, 8)
Lt 249, 1904
Arthur, Brother and Sister [Jesse] Takoma Park, Maryland July 19, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in UL 214. Dear Brother and Sister Arthur,—
I am very much interested in you and your precious family. I am hoping that on my return to California, my health will permit me to spend one Sabbath at least with the Battle Creek church. We feel very grateful to you for the help you have rendered in the settling up of the business of the Review and Herald.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 1)
My dear brother and sister, let nothing separate you from your God. The Lord Jesus will be a present help to you in every time of need.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 2)
The gift of speech is a wonderful talent. Never should it be misused. It is ever to be used to bear witness to the truth and to lead others to Christ. God’s commandment-keeping people are to show to those in the world the power that the grace of Christ has to transform hearts defiled by sin. They are to work with hope and courage, seeing by faith the glory that awaits the overcomer.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 3)
Every true Christian will follow Christ. Clear and distinct the Saviour’s voice is heard, “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 natural appetites and inclinations crave earthly pleasures. But those who love Jesus will bring these appetites and inclinations into harmony with His will. They have chosen to be on the Lord’s side, and their lives are to stand out in vivid contrast to the self-seeking of worldlings. The tempter will come to them with his blandishments and bribes, saying, “All this will I give thee if thou wilt worship me.” [Matthew 4:9.] But they know that he has nothing worth receiving, and they refuse to yield to his temptations. Through the grace of God, they are enabled to keep their purity of principle unsullied. Holy angels are close beside them, and Christ is revealed in their steadfast adherence to the truth. They are Christ’s minute men, bearing, as true witnesses, a decided testimony in favor of His truth. They show that there is a spiritual power that can enable men not to swerve an inch from truth and justice for all the gifts men can bestow.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 4)
Such ones, wherever they may be, will be honored of heaven, because they have conformed their lives to the will of God, caring not what sacrifices they are called upon to make.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 5)
Religion is not pretense. All shallowness must be avoided. Christian character is built by receiving and believing in Christ. “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.] The true Christian carefully cherishes the truth, realizing that it is more precious than gold. He has an argument that is proof against all the assaults of the enemy.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 6)
Nothing but the truth of God can meet the needs of the soul. This truth must be enshrined in the heart, becoming a part of the life. Thus an experience is gained that makes the soul watchful, careful to do nothing that would be out of harmony with the will of Him who died that men and women might have eternal life. He was tempted in all points like as we are, yet without sin. He knows how to succor those who are tempted.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 7)
Satan is ever watching for a chance to corrupt the soul and spoil the integrity. He who is off his guard will be assailed and overcome. Our safety depends on having Christ as our Saviour. The pardon that He gives brings rest and security to the soul. Let us be sure that we are rooted and grounded in the faith. Bible doctrines are precious to the soul because they contain holy principles.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 8)
We must have a better, safer teacher than any man that lives can be, in order for our lives to be in accordance with the will of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 9)
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen; to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed 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 thine house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 10)
“Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily; and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward. 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 foundation of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 11)
“If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and shalt honor Him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words; then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy Father; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” [Isaiah 58:6-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 12)
I know that temptation will come to every one. Unless the people of God heed His Word, the enemy will come to them with his sophistries and will corrupt their faith. But Christ desires you, my dear brother and sister, to obtain precious victories every day. Do not allow the thought to come into your mind that human beings can work out their own salvation. Our growth in grace comes by daily seeking counsel of God, and daily exercising faith in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 13)
“I will mention the lovingkindness of the Lord, and all the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which He hath bestowed on them according to His mercy, and according to the multitude of His lovingkindness. For He said, Surely they are My people, children that will not lie; so He was their Saviour. In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them; in His love and in His pity He redeemed them; and He bare them, and carried them all the days of old.” [Isaiah 63:7-9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 14)
Brother and Sister Arthur, may the Lord shield you and your children from every misleading influence. Make the Word of God your counselor. Trust not in any human being, but trust in the Lord with all your heart. Leave your case in His hands. He will strengthen you and help you to walk uprightly. He will give His angels charge over you, so that evil angels shall not lead you to pervert the truth. The Lord will guide you if you will trust in Him, and not in human beings whose feet are on sliding sand and whose hearts are not at rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 15)
May God give you rest, assurance, and living faith. May He strengthen your faith in the living truth. May you be found of Him, not having your own righteousness, but the righteousness that is of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 16)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 249, 1904, 17)
Lt 249a, 1904
Arthur, Brother and Sister [Jesse] Nashville, Tennessee June 27, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5Bio 346. Dear Brother and Sister Arthur,—
We have now been in the South several weeks. In many things we find great improvement since we were here before. The brethren in the publishing house are kept very busy and seem to be doing well.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 1)
In the city of Nashville, they are doing their best to give treatments in rented rooms, and they have started a small Sanitarium about four miles out from the city. This we visited. We were pleased with the physician and his wife. In Australia we had become acquainted with the head nurse, and I consider her an excellent woman. We were much pleased with the neatness and order about the institution, although the facilities are meager. A more suitable place should be secured.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 2)
We have been looking for a better location for the Sanitarium and are much pleased with a property not far from the city. On this land we find buildings erected, formerly used for a school, but furnished with plenty of good water and provided with facilities for sanitarium work. With the addition of a few conveniences, they can soon accommodate patients. This work should be begun as soon as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 3)
We were directed to one place, a very large and expensive mansion almost beyond description in its splendor. It was finished with mahogany and rosewood and elegantly furnished throughout. Its broad piazza would be an excellent place for the patients in wheel chairs, and the lofty trees surrounding the house were a delight to the eyes.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 4)
For this building and one hundred acres of land fifty thousand dollars was asked. This was not more than the house cost, but we told the people who were offering it for sale that we could not invest so much in one place. While we should seek to make everything pleasant and desirable for the sick, yet we must not invest more than is necessary to meet the people where they are. We must provide for poor as well as wealthy patients, and both should be made to feel at home.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 5)
For those who are living only for this world, this would be a very desirable property. Its beauty and splendor are far ahead of any mansion we have ever before visited. But we could not entertain the idea of paying the large price that was asked for it. We could not afford to invest large means in unnecessary display, and thus rob the next enterprise for which money will be needed. We are to begin small, and though we may not at first provide all the facilities that are needed, yet we can build up as the Lord prospers our work.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 6)
Our sanitarium work is very important, but our medical institutions should correspond with all that the name “medical missionary” signifies. Any magnificent display such as was to be found in the building we have described would misrepresent the character we should bear as Christ’s medical missionary evangelists, who are seeking to reach the people in the highways and the byways with the present truth. We must not invest in one institution so large a sum of money that we shall be hindered in the work of establishing other institutions in places where they are needed. We are to set an example of economy. We are pilgrims and strangers, looking for a city whose builder and maker is God.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 7)
We were next driven in our son’s carriage to look at a place about nine miles from Nashville, where our brethren have found a desirable place for locating school buildings.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 8)
We had heard of land that had been offered for sale at from five to ten dollars an acre, and with Brethren Sutherland and Magan we made a trip up the river on the steamer “Morning Star” to look at this land. We were disappointed to find that the land could not be purchased for less than forty or fifty dollars an acre.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 9)
A place of four hundred acres near Nashville has been offered to us for thirteen thousand dollars. Included in this sale are a number of horses, cows, and other stock, carriages and farming implements, also a house, that would be of use to the school. There are many beautiful cedar trees on the place. Fifty acres of the land is under cultivation, and the crops are in a flourishing condition. Portions of this land can be sold to those connected with the school for dwelling houses.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 10)
Judge Arthur, there is a great work to be done, and I do not see how it can ever be accomplished until those who love God realize the value that Christ has placed on the human soul. He gave Himself for humanity. He laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown. He stepped down from his place of high authority in the heavens. He humbled Himself, was born of humble parentage, and chose a life of poverty. When a lad, He toiled as a carpenter. For our sakes He became poor, that through His infinite sacrifice, we might inherit eternal riches in the kingdom of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 11)
Those who are converted will cease all their worldly scheming, their working with worldly lawyers, and like sensible men and women will live with the eternal world in view.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 12)
Christ, “after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth expecting till His enemies should be made His footstool. For by one offering He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that He had said before, This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which He hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh; and having an high priest over the house of God; let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” [Hebrews 10:12-25.]
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 13)
“He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite to the Spirit of grace?” [Verses 28, 29.]
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 14)
Brother Arthur, I am instructed that you have been under a cloud of perplexity. But in the trials that are yet to come, I want you to stand on the Lord’s side. I have believed you to be a truly converted man. If for any reason you permit yourself to be brought into bondage, it will be because you are influenced by men, when your heart should be influenced by the Holy Spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 15)
Evil spirits are working upon the mind of Dr. Kellogg. He is a stranger to the sanctifying influence of the truth upon his heart. He is seeking to obtain every advantage possible to further his own ends. He is trying to lay off upon the General Conference heavy burdens. With bribes he has sought to bind men to follow his plans and work his ways. It seems strange that so many will remain under the control of his will power.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 16)
The Lord Jesus calls upon you to take your stand decidedly, to honor God, and not man. One of authority laid His hand upon your shoulder and said, “Do you believe the words of the living God? You need to stand on a higher platform, as a free man in Christ Jesus. Do not be bought or sold. You have wrought the will of a man who is linked up with evil angels, a man who has received instruction from the great apostate. Look unto Jesus. You are not amenable to Dr. Kellogg. Christ came to break every yoke.”
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 17)
The Messenger continued, “Your soul is of value; Christ gave His life for you. Will you sell your soul for naught? Let your influence be such as to vindicate truth and righteousness, whatever may be the consequences. Your family needs such an influence in the home. Press close to the side of Christ, who has bought you with a price, and seek to help those who are entangled in the snare of the enemy, that they may go free. The Holy Spirit will vindicate such a work. Any unfairness done to the people of God is done to Christ in the person of His saints.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 18)
“You now see dimly, as through a mist, but you may receive clear eyesight if you will look unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith. Will you break every fetter? Will you go free, determined to stand on vantage ground with God, that evil angels may not have the victory over you?”
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 19)
God has said, “He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase.” [Ecclesiastes 5:10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 20)
Christ loves you. Do not accept the sophistries that are to be found in Living Temple. Do not read it, nor believe the doctrines that are taught therein. Its teaching will lead you away from the water of life.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 21)
No man should require a bribe to induce him to keep his position. We have seen enough of such work, enough of unfair dealing and seductive scheming. Keep your soul untainted.
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 22)
The Messenger of God said to you, “Will you take hold of My strength, and make peace with Me?” [See Isaiah 27:5.] Looking up with eyes filled with tears, you confessed that you had nearly been overcome with temptation, but you said, “I knew not that I was denying the truth and My Saviour. I with my family must have a place in the kingdom that Christ has gone to prepare for us. My children must be members of the Lord’s family.”
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 23)
Words of encouragement were then spoken, and the charge was given to Judge Arthur: “Whatsoever the consequences, firmly resolve that you will engage in no action that is in any way unjust. Act with decision, and your future will be approved of God, and you will become more and more useful. Let the world behold your love and devotion to God. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and may glorify your Father which is in heaven. Be ready to accept every Bible truth, and hold the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. Never be ashamed of your Saviour, who gave His life for you. He is the glory and the ornament of the universe. Glorify God, and do His will, and you will know of the doctrine: though you have been confused, the blindness will pass from your eyes.”
(19LtMs, Lt 249a, 1904, 24)
Lt 251, 1904
Simpson, Abbie Winegar Takoma Park, Maryland July 22, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in AUCR 09/01/1904. Dr. Abbie Winegar-Simpson
Los Angeles, California My dear Sister,—
Today I received and read your very cheering letter. For the good news which it contained I praise our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Your description of the work being done in Los Angeles agrees with the representations that God has given me. The delay in beginning this work has been very painful to me; but if the work is now carried on in earnest faith, if the truth as it is in Jesus is magnified, if wise personal efforts are made, many souls will be brought from darkness to light. What a work might have been done many years ago! But I thank the Lord for the favorable beginning that has now been made.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 1)
In the visions of the night I was bearing a message to our churches, pointing out the work that as believers we should at once take up. I related some things that were presented to me in Nashville, just after I had returned from Huntsville.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 2)
A school for colored people is being carried on in Huntsville, but I was greatly pained while there to see the poverty-stricken condition of the institution. I knew from previous presentations that this was displeasing to God, and that the school was not accomplishing that which He designed it to accomplish. I resolved to bear a plain, clear-cut testimony to our people, telling them that the money spent in the adornment of dress is a misappropriation of God’s money lent us to use in the advancement of His work.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 3)
Here are our ministers and physicians and missionaries. They labor hard and earnestly, but often they are greatly hindered in their work because the treasury is empty, and they cannot have the facilities necessary for the greatest success of their labors.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 4)
To us has been entrusted the work of proclaiming the last message of mercy to be given to our world—the message that is to prepare a people to stand in the day of God. Do we realize our accountability? Are we acting our part in the proclamation of this message?
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 5)
When I see our people spending money for needless trimmings, needless furnishings, I think of Jesus. He might have come to this world adorned with the glory of His kingly power. But He chose a life of self-denial and sacrifice. He came to this world in the garb of humanity. Those who follow in His footsteps will remember that every dollar they can spare is needed in the work that God has said shall be done in this world.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 6)
When in Nashville I saw Brother and Sister Hansen trying in every way to do the greatest amount of good in the city, fitting up a few rooms in which to give treatment, economizing, and not sparing themselves, I felt like weeping. I thought, O what a great work might be accomplished if every Seventh-day Adventist family would do their utmost in God’s service.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 7)
Brother and Sister Hayward also are working earnestly to carry forward medical missionary work in Nashville. I visited them at the place in which for the present they are carrying on their sanitarium work. The house is not at all suitable for their work, and I longed that they might have a better building, where they could accomplish much more with less effort. Brother and Sister Hayward and their helpers are doing their best. They make the facilities that they have go as far as they will. But they must have a more suitable building for their work.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 8)
Elder Butler and Elder Haskell and my son Edson are in Nashville, trying to advance the work among the white and the colored people. I bore my message in the new church that has recently been built for the colored people, and the Lord blessed me in speaking.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 9)
When our sisters are buying and making up their own and their children’s garments, let them think of the work in the Lord’s vineyard that is still waiting to be done. It is right to buy good material and to have it carefully made. This is economy. But rich trimmings are not needed, and to indulge in them is to spend for self-gratification money that should be put into God’s cause.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 10)
Schools and sanitariums and meetinghouses are needed in the South. The people there must be warned. To my sisters who are inclined to spend much in trimming their clothes, I would say, “Deny yourselves, and put the money thus saved aside to send to the help of those who need help so much. Let the self-denial boxes sent out by the Southern Missionary Society be kept in plain sight in the homes of our people.”
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 11)
My sisters, remember that Christ clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this world to uplift fallen human beings, that they might stand on vantage ground, thus escaping the corruption that is in the world through lust. He gave His all to the work that He came to do, and His word to us is, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 12)
Remember, too, the words of the apostle: “Whose adorning, let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” [1 Peter 3:3, 4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 13)
Let us take heed to God’s words of warning, lest at any time we let them slip, and our hearts become evil hearts of unbelief. Just as soon as those who know the truth put away their unbelief, and practice the self-denial enjoined in the Word of God, the message will go with power. God will hear our prayers for the conversion of souls. God’s people will let their light shine forth, and unbelievers, seeing their good works, will glorify our heavenly Father.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 14)
I call upon every church member to remember that we who are working in Washington are in need of your stretching your hands toward heaven and pleading with the Lord to put His Spirit upon every worker, imbuing them with His rich grace. Here is Elder Daniells bearing heavy responsibilities and putting to the tax every power of mind and body to advance the work. He needs each day the healing, reviving power of the Holy Spirit. It is your prayers we need, as well as your gifts. Both are essential, but your prayers are of the greatest importance.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 15)
Do not let us forget God, but, like Joshua, who was placed at the head of a migrating nation, and was burdened with heavy responsibilities, resolve to serve God and Him alone. “As for me and my house,” he declared, “we will serve the Lord.” [Joshua 24:15.]
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 16)
O let every believer ask God to give special help to the workers in Washington, that no wrong moves may be made, that there may be no extravagance in the outlay of means. We need the meekness of the Redeemer. I pray that we may all put on Christ, wearing the robe of His righteousness.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 17)
Our sanitariums are to be furnished suitably, but all extravagance is to be avoided. While one institution might launch out into extra elegance, others might not be able to obtain the needed facilities. Those in charge of our sanitariums are to work unselfishly, keeping in mind the other sanitariums that are to be established and that may be in need of assistance.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 18)
We sincerely hope that in Southern California the work will make decided advancement. Two properties for sanitarium work have now been purchased and will be ready for use as soon as they are furnished. We feel so thankful for the sanitarium property in San Diego. I am sure that when the building there is provided with facilities, it will do a good work. And I praise the Lord that those who have been carrying on sanitarium work in Los Angeles will soon be able to move into more comfortable quarters.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 19)
May the Lord bless you and the rest of your family. I hope that when we return to California, we shall have the privilege of seeing you and talking with you.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 20)
Love to each member of the family.
(19LtMs, Lt 251, 1904, 21)
Lt 253, 1904
Hart, R. A. Takoma Park, Maryland July 18, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in UL 213. Dear Brother Hart,—
I am very anxious for you. I greatly desire that you shall change your attitude and purify your heart from all selfishness. Because you have invested your means in houses and land in Battle Creek, shall this become a snare to your soul, leading you to make strange paths for your feet? The only safety for those living in Battle Creek is for them to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with their God.
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 1)
The Lord Jesus is your Redeemer. Will you not appreciate the great sacrifice He has made for you? No one has any justification for departing from Bible principles. In order that the truth of God may regulate your life, you must resist the influence of those who have heeded temptation, those who have sneered at the statement that in the calamities which have befallen our institutions in Battle Creek, God’s judgments have been seen.
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 2)
He who is sensitive to the admonitions of the Lord will work out his own salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God who is working in him, to will and to do of His good pleasure. The truth of God, abiding in the heart, brings the principles of the law of God into daily practice.
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 3)
The man who consents to be deceived is the man in whose heart the truth is not abiding. To be occasionally a Christian, to be occasionally devout, is a great deception. It is living a lie. An occasional glance at the Word of God is not enough. An occasional petition to the throne of grace, a form of words, does not bring a supply of grace for the soul’s need. In order for the truth of God to regulate the life, it must be implanted in the heart. It must be brought into the inmost life.
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 4)
The day will come when you will see that it does not pay to trifle with the interests of your soul, allowing it to become diseased, so inefficient that Christ declares, “Ye are neither cold nor hot. So then, because ye are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth.” [See Revelation 3:15, 16.] What does this mean? That He will no longer present the name of such a one to His Father.
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 5)
Christ clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this world to live a life free from spot or stain of sin, that human beings, by laying hold of the divinity, might become partakers of the divine nature, thus escaping the corruption that is in the world through lust. To those who receive Christ as a personal Saviour, the veil that conceals the glory of God from human discernment is drawn aside. With the eye of faith they behold eternal realities.
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 6)
The Word of God is to be brought into the very life. “I am the bread of life,” Christ declares. “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. He that eateth My flesh and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.”“It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [John 6:35, 53, 54, 63.]
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 7)
Study the whole of the sixth chapter of John. Strive for your soul’s sake to understand it; and do all in your power to redeem the past. You must have a spiritual experience very different from that which you now have, if you obtain eternal life. As you now are, you could not enjoy the pure atmosphere of heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 253, 1904, 8)
Lt 255, 1904
Magan, P. T.; Sutherland, E. A. Takoma Park, Maryland July 23, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 7ABC 466; SpM 361-365. + Dear Brethren Magan and Sutherland,—
I have words of counsel for you. There must be harmony between you and the men in responsible positions in the General Conference. You catch at straws in matters concerning Elder Daniells and Elder Prescott. Why?—Because they have not harmonized with you in all your plans and have not given you the credit that you deserved. But when the Lord corrected errors, and spoke encouraging words concerning your efforts, why did you not thank Him, and show your gratitude by manifesting forgiveness, and showing an appreciation of the burdens borne by these fellow workers. Why did you cast imputations upon Elders Daniells and Prescott, or allow others to cast imputations upon them?
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 1)
Your feelings in regard to Elder Daniells and Elder Prescott are not correct. If you expect them to harmonize with you, you must harmonize with them. The Lord has declared that He will harmonize with Elder Daniells and Elder Prescott. I know of what I am speaking; for these things have been represented to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 2)
I wish to ask you a question. Whom would you have selected for president of the General Conference? Will you please to name the man? At the time of the last General Conference, the situation was a most trying one, and there needed to be chosen as president a man who was in harmony with the work that God was trying to do through the testimonies.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 3)
Elder Daniells and Elder Prescott have made some mistakes. But a grave mistake was made when you and Elder A. T. Jones set yourselves to the defense of the movement for the reopening of the Battle Creek College, the full results of which neither of you understood. The Lord did not inspire the words spoken in defense of that movement and the criticisms which were made against the attitude of the men who felt it their duty to point out the dangers attending the effort to bring a large number of our youth to Battle Creek. Another counsellor had taken the place of the divine counsellor.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 4)
In this perilous time the Lord has given us men of His choice to stand as the leaders of His people. If these men will keep humble and prayerful, ever making Christ their confidant, listening to and obeying His words, the Lord will lead and strengthen them. God has chosen Elder Daniells to bear responsibilities and has promised to make him capable, by His grace, of doing the work entrusted to him. And I must strengthen his hands and the work Professor Prescott is doing. They are standing in defense of the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 5)
The responsibilities of the position Elder Daniells occupies are great, and the tax upon his strength and courage is severe; and the Lord calls upon His people to hold up Elder Daniells’ hands, as he strives with all the powers of mind and body to advance the work. The Lord desires every church to offer prayer for him as he bears these heavy responsibilities. Our brethren and sisters should not stand ready to criticize and condemn those who are bearing heavy burdens. Let us refuse to listen to the words of censure spoken regarding the men upon whom rest such weighty responsibilities.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 6)
Elder Daniells is a man who has proved the testimonies to be true. And he has proved true to the testimonies. When he has found that he has differed from them, he has been willing to acknowledge his error and come to the light. If all others had done the same, there would be no such state of things as now exists. The Lord has given Elder Daniells reproof when he has erred, and he has shown his determination to stand on the side of truth and righteousness and to correct his mistakes.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 7)
My brethren, let us now do our best, not to discover wrong in Elder Daniells, but to help him. He has shown himself to be the man for the place. At this time there are needed men who dare to differ with those who are counterworking the plans of the Lord for this people. You have not discerned the true condition of the leaders of the medical missionary work at Battle Creek. You have not placed a correct estimate upon their actions. You have encouraged their ideas and plans altogether too much.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 8)
I know that Elder Daniells is the right man in the right place. He has stood nobly for the truth and has striven earnestly to deal in a right way with the controversies arising regarding the relation of the medical work to the evangelical work.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 9)
If the men whom the Lord has chosen to stand in positions of responsibility will heed the testimonies that God has given and is giving, if they will keep close to His Word, if they will separate from those who are binding up with worldly influences, they will be safe men for the times upon which we have entered.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 10)
*****
The words and attitude of Brother E. A. Sutherland and Brother A. T. Jones at the Berrien Springs meeting struck an inharmonious note—a note that was not inspired of God. It created a state of things which resulted in harm that they did not anticipate. It made the work of the meeting very much harder than it would otherwise have been. Had it not been for their injudicious course, the Berrien Springs Conference would have shown very different results.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 11)
My brethren, God is dishonored when you seek to throw a burden of censure upon your brethren, as you did at that meeting. You were not working in harmony with God; for this is not the way in which He works. If you felt a duty to lay before your brethren matters reflecting upon the leaders in General Conference work, it was your duty first to call the most reliable men together, and modestly present to them your statements. You should not have thrown in your ideas without counsel, as you did. The impulsive disposition of Brother Jones has led him many times to make wrong movements, which have called for correction and reproof.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 12)
At the Fresno camp-meeting, after I had borne a very plain testimony, Brother Jones acted the part of a man, doing thorough work in confession. He was working out his own salvation with fear and trembling. The blessing of the Lord came in, and the glory of God was revealed. Angels of heaven were in that meeting, and a great blessing was experienced by all who were present. And so it would have been in the meeting at Berrien Springs, if Dr. Kellogg had heartily accepted the message sent by the Lord and had fully broken with the enemy. A spirit of humiliation would have filled every heart, and sincere confessions would have been made by all.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 13)
At the Berrien Springs meeting a special message of hope was given for Dr. Kellogg. He might have stood on vantage ground, accepting the Lord Jesus as his counsellor. In and through the power of the Saviour, he might then have broken the spell. But he did not.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 14)
For a long time Dr. Kellogg has not been humbly accepting Christ as his teacher and, unknown to himself, has been taught by the master of sophistries. And the enemy has used him as a channel through which to exert a strong controlling influence upon the physicians associated with him. But the Lord will break the spell that is upon these men if they will allow the yoke that has been placed upon them to be broken.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 15)
Christ gives to all 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.] All who accept His invitation will bear testimony that His yoke is indeed easy and His burden light.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 16)
It means much to our physicians whether they are wearing the yoke of Christ or the yoke of some man. Those who are wearing the yoke that a man has placed on their necks must have this yoke taken away before they can act the part that God would have them act in proclaiming the truth. Those who receive and believe in Christ Jesus are not to wear any man’s yoke; neither are they to be noncommittal in regard to where they stand. The conflict is raging between two powers—the Prince of life and the prince of darkness. This conflict has a vital interest for the people of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 17)
Christ is the greatest teacher that this world has ever seen. Truth never languished upon His lips, never suffered in His hands. He declares, “He that is not with Me is against Me, and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] God has given to every man his work. He expects every follower of His to exert an influence that will tell for the upbuilding of His kingdom. He who is not actively engaged in promoting unity and love and equity and sound principles is exerting an influence that is contrary to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 18)
Those who are true to their divine Leader will put away the masterly sophistries that are coming in to deceive the people. Those who would be saved from the wily, deceptive influences of the foe must now break every yoke and take their position for Christ and for truth, that they may be freed from the specious, fictitious sentiments that, if accepted, will surely spoil their faith and their experience. Unless they obtain this freedom, they will go on step by step in the downward path until they deny Him who has bought them with the price of His own blood.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 19)
The question that is asked us now is, Who will stand on the Lord’s side, in the presence of good and evil men, in the presence of angels, in the presence of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? You can no longer remain neutral, and yet be Christ’s followers, His faithful servants.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 20)
If those who profess to be medical missionaries had stood away from Dr. Kellogg’s seductive sophistries, they would not now be where they are—regarded by God as unfaithful stewards because they have harmonized with the doctor, who is certainly under the enemy’s deceptive influence.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 21)
The cause of God is in great peril, because the physicians in whose minds sophistry has prevailed against truth are bracing themselves against the impressions of the Holy Spirit and are placing themselves where the Lord cannot use them as leaders of His people.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 22)
If Dr. Kellogg had heeded the light given him of God through the testimonies of His Spirit; if he had made God his trust; if he had refused to give any attention to the scientific sophistries that he has been studying more or less for years; if he had followed his Guide, working with an eye single to the glory of God, he would have avoided the many, many crooked paths that he has followed. But in the place of heeding the warning given him, that evil angels were working with him, he has encouraged their presence by continuing to follow a course of transgression.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 23)
*****
No one need be strengthless who is fighting in the army of the Lord, standing under His blood-stained banner. His true soldiers are partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. But those who choose their own way, and keep in correspondence with the great deceiver, are reckoned unworthy of eternal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 24)
Who will take his stand on the Lord’s side? Let him step on to the platform of eternal truth, cutting loose from the seductive influences of the tempter. In the ranks of God’s people there is to be seen a well-doing for Him, a zeal that is according to knowledge.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 25)
“Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on 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 withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the enemy. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” [Ephesians 6:10-17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 26)
*****
Christ was the Son of God. Of this truth He early bore witness. In His youth He felt the obligation resting upon Him to do the work His Father had given Him. When Joseph and Mary found Him in the temple, and asked Him why He had left them, He replied, pointing upward, “Wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business?” [Luke 2:49.] And as He spoke these words, divinity flashed through humanity. Let our ministers and physicians study the life of Christ and learn how He went about his work, what spirit He brought into it, and how He accomplished it with heavenly grace.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 27)
Those who receive Christ as a personal Saviour will work as He worked, following the example left by His life. He has left us a perfect example; and He has given us the assurance, “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.] Let no human name be chosen before the name of Christ. Let no human sophistries be received in the place of His principles. Accept only the teachings of Him who clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this world to redeem fallen human beings. With His long human arm He encircled the race, while with His divine arm He laid hold of the throne of God, thus uniting man to the everlasting Father.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 28)
It is the knowledge of God which inspires the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. As this knowledge is received, the mind is drawn out to God in holy desire. The transformation of human character is the great work which God designed to accomplish by the sacrifice of His only begotten Son. He purposed that thus, by the blood of Christ, fallen human beings should be brought nigh to Him. “It pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell; having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself.” [Colossians 1:19, 20.] By those who seek God in truth, Christ crucified is discerned to be the power of God and the wisdom of God. Through the Word, by the gospel of His Son, God wins the hearts of rebels, who, by yielding to the sophistry of Satan, have become separated from heaven. Through Christ He obtains access to the hearts of those who are out of the way and brings them back to their original faith, to see the goodness and love of God. He brings them nigh, that through His Word they may become acquainted with the Son of God and with the Father. The life of Christ is seen as it is—full of goodness, mercy, and love.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 29)
Thus, through the crucifixion of Christ, human beings are reconciled to God. Christ adopts the outcasts, and they become His special care, members of the family of God, because they have accepted His Son as their Saviour. To them is given power to become the sons of God, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. They gain an intelligent knowledge of what Christ is to them and of the blessings they may receive as members of the Lord’s family. And in His infinite condescension God is pleased to stand to them in the relation of Father.
(19LtMs, Lt 255, 1904, 30)
Lt 256, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California October 1904 Previously unpublished. [Dr. J. H. Kellogg] [The first two pages of this letter are missing.]
A departure from the faith has been working in you for a long time because you would not heed the words of Christ sent to you from the Lord to save your soul. “Follow Me.”Matthew 4:19. “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. “As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”Romans 8:14. “If any man hath not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.”V. 9. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.”2 Corinthians 3:17.
(19LtMs, Lt 256, 1904, 1)
This is the merciful plan of God in giving His only begotten Son that man might through the acceptance of the grace offered serve the Lord “without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him.”Luke 1:74, 75. There is no slavery, no irksomeness or irksome constraint in the service of the believer. It is a service of choice, understanding what the will of the Lord is, a service of the heart, pressing forward in the blessed hope. This will be the presentation exemplified before the world, distinguishing his words, his spirit, his Christlike walk with God from that of others who are under the teachings and leadings of Satan. No soul that has this hope in him toward God will depart from His expressed will or turn from the warnings and the entreaties and the drawing of the Holy Spirit. The great strength of purpose, the comfort of hope and faith and assurance, none but the true child of God can feel. This is a service of love—precious, sanctified, elevated love that enables and uplifts and purifies. It is the service of love and praise and thanksgiving, going forth from heart and lips for His goodness and His precious manifestations of His great grace.
(19LtMs, Lt 256, 1904, 2)
My Brother John Kellogg, shall I be compelled to make known all that the Lord has given me for you in reproof, in encouragement, in warnings that have been by you unheeded? Do you think this has cost me no suffering, no distress? You have certainly made me more suffering through your course of action than I have ever suffered in my experience. I have been robbed of sleep. I have had agony of soul, and now I do not think my life can last long. I have seen distinctly that you have made [such] an atmosphere about your soul that other souls are in peril by being in your presence.
(19LtMs, Lt 256, 1904, 3)
The whole center and circumference of your orbit, with few exceptions, is self. Like the whirlwind you draw in everything within reach. I am pained to the heart. You grasp every advantage which you cling to and retain. You are spiritually deceived, heart, spirit, soul, and flesh and bones. Selfishness reigns. Read 2 Corinthians 6. Oh I beg of you, fall on the Rock and be broken. I know that there is yet hope for you, and I must say, humble your heart before God. Do not defer surrendering your whole heart, soul, strength, and mind to the undoing of that which you have done. Do not defer the surrender of the heart, broken because you put your Saviour to shame—I have something to say on that point, but not yet. John, how could you make your heart so wayward when the Lord Jesus was offering you His blessing, as at Berrien Springs?
(19LtMs, Lt 256, 1904, 4)
Lt 257, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. Takoma Park, Maryland July 27, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in HP 101; 11MR 317-318. + Dr. J. H. Kellogg Dear Brother,—
What is truth? This is a question of the greatest importance to every one living on the earth. We cannot afford to make haphazard movements now; for Satan is using every possible device to betray souls. He is seeking to allure you, that he may successfully play the game of life for your soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 1)
Christ says to you, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] I plead with you to respond to this invitation. You do not understand yourself, because for years a deceptive power has been working upon your mind. You seem unable to understand, because you are determined to solve certain false scientific problems. This has been and is ruining your religious life. Deceptive theories have been received. When you are under their power, darkness seems to you to be light, and you work as an agent of darkness.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 2)
With deepest anxiety I long to see this spiritualistic fog cleared from your senses. You are not living by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. You have not a daily experimental knowledge of the truth. You twist in one way and then in another, dressing your plans in deceptive garments, until your associates, unable to see things clearly, help you onward in a wrong course. God forbid that they shall be forever blind.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 3)
I am at times in an agony of distress for your soul. I must tell you that you are often led by the enemy, that often you are listening to his deceptive presentations. You are captivated by these presentations, and unless your eyes are opened, that you may see whither your feet are tending, you will as surely be deceived as were Adam and Eve in Eden.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 4)
This is a time when Satan’s deceptive power is exercised, not only upon the minds of inexperienced youth, but upon the minds of men and women of mature years. Men in positions of responsibility are in danger of changing leaders. This I know, because it has been plainly revealed to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 5)
Christ never compels men to accept Him or to believe His words. Were He in the Battle Creek Sanitarium in person, He might not be able to lead all to stand on His side, where they could see the terrible deceptive working of the tempter.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 6)
I have been instructed that Satan seeks to link up with men bearing large responsibilities in the Lord’s work, in order that he may fill their minds with evil devisings. Under his influence, men will suggest many things that are contrary to the mind of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 7)
Our physicians, upon whom important responsibilities rest, should have clear spiritual discernment, so that they shall not act like blind men. They are to stand constantly on guard. Dangers that we do not now discern will soon break upon us; and I greatly desire that our physicians shall not be deceived.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 8)
The Lord does not acknowledge the course which you have pursued at our general meetings as pleasing to Him. You may think that you have clothed yourself with the garments of righteousness, but should you come thus clothed to the marriage supper of the Lamb, it would be seen that you have on the dress of a civilian.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 9)
The Lord Jesus was much displeased with your course of action at the General Conference held in Oakland. At one time it was presented to me that evil angels clothed with beautiful garments were escorting you from place to place, inspiring you to speak words of boasting, which were offensive to God. Heavenly messengers were viewing all that took place. They heard the words and witnessed the acts that were of a nature to bring glory to men rather than to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 10)
At this time you were not led by the Spirit of God. Your threats that you would bring the law to bear upon those who crossed your track showed that you were in the same condition as those to whom the Laodicean message is addressed.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 11)
Should I be removed by death, I leave in writing this testimony, that you are not yourself. You are not particular to teach the truth, and unless you are converted you will lead the people of God in strange paths.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 12)
Sometimes you talk for hours when you are in no condition to talk. These long talks are entirely different from the spirit and methods of the great Medical Missionary. At such times you are imbued with a spirit that is utterly opposed to God. The spirit and method of these long talks should not be encouraged. You suppose that your power of speech will accomplish wonderful things, but often your suggestion should be met with the words, “Get thee behind me, Satan; for thou savorest not the things that be of God.” [Mark 8:33.]
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 13)
How many there are who forget that there is a perpetual conflict between the church of God and wicked men who are under the control of evil angels. Till the close of time, God’s people will have to engage in this conflict.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 14)
My soul is so greatly distressed as I see the working out of the plans of the tempter that I cannot express the agony of my mind. Is the church of God always to be confused by the devices of the accuser, when Christ’s warnings are so definite, so plain?
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 15)
Christ, who could read the human heart, displayed at times the authority of His greatness. With burning earnestness and words of terrible severity, He denounced the abominations that He saw in the church and in the world. He would not allow the people to be deceived by false claims to righteousness and sanctity. His scathing rebukes laid open the deceptions.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 16)
I, too, must speak the truth, even thou it cuts men to the quick. The Lord has a controversy with those who make of no effect the testimonies of His Spirit. He is dishonored by those who reject the light given concerning Living Temple, telling you that you have been misjudged.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 17)
The showing at the Battle Creek Sanitarium is not in harmony with the Lord’s design for that institution. I have been instructed that in building so large a sanitarium in Battle Creek, men have followed their own devising. They have not been led by the Lord, but have gone directly contrary to the light that He has given. I write these words in order that the example that has been set in Battle Creek shall not be followed in other places; for it is not in accordance with God’s plan. Instead of so large an institution’s being built in one place, plants should have been made in cities in which there is nothing to represent the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 18)
The Sanitarium at Battle Creek will place in close association a large number of believers and unbelievers. The Lord is calling for separation from the world, but this institution will call for the mingling of our youth with worldlings. This association will bring great temptation to the youth. The genuine work of soul-saving that could be done, were fewer unbelievers gathered together in one place, will be greatly retarded.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 19)
Every believer who constantly realizes his dependence on God has his appointed angel sent from heaven to minister to him. The ministry of these angels is especially essential now; for Satan is making his last desperate effort to secure the world. The movement at Battle Creek is one that will help the enemy to spoil the faith of many. It will tend to destroy the identity of Seventh-day Adventists as the Lord’s peculiar people.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 20)
The enemy will devise many plans to occupy minds and to divert attention from this message. But we are to go forward with our work. The end of all things is at hand. The coming of the Lord in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory, is very near.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 21)
At this time, when wickedness is at its height, ministers of the gospel are crying, “Peace and safety.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Upon those whose minds are thus set at rest, sudden destruction cometh. Unprepared, they shall not escape.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 22)
When Christ comes to gather to Himself those who have been faithful, the last trump will sound, and the whole earth from the summits of the loftiest mountains to the lowest recesses of the deepest mines will hear. The righteous dead will hear the sound of the trump and will come forth from their graves to be clothed with immortality and to meet their Lord. And those who pierced the Saviour, those who scourged and crucified Him, will also be raised, to behold Him whom they mocked and despised, coming in the clouds of heaven, attended by the heavenly host, ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 23)
“The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” [2 Peter 3:10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 24)
This scene has been presented before me as fully as I could bear to behold it. Then the scene has changed, and representations of things existing at the present time have passed before me. I have seen men who have been placed in positions of trust as watchmen, molding and fashioning the work in accordance with worldly policy which God condemns. The medical missionary work is sick and needs the restoring power of the great Healer before it can accomplish a work in harmony with its name.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 25)
“The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly.” [Zephaniah 1:14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 26)
Christ gave His life for the salvation of the world. One place is not to be worked over and over again, while other parts of God’s world are left barren and unworked. God’s only begotten Son gave His life as a propitiation for the sins of the whole world. He who knew no sin was made sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. “Christ also hath loved us,” Paul writes, “and hath given Himself for [us] an offering, and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor.” [Ephesians 5:2.] This He did that we may be all that He desires us to be—representatives of Him, living lives that reveal His fragrance of character, His purity of thought. He died that others, beholding Him, might be led to desire to be like Him—pure and undefiled, wholly acceptable to God, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing.
(19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, 27)
Lt 259, 1904
Union Conference Presidents and Medical Missionaries Nashville, Tennessee June 23, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in BCL 108-110. To Union Conference presidents and leading medical missionaries,—
Before leaving Washington for Berrien Springs, I was instructed upon some points regarding the work at Battle Creek. In the night season I was shown a meeting. Dr. Kellogg was speaking, and he was filled with enthusiasm regarding his subject. His associate physicians and ministers of the gospel were present. The subject upon which he was speaking was life and the relation of God to all living things. In his presentation he cloaked the matter somewhat, but in reality he was presenting scientific theories which are akin to pantheism. He presented them as being of the highest value.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 1)
After looking upon the pleased, interested countenances of those who were listening, One by my side told me that the evil angels had taken captive the mind of the speaker. He said that we were to stand as guardians of the churches, but that we were on no account to enter into discussion on these subjects with those who hold pantheistic theories. He said that just as surely as the angels who fell were seduced and deceived by Satan, so surely was the speaker under the spiritualistic education of evil angels.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 2)
I was astonished to see with what enthusiasm the sophistries and deceptive theories were received. The influence of this talk gave him encouragement to call for a council of our brethren at Battle Creek for a further examination of these seducing sentiments.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 3)
I was bidden to warn our people on no account to send their children to Battle Creek to receive an education, because these delusive scientific theories would be presented in the most seducing forms. The matter has been working in the minds of some, till they think they are to be channels to infuse other minds with great light regarding scientific problems. They will be led to take words and sentiments from my books and present them as being in harmony with their theories.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 4)
I am bidden to tell our ministers to enter into no discussion over these theories. Let them alone. When engaged in discussion over these theories, their advocates will take words spoken to oppose them and will make them appear to mean the very opposite of that which the speaker intended them to mean. Some have been studying these matters for a long time and are prepared to present them and to lead souls to adopt them. I am now commissioned to tell our people to beware.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 5)
The long night interviews which Dr. Kellogg holds are one of his most effective means of gaining his point. His constant stream of talk confuses the minds of those he is seeking to influence. He misstates and misquotes words and places those who argue with him in so false a light that their powers of discernment are benumbed. He takes their words and gives them an impress which makes them seem to mean exactly the opposite of what they said.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 6)
If permitted, the evil angels will work the minds of men until they have no mind or will of their own. They are led as the angels cast out from heaven were led. Under Satan’s influence these angels uttered sentiments directly opposed to loyalty to God. Thus the family in heaven became corrupted.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 7)
God has given him opportunity after opportunity to place himself on vantage ground. As his feet were slipping down a precipice, Christ grasped his hands, saying, “Do not struggle. Hold fast to Me.” This the Saviour has done again and again, to save him from making shipwreck of the faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 8)
At the Berrien Springs meeting the Lord showed Dr. Kellogg special favor. God gave me power to present messages of admonition and encouragement. The two forces met, the satanic influences and the influence of Christ. But Satan fought hard to hold his advantage, and Dr. Kellogg is now in a more dangerous condition than before the meeting. Every ray of light rejected leaves him more surely fastened in Satan’s toils.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 9)
I have no charge to make, no judgments of my own to give. I speak the word of the Lord. Our people are not to become entangled with Dr. Kellogg in sanitariums which are to be established or in sanitariums that have already been established. As a people we are to make sure that the Lord’s money is invested wisely. We are not to take on any additional burden of debt unless it is made plain that we should do this.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 10)
Let the world go into spiritualism, into theosophy, into pantheism, if they choose. We are to have nothing to do with this deceptive branch of Satan’s work. The pleasing sentiments of pantheism will lead many souls into forbidden paths. God forbids His servants to leave their fields of labor to enter into a discussion of these sentiments. The last testimony published opens to our people the danger of these theories, and the testimonies published in the future will urge still more strongly the necessity of lifting up and carrying high the banner on which are inscribed the words, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] God’s people are to let no one take this banner from their hands. I am instructed that false theories will be presented, and that some in the medical missionary work, who have been wavering, will yield up the faith and give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 11)
The only hope for our people now is to take their stand on the true foundation. Higher and still higher they are to raise the banner of truth. Not for one moment are they to give place to the enemy.
(19LtMs, Lt 259, 1904, 12)
Lt 261, 1904
Physicians and Ministers Nashville, Tennessee June 1904 Previously unpublished. + To physicians and ministers,—
“Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write: These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks: I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars; and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name’s sake hast labored, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 1)
“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 which 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 on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. 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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 2)
“And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write: These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God: I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot; I would thou wert cold or 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. As many as I love I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore, and repent.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 3)
“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 sat down with My Father in His throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” [Verses 14-22.]
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 4)
Had God’s people lived up to all the light they have received, standing firm in their integrity, and striving with united efforts to advance God’s cause, thousands upon thousands would have been converted, and the message of warning would have been proclaimed to the world. Our adversaries would have been put to shame; for it would have been seen what the grace of God can accomplish. But the door has been opened to Satan’s devising, and God’s Spirit has been sorely grieved. Pride of heart has been cherished, and self-exaltation has made the church weak and strengthless.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 5)
The Laodicean message must be given just as it is. It must be given as a message from heaven. It must be given with earnestness and power. If it be ignored, the Lord will certainly cast away from Him those whose spiritual condition is so objectionable. Christ declares that pretentious piety is nauseating to Him. To the ones so full of self-sufficiency He says, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot.” [Verse 15.] Their works are opposed to the holy principles of God’s Word.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 6)
My brethren and sisters, will you take heed to the Word of the Lord? Will you listen to His rebuke? If, after men in responsible positions have been warned and reproved by the Lord, they continue to follow their own way, affliction will come upon them. God chastens them, giving them opportunity after opportunity to repent. If they utterly refuse to repent, and are determined to listen to the sophistries of the father of lies and follow his principles in their daily lives, they are left to their own course of action and will surely perish in their sins; for God will not be trifled with. Sufficient light and evidence will be given to every soul. If men are overcome by the enemy, it will be because they have hardened their hearts, refusing to hear the voice of God. Will men hear the word of the Lord, or will they through yielding to temptation refuse to hear, until it becomes impossible for them to discern between good and evil?
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 7)
Some of our medical men have been learning lessons that will prove to be their eternal ruin, unless they earnestly seek the Lord. They need to purify their hearts through obeying the truth. A reformation is needed in their lives. Physicians need to set the Lord ever before them, carrying the lamp of life with them wherever they go, or else Satan will use their scientific knowledge to lead them astray. The purest, most Christlike influences must control their lives, else the enemy will lead them to believe that the end justifies the means, and they will do strange things that will make the God of heaven ashamed of them. They will sacrifice principle in order to obtain their desires and will endeavor to bring into the work of God the method of worldlings.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 8)
When physicians do this, God says of them, “You have sold the truth, and you must reap the displeasure of heaven. Unless you change, the gates of the holy city will be closed against you. Nothing that you can do has sufficient power to sanctify an unrighteous action.”
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 9)
If there be first a willing mind, a way to the sanctuary will be found. But those whose hearts are humble and contrite would not engage in the work that for years has been done in Battle Creek, a work of accusing and condemning of the brethren, and especially of the ministers. It is the powerful influence of the great deceiver that has led to this work.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 10)
When men and women realize their own weakness and their entire dependence upon God, a standard of Christianity very different from that which now appears will be seen. God is love. His nature is revealed in His holy law, which is an expression of His love. Let us rejoice that the high and holy One, that inhabiteth eternity, whose ways are from everlasting to everlasting, changes not. With Him there is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 11)
“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 12)
“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” [Ephesians 4:1-3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 13)
“Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children; 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, and 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. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of God and of Christ.” [Ephesians 5:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 14)
We shall pass through trials, but let none become accusers of the brethren. For years the work of accusing has been going on, to the hindrance of God’s cause. Let ministers and physicians confess their own sins, and leave God to deal with the sins of their brethren. Shall we not come into right relation with God? A spirit of criticism, of recrimination, of accusation has been cherished for years. Is it not time to let this spirit be put away? Go to the one whom you think has erred, and speak words that will show him that you are controlled by the Spirit of Christ. The religion of Christ, revealed in the lives of His followers, is a power for good, leading unbelievers to see that God sent His Son into the world to save sinners.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 15)
There are a great many things that are weakening the church and spoiling the characters of those after whose names the angels long to write a record of good words and righteous deeds.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 16)
There are those who are dishonoring God by forming unchristlike characters. Their course of action robs the church of courage and endangers their own souls. Those who depart from the faith need the forgiveness of the great Medical Missionary, because they have hurt His precious truth and dishonored it before the world. Their course has led unbelievers to argue that the religion of Christ is not free from defects.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 17)
Let every one be on guard in regard to his own words and actions. My brethren and sisters, let your words be such that you would not be ashamed to repeat them were Christ standing in person before you. Speak words that will help others in their character-building. We are living in the last days of this earth’s history. I entreat our physicians and ministers to give earnest heed to the admonition to keep guard over their own souls. In the place of watching others, looking for something to condemn, watch yourselves. Guard your lips, that they speak not words that will bring strife and discord. Those who are careless of their words will sow seeds of evil that will spring up and bear an abundant harvest.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 18)
I call upon our church members to work for the prosperity of the church. In the place of talking of the defects of others, closely examine yourselves in the light of the Word of God. Deal critically with yourselves. Seek the Lord most earnestly, asking Him to cleanse you from sin. We are laborers together with God. Then work and pray. Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God which worketh in you. You must follow where He guides; else you will make mistakes and lead others astray.
(19LtMs, Lt 261, 1904, 19)
Lt 263, 1904
Our Leading Physicians Washington, D. C. July 24, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 1SM 193-198. + To our leading physicians Dear fellow workers,—
I am awakened at eleven o’clock. The representations passing before me are so vivid that I cannot sleep. The word of the Lord has come to me that there is a decided work to be done in warning our medical missionaries against the dangers and perils that surround them.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 1)
The Lord calls upon those connected with our sanitariums to reach a higher standard. No lie is of the truth. If we follow cunningly devised fables, we unite with the enemy’s forces against God and Christ. God calls upon those who have been wearing the yoke of human manufacture to break this yoke and no longer be bound up with delusive sophistries.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 2)
The battle is now on. Satan and his angels are working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness. They are untiring in their efforts to draw souls away from the truth, away from righteousness, to spread ruin throughout the universe. They work with marvelous industry to furnish a multitude of deceptions to take souls captive. Their efforts are unceasing. The enemy is ever seeking to lead souls into skepticism and infidelity. He would do away with God and with Christ, who was made flesh and dwelt among us, to teach us that in obedience to God’s will we may be victorious over sin.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 3)
Every form of evil is waiting for an opportunity to assail us. Flattery, bribes, inducement, promises of wonderful exaltation will be most assiduously employed.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 4)
What are God’s churches doing to raise the barrier of a “Thus saith the Lord” against this evil? The enemy’s agents are working unceasingly to prevail against the truth. Where are the faithful guardians of the Lord’s flock? Where are His watchmen? Are they standing on the high tower, giving the danger signal, or are they allowing the peril to pass on unheeded? Where are the medical missionaries? Are they co-workers with Christ, wearing His yoke, or are they wearing a yoke of human manufacture?
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 5)
Satan and his angels are making every effort to obtain control of minds, that men may be swayed by falsehood and pleasing fables. Are our physicians lifting the danger signal? Are the men who have been placed in prominent positions in our sanitariums lifting the danger signal? Are many of the watchmen asleep, while mischievous tongues and acute minds, sharpened by long practice in evading the truth, are continually at work to bring in confusion and to carry out plans instigated by the enemy?
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 6)
Will the men in our institutions keep silent, allowing insidious fallacies to be promulgated to the ruin of souls? The sentiments of the enemy are being scattered everywhere. Seeds of discord, of unbelief, of infidelity, are being scattered broadcast. Shall our medical missionaries raise no barrier against this evil? Is it not time that we asked ourselves, Shall we allow the adversary to lead us to give up the work of proclaiming the truth? Shall we allow him to keep us from being channels through which the blessings of the gospel, as a current of life, shall flow to the world? Let every man now arouse and work as he has opportunity. Let him speak words in season and out of season and look to Christ for encouragement and strength in well-doing.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 7)
The dangers coming upon us are continually increasing. It is high time that we put on the whole armor of God and worked to keep Satan from gaining any further advantage.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 8)
Angels of God, that excel in strength, are waiting for us to call them to our aid, that our faith may not be eclipsed by the fierceness of the conflict. Renewed energy is now needed. Vigilant action is called for. Indifference and sloth will result in the loss of personal religion and of heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 9)
At this time the Laodicean message is to be given to arouse a slumbering church. Let the thought of the shortness of time stimulate you to earnest, untiring effort. Remember that Satan has come down with great power, to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 10)
For years our physicians have been trained to think that they must not give expression to sentiments that differ from those of Dr. Kellogg. O that they had broken the yoke! O that they had called sin by its right name! Then they would not be regarded in the heavenly courts as men who, though bearing weighty responsibilities, have failed of speaking the truth in reproof of that which has been in disobedience to God’s Word.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 11)
Physicians, have you been doing your Master’s business in listening to fanciful and spiritualistic interpretations of the Scriptures, that undermine the foundations of our faith, and holding your peace? God says, “Neither will I be with you any more, unless you awake and vindicate your Redeemer.”
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 12)
My message to you is, You should no longer consent to listen without protest to the perversion of the truth. Unmask the pretentious sophistries that, if received, will lead ministers and physicians and medical missionary workers to ignore the truth. Every one is now to stand on guard. God calls upon men and women to take their stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. I have been instructed to warn our people; for many are in danger of receiving theories and sophistries that undermine the foundation pillars of the faith. We cannot accept as present truth the theories and explanations made by Dr. Kellogg; for it is not a true presentation.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 13)
Sometimes Dr. Kellogg talks for hours when he is weary and perplexed and in no fit condition to talk. Medical missionaries should refuse to hold long night sessions of conversation. These night talks have been times when Satan, with his seductive influence, has stolen away from one and then another the faith once delivered to the saints. Brilliant, sparkling ideas will often flash from the mind that is worked by the great deceiver. Those who listen and acquiesce will become charmed, as Eve was charmed by the serpent’s words. You cannot listen to these charming sophistries and at the same time keep a “Thus saith the Lord” in your mind.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 14)
Be not deceived; many will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. We have now before us the alpha of this danger. The omega will be of a most startling nature.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 15)
We need to study the words that Christ uttered in the prayer that He offered just before His trial and crucifixion. “These words spake Jesus, and lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify Thy Son, that Thy Son also may glorify Thee. As Thou hast given Him power over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as Thou hast given Him. And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent. I have glorified Thee on the earth; I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was. I have manifested Thy name unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world. Thine they were, and Thou gavest them Me; and they have kept Thy word.” [John 17:1-6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 16)
The righteousness of God is absolute. This righteousness characterizes all His works, all His laws. As God is, so must His people be. He that doeth righteousness is righteous. The life of Christ is to be revealed in the lives of His followers. In all His private and public acts, in every word and deed, a practical godliness was seen, and this godliness is to be seen in the lives of His disciples.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 17)
Had Dr. Kellogg heeded the light given him, he would have brought the virtues of the character of Christ into his life. Christ manifested no sin, because there was no sin in Him. God has shown me that the lives of believers are to reveal practical righteousness. Confess and forsake your sins. Then you will have a transformed character.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 18)
Our physicians have lost a great deal out of their lives, because they have seen wrong transactions and heard wrong words spoken and seen many principles followed and have not spoken in reproof for fear that they would be repulsed.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 19)
I call upon those who have been connected with Dr. Kellogg as his associate physicians to break the yoke to which they have long submitted, and stand as free men in Christ. Nothing but a determined struggle will break the spell that is upon them.
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 20)
Has not God spoken in His Word concerning the solemn events which must shortly take place? As you read these things, do you believe what He says? Or have you, through listening to the specious sophistry, given up your faith in God? Can any man avert the punishment that must come upon you unless you humble your hearts before God and confess your sins? How is it, my brethren in the medical missionary work? Does not the living God speak to you from His Word concerning the events that are taking place in fulfilment of that Word? Soon the last great reckoning with men will take place. Have your lives been such that you can then be weighed in the balances of the sanctuary and not be found wanting? Has your faith been molded and restricted until it has become unbelief? Has your obedience to men become rebellion against God? “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.” [2 Corinthians 13:5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 263, 1904, 21)
Lt 265, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma Washington, D. C. July 21, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear children Edson and Emma,—
I am not very strong, but will write you a few lines. I hope that I shall soon feel better and will be able to add to what I can now write.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 1)
I am anxious to hear how you have come out in your transactions regarding exchange of property. Do not worry about these matters. The Lord will certainly manifest Himself to those who commit their souls to His keeping. The meek will He guide in judgment. He is our hope and our crown of rejoicing. I believe that it is right for you to move into the country, and that the future will prove this to be true. But you must follow the way of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 2)
I have written to several people, asking for a loan of a thousand dollars. In one case I was one day too late with my request. The day before my letter reached the sister, the money had been lent to Dr. Paulson. But I know that he needs the money, and I will not even wish that I had written sooner and obtained the loan.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 3)
In regard to the colored sanitarium, I wish to say, Do not enter into any arrangement just now for purchasing the building. I can not endure the thought of investing three thousand dollars in this building. I am sure that better prospects can be found for a colored sanitarium. Some place can be secured where the surroundings are more healthful and pleasant.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 4)
I wish that the Boscobel school buildings might be secured for the work of the white sanitarium. Do you know of anything that stands in the way of their purchase? If you do, I wish you would mention it in your next letter.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 5)
I am deeply interested in the work in Huntsville and shall do all I can to strengthen those who carry the burden of the work there.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 6)
You need not be surprised to hear that I have returned to California. I am not gaining strength very fast here, and I know that the book on which Marian is working needs my attention. I desire, however, to remain for a time and help the workers here, if my health will permit.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 7)
The work on the buildings here is progressing very nicely. We feel thankful that we have been able to secure the services of so many excellent workmen. Our brethren have found favorable opportunities to secure lumber at very low prices. After the Baltimore fire, large quantities of lumber were shipped there. So much was sent that the supply exceeded the demand, and several shiploads were sent to Washington. It lay on the wharves for some time, until the owners became tired of paying wharfage and were willing to let us have the lumber for less than the market price. By this transaction we saved more than one thousand dollars. Yesterday Brother Needham told me that they had secured another lot of lumber very cheap. I am grateful to our heavenly Father for every such favor.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 8)
Evangelical lines of work are being carried forward here in Washington. There are two tents pitched in the city, where meetings are held each evening. Last Sabbath I spoke in the Takoma Park Hall. I was very feeble, but the Lord strengthened me. Next Sunday I am to speak again, in the same place.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 9)
July 25, 1904
I have been looking every day for some word from you, hoping to hear something favorable in regard to your exchange of property. When you have anything to tell, write to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 10)
Yesterday the Lord greatly strengthened me. I spoke in the Takoma Park Hall. The room was well filled. I looked upon pleasant and attentive countenances, as I spoke from the third chapter of the first epistle of John: “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” [Verse 1.] As I dwelt upon the infinite sacrifice of Christ, the people seemed almost to hold their breath with interest. I long to speak of the love of God to large congregations.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 11)
We are planning with the strictest economy in regard to our work here. Some thought that this house in which we are now staying should be purchased for a sanitarium if it could be obtained for ten thousand dollars. The owners now ask fifteen thousand for it. But even were this house bought, other buildings would have to be put up, and altogether it would cost quite a large sum. After carefully considering the question, we have decided to carry out our original plan and build the sanitarium on the same land as the school. We may, however, rent this building for a time, to use temporarily; but we will invest the ten thousand dollars that will be needed to purchase it in the erection of a building on the land already purchased.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 12)
I have not lost my interest in the work in the Southern field, but I am so weak that I cannot do much just now. Be assured that we will do our best to help you. I am trying to keep up my writings, but have to stop and rest frequently.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 13)
July 26, 1904
It is the privilege of every Christian to know the blessing of having the Lord Jesus as his burden-bearer. “I had fainted unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say, on the Lord.” [Psalm 27:13, 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 14)
“Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of Thy waterspouts; all Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over Me.” The psalmist was filled with awe, but with faith and confidence in God he continues, “Yet the Lord will command His loving kindness in the daytime, and in the night His song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.... Why art thou cast down, O my soul, and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” [Psalm 42:7, 8, 11.]
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 15)
Each morning those who are working on the buildings assemble in the large room just below mine for worship and counsel together. Some one reads a passage of Scripture, and then there is singing and prayer. Then I speak for a few minutes, and then we go to breakfast. I have been asked to speak every morning, but I am not always strong enough to. We have a goodly number of workmen here, and these little meetings seem to do them good. Their boarding house is just across the road from us.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 16)
Next Sabbath I expect to speak in the colored church. I have spoken three times in the new church and once in the mixed church, and now I must speak in Brother Sheafe’s church. If I am able, I will speak again in Takoma Hall next Sunday. On Monday I expect to take the cars for Melrose, where I shall stay for a week or two, and take treatment. I am rather weak, but I will try to speak here as often as I can; for I may never bear my testimony in Washington again.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 17)
The night before last I awoke with a feeling as if some one were trying to crush the life out of my body. I tried to rise, but the pressure was so great that I could scarcely breathe. I called upon the Lord for deliverance, and I felt the power of His Spirit upon me. I knew that He had answered my prayer, and I soon fell asleep. Since this experience I have been feeling stronger and have held precious communion with God.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 18)
Edson, do not make any extensive improvements on the colored sanitarium. When the buildings that are talked of are erected, there will be even less light in the sanitarium than there is now, and I believe the Lord will show you some better place.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 19)
I am so thankful for the good news that has come from Southern California, that there is every prospect of securing a new brick building, nine miles from Los Angeles, for a sanitarium. This building was put up for a hotel, but has never been occupied. It has fifty rooms. It was first offered to us for thirty-six thousand dollars, but the price has been lowered little by little until now it is offered for twelve thousand.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 20)
I must now close. May God bless and guide you is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 21)
Your mother.
(19LtMs, Lt 265, 1904, 22)
Lt 267, 1904
Hayward, Brother Washington, D. C. July 24, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 50. Dear Brother Hayward,—
I would be pleased to know how you and Brother Hansen are progressing with the negotiations regarding the lease of the Boscobel school buildings. I cannot get this matter out of my mind. I wish you could lease those buildings. If you can get them at a reasonable price, I would lease them by all means, with the understanding that you can purchase them if you please.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 1)
Since returning to Washington, I have been very weak physically. The first Sabbath after reaching here, I did not go out at all. I did not feel strong enough to speak. On Sunday, July 17, I spoke in the M Street Memorial Church to the workers who have gathered in Washington to hold a tent-meeting and to do Bible work. Last Sabbath and the Sabbath before, I spoke to our people in Takoma Hall. Last Sunday I spoke in the same hall to a very interesting congregation of the Takoma Park citizens. They all seemed to be much interested.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 2)
Last night I was awakened before eleven o’clock to listen to words that must be spoken to our churches. I wrote many pages and at four o’clock lay down for a little while.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 3)
I expect to go to Melrose soon, to stay at the Sanitarium for a while. The workers here feel loath to have us go, but there are other interests to which we must attend.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 4)
The work here is moving forward in clear lines. It was important that we should be here to help the workers in council. In the work that is done on the buildings, no money is to be expended for display. The buildings are to be plain and modest. A mammoth sanitarium is not to be erected; for this is not to be a modern Jerusalem. We have told the workers this plainly. We cannot expend all the means in one place. We must make careful, economical plans.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 5)
Fortunately for our work, our brethren here have been able to purchase a large assignment of lumber for a low price. This lumber was sent to Baltimore after the fire, but the supply was greater than the demand, and it was shipped to Washington. The owners became tired of paying wharfage, and our brethren were able to purchase some of it at less than the market price. One thousand dollars was saved by this transaction.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 6)
In closing, I will ask you again to let me know in regard to the lease of the Boscobel school, that we may know how to help you in your plans. If you should not succeed in getting this place, how would it do to build on part of the land that has been purchased for school purposes? We thought that perhaps a colored school might be put on part of the land, but we learn that this would not work. The matter would be spoken of in the papers in a way that would create prejudice.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 7)
Please tell me how you are getting along. I felt sorry that we could not do more to help you while we were in Nashville. But you are not forgotten. We hope that you will be of good courage. You are in great need of better accommodation for your work, and the Lord will surely open the way for you.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 8)
Your sister in Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 267, 1904, 9)
Lt 269, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. Berrien Springs, Michigan May 22, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 11MR 316-317. Dr. J. H. Kellogg Dear Brother,—
I wish to write you a few lines. Oh, how my soul is grieved on your account, because you are standing where you now are. But you will not stand there long; you will make some change in your present position. I am now bidden to say to you, You may now come to the Saviour. Your opportunity is here. At the General Conference held in Battle Creek in 1901, the Lord in the testimonies borne in the tabernacle pointed out the way that you were to follow, but you did not choose to follow it. At one time, after the Conference held at South Lancaster, you broke down, and you did see your self, but in none too strong a light. Had you then kept the repentance that needeth not to be repented of, you would have boldly taken your stand under the banner of Jesus Christ. But it is not natural for you to yield, and you cherished a stubborn determination to carry out your own will and way. You would not yield to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. You kept yourself under your own control, devising first one plan and then another plan and working against the Lord’s plans.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 1)
At the General Conference of 1901 you were once more invited by the Lord to return to Him, and you started on your way to do a good work. But you were still influenced by another power, to which you had often submitted. The experience through which you have passed has been of a kind hard to define; but as you have walked in the light of the sparks of your own kindling, you were really under the leadership of the adversary. You have been receiving spiritualistic, fanciful ideas from the father of lies. You can not break away from his binding power until you make an entire surrender to the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 2)
You may inquire, What is a man to do who is desirous of breaking the spell of Satan’s power? Become truly penitent, and confess your backsliding. Of yourself you have no power to overcome. Your only hope is to break the spell. You must die to your ambitious desire to do great things. You must be born again. Earnest prayer to Christ for unison with your brethren would bring to you power from above to break the spell. But the spell can never be broken by you alone. You have given yourself up to the seductive teachings of the enemy, thinking that you were in the light, and you have not yet broken the spell. You are not to confine yourself to prayer, but working with your prayers are to make decided efforts to correct that which is wrong.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 3)
You have spoiled your record, and you will continue to spoil it until you change counsellors and take your stand wholly and humbly on the Lord’s side. If you could leave your work in the charge of some other physician, and go away from Battle Creek for some months, with some one who understands your danger, you might break the spell. But this seems to be an impossibility. You do not realize the danger of your condition. Strenuous work must be done in renouncing very much of that which you have called principle, but which has its origin in the desire to control. You must break with yourself; for you are not a safe teacher or guide for yourself. A power holds you with a vice-like grip—a power which nothing can break but the power of your Redeemer. Renounce every evil method and flee into the arms of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 4)
If you could see your peril, you might be helped, but a deceptive power holds you captive. Break the spell through belief in Christ. Place yourself under the shield of His protection. Lay hold of His power. This is your only hope.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 5)
Repentance and brokenness of heart, as well as forgiveness, are procured only through the atoning sacrifice of Christ. You need to be in association with those who are constantly receiving a rich measure of the power of God. By casting your helpless soul on Christ, you will place yourself where He can work for you with His renovating power. Christ pardons none but the penitent. By His Holy Spirit He works upon mind and heart until He makes the soul penitent, and then pardon comes.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 6)
You have a work to do for yourself that no one can do for you. Yield yourself to Christ: yield fully: yield without reserve. I call upon you to throw back upon the originator of sin the spell that he has cast upon you. I call upon you to put to the tax every spiritual energy in the effort to escape from the snare. Follow right principles in dealing with yourself. You are not your own; you have been bought with a price, and you are to give to God that which is His own—the service of all your powers. You are to glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are His.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 7)
You have a decided part to act in gaining your own salvation through the merits of the blood of a crucified Redeemer. Activity in the right direction is to be shown. Your time is precious. Overcome the pride that would keep you from yielding to Christ. He alone, formed within the hope of glory, will enable you to wrestle successfully. Your way is not God’s way. Your character is in need of a decided change.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 8)
The light that Christ gives reveals the desires and inclinations that must be manfully resisted and overcome. Make a desperate effort to escape. Confess your sins. The promise is that Christ is faithful and just to forgive your sins and to cleanse you from all unrighteousness. You can repent with the help of the Saviour.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 9)
I am moved by the Spirit of God to tell you to break with the powers of darkness. Come to Jesus. Make wrongs right, even though this takes an effort that would seem to dissolve human nature. Take yourself in hand, and go straight to Jesus, your invisible Mediator. Go in spite of the opposition of the flesh. Resist every inclination to draw back. Make the break. Die to self. Then you will be able to say, “I thought on my ways, and turned my feet to Thy testimonies.” [Psalm 119:59.] I know your piety and early devotion. I know that you have backslidden, and I urge you to repent. Unless you do this, the message is, “I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of its place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:5.] Thou hast lost thy first love, lost thy love for Christ, and hast become lukewarm. There has not been a proper acknowledgement of this on your part, because a man that is spiritually blind cannot see.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 10)
My soul has not ceased to yearn for the salvation of your soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 269, 1904, 11)
Lt 271, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. Washington, D. C. July 29, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 12MR 62; 5Bio 349. Dr. J. H. Kellogg Dear Brother,—
I will in the name of the Lord make a solemn appeal to you. As a sinner you have a case pending in the courts of heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 1)
By the power given to me at the General Conference held in Oakland, and at the Union Conference recently held in Berrien Springs, it is evident that He designed that a transforming work should be wrought upon hearts. You might have gone from the Berrien Springs meeting a very different man had you understood the real situation, had you realized that Satan in a masterly way was playing the game of life for your soul. Had you seen your peril as it was presented to me, you would have fallen on the Rock and been broken. Your only hope is to fall on the Rock. If you do not, it will fall on you, and will break you beyond remedy.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 2)
He who has given His life for you, that you might be saved through faith in His name, is at the right hand of God, still interceding for you. He is the only one who can avail as your intercessor. But He will soon give into the hands of the angels around His throne the vials of His wrath, with the commission to pour them out upon His rebellious subjects in this world, until everything that is opposed to the principles of God’s government shall have been consumed. But He is still standing at the altar of incense, presenting the prayers of His saints. Thus it was presented to me at the Berrien Springs meeting.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 3)
In this meeting every one present should have been confessing his own sins instead of speaking of personal grievances and charging others with guilt. God was dishonored in this meeting. Had you been worked by the Holy Spirit, you would have come to the front, when Hiland Butler was challenging Elder Daniells for a change of attitude, and would have said, “Brother Butler, you are out of your place. I have confessions to make before God and before Christ, who died for me, and before man. I will now humble my heart before the Lord and no longer submit to the ruling power of the accuser. I declare that the hope of eternal life with Christ in His kingdom, as I once believed it, is worth more to every soul than all that can be obtained by justifying self and denouncing others. If God will break the spell that for years has been gathering about my soul, I will be willing to work in any position to which He may assign me. I must have heaven, even though it be at the loss of all else.”
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 4)
Had you done this, Dr. Kellogg, you would have stood a free man in Christ. Things would have been adjusted. The Lord would have pardoned your transgressions. Bonds of unity would have been formed with your brethren, and there would have been rejoicing in heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 5)
Those who interposed to call attention to themselves little realized the advantage they were giving the enemy. Oh, if poor, weak, erring self had been kept out of the experience, how different the result would have been!
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 6)
It now rests with you yourself to decide whether in the future you will be under the guardianship of heavenly angels or of satanic agencies.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 7)
Do you realize how the Lord Jesus regards your boastings that you and your supporters did not confess, but that it was Elder Prescott who made confession? All this is written in the book that will be opened in the last great day, when every man will be judged according to the deeds done in the body.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 8)
These words were given me to give to you: “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 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. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” [1 John 1:5-10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 9)
“It is Christ that died” is an argument that cannot be refuted. [Romans 8:34.] To it nothing can be added. To the repentant soul it is Yea and Amen. Christ leads the penitent soul upward step by step and gives to the mind His peace. “If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” [1 John 1:9.] Angels of God guard the penitent, believing soul, that evil angels may not intrude.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 10)
I was listening to words spoken by God’s servants in their humiliation. They were working out their own salvation with fear and trembling.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 11)
Daniel was a man greatly beloved of God, but he did not say, “I did not confess.”“I set my face unto the Lord God,” he says, “and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping covenant and mercy to them that love Him, and to them that keep His commandments; we have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from Thy precepts and from Thy judgments; neither have we harkened unto Thy servants the prophets, which spake in Thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto Thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day.” [Daniel 9:3-7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 12)
“In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing was true, but the time appointed was long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding of the vision. In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine into my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.... I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz: His body also was like the beryl, and His face as the appearance of lightning, and His eyes were as lamps of fire, and His arms and His feet like in color to polished brass, and the voice of His words like the voice of a multitude.... And there remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength. Yet I heard the voice of His word: and when I heard the voice of His words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 13)
“And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon the palms of my hands. And He said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when He had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling. Then said He unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.... Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for the vision is for many days. And when He had spoken such words unto me, I set my face toward the ground, and became dumb. And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth and spake, and said unto Him that stood before me, O my Lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength. For how can the servant of this my Lord talk with this my Lord? for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there breath left in me.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 14)
“And there came again and touched me One like the appearance of a man, and He strengthened me, and said, O man greatly beloved, fear not; peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when He had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my Lord speak; for Thou hast strengthened me.” [Daniel 10:1-3, 5, 6, 8-12, 14-19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 15)
It is the man who has humbled himself, and whom God has honored, who understands what true greatness is. In the sight of God exalted position does not amount to anything; it is righteousness and truth that give honor to the man. God calls for sensible men who will walk before Him in humility and with contrition of heart confess their sins and receive forgiveness. Not far hence the ruin of souls now being accomplished, because men have refused to confess their sins, will be far from a boasting matter.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 16)
This Scripture was repeated to you:
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 17)
“The good man is perished out of the earth; and there is none upright among men; they all lie in wait for blood; they hunt every man his brother with a net. That they may do evil with both hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge asketh for a reward; and the great man, he uttereth his mischievous desire; so they wrap it up. The best of them is as a brier; the most upright is sharper than a thorn hedge; the day of thy watchmen and thy visitation cometh; now shall be their perplexity.” [Micah 7:2-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 18)
It does not make a man a Christian to have his name on the church books. Christ says of His people, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] But the light does not originate with themselves. Their light comes from heaven. “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” [2 Corinthians 4:6.] This light is a heavenly principle, to be carried out in every phase of the religious experience. Love for God is definite and positive in its action and puts into the heart of men an unselfish love for his fellow beings. It leads him to set a noble, Christlike example. It is a heavenly gift, and is always at work, leading its possessor to pattern after Christ. This love is shown in discipleship. “If any man will come after Me,” said Jesus, “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.] Christ’s love was enduring. It came from God and enabled Him to endure sacrifice and privation that God might be glorified.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 19)
Let physicians and ministers remember that true righteousness bears fruit that is a blessing to others. God would have His people at this time in a repentant, contrite state of mind, confessing their sins and asking forgiveness. This is the work of preparation that we are to do for His coming. As did the children of Israel in the typical day of atonement, we are to stand before Him, confessing our sins. No one needs to be ashamed to say, “I have done wrong. I have made a mistake. I have sinned.”
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 20)
I am given a decided message to bear to all our medical missionaries. For a long time you have been losing a sense of the exalted virtues of a Christian life. You have been bolstering yourselves up in self-righteousness. You have listened to deceptive, subtle reasonings and human sophistries. Will you now clear the King’s highway by taking yourselves in hand and seeking the Lord? Will you confess your sins as did Daniel? Never, never regard it as a virtue to be able to say, “I did not confess.”
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 21)
Was it because you had naught to confess that you could say this? Oh no, no, no! The boastful and unrepentant man by his attitude is closing the gates of the Holy City against himself.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 22)
The day of test and trial is upon us. Every man’s character is being weighed. Examine yourself and discern what kind of a conscience you have. Examine and see if your theology, your religion is a mixture of odds and ends, arranged to serve your own purpose.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 23)
Now, just now, is the great day of preparation. We have no time to serve in Satan’s ranks. Already many have learned to follow false methods, but may the Lord help us so to confess our sins that they will go beforehand to judgment, that when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord, these sins may be blotted out.
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 24)
“These things write I unto ye 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.” [1 John 2:1-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 271, 1904, 25)
Lt 273, 1904
Sutherland, E. A.; Magan, P. T. Takoma Park, Maryland July 28, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 50. Dear Brethren Sutherland and Magan,—
I have just received and read your letter. We have all been very busy, and I am nearly worn out with the burdens I have borne. It is well that we are here; for we know that some perplexing questions have been decided in the right way. I hope to write you more fully a little later.
(19LtMs, Lt 273, 1904, 1)
We shall not, here in Washington, expend large sums of money in purchasing land and erecting expensive buildings. We are here for no such purpose. The instruction I have received is that our sanitarium and school buildings are to be moderate in size.
(19LtMs, Lt 273, 1904, 2)
Some of our brethren thought it would be well to purchase the property that we are now renting, as in some respects it seems desirable for a sanitarium. For some reasons I also thought that it might be well. But we would have to pay twelve thousand dollars and perhaps more for the house and land. The same money could be expended to better advantage in putting up suitable buildings on the land already purchased.
(19LtMs, Lt 273, 1904, 3)
Do not think that I have forgotten the work in which you are especially interested. I have had this work in mind, but I have been very weak ever since I saw you last, and I have tried to rest as much as possible. There are many places that need help. We need help for the school near Nashville, and help will come.
(19LtMs, Lt 273, 1904, 4)
You will soon see something in print regarding your work, which is right to the point. I have written for publication in the Review an article relating to the purchase of the land for a school near Nashville. I have also spoken of your true relation to this work. I think this article will appear soon, and I have thought best that your article should not be published. Let me speak, and it will be better than for your article to appear, in which you plead for yourselves.
(19LtMs, Lt 273, 1904, 5)
We greatly desire the prosperity of the work in the South. You have our prayers and our influence to help you begin your work near Nashville. It may be that a sanitarium might be erected on the land you have purchased; for it is not too far from Nashville. Thus the land could be more fully utilized, and the work of the two institutions might blend together.
(19LtMs, Lt 273, 1904, 6)
I have every confidence that it was our duty to purchase this land. Let us not worry. The necessary means will be provided. The Lord understands the situation, and He will sustain you and open the way before you. We know that you are established in the right place. Make a beginning in the right way, as soon as you can, knowing that the Lord lives and reigns, and that His providence has attended our steps thus far. Our sympathies are with you.
(19LtMs, Lt 273, 1904, 7)
Lt 275, 1904
Davis, Marian Washington, D. C. August 7, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 269. + Dear Sister Marian,—
We shall soon be home now. Since returning to Washington, I have had much writing to do, to place certain matters in their true light.
(19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, 1)
Yesterday an all-day grove meeting was held on the school grounds. In the morning short talks were given by several of the workers, and in the afternoon I spoke from the words, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, 2)
I had been sick, and I feared that I might not be able to speak. But I spoke for an hour, and the Lord strengthened and blessed me.
(19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, 3)
Next Thursday we shall go to Philadelphia, where we shall spend Sabbath and Sunday. From there we shall go to the Melrose Sanitarium, where I shall remain for a time to take treatment. I feel that I must go somewhere to rest for a little while. I dare not attempt to finish my journey without more strength.
(19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, 4)
Do not worry about the book; wait until we get home. Be of good courage. The Lord lives and reigns. Be of good courage in Him. Trust the dear Saviour as a child trusts its parents. He loves you, and in your perplexities He will be your helper and your God. Be strong in the Lord; yea, be strong.
(19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, 5)
Do not try to work. Ride out in the Harper carriage with Sister Peck or with Sister Nelson. The rides would do both you and Sister Peck good. Keep in the open air as much as possible. Do not worry. When the book is finished, we shall thank the Lord. But I have thought that perhaps it might be delayed in His providence. I shall not fret, nor hurry you. Take everything as easy as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, 6)
With much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 275, 1904, 7)
Lt 276, 1904
Paulson, David Takoma Park, Maryland July 30, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TMK 299; HP 41. + My brother in Christ Jesus,—
The Lord has presented your case before me, showing me that you are in positive danger of linking up with Dr. Kellogg. The Lord is not leading him; another spirit has taken possession of his mind, which ought to be clear and free from the satanic agencies which are now controlling the man. Dr. K. has not heeded the messages which the Lord has given him. Had he done this, he would stand free in the Lord, working with Him. But when he had light, he refused to follow the admonitions and the guidance of the Holy One; and he has been largely under the influence of another teacher, as were Adam and Eve in Eden. His case is much more aggravated, because he has had much more light.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 1)
My brother whom I respect in the faith and message of truth, cut yourself loose from satanic agencies. Satan is working Dr. K.’s mind and every other mind that he can obtain influence over. If Dr. K.’s brethren had checked this spirit by calling it by its right name, then as faithful watchmen they would have given the trumpet a certain sound. Could they not discern the subtle danger of the long interviews held by Dr. Kellogg? The leader of the rebellion in heaven is working through the influence of Dr. Kellogg to spoil and ruin the medical missionary work, to cause it to be suspected of heresy and infidelity. For Dr. K. has no God, he has no Christ, in verity and truth. He will deny or affirm anything, a lie or the suppositions of satanic agencies. And just as long as his associate physicians will say to his words, Yes, Yes, they will sustain falsehood. Again and again has the truth been sacrificed to please Dr. Kellogg.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 2)
Instruction has been given me that your mind is certainly being corrupted in sentiment. As your assent is given to Dr. Kellogg’s assertions as truth, you bear testimony to a lie, and the recording angel writes it thus. Unless Dr. Kellogg changes, confesses his sins, and is converted, the Lord will leave him to his own devices. I am charged to give you decided warning, before your mind shall run in the same groove.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 3)
Shall Christ be compelled to bear continually the shameful infirmities of His people because they accept the false sentiments proceeding from the first traitor in the heavenly courts? If the angels were deceived by Lucifer’s ingenious methods of misrepresenting God, if he deceived Adam and Eve, declaring that God was withholding from them the higher education that would make them as God, is there not danger that men today will be deceived? Please read Patriarchs and Prophets, and see if the precious truths contained in this book are not given by the Lord to protect His people from deception. I tell you in the name of the Lord God of Israel that Satan is presenting his sophistries to ministers and medical workers; and if our people will listen to these sophistries, they will become impregnated with the same satanic idea of a popular religion that will cause them to develop into gods, and there will be no place in their lives for God or for Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 4)
Just as long as you consent to listen to these sophistries, a subtle influence will weave the fine threads of seductive theories into the minds of men who should turn away from the first sentiments of teaching of this kind. As loyal subjects we must refuse even to listen to these sophistries, which are formed by the one who deceived the angels in heaven. This influence is something like a deadly viper, poisoning the minds of all who will listen to these fallacies. It is a branch of hypnotism, deadening the sensibilities of the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 5)
I have not strength to dwell upon this; for I feel so strong an indignation against Satan and those who, with the Word of God in their possession, listen to the teaching of human agencies, who are intent upon declaring theories which they present as more wonderful, higher, grander than the teachings of Christ, the One who gave His life to save the world from Satan’s higher education. We cannot afford to exchange Christ’s teachings for the devil’s lies.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 6)
Christ is our Saviour, His gospel is salvation, and by His grace the exceeding riches of pardoning mercy are bestowed on the repentant sinner. The Holy Ghost by the mouth of Zacharias describes the gospel as salvation by pardon through the tender mercies of our God. The blessings of the new covenant are grounded purely on mercy in forgiving unrighteousness . The Lord specifies, I will do thus and thus unto all who turn to Me, forsaking the evil and choosing the good. “I will be merciful unto their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.” [Hebrews 8:12.] All who humble their hearts, confessing their sins, will find mercy and grace and assurance. Has God, in showing mercy to the sinner, ceased to be just? Has He dishonored His holy law, and will He henceforth pass over the violation of it? God is true. He changes not. The conditions of salvation are ever the same. Life, eternal life, is for all who will obey God’s law. Perfect obedience, revealed in thought, word, and deed, is as essential now as when the lawyer asked Christ, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to 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.” Christ said to him, “Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 7)
Under the new covenant, the conditions by which eternal life may be gained are the same as under the old—perfect obedience. Under the old covenant, there were many offenses of a daring, presumptuous character, for which there was no atonement specified by law. In the new and better covenant, Christ has fulfilled the law for the transgressors of law, if they receive Him by faith as a personal Saviour. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] Mercy and forgiveness are the reward of all who come to Christ, trusting in His merits to take away their sins. In the better covenant we are cleansed from sin by the blood of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 8)
“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, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all.” [1 John 1:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 9)
“I will put My laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts.” [Hebrews 8:10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 10)
These precious assurances are thoroughly appreciated by the sinner who repents and comes to Christ, receiving from Him the power to become a son of God. The sinner is helpless to atone for one sin. The power is in Christ’s free gift, a promise appreciated by those only who are sensible of their sins, and who forsake their sins and cast their helpless souls upon Christ, the sin-pardoning Saviour. He will put into their hearts His perfect law, which is “Holy, and just, and good,” the law of God’s own nature. [Romans 7:12.] By partaking of the divine nature, they escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 11)
Man’s only hope is to be rescued by the power of Christ. The experience of the saints of all ages is a history of trials met and confessions made, a record of an unceasing warfare against satanic influences; and all the way along there are seen footsteps of constant advance.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 12)
“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. 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. 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. 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.” [Verses 2-12.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 14)
“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” [Psalm 1:1.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 15)
Meetings were held in a certain place where there were apparently two parties present. The Spirit of the Lord was seeking entrance into the hearts of those present. Had the word that God gave during the meeting been heeded, there would have been a general time of humiliation and confession of sins before God, and the whole room would have been filled with the glory of God. But in the place of every soul humbling his own heart, clearing away the rubbish from the door, making a way by which Christ might enter, some pursued a wrong course, like a car that jumps a track, and words were spoken that should not have been uttered. If hearts had been broken, melted by the Spirit of God, there would have been such a scene that souls now in darkness would have had opportunity to clear the King’s highway by confessing their shortcomings. But things were introduced in that meeting when silence would have been eloquence.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 16)
Words were given me to bring before some that were in that meeting who were burning for a chance to condemn and to pass judgment upon others. There were two parties there, the godly and the ungodly. The words were spoken of some whom I shall not at this time name: “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” [Verse 1.] The scornful were there, their spirit unsubdued, unhumbled. They had been walking contrary to God. The Lord had given them gracious words of encouragement, declaring that if they would take hold of His strength, they would make peace with Him. While they were sliding over the precipice into the black waters below, a hand was stretched out to save them and place them on vantage ground. This was the time for them to grasp the hand of the One who could have saved them if they had humbled their hearts before God. There was, I was shown, abundance for them to confess, in order to free their souls from guilt. But they chose to sit in the seat of the scornful. They decided that they would not improve the opportunity offered them. They left the meeting as they came, refusing the representation made me of what God would do for every soul. They took up their burden of sin, and carried it away with them, to continue to dishonor God and to rob their souls of the salvation Christ was waiting to bestow.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 17)
That meeting and its after results were presented to me. God was dishonored. His name was trampled in the dust. But the Lord God of Israel still lives and controls.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 18)
“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” [Verse 1.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 19)
Here is the description of another party: “But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water; that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” [Verses 2, 3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 20)
Our Saviour bore the shameful infirmities of fallen humanity. Christ was Himself without spot or stain of sin, but having taken the nature of man, He was exposed to the fiercest assaults of the enemy, to his sharpest temptations, to the keenest of sorrow. He suffered being tempted. He was made like unto His brethren, that He might show that through the grace given, humanity could overcome the temptations of the enemy. All who will stand in Christ may glorify Christ. In drawing near to God, they have abundant evidence that the Saviour will be with them in their struggle against sin. Listen to His words, “Lo, I come; in the volume of the book it is written of Me, I delight to do Thy will, O My God; yea, Thy law is within My heart.” [Psalm 40:7, 8.] Who is it that thus announces His purpose of coming to this earth? Isaiah tells us: “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called, Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 21)
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was 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 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, 3, 4, 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 22)
Christ Himself answers: “Before Abraham was, I AM.”“I and My Father are one.”“For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom He will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son; that all men should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father.” [John 8:58; 10:30; 5:21-23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 23)
“Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in His apparel, travelling in the greatness of His strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.” [Isaiah 63:1.] “Without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” [1 Timothy 3:16.] “Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God; but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in the fashion as a man He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father;”“in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.” [Philippians 1:6-11; Colossians 1:14, 15.]
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 24)
The incarnation of Christ is the mystery of all mysteries.
(19LtMs, Lt 276, 1904, 25)
Lt 277, 1904
Read, A. J. Washington, D. C. July 31, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1SM 199-200; 1MR 53. + Dr. A. J. Reed My dear brother,—
I have a message for you. Christ speaks to you, saying, look away from every human being to the great Teacher. The message that rang through Judea in the time of John the Baptist, “Repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” is the message for today. [Matthew 3:2.] Repentance means a change of heart, a change of mind.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 1)
The Son of God, the divine foundation of all faith, all truth, all righteousness intends that fallen human beings shall have every possible advantage as they strive against evil. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was 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.” [John 1:1, 3-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 2)
The closing words of this Scripture point to the condition that many who suppose themselves to be advanced in a knowledge of the truth are in at the present time. They are following paths that are leading them away from the Light and Life of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 3)
“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” [Verses 6-9.] The Saviour is calling, “Follow Me, and ye shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] God is calling upon you, my brother, to turn away from human devising, to follow His guidance, to refuse to be deceived.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 4)
“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.... 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 1:10-12, 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 5)
This is the message that I am instructed to bear to our physicians. The Lord calls upon those who claim to be medical missionaries to free themselves from the control of any human mind. He says, “Break every yoke. My servants are not to be under the jurisdiction of any man. Their minds belong to Me. They have not been sold into bondage to any human being; for him to lead them into philosophical speculation and spiritualistic theories.”
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 6)
Christ never causes confusion in minds. He says, “I will surely bring punishment upon those who put themselves in My place to control the minds of My blood-bought heritage; for thus they endanger the souls of those who have been purchased with the price of My own blood. These physicians are My workmen. They are to present to the world a standing evidence that the human mind, under the control of the Holy Spirit, represents the heavenly world. Better would it be for a man never to have been born than to spoil the souls of My heritage. The soul that is turned away from the Word may lose eternal life. Unless the one who does this work comes to Me with repentance and confession, he will lose the life that measures with the life of God.”
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 7)
One soul mislead—forfeiting eternal bliss—who can estimate the loss!
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 8)
The missionaries of the Christian church are to stand in their God-given manhood, with the privilege of exercising freedom of speech and freedom of faith. When they see that a fellow laborer is not doing as a man in his position ought to do, they are not to harmonize with his plans or be cowed into silence by a masterful spirit. For them to do this would be a great injury to him and to them.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 9)
I am given a message to bear to you and to the rest of our physicians who are connected with the Medical Missionary Association. Separate from the influence exerted by the book Living Temple; for it contains specious sentiments. There are in it sentiments that are entirely true, but these are mingled with error. Scriptures are taken out of their connection and used to uphold erroneous theories.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 10)
The thought of the errors contained in this book has given me great distress, and the experience that I have passed through in connection with the matter has nearly cost me my life.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 11)
You have had access to the Testimonies to the Church, volumes VII and VIII. In these Testimonies the danger signal is raised. But the light so clear and plain to minds that have not been influenced by deceptive theories has not been discerned by you. Dr. Kellogg has exerted a strong influence upon you and his other associate physicians. He has placed on your necks a yoke which must be broken, else your life records will be spoiled. He has led into by and forbidden paths the feet of men appointed of God to do a special work. Had not his soul been lifted up unto vanity, had he not determined to follow the counsels of his own mind, the book Living Temple would never have appeared in print.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 12)
While the destructive theories of this book are entertained by our physicians, there cannot be union between them and the ministers who are bearing the gospel message. There should be no union until there is a change. The power of Christ and the power of Satan are at war against one another. Between these powers there can be no connection; for they are utterly antagonistic to each other.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 13)
I am instructed to speak plainly. “Meet it,” is the word spoken to me. “Meet it firmly and without delay.” But it is not to be met by taking our working forces from the field to investigate doctrines and points of difference. We have no such investigation to make. In the book Living Temple, there is presented the Alpha of deadly heresies. The Omega will follow and will be received by those who are not willing to heed the warning God has given.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 14)
Our physicians upon whom important responsibilities rest should have clear spiritual discernment. They are to stand constantly on guard. Dangers that we do not now discern will soon break upon us, and I greatly desire that our physicians shall not be deceived. I have an intense longing to see them standing free in the Lord. I pray that they may have the courage to stand firm for the truth as it is in Jesus, holding fast the beginning of their confidence unto the end.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 15)
We are to make advance moves; but we cannot unite with Dr. Kellogg until he is a changed man. Had he received the light and encouragement that Christ gave him at the Berrien Springs Conference, and acknowledged his errors; had he at that Conference cleared the King’s highway, and taken up the stones; had he removed the obstacles by which he has continually obstructed the progress of the work, he would have received great blessings. For years message after message has been given, telling him that God forbade certain things, and yet he has been determined to carry matters in his own way.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 16)
When medical missionaries made their practice and example harmonize with the name they bear, when they feel their need of uniting firmly with the ministers of the gospel, then there can be harmonious action. But, the time has come when we must firmly refuse to be drawn away from the platform of eternal truth, which since 1844 has stood the test.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 17)
I was instructed that the future success of our work as a people has been imperilled by the investing of so much means in the institutions in Battle Creek. Messages were sent saying that this should not be done, but plans of human devising were followed. And now, when it is seen that the work is hedged about by difficulties, it is declared that influences must have been exerted to place the work in such a position that there must be shifting of the responsibilities.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 18)
I am instructed to say that as matters now stand, we should show ourselves unfaithful servants did we allow the debts of the medical association to be laid upon the General Conference. Properly managed, sanitariums will sustain themselves. But unless there is wise management, they will become involved in debt. The duty of taking over the institutions that are crippled with debt has not been laid upon the General Conference. We are to open new fields and are to work from a different standpoint altogether.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 19)
The Lord forbids that every sanitarium which is established shall be placed under the control of one association or one group of men.
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 20)
It will be said that Living Temple has been revised. But the Lord has shown me that Dr. Kellogg has not changed, and there can be no unity between him and the ministers of the gospel while he continues to cherish his present sentiments. I am bidden to lift my voice in warning to our people, saying, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked.” [Galatians 6:7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 21)
I now ask you, Will you take your stand boldly for the right? Will you break completely the yoke that has been upon your neck?
(19LtMs, Lt 277, 1904, 22)
Lt 279, 1904
Paulson, D.; Sadler, W.; Jones, A. T.; Waggoner, E. J. Takoma Park, Maryland August 1, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 174-177. To brethren Paulson, Sadler, Jones, and Waggoner,—
In the night season I seemed to be in a large company, speaking plainly and decidedly under the inspiration of the Spirit of God. I presented the true outcome of the present controversy over the medical work. I told those present that had they heeded the testimonies sent them, the many young people now in Battle Creek would not have come under the subtle influence of the education they have there received.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 1)
One not known to those present stepped forward, and in a clear, distinct voice said, “Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” [Ephesians 5:14-17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 2)
Many other words were spoken. Before us were Dr. Paulson and Brother Sadler. The Speaker took the hand first of one and then of another, and said, “You are beloved of God, but you have not been making straight paths for your feet. Follow Me. The one to whom you have yielded respect has refused to accept and follow the counsel of God and has allowed himself to be influenced by seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. The end you cannot possibly imagine.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 3)
“Heed the words given to the apostle for the benefit of the church. ‘As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him; rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power.’ [Colossians 2:6-10.] You have given honor to a finite man. Once and again God has honored this man, but he will not heed My word. He has despised Me in the person of My saints.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 4)
“You are not to honor any man unless his works testify that God honors him and that he is under the Lord’s keeping power. You have unmistakable evidence that one amongst you, whom in the past I have greatly honored, has greatly dishonored Me and has made decided efforts to glorify himself. With legal bonds he has bound up the interests of My cause. These bonds must be broken, and you must use your influence to see that they are broken. My work is not to be manipulated by men. It must not be subjected to any ambitious devisings. The medical missionary work has been deteriorating, because the spirit that has controlled in it is not a pure, holy spirit, but a spirit that for years has been seeking to exalt itself against My messengers.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 5)
“‘The Spirit speaketh expressly that in the latter time some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their conscience seared with a hot iron.’ [1 Timothy 4:1, 2.] ‘I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they 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.’ [2 Timothy 4:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 6)
“You are at this time passing through a trying experience. Stand strongly linked with My appointed messengers, and let not any evil words prejudice your minds or be as seed sown in your hearts. Your strength now is not in keeping silent and allowing fables to be brought in and taught as truth. My Word will go forth as a lamp that burneth. I will work through messengers who will not yoke up with Dr. Kellogg, who will not endorse his methods and plans, but who will reprove them. He has refused to wear My yoke, and unless he is converted, I will separate from him and from those who sustain him in his self-exaltation.”
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 7)
Those who are carrying on the work of our sanitariums are not to shun responsibility and neglect their duty in order to give Dr. Kellogg the right of way. He has drawn many of our youth to Battle Creek, and they have become fastened where they will be brought under influences opposed to God. They are not to be kept under this training. Cut loose, cut loose is my message. Souls are being deceived; sentiments are being received which originate with satanic agencies. Cut loose, cut loose.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 8)
Fields were pointed out which, though kept open for years, have been left unworked, while there has been devising and planning, and the Lord has been reproving these plans. Instruction has been given me that if so many young people had not been gathered to Battle Creek, a great and efficient work might have been done. Places that are unworked might have been entered, and souls might have been reached by the truth. Small companies of workers, under the wise generalship of consecrated teachers, should be going forth into needy fields. Whenever this work is taken up in earnest, careful movements will need to be made. There should be no wild, fanatical flights. A wise program should be made by men under the control and guidance of the Lord, built up in the most holy faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 9)
The students in our various colleges and training schools are to have wise medical teachers. The students are to be given wise religious instruction. Their teachers are to be men who love and fear the Lord, men of self-control, whose lives give evidence that they have learned to obey and reverence God. If a teacher does not fear God and keep His commandments, cling not to him, however high his capabilities; for he will sow seeds of unbelief in the minds of the youth. No man should be allowed to carry out doubtful, forbidden projects.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 10)
“Be ye 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 sweetsmelling 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.... Let no man deceive you with vain words.” [Ephesians 5:1-4, 6.] Oh, how many eyes have been dimmed and clouded by vain words. How many have so disregarded the pure principles that are to be maintained in God’s work that they have become servants of the enemy, not placing half as much value upon the truth as upon the projects and devisings of man.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 11)
“Let no man deceive you with vain words; for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord; walk as children of light; ... proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light; for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.” [Verses 6-8, 10-13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 12)
The work that is to be done must not be cloaked. The wrongs that exist in our sanitariums must be criticized and purged away. The one who stands at the head, with his associate physicians, will mislead the students, unless he is converted. These brethren may be greatly disturbed because they are opposed in their plans, and they may create great confusion. They do not realize that if their plans were carried out, it would mean ruin to them and to those connected with them.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 13)
Our Counsellor then laid His hands on the shoulders of Elders A. T. Jones and E. J. Waggoner, and said, “You are confused. You are in the mist and fog. You have need of the heavenly anointing.” To Brother Jones He said, “Why have you permitted your mind to be worked as it has been? I warned you not to permit this.” He said to Brother Waggoner, “Leave the place where you now are, and walk in the path I have pointed out. Living Temple is full of seductive sentiments, which if received, will tear down the foundations of your faith and weaken your perceptions of truth and righteousness.”
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 14)
Addressing them both, He said, “There is a work for both of you to do. Your minds need to be thoroughly renewed. Your faith is to rest on a high, holy, substantial foundation. God has a work for you to do in sounding the last message of warning to the world. Turn away from scientific theories. What is the chaff to the wheat?”
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 15)
The Speaker was represented to me as standing on a high platform. To this platform He raised both men and placed one at His right hand and the other at His left. Then He said: “The sentiments that you have received in harmony with the special theories presented in the book Living Temple are not pure truth. There is a commingling of truth and error, and it will be difficult for you to single out the true from the false, to distinguish between the threads of truth and the threads of error. My Word is spirit and life. I am the bread of life. He that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life. I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever. 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.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 16)
“Cast out of your minds the sophistries that you have been receiving. God would have your minds cleansed from these theories. Hold fast the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. Warn others to let spiritualistic sophistries alone. Preach the Word as you have done in the past, and My Spirit will be with you. Holy angels will accompany you if you will follow in the way that God has marked out.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 17)
“Separate entirely from the bewitching, misleading sentiments that run through Living Temple. You are to be My witnesses. You are to declare My Word. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me. It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. There is a work for you to do; but you must empty your minds of all fanciful presentations and give the warning message. In the place of froth and nothingness, you may have the living water that Christ promises to give to all who come to Him.”
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 18)
My brethren, I am so glad, so thankful for this message that the Lord has given me for you. He said, “I will make you both free if you will take hold of My strength. You each have a work to do in proclaiming the message that Christ came to give to John, telling him to write it in a book, and send it to the churches.”
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 19)
Proclaim this message; for it is your life. God will give you the power of His grace. He will give you the treasures of truth, and the Holy Spirit will make them shine in their original luster. Give to the world the message the Lord has given you. Remove not a pin or a pillar from the foundation of our faith. Preach the truth as it has been given by the Lord. This truth is powerful in the conviction of sinners.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 20)
There is a higher order of enjoyment and power than man can create derived from a source above humanity. But in order to fulfil Christ’s purpose for you, you must study the truths He has given you. Eat and drink the Word. Put away all fanciful theories. Let the truth stand out in its original power. God’s great purposes are to be worked out, after the pattern of things in the heavens. Let God give you your message. Weigh every proposition coming from human beings; for fanciful theories will be brought in.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 21)
Light from the throne of God is waiting for you. Empty your hearts, and let this light shine in. Show to the world an image of heavenly certainty. Lift up your eyes and see the fields that are ripe for the harvest. The light of heaven will shine all around you, repelling presumptuous sophistries. Let the truth shine forth with its own glory and in its own defense. Feed the flock of God with the manna that His own hand supplies. Your capabilities will increase as the indwelling life expands. Trust to God’s guardianship. His church is to be taught. Enfeebled and defective though it is, it is the object of His supreme regard.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 22)
My brethren, the Lord will help you mightily if you will be guided by Him, and I am confident that you will be. May He help you, now, just now, to receive and believe the testimony that comes to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 279, 1904, 23)
Lt 280, 1904
Ministers, Physicians, and Teachers Middletown, Connecticut September 3, 1904 See variant of Lt 280a, 1904. Portions of this letter are published in UL 260; LHU 76. To Ministers, physicians, and teachers Dear Brethren,—
My mind is drawn out in most earnest thought and prayer. The question arises, What do you suppose will be accomplished by the testimonies given to change the order of things that now exists?
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 1)
Testimony after testimony has been borne under the special influence of the Holy Spirit, to point out to men their mistakes and their dangers; yet those who have gone out of the way and have needed correction have in their darkness set their unsanctified judgment to work against the Holy Spirit, saying of the part that reproved their course, “Somebody has told her,” and of the part in which their wrong course of action was not referred to, “That is of the Lord.”
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 2)
It was thus that at the Berrien Springs meeting men put their human measurement upon the testimonies that were borne to them. The result of this was that those who needed to confess their own sins were led to confess the sins of others. Some tried to specify what was of God in the warnings sent and what was not; and they thought to relieve the situation by taking the position that Sister White is human, and therefore the reproofs coming to them were of human origin. Thus the message sent by God to arrest them from doing harm to themselves and others by entertaining unbelief and refusing to be corrected were made of none effect. So long as this is the way that testimonies are treated, they will have no effect on the erring ones. All the ordained messengers of God, prophets and apostles, were directed to give very straight, decided warnings.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 3)
Cain slew his brother Abel because Abel referred him to the express direction from God that all sacrificial offerings brought to Him were to be accompanied by a slain lamb as the acknowledgment and confession of sin and as a representation of Christ, who was to save the fallen race by becoming Himself the great Sacrifice. Cain had a faultless offering, with the exception that he did not follow the plan of God by bringing a lamb. Because Abel repeated to Cain God’s directions regarding the sacrificial offerings, Cain became very angry and killed his brother.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 4)
For the past twenty years the church has been distracted in regard to the proper relation of the medical work to the gospel ministry, because the leader in the medical work has been holding up the gospel minister as inferior to the medical missionary worker. The gospel message, given to warn the world of what is coming as foretold by the prophecies relating to these last days, has not had the impression upon the minds of our physicians that it should have had. The defective plans of the leader in our medical work have been pointed out over and over again, and yet he has kept right on as confidently as if he were supreme in wisdom.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 5)
I have been shown that although he wrote to me that he had surrendered, yet there has been no real surrender. He will continue to vindicate his course of action. In the past, the burden has lain heavily upon me as I have been obliged to meet his ways, his suggestions, and his plans, which the Lord has not inspired, and which, if followed, would cause many to turn aside from the truth to fables dressed in angel robes. His associate physicians have been blinded and confused, and the work of God has been retarded by his course of action. And now it is almost impossible to remove the false and misleading impressions that have been made upon the minds of others—impressions which certainly do not tend to increase faith in the light that the Lord has been giving to the Seventh-day Adventists for the past half century. A continuous work, tending to undermine the confidence of many in God’s warnings, has been carried on. To those who received his version of things, the end will be infidelity. For our people to look to him to mold the educational work of our students, who are preparing for the sacred work of medical missionaries, would be a great mistake.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 6)
A great deal of rubbish has been brought to the foundation—a great deal of wood, hay, and stubble—in the place of gold, silver, and precious stones. Those who have assisted in this faulty work will, if they repent, be pardoned because of the great mercy of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 7)
Clearly it is presented to me that the great work for these last days will soon be finished.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 8)
Was the human nature of the Son of Mary changed into the divine nature of the Son of God?—No; the two natures were mysteriously blended in one person—the Man Christ Jesus. In Him dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. When Christ was crucified, it was His human nature that died. Deity did not sink and die; that would have been impossible. Christ, the sinless One, will save every son and daughter of Adam who accepts the salvation proffered them, consenting to become the children of God. The Saviour has purchased the fallen race with His own blood.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 9)
This is a great mystery, a mystery that will not be fully, completely understood in its greatness until the translation of the redeemed shall take place. Then the power and greatness and efficacy of the gift of God to man will be understood. But the enemy is determined that this gift shall be so mystified that it will become as nothingness.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 10)
We shall have false sentiments to meet. Never, never can we afford to place confidence in human greatness as some have done, looking to man as the angels in heaven looked to the rebellious Lucifer, and thus finally losing the sense of the presence of Christ and God.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 11)
Who by searching can find out God to perfection? The gospels set forth the character of Christ as infinitely perfect. I wish I could speak of this so that the whole world could hear the object of Christ’s mission and work.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 12)
Read and search the Scriptures, in which Christ is set forth as the divine object of our faith. When finite man, under the subtle influence of the tempter, comes to question the words of the One who is called, “Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” [Isaiah 9:6], his conception of himself increases, and his conception of Christ and God decrease.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 13)
“Search the Scriptures,” said Christ; “for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.] The sufferings of the Redeemer, the humility of His human-divine character are not understood, and therefore His virtues are not practiced. The treasures of knowledge to be obtained from God are inexhaustible.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 14)
The most gifted men on the earth could all find abundant employment, from now until the judgment, for all their God-given powers, in exalting the character of Christ. But they would still fail to present Him as He is. The mysteries of redemption, embracing Christ’s divine-human character, His incarnation, His atonement for sin could employ the pens and the highest mental powers of the wisest men from now until Christ shall be revealed in the clouds of heaven in power and great glory. But though these men should seek with all their power to give a representation of Christ and His work, the representation would fall far short of the reality.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 15)
The mysteries of redemption are not presented to the students in our schools as they should be. The theme of redemption will employ the minds and tongues of the redeemed through everlasting ages. The reflection of the glory of God will shine forth forever and ever from the Saviour’s face.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 16)
Nonessential questions will be brought in by those who do not purify their souls by obeying the truth. They fall far short of the standard of loving God supremely and their neighbor as themselves. I am bidden to say that sophistries will be brought in to take the place of the pure gospel of Jesus Christ. The message of warning is given, “Some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] This word is being fulfilled among our people.
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 17)
The Lord calls upon every member of the church to be on guard. The Voice said, “Be on guard.” The Lord Jesus has warned us in His Word of what shall be. Will any one say of this warning, “This does not agree with our ideas,” and pay no attention to the warning? The Lord has lifted the danger signal, that all may hear and take heed to the warnings. The great danger is in exalting man. Human beings cannot bear exaltation. Jesus invites us, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 280, 1904, 18)
Lt 280a, 1904
Ministers, Physicians, and Teachers Middletown, Connecticut September 3, 1904 Variant of Lt 280, 1904. This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 416-420. + [To Ministers, Physicians, and Teachers:]
I cannot sleep after eleven o’clock. My mind is drawn out in most earnest thought and prayer. The question arises, What do you suppose will be accomplished by your testimony to change the order of things that now exists? Testimony after testimony has been borne under the special influence of the Holy Spirit, and those who have gone out of the way have in their darkness put their human ideas into operation, supposing that when testimonies were sent them from God, to point out their mistakes and their dangers, they could set their unsanctified judgment to work against the Holy Spirit, saying of the part that reproved their course, “Somebody has told her,” and of the part in which their wrong course of action was not referred to, “That is of the Lord.”
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 1)
This was done at Berrien Springs and resulted in those who needed to confess their own sins, confessing the sins of others, and trying to specify what was of God in the warnings sent and what was not. Some thought to relieve the situation by taking the position that Sister White is human, and therefore the reproofs coming to them to arrest them from doing harm to themselves and others by entertaining unbelief, and refusing to be corrected, are of human origin. Is this the way that testimonies are treated, that they have no effect on the erring ones? All the ordained messengers of God, prophets and apostles, were directed to give very straight, decided warnings.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 2)
Cain slew his brother Abel because Abel referred him to the express direction from God that all sacrificial offerings brought to Him were to be accompanied by a slain lamb, as the acknowledgment and confession of sin, and to represent Christ, who saved the fallen race by Himself becoming the great Sacrifice. Cain had a faultless offering, with the exception that he did not bring a lamb. Because Abel repeated to Cain God’s directions regarding the sacrificial offerings, Cain became very angry and killed his brother.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 3)
Many things have been presented to me. I have been shown that although J. H. Kellogg has written that he has surrendered, he has not surrendered. He will vindicate himself and will not, unless thoroughly converted, be a safe man to stand in positions of influence. We must guard the flock of God from just such things as have for years been proceeding from his sophistries. It is not safe for him to bear the responsibilities that he has borne. The burden has lain heavily upon me as I have been obliged to meet his ways, his suggestions, and his plans, which the Lord has not inspired, and which, if followed, would cause many to turn aside from the truth to fables dressed in angels’ robes. God forbid that this should continue. Dr. Kellogg’s course has blinded and confused his associate physicians and has retarded the work of God. How impossible it is to remove the impressions that have been made upon the minds of others, impressions which certainly do not tend to increase faith in the light that the Lord has been giving for the past half century.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 4)
Dr. Kellogg’s ideas and plans have not been of heavenly origin. For the past twenty years the church has been distracted in regard to the proper relation of the medical work to the gospel ministry, because Dr. Kellogg has been holding up the gospel minister as inferior to the medical missionary work. The gospel messages given to warn the world of what is coming, as foretold by the prophecies relating to these last days, has not had the impression upon Dr. Kellogg’s mind that it should have had. His defective movements have been pointed out over and over again, and yet he keeps right on as confidently as if he were supreme in wisdom. He has done an objectionable work, undermining the confidence of many in God’s warnings. To those who receive his version of things and his representations as the wisdom of God, the sure result will come. The end will be infidelity, an acceptance of sophistries that undermine the plain facts of the Bible. His skill as a physician, the knowledge that God has given him, has so exalted him, that he has felt that he was supreme. He has said many things and then contradicted and denied them. His own mind is so strained that he is utterly confused as to what is genuine truth and what is fable. For him to be accepted as an educator, to prepare students for the doing of the sacred work that is termed medical missionary work, would be a great mistake. He would fail to leave upon minds the reformative missionary impress. He has not done the work properly for years, although followed by the testimonies of the Spirit of God. A great deal of rubbish has been brought to the foundation, a great deal of wood, hay, and stubble, in the place of gold, silver, and precious stones. Those who have done this work will, if they repent, be pardoned because of the great mercy of God toward them, but their works will be estimated by the Bible standard and will be consumed.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 5)
This I am instructed to write. Dr. Kellogg’s case has been a mystery of mysteries. That which has given power to his work—truth and righteousness—he has discarded. The cause of God has been hindered in its advance by the only one who could do a work so counter to the work the Lord would have done at this stage of our history. His people are now many of them confused by the subtle reasoning that has been presented. If ministers of the gospel are bewildered and receive the false statements made, what can be expected of the churches? This is the representation made to me. If Dr. Kellogg’s mind were now clear enough to see wherein he has been so far out of the way, so that he would make thorough, decided reforms, then there would be hope; but I am instructed that the way he has treated any words of encouragement leaves his case almost hopeless. I have suffered so much under this deceptive working that I regard the case as almost hopeless. Dr. Kellogg’s mind has been so racked and center-shaken through refusing to receive the light that God has given, through working opposite to the Lord, that his whole nature has been converted into a bundle of contradictions. But I must present the warnings that have been given for the past twenty years.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 6)
During the past night many things have been presented to me, and I am firmly decided that the great work for these last days will soon be finished.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 7)
Was the human nature of the Son of Mary changed into the divine nature of the Son of God? No; the two natures were mysteriously blended in one person—the Man Christ Jesus. In Him dwelt all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. When Christ was crucified, it was His human nature that died. Deity did not sink and die; that would have been impossible. Christ, the sinless One, will save every son and daughter of Adam who accepts the salvation proffered them, consenting to become the children of God. The Saviour has purchased the fallen race with His own blood.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 8)
This is a great mystery, a mystery that will not be fully, completely understood in its greatness until the translation of the redeemed shall take place. Then the power and greatness and efficacy of the gift of God to man will be understood. But the enemy is determined that this gift shall be so mystified that it will become a nothingness. If believers only knew what this means, the work would be done in our churches that must be done if the members ever enter the kingdom of heaven. But when men in responsible positions pervert their reason and give themselves up to Satan’s way of thinking, they will surely stand before the world on Satan’s side, however great their influence may have been and still is, doing the work that Satan did, led and inspired by his spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 9)
We shall have false sentiments to meet. Never, never can we afford to place confidence in human greatness as some have done, looking to man as the angels in heaven looked to the rebellious Lucifer and losing the sense of the presence of Christ and God.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 10)
*****
During the night season I have listened to words that are of the deepest importance to me. Who by searching can find out God to perfection? The gospels set forth the character of Christ as infinitely perfect. I wish I could speak of this so that the whole world could hear the object of Christ’s mission and work; but Infinity alone can do this work. Read and search the Scriptures, in which Christ is set forth as the divine object of our faith. When finite man, under the influence of satanic agencies, comes to question the words of the One who is called, “Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” [Isaiah 9:6], his conceptions of himself increase and his conceptions of Christ and God decrease. “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.] The sufferings of the Redeemer, the humility of His human-divine character, are not understood, and therefore His virtues are not practiced. The treasures of knowledge to be obtained from God are inexhaustible.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 11)
The most gifted men on the earth could all find abundant employment, from now until the judgment, for all their God-given powers in exalting the character of Christ. But they would fail decidedly to present Him as He is. The mysteries of redemption, embracing Christ’s divine-human character, His incarnation, His atonement for sin could employ the pens and the highest mental powers of the wisest men from now until Christ shall be revealed in the clouds of heaven in power and great glory. But though these men should seek with all their power to give a representation of Christ and His work, the representation would fall far short of the reality.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 12)
The mysteries of redemption are not presented to the students in our schools as they should be. The themes of redemption will employ the minds and tongues of the redeemed through everlasting ages. The reflection of the glory of God will shine forth forever and ever from the Saviour’s face.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 13)
Let those who are presenting theories as to whether the earth is round or flat leave this question—for God has not given it to them to solve—and earnestly inquire: “What shall I do that I may have everlasting life?” Let them heed the answer: “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.” [Luke 10:25, 27.]
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 14)
Nonessential questions will be brought in by those who do not purify their souls by obeying the truth. They fall far short of the standard of loving God supremely and their neighbor as themselves. I am bidden to say that sophistries will be brought in to take the place of the pure gospel of Jesus Christ. The message is given, “Some will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” [1 Timothy 4:1.] This word has been fulfilling among our people.
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 15)
The Lord calls upon every member of the church to be on guard. The Voice said, “Be on guard.” The Lord Jesus has warned us in His Word of what shall be. Will any one say of this warning, “This does not agree with our ideas,” and pay no attention to the warning? The Lord has lifted the danger signal, that all may hear and take heed to the warnings. The great danger is in exalting man. Human beings cannot bear exaltation. Jesus invites us, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 280a, 1904, 16)
Lt 281, 1904
Riley, W. H. Washington, D. C. August 3, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 15MR 258-264. Dr. W. H. Riley Dear Brother,—
I have a most earnest desire that you shall stand free in the Lord. I pray that you may have the moral courage to stand firm for the truth and to hold fast the beginning of your confidence unto the end. Do not allow yourself to be led away from the truth to receive fables. It is of no avail to bring to the foundation material represented by wood, hay, and stubble. Such material will be utterly consumed. Let us remember that we have been bought at an infinite price by the Son of God. Our physicians must not allow themselves to be held in control by another man’s mind, as they have been, fearing to open their lips to differ with their chief.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 1)
The missionaries of the Christian church are to stand in their God-given manhood, with the privilege of exercising freedom of speech and freedom of faith. When they see that a fellow laborer is not doing as a man in his position ought to do, they are not to harmonize with his plans or to be cowered into silence by a masterful spirit. For them to do this would be a great injury to him and to them.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 2)
Our physicians should not be required to verify statements that they know are not true. How dare they do this? How dare any one require it? They do great harm to a speaker when they listen to false statements without making any protest or correction.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 3)
Our physicians are to stand where no binding influence will hold them speechless when they hear wrong sentiments expressed. At times, with burning earnestness and words of terrible severity, Christ denounced the abominations that He saw in the church and in the world. He would not allow the people to be deceived by false claims to righteousness and sanctity.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 4)
We are to unify, but not on a platform of error. That which has been said in the testimonies in regard to Living Temple and its misleading sentiments is not overdrawn. Some of its theories are misleading, and their influence will be to close the minds of those who receive them against the truth for this time. Men may explain in regard to these theories, nevertheless they are contrary to the truth. Scriptures are misplaced and misapplied, taken out of their connection and given a wrong application. Thus those are deceived who have not a vital, personal experience in the truths that have made us as a people what we are.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 5)
We are living amidst the perils of the last days. We are to watch unto prayer. We are to put our entire trust in God, glorifying Him. Daily we are to learn lessons from the greatest medical missionary that ever trod this earth. He is our tabernacle of witness for heavenly things. He will not accept that which has been done in bringing so much of a commercial spirit into the medical missionary work, neither will He accept the Laodicean condition of the Medical Missionary Association. This association is not doing the work indicated by its name. It is not preparing a people to obtain a sound, healthy experience, which will stand the test of the judgment. I am so sorry; for God is dishonored. His work, which should be a praise in the earth, is belittled. False sentiments have been entertained, and a strange work has been done.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 6)
The great Medical Missionary was a wonderful healer. He worked the most convincing miracles. He is the way, the truth, and the life. He spoke only the truth. Continually there fell from His lips the precious words that bring spiritual strength to those who make them a part of the daily life. Spiritually we are built up from the food that we give the mind. It is our privilege to receive the bread of life from the great Medical Missionary, who came to give life to the world. Truth, pure, refining, ennobling truth, came from His very heart. He spoke words of heavenly wisdom, which will make men wise unto salvation. His heart was constantly burning with the love that brought Him from heaven to our world. His goodness and His power enabled Him to reveal in His life the truth that He came to this earth to bring to the fallen race. In every word, in every act He manifested the love of God, cheering and encouraging the downcast and distressed. In heavenly wisdom He asserted His true majesty by bending all things to the present and future happiness of human beings. He came to teach men and women how to live here below the life of which He gave them an example—the life that will make them fit to enter the abodes of bliss.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 7)
In His breast mercy may be said to have held her court. Hear His words of compassion, spoken to relieve the sin-sick culprit, “Thy sins are forgiven thee.” [Luke 5:20.] His work was a representation of true medical missionary work. He brought healing to soul and body. In His life was enshrouded the love, the pity, the compassion, the joy of heaven. Thousands were healed by His word, “I will; be thou whole.” [See Matthew 8:3.] By His work, His glory was so plainly revealed that demons were pained, and when compelled to cease tormenting human beings, confessed Christ to be the Holy One of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 8)
This work Christ did to show men that He was the tabernacle of witness, that the Word had been made flesh. In the human encampment, amongst the erring and sinful, Christ pitched His tent. He lived close to the poor and lowly, yet He was the King of glory. He would make all familiar with His character, that we might be partakers of the divine nature and thus become one with Him in faith and practice. He declares, “All things are delivered to Me of My Father.”“All things that the Father hath are Mine.”“All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” [Luke 10:22; John 16:15; Matthew 28:18.] Why was this wonderful transfer made but that Christ might be the world’s Redeemer, the incarnate Saviour!
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 9)
To John the Baptist, shut up in prison because of his fearless testimony against the licentiousness and the unlawful marriage of Herod, there came discouragement. He thought, Why does not Christ exercise His power and deliver me from prison? He sent his disciples to Christ with the inquiry, “Art Thou He that should come, or look we for another?” [Luke 7:19.]
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 10)
At the time, Christ was surrounded with the sick and with those who desired forgiveness of sins. Instead of immediately answering John’s disciples, He turned to the multitude. The arm mighty to save was made bare. He spoke, and the deaf heard His voice. He touched the eyes of the blind, and they opened to behold the blessed light of day. At His word, fever was rebuked. He looked on the dying, and they were brought back to life and health. The frenzied demoniac was freed from the power of evil spirits and fell down and worshiped the Deliverer, declaring Him to be the Christ of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 11)
Then, turning to John’s messengers, Christ said, “Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard.... And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me.” [Verses 22, 23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 12)
When Jesus was about to ascend to His Father, He gave His ministry of healing to His followers, leaving with them the commission, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 13)
The great Teacher, while on this earth, gave His whole life to teach us how to work as devoted, consecrated missionaries for God. In the prayer that He offered for His disciples just before His trial and crucifixion, He declared, “I have glorified Thee on the earth; I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do.... I have manifested Thy name unto the men which Thou gavest Me out of the world.” [John 17:4, 6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 14)
He came to our world to reveal the character of God. At the hands of those whom He sought to save, He received insult, mockery, and abuse. They crucified him, but He broke the fetters of the tomb and ascended to His Father, there to intercede as our Mediator.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 15)
The words that we are commanded to teach are the very words that Christ spoke while on this earth. We can dispense with human sophistry. Those who teach it will not have the heavenly endorsement, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] I call upon you, my brother, to be a free man. The time you have spent in the Sanitarium has not given you the qualifications that would fit you to be a co-worker with the great Medical Missionary in saving souls. Had you placed yourself under the instruction of the greatest Teacher the world has ever known, He would have given you an education that would have prepared you to work with Him. You would not have obtained an experience that would have almost unfitted you to be Christ’s co-laborer in the healing of the souls and bodies of His people.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 16)
Men and women are being held in the Battle Creek Sanitarium who are needed in the world, to proclaim the message that the Lord is soon to come with power and great glory. This warning message must be proclaimed. Those who know the truth for this time are to go forth to take it to those who know it not. They are to co-operate with Christ, the great Missionary, whose work it was to draw men to God. He was content to conceal Himself, to hide His divinity under the garb of humanity.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 17)
I call upon those who are at Battle Creek, losing their faith and losing their first love, to come away and take hold of the work of God in neglected fields, as soon as they have recovered from the influence of the seducing theories that have threatened to spoil them for the ministry of the Word and for the precious missionary work in which they might engage were they fully established in the faith. Actions speak louder than words. A world is perishing in sin, and God calls for workers. He wants one thousand at work in the highways and the hedges, where now there is but one. We have no time to listen to idle tales and false science. The faith of many will be revived when they will humble their hearts before God and go forth to fulfil the commission of Christ, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.]
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 18)
Had a large part of the company of students, who have been gathered into Battle Creek, engaged in the work as evangelists, colporteurs, and canvassers, trying in humility to teach the Word, there would have been a much more spiritual and sacredly intelligent medical working company. Had they gone forth, taking Christ as their Teacher, many who may never again become settled in the truth would have received an education that would have enabled them to open the Scriptures to others. Large numbers would have been converted and would have put out their talents to usury, teaching the things that Christ has commanded. But alas! they have been given a knowledge that, in the day of judgment, when the books will be opened and every man judged according to the deeds done in the body, they will wish they had never accepted. Better never to have learned the lessons they have been learning in unbelief and lack of faith, in sophistry and untruthful representations.
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 19)
Oh, may God open blind eyes! May He have pity on our people, who have so little judgment and wisdom!
(19LtMs, Lt 281, 1904, 20)
Lt 282, 1904
Hare, G.A. Duplicate of Lt 214, 1904.
Lt 283, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. Omaha, Nebraska September 10, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in VSS 21-22; 11MR 318. Dr. J. H. Kellogg My dear Brother,—
We reached Omaha at half-past one yesterday and were driven at once to the camp-meeting, a distance of about two miles. I talked for a few minutes to one or two of the ministers and was then taken to the room that had been secured for me. This room is in a house a few minutes’ walk from the ground. It is a large, airy room in a new house. Here we ate our lunch, which we had brought with us from the Sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 1)
I have not yet attended meeting. I speak today at half-past two. I slept well last night until nearly four o’clock. I thank the Lord for this great blessing.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 2)
Yesterday evening I had a short talk with Elder A. T. Robinson and learned that there are nearly one thousand campers on the ground. Besides this, many attending the meetings are staying in rooms. There is a decided interest in the truth in Omaha, and the people of the city seem to be glad of the opportunity of attending the meeting. I understand that last Sunday evening there were between fifteen hundred and two thousand present at the meeting.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 3)
The meeting is now at a most interesting stage. There are some rather perplexing questions to be settled, in reference to the publishing and handling of books by the International Publishing Association; but these questions must not be brought in here.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 4)
There are a large number of Germans at the meeting. Most of them, I think, understand the English language. There are also many Scandinavians present. It is something of a problem to arrange the meetings so that those of different nationalities will get the most good. I know of no better way than for all to hear what they can, and obtain all the good possible, to take home with them.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 5)
I received a blessing in the night season at Battle Creek before speaking to the helpers in the Sanitarium. I laid right hold upon the great Medical Missionary, and I was assured that His grace would be with me in large measure. The promise was fulfilled. And this grace sustained me during my journey to Chicago. On reaching there, I found that I could walk through the large waiting rooms and up and down the stairs as easily as I ever could. For this I thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 6)
They expect much of me here. But they must look away from me to the Lord Jesus. I shall help them in every way possible. I know that when I ask the Lord to be my helper, He will not deny me, because it is my one desire to do His will and glorify His name. I am weak, but in depending wholly upon Him, I always obtain strength. In laying my burden on the Burden-bearer, I always find comfort and strength and hope. This is my great desire—to find abiding rest at His feet. While I keep firm hold of His hand, He leads me safely. He hears and sees everything that we do and say, and He will give strength to all who will walk humbly before Him in a perfect way. The living God shall be the joy and rejoicing of my soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 7)
I see no other way for us to glorify God as a people than by constantly reaching a higher standard until at last we reach the place where Christ stands. For years I have contemplated the heights that we might reach if the burden of self did not hinder us.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 8)
My brother, I want so much to see you standing where you can say, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God,”—not for the things of God, but for God Himself. [Psalm 42:1.] I greatly desire that you shall have the true God, not a God of your imagination, or of speculative philosophy. It is the true and living God for whom you should thirst. God invites you to draw near to Him. Humble your heart before Him, and if you will grasp His hand of infinite strength and power, He will be to you a shield against the enemy. But it is only in becoming a little child, to be educated in spiritual, sanctified, holy things, that you can break the power of the enemy. When you gain this experience, when as a little child you place yourself in God’s hands, determined to do His will at all times and in all places, He will manifest Himself to you as your sufficiency, the chiefest among ten thousand, and the One in whom you may always trust.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 9)
This is an experience that you have yet to obtain. Will you not make a strong, determined effort to get away from your condition of spiritual dwarfage? Never allow yourself to be drawn into discussion regarding the personality of God. On this subject, silence is eloquence.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 10)
“Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.”“For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die, but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” [1 Peter 2:11; Romans 8:13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 11)
My brother, Satan will try to hold his victory over you. You can expect nothing else; but God is stronger than Satan. Do not trust in yourself; trust in Christ Jesus; He is your only hope. Then you will not be as you have often been represented to me—like the slender willow, moved to and fro by every breeze.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 12)
Now is your opportunity to clear away the rubbish from your experience. Now is your opportunity to learn from Christ the lessons that will endure through time and eternity. To those who receive Him, Christ gives power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name. Over and over again repeat the words, “My heart is fixed, my heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.” [See Psalm 112:7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 13)
Upon the leaders in the medical missionary work there rests the responsibility of clearing away from the foundation the hay, wood, and stubble which they have been bringing to it. Gather to your soul the gems of truth that will grow brighter and brighter under the influence of the purifying fires. When you are convinced that you must die to self, that you must have an experimental religion, God can work with you. The conviction that you must have pure and undefiled religion—this is your safeguard. The soothing influences of the world will seek to delude you, but Christ will bind your soul up with His if you will humble yourself. Unless you are willing to humble yourself, you cannot stand on vantage ground.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 14)
True conviction will take possession of your heart if you do not resist it. This conviction must be allowed to do its work in your life. You have carried a number of your associate physicians with you in a false path. Some have awakened to their danger and want to be free. When you are, in heart and mind, what you should be, with the opportunities you have had, you will break the yoke that you have been binding upon others, and you will take Christ’s yoke upon you. O how I long to see you doing thorough work in breaking the yoke that Satan has induced you to wear. When you do this work, your determination will be to do good and be good.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 15)
Here are words given me to repeat to you: “Many prayers have been offered up for you by those who would rejoice to see you converted in mind, in thought, in writing. If others speak words that are harsh and unkind, remember that you have taken your stand with Christ, and that it is He who is insulted by the words spoken against a striving soul.”
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 16)
By our words we are to be justified or condemned. When in the final judgment we stand before the tribunal of God, it is our words that will justify or condemn us. Much more than we realize is involved in the matter of speech. Then, for Christ’s sake, my brother, let your lips be touched with a live coal from the divine altar. Utter only words of truth. Watch and pray, that your words and deeds may ever confess Christ. Let your words be seasoned with wisdom and purity.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 17)
By your words you have in the past done great mischief. The heart repentance and reform is known to God and to yourself. Let self die, let self be crucified, else you will continue to say many things that are not wise, not true. Remember that God hears every word you utter. Begin now the work of pruning your vineyard. You may do great good or great evil. Two ways are before you. You may, through the sanctification of the Spirit, soothe the souls of many. Through the working of the Spirit, you may not only make and maintain an unreserved surrender, but you may, if you cast out from your soul all selfish ambition, and take your place before Christ as a learner, redeem the time and call back the erring. Some will not hear, but if you will humble yourself, you will be lifted up by the hand of Him who is fully able to save. He will enable you to make restoration as far as lies in your power.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 18)
This work is now before you. Will you seek earnestly to save souls ready to perish. If you will quench the spirit of warfare, you may save souls that are ready to die because your ways and your works have misled them. It is your privilege to set their feet in the path of righteousness. Will you not take your stand on the platform of eternal truth, that all who know you may take knowledge of you that you have been with Jesus and are learning His lessons. You may preserve a brother’s character spotless, or you may smear it with misstatements, as you have done in the past.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 19)
Now is your time to make a generous, noble confession of Christianity, to avow your belief in the validity of the truth. No longer halt between two opinions. If God be God, follow Him, and if Baal, follow him. Do not be turned aside by what others have said or done. The responsibility of their course of action rests upon them. If they fail of doing their appointed work, the sin is not yours, but theirs.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 20)
I pray that you may be a true medical missionary. I pray that you may be able to say of Christ, “He is my strength and my redeemer.” [See Psalm 19:14.] Those who love and fear God, those who have strong confidence in Him have His mercy to save them, His power to defend them, His wisdom to guide them in safe paths.
(19LtMs, Lt 283, 1904, 21)
Lt 285, 1904
Kellogg, Sister [W. K.] College View, Nebraska September 25, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister Kellogg,—
I wish to write you a few lines, to say that I should have been home some weeks ago, had it not been for important meetings, which I had promised to attend. We are now at the last of these meetings; but while I was in Battle Creek, I promised to return and spend a week there. I feel that I must keep this promise. After this I shall go to California, by way of San Diego.
(19LtMs, Lt 285, 1904, 1)
I very much desire to be at home, to see if my presence would be of any help to Marian in her sickness.
(19LtMs, Lt 285, 1904, 2)
I do not think that it would be at all advisable for Marian to spend the winter in Battle Creek. The cold winter weather might put an end to her life. I have thought that perhaps it might be best for her to spend the winter months in San Diego. The climate there is very mild, and she could stay in the Sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 285, 1904, 3)
Poor Marian! I would do anything that I possibly could to help her. I fear that should she go to Battle Creek for the winter, the consequences might be fatal.
(19LtMs, Lt 285, 1904, 4)
It must be a great strain upon you to see Marian in her distress, and if you find that the tax is too severe, do not remain. I would be very glad to see you before you leave St. Helena, and were it not that I have promised to return to Battle Creek, I should go straight home. But it may be that you will still be at St. Helena when we reach there. I hope so.
(19LtMs, Lt 285, 1904, 5)
God is in every place, and I have hope that Marian will recover. I send you these few lines that you may know how we are situated and what our plans are.
(19LtMs, Lt 285, 1904, 6)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 285, 1904, 7)
Lt 287, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. College View, Nebraska September 21, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5Bio 353. Dr. J. H. Kellogg Dear Brother,—
I ought to have answered your letter before this, but travelling from place to place and attending meetings has taken all my strength. The camp-meeting at Omaha was a very large one, and one Sabbath afternoon I spoke to over fifteen hundred people, among them many Germans and Scandinavians. I found that in order to make my words heard in all parts of the tent, I must breathe deeply and speak slowly. Were I to speak quickly, my throat and lungs would suffer. And when I speak slowly, the hearers are given an opportunity to take in sentence after sentence and to gather up ideas that would otherwise be lost.
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 1)
I spoke three times during my stay at the Omaha camp-meeting. I was glad to be able to speak to the people assembled there.
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 2)
I entreat you to take hold firmly of the hand of the One who can deliver you from the temptations of the enemy. His promise is that if you will lay hold upon His strength, you will make peace with Him. Place your feet on vantage ground. Christ’s strong right hand will uphold you. His efficiency will be your strength. “Abide in Me, and I in you,” He says. “As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me.
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 3)
“I am the vine, ye are the branches; he that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without Me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in Me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 4)
“If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples. As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you; continue ye in My love.
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 5)
“If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 6)
“This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:4-14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 7)
I present these precious words to you as truth. “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.] By sin man separated himself from God, but the stream of divine benevolence never ceased to flow earthward, increasing in volume with successive ages. And when the fulness of time had come, Deity poured forth the healing flood of heavenly grace in one great gift of love. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 8)
If you will put your whole trust in Christ, if you will come to Him just as you are, casting your helpless soul upon Him, He will receive you. And when you are one with Christ, you will begin to see ways out of your entanglement. But do not come out of any troublous matter crookedly. Come out holding firmly to the hand of Christ. The Lord will certainly help, strengthen, and uphold you if you will work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God who is working in you, to will and to do of His good pleasure. When you take your position on the sure foundation of eternal truth, Satan will make every effort to hinder you and block your way. But the Lord has wrought for you, and He will continue to work in your behalf if you will be His consecrated channel.
(19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, 9)
Lt 289, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. College View, Nebraska September 23, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 136. Dr. J. H. Kellogg My dear Brother,—
In the night season I have been conversing with you, telling you that the Lord would have you now, just now, plant your feet upon the true foundation, the foundation upon which we took our position more than half a century ago.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 1)
The Lord would have the medical missionary work be to the cause of truth as the hands and arms to the body. You have tried to make the medical missionary work the whole body, but in this you have not succeeded. Let this work occupy its appointed place, just as God designed it should. Let the ministers of the gospel and the medical missionary workers blend in Christian unity. It is not the will of God that the medical missionary work shall be all and in all. He designs that the evangelical work and the medical work shall blend in perfect unity. This can be, and every feature of the work can be complete in occupying its proper place in the body.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 2)
I say to you, Dr. Kellogg, that you are to come out of your entanglement. I shall not try, Dr. Kellogg, to explain just how you can do this. God will take His whole work in hand, every phase of it, and will carry it forward wondrously, if men will not interfere by bringing in their human inventions, drawing wrong threads into the pattern.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 3)
Medical missionary work is included in the work of the gospel ministry. This is God’s plan. No medical fraternity is complete without the gospel ministry. But things have become confused in your mind, and you are not able of yourself to disentangle the threads. Just take your position at the feet of Christ as a helpless soul, who needs the restoring power of the great Medical Missionary, the chief of all physicians. Grasp His hands, and His power can and will restore you. But you cannot explain your position or restore yourself. Were you to attempt to do this, your brain would reel and your mind would become more and more confused. Just cast your helpless soul on Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 4)
Do not link up with worldly men. And yet, through your success as a physician, you and your associates are to exert an influence for good upon the most influential men. Who gives you this success? The Lord Jesus Christ. When you make Him first and last and all and in all in your thoughts and your practices, He will heal and restore you. To receive and obey the teachings of Him who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life is to place yourself on His side. You will then stand on vantage ground. To all who believe in Him, Christ gives power to become the sons of God. And all who truly believe in Him will reveal the faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 5)
Christ’s disciples are to train themselves to follow, not to lead. Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. Satan will be loath to lose his prey, but the Lord is stronger than Satan and all his evil angels. If you will not press in to take the lead, and to follow your own way, if you will walk in Christ’s steps, this confusion of mind will leave you. As you are now, you need to be led in spiritual things. May the Lord God of heaven strengthen you with all spiritual understanding, that you may be a victor. Satan has been playing the game of life for your soul, but Christ will be your efficiency, your strong helper, if you will now do just as you have said—surrender, entirely surrender. I accept your statement and regard you as one who has surrendered, putting yourself away from every agency, through the power of the grace given.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 6)
Work upward; with mind and heart and soul, work upward. Christ’s followers are to train themselves to practice His ways. As those who have surrendered all to God, and have placed themselves wholly on the Lord’s side, they are to work for the present and for the future.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 7)
I cannot endure the thought of your coming short of being complete in Christ. He has bought you with the price of His own blood. He will accept you and save you if you will follow Him. Work with an eye single to the glory of God. With Christ’s efficiency to prepare the way, there is an open path to heaven before you. You can in character put on Christ and be a true representative of Him. You can devise and plan in harmony with His will.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 8)
I am given these words for you: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give thee 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.] Please do all honor to Him who has loved you, and given Himself for you, that you should not perish, but have everlasting life. Think of it, my brother,—eternal life in the kingdom of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 9)
When you humble yourself, the Lord will lift you up. But He cannot use an exalted, self-sufficient man. Christ’s disciples are not to link up with worldly men. Their lives are not to bear the stamp of worldliness. You cost too much, my brother, to sell yourself to the world. You cannot afford to make merchandise of yourself.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 10)
“All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” [Matthew 7:12.] This is the rule that we must follow here, if we would be able to face men in the judgment, when all will be rewarded or punished according to their works.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 11)
Christ can unite with those only who will unite with Him. Those who receive the truth are to make a surrender to Christ of all that they have and are. Then they are adopted into the family of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 12)
Be not in any way discouraged when you hear strange reports, which have no truth in them. God says to His people, “Look not on the man whom I am trying to place on vantage ground, but look on Me. I have bought him with a price. Satan has desired his soul; he has sought to make him an apostate, as he himself is; but I have hold of his hand. If he will be led by Me, he will come forth as gold purified seven times. Look not on the mistakes and errors of this man, but look on Me. If he will do My will, he shall be established under My gospel, which alone can secure pardon and peace.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 13)
“Let the words of all be well chosen. Let the tongues that have worked eagerly to create mischief be careful in their choice of words. Never, never discourage a soul who is trying to climb the mountains of difficulty that lie in his pathway. Let the accuser of the brethren be rebuked. If you would have an entrance into the holy city, you must surrender your own hearts to God, to be purged, cleansed, refined, purified.”
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 14)
Unless thorough conversion shall take place in the hearts of our people, they will view things incorrectly and will be led to work at cross purposes with God. The Lord calls for a thorough work in all spiritual lines. Saith the Lord, I have not found thy works perfect before Me. Remember, therefore, how thou hast received, and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon you. God calls for thorough and decided reform in all who profess to believe in Him. This is the work that it is presented to me must be done in our churches. Ministers and people would now do well to do thorough work and cease criticizing others and repeating discouraging reports, which weaken the hands of those who will do their appointed work if their brethren will not block their way. Let the work begin now and be carried forward until the change for which God calls is effected.
(19LtMs, Lt 289, 1904, 15)
Lt 291, 1904
Hayward, O. M. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California October 12, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in MM 292-293; LLM 49-50. Dr. O. M. Hayward Dear Brother,—
Your letter came last evening and was put under my door. I woke at two and rose and dressed. I then read your letter and will now try to write a few lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 1)
I do not think that we had any conversation in regard to locating the sanitarium on the farm that has been purchased for school purposes. If you had mentioned the matter to me, I would have opened my mind to you freely. Matters cannot always be satisfactorily explained by letter. I do not wish you to suppose that we would urge you to locate near the school merely for the advantages of co-operation. We ask you to consider well the natural advantages of the place. We are glad to know that there is a possibility that the Boscobel school buildings may yet be secured. If you can rent for a time it will be easier to decide on a permanent location later.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 2)
If the Lord has ever spoken by me, He speaks when I say that the workers engaged in educational lines, in ministerial lines, and in medical missionary lines must stand as a unit, all laboring under the supervision of God, one helping the other, each blessing each.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 3)
I have a deep interest in the work that you are doing in Nashville. I pray that the sanitarium shall be placed where God would have it. Be guarded on one point. Do not place it where the noise of the street cars can be heard; for this would retard the recovery of the sick. Quiet and peace are of the highest value in a sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 4)
I have been instructed that our schools and sanitariums should be out of the cities, but not so far out that the work cannot be carried forward advantageously. Those connected with them are to labor with earnest alacrity. The work that is done under the ministration of the Holy Spirit, out of love for God and for humanity, will bear the signature of God and will make its impression on human minds.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 5)
We do not look upon you, my brother, as a man who has put only half of his heart into this grand work. We take the opposite view of this, knowing that you put heart, mind, soul, and strength into your work. The only fear that I have had in regard to you is that you will try to carry too heavy a burden. Those who put their whole souls into the medical missionary work, who labor untiringly in peril, in privation, in watchings oft, in weariness and painfulness, are in danger of forgetting that they must be faithful guardians of their own mental and physical powers. They are not to allow themselves to be overtaxed. But they are filled with zeal and earnestness, and they sometimes move inadvisedly, putting themselves under too heavy a strain. Unless such workers make a change, the result will be that sickness will come upon them, and they will break down.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 6)
While God’s workers are to be filled with a noble enthusiasm, and with a determination to follow the example of the divine worker, the great Medical Missionary, they are not to crowd too many things into the day’s work. If they do, they will soon have to leave the work entirely, broken down because they have tried to carry too heavy a load. My brother, it is right for you to make the best use of the advantages given you of God in earnest efforts for the relief of suffering and for the saving of souls. But do not sacrifice your health.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 7)
We have a calling as much higher than common, selfish interests as the heavens are higher than the earth. But this thought should not lead the willing, hardworking servants of God to carry all the burdens they can possibly bear without periods of rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 8)
How grand it would be if, among all who are engaged in carrying out God’s wonderful plan for the salvation of souls, there were no idlers! How much more would be accomplished if every one would say, “God holds me accountable to be wide-awake and to let my efforts speak in favor of the truth I profess to believe. I am to be a practical worker, not a daydreamer.” It is because there are so many daydreamers that true workers have to carry double burdens.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 9)
It is the part of a medical missionary to minister to the needs of the soul as well as to the needs of the body. The precious truth of Christ’s power to save, spoken of in season, will give hope and courage and may save both soul and body. The Lord waters and watches over the seed thus sown. The promises of the Bible, repeated to those who are sick and discouraged, will be the means of saving many souls. The Holy Spirit co-operates with the worker who labors in the fear and love of God. God gives such workers wisdom and success.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 10)
We need as workers to keep looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. As workers together with God, we are to draw souls to Christ. We are to remember that we each have a special part to act in the Master’s service. O how much good the members of the church might accomplish if they realized the responsibility resting upon them to point those with whom they come in contact to the Redeemer. When church members shall disinterestedly engage in the work given them of God, a much stronger influence will be exerted in behalf of souls ready to die, and much stronger efforts will be put forth in medical missionary lines. When every member of the church does his part faithfully, the workers in the field will be helped and encouraged, and the cause of God will move forward with power. Let the ministers of the gospel and the workers in medical missionary lines labor in perfect harmony.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 11)
May God help you, my brother, to be cheerful, to look on the bright side. Study the twelfth chapter of Romans. It points out the unity, the sympathy, the kindness, the unselfish love that is to exist amongst God’s workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 12)
“As 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 every one members one of another.”“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 necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you; bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.”“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” [Verses 4, 5, 9-15, 21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 291, 1904, 13)
Lt 293, 1904
Belden, Brother and Sister [S. T.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California October 17, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 5Bio 350-352. Dear Brother and Sister Belden,—
We have just returned from our trip to the East. On our way from Melrose, Massachusetts, we attended a camp-meeting at Middletown, Connecticut. I had hoped that I might see Sarah Belden and Lillie Gilbert at this meeting, and I wrote them that I would attend, asking them to meet me there. But for some reason they did not come, and so I did not see them.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 1)
We had a good meeting at Middletown. I could only remain during the first part of it; for I was on my way to Battle Creek, where an appointment had been given out that I would speak in the Tabernacle on Tuesday afternoon.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 2)
You will remember Middletown as the place at which the paper Present Truth was first published. We were then living at Rocky Hill, in your father’s house, and I remember that my husband wrote his editorials, while sitting in a splint-bottomed chair. Then he would walk to Middletown, a distance of eight miles, to the place of publication. When the papers came from the press, they were folded on a table in a room in Colonel Chamberlain’s house. Then we put them on the floor and bowed before God in prayer, asking His special blessing upon them, entreating Him to let His Holy Spirit accompany the copies as they were sent out. Our prayers were offered with weeping, and yet with rejoicing.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 3)
You must be quite familiar with this history. It is very fresh in my mind. I related some of it in my discourses, and it was listened to with eager interest.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 4)
The Middletown meeting was a profitable one to all who had ears to hear. Sabbath was a precious day. The tent was well filled at the afternoon service. After the meeting, one of our ministers said, “I fear there will not be so many out tomorrow; for Connecticut is the Blue-law State, and the people may think they are breaking the Sunday laws by attending a camp-meeting service instead of going to their own church.” I said, “Instead of talking unbelief, let us tell the Lord how greatly we desire that the people may hear the truth.”
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 5)
The next afternoon the tent was filled to overflowing, and several young men were kept busy bringing extra seats from the smaller tents. As many chairs as possible were placed in the aisles, and even then many people sat on the outside.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 6)
The Lord gave me a message to bear to the people both on Sabbath and Sunday. I bore a straight, direct testimony. I feel very grateful for the strength and the freedom that I enjoyed while attending these meetings at Middletown. I felt the inspiration of the Spirit of God upon me. I brought in the subject of temperance, showing how necessary temperance is in this age of the world. I told the people that now, in 1904, the world is becoming as it was in the days of Noah. Christ declares that this is a sign that the end of the world is near.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 7)
“When He was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, He answered them, and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation! neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 8)
“And He said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it. And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there; go not after them, nor follow them. For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall also the Son of man be in his day. But first He must suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 9)
“And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; but the same day that Lot went out of Sodom, it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.” [Luke 17:20-30.]
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 10)
We are now to be constantly in readiness for the coming of Christ. We are to prepare our souls for the great day of the Lord. But there are few who realize the importance of this preparation—the preparation to which Christ referred in the words, “The kingdom of God is within you.” [Verse 21.] He of whom these words can be spoken is in harmony with all the principles and laws of the kingdom of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 11)
The people of the world must hear the message for this time. This message is to be most earnestly lived and most clearly proclaimed by Seventh-day Adventists. We have no time to lose.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 12)
This Spirit of the Lord rested upon me as I bore my testimony in Middletown. During the first part of the meeting there were not many ministers present, but they came afterward and were present on Monday for counsel in regard to the future work of the Southern New England Conference. We came together early Monday morning, and I again bore my testimony in regard to our work and the light that the Lord has given me. I spoke in regard to the Melrose Sanitarium and told how the beautiful property on which the institution is now established was purchased for a very low price. The Sanitarium property consist of four large buildings and forty acres of land. This property is situated in the midst of a park of three thousand five hundred acres, which belongs to the State and on which no buildings can be put up. The buildings were originally used as a hotel. At one time there was another building, large and elegant, the erection of which cost an enormous sum of money.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 13)
When the attention of our brethren was first called to this property, they knew that the price would be so high that they could not possibly purchase it. But not long after, the building which had cost so much was burned to the ground, and the four remaining ones, with the forty acres of land, were offered for sale for forty-four thousand dollars. They were purchased by our brethren, and the sanitarium work at that time carried on in South Lancaster was at once transferred to Melrose.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 14)
The whole transaction was one of the most remarkable that we have ever heard of. The situation of the Sanitarium property is one of the most favorable that I have ever seen for this work. The spacious lawns, the noble trees, the beauty of the scenery all around answer to the representations shown me of what our sanitariums ought to be. Everything is attractive to the eye and refreshing to the senses. Right in front of the main building there is a large, beautiful lake called Spot Pond. This lake supplies the city of Boston with water and is most carefully guarded from contamination. No boating or bathing is allowed in it.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 15)
The roads through the Park are very well kept, and the scenery is lovely. I rode out every day, and I cannot find words to describe the beauty of what I saw. I enjoyed looking at the many different kinds of tress in the Park, but most of all I enjoyed looking at the noble pine. There are medicinal properties in the fragrance of these trees. “Life, life,” my husband used to say when riding amongst the pines. “Breathe deep, Ellen; fill your lungs with the fragrant, life-giving atmosphere.”
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 16)
There was about six thousand dollars worth of furniture in the buildings when they were purchased. Among this furniture there were many washstands, bureaus, and bedsteads of black walnut, and many fine hair mattresses, which only needed renovating.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 17)
These advantages meant much to those in charge of the sanitarium work; for they had to count every penny. The wealthy people in South Lancaster who purchased the Sanitarium property there gave the price asked, and then told our brethren that they could have the building if they would move it away. The offer was accepted, and the material in this building is now stored at Melrose and will be used sometime in the erection of another building, which is greatly needed.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 18)
I presented these things in the meeting before Dr. Read, Dr. Hare, Brethren Daniells, Cottrell, and Edwards, and several other ministers, and begged them to appreciate the advantage that this beautiful Sanitarium property is to our people. I begged them to encourage Brother and Sister Nicola, who are in charge of the Melrose Sanitarium, and who are both competent, God-fearing physicians and medical missionaries.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 19)
We took the train that morning for Battle Creek, changing cars at Springfield, Massachusetts. At Battle Creek, we found several at the station to meet us, and we were given a hearty welcome. We were driven at once to the Sanitarium and were given two of the best rooms in the institution. The next morning I spoke to the patients in the parlor. I had freedom in dwelling upon the simplicity of truth and its great power to transform all who come to Christ in faith. I dwelt upon the precious assurance given to all who follow Christ in humility and trustfulness. “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find,” the Saviour declares. [Matthew 7:7.] We need plain, simple, unvarnished truth. This is the only panacea for weary, sin-sick souls. Pure, unvarnished truth is the power of God unto salvation, able to convict and convert souls.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 20)
After the meeting Dr. Kellogg introduced me to some of the guests at the Sanitarium, and I was surprised to see how powerfully the words spoken in simplicity and earnestness had affected them. All, whether they be believers or unbelievers, may find comfort and hope and joy and light in the Holy Spirit, if they will be taught as God’s little children. There are many, many in the world who will be converted when the truth is set before them. There are many who are now regarded as heathen, who, when the truth is presented to them in love and simplicity, will be converted, and believe, and be saved.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 21)
The next morning I spoke to the nurses and helpers, and the place of meeting was full. The Lord gave me great freedom as I spoke once more of the glad tidings of the Redeemer’s love. The love of Christ, shown by good works, begets love in the hearts of others. All true evangelical work is a demonstration of the power of God through His gospel of salvation. As Christ is received as the sin-pardoning Saviour, the power of God is revealed in saving perishing souls. By holding forth the Word of life, we are to win souls to Christ. Thus the saving power of the truth will be seen. The healing grace of Christ will be manifest in the changed lives of men and women.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 22)
I was asked to speak in the Tabernacle that day at one o’clock, as that was the hour at which all could best assemble. I consented, expecting to see two or three hundred present. What was my surprise to see twenty-five hundred present. Most of those who came did not receive the word till some time during that same morning.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 23)
The meeting in the Tabernacle was an excellent one, because the Spirit of the Lord impressed hearts and minds. The Lord gave me strength to speak to the large congregation. I know that impressions were made upon hearts, which, if cherished, would lead many to a true understanding of the truth as it is in Jesus.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 24)
The great Medical Missionary left the heavenly courts and came to this world to save sinners. He “was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” [John 1:14.] He sympathized with suffering humanity. He went about doing good, feeding the hungry and healing the sick, by His loving deeds showing how those who receive Him must work.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 25)
In like manner His ambassadors are to preach the gospel. We are called upon to reveal His pitying love for the lost and perishing sheep of His pasture.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 26)
As I spoke, my mind was full of the precious things of the Spirit of the Lord. I was strongly urged to remain over the Sabbath, and I finally consented. But Willie came that night from Canada and assured me that I must fill my appointment at Omaha. He assured me that the large number of people who had gathered in camp-meeting in that city would be greatly disappointed if I were not present to speak to them on the closing Sabbath and Sunday of their meeting. So I decided to go on to Omaha, promising to return to Battle Creek after attending the meeting to be held in College View.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 27)
According to my promise I returned to Battle Creek, spending several days there. A week ago last Monday we left Battle Creek for Chicago, on our way to California. We were obliged to spend several hours in Chicago, and Willie got a carriage and took me to several places of interest in the city, where different lines of our work are being carried on. We rode out several miles to visit a brother and sister who are conducting a hygienic restaurant and in this way gaining an access to souls. Their children, married and unmarried, are engaged with them in this work. One daughter was sick, and we talked and prayed with her.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 28)
About eight o’clock in the evening we went to the station, and as we had still another hour to wait before we could get aboard the train, I went into the ladies’ room and lay down on a lounge for a little while.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 29)
We came home on the tourist car. On the way our train was delayed for lack of an extra engine, and we found that we could not possibly reach St. Helena before the Sabbath. So we decided to stop at Reno over the Sabbath. Ella and Mabel are there at present. Ella is teaching church school. I spoke to the church on the Sabbath, and the Lord blessed me.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 30)
Saturday evening we once more took the train and reached home Sunday evening.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 31)
With much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 293, 1904, 32)
Lt 295, 1904
Ford, Brother; Spire, Brother “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California October 21, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brethren Ford and Spire,—
W. C. White has allowed me to read the letter he is sending you in today’s mail. I would say to you, move carefully and cautiously.
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 1)
I have a letter partially written to Brother Palmer, and I will soon send you some things I am writing regarding the duties and obligations of church members and their relations one to another. The Lord reproves the church for the indifference and the apathy that the members manifest one to another. While in this condition, they are unable clearly to discern what they should do.
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 2)
Until everything has been done for the reformation of the one thought to be in error, not one step should be taken toward severing him from church membership. The love and the practice of the truth would bring into the church a spirit far different to that now seen.
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 3)
Never can a genuine peace be maintained in the church until the truth as it is in Jesus abides in the hearts of the members. Christianity cannot be practiced without a transformation of character. Morality cannot be maintained without a pure religious experience.
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 4)
Many are trying to gather fruit who are unwilling to put forth the labor necessary for its cultivation. It is impossible to produce a blossom upon a dry, dead pole. The living tree must be cared for and carefully grafted before the choice fruit can be gathered.
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 5)
Why should we spend our money for that which is not bread, and our labor for that which satisfieth not? “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” [James 3:17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 6)
Bear in mind that we are the church militant, not yet triumphant. There can be no peace without the abiding Spirit of Christ. No peace can come to any one, except through the cross. Christ, as the truth, must be enthroned in mind and heart before He can take His position as Prince of Peace.
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 7)
I will endeavor to write more soon. Do your duty faithfully, but if you have not the abiding peace of Christ, make no movement until you have sought and received it. Please heed this caution.
(19LtMs, Lt 295, 1904, 8)
Lt 296, 1904
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W. NP October 1904 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 35-36; 1MR 168. + Dear Brethren Daniells and Prescott,—
After we left you at College View, many things urged themselves upon my mind. Years ago, before going to Australia, I wrote something in regard to the warning that must be given to the world. At that time I was given instruction that as we approach the end, there will be large gatherings in our cities, as there has recently been in St. Louis, and that preparations must be made to present the truth at these gatherings. When Christ was upon this earth, He took advantage of such opportunities. Wherever a large number of people were gathered for any purpose, His voice was heard, clear and distinct, giving His message. And as a result, after His crucifixion and ascension, thousands were converted in a day. The seed sown by Christ sank deep into hearts and germinated; and when the disciples received the gift of the Holy Spirit, the harvest was gathered in.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 1)
The disciples went forth and preached the Word with such power that fear fell upon their opposers, and they dared not do that which they would have done had not the evidence been so plain that God was working.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 2)
At every large gathering some of our ministers should be in attendance. They should work wisely to obtain a hearing and to get the light of truth before as many as possible. God desires the members of His church to do all in their power to make known the wonderful truths entrusted to them. He would have His witnesses cheerful and courageous amidst the cares and perplexities of life. The likeness of Christ is to be graven on the heart. As we draw nearer and nearer to Him, our very faces will reflect His image. The lives of those in whose hearts Christ abides will be filled with sacred, holy joy; for He has healing for all sorrow. There is healing in His wings. He brings the peace that passes all understanding.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 3)
We should improve every such opportunity as that presented by the St. Louis Fair. At all such gatherings there should be present men whom God can use. Leaflets containing the light of present truth should be scattered among the people like the leaves of autumn. To many who attend these gatherings, these leaflets would be as the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 4)
I send you this, my brethren, that you may give it to others. Those who go forth to proclaim the truth shall be blessed by Him who has given them the burden of proclaiming this truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 5)
Our large books should have a wider circulation. The words “Ye are the light of the world” [Matthew 5:14] must have a much clearer fulfilment in the lives of Seventh-day Adventists than they have yet had. Every line of our work should be carried forward in a way that will recommend the truth to those who hear. No selfish act is to be seen. No thread of dishonesty is to be drawn into the pattern.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 6)
The time has come when, as never before, Seventh-day Adventists are to arise and shine, because their light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon them.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 7)
*****
Decided warnings are given in the Word of God regarding the choice of companions. We should not link up with those who, though they have had the light for years, choose the society of those who daily dishonor God, those who turn their faces from Christ. There are those who, by unholy companionship with men who dishonor God, are crucifying the Son of God afresh and putting Him to open shame. They show contempt for the One whom they have been taught to love and respect. They bear witness to the world that they count the sacrifice of the Son of God a subject unworthy of their attention. This witness they bear before the heavenly universe and before fallen human beings. Upon such ones the blessing of God cannot rest. They are treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 8)
The Lord has shown His love for the world by the gift of His only begotten Son. He gave Him up to a cruel death, “that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”“God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believeth on Him is not condemned; but he that believeth not on Him is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of the Father. And this is their condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds are evil. For every one 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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 9)
It is a strange and sorrowful fact that so many are beguiled by worldly position and worldly wealth. They allow worldly inducements to make them enemies of Christ. In order to obtain the riches of the world, they turn away from the riches of heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 10)
Seek in every way to help those who are walking and working in blindness; for thus you may save souls from death. Break down the wall of partition that for years has existed between medical missionary workers and the workers in the ministry. God requires His children to make straight paths for their feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way through misapprehension and perplexity. “Blessed is the man whose transgressions are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.” [Psalm 32:1.] Confession of sin places man on vantage ground. Have we not seen enough of indifference, of disunion, of strife? Let every one do his best to cast out of the church that which has brought about these things.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 11)
“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 by the flesh. 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.” [Jude 20-25.]
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 12)
There must be a stronger determination to be of one heart and mind, to draw together. In unity there is strength. Unbelief and harsh judgment must cease through the ministration of the Holy Spirit. The gospel message is not to be looked upon as inferior to the medical missionary work. God calls upon every soul to humble his heart before Him and then to stand in the Lord Jesus Christ, a savor of life unto life.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 13)
We are not to follow cunningly devised fables. We are to take our stand upon the foundation truths that will bear the test of trial. We are to remember that we are not our own, that we have been bought with a price, and that we are to glorify God in all we do and say. The light of the sacrifice that Christ has made for us is never, never to become dim, but is to influence all our religious experience. In the fullest sense of the word, the blood-bought soul is the property of Christ. And yet we cannot be saved unless our lives bear the sign of voluntary surrender to Christ’s service.
(19LtMs, Lt 296, 1904, 14)
Lt 297, 1904
Palmer, W. O. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California October 28, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in CD 354; 2MCP 387-388. + Dear Brother Palmer,—
I have a message for you from the Lord. I have always had an intense desire that you shall perfect a Christian character. You will need to guard carefully your physical health. You are now suffering from infirmities which are the result of a violation of the laws of life in your eating and drinking and in your reckless course of action. The Lord desires you to depend on Him as your only hope and to set a right example before others. I ask you to be very careful in regard to your diet. Let all who sit down at your table see upon it well-cooked, hygienic, palatable food. Be very careful in regard to your eating and drinking, Brother Palmer, so that you will not continue to have a diseased body. Eat regularly, and eat only food that is free from grease. You do not at all times treat your stomach wisely. And then, when your digestive organs are out of order, the enemy comes in and causes you to see things in a wrong light.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 1)
Obey the principles of health reform, and educate others to do this. The health of the mind is to a large degree dependent upon the health of the body, and the health of the body is dependent upon the way in which the living machinery is treated. Eat only that food which will keep your stomach in the most healthy condition.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 2)
You need to learn more thoroughly the philosophy of taking proper care of yourself in regard to the matter of diet. Arrange your work so that you can have your meals at regular hours. You must exercise a special care in this matter. Remember that to live the truth as it is in Jesus requires much self-discipline.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 3)
My brother, I would not lead you into false paths. My hand shall ever be stretched out to take your hand when you are trying to press into the strait and narrow way that leads to the city of God. The words of Christ are plain: “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”“Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” [Matthew 7:14, 13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 4)
This is Christ’s warning to you. I am very desirous that you will be an overcomer through the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony that comes from a living experience in spiritual things.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 5)
Christ loves His erring children, although they often dishonor Him and bring reproach upon His cause. I would encourage you in every effort you make to become the noble witness that Christ desires you to be. When you are this, you will give the world no occasion to reproach you. Believe, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and be true to principle. Keep clear of speculation. Follow closely in the steps of Christ. Never enter into worldly business with unbelievers, thinking that thus you will succeed, but press on in the way of eternal life. Do not think that repudiating the sacred truth will give you a better showing. Every time this is done, it will bring you into unequal warfare, giving the enemy a chance to overcome you. Instead of repudiating the reasons of our faith, you should feel that you would be repudiating reason if you did not sacredly cherish the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 6)
I know that the most trying temptations will come to us, but lift your mind to the Lord Jesus Christ, and believe in Him. Study His Word diligently, and practice it faithfully. Place yourself strictly in harmony with all the teaching of the Word of God. To cherish noble principles is to become to you as second nature, because you are living out the Word of God. Thus you will gain strength to resist the enemy.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 7)
I have been commissioned to have a care for your soul, and this commission is still resting upon me. There are many delusions in the world today. You will find that many influences will try to draw you away from Christ. But the Saviour has a tender care for you, because at times you do try very hard to walk in His steps.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 8)
Let not a vestige of unbelief enter your soul. Be careful how you use the talent of means, so that you may have something with which to advance the work that so much needs to be done. You have in the past shown a lively interest in the establishment of the school with which Brethren Magan and Sutherland are connected. This school is in the right place. While those connected with it are struggling to make a beginning, help them in every way possible. You can in many ways relieve the situation. Take it upon yourself to help them.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 9)
If you had invested in the advancement of the cause of God the money which in the past, when in company with worldlings, you have let slip out of your hands, you would have secured for yourself a treasure in the heavens that faileth not. I ask you to work henceforth on a higher, holier plane, by helping the cause and work of God in every way possible. Thus only can you lay up treasure in heaven.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 10)
Human philosophy has to do with the lower things of truth. The highest philosophy has to do with the most sacred things, with faith in Him who gave His life as a sacrifice for the human family. It is this philosophy that is to help us to do service for the Master. In every way possible we are to strive to lessen the moral evils in our world. We are to take to the suffering the balm of heavenly consolation, working to a purpose to relieve their temporal and spiritual necessities.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 11)
O my brother, be careful, be careful to honor God in your life now; for there are trials before every one. Those who do not realize the necessity of honoring God now will be taken in Satan’s snare.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 12)
The faith that works by love and purifies the soul is a living, growing faith, full of trust and confidence. Keep your heart with all diligence. The apostle speaks of peace and joy in believing. “Wisdom’s ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.” [Proverbs 3:17.] Gladness of soul is a wonderful thing. When Christ abides in the soul, the words spoken will always be wise and helpful.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 13)
Ask for help from the divine source of help. You need it, in order that you may have health of body and mind. Live close to God. You need to be separated from all selfishness. Your mind needs to be sanctified and fed daily with the words of truth and righteousness.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 14)
“This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” [1 Timothy 1:15.] Talk it, pray it. He is able to save to the uttermost all who come to Him. Come to Him just as you are, and give yourself unreservedly to Him. When you have done this, you will be able to bear the testimony, “I know in whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed to Him against that day.” [2 Timothy 1:12.] The soul goes out of itself into abiding faith in Christ. By virtue of this blessed union with Christ, human beings are justified. Man is made a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. A living connection with Christ, the true vine, makes us fruitful branches. Christ sees the human agent striving, praying, believing, and He bestows upon him His divine efficiency.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 15)
I call upon you and your wife and daughter to become spiritual minded, redeemed by sovereign grace. You need to be drawn closer to Christ, in order that you may reveal Him to the world. In the past you have tried to manage matters yourself, and you have made many mistakes. I call upon you now to rise up in the strength of a noble purpose and honor God. Throw yourself on the royal clemency of Him who gave His life that you might be saved. In His strength you may redeem the past. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”“Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope; and hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” [Romans 8:1; 5:1-5.]
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 16)
Brother Palmer, cannot you do a little for the new school near Nashville? I remember that on your piazza there were strips of carpet. These strips of carpet might be of great advantage to those who are just beginning in a new place. I just mention this because you may not be able to think of anything that you can do to help. You may be able to interest others to help the workers in the school to begin their work. I shall exert all the influence in my power to advance the carrying forward of the work that God has appointed to be done there.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 17)
Since our return from the East, we have passed through a time of great anxiety, and I have not yet recovered from the strain. On our arrival in St. Helena, we found Sister Marian Davis very weak and low. We did all that we could to help her, but we could not do much. She died on Tuesday afternoon, the twenty-fifth of October, and was buried the next day in the St. Helena Cemetery. Her sister was with her during the last few weeks, and this was a great comfort to her. We feel that we can indeed say, “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.” [Revelation 14:13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 18)
We all felt Marian’s affliction very deeply, because we could do little to relieve it. But the weary sufferer is now at rest. I shall miss her much; for she has been with me for many years and has been a most faithful, efficient worker. But she is at rest, and I shall not mourn.
(19LtMs, Lt 297, 1904, 19)
Lt 299, 1904
Hare, Sister Armona, California October 31, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 313; RY 144-145; 7MR 154. My dear aged Sister,—
I am much grieved because you are sick and suffering. But cling to Him in whom you have loved and served these many years. He gave His own life for the world, and He loves every one who trusts in Him. He sympathizes with those who suffer under the depression of disease. He feels every pang of anguish that His loved ones feel. Just rest in His arms, and know that He is your Saviour and your very best friend, and that He will never leave nor forsake you. He has been your dependence for many years, and your soul may rest in hope.
(19LtMs, Lt 299, 1904, 1)
You will come forth with other faithful ones who have believed in Him, to praise Him with a voice of triumph. All you are expected to do is to rest in His love. Do not worry. Jesus loves you, and now when you are weak and suffering, He holds you in His arms, just as a loving father holds a little child. Trust in Him in whom you have believed. Has He not loved and cared for you all through your lifetime? Just rest in the precious promises given you.
(19LtMs, Lt 299, 1904, 2)
The great plan of mercy from the beginning of time is to have every afflicted soul trust in His love. Your safety at the present time, when your mind is tortured with doubt, is not to trust in feeling, but in the living God. All He asks of you is to put your trust in Him, acknowledging Him as your faithful Saviour, who loves you, and has forgiven you all your mistakes and errors.
(19LtMs, Lt 299, 1904, 3)
We honor God and our Lord Jesus Christ when we rest in His love. You are one of the Lord’s witnesses, whom He will never leave nor forsake. I am instructed to say to you, He has pardoned all your sins and put upon you the white robe of His righteousness. All He requires of you now is to rest in His love. He has you in His keeping. You have fought the battles of the Lord Jesus Christ, you have kept the faith, and henceforth there is laid up for you a crown of life, to be your reward in that day when life and immortality shall be given to all who have kept the faith and have not denied the Saviour’s name.
(19LtMs, Lt 299, 1904, 4)
That your mind is clouded is no evidence that Christ is not your precious Saviour. Now that the childhood of age has come upon you, He regards you as no less His child. Your religious life bears its testimony now as in the past. You have believed the Word of God and in perplexities and trials have acted according to that Word. Like the apostle you may say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of life, which the Lord the righteous Judge shall give me in that day, and not to me only, but also to all them that love His appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:7, 8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 299, 1904, 5)
Rest in Christ’s love, my sister. This is all that He requires of you. Look unto Jesus, not to yourself. Christ is the author and finisher of your faith. Trust the One who has helped you in the past to hold fast to the faith. In the hour of death Christ cried out, “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?” [Matthew 27:46.] Had God forsaken Him? No, no. Neither has He forsaken any soul who trusts in Him. He will bring them off victorious and give them the crown of life.
(19LtMs, Lt 299, 1904, 6)
Lt 301, 1904
Haskell, Brother and Sister Armona, California November 2, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 315; BTS 01/1905 and 02/1905 and 03/1905. Dear Brother and Sister Haskell,—
We left home last Friday morning for Southern California, intending to spend the Sabbath in Fresno. This we did, and on Sunday morning we came on to Hanford, thinking to spend the day visiting some old friends, and then to go on to Los Angeles by the evening train. We were driven out to Sister Grey’s, where we took dinner. When she heard that our tickets would be good for three days longer, she urged us so strongly to stay with her during that time, that we consented. We have been with her for two days now.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 1)
At family worship this morning we had a precious season of prayer. My soul was drawn out in longing for Sister Grey’s two sons. They were both present. When we first came, the elder one was away on a ranch that they have bought about forty miles from Armona. I fear and tremble for this young man, lest he become so absorbed in worldly business that he will forget his eternal interests.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 2)
I wish that Sister Grey could lay off some of the responsibilities that she has borne for so long. I fear that if she does not do this, her physical strength will give way. She has had threatenings of paralysis. She is now taking electrical treatments of some kind. She keeps stirring about, but at times she is in great danger.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 3)
We found that a series of meetings was in progress in Hanford and the surrounding districts. I spoke in Hanford on Sunday afternoon and again yesterday afternoon. The Lord gave me liberty, and I think that a good impression was made. I spoke of the work to be done in the South, and suggested ways in which our people here could help the laborers there. I told them that it is positively necessary that we become more deeply interested in the work that must be done in our world to prepare the way for the coming of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 4)
On Sunday I dwelt especially on the words of Christ, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 5)
I sought earnestly to carry the minds of those present above the things of this life to the things of eternity. I sought to impress them with the thought that those who are saved must now prepare for the heavenly mansions by washing their robes and making them white in the blood of the Lamb. I urged the fathers and mothers present to realize the duty resting upon them to train their children for God. I told them that this work is of infinitely more importance than all the advantages they might gain by undue devotion to the things of this world. Those parents who set their affections on the things of earth rob themselves and their children of a place in the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love Him. I pray that God will help those to whom I spoke to make the kingdom of God their first consideration, placing earthly interests in their proper position.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 6)
It was at an infinite sacrifice that Christ redeemed the human race. But in His parting conversation with His disciples, He made no reference to the suffering that He had endured and must yet endure. He did not speak of the humiliation that was before Him, but sought to bring to their minds that which would strengthen their faith, leading them to look forward to the joys that await the overcomer.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 7)
Christ spoke of His death, telling them that only by His death could they be saved. Adam sinned, and the whole of his posterity became sinners. Christ came to this world and died on the cross of Calvary, that human beings might not perish, but have everlasting life.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 8)
O how diligent and earnest and faithful we should be, in view of the great sacrifice that has been made for us. How earnestly we should strive to cease from sin and through Christ become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 9)
There can be no true prayer without true faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God. Prayer and faith are the arms by which the soul hangs upon the neck of infinite love and grasps the hand of infinite power. God does not recognize dumb children, as far as experience in His truth is concerned. Faith is an active, working power. The new-born faith in Christ is revealed by prayer and praise. Prayer is a relief and a comfort to the troubled soul. The sincere, humble suppliant at the throne of grace may know that he is communing with God, through the divinely appointed means, and that it is His privilege to understand what God is to the believing soul. We must have a realization of our needs. We must hunger and thirst after life in Christ and through Christ. Then we shall come to Him in humility and sincerity, and He will give us the faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 10)
Yesterday afternoon I spoke at Lemoore, three miles from Sister Grey’s place. I spoke of the great opportunities offered God’s people to present the truth for this time to those who know it not. This truth must be proclaimed throughout the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 11)
“How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!”“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe on Him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach except they be sent?” [Romans 10:13-15.] Those who know the truth must give of their means to send it to those who know it not. They must not be so engrossed in worldly business that they have little time to keep their souls refreshed and strengthened with the heavenly bread, of which they must eat daily if they would prepare for the future immortal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 12)
I set before those present the necessity for strict economy in the outlay of means, that they may have something to bring to the Lord, saying, “Of Thine own we freely give Thee.” [See 1 Chronicles 29:14.] Thus they are to offer to God thanksgiving for the blessings received from Him. Thus, too, they are to lay up for themselves treasures beside the throne of God. Hear the words of the great Teacher: “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.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 13)
“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.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 14)
“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.” [Matthew 6:19-24.]
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 15)
What can we say that will convince those who know the truth that if they would enter into eternal life, they must obey the words of Christ?
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 16)
“Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought”—no anxious, complaining thought—“for your life, 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?” [Verse 25.]
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 17)
The health of the body is to be carefully guarded. The fashions of this degenerate age are not to be followed, regardless of the injury that these fashions do to the body that Christ has purchased at an infinite cost. “Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” [Verse 25.] He who died for human beings speaks to every one in these words, reproving those who give so much time and thought to dress, to the neglect of the soul’s highest interests.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 18)
“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? And 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.” [Verses 26-29.]
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 19)
In these words the great Master-worker speaks to every one. There are many who spend upon dress large sums of money, which ought to be used to feed and clothe those who are suffering from hunger and cold. Many of those for whom Christ gave His life are without the cheapest, most common clothing, while others are spending thousands of dollars in the effort to satisfy the never-ending demands of fashion.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 20)
Even among those who profess to be children of God there are those who spend more than is necessary upon dress. We should dress neatly and tastefully, but, my sisters, leave off the unnecessary trimmings, and lay aside the means thus saved for the advancement of the cause of God. Learn the lesson of self-denial, and teach this lesson to your children. Every penny is needed now, in the work that must be done. The necessities of the suffering must be relieved; the naked must be clothed and the hungry fed; and the truth for this time must be proclaimed to those who know it not. By denying yourselves of that which is not necessary, you may have a part in this great work.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 21)
We are Christ’s witnesses, and we are not to allow worldly interests and plans so to absorb our time and attention that we pay no heed to the things that God has said must come first. There are higher interests at stake. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Verse 33.]
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 22)
Christ gave Himself willingly and cheerfully to the carrying out of the will of God. He became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. In view of all that He has done, should we feel it a hardship to deny ourselves? Shall we draw back from being partakers of Christ’s sufferings? His death ought to stir every fiber of our beings, making us willing to consecrate to His work all that we have and are.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 23)
As we think of what He has done for us, our hearts should be filled with gratitude and love, and we should renounce all selfishness and sin. What duty could the heart refuse to perform under the constraining influence of the love of God and Christ? “I am crucified with Christ,” the apostle Paul declared; “nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now life in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” [Galatians 2:20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 24)
Let us relate ourselves to God in self-denying, self-sacrificing obedience. Faith in Christ always leads to willing, cheerful obedience. He died to redeem us from all iniquity and to purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. There is to be perfect conformity, in thought, word, and deed, to the will of God. Heaven is for those only who have purified their souls through obedience to the truth. It is a place where unsullied purity alone can dwell. “Every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 25)
In perfect obedience there is perfect happiness. “These things have I spoken unto you,” Christ said, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:11.] May the Lord bless us, and strengthen our faith, and lead us onward to the heights to which we have not yet ascended. He gave Christ to die for us, that we might be purified from all iniquity. He has promised to pour out His Spirit upon us, that we may be sanctified through the truth. He has given us His Word, that through obedience to its teaching, we may be made holy. It is our privilege, our duty, to grow in grace. This is the will of God, even your sanctification.
(19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, 26)
Lt 303, 1904
Hayward, Brother; Hansen, Brother Los Angeles, California November 8, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SpTB #18 14-15; 5Bio 379. + Dear Brethren Hayward and Hansen,—
I have been hoping that you would see the advantage of establishing the sanitarium on the school farm that has been purchased near Edgefield. The reason given me for saying that this would be an advantage is that the school to be established there would be an encouragement and help to the sanitarium and the sanitarium to the school. The matter has been presented to me in this way several times, and I know that the sanitarium should not be permanently established in buildings in Nashville. If there could be found, four or fives miles from the city, buildings which could be secured for a low price, and which could readily be adapted to sanitarium work, it might be well to secure them. But such buildings have not yet been found, and as a large tract of land has been secured for school purposes, I cannot see why there should be any hesitation in regard to establishing the sanitarium somewhere near the school.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 1)
The school buildings will go up as soon as money can be raised, and the sanitarium should also be erected soon. It should not be built too near to the school. But you could suit yourselves as to the exact location on the school land.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 2)
I can see much advantage in the two institutions’ being close enough together to be able to co-operate with each other. Instruction similar to this was given me when we were making decisions in regard to the location of our buildings in Takoma Park. Whenever it is possible to have a school and a sanitarium near one another, let this be done; for the institutions will be a blessing to each other in more ways than one.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 3)
I have already written something in regard to this, but I find that the letter has been left at home. If I am not mistaken, I think that the letter was written to you. I will now ask you again to look the matter over carefully and then move understandingly. Do not delay. If possible, come to a decision soon; for we have no time to lose.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 4)
It is sufficient for me to say that I have often been instructed that wherever there is a school, there should also be a sanitarium. The sanitarium should be a blessing to the school, and the school a blessing to the sanitarium. The workers in both institutions should stand shoulder to shoulder, helping one another. They should bring to one another opportunities which, improved at the right time, would bring blessing and strength to both lines of work.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 5)
Whatever may be our work, the service we render to God, if offered in sincerity, is a part of the grand plan of redemption. In a world shrouded in darkness, we are to be bright and shining lights, witnesses to the power of truth. Said Christ, “Ye are the light of 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 5:14, 16.]
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 6)
Brethren, our time to work is short. Let us do our part in the establishment of the instrumentalities that are to help to prepare the way for the coming of the Lord. Should the sanitarium be built on the school land, those in charge of the school would have a grand opportunity of setting a right example before those who all through life have been easy-going idlers [and who] shall come to the Sanitarium for treatment. The students, coming to the school to learn what it means to have a real aim in this life, and to obtain an understanding of what true education means, can also obtain a knowledge of what it means to be true medical missionaries.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 7)
The patients will see the contrast between the idle, self-indulgent lives that they have lived and the lives of self-denial and service lived by Christ’s followers. They will learn that the object of medical missionary work is to restore, to correct wrongs, to show human beings how to avoid the self-indulgence that brings disease and death.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 8)
The words and actions of the workers in the sanitarium and in the school should plainly reveal that life is an intensely solemn thing, in view of the account which all must render to God. Each one should now put his talents out to the exchangers, adding to the Master’s gift, blessing others with the blessings given them. At the day of judgment, the lifework of each one is investigated, and each one receives a reward proportionate to his efforts.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 9)
There is a great work to be done by our sanitariums and schools. Let those who are connected with these important instrumentalities be wholly converted. Let them not live for self, for worldly purposes, withholding themselves from God’s service. Let them give themselves, body, soul, and spirit, to God, to be used by Him as He wills. They are not at liberty to do with themselves as they please; they belong to God; for He has bought them with the life-blood of His only begotten Son.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 10)
Teach it and live it, medical missionary workers. Tell those with whom you come in contact that the life that men and women now live will one day be examined by a just God, and that each one must now do his best, offering to God consecrated service. Those in charge of the school are to teach the students to use for the highest, holiest purpose the life given them, that they may accomplish the greatest good in this world. Let light shine forth as God designed it to from His institutions, and let God be given all the glory. This is the purpose and plan of heaven in the establishment of these institutions.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 11)
Men and women may come to the great Physician just as they are. With His precious blood He can cleanse them from all sin. He can and will blot out the dark record against those who come to Him confessing their sins. Each repentant soul will be received and pardoned. Each one may start afresh, forgiven, and accepted in the Beloved. Every day, every hour, they may say, “He has pardoned my transgressions and forgiven my sins.”
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 12)
Let these two institutions be established where they can help each other. The Lord would have His work move forward solidly. Let physicians and nurses and teachers and students walk humbly with God. Let the medical missionary workers keep the Lord ever in view, showing those who come for treatment that they trust in Him as the only one who can make their work a success. Let them ever exert their influence on the side of right, remembering that their work, however small it may seem to them to be, is part of God’s great plan. Let His name be glorified. [As] He is recognized and honored by a right use of our entrusted capabilities, increased capabilities will be given us; for these capabilities are measured out by One who sees where they will be best used.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 13)
The Lord will work for the glory of His name and the advancement of His cause. Then let every soul grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. Read the first chapter of Second Peter. Live on the plan of addition.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 14)
I have much to say, but I can write no more now. May the Lord bless you and guide you, is my prayer. Settle it in your minds that you will move in His strength and according to His Word. I shall hope that you will decide to build the sanitarium on the land already purchased. Gather up all the means you can. The book Ministry of Healing will soon be on the market, and this will be a help to our sanitariums. The manuscript will go to the press as soon as I can give it a final critical reading.
(19LtMs, Lt 303, 1904, 15)
Lt 304, 1904
Brethren Throughout America San Diego, California November 11, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2MR 69-70. + My brethren throughout America,—
I have a message for you: It is the duty of those in all parts of America to have a special regard for the men who are giving the powers of heart, mind, and soul to the work in the Southern field. This field is a responsibility that does not rest upon the men and women only who are engaged in the work there. None should feel that they have no burden to carry in reference to this field. The wrongs that have existed in the past must not be repeated. Not one word of discouragement should be spoken to any one engaged in the work. This field must be worked. Every grace is needed.
(19LtMs, Lt 304, 1904, 1)
That which has been done in sending out self-denial boxes is well pleasing to God. By the use of these boxes a double good is accomplished—gifts are received for the advancement of the work, and the families in which these boxes are used receive an education in self-denial.
(19LtMs, Lt 304, 1904, 2)
Parents are to respect this means in training their children in lessons of self-denial and sacrifice. These children in their youth are to practice the lessons that our Saviour has given in His Word. To some this matter may appear as small and unimportant, but in the kingdom of heaven the results will show that it was great and important. It is a missionary work, a work of grace for the giver and for the receiver. Sometimes through it there is formed the habit of giving. Through it seed is sown which springs up unto everlasting life. The work may appear small and feeble, but the lessons that are reminders of the cross of Calvary and lead to gifts of self-denial will certainly bring their reward.
(19LtMs, Lt 304, 1904, 3)
Children, let this work grow in your hearts. It is not much, but the Lord regards it as a precious thing, as a reminder of the responsibilities resting upon parents to give their larger offerings; for they are greatly needed. The work for the colored people needs liberal offerings, and parents as well as children may do much by self-denial and sacrifice to aid this work.
(19LtMs, Lt 304, 1904, 4)
Parents, these self-denial boxes are a precious reminder in your home. Therefore deny yourselves in order to be able to put money into them, just as long as there are needs to be supplied. Watch and guard the Lord’s plan. This is a living work, and the mites swell into larger sums. Take your children, fathers and mothers, to the mercy-seat. Go with them to the cross, and tell the children of the sacrifice that Christ has made to provide for them mansions in the heavens. He would have all your gifts, large or small, bear the signature of self-denial. Let your offerings be increased by self-denial, that you may hear the “well done” from Him who has given you all things. [Matthew 25:21.] Let these boxes, which hold your gifts of self-denial, lead you to remember that you have been bought with a price. Let nothing make you regard the matter with indifference. It is the Lord’s plan. Deal honesty with it, remembering the great gift of God to you, that you should be redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Spiritual advancement here means life in the higher world. Parents, lose no opportunity to set forth Christ your Redeemer. Show Christian sympathy and Christian fellowship for all the needy and oppressed. Children, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure.
(19LtMs, Lt 304, 1904, 5)
Let your neighbors and friends know what these little boxes mean. Invite them to try the same method and to practice liberality. Your efforts may be the saving of souls. Tell them of the needs of the colored children in the South. You will not be ashamed when Christ shall appear, that you were faithful to your trust.
(19LtMs, Lt 304, 1904, 6)
A primary school should be fitted up in Huntsville for the education of colored children. Provision should also be made for those who can be prepared to minister to their own race. For this work wise teachers are needed. And gifts of money are needed. Do not suppose that small offerings will not be appreciated. Larger gifts will also be needed. Self-sacrifice is called for at every step. It is a great work to prepare colored youth to teach their own race.
(19LtMs, Lt 304, 1904, 7)
Lt 305, 1904
Collins, Gilbert Melrose, Massachusetts [August] 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 1MR 226-227; 5Bio 350. + Dear Brother Gilbert Collins,—
I understand that Dr. Nicola has entered into some negotiations with you for the use of your property, with the understanding that you shall be cared for as long as you live. The question may arise in your minds, “Can I trust them?” I assure you that you can. Dr. Nicola is an earnest Christian. It is very hard for him to ask for a donation to the Sanitarium. But when he knows that he is right, he takes a firm stand.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 1)
Sister Nicola is a daughter of Sister Martha Smith, wife of Dr. Byington. Sister Martha is a conscientious, humble Christian. I have been acquainted with her from her girlhood, and I know her to be tender of heart and very kind. Her husband was a physician and as true as steel to principle. He and Uriah Smith were members of our family when we lived in Rochester, New York. They both helped in the first publication of the Review and Herald. After we moved the printing office to Battle Creek, they came with us and were staunch helpers.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 2)
Brother and Sister Nicola are earnest Christian people, and you need have no fear that they will fail of fulfilling any promises they may make.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 3)
As far as the Sanitarium itself is concerned, I have travelled extensively and have seen many sanitarium sites, but I have never seen a place more nearly perfect than this one at Melrose. The institution is situated in the midst of a beautiful park and is surrounded by trees of every kind. The park belongs to the State, and therefore no private dwellings can be put up near the Sanitarium. The large lake in front of the Sanitarium buildings supplies Boston with water, and the greatest care is exercised by the authorities to keep this lake free from contamination. No rowing or bathing is allowed in it. At any hour of the day, policemen may be seen riding on their bicycles round the lake, on guard against trespassers.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 4)
I appeal to our people in New England to help the Melrose Sanitarium with their influence and their means. If all will take hold, the debt resting upon the institution can be cancelled. I ask our people to give liberally for this purpose; for it is in the providence of God that the Sanitarium is situated where it is.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 5)
The Sanitarium is within easy access of Boston and can do much to reach that city with the truth. The Lord has instructed me that earnest efforts are to be made to reach the higher classes in Boston. He has provided a beautiful sanitarium site, where the scenery and the surroundings are as nearly perfect as can be found anywhere. I have been instructed that there are in the world other properties similar to this, all ready for use, which will be offered for sale at a very low price.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 6)
I am so grateful to God that this beautiful property has been secured, and that it is in the charge of those who will make the best use of every advantage. God is working to reach the city of Boston and the surrounding suburbs.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 7)
*****
There are many in our world who are slaves to intemperate habits, which are destroying soul and body. It is God’s purpose that in our sanitariums such ones shall learn a better way of living. Under the influence of Bible truth, many will be won to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 8)
The third angel’s message is to be carried to all parts of the world. Our sanitariums are one of the means by which truth is to be brought to those who know it not. We must reach the people where they are. In the highways and the byways the call to the supper is to be given. All must hear the invitation to the banquet prepared for them at infinite cost. As unbelievers are brought under the influence of truth, angels of God will impress their hearts.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 9)
*****
Christ’s message to us is, “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, nor steal.” In this scripture the Saviour warns us not to fail of laying up treasure in heaven. “Where your treasure is,” He says, “there will your heart be also.” [Matthew 6:19-21.] The characters of those who obey the Saviour’s injunction will reveal what their choice has been. Choosing the service of God, their lives bear the impress of the principles of heaven. Their characters are molded and fashioned after the character of Christ. They receive the impression of the divine, the stability of heaven’s greatness.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 10)
There is a work which the wealthy may do for the Master. Let them consecrate to His service their entrusted goods. Christ throws open to us the gates of a heavenly commerce. He would give scope to our loftiest ideas and would provide security for our choicest treasures. He shows us a bank that never fails. Let those who have affluence place their abundance where it can be used for God, under His special supervision. Let the five talents be put out to the exchanger, to be increased to ten.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 11)
The church is to be carefully guarded from the contamination of worldly influences. It is the Lord’s garden, and it is to be diligently cultivated under the direction of the divine Husbandman. Only those who are trees of righteousness, whose lives bring forth fruit unto eternal life, will be acknowledged by the Lord. These are trees of His planting, showing the skill of the great Gardener. Their lives, guided by the ennobling principles of truth, show the difference between sin and righteousness and the infinite power of Christ’s grace to transform human nature.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 12)
Those who allow unsanctified influences to rule in their hearts will fall far short of God’s purpose for them. The world, with its confusing elements, comes into their lives. It is because this is so often true of professing Christians that sin dwells in the church, hindering it from giving a proper representation of the religion of Christ. The Eden of God is degraded into a common, where any feet, without being cleansed, may tread.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 13)
Human perversity, human sophistry are being revealed and cherished by those who should have clear spiritual discernment. The members of the church make little effort to live lives that will answer Christ’s prayer that His disciples may be one with Him as He is one with the Father. Strange plants are being brought into the garden of the Lord. Noxious weeds grow side by side with the trees of His planting.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 14)
God designed that nothing but truth should occupy the minds of His people. He knew that this would enable them to hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end, and, in a revolted world, stand true and loyal to Him, bearing His seal and signature.
(19LtMs, Lt 305, 1904, 15)
Lt 307, 1904
White, J. E.; White, Emma Los Angeles, California November 5, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 4MR 26. Dear Children,—
We are in Los Angeles for a few days, on our way to San Diego, where I expect to stay for two or three weeks.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 1)
For some time Elder Simpson has been holding tent-meetings in a large tent, which is pitched near the business part of the city. On Sabbath morning I spoke in this tent. Notice had been sent to the churches near Los Angeles, and there were about a thousand people present. This was the Sabbath which had been set apart as a day on which a general collection should be taken up in our churches throughout America for the colored work in the South. I think that the contributions taken up after the service this morning amounted to about seventy-five dollars.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 2)
Tomorrow afternoon I am to speak again in the tent, and I shall try to present the needs of the work that is being done for the colored people and will give those present an opportunity to help forward this work. I am sure that those who are working for the colored people need all the means that can be sent them. I am glad that money is to be raised by a general contribution; for this gives all the opportunity of receiving the blessing that comes from giving.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 3)
On Friday I set out to see the Glendale Sanitarium, which has recently been purchased for twelve thousand dollars. It is a good building, in a very favorable location. It is now being fitted up, and we hope that it will be ready for patients in a few weeks.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 4)
As a result of the tent-meetings that have been held in Los Angeles during the past year, nearly a hundred souls have accepted the truth. A good company have taken their stand at Riverside, and small companies have been raised up in other places. In all, about two hundred have decided to obey the truth. Some of the new believers have given substantial help to the tent-meetings by bearing part of the expense of getting out notices and leaflets.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 5)
Brother Simpson is doing a good work, and he takes wonderfully with the people. I pray that the Lord will preserve his health. The way in which the work is being done and its results give clear evidence of the presence of the living God.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 6)
On our way from St. Helena to Los Angeles, we spent three or four days in the Hanford-Lemoore district, visiting old friends and attending a missionary convention. I spoke several times and tried to impress the hearers with the necessity of working earnestly to prepare the way for the coming of the Lord. I spoke especially of the needs of the Southern field, and Willie also took great pains at each meeting to bring this work before the minds of the people.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 7)
Our churches in every place need to repent and be converted. There are many who have brought much wood, hay, and stubble to the foundation. They need to be refined, sanctified, purified. If all would humble themselves before the Lord, making it their first work to seek for the purification of His Spirit, a great reformation would follow. If God’s people will seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all things needful will be added unto them.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 8)
I have great hope that the work among the colored people will receive substantial help as the result of the contributions taken up yesterday. I am working, praying, and hoping for this, and I shall leave the result with God.
(19LtMs, Lt 307, 1904, 9)
Lt 309, 1904
Porter, Brother and Sister [C. W.] NP November 20, 1904 [typed] Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister C. W. Porter,—
I wish to write you a few lines with reference to means. If you have money that you could lend me now, to help me in my book work and in preparing this Sanitarium for the reception of patients, I should be very much pleased. I will give you my note for this money and will pay you interest, and I will put the money where it will accomplish a good work.
(19LtMs, Lt 309, 1904, 1)
We are much interested in this Sanitarium here. We feel confident that the Lord has a work for it to do. The building has been purchased, and a faithful, economical work has been done in repairing it. Some of the rooms are already furnished. By taking advantage of sales of furniture belonging to wealthy people who were leaving the district, those in charge of the work here were able to get several lots of first-class furniture at a very low price.
(19LtMs, Lt 309, 1904, 2)
The climate here is excellent. Brother E. R. Palmer, who is now in charge of the Sanitarium, came here much broken down in health. He is now greatly improved. He has gained so much in flesh that he hardly looks like the same man. He is getting quite strong again. We feel so thankful for this.
(19LtMs, Lt 309, 1904, 3)
Several have recently made inquiries as to when the Sanitarium will be opened, saying that they would like to come as patients. We should be glad to open the institution at once, but this cannot be done until the bathrooms are fitted up and some necessary furniture is purchased. We need means very much just now that this may be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 309, 1904, 4)
I also need some money to help in the publication of Ministry of Healing, which is now almost ready for the printer. I ask you to lend me some money if you can. Time is short, and what is done must be done quickly. We have no time to lose. The light of truth must be brought before the people.
(19LtMs, Lt 309, 1904, 5)
Lt 310, 1904
Simpson, W. W. San Diego, California November 27, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 340. + Elder W. W. Simpson Dear Brother,—
I wish to write you a few words this morning. Your case has been presented to me. I have been instructed that you are to remember that you are not your own, but God’s. You have been bought with a price and are to glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are His.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 1)
I have already written some things to you, which I hope you will heed, because the message came from the Lord to give to you. There are still other things that I wish to present before you in regard to the care which you should give your body.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 2)
The Lord Jesus would have you work zealously and intelligently to preserve the vital organs in health. The throat and lungs should receive special care, for you are to give the message of truth to many. But in order to give this message of truth it will be necessary for you to take periods of rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 3)
The care of the throat and lungs is an important matter which needs your special attention. Your stomach also should receive careful treatment. You are doing your vital organs an injustice. You need to be careful if you would be a perfect man as were Daniel and his companions. You are to guard your brain power, and in order to do this, you must understand how to care properly for the stomach. Do not misuse the stomach. Do not put upon this faithful servant more work than it can properly perform. Do not overtax the digestive organs by placing in the stomach too great a variety of food, or by eating at irregular times, as you feel inclined. Your usefulness and your health depend upon the treatment that you give your stomach. If you eat three meals a day, be sure that these meals are taken at regular hours.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 4)
I am given a message to give to you. Eat at regular periods. By wrong habits of eating you are preparing yourself for future suffering. It is not always safe to comply with invitations to meals, even though given by your brethren and friends who wish to lavish upon you many kinds of food. You know that you can eat two or three kinds of food at a meal without injury to your digestive organs. When you are invited out to a meal, shun the many varieties of food that those who have invited you have set before you. This you must do if you would be a faithful sentinel. When food is placed before us which, if eaten, would cause the digestive organs hours of hard work, we must not, if we eat this food, blame those who set it before us for the result. God expects us to decide for ourselves to eat that food only which will not cause suffering to the digestive organs.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 5)
Do not place in your stomach a heterogeneous mass of food, which will set up a fermentation. Remember that once this is done you can do little to relieve the condition that you have so inconsiderately produced. You have already done your servant, the stomach, great harm. At times, when it has needed perfect rest to recover from its work of digesting a heavy meal, you have perhaps eaten too heartily of many things. You need to become a faithful, intelligent physician to yourself. You need to read from cause to effect. The all-gone sensation which you often feel is not hunger; it is the result of overworking the digestive organs. The stomach has worked with all its power to care for the variety of food thrust upon it, and it needs rest, not more food.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 6)
Often the different kinds of food are placed in the stomach which do not agree, and fermentation is the result. This is the cause of many stomach difficulties. Eat at regular hours, and eat wholesome food. Do not place in the stomach too great a variety of food at one meal.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 7)
I dare not say to you or to any one else, You must eat only two meals a day. But I do say that too much food should not be placed in the stomach at one time, for when this is done the stomach has no power to do its work properly. For some, three meals a day are better than two. For thirty years I have taken only two meals a day, and I have not eaten between meals. I know for my own part that two meals can be so arranged as to be perfectly convenient. Yet no one is to make his own case a criterion for others. Each one should study carefully the organism of his body, that he may know how to deal intelligently with the body, and that he may be sure that intemperance in eating is not destroying the vital forces of the system. Each one should know for himself how to care properly for the machinery of the body, for no one else can do this for him. Every child should be taught to live in such a way that he will have a healthy body and a clear brain.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 8)
I must send you, my brother, this word of warning. By your reckless and disorderly manner of treating your stomach you are bringing on a condition of ill health. You cannot long preserve your health unless you follow correct habits of eating. Those who violate the laws of their being must suffer the consequence. I give God the glory that nearly half a century ago the light on health reform was given to me, and I was not disobedient to the light. I have strictly guarded my appetite. I eat but two meals a day, and I eat nothing that would create a disturbance in the stomach. I do not eat between meals for this would place on the digestive organs a burden that they should not have.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 9)
You are in danger, through the reckless, imprudent treatment that you give your stomach, of a breakdown in health. Your lungs also are in danger, through your speaking too long and too often. The Lord will preserve your life, if you will obey the principles of health reform, but He will not work a miracle to prevent suffering and death if you disregard the laws of your being. If we disobey these laws, we must pay the penalty. When we find that all our life we have been placing ourselves in peril by abusing the life-giving principles, establishing disorder, and creating inharmonious action in the wonderful machinery of the human organism, we should change our habits of eating.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 10)
You need to be careful also in regard to your habits of speaking. Do not speak lengthily. Do not put undue strain on the vocal organs. Keep these organs in as perfect condition as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 11)
In a large congregation the atmosphere is very often poisoned by the exhalations from the bodies of those present, therefore I am charged to tell our ministers not to imperil their life and health by speaking lengthily. Many die prematurely by following wrong habits of speaking and eating, when the Lord would have had them live. Many wonder at the dispensation of Providence which takes away the able workers. But the death of these workers was not a dispensation of Providence, but the result of their own course of action. The wonder is that many live so long.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 12)
When evening meetings are held in a tent, the tent should the next day be thoroughly aired and the inside of it, as far as possible, exposed to the sunlight that it may be cleansed from the impurities coming from the bodies of a large number of people. In a large congregation there are always those who seldom bathe.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 13)
Not one-hundredth part of the common sense that should be exercised is shown in regard to cleansing and ventilating a tent or room after meetings have been held. Some one who has studied the needs of the human system and who could reason from cause to effect should take this matter in charge and see that the tent or meetinghouse is thoroughly ventilated after each service.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 14)
The Lord is good and full of compassion. He desires us to understand that we cannot violate the laws of nature without doing injury to our physical and mental powers—injury from which there may be no recovery. Do not venture to live in contradiction of God’s will. God would have each one of His servants bear the impress of the Divine. He would have each one capable of acting his part in the great work for this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 15)
No part of the living structure should be overburdened or another part left inactive. It is God’s will that every part of the body shall be properly developed, that the whole being may obey the regulations of the divine mind. If we expect the faculties of the body to act their part in the perfection of the whole being, these faculties must be given the proper treatment. The harmonious development of every part of the being, physical, mental, and spiritual, will place man in such a relation to God that he will not be overcome by the perverting influences of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 16)
God desires His people to stand where they will give a representation of what He designs man to be. Satan brought sin into the world and set up a will that is a contradiction of God’s will. This makes it highly essential for man to search carefully for the right and carefully to regulate his habits of life in accordance with the law of God, that he may carry out God’s purpose for him, as set forth in this law.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 17)
God will help us, if we commit our ways to Him, if we submit ourselves to Him, to be guided by His wisdom. The evil comes when man follows his own principles, regardless of a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” This results in inconsistencies of spirit, of speech, of action, and these dishonor Him who gave us light and knowledge. Those who profess godliness should not be inconsistent. If they close their minds to knowledge, they deprive the world of the light that should shine forth from them in good works. Let those who live in these last days open the windows of the soul heavenward and let the sunshine of heaven in. Do not talk of clouds and darkness. God calls upon us “to let our light so shine before men,” that they beholding our good works shall glorify Him. [Matthew 5:16.] He calls upon His ministers to arise and shine. The religion of Christ will bless wherever it is received into the life. By it the life will be softened and subdued and sweetened. Every detail of the character is to reveal the sanctification that comes from a daily practice of the principles of heaven. Position or profession is nothing in the sight of God. He calls for lives that reveal the fruits of the Spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 310, 1904, 18)
Lt 311, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. National City, California November 25, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 224-240. Dr. J. H. Kellogg
Battle Creek, Michigan My dear Brother,—
You say that you have written me several letters, but have not heard from me. I have not been well for some time. I was unfortunate in taking cold when speaking in the large tent at the Omaha camp-meeting. The ground was high and dry, but still I caught cold. I spoke twice at that camp-meeting and succeeded in making the people hear, though at one meeting there were fifteen hundred present.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 1)
From Omaha we went to College View. I was unaccustomed to the high winds there, and my cold got no better. I continued to sneeze and cough a great deal. But when I stood before the people, all this ceased.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 2)
We were well cared for at College View, and all that could be done for our comfort was done. We met many old friends. I was enabled to speak in the church Sabbath, Sunday, and Monday. I also spoke to the patients and nurses.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 3)
I did not get free from cold while I was there, and it continued its hold on me all the way home. I went to Battle Creek, as you know, and spoke twice to the patients and once in the gymnasium, to the nurses and helpers. I would have been very glad could I have felt free to remain another week in Battle Creek. I would have done this, but Marian’s sickness called me home. Her case was a heavy weight on my mind. We received letters every day telling us of her increasing weakness. The thought that I must part with her was a great trial to me. She had been with me for twenty-five years, and we blended nicely in our work. I knew that if she should die, I could not find another to supply her place. Our ideas in regard to the work were one, and we often talked together. Every word that I spoke to make a point clearer she would write out at once.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 4)
I was so thoroughly worn out when I reached home that I feared a severe sickness was coming upon me! We found Marian very weak indeed. She was at the Sanitarium, and Mrs. Kellogg, her sister, was with her.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 5)
Mrs. Kellogg and Sara were with Marian at the time of her death. She passed away very peacefully, and we feel that we can indeed say, “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord; Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.” [Revelation 14:13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 6)
A few days before her death, we decided to go to Los Angeles; for our tickets were good only till the third of November. We spoke to Dr. Evans about this, and he advised us to go, saying that we could be sent for whenever necessary. We decided to go on Monday, the day before her death, but we felt held to remain at home one more day. On Tuesday morning, we received word that she had lost consciousness at about seven o’clock. We at once decided not to go to Los Angeles that day. She died at half past four Tuesday afternoon.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 7)
The funeral was held the next day. She was laid away in the St. Helena cemetery. I miss her greatly and shall continue to; for she was a most faithful and efficient worker.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 8)
After all was over, we started South, leaving home Friday morning. Hearing that Dr. Hare was in Fresno, we decided to go to Los Angeles that way. We spent Sabbath in Fresno, and I spoke in our church there to a large congregation. The Lord gave me freedom.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 9)
We intended to go on to Los Angeles Saturday night, but failed to secure accommodations on the train. We decided to go down to the Hanford-Lemoore district and spend the day visiting old friends. When we reached Hanford, we found that a Missionary Convention was in progress, and I was urged to speak that afternoon.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 10)
We took dinner with Sister Harvey Gray, and she begged us to remain for three or four days, saying that I could attend the meetings to be held in the towns near by and speak to the people. She urged me so strongly to remain that I consented, and I spoke every afternoon for the next four days—twice at Hanford, once at Lemoore, and once at Armona. When on my feet before the people, I seemed to be stronger than I have been for years, but when I got home my strength seemed to leave me. I felt worn out and could not write.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 11)
From Hanford we went to Los Angeles, where we stayed over Sabbath and Sunday. We were given rooms in the building above the Vegetarian Restaurant, but, as you know, it is a very noisy part of the city, and I did not sleep well. I spoke on Sabbath and Sunday in the large tent in which Brother Simpson has been holding meetings. On Sabbath there were twenty-five hundred present, and on Sunday one thousand. Brother Simpson has been holding tent-meetings in Los Angeles for several months, and as a result of his labors about one hundred have taken their stand for the truth. He talks on the prophecies, showing very clearly the reasons of our faith and explaining the first, second, and third angels’ messages. He brings out very distinctly the truth for this time, and this truth is taking hold upon minds. Night after night the large tent has been crowded, and many have stood on the outside. The Lord has impressed the people in a wonderful manner.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 12)
The interest that Brother Simpson has aroused is a remarkable one. Many are accepting the truth and are doing all they can to help in the advancement of the truth. Brother Simpson presents the truth just as it was presented in past years. He has a system of charts that is the most perfect thing of its kind that I have ever seen. At his request I had a long conversation with him, and I know that he is sound on every point of our faith and that the power of God is with him.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 13)
I wish that there were one hundred where there is one awakened to proclaim the last message to be given to our world. The people are hungry, starving for Bible truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 14)
Brother Simpson makes clear and plain the positions that we have held for so many years. He has portions of his discourses printed, and these leaflets are widely distributed in the city of Los Angeles. Those who have recently accepted the truth have been heartily united in helping to sustain this work, which is self-supporting, and so far, means has come in for all the notices and leaflets that have been sent out.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 15)
The day after we reached Los Angeles, several of us went out to see the Sanitarium building at Glendale. I think you told me that you have seen this building. I think it is well adapted for sanitarium purposes and that it is in a beautiful location. At present preparations are being made for the opening of the institution. Bathrooms are being put up, and those who come for treatment will be given good accommodations. I went over the whole building, and I am very much pleased with all the arrangements. The Sanitarium has five acres of land. I wish there was more land in connection with the building, but still, it is certainly in the country; for there are no buildings very near it. It is surrounded by large fields of strawberries and by orange orchards. And they have enough land to furnish all the patients who wish with outdoor employment, which is of such benefit to those who wish to regain their health.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 16)
From Los Angeles we came to San Diego, and for two weeks we have been staying in the Sanitarium building five miles out of San Diego. We find that Brother Palmer has done faithful and economical work in repairing and partly fitting up this building. Preparations are now being hastened for the opening of this institution; for already several persons have expressed themselves as anxious to come here for treatment. It is rather strange to think that I should be the first patient in the building. I have been sick ever since I have been here. I have had a very sore throat and a dry, hard cough, which at times seemed as if it would take away my breath. Sara has given me thorough treatment, and I am improving, though slowly.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 17)
The members of the San Diego church were very anxious to hear me, and I spoke to them the first Sunday after coming here, driving six miles there and six miles back. But I was so weak that my voice would not come to me, and I spoke only for fifteen minutes. I should certainly have fainted in the stand had I remained longer. I had to give up and have not tried to speak since. I have a beautiful sunny room, but my cough does not seem to leave me. I think the dry atmosphere here affects me as it does in Colorado.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 18)
Next week we shall go to Los Angeles, and as soon as possible we shall return to St. Helena.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 19)
We were surprised to find that so much had already been done toward preparing this building for the reception of patients. By taking advantage of several sales of furniture by wealthy peoples leaving the district, Brother Palmer secured several lots of first-class furniture at a very low price, and we found more rooms furnished than we had expected to find. The furniture is very good. Some of it is bird’s-eye maple, and it is all solid and of the best made.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 20)
I must not forget to tell you about the well. For some time the workmen have been busy digging a well on the lower part of the Sanitarium ground. When they got down fifty feet, they found a little water. They went down still farther, through the clay to the gravel below. Several mornings ago Brother Palmer came to my room with his face full of joy and said that the water was flowing into the well in a stream as big as his hand.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 21)
Just before this Brother E. S. Ballenger, Sister Gotzian, and Willie had gone to Escondido to hold some meetings there in behalf of the Sanitarium enterprise. They were very successful, getting donations to the amount of six hundred dollars, besides two good cows and some chickens. They came back well pleased. They returned Tuesday night, and on Wednesday morning Brother Palmer and Willie came to my room and told me that there was fifteen feet of water in the well. The next morning there was eighteen feet of water, and the workers are pumping hard to get the water out; for they wish to go a few feet farther down, so as to make a reservoir for the water that flows in.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 22)
I am so glad that we shall have no dearth of water. The report is that the water in the new well is soft and pure. The old well has never yet gone dry, and at present the house is supplied from this well. I think that when the new well is in operation, there will be water enough for all domestic and irrigating purposes.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 23)
The view from the west windows of the Sanitarium building is beautiful. From them can be seen Paradise Valley, and beyond, the Pacific Ocean. In the evening when the last rays of the setting sun make a path of gold across the water, the view is especially fine.
(19LtMs, Lt 311, 1904, 24)
Lt 313, 1904
Brethren and Sisters Armona, California November 2, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in SpTB #12 11-12; 8MR 129.
A Needy Field
Dear brethren and sisters,—
I wish to write you a few lines. I greatly desire to impress your minds with the importance of doing what you can to help forward the work that is being done for the colored people in the Southern states. In these states there are thousands and thousands of negroes, many of whom are ignorant and degraded. Upon the white people of the United States the Lord has laid the burden of helping this people. But as yet Seventh-day Adventists have done comparatively little to help them.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 1)
For some time a small Sanitarium for colored people has been conducted in the city of Nashville. This institution has done much good and is a great blessing to the colored people of the city; but its facilities are limited, and it is in great need of help.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 2)
An orphanage is greatly needed by the colored believers in the South. We have decided that this orphanage must be established. But in order for this to be done, money must be raised. There is one father in the South who says that he will give one hundred dollars toward the establishment of this institution. This is a large gift for a poor man to make. An effort must now be made to secure means for an orphan asylum. Its establishment has long been talked of, but it takes more than words to build an institution and put it in running order.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 3)
I would call your special attention to the needs of the Huntsville school. This school is on a farm of three hundred acres, which was purchased by the General Conference and given to the work for the colored people of the South. This school farm is to be made a representation of what can be done to help the colored people.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 4)
It was in the providence of God that the Huntsville school farm was purchased. It is in a good locality. Near it there are large nurseries, and in these nurseries some of the students have worked during the summer to earn money to pay their expenses at the Huntsville school. Those for whom these students have worked give them a high recommendation, saying that they have accomplished more than an equal number of other hands.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 5)
The Huntsville school greatly needs additional buildings. It ought to be fitted up for the accommodation of one hundred students who are to be trained as teachers of their own race. A small building, in which the students can be taught to care for the sick, should be put up near the school.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 6)
The students are to be carefully disciplined. They are to be given a thorough education, an education that will fit them to teach others. As soon as possible they are to be prepared for service. The young men who attend school should be taught how to put up buildings and how to cultivate the soil. At present white teachers can take part in the work of this school, educating and training the students. But soon it will be impossible for them to do this. Let us make earnest efforts to help this school to act its part now, while the way is still open. At present there are no outside opposing influences to hinder its progress.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 7)
I now ask you to give of your means for the Huntsville school. Facilities are needed there. Things about the institution must be put in proper order, that the school may be a credit to the cause it represents. The present condition of the school buildings does not speak favorably regarding the interest of our people in the school.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 8)
I present this matter to you, my brethren and sisters, and I ask you to do what you can for the advancement of the work that a few faithful laborers are trying to do for the colored race. This work has been greatly retarded because means sufficient to supply its needs have not been provided.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 9)
I ask you, my brethren and sisters, to do your best. As you know, the Sabbath on which this will be read to you has been set apart as a day on which gifts are to be made for the work among the colored people. By willing liberality let us prepare the way for the laborers in the South to do a work of mercy for this people. I urge you in the name of the Lord to do something, and do it now. I pray that God will open your hearts and help you to do justice to the needs of the work for the colored people.
(19LtMs, Lt 313, 1904, 10)
Lt 315, 1904
Wilcox, F. M. San Diego, California November 22, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 285-286. Dear Brother Wilcox,—
A few minutes ago Sara placed your letter in my hand. I have read it, and I will say that I have always talked against the idea of having a consumptives’ home near the Boulder Sanitarium. Select a place ten or twelve miles away, or if necessary, still farther away. If possible, let it be where there are many pine trees. Let those of the patients who are able to work be given something to do. They should give the muscles judicious exercise. Let them work in the soil. This will be found especially advantageous. Let all be taught that cheerfulness is God’s remedy for sickness. Let them talk faith and think as little as possible about disagreeable things. Let the heart go forth in praise and thanksgiving to God. Let them pray for themselves and for one another, and let them keep the love of God in the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 315, 1904, 1)
The great Physician can heal consumption. He did it in the case of my husband and myself.
(19LtMs, Lt 315, 1904, 2)
It should be understood that the Boulder Sanitarium does not receive those suffering from consumption. Let a place be chosen for a consumptives’ home, and let it be far enough away so that it will not interfere with the work of the Boulder Sanitarium. Go ahead with the selection of some retired place, and let the consumptives be cared for in the wisest and best way. Many will recover.
(19LtMs, Lt 315, 1904, 3)
In regard to means, we should have a fund set apart for the care of those suffering from consumption. If a suitable building can be secured for a consumptives’ home, the work carried on in it would, to a large degree, have to be sustained by gifts. I believe that a call for means with which to purchase a building for this purpose, and to sustain the work of the home, would be responded to. May the Lord give us hearts of flesh and of tenderness and love.
(19LtMs, Lt 315, 1904, 4)
I cannot write more now. I have been sick for more than a week with a severe cold and sore throat. I think this sickness is the result of constant work and no rest.
(19LtMs, Lt 315, 1904, 5)
When you read this, I shall have passed my seventy-seventh birthday.
(19LtMs, Lt 315, 1904, 6)
Lt 317, 1904
Grey, Sister “Paradise Valley,” San Diego, California November 23, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 218-220. Dear Sister Grey,
We have been here for nearly two weeks, but I have been sick most of the time. Somewhere I caught a severe cold, and for more than a week I have not associated with the family at all, but have kept close to my room. I have a very severe cough and a very sore throat, and I have thought it best to keep to myself. At times when coughing, it has seemed as if my breath would stop, but I have taken heavy treatment, and I am improving, though I still have times of heavy coughing. I thank the Lord that last night I had a good night’s rest, with only one spell of coughing. I feel that I am on the gaining side.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 1)
You will be glad to know that the preparations for opening this building as a sanitarium are going forward rapidly. For some time the men have been digging a well on the flat, and they have found water. They have gone down ninety feet, and they wish to go ten feet farther if possible. Last evening Brother Palmer came to my room so full of joy that he could scarcely speak, to tell me that a stream of water as big as his hand was coming into the well, and this morning there is fourteen feet of soft, pure water in the well. I never saw a man more rejoiced than Brother Palmer was. The thought that there is a lake of soft water one hundred feet or more below us has sent a thrill of joy through our hearts. There will be all the water that is needed, both for use in the house and for watering the olive and orange trees on the place.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 2)
I wish we would all be as glad that the love of God is flowing through our world, and that it may fill our hearts, conveying spiritual strength and vitality to every part of the being. We may inquire, “Is it possible that God can love us as He loves His Son?” It is possible; for God’s Word declares, “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 know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me.” [John 17:22, 23.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 3)
I beg you and your sons not to let your love for Christ diminish. In the Word of God we have subjects of the highest value to contemplate. Christ’s life is an illustration of sacred, ennobling purity. “In Him was life; and the life was the light of men.” [John 1:4.] O the depth of the riches of that love wherein God hath abounded toward us in the person of His Son.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 4)
Think more of Christ and of His rich grace, that you may have the riches of His grace. Beseech God to grant that you may be able in your home to comprehend the love that passeth knowledge.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 5)
Christ’s oneness with the Father was a constant joy to God; for He knew that there was in the world one who would not misrepresent Him. In Christ He beheld the reflection of His own character. And it was that His followers might have this same oneness that was Christ’s great desire. For this oneness He prayed.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 6)
“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. 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.” [John 17:17-21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 7)
It is this oneness in the church that is to proclaim the wonderful truth that God sent His Son into the world to save sinners.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 8)
“Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee, but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy name, and will declare it, that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them.” [Verses 24-26.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 9)
The oneness existing between the Father and the Son does not affect the distinct personality of each. And though believers are to be one with Christ, their identity and personality is recognized through the whole of this prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 10)
I wish that we could comprehend this wonderful prayer. In it our privileges and possibilities are plainly outlined. We need to watch unto prayer. We need to be constantly on guard, lest we fail of gaining the oneness for which Christ prayed.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 11)
Sister Grey, I entreat you to lead your children in the path of eternal life. A life of piety is a life of praise. Let us, by beholding the character of Christ, become changed into His likeness.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 12)
With love to all the family.
(19LtMs, Lt 317, 1904, 13)
Lt 317a, 1904
Gage, Frank NP November 20, 1904 Previously unpublished. + F. Gage Dear Brother,—
I have words to address to you. The Lord has presented to me some things which have deprived me of sleep for hours. What can I say to you? You understand the theory of the truth, and yet you turn from the truth to pursue a course you little thought to pursue when you married your wife. Your history is before me. The course you have pursued, the trials you have caused your wife—how little you can comprehend. God has noticed the sad chapters of her experience, and He has sustained her, as you have turned from the course you pursued. I will not go into the particulars, though I may sometime.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 1)
I wish to say, The Lord has given me a message for you. Even after the course you have pursued, your wife has taken you to her heart again. She dreads to go through a repetition of that which she has suffered on your account; but I see you urging her to unite with you in worldly pleasure seeking. Dare you meet your Lord with your present record, of laying your plans to destroy her hold upon God, her love for the truth? This is her only safety. Why should you make it hard for her? You add the blood of the souls of your wife and children to the list of your sins against God.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 2)
I do not wish to enter into unnecessary particulars, or to say anything needless. But I must ask you, Will you not repent and humble yourself before God? Will you not turn from your transgression of His law?
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 3)
“Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the Lord hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against Me. The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master’s crib; but Israel doth not know, My people [doth not consider. Ah] sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evil doers, children that are corruptors: they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger. They are gone away backward.” [Isaiah 1:2-4.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 4)
Would you venture to take your wife and children with you in the unbelieving path that you are traveling? Will it pay for you to add sin to sin, to stand in rebellion against God and take your whole family with you? to lose life, eternal life? I have no controversy with you in regard to your position. I know what it is. Spoil not the faith of your wife. She needs your help. You must not entice her to sever her connection with her heavenly Father and with her Redeemer, who gave His life for her. Your children have been bought with a price. God bids you to lay down your warfare against truth and righteousness and be converted, surrendering to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 5)
Your wife has held fast her integrity. She loves her children and her husband. But she needs the help of a converted husband. God gives her a message through me, His messenger: Hold fast to God your heavenly Father and do not sacrifice one principle of truth under any consideration.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 6)
God calls, saying: “Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before Mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well.... Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat the good of the land; but if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” [Verses 16-20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 7)
Let me tell you the message I have for you who have had great light yet have not followed the light, but have chosen the uncertainty of unbelief and lived in unbelief until you cannot tell the light from darkness of error. There are two armies in the world: one fighting to carry out the planning and devising of Satan, and the other to uphold the will of God. The warfare between good and evil is constantly increasing in intensity, preparing for the last great battle. The Lord gives you the invitation: “Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty. The lofty looks of man shall be humbled and the haughtiness of man shall be bowed down, and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the Lord shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low; and upon all the cedars of Lebanon, that are high and lifted up, and upon all the oaks of Bashan, and upon all the high mountains, and upon all the hills that are lifted up, and upon every high tower, and upon every fenced wall, and upon all the ships of Tarshish, and upon all pleasant pictures. And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of man shall be made low; and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. And the idols He shall utterly abolish.” [Isaiah 2:10-18.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 8)
“And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty, when He ariseth to shake terribly the earth. In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; to go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty, when He ariseth to shake terribly the earth. Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?” [Verses 19-22.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 9)
The things outlined in this scripture will certainly come to pass. War and bloodshed will increase. There will be confusion of nations, one seeking to outreach the other for the benefits of possession.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 10)
I appeal to you as one in whom I am interested to heed this warning. I ask you, for the sake of Him who gave His life for you, to turn unto the Lord with full purpose of heart. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] O that you could realize that if you will gather up the divine rays of light shining upon you from the divine Word, if you would allow the oil of grace to be emptied into your soul, you would be saved, even in this the eleventh hour; and in your daily life, by being good and doing good, you would illustrate the power of practical godliness.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 11)
Take heed to thyself. Your spirit needs to feel the subduing power of God. The Lord cannot accept the most splendid service unless it is first consecrated to Him by the surrender of the heart, mind, soul, and strength. The truth planted in the heart will produce fruit after its kind. You will have eternal life if you will seek the Lord. Your day of trust is almost over. The day of reckoning will soon come. The Lord offers His saving grace. He places at your disposal the choicest goods of heaven and asks you to increase them for Him by diligently trading upon them. Strive without delay to obtain a fitting character for the heavenly world, and lead your children with earnest love to the Saviour’s feet to be blessed by Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 12)
I carry a heavy burden for you. Delay not to make your peace with God. In that day when it is too late for wrongs to be righted, you will have a clear sense of where you have failed. I have hoped and prayed that you and your wife and children would come to God unitedly as repentant sinners. You have been placed in a responsible position, and had you consecrated yourself to God, you ought to have an excellent report before the heavenly universe and before men because you have put your talents out to usury and served the Lord with full purpose of heart; but you will not have a desirable record as long as you continue to do as you have done: To give to the world the example of choosing to stand under the rebellion.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 13)
“And, behold, 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.” [Matthew 19:16, 17.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 14)
This is the condition upon which you and your wife and children may gain eternal life. Will you accept the terms? Will you try unitedly to be a help to each other. No impatient words should be spoken by the husband to the wife or by the wife to her husband. Let the peace of God dwell in your hearts, and thank Him daily that it is not yet too late for wrongs to be righted. Let your children be no longer confused as they now are because the father will not be obedient to the Word. God says to you, my brother, my sister, If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments of God. Will you heed this call? Will you seek the Lord with the whole heart, that you may find Him? Will you venture to delay any longer? You excuse yourselves by presenting the defects in the characters of others. But will the ability to discern their defects in departing from the path of righteousness cancel your obligations to God, as those for whom Christ gave His life? Look to yourselves—unprepared to meet your God in peace—and then seek pardon.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 15)
The Lord has use for your talents in His service. Will you not come to Him now, just now, with full purpose of heart, and give to God your whole service. You have never known what thorough conversion means. In your youth you were inclined to sport and pleasure. Will you not now dedicate yourself to the service of Him whose you are by creation and by redemption? To redeem your soul, He made an infinite sacrifice. He suffered shame and humiliation; He was wounded for your transgressions, bruised for your iniquities; and by His stripes you may if you choose be healed. If you will seek Him, He will be found of you. You have no power to redeem yourself, but the Lord Jesus will impart that power if you receive Him by faith as your Saviour.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 16)
In the future many souls will come to the Lord with full purpose of heart who never heard the truth. The Lord will have compassion upon the people in darkness, and souls will come to the light through the ministry of men whom God is now calling to be converted. You have never been converted, but you are given opportunity to humble your heart before God. Seek the Lord while He may be found. Never let go until you have sought and found that hope that is in Christ Jesus unto life eternal. Heed the words I have written to you. Break away now from Satan’s power and take your stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. In obeying the commandments of God, you will have the joy of Christ in your heart, and your joy will be full. Let me hear from you. I have been awakened at twelve o’clock at night to write these words to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 17)
***** My sister Katy,—
You and your family have been presented before me, and I have seen that you are becoming wearied by the long protracted temptation to give up the truth and follow the inclinations of your husband. But will it pay to do this, will you be led away by counter influences now? No, no! It must not be. Of your husband the Lord saith, Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! The question will arise at times in your mind through the words that may be spoken to you by your husband, presenting the situation as it now stands, Why is it that professed Christians are no better than some unbelievers? He may so present the matter that the unbelievers may seem to be in some respects, as he puts the matter, better than some professed Christians. There may be a similarity in moral character between believers and some unbelievers; nevertheless there is a difference between them, which the human conception does not comprehend. The difference may not always be seen, but it exists unseen by the eye of sense and unappreciated by the unconverted mind. This difference is in the state of the heart; the one has an abiding hope and faith in Jesus Christ; while the other is unmindful of God and of spiritual things. Christ dwelling in the heart by faith is a fortress to the believer. The Christian struggling against opposing influences may sometimes be overcome and speak and act in a manner unbecoming to a Christian. But the Lord will pardon. He is very tender of the bruised lambs of His fold.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 18)
Angels of God have often comforted you when your husband has left you alone. Your danger is now stronger for there is a stronger opposing influence to righteousness. But do not, my sister, let go or even weaken your hold on God. Cling to the mighty One; hold fast to the truth. Educate your children to give their hearts to God and be converted.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 19)
“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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 20)
“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.” [Verse 14.]
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 21)
How do you know but that if you will remain steadfast to the truth, under the moving of the Spirit of God, your growth in grace may win your husband to the truth? If you are patient and forbearing, Katy, and do not become rebellious against God, you may lead your husband and children with you in the narrow path and through the narrow gate to the city of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 22)
The divine law must be obeyed. A sense of the responsibility resting upon you should be regarded as of sufficient consequence to lead you to take your stand every day and every hour firm and true for God. Work, O work for your children that their souls may not be tarnished. If you can act your part as a faithful, God-fearing mother, your children will see the difference between one who loves the Lord Jesus and one who turns away from Christ. The Christian mother is guarded and guided by a power unseen. The Lord Jesus will constantly give her His grace; for she walks in the spirit and endures the seeing of the invisible.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 23)
Jesus is to be your hope, your comfort. Treat your husband with all kindness and your children with the tenderest affection. Read and study?? (Isaiah 6:1-7): “In the year that King Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and His train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts. Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: and he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.”
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 24)
Never give way to impatience. Remember that your soul and the souls of your children are of infinite value because they have been purchased by the sacrifice of the life of Christ. I have written these words to you for the benefit of yourself and your husband, and for Christ’s sake.
(19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, 25)
Lt 319, 1904
White, May; White, Henry; White, Herbert; White, Gracie Los Angeles, California December 4, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 230-235. My dear daughter May Lacey White, and Henry, Herbert, and Gracie,—
A week ago last Tuesday Sara, Maggie, and I left San Diego and came to Los Angeles. Brother Burden met us at the station and took us to the restaurant, where we had dinner. In the afternoon we came out to Glendale, to the new sanitarium, where we have been staying ever since. We found much to do, and the brethren have held several important meetings. We are glad to be able to write that the business which has kept us here is closing up. In a board meeting held today the most difficult point was settled. Brother Simpson resigned his place as manager of the sanitarium and has been appointed purchasing agent for the sanitarium and restaurant. This is the last hard piece of work, and now I am sure that other matters will be easily adjusted, and we shall soon be able to start for home.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 1)
We shall go to Redlands tomorrow, to stay over Sabbath and Sunday. The next week we shall go to Fernando and then to Mountain View. We are pleasantly situated here, but I am longing for home. I do so much want to see you all. Your father has worked very hard, and he wants to go home as much as you want him to come. But the future of the work here demanded our staying for awhile. We could not have gone home earlier; for we felt that we must do something to help this sanitarium to get started on right lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 2)
Brother Burden has been chosen as manager of the institution and Sister Burden as bookkeeper, and we feel sure that they will be fully competent to carry forward successfully their work in connection with the sanitarium. They will labor faithfully and earnestly. But the way had to be prepared so that they could work to advantage.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 3)
There are at Redlands some brethren and sisters who are able to help the institution with their means. We hope to meet these people and to inspire in them such confidence in the management of the sanitarium that they will feel free to give of their means and make liberal loans. The sanitarium is just beginning its work, and it greatly needs this help. The Lord has worked on minds, and a much more favorable condition of things exists here now than has existed for some time. We hope much from this, and we pray much that the Lord may soften hearts by His grace, and that His truth may triumph.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 4)
I was very sick for three weeks after reaching San Diego. I am still weak, but I am slowly growing stronger. I am thankful to our heavenly Father that He has been gracious to us and has spared my life. I caught cold in some way, and for a long time my throat was very sore. I coughed a great deal. During the time that I was the worst, I kept close to my room and did not allow any one to come in but Sara and Maggie. I isolated myself, fearing that other members of the family might catch the influenza from me.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 5)
I have not slept well since leaving home because whether sick or well, I have carried a heavy burden for these two sanitariums in Southern California. The buildings that have been purchased have stood for many years unoccupied, and there has been much to do to fit them up for patients. When we reached the Paradise Valley, we found that Brother and Sister Palmer had accomplished a great deal in repairing the building and buying furniture. Nearly half the rooms in the sanitarium are furnished. Brother Palmer found some beautiful furniture for sale by wealthy peoples leaving the district, and he purchased this furniture for the sanitarium. It is of first-class quality, but cost only as much as cheap furniture. The furniture includes bureaus, washstands, rugs, easy chairs, and a good sideboard for the dining room.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 6)
We found the workmen busy digging a well on the lower part of the land. This work has gone forward successfully, without accident of any kind, and I am very glad to be able to tell you that a good supply of soft, pure water has been found. The workmen went down ninety feet, and one morning, when they went to work, they found eighteen feet of water in the well, with all their tools at the bottom. That morning Brother Palmer and your father came to my room, their faces lighted up with smiles, to tell me about the water in the well. O I wish you could have seen the joy in their faces.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 7)
To get the water out of the well was the problem now. The workmen set the pumping engine going at once, but they found that this lowered the water very slowly. So they sent for a larger cylinder and a larger pipe, and finally they got the water pumped out.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 8)
They dug down a few feet farther and then began making a large reservoir to hold the water flowing in. It will be a difficult matter to make this reservoir, but the well digger thoroughly understands his business and is making steady progress. I shall be glad to hear that the work on this new well has all been so successfully accomplished.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 9)
We hope that you can all see the Paradise Valley Sanitarium sometime, but we are glad that you were not with us this time; for the workmen were busy all over the house, painting the floors and the sides of the rooms and halls, and you would not have found it very enjoyable. When they began painting at San Diego, I was afraid that the smell of the paint might hurt me, so we came to Glendale. And lo, we found the same thing going on here. But so far the smell of the paint has not troubled me at all.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 10)
There is already one patient in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. She seems to be a very nice woman. Other patients are waiting and will come as soon as the building is ready. The night before we left, Sara said to me, “Two more patients came this evening.”“Where will they put them?” I asked. “In the barn, I guess,” was her answer. Then she explained that these patients were the two cows that some one in San Pasqual had given to the sanitarium. San Pasqual is thirty miles away, and the cows were brought overland in a large wagon drawn by four horses. Your father and some of the brethren visited this place while we were in San Diego and told the brethren and sisters there about the sanitarium and its needs. As a result, they received quite a little sum of money, some poultry, and these two cows.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 11)
The workmen at the sanitarium are all cheerful and hardworking. Every morning and evening they have a season of worship. For a day or two after reaching here, I met with them and enjoyed this privilege very much. The blessing of the Lord rested upon us, and I was very sorry when sickness prevented me from attending.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 12)
Before we left, Sister Palmer had a touch of influenza, and since reaching here we have heard that Sister Rathbun, her mother, has come down with it. They feared that Brother Palmer also would take it. But I do not think they caught it from me; for the influenza is going all through San Diego.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 13)
Children, he helpful to your mother. Obey her word promptly, and the Lord will bless you. God said, “I know Abraham, that he will”—coax? no;—“that he will command his children and his household after him, and they will keep the way of the Lord to do justice and judgment.” [Genesis 18:19.] God expects parents to bring their children up to obey Him. Should your father and mother allow you to do wrong things, without correcting you, they would displease God. Those parents who allow children to have their own way are neglecting their duty, and God will hold them accountable for not restraining their children. Many parents indulge their children and thus encourage habits that ought to be corrected. Unless these habits are corrected, the children will grow up with unlovely, disagreeable characters.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 14)
God wants you, Henry and Herbert, to behave like little gentlemen. When you speak kind words and do right deeds, you are forming characters that God can approve. He will be pleased to call you the lambs of His flock, and He will bless you.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 15)
The angels of heaven are guarding and guiding you constantly, always keeping you from harm and danger. I pray that your words and acts may be such that God can look upon them with approval. Dear children, do not allow yourselves to do one wrong act. Your father and mother love you, but they cannot love wrongdoing. They are made very sorry when you do wrong. Will you not try to remember this? Will you not try to overcome all your faults because you love Jesus who gave His life for you?
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 16)
Indulgence hurts the characters of children and makes them such as God cannot approve. Your father and mother are trying to bring you up to be unselfish, truthful, kind, tenderhearted. They want to help you to prepare for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for you. He has promised to come again and take you to Himself, that where He is, there you may be also. Then put away every fault, and prepare yourselves to be received into the heavenly home, where you will be happy forever and ever.
(19LtMs, Lt 319, 1904, 17)
Lt 321, 1904
Druillard, Sister [N. H.] Redlands, California December 10, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 235-240. Dear Sister Druillard,—
I have a pile of letters partially written, and I have been looking them over to see which ought to be copied; but I have now laid them all aside to write to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 1)
Willie, Sara, Maggie, and I have been in Southern California for six weeks. From College View, I returned to Battle Creek, in fulfilment of my promise. I remained there a week and then started home. You will remember that while I was at College View, I caught a severe cold. I did not get rid of this cold, and I was thoroughly exhausted when I reached home. We remained in St. Helena for three weeks, and during this time we buried Marian. I cannot tell you how keenly I felt and continue to feel the loss of my faithful helper, whom I so highly prized.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 2)
On our way to Los Angeles, we called at Fresno and spent the Sabbath there. I spoke to our people on Sabbath afternoon. We were unable to get accommodations on the train going from Fresno to Los Angeles Saturday evening, so we decided to spend Sunday in Hanford, visiting old friends. On arriving there, we found a series of meetings in progress. We took dinner with Sister Grey, Sister Haskell’s sister. She urged us so strongly to remain with her for three or four days, and attend the meetings to be held in the different places near there, that we consented. Sister Grey gave us a very hearty welcome to her home, and we had a pleasant time there. She has, as you know, a large fruit ranch, and she has been successful in her work. She took us driving several times. It had been years since we visited Hanford, and I was glad to see our old friends again.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 3)
I was glad of the opportunity of speaking to the people in the Hanford-Lemoore district, and I decided to bring before them the needs of the Southern work, and especially the needs of the Huntsville school. This I did, and Willie also made earnest appeals for the work in the South. I spoke twice in Hanford, once in Lemoore, and once in Armona. I presented the Word of God just as it reads. In each place the attendance was good. I had freedom in speaking. When on my feet before the people, I seemed to be stronger than I had been for years, but when I got back to the house again, my strength seemed to leave me. I felt worn out and could not write.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 4)
The first day, after speaking, I rode five miles to Sister Grey’s, and I got chilled. This added to my cold.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 5)
From Hanford we went to Los Angeles, where we stayed over Sabbath and Sunday. We had rooms in the restaurant building, but, as you know, this is in a very noisy part of the city, and I did not sleep well. I spoke on Sabbath and Sunday in the large tent in which Brother W. W. Simpson has been holding meetings. The Lord helped me to speak, and all present seemed to be much interested.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 6)
The day after we reached Los Angeles, several of us went out to see the sanitarium building at Glendale. This building is well adapted for sanitarium purposes and is in a beautiful location. At present, preparations are being made as fast as possible for the opening of the institution. Treatment rooms have been put up, and almost all the rooms in the house have been repainted.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 7)
From Los Angeles we went to San Diego, where we stayed for three weeks. We stayed at the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, which is also being fitted up for the reception of patients. We found that Brother E. R. Palmer had done faithful and economical work in repairing and partly fitting up this building. Preparations for the opening of the institution were being hastened forward; for several persons had already expressed themselves as anxious to enter the institution for treatment.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 8)
We were somewhat surprised to find that so much had already been done toward preparing this building for work. By taking advantage of several sales of furniture by wealthy persons leaving the building, Brother Palmer secured several lots of first-class furniture at a very low price, and we found about half the rooms furnished.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 9)
It is rather strange that I should be the first patient in the building. I was sick all the time I was there. I had a very sore throat and a dry, hard cough, which at times seemed as if it would take away by breath. Sara gave me thorough treatment, and I was somewhat better when we left San Diego.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 10)
I must not forget to tell you about the well. When we reached the sanitarium, we found that the workmen had gone down about eighty feet in digging a well on the lower part of the sanitarium land. They had already found a little water, but expected to find much more. They were going to dig down still farther, through the clay to the gravel below. One evening Brother Palmer came to my room, with his face full of joy, to tell me that the water was flowing into the well in a stream as big as his hand. The next morning Willie and Brother Palmer came up early to tell me that there were fourteen feet of water in the well. The water is soft and pure, and we are greatly rejoiced to know that there is an abundant supply. This well is a treasure more valuable than gold or silver or precious stones.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 11)
We left San Diego about ten days ago and came to Los Angeles, where we spent a few days at the Glendale Sanitarium. From there we went to Redlands, where we are now. Redlands is about sixty-five miles from Los Angeles. We are staying with Brother and Sister E. S. Ballenger. A series of tent-meetings was recently held both in Redlands and in Riverside, and a church was raised up in each place. Brother Ballenger was anxious that I should speak to the believers in these two places. This morning I spoke in the Redlands church. I spoke for thirty minutes and could have spoken longer, but dared not venture. This is the first time that I have been able to speak in public for four weeks.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 12)
I wish you could see this country. To me it is something like Melrose, though in some respects not nearly so lovely. There are some very large orange and lemon groves here, and just now these groves are a beautiful sight; for the trees are covered with the golden fruit. The climate in this valley is very good.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 13)
I think that the locality where you are is an excellent one, and for some things I should prefer it to this place. I admire the large trees on the school farm very much. The school farm has many advantages, and I have great hopes that our brethren in the South may be able to see that this farm is the place for a sanitarium. It is not one mile too far from Nashville. I do hope that Brethren Hayward and Hansen may decide that it is the best place on which to establish the sanitarium. The sanitarium and the school could blend together and be a help to one another. Then, too, it would be a saving of money.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 14)
I have hoped that the place which Edson has just left might be used for a colored sanitarium. It is really needed for this purpose.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 15)
I have no hesitation in saying that I think that a part of the school farm would be the best place for the white sanitarium. Perhaps you can place before our brethren there the suggestions I have made regarding this, and then they can decide for themselves the other matters that would need to be decided, such as the distance between the school and the sanitarium. I know the Lord will give you all counsel, if you will ask Him for it, and will open your hearts to receive the Holy Spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 16)
Sunday morning
I praise the Lord with a thankful heart; for I slept well during the night. This morning we shall drive to Riverside, a distance of fifteen miles, and I shall try to speak to the church there. Our people in that place need help, and I pray that God will give me words for them.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 17)
We shall return to Los Angeles tomorrow. Brother E. R. Palmer has written for us to meet him there. He is coming up from San Diego to meet his two eldest children, who are coming from the East.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 18)
I cannot write more now. I hope that you are all well and trusting in the Lord. If ever there was a time when we needed to pray, it is now. Let us be of good courage in God and move forward in faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 19)
With love to you all
(19LtMs, Lt 321, 1904, 20)
Lt 323, 1904
Palmer, Brother and Sister [E. R.] Glendale, California December 12, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Palmer,—
I am sitting on a lounge in my room in the Glendale Sanitarium. A fire is burning in the fireplace, and this makes it very comfortable. We find the weather here very much cooler than it was in San Diego. Today a fine, misty rain is falling. I have had several spells of coughing today, but I have been taking honey and eucalyptus, and this is helping me. I do not feel very well; for there is a tremendous load upon my mind. In response to Sister Simpson’s urgent inquiries, I have had to tell her that her husband is not qualified to be the business manager of this institution. It makes me sick to have to do this, and I shall be sick until the whole matter is settled.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 1)
I know that some of the arrangements that we shall have to make will be very disappointing to Dr. Simpson. Nevertheless I must bear the message that it is so hard for me to bear—that Brother Simpson is not capable of filling the place of manager. He has not the necessary spiritual qualifications. I am afraid that if he is not put in as business manager, we shall not be able to retain Dr. Simpson. I do not see how we can spare her. But the Lord Jesus knows all about our perplexities. I am very sorry that things are as they are, but I must speak the truth just as it is and let the result be what it may. The man who has charge of this institution must have an intelligent, practical experience in the things of God. He must be able to do the work necessary to be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 2)
On reaching here, we found Brother and Sister Simpson and their family living out at Glendale. A few of the rooms have been furnished. The new treatment rooms have been added to the building and are now being plastered. The first coat of plaster is on, and the second will be put on the last of next week. As soon as possible, the institution will be prepared for the reception of patients, but there is much yet to be done.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 3)
This is an expensive building, costing the original owners about forty thousand dollars, but much of the money was absorbed in outside appearance. There are three or four small towers on the house. Inside the building is not so well finished as the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. The woodwork in general is not so substantial. The rooms are pleasant, and the location of the building is very good. The place is a sightly one. There are eucalyptus trees, pepper trees, and pine trees in the garden.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 4)
Everything was made very pleasant and convenient for me in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. We do not find things quite so convenient here, but no one is to blame. I have been heartily welcomed.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 5)
I am glad to know that you have such good, substantial furniture in your building. Watch the papers, and you may have opportunity to make other purchases such as those you have already made. But do not purchase a cheap class of furniture. It is a loss to do this. I hope that you are still successful in your efforts to get a good supply of water.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 6)
May the Lord strengthen and bless and teach and guide you at every step. Oh, the Lord is good! Let us praise His holy name, and talk courage and hope. I think of you all. I think of the well digger and pray that no accident may befall him. He has done excellent service, as have all the workmen. They have labored as if it were their own property they were trying to improve.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 7)
Let us all seek the Lord most earnestly, expecting to receive the blessing. He will help us, and He would have us hopeful and cheerful, our hearts filled with thanksgiving and praise. Let us not look on the dark side, but on the bright side; and let us talk faith and hope and courage, and hold fast to the hand of divine power.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 8)
I hope that we shall hear from you now and then. I am sorry to hear that Sister Rathbun has come down with the influenza.
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 9)
In love
(19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, 10)
Lt 325, 1904
Brethren and Sisters in Southern California Los Angeles, California December 12, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in LLM 79-82. To our brethren and sisters in Southern California,—
I am instructed to bear a message to you. You have a great work to do in soul-saving, but you cannot accomplish this work by following manmade plans and human devisings.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 1)
Special light has been given me regarding the character and magnitude of the work to be done in Los Angeles. Several times messages have been given regarding the duty that rests upon us of proclaiming the third angel’s message with power in that city.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 2)
And now, as we see that the Lord has blessed the labors of Brother Simpson and his faithful helpers, and that large additions have been made to the Los Angeles church, it is our duty to be wide-awake to the privileges and opportunities of the hour. Wherever such an interest is awakened as that which is now manifested in Los Angeles, men of the best ability should be called in to help with the work. They should enter heartily into the work of visiting and holding Bible readings with those newly come to the faith and with those interested, laboring to establish them in the faith. The new believers are to be carefully instructed, that they may have an intelligent knowledge of the various lines of work committed to the church of Christ. One or two men should not be left alone with the burden of such a work.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 3)
For a long time our people in Southern California have had messages from the lord that there should be sanitariums near Los Angeles. For want of means the work has been delayed. But not long ago a building at Glendale, eight miles from Los Angeles, was purchased and is now being fitted up for the work. I have visited the building and can say that it is beautifully situated and is well adapted for sanitarium work.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 4)
Ample treatment rooms are being added to the building, which will soon be fully equipped. Between twenty and thirty rooms are being furnished, and as soon as money is provided for its purchase, a much-needed heating plant will be quickly installed.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 5)
We hope that our people in Southern California will come quickly and heartily to the support of this sanitarium, so providentially placed in our hands, and that it may begin without delay to do its work.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 6)
The Lord has not been honored or glorified by the past showing of the sanitarium work in Southern California. This work has been greatly hindered because men have relied upon human devising, instead of following the Lord’s leading. Dependence has been placed upon human wisdom, and failure has been the result. But we now see a united force of workers anxious to push the enterprise forward along right lines, and we are confident that if they will follow the Lord’s instruction and rely upon His guidance, He will co-operate with them.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 7)
Elder J. A. Burden has been chosen as business manager of the institution, and Sister Burden is to be bookkeeper. Brother Burden has had a long experience in the St. Helena Sanitarium. He also spent about three years in Australia, acting an important part in the building up of the Sydney Sanitarium. His self-denying efforts and unselfish labors in connection with this institution were greatly appreciated.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 8)
Sister Burden is an intelligent and successful bookkeeper. Gladly would we have had her take the place of matron, but we feel that she is in the path of duty in taking charge of the accounts; for this is a most important line of work.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 9)
We are very much encouraged as we see these self-denying laborers taking hold of the work at the Glendale Sanitarium. They have had a wide experience in sanitarium work, and they understand how sanitariums should be conducted in order to be successful.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 10)
Dr. Leadsworth is endeavoring to dispose of his treatment rooms in Riverside, that he may act a leading part on the medical staff of the Glendale Sanitarium. Dr. Abbey Winegar-Simpson is to be the lady physician and will stand at the head of the training school for nurses. She is fully capable of filling this position. Dr. Abbott, also, will assist in the medical work of the institution.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 11)
Brother W. R. Simpson has been chosen to act as purchasing agent. In this work he will be brought into contact with many business men and will have opportunity to reveal the high, ennobling principles of truth. He can speak words in season to some who will appreciate the light thus given them. He is constantly to be watching for souls as one who must give an account.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 12)
These workers, each doing a special line of work, are to harmonize and counsel together, seeking wisdom from Him who never makes a mistake. Each has an important place to fill. We feel that the approval of God will rest upon this company of workers. They are to seek to help one another as each takes up his important line of work.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 13)
One night we seemed to be in a council meeting, and the question being considered was, How can the sanitarium work in Southern California be best advanced? One present proposed one thing and still another proposed something entirely opposite.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 14)
One of dignity and authority arose and said, “I have words of counsel for you. Never, never repeat the mistakes of the past. Men have placed too much confidence in themselves and have allowed cultivated and hereditary tendencies to wrong, which ought to have been overcome, to control and to bear away the victory. Various lines of work are to be earnestly carried forward, for the enlightening of those who are in spiritual darkness. Evangelical work must receive first attention and is to be intelligently carried forward in all lines of your medical work.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 15)
“You have,” said our Instructor, “come to an important place in the history of your work. Who shall be chosen to carry responsibilities in the sanitarium at the beginning of its work? No mistake must be made in this matter. Men are not to be placed in positions of trust who have not been tested and tried. Men and women who understand the will of the Lord are to be chosen—men who can discern the work that needs to be done, and prayerfully do it, that the mistakes and errors of the past need not be repeated.”
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 16)
“The one who is placed in the position of business manager,” He said, “must daily be managed by the Lord. He occupies a very important place, and he must possess the necessary qualifications for the work. He should have dignity and knowledge, blended with a clear sense of how to use his authority. Christ must be revealed in his life. He must be a man who can give religious instruction and exert a spiritual influence. He must know how to deal with minds, and he must allow his own mind to be controlled by the Spirit. Wisdom is to come forth from his lips in words of encouragement to all with whom he is connected. He must know how to discern and correct mistakes. He must be a man who will harmonize with his fellow workers, a man who possesses adaptability. He should be able to speak of the different points of our faith, as occasion requires. His words and acts should reveal justice, judgment, and the love of God.”
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 17)
He who gave the Israelites instruction from the pillar of cloud, and led them through the wilderness into the promised land, is our leader today. We are under divine guidance, and if we are obedient to God’s commands, we shall be in perfect safety and will receive distinguished marks of His favor.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 18)
The Israelites were often suggesting their own plans. Often they refused to follow God’s plans, and this always led to failure and defeat. Christ led them through the wilderness that they might be separated from all that would tend to interfere with His purposes for them. During their journey, He gave them instruction through Moses. These truths are to be gathered up and cherished by His people today and are to be sacredly obeyed.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 19)
No imagination can present the rich blessings that come to those who learn diligently of God. These blessings are secured through the most diligent efforts to advance the work in every way possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 20)
The throne of God is arched by the bow of promise. Every Christian worker should keep ever before him the remembrance of this emblem. A covenant-keeping God holds the reins of guidance. He is to bear rule in every home, in every church, in every school, in every printing office, in every sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 21)
Our medical missionary work is to be to the third angel’s message as the right hand to the body. Our sanitariums are one great means of doing medical missionary work. They are to reach the people where they are. The workers in our sanitariums are to be sympathetic, kind, and straightforward in their dealings with one another and with the patients. Their words and acts are to be noble and upright. They are ever to receive from Christ light and grace to impart to those in darkness. By their efforts the sick, the sinful, the prodigals, who have left the Father’s house, are to be encouraged to return. God’s words to these workers are, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end.” [Matthew 28:20.] “Fear not, neither be discouraged; for I am thy God.” [See Isaiah 41:10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 22)
We are now called upon to show an unselfish interest in establishing sanitarium work in Los Angeles and in San Diego. Sanitariums and treatment rooms are greatly needed in these places. A work is to be done that will open the Bible to the sick and suffering and point them to the great Medical Missionary.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 23)
My brethren and sisters, I ask you to remember that money is needed to advance the work at the Glendale Sanitarium. Do you wish to act a part in the important work that the Lord has given us to do in that institution? Will you now do your best to help us to secure the necessary facilities for the advancement of its work? Intelligent, self-denying, self-sacrificing effort is now needed, effort put forth by those who realize the solemnity and importance of the Lord’s work. The medical missionary work given us to do means much to every one of us. It is a work of soul-saving. Christian philanthropists should step forward just now to fulfil the commission of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 24)
Let our brethren send in their gifts with thanksgiving and with prayer, that they may be multiplied and blessed by the Lord, as was the food given to the disciples to give to the five thousand. If we make the best use we can of the means we have, God will enable us to reach the multitudes that are starving for the bread of life.
(19LtMs, Lt 325, 1904, 25)
Lt 327, 1904
Starr, G. B. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 20, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Starr,—
I have a letter of several pages written to you, but in moving from place to place, I have mislaid it. I dare not take time to look for it now; for the mail must go today, and I wish to write you a few lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 327, 1904, 1)
I have had a serious illness since attending the Omaha camp-meeting. I caught a severe cold there, and I have not yet gotten rid of it. But I am gradually recovering. I thank the Lord that He is giving me physical and mental strength. The particulars are in the letter that will be sent to you later.
(19LtMs, Lt 327, 1904, 2)
You ask in regard to Brother Hare. Do not let him become discouraged. Encourage him to go out before unbelievers and break up new ground. He is not the best qualified to deal with minds in a school room. His work is to present the truth to unbelievers. The more simple the instruction and the more determined the enforcement, the greater will be the success of his work. Brother Hare should not be placed in a school room; for his ability is far more needed in our cities in calling sinners to repentance. Every man has his special work to do. Brother Hare has a place, and that place he is to fill. He is adapted to proclaim the truth to outsiders. I behold him addressing unbelievers with success. Let him go out as he has done in the past and labor most earnestly. The worldwide message must be given, and Brother Hare is to act his part in proclaiming this message.
(19LtMs, Lt 327, 1904, 3)
Please talk with Elder Irwin regarding this matter.
(19LtMs, Lt 327, 1904, 4)
I have done a great deal of work during the past year in traveling and speaking and writing. The Lord has wondrously sustained me, and I give His holy name all the glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 327, 1904, 5)
Lt 329, 1904
Simpson, Sister “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 20, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 56; AH 160, 270. Dear Sister Simpson,—
On one occasion, when we were talking together about your experience and your work, you asked me, “Have you told me all?” I could not say more at that time. Often representations are given me which at first I do not understand. But after a time they are made plain by a repeated presentation of those things that I did not at first comprehend, in ways that make their meaning clear and unmistakable.
(19LtMs, Lt 329, 1904, 1)
There is one thing that I did not then feel capable of explaining, which it will be well for you to understand. It is this: Your marriage to one who is a father of children will prove to be a blessing to you as a practicing physician, if you correctly understand your responsibilities and act wisely your part. You were in danger of becoming self-centered. You had precious traits of character that needed to be awakened and exercised. The duties devolving upon you as a physician will be much more perfectly understood as you learn the lessons that will come to you in the home. Through your new relations you will gain an experience that will teach you how to deal with minds. By the care of children, affection, love, and tenderness are developed. The responsibilities resting upon you in your family may be a means of great blessing to you. These children will be to you a precious lesson book. They will bring you many blessings if you read them aright. The train of thought awakened by their care will call into exercise tenderness, love, and sympathy. Although these children are not a part of your flesh and blood, yet through your marriage to their father, they have become yours, to be loved, cherished, instructed, and ministered to by you. Your connection with them will call into exercise thoughts and plans that will be of genuine benefit to you in your work as a physician. By the experience that you will gain in your home, you will lose the self-centered ideas that threatened to mar your work and will change the set plans that have needed softening and subduing.
(19LtMs, Lt 329, 1904, 2)
It is to be a part of your work to educate, to train, to love these children. This will not detract from, but will improve your work as a Christian physician. You have needed to develop greater tenderness and larger sympathy, that you might come close to those in need of gentle, sympathetic, loving words. Your children will call out these traits of character and will help you to develop breadth of mind and judgment. Through loving association with them, you will learn to be more tender and sympathetic in your ministry for suffering humanity.
(19LtMs, Lt 329, 1904, 3)
I have a very tender interest in all children; for I became a sufferer at a very early age. I have taken many children to care for, and I have always felt that association with the simplicity of childhood was a great blessing to me. I thank God that I have been enabled to help many children of varied minds and dispositions. I tried to minister to them as Christ’s property, and I rejoice to think that most of them are serving the Lord in responsible positions.
(19LtMs, Lt 329, 1904, 4)
Children can be taught the art of ministry. The sick may be helped and blessed by coming in contact with the hopefulness and buoyancy of youth. Many who are physically, mentally, and morally diseased might have been saved from this had they from their youth sought to be a blessing to others.
(19LtMs, Lt 329, 1904, 5)
The sympathy, forbearance, and love required in dealing with children would be a blessing in any household. They would soften and subdue set traits of character in those who need to be more cheerful and restful. The presence of a child in a home sweetens and refines. A child brought up in the fear of the Lord is a blessing in any household. God would have older people appreciate the cheerfulness of little children.
(19LtMs, Lt 329, 1904, 6)
May the Lord abundantly bless you and your children. May you receive a great blessing in caring for them.
(19LtMs, Lt 329, 1904, 7)
Lt 331, 1904
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 21, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 244-249. Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
Several times since leaving home I began letters to you, but before these letters were finished, I was called to attend council meetings or to speak to the people in public, and so my letters were never completed.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 1)
I greatly desire to see among our people that general arousing that there should be in every church. I am grateful to our heavenly Father that the Wahroonga Sanitarium is doing good work. May the Lord bestow His most precious blessing upon this institution.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 2)
I will try to send you copies of letters that may be of interest to you. In the night season I was talking with you both. I had some things to say to you on the diet question. I was talking freely with you, telling you that you would have to make changes in your ideas in regard to the diet to be given those who come to the sanitarium from the world. These people have lived improperly, on rich food. They are suffering as a result of indulgence of appetite. A reform in their habits of eating and drinking is needed. But this reform cannot be made all at once. The change must be made gradually. The health foods set before them must be appetizing. All their lives, perhaps, they have had three meals a day and have eaten rich food. It is an important matter to reach these people with the truths of health reform. But in order to lead them to adopt a sensible diet, you must set before them an abundant supply of wholesome, appetizing food. Changes must not be made so abruptly that they will be turned from health reform, instead of being led to it. The food served to them must be nicely prepared, and it must be richer than either you or I would eat.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 3)
I write this because something needs to be done to set forth the principles of true health reform. Have you a cook who can prepare dishes that the patients cannot help but see an improvement on the diet to which they have been accustomed? The one who does the cooking in a sanitarium should be able to make wholesome, appetizing food combinations, and these food combinations must necessarily be somewhat richer than you or I would I would eat.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 4)
I write this because I am sure that the Lord means you to have tact in meeting the people where they are, in their darkness and self-indulgence. As far as I am concerned personally, I am decidedly in favor of a plain, simple diet. But it will not be best to put worldly, self-indulgent patients on a diet so strict that they will be turned from health reform. This will not convince them of the need of a change in their habits of eating and drinking. Tell them the facts. Educate them to see the need of a plain, simple diet, and make the change gradually. Give them time to respond to the treatment and the instruction given them. Work and pray, and lead them along as gently as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 5)
I remember once at Summer Hill, when at the sanitarium there, I was urged to sit at the table with the patients, and eat with them, that we might become acquainted. I saw then that a decided mistake was being made in the preparation of the food. It was put together in such a way that it was tasteless, and there was not more than two-thirds enough. I found it impossible to make a meal that would satisfy my appetite. I tried to bring about a different order of things, and I think that matters were helped.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 6)
In dealing with the patients in our sanitariums, we must reason from cause to effect. We must remember that the habits and practices of a lifetime cannot be changed in a moment. With an intelligent cook, and an abundant supply of wholesome food, reforms can be brought about that will work well. But it may take time to bring them about. A strenuous effort should not be made unless it is actually demanded. We must remember that food which would be appetizing to a health reformer might be very insipid to those who have been accustomed to highly seasoned food.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 7)
Lectures should be given explaining why reforms in diet are essential, and showing that the use of highly seasoned food causes inflammation of the delicate lining of the digestive organs. Let it be shown why we as a people have changed our habits of eating and drinking. Show why we discard tobacco and all intoxicating liquor. Lay down the principles of health reform clearly and plainly, and with this let there be placed on the table an abundance of wholesome food, tastefully prepared; and the Lord will help you to make impressive the urgency of reform and will lead them to see that this reform is for their highest good. They will miss the highly seasoned food to which they have been accustomed, but an effort must be made to give them food that is so wholesome and so appetizing that they will cease to miss the unwholesome dishes. Show them that the treatment given them will not benefit them unless they make the needed change in their habits of eating and drinking.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 8)
The principles of health reform are of the greatest importance and should be sacredly cherished by us as a people. It pains me to see that there are among us ministers who, though supposed to be health reformed, are such only in name. Often worldlings are found to be more ready to reform than are many of the members of our churches. If those who have had the light for so many years are not willing to walk in this light, how can we expect those who have had no experience in the truth to make an entire change at once in their habits of living?
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 9)
I write you this that you may make it as easy as possible for those who come to the sanitarium knowing nothing of health reform from a Bible standpoint.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 10)
Again, we must remember that there are a great many different minds in the world, and we cannot expect every one to see exactly as we do in regard to all questions of diet. Minds do not run in exactly the same channel. I do not eat butter, but there are members of my family who do. It is not placed on my table; but I make no disturbance because some members of my family choose to eat it occasionally. Many of our conscientious brethren have butter on their tables, and I feel under no obligation to force them to do otherwise. These things should never be allowed to cause disturbance among brethren. I cannot see the need of butter, where there is an abundance of fruit and of sterilized cream. Those who love and serve God should be allowed to follow their own convictions. We may not feel justified in doing as they do, but we should not allow differences of opinion to create disunion. May the Lord help us to be as firm as a rock to the principles of the law spoken from Sinai, and may He help us not to allow differences of opinion to be a barrier between us and our brethren.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 11)
From a copy of a letter that I am sending you, you will see what is being done in Southern California in regard to opening up the Glendale Sanitarium and the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. We feel very grateful to God that these two new institutions can be placed in operation.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 12)
I spent three weeks at the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, but was sick all the time. I contracted a severe cold on my way down there. In order that the others in the building might not be exposed, I kept very closely to my own room. The day before I left, Brother and Sister Richardson insisted on seeing me, that they might tell me of the many advantages that Jamaica possesses for sanitarium work. I certainly hope that this field may be entered by earnest laborers. I shall not attempt to tell you what Brother and Sister Richardson told me; for I was sick at the time and could not hear all they said.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 13)
You will be glad to know that we have obtained an ample supply of water for the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. The scarcity of water was the one thing against the place. Sometime ago workmen began digging a well on the lower part of the sanitarium land. They went down eighty feet, and one evening Brother Palmer came to my room to tell me that a stream of water as large as his hand was running into the well. The next morning early he and Willie came to my room to tell me that there was fourteen feet of water in the well. The water is soft and pure. This well is a treasure more valuable than gold or silver or precious stones.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 14)
Now that water has been secured, the sanitarium will, with the blessing of God, prove a success. There will be water enough for domestic and irrigating purposes. There are a number of olive trees on the place, and these can now be saved.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 15)
The work is going forward in Los Angeles. As the result of the labors of Brother W. W. Simpson, one hundred and twenty-five have embraced the truth. Brother Simpson explains the prophecies very clearly, showing plainly that the end is near. Several Catholics have been converted to the faith. The contributions taken have covered all expenses.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 16)
The Lord certainly works with Brother Simpson. I wish there were a hundred such workers in the field, giving the last warning message to the world and winning souls to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 331, 1904, 17)
Lt 333, 1904
Butler, G. I. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 14, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 309. Dear Brother Butler,—
I sat down this morning to write a few lines to you, and I have written quite a letter. I have written as fast as my hand could travel over the paper. I have not read your letter, but am holding it for Willie to read.
(19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, 1)
I understand fully in regard to your head-weariness. I know that we must not presume on our brain power; for the nerves of the brain will not bear overtaxation. I do not feel surprised that you have decided that it will be best for you to do manual work for a while. I would not say anything to discourage you in this.
(19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, 2)
We are tempted to feel discouraged when we see men who should be sharing the burdens of the work making strange paths for their feet. This cuts us to the quick. But we must remember that God lives and reigns. He rules in the heavens. Rest your case in His hands. Get out of the immediate sight of the burdens for a while, and press close to Jesus. Do your best in the fear of God, and leave the results with Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, 3)
We all need to come under Christ’s rule, to be subordinated to His Holy Spirit. Man can be a child of God only as he separates from selfishness. It is because man does not separate from selfishness that we see so little of Christlike patience, Christlike sympathy, Christlike self-denial and sacrifice.
(19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, 4)
We are bidden to purify ourselves even as Christ is pure. But in every branch of the work we shall meet with unsanctified, unrefined men. We shall have such men to contend with, and there is that which makes me tremble when I think of what is before us. And yet our divine Lord, in order to make men free from the curse of the law, came to this world to work out a perfect character, to live a life of perfect obedience, to show what heavenly grace can do for human beings.
(19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, 5)
“I am the light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “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.”“God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” [2 Corinthians 3:18; 4:6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, 6)
What wonderful possibilities these words hold out. Shall we fall short of reaching the standard placed before us?
(19LtMs, Lt 333, 1904, 7)
Lt 335, 1904
Hare, G. A. and his associate physicians Melrose, Massachusetts August 22, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in Ev 86; 3BC 1156. To Dr. Hare and his associate physicians,—
The Lord is very merciful. He has borne long with the neglect of His people to do the very work that should have been done twenty years ago in Washington. I thank the Lord that He has opened the way for a sanitarium and a school and a printing office to be established near Washington. The Lord has graciously opened the way, and if those who have this work in hand will allow themselves to be controlled by the Holy Spirit, the work will advance rapidly. God in His providence has opened the way for this work to be done, that from the capital of this nation the light of truth shall shine forth.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 1)
The location that has been selected for the buildings is a beautiful one, and the surrounding community is a good one. There is no saloon in the township of Takoma Park. Thus it might be in every town and city, if men would be guided by God.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 2)
There is an abundance of water on the place that has been purchased, and excellent sewerage facilities have been provided by the Town Council. We have much to be thankful for in the kindness that has been shown us by the members of the Council and in the welcome that we have received from the people of Takoma Park.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 3)
We look upon it as a special advantage that the school and the sanitarium can be located on the same tract of land, though of course they are not to be close enough to each other to interfere with one another.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 4)
Some difficulties have been experienced in the effort to purchase a piece of land for the printing office, but the Lord is good, and He will so manage matters that in the end things which now appear to be disadvantages will be seen to be advantages.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 5)
In the establishment of the work in Washington, and the erection of the buildings necessary, the strictest economy is to be shown in the outlay of means. Money is not to be spent for unnecessary ornamentation or display. The buildings are to be an object lesson. Those in charge of the work are ever to remember that no more money than is positively necessary is to be used in their erection, because calls are coming for buildings in other places, and one place is not to take more than its share. There are many, many places to be worked.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 6)
The Lord is pleased with the work that is being done at Takoma Park. There are precious souls to be saved in that place. The workmen are to be as true as steel to principle. In all their dealing, they are to observe the golden rule, doing unto others as they would wish others to do to them.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 7)
The father of lies has taken possession of human genius. The true, the noble, and the Christlike should be standing forth distinctly, but instead, the false and the ignoble are being woven into nearly everything. Lies are spoken, lies are acted, deception is practiced. The excuse is, Such things are common now-a-days. Falsehood has been brought into the church and is there entertained.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 8)
Let not those who profess to be Christians put Christ to open shame by a sham faith and an unholy practice. Those who take upon themselves the name of Christian are to wear His yoke, to learn His meekness and lowliness.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 9)
Why should we delay to begin work in our cities? We are not to wait for some wonderful thing to be done, or some costly apparatus to be provided, in order that a great display may be made. What is the chaff to the wheat? If we walk and work humbly before God, He will prepare the way before us. He will honor those who honor Him. And we feel sure that the workmen at Takoma Park are seeking to honor Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 10)
Why delay the endeavor to make the world better? However humble our sphere, however lowly our work, if we walk in harmony with our Saviour, He will reveal Himself through us, and our influence will draw souls to Him. He will honor the meek and lowly ones, who earnestly seek to do service for Him in the daily life. Into all that we do, whether we work in the shop, on the farm, or in the office, let us bring the endeavor to save souls. Let those who are engaged in building remember that they are building characters for eternity. Carry with you to your work a small pocket Bible from which, in a moment of leisure, you can gather a sweet morsel of comfort to pass on to others.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 11)
I shall not soon forget the gatherings for prayer and singing each morning by the workmen at Takoma Park. How precious these gatherings were. How my soul was comforted and refreshed by the singing and by the words of the book of life. There is no weariness in working for Jesus. Work for Him is not sullen drudgery, but peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. The assurance of His love sweetens toil, braces the arm, and stimulates the spirit. The Christian is spiritual minded, even in his work.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 12)
The Lord is looking upon the workers at Takoma Park with a “Well done” for every faithful one. [Matthew 25:21.] The efforts of these workers are helping to prepare them for the mansions that Christ has gone to make ready for those who love Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 13)
I was pleased, very much pleased, with the district surrounding our land in Takoma Park. The country is covered with beautiful trees, and hidden away amongst these trees there are many comfortable homes.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 14)
I was much pleased with the deportment of the workers at Takoma Park. Having managers who are kind and courteous is a wonderful incentive to earnest effort on the part of the workers. When those who are in charge speak pleasant words to the workmen, they will find that the workmen will speak pleasant words to them and to one another.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 15)
Let all read carefully the Word of God; for it is eternal life to know God and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 16)
“Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared. Beware of Him, and obey His voice, provoke Him not; for He will not pardon your transgressions; for My name is in Him. But if thou shalt indeed obey His voice, and do all that I speak; then will I be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries. For Mine Angel shall go before thee, and bring thee in unto the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizites, and the Canaanites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites; and I will cut them off. Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works; but thou shalt utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images. And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and He shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take away sickness from the midst of thee.” [Exodus 23:20-25.]
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 17)
It was Christ who guided the Israelites through the wilderness. And it is Christ who is guiding His people today, showing them where and how to work. He would have the warning given to Washington, the capital of this nation. Those who are connected with His work there are to thank the Lord for His guidance and show their faith in His keeping power. They are to remember that they are children of God, and that they are to cut away from their lives all hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil. In word and deed they are to live out the principles of truth. Those who profess to be children of God, and yet do that which He forbids, are more of an aid to the cause of the enemy than those who make no profession of Christianity. They deepen the impressions that Satan makes on minds. They give those who make no profession of godliness encouragement to continue in their evil way. We are to be on our guard to rebuke all evil doings. The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul, the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
(19LtMs, Lt 335, 1904, 18)
Lt 337, 1904
Nicola, B. E. NP December 25, 1904 [typed] This letter is published in entirety in PCO 103-104. Dear Brother Nicola,—
I am sorry that you were successful in retaining your position at the Huntsville school one year longer than some thought you ought. Whatever your qualifications may be, you are not the man to carry the Huntsville school forward successfully. By remaining at the school during the past year, you have put the institution back a year. I cannot see why this was permitted. The Lord is grieved when men of experience refuse to be true to their God-given work.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 1)
The Lord calls for men of a different stamp of character in some respects to connect with the Huntsville school, men who are not only capable teachers, but who can see the needs of the school and meet the situation wisely. In such a school as Huntsville, there is needed keenness of discernment and a knowledge of how to build up the work. Unless those in charge have clear discernment, unless they can see what needs to be done, the school will make an unworthy representation.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 2)
The instruction given me is that if the influence of your shortcomings were confined to your own family, it would not be so bad. But in the position that you have occupied, your defects have been an injury to many. You fail to see the importance of order and harmony and of allowing nothing to go to waste. You do not understand how to cure the evils that exist. This is your defect, and because of it many things about the school are neglected.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 3)
The world is watching Seventh-day Adventists, because it knows something of their peculiar beliefs and of the high standard they have;and when it sees those who do not live up to their profession, it points at them with scorn. The unbelievers living near the Huntsville school will see the neglect perpetuated there and will read beneath the surface.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 4)
Worldlings are glad to see defects in the lives of professing Christians; for they use these defects as justifying their own unchristlike course, as excusing their disregard of the requirements of God. When they see lax practices in the management of such a place as the Huntsville school, they build themselves up, and accusing conscience is quieted.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 5)
There must be no pretense in the lives of those who have so sacred and solemn a message as we have been given to bear. Every transaction connected with the Huntsville school should be an object lesson, revealing the perfection that God requires in the work of His children.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 6)
The Huntsville school farm is a most beautiful place, and with the three hundred acres of land, much should be accomplished in industrial training and in the raising of crops. The teachers in our schools should remember that they are not only to give the students lessons from books. They are to teach them how to earn their own living by honest work.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 7)
Let us remember what is due to our Christian profession, and let us be careful not to place stumbling blocks in the way of sinners. Let not our teachers neglect those things that should have a prominent place in the training of all students. The ability to see and remedy defects in the fixtures of the home or the farm is necessary to a complete education. Teach the students to watch for repairs that need to be made and to keep things up in proper shape.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 8)
A careless neglect in the things of this life means neglect in the things of the spiritual life. The progress of missionaries in foreign lands is often impeded by a failure to attend to little things. Those who perform faithfully the smaller duties will show no lack in performing larger duties. Let students be taught that a neglect of little things means a failure in larger responsibilities.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 9)
Our Lord and Saviour would have the mind thoroughly cultivated. Forbid no aspirations or enterprises that pure religion sanctions. Let not those who take the name of Christian forget that they are to honor this name. Let them obey the instruction given in the first chapter of Second Peter. Those who do this will be richly blessed.
(19LtMs, Lt 337, 1904, 10)
Lt 339, 1904
Harper, Walter “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 26, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother Harper,—
Sister Hall has just read me your letter to her. I am glad that you are having success in selling my books; for thus you are giving to the world the light that God has given me. These books contain clear, straight, unalterable truth and they should certainly be appreciated. The instruction they contain is not of human production.
(19LtMs, Lt 339, 1904, 1)
I did not see your wife while I was in Battle Creek. I am somewhat surprised that she did not come to see me, if she were in the sanitarium while I was there. I wish to tell you that the last money you gave me, I think it was eighty-seven dollars, I sent to her, telling her that I thought you had placed it in my hands for that purpose, although you did not say so. I thought that perhaps this might incline her favorably toward you.
(19LtMs, Lt 339, 1904, 2)
Do not allow your mind to be troubled. I think that your matters will come out all right ere long, although I have seen neither your wife nor her mother, nor have I heard from either of them.
(19LtMs, Lt 339, 1904, 3)
I have a request to make of you. Will you lend me one thousand dollars? I will pay you interest on it and will give you my note. I usually pay four or five per cent. I am in need of money to aid in the publication of Ministry of Healing. I must get money from somewhere. If you can lend me one thousand dollars, I shall be greatly obliged.
(19LtMs, Lt 339, 1904, 4)
I have just returned from a stay of seven weeks in Southern California. During my trip to the East, I labored very hard, and when in a weakened state, I took a severe cold, which weakened me still more. I was sick all the time I was in San Diego. I had four weeks of suffering. I coughed a great deal, and my throat was very sore. I was not able to speak to the people while at San Diego. I spoke twice at Los Angeles. The meetings were held in a large tent in which Elder Simpson has been holding meetings. There were over a thousand present on Sabbath afternoon and one thousand on Sunday afternoon. Elder Simpson has had great success in his evangelistic work in Los Angeles. He tells me that one hundred and twenty-five have been baptized as a result of the meetings held.
(19LtMs, Lt 339, 1904, 5)
I have been writing all day, and the Lord has blessed me. I hope you will continue to have success in your work. Do not worry, but trust in the Lord, and make every effort possible to place our publications in the hands of the people, because these publications contain the truth that will enable men and women to stand the test in the days of trail before us. O how greatly I desire my large books, which I have taken such pains to produce, [to be] given a wide circulation. I want all to have them, because they contain essential instruction to reprove the erring, to encourage the downcast, to build up the wavering.
(19LtMs, Lt 339, 1904, 6)
Lt 341, 1904
Collins, Gilbert “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 22, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 16MR 26-29. Dear Brother Gilbert Collins,—
We are home again, and I am in my own room writing to you. I hoped to see you again while I was at Melrose and was quite disappointed that I did not. I wanted very much to have another talk with you.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 1)
I spoke five times in public while I was at Melrose. The Lord strengthened me and gave me a pointed testimony to bear that melted the hearts of those present. Those who bore the burden of the camp-meeting were at times sorely tried. They had been passing through trials that had severely tested their courage and hopefulness. The Lord gave me a message for them and for all assembled. Many felt the power of God and bore a decided testimony to the truth of the message.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 2)
From Melrose we went to the camp-meeting at Middletown, where our first paper, under the name of Present Truth, was first published. I was strengthened to speak to the people on Sabbath and Sunday. A large number of people not of our faith were present and listened attentively. This was an important meeting, and I know that the Lord gave me His Holy Spirit and helped me to speak. The other ministers present also bore a straight message, and much interest in regard to our faith was aroused.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 3)
I told those present at the meeting of the instruction God had given me regarding the way in which He had worked for His people by giving them the Melrose Sanitarium property for so reasonable a sum. The Lord certainly directed His people to that place. The sanitarium there is to act an important part in calling the attention of the people of Boston and the surrounding towns and villages to our people and the reasons of their faith. Decided evangelistic efforts are to be put forth in these places.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 4)
In one of the morning meetings I presented the light given me regarding the Melrose Sanitarium, that all prejudice against it might be cleared away from the minds of those who had been opposed to the removal of the sanitarium work from South Lancaster to Melrose. I spoke of the offer made to our brethren by rich people in South Lancaster to buy the sanitarium property there, and of their offer to give our brethren the sanitarium building if they would move it off the land. I spoke of the desirability of the Melrose property—four large buildings and forty acres of land, situated in the midst of a beautiful park—and the easy terms upon which it was secured. All the circumstances connected with this remarkable transaction, the sale of the South Lancaster property, the removal of the sanitarium building, and the purchase of the Melrose property, constitute an instructive lesson for our prayerful study.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 5)
Another building is greatly needed at Melrose, that suitable accommodations may be provided for the higher classes. And I appeal to you, Brother Collins, to help with your means in the erection of this building. Wealthy people come to the sanitarium and ask for a suite of rooms with a private bathroom. They have been accustomed to this convenience, and they are willing to pay for it. We need the money of these wealthy people, and they need the advantages of the sanitarium, and we must provide the accommodations that will make them willing to come.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 6)
In all my travels I have never seen a more beautiful place for a sanitarium than the Melrose property. It was secured by the providence of God, and the sanitarium there may do a great work in healing the sick and in teaching them the gospel of salvation. If the instruction that God has given is followed, there will be brought into the truth, through the instrumentality of this sanitarium, men and women who can engage in evangelistic work.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 7)
Brother Collins, those in charge of this institution need the help that you can give them now, just now. Time is passing. Put a portion of your means into this enterprise, and be assured that it is being used for the advancement of the work that God has appointed His people to do. I ask you to heed this call without delay. The Melrose Sanitarium must stand as a witness for the truth. There is aggressive work to be done. Agencies are to be set in operation that will counterwork the infidelity that is so rapidly increasing.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 8)
Please read the commission given by Christ to His disciples just before His ascension. While many professed Christians are bringing a reproach upon the cause of God and counterworking the work of Christ, we are to do all we possibly can to advance the work by consecrating our talents of means and influence to the Master’s service. We cannot afford to neglect our God-given opportunity to lay up treasure in heaven, by doing all in our power to place the truth before those who know it not. If the church would seek to understand the great work to be done, if every member would become surcharged with the power of the Holy Spirit, they would have an efficiency that Satan and his angels could not resist.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 9)
The people of God are to arise and shine. They are to enter into Christ’s joy by doing all they possibly can to save the souls perishing in sin. My brother, I entreat you to put your means into circulation in the work of soul-saving. Thus men and women will be converted who in their turn will convert others.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 10)
I leave these words with you, my dear brother, hoping and praying that you may gain precious victories in helping to advance the work of God. I thought you would have a special interest in the work of the Melrose Sanitarium, because it is so near you. I have confidence in Dr. Nicola and his wife. They are both doing a good work.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 11)
May God bless you, my brother. I hope soon to hear that you have acted your appointed part.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 12)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 341, 1904, 13)
Lt 343, 1904
Simpson, Brother and Sister [W. R.] “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 27, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in PC 3-5. + Dear Brother and Sister Simpson,—
I can now feel at rest in regard to the positions that you have been chosen to fill in the Glendale Sanitarium. Those bearing the chief responsibilities in that institution can be a great help to one another if they will seek to understand the Lord’s instruction. I have great hope that as you and Brother and Sister Burden fill your important places, you will realize the presence of a spiritual helper, One who is ever ready to be the head of your councils. I pray that you will feel His divine presence. Under His guidance, none of you need become discouraged.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 1)
I am sure that you will find Brother Ballenger a great help to your Board. He visits many places, and his influence will work for the upbuilding of the two Southern California Sanitariums.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 2)
The strength of the combination of workers in the Glendale Sanitarium depends on their souls’ being imbued with heavenly love. Christ clothed His divinity with humanity, that human beings might lay hold upon His merits, and that they might recognize obedience to God’s law as the virtue of the covenant of grace.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 3)
Worldly policy plans are not to be woven into the pattern that the Lord’s people have been given. To those who receive Him, Christ gives power to become the sons of God, even to as many as believe on His name. God declares, “I will put My laws in their minds.” David’s prayer expresses this same precious assurance: “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep His testimonies, and that seek Him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity, they walk in His way. Thou hast commanded me to keep Thy precepts diligently.... Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all Thy commandments. I will praise Thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned Thy righteous judgments.... Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to Thy word. With my whole heart have I sought Thee; O let me not wander from Thy commandments.” [Psalm 119:1-4, 6, 7, 9, 10.]
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 4)
Here is our strength. The Lord will just as surely lead the workers in the Glendale Sanitarium, as He led David, if they will unite to do His will.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 5)
There is a great work to be done in bringing the principles of health reform to the notice of the people. Public meetings should be held to introduce the subject, and schools should be held in which those who are interested can be told more particularly about our health foods and of how a wholesome, nourishing, appetizing diet can be provided without the use of meat, tea, or coffee.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 6)
Thus we did in the early history of our work. We taught the people by demonstration that we can safely depend for the sustenance of life upon the productions which God gave our first parents in Eden.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 7)
Let men engage in this work who can speak on the principles of health reform. You need not feel that you must depend upon Dr. Kellogg or upon any other man from afar. No, no. At the dedication of the Glendale Sanitarium, let your most intelligent speakers on the subject of health reform come to the front. And remember that God would have the workers in the two Southern California Sanitariums lean wholly upon His wisdom.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 8)
Make as much as possible of the dedicatory services to arouse an interest in health reform. Press home the temperance question with all the force of the Holy Spirit’s unction. Show the need of total abstinence from all intoxicating liquor. Show the terrible harm that is wrought in the human system by the use of tobacco and alcohol. Explain your methods of giving treatment. Let the talks given be such as will enlighten your hearers. God has mercy on the unrighteous. This service will be an opportunity to tell what health reform really is.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 9)
Such services will give the Sanitarium a publicity that will be a great help to it in its work. We must study Christ’s methods. He accepted invitations to feasts given by wealthy men. He went to these feasts because He knew that there He would have opportunity to present the truth. We must study how to reach the masses with the truth for this time. As we strive to do this, God will bring to the minds of those not of our faith convictions that cannot be turned aside with a joke. They will be convinced that we have the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 10)
Tell them of the principles that we hold, and of why we have established the Sanitarium, that, under the guidance of God, it may be a help in relieving suffering humanity. Tell them that medical missionary work is to prepare people for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those who are true and loyal to His commandments. Let it be understood that the love of God alone can keep His people true in the self-denial and self-sacrifice that they are called to endure for Christ’s sake. Repeat often the first three verses of the fourteenth chapter of John. This Scripture is a panacea for trouble, disappointment, and affliction. A conviction that the hope of eternal life is sure causes the heart to overflow with gratitude and thanksgiving.
(19LtMs, Lt 343, 1904, 11)
Lt 345, 1904
Rogers, F. R. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 27, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in SpTB #12 12-16. Dear Brother Rogers,—
Your letter was received and read some time ago. We rejoice with you for the precious tokens you have of the Lord’s blessing. Praise the Lord! Oh, let us be encouraged. Let our hearts be filled with thankfulness. Continue to work earnestly and interestedly, and have perfect trust in God. Do not doubt His goodness. When difficulties seem to surround you, remember the promise that the Father is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him than parents are to give good gifts to their children. If God will only let His blessing rest on the workers, everything will work out to His glory, and souls will be converted. The Lord will acknowledge and bless all who walk before Him in earnest, hopeful confidence. Look and live. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. He will draw near to each one who exercises faith and labors courageously to advance the work because this is what God directs.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 1)
I am glad that you are of good courage. Our hearts should always be filled with praise and rejoicing. Truth will triumph.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 2)
“And, behold, 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.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 3)
“He saith unto Him, Which? Jesus saith, 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.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 4)
“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, follow Me.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 5)
“But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Matthew 19:16-22.]
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 6)
This young ruler was a man of prepossessing appearance and of much outward piety. He had high capabilities, and he might have been a great blessing. But Christ saw in his character one great defect which, unless remedied, would mar his whole life. His possessions were his idol; unless they were given their proper place, they would rob him of eternal life. How kindly and tenderly the Saviour treated him. “If thou wilt be perfect, He said, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven.” [Verse 21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 7)
The young ruler’s errand to Christ was not a pretense. He fully desired to be as Christ was. He realized the importance of gaining the future eternal life. He was not ignorant of the service that man owes to God. He was fully convinced that there is a place of happiness prepared for all who in this life obey the commands of God. He realized that in order to gain a place in the abodes of bliss, he must work out a perfect character. He thought himself an honest applicant as to what he must do in order to gain eternal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 8)
He was attracted and charmed by Christ’s life and His manner of teaching, and he realized that to be able to live eternally with God in the world to come would be a wonderful reward.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 9)
When this young man asked what he should do that he might gain eternal life, Christ answered him plainly. When he asked, “What lack I yet?” He pointed out to him wherein he fell short. He failed when tested in regard to his worldly possessions. These were his idol. Distinctly and definitely Christ told him that his riches stood in the way of his gaining eternal life. “If thou wilt be perfect,” He said, “go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come, and follow Me.” [Verses 20, 21.]
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 10)
“And when he heard this, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Verse 22.] He wanted the heavenly treasure, but he wanted also the temporal advantages his riches would bring him. He desired eternal life; but he was not willing to make the sacrifice. To give up his earthly treasure, that was seen, for the heavenly treasure, that was unseen, was too great a risk. He refused the offer of eternal life and went away, and ever after the world was to receive his worship.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 11)
“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 than 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.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 12)
“Then answered Peter 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 in 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 eternal life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.” [Verses 23-30.]
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 13)
Christ gave His life to the work of soul-saving, making it possible for human beings to return to their loyalty and take their stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 14)
Brother and Sister Rogers, be of good courage. Remember that we are deeply interested in you and your work. We want to help you to be a help to those whom you are trying to educate. I am so glad that you are not discouraged. I am so glad, too, that the students appreciate your efforts in their behalf. I pray that there may be a large work done in Huntsville. I pray that all who shall visit the school farm may see by the united effort of students and teachers that the best kind of education is being given. I pray that the farm may tell its own story of thrift and painstaking effort, that those who gave this beautiful place to the work for the colored people may rejoice with you all.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 15)
Heavenly angels are watching that farm, desiring that it may be so worked by the students that the students themselves, under the direction of wise teachers, shall show that improvement in their characters which God desires to see.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 16)
I hope to visit the Huntsville school again some time, that I may see the result of the earnest, faithful efforts put forth on this, the Lord’s farm.
(19LtMs, Lt 345, 1904, 17)
Lt 347, 1904
Ballenger, E. S. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 27, 1904 Previously unpublished. + Dear Brother Ballenger,—
You will soon be ready to dedicate the Southern California Sanitariums. You asked whether it would be well to invite Dr. Kellogg to attend the dedication services. I answer, No, no, no. Why?—Because in the past he has embraced too much and has been too much depended upon. Overmuch credit has been given to him, so exalting him that he has nearly ruined his soul by exalting himself.
(19LtMs, Lt 347, 1904, 1)
The instruction given me by the Lord is that the sanitariums established in the future should not carry so large an impress of Dr. Kellogg. Again and again he has shown positive weakness, and he should not be exalted as one who can carry the responsibilities of the whole medical missionary work. This need not and should not be. The sanitariums to be established throughout the land need not the name of any one man to give them influence. Our medical missionary work is to be built upon the foundation of Jesus Christ. He is the great Medical Missionary. It is the truth of His Word that is our strength and efficiency—the power of God unto salvation. In the grace provided by His atonement we must now and forever trust for strength.
(19LtMs, Lt 347, 1904, 2)
The name of no man is to be our insignia. We have been distinctly instructed that the name of the one who in the past has stood as the leader of our medical missionary work is no longer to be made prominent; for he has made plans which if carried out would be of the greatest offense to God.
(19LtMs, Lt 347, 1904, 3)
In the dedication of the two Southern California Sanitariums, the name of no mortal man is to be introduced as giving them efficiency; for this would be displeasing to God. Men have had altogether too much honor bestowed upon them. The result of this has been seen in movements and plans of human invention, which are condemned by God.
(19LtMs, Lt 347, 1904, 4)
The cities of this country are to be entered by our medical missionaries; but God would be displeased were Dr. Kellogg’s name attached to these forward movements. The future forbids any such thing. One name alone is to be exalted by us—the name of Christ. He who bears this name has visited this earth. In heaven a voice was heard, saying, “Sacrifice and offering Thou wouldst not, but a body hast Thou prepared Me.”“Lo, I come, in the volume of the book it is written of Me, I delight to do Thy will, O My God, yea, Thy law is within My heart.” [Hebrews 10:5; Psalm 40:7, 8.] Who is it that thus declares His purpose of leaving the heavenly courts to come to a world all seared and marred with the curse. We search the Scriptures, and the answer is, “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called, Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 347, 1904, 5)
I have plain messages to bear. The name of the Lord must be exalted among His people. Go forward, Brother Ballenger, go forward, looking to no man that lives for your efficiency. Trust in the Lord. One thing is certain: We must lay hold of the help that the Lord has given us. We are not to trust in man, nor make flesh our arm.
(19LtMs, Lt 347, 1904, 6)
Lt 349, 1904
Crawford, Marion Stowell “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 29, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 249-254. Mrs. Marion Stowell Crawford My dear Sister,—
We are home again, and I am much pleased to be once more in my quiet retreat. For many months I have had no time to get rested. During the past year, we have only spent five months in our pleasant home. Since last April I have been travelling constantly and have spoken in public in a great many places. I have at times been greatly wearied, but when standing before the people, I have realized the keeping power of God. When I opened my lips to speak, the Holy Spirit would come upon me, and the Lord strengthened me as His witness. Everywhere I have gone, I have borne testimony that the truth which I now proclaim is the same that the Lord gave me after the passing of the time in 1844. We hold today the same unchangeable Bible truths that we held then, and these truths we are now to proclaim with greater assurance than at any previous period of our experience. We have the same message to repeat, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 1)
As I speak the words the Lord has given me to speak, the Holy Spirit bears witness to the truth. The Lord Jesus presides in our assemblies, and our hearts are filled with a yearning desire for the conversion of souls.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 2)
There is a great work to be done in our cities, many of which have as yet been scarcely touched. In Los Angeles a good work has been going forward. Elder W. W. Simpson has been holding meetings in a large tent pitched near the business part of the city. Thousands have come to hear him, and he has proclaimed the truth with power, beseeching sinners to be reconciled to God. As a result of these meetings, a large number have been baptized. These are from all denominations. Some of them were Catholics.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 3)
Elder Simpson explains the prophecies by the means of charts and makes it very plain that the end of all things is at hand. In some cases entire families have taken their stand to obey God, as in 1844. All are brought over the ground from the beginning, and many believe as the prophecies relating to the past, present, and future are explained. Jewelry which cost many hundreds of dollars has been given to Elder Simpson to be sold for the cause. There is no spirit of excitement in this movement. No fanaticism attends it. The truth takes hold of hearts; and men and women give their rings and bracelets although no call has been made for them to strip themselves of these idols. The work is earnest and quiet. The people take off their jewelry of their own freewill and bring it to Elder Simpson as an offering up of their idols.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 4)
Elder Simpson held meetings in Redlands and Riverside also, and a church was raised up in each of these places. Much interest was shown in the meetings, and souls were brought to a knowledge of the truth. But these two places have not received as much labor as Los Angeles, and more work needs to be done in them. Elder Simpson closed his second series of tent-meetings in Los Angeles when we were there a few weeks ago. But the people were not willing to let this teacher of the gospel leave them, and he received a petition signed by a great many, urging that he hold another series of meetings. The question as to whether he will do this is now under consideration. Meanwhile he must take a rest for a few weeks. The Lord will let light shine upon his path to show him what to do next.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 5)
The work that has been accomplished in Los Angeles by means of these tent-meetings is what we may expect to see done in many places. The work has certainly borne the divine credentials. In the reception of the truth, all are not exercised in the same way. In some cases the impression comes in the acknowledgement of their convictions and their determination to leave their sinful life. And they can speak and pray in social meetings. Then a more persuasive work is done in leading others to be reconciled to God. “His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.]
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 6)
The word of truth has made a deep impression upon minds, and a large number have taken their stand to obey the Lord’s requirements. The Holy Spirit has borne witness to the efforts put forth.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 7)
The great need now is personal labor with those who are newly converted. Wise men and women are needed to give counsel and encouragement and to hold Bible readings, confirming the faith of those who have recently taken their stand.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 8)
While in Southern California I spent three weeks at San Diego in the new sanitarium in Paradise Valley, which is soon to be opened for the reception of patients. The lack of water was the only thing against the use of this place for sanitarium purposes. I am glad to be able to tell you that an abundant supply of soft, pure water has been obtained. A well ninety-five feet deep has been dug on the lower part of the sanitarium land. When the workmen had gone down about eighty feet they found some water, and they went on digging through the clay to the gravel below. One morning Brother Palmer came to my room, his face full of joy, to tell me that a stream of water as big as his hand was running into the well. The next morning there was fourteen feet of water in the well.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 9)
We all rejoiced to know that an abundance of water was now a certainty. This well is a treasure of more value than gold or silver or precious stones.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 10)
After leaving San Diego, we spent several days at the Glendale Sanitarium, eight miles from Los Angeles. We found the house filled with painters, plumbers, and carpenters. Preparations for the opening of the building were being hastened forward.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 11)
I rejoice to think that these two sanitariums will soon be opened. I have felt a great burden for the advancement of sanitarium work in Southern California. I borrowed money to invest in the San Diego property, that it might be secured.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 12)
I would be glad to see a large work developed in Redlands. This is a most beautiful city, and additional efforts must be put forth there. Brother E. S. Ballenger lives there, and we spent several days with him and his wife at their home. I was able to speak to our people in Redlands on Sabbath morning. I spoke in the tasteful little church building that was built last spring, and as I stood in it, I was in anticipation making an addition to it. If Redlands is worked as it should be, a larger church building will be required. And I wish that a small sanitarium could be started there.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 13)
The dinner bell is ringing and I must go.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 14)
Later. I will now try to finish your letter. Willie visited your brother Oswald Stowell. I wanted very much to go with him, but was too sick to leave my room. On my way to Southern California, I did much public speaking, at one time speaking every day for four days in succession; I caught a severe cold and I was sick all the time I was in San Diego.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 15)
Sister Marian Davis’ death was felt very keenly by me. On our return from the East we found her very sick. About a week after our return she rallied, and for a few days we hoped for her recovery. But she failed very suddenly and died October 25. We had planned to go to Los Angeles the day before, but felt that we must remain at home a day longer. We were very glad that we had decided thus; for the next morning at seven o’clock Marian lost consciousness, and she passed away at half-past four that day. She was buried in the St. Helena cemetery. On Friday morning we left home for Southern California. On the way down I caught a severe cold, from which I have not yet recovered.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 16)
In closing I wish to ask you if you can lend me the thousand dollars for which I asked you several months ago. I will give you six percent interest. I am in great need of money to help in getting out Ministry of Healing. If you can do me this favor, let me know as soon as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 17)
Your sister.
(19LtMs, Lt 349, 1904, 18)
Lt 351, 1904
Conference Officers “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 1904 This letter is published in entirety in PH160 1-4. To conference officers Dear Brethren,—
The question has been asked, Should the Southern Watchman occupy territory outside of the Southern States? One night I seemed to be in a meeting where this question was being discussed. Some argued that it would not be wise for an effort to be made to push the circulation of the Watchman in all parts of the field. They said that the Review and Herald and the Signs of the Times should be given the right of way, and that the Southern Watchman should not be allowed to interfere with the circulation of these two papers which have been so long in the field. They thought that our work with the Watchman should be confined to the Southern States.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 1)
Some were greatly astonished at these propositions. One of authority arose and said, The Lord God of Israel sees the selfishness of the human heart. Let those who are interested in our two older papers beware of allowing selfish plans to find a place in their work. The Southern Watchman is to have a place in the field at large. It bears a message of truth as verily as do the Review and the Signs of the Times. You are to be careful not to hinder the Watchman in its work.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 2)
Much more liberality must be shown toward the Southern field. This field needs workers and means, and those who show selfishness in their dealings with it greatly displease the Lord. God is dishonored by the indifference shown by many regarding the needs of this field. The destitution of men and means in the Southern field need not and should not exist.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 3)
Money intended for this field must not be diverted into other channels. The workers in the South must not be allowed to struggle on as they have done, in destitution and discouragement. God is displeased at this showing. Let this order of things be changed. The Lord’s eye is over all his work and over the workers in all parts of the world.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 4)
Let those who have had success in the circulation of the Signs and the Review remember that the Watchman also has a work to do. It will accomplish much good if it is given an opportunity to do its appointed work in all parts of the world. Its field is wherever subscribers can be found for it.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 5)
Let those who contribute to the Southern Watchman do their best. And let the editors of the Review, the Signs, and the Watchman remember that long articles hurt their papers. Let the articles be short, and let them be full of moisture and nourishment.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 6)
Elder Haskell and Elder Butler should be respected and encouraged. These men should not be cast down. They have had a precious experience, and if they will let the simplicity of Christ dwell in their hearts, they will see the salvation of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 7)
God calls upon His people to cleanse themselves from all selfishness. Let the workers in the Southern field arouse and put on strength. Let them be encouraged by their brethren in more favored fields. The South has had but little of the determined effort and liberal assistance that it ought to have had. From this time on let the work be advanced as fast as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 351, 1904, 8)
Lt 353, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. Washington, D. C. July 29, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dr. J. H. Kellogg,—
Those who are associated with you and those who have been your fellow laborers in the past do not realize how far you have gone in rebellion and in the art of deception. For years you have been departing from the path of rectitude. When you have been brought into a difficult position, you have adopted schemes and plans to meet the difficulties, and often unfair methods have been resorted to. The adoption of unfair and deceptive plans and methods has opened the way for the tempter to mislead and deceive you more and more and lead you on to other unfair actions. If you continue to carry on deception and intrigue, it will not be long before the word will be spoken, “Thus far shalt thou go, and no farther.” By the deceptive course you are following, you are blinding the spiritual eyesight of your associate physicians. So long have you done this that you do not discern it; for it has become a part of your character.
(19LtMs, Lt 353, 1904, 1)
Lt 355, 1904
Ashley, Brother Melrose, Massachusetts August 4, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in HP 104. Dear Brother Ashley,—
Your case has been presented to me a second time. The enemy fastened a yoke upon you which you have felt helpless to break. The Lord has not placed this yoke upon your neck. Long ago you made some mistakes which were pointed out to you. But never, never has the Lord withdrawn His Spirit from you.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 1)
I have much that I would be glad to say to you, but I dare not overtax my strength. Yesterday I had a very ill turn, but I tried to talk with Gilbert Collins. I wish he could have remained to the camp-meeting. I hope that he will return and that you will come with him. I have many things to say to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 2)
We do not enter heaven as a reward of merit, but as the gift of God. You have not yielded up your belief in the truth. Should persecution come upon you, you would hold fast to the evidence of your past experience. You believe in the truth, you believe in God, you believe in Christ, whom God has sent. Your faith in the Word, your faith in the experience that you have gained in accordance with that Word, is of more value to you than you can compute. Great pains should be taken to preserve it; for it is more precious than gold or silver.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 3)
Cast your helpless soul upon Christ. You have been bought with a price. You have not rejected Christ, but you have rejected yourself. You have no right to place yourself where you are—in the cell of unbelief. You must not allow the enemy to keep you locked up in the chamber of despair. God has not placed you there. He has not ceased to call you His son. Satan has kept your mind bound by unbelief, but you must break this unbelief. Just say, “Dear Lord, I give myself to Thee: ‘tis all that I can do.” Break the spell that has kept you from believing that you are a child of God. I am instructed to say to you, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] The Lord says, “Tell My unbelieving child that My arm is not shortened, that it cannot save, neither is My ear heavy, that it cannot hear.” [See Isaiah 59:1.] Trust in the One who is waiting to save you, who will save you if you will come to Him just as you are.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 4)
Remember that the exercise of faith is the one means of preserving it. Should you sit always in one position, without moving, your muscles would become strengthless, and your limbs would lose the power of motion. The same is true in regard to your religious experience. You must have faith in the promises of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 5)
The Lord is your strength and your helper. In your own strength you cannot break the spell that is upon you, but I tell you that Christ’s hand is stretched out to help you. Grasp the hand of your Deliverer, and hold it firmly. Believe that the Lord is speaking to you through Sister White. With a stern, determined will, advocate the great and sacred doctrines of the Bible, because you believe them to be truth. The precepts and promises of the Word of God are for you. Lay hold upon them, and your spiritual strength will increase. Arouse your slumbering faith, and walk out into the presence of God through the imparted power of Christ. As you exercise the faith that you have, you will receive greater faith that Christ has pledged Himself to save all who come to Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 6)
Heaven is for you, if you will put on the gospel shoes and walk with Christ. May the Lord help you to do this, my brother. Jesus is calling you, through His servant, to put on the whole armor of God. The righteousness of Christ by faith—this is your power. Faith is the shield by which you can ward off the fiery darts of the enemy. If you do not exercise faith, trusting in Christ, you will not succeed in the work of overcoming. God has a work for you to do. He wants you to help other souls to come to the light. Have faith that Christ will help you to overcome the temptations of the enemy.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 7)
The Lord would have you unite with Him. He will hear your prayers. He will give you hope and courage and zeal and love and goodness. He has been waiting these many years for you to trust yourself in His hands. Faith will perfect itself in exercise and activity.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 8)
I leave these words with you. Will you not come out of your cell and walk in the light as Christ is in the light? Then you will sing the praises of God and glorify His holy name.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 9)
I wish you to be sure to attend the camp-meeting that is soon to be held at Middletown, Connecticut. Do not disappoint me. If you will come to this meeting, you will, by seeking to please the Lord Jesus, be doing much to please Sister White.
(19LtMs, Lt 355, 1904, 10)
Lt 357, 1904
White, J. E. Washington, D. C. August 8, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 133-135. Dear son Edson,—
It is nearly dark, but I will try to write you a few lines. I have tried to obtain money from one source and another, but have not yet succeeded. There are still some persons whom I wish to ask. I shall certainly obtain money for you if I can. If none comes, you may know that it is because I have been unable to secure it. I am myself in great need of money, but I do not want you to be financially embarrassed.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 1)
I must read your last letter again. Is it so that you have secured the house you so much desired? If we trust fully in the Lord, He will bring to pass that which is in accordance with His will. We should have many more rich blessings if we would walk constantly in a spirit of tenderness and forbearance and love. If we keep our hands uplifted to heaven, the Lord will surely strengthen our faith.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 2)
I have been quite feeble of late. I have done much writing in regard to where we must stand as a people.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 3)
Brother Magan and Brother Sutherland spent a few days with us last week. In the past they have not seen all things correctly. The matter has been a severe trial to me, but I believe that now they view things correctly, and that they will not be deceived by Dr. Kellogg.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 4)
The work here is progressing very favorably. I have had several conversations with Brother Baird who has charge of the work on the buildings. He says that he has never dealt with such an excellent company of workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 5)
Every morning these workers meet in the large room below mine for worship. A hymn is sung and one or two prayers offered, and then I, or some other person of experience, talk to them for a little while. I think these morning meetings are a help to the boys.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 6)
I have not spoken often to the public since my return from Nashville. I have been so weak that the brethren dared not give out appointments for me. A week ago last Sabbath I spoke in the colored church. There was an excellent congregation. I had freedom in speaking, but for some reason the effort taxed me severely.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 7)
Last Sunday an all-day grove meeting was held on the school grounds. The weather was beautiful, and about two hundred and forty people came. In the morning Brother Bland, Brethren Sutherland and Magan, Willie, and Brother Thompson spoke. I had been sick, and it was feared that I could not speak. But the appointment was given out, and in the afternoon, with fear and trembling, I took my stand before the people. The Lord gave me tongue and utterance, and I spoke for an hour. Oh, I was so glad that I could speak to the people on this occasion. Quite a number of those not of our faith were present, and their interested faces showed their pleasure and satisfaction.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 8)
A few days ago Sister Hall, Sara, and I went for a long drive to Rock Creek Park. This is a most beautiful place. I have seldom driven over finer roads. This is a national park. Here the president takes his rides. The drives are equal to, yes, more than equal to anything that I saw in Denmark or Switzerland. On our drive we met the President. He bowed to us as we passed him.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 9)
I hope sometime to visit Washington when I am not worn out with intense anxiety regarding the condition of the churches and the attitude of Dr. Kellogg. The thought that the doctor is so strongly influencing the physicians associated with him has bowed me to the ground and almost killed me. I thought of the warnings that Christ has given us, and it seemed more than I could bear for any of our physicians or ministers to be seduced from the truth. I hope soon to be able to say that the spell is broken and that some precious souls can say, “My soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowler; the snare is broken, and we are escaped.” [Psalm 124:7.]
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 10)
Oh, it has been hard for me to bear this burden. Often I have had but a few hours’ sleep a night. I have written early and late, as fast as my hand could move over the paper. While writing, I have had wonderfully clear, ennobling conceptions of the love and goodness of God. We must never forget that it is our duty to express at all times and in all places our appreciation of the all-comprehending goodness of God. We are to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God who is working in us, to will and to do of His good pleasure. Heaven is our inheritance, and we are to receive the free gift as heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. In all that we do or say, we are to honor our Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 11)
We are not to talk of the mistakes of others; for we may do them an injustice. It may be our duty to reprove wrong, but this is to be done with all longsuffering. Self is to be kept out of sight. The voice is to be softened and subdued by the Holy Spirit’s influence. We are to be the Lord’s messengers, winning souls to Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 12)
My son, do not allow your mind to dwell so much on the course of those who have robbed the Southern field by diverting means into other channels. These men have done some selfish acts, but it is God who must give them a sense of their wrongdoing. It will not increase your influence for good for you to talk to them of restitution. Do not do this, Edson. Let God handle this matter.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 13)
Your mother.
(19LtMs, Lt 357, 1904, 14)
Lt 359, 1904
Foss, Mary Philadelphia, Pennsylvania August 10, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 165. My dear Sister Mary,—
For several months I and some of my workers—Willie, Sara, Clarence Crisler, Dores Robinson, and Maggie Hare—have been living in Takoma Park, a beautiful place five miles from Washington. We came East to spend some time in counsel with those in charge of the work here in regard to the buildings now in process of erection.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 1)
The work is being carried on by a large number of young men under the charge of an experienced architect. Every one employed appreciates the advantages given him. The work is planned so as to make it an education for the boys. Some are being taught how to draft plans for buildings; others are learning how to lay the foundation thoroughly and well.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 2)
Mr. Baird, the one who has charge of the work, has a most valuable fund of knowledge. Once or twice he and Willie have taken me over the buildings that are going up, explaining the construction.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 3)
Every morning the boys assemble in the large room just below mine for morning worship. A hymn is sung and prayer offered. A short talk is given, another hymn sung, and then the boys go to their breakfast in the boarding house just across the road.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 4)
Last Sunday an all-day grove meeting was held on the school grounds. In a shady spot planks were arranged as seats, and during the morning several talks were given by leading men among us. There were about two hundred and forty people present. The appointment had been given out that I would speak in the afternoon. I have been very weak since returning from the South, and I was afraid that I would not be able to fill the appointment. But I resolved to make the attempt and in fear and trembling took my stand before the people. The Lord gave me tongue and utterance, and I spoke for an hour. The interested faces before me were sufficient evidence that I was in the way of duty.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 5)
This afternoon I go to Philadelphia and shall stay two or three days at our sanitarium there. I shall speak in the tent there on Sabbath and Sunday; and on Monday, if I can get away so soon, we shall go to Melrose, five miles from Boston. We have a sanitarium at Melrose, and I shall stay there for two weeks to take treatment.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 6)
Then, if I am stronger, I shall make a most determined effort to go to Portland to speak there. I shall hope to see you then. But I cannot promise definitely that I shall do this, so you must not be disappointed if I do not come. Everything depends on how I feel after spending a week or two at Melrose. I shall try to rest while I am there. I shall do nothing special, but shall take treatment and shall ride out all that I can.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 7)
I have been losing strength ever since I left home, three months ago; and if I find that I continue to grow weaker, I shall go straight home.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 8)
I am anxious to get home on account of my book work. Marian is now working on the Ministry of Healing. I left her at home with a young girl to do the copying for her. But Marian misses me greatly when I am away. She needs my counsel and suggestions, and it is only right that she should have my help. She is now at the St. Helena Sanitarium, sick. She may get better when we are all together again. But I fear that if we are separated from her much longer, it will be at the cost of her life.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 9)
I must stop now. I shall try to see you if I possibly can before returning to California.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 10)
With much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 359, 1904, 11)
Lt 361, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. Melrose, Massachusetts August 25, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 11MR 318. Dr. J. H. Kellogg Dear Brother,—
This morning I received a letter from you. I would encourage you in the efforts that you are making to press into the light. We pray for you, that you will work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. I would not say one word to destroy hope. I know that the enemy will work diligently to dishearten right effort.
(19LtMs, Lt 361, 1904, 1)
I have been much discouraged by the result of the Berrien Springs meeting. Angels of heaven were working there to bring altogether different results. But their efforts were defeated. This has nearly cost me my life. I am weak and much reduced. The doctors here wish me to take treatment, but this enfeebles me, and I have decided not to take very much.
(19LtMs, Lt 361, 1904, 2)
I have two or three letters written to you. They were written before yours came. When I am able, I will finish them and send them to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 361, 1904, 3)
If you will take your position decidedly for the right, the Holy Spirit will help you. The great longing of my soul has been that you would come to the light. If you will do thorough work, if you will break from Satan’s snare, and show that repentance which is begotten by the Holy Spirit, the Lord will be glorified in you.
(19LtMs, Lt 361, 1904, 4)
I have hoped, I have prayed that you would take your stand firmly for the right. Work, O work earnestly in pressing to the light.
(19LtMs, Lt 361, 1904, 5)
I cannot write any more today; for I am very weary. I will write again when I am rested.
(19LtMs, Lt 361, 1904, 6)
Lt 363, 1904
White, J. E. College View, Nebraska September 15, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in UL 272. My dear son Edson,—
We reached Omaha September 9, Friday, and on Sabbath I spoke in the tent. When I entered the tent, I was surprised to see, before me and on either side, a sea of faces. I had taken a cold, and there were a few who thought that they could not hear distinctly every word I spoke. I spoke with freedom, and all seemed deeply interested.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 1)
On Sunday I spoke from the first three chapters of Revelation. The words given to the disciple John by the great Teacher to send to the churches are of the most importance. Why, then, do not our people show a more decided interest in the instruction contained in the book of Revelation. In the day of final judgment, a heavy charge will be brought against those who have not appreciated the messages of warning and hope given in this book.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 2)
What a work there is before us. Who comprehends it? Christ would have all understand that the end of all things is at hand, that the solemn scenes of the final judgment are soon to take place. In that great day, those whose characters the Judge of all the earth can vindicate will stand before the world glorified and honored. On this earth they manifested forth the light and glory of God, and He now rewards them according to their works.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 3)
The whole world will then receive sentence. Of all the question will be asked, “Have you diligently studied the Word of God, that you might know the will of God, that you might be enabled to understand the difference between sin and righteousness?” Sad will be the fate of those who would not come to Christ that they might be cleansed from all unrighteousness. Then sinners see the character of God as it is. And they see, too, the sinfulness of the sins that have drawn souls away from Christ and placed them under the banner of rebellion, to war against Him who gave His life for them.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 4)
Because Christ was one with the Father, equal with Him, He could make an atonement for transgression and save man, not in his sins, but from his sins. Those who have despised His grace will see what they have lost by treating with contempt the One who humbled Himself to stand at the head of humanity. They hear the words of condemnation, “Depart from Me. By your example you have caused many to err. You have led them away from the commandments in obedience to which they would have found eternal life.”
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 5)
Far different are the words spoken to God’s faithful ones. “Come ye blessed of My Father,” Christ says, “inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” [Matthew 25:34.] Then from the host of the redeemed there rises the triumphant chorus, “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory.” [1 Corinthians 15:55.]
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 6)
O that our minds could comprehend the greatness of the theme and the wonderful importance of the occasion.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 7)
“Whosoever ... believeth in Me shall never die.”“If a man keep My sayings, he shall never see death.” [John 11:26; 8:51.] God’s chosen ones may fall at their post of duty, but they have only fallen asleep, to rest till Jesus awakes them to share with Him an eternal weight of glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 8)
“Whosoever 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 that 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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 9)
“This spake He of the Spirit, which they that believe in Him should receive.” [John 7:39.] By the agency of His [Spirit], Christ works out in His people in the present life a continual moral reviving, which is a progression of holiness.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 10)
“Verily I say unto you, The hour is coming and now is when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God; and they that hear shall live.” [John 5:25.] They are aroused from the slumber of sin and brought into newness of life. They accept the garment of Christ’s righteousness and show to the world a life changed and transfigured by His transforming grace. They hunger to be partakers of the divine nature. They break away from the bondage of sin. They submit to be trained for service for every duty His service requires. Their hearts pant after God. They long to enjoy the life-giving power that He alone can impart. The consciousness that they are wearing Christ’s yoke, and learning of Him His meekness and lowliness, surrounds them with an atmosphere of peace. They realize that the yoke of Christ is indeed easy and His burden light. To be made partakers of that which they know is a divine principle is to them a pledge of resurrection to eternal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 11)
“As I live, so ye shall live also.” [John 14:19.] They are a part of His own life. “As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me.” [John 6:57.]
(19LtMs, Lt 363, 1904, 12)
Lt 365, 1904
Davis, Marian College View, Nebraska September 16, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in TDG 268; 9MR 270. Dear Sister Marian,—
I keep your case before me, and I am grieved that you are troubled in mind. I would comfort you if it were in my power. Has not Jesus, the precious Saviour, been to you so many times a present help in times of need? Do not grieve the Holy Spirit, but cease worrying. This is what you have many times talked to others. Let the words of those who are not sick, as you are, comfort you, and may the Lord help you, is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 1)
If it is the Lord’s will that you should die, you should feel that it is your privilege to commit your whole being, body, soul, and spirit, into the hands of a just and merciful God. He has no such feelings of condemnation as you imagine. I want you to stop thinking that the Lord does not love you. Cast yourself unreservedly upon the merciful provisions that He has made. He is waiting for you to heed His invitation. He will help you if you realize your weakness.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 2)
I am so sorry that you do not trust in Him who is your only hope. No one can help you now but Jesus Christ. Say, “I will cast my helpless self upon the Saviour’s arms.” Come to Him just as you are. You need not think that you have done anything which would lead God to treat you with severity. I know better. Just believe in His love, and take Him at His word. Do not worry about the book. Just cast away your unbelief, and be healed of that evil.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 3)
It is nearly daybreak. I have been praying for you and writing out some things for the present meeting. I have spoken once since coming here. I took cold through change of weather, but am improving. This is a large meeting and a very important one. I wish to act my part. May the Lord help me. He is my hope, my crown of rejoicing.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 4)
At the close of this meeting, I shall go to Battle Creek to spend a week or two. After that we shall turn our faces homeward. I shall spend a few days at Los Angeles and at San Diego.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 5)
Marian, may the Lord strengthen and restore you, is my prayer. Oh, I am so sorry that you are sick. But do not lose self-control. You have a very strong will. Exercise that will in preserving your self-control. You will, won’t you?
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 6)
My dear sister, you have handled these subjects so often. Just appropriate them to yourself, and receive the consolation that it is your privilege to have. Look away from your poor, miserable self to Jesus. He is the beauty of holiness. He wants you to submit yourself, as a little child, to Him. You have prepared many things that God has given me for others. I entreat you to be encouraged by the thought that you have been permitted to help me in my work for so many years. Let this thought comfort you. I entreat you to look away from yourself to the Lord Jesus, and in simplicity trust your Redeemer.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 7)
Submit to that which Sister Nelson and your sister may wish you to do. Be peaceful in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is too wise to err and too good to do you harm. Be hopeful in God. Do not think of trying to do anything on the writings.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 8)
May the Lord help you, is my prayer. He would have you believe and act out your faith. Christ has given us in His life an illustration of the amiability of character that He would have us all possess. He clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this world to dwell among us. We are to recognize His every word and deed as a manifestation of God’s love.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 9)
Our Saviour is the great Medical Missionary. His is a tender, sympathetic ministry. In this ministry the largest possible measure of consolation and joy has been revealed.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 10)
No suspicion or distrust is to take possession of our minds. No apprehension of the greatness of God is to confuse our faith. May God help us to humble ourselves in meekness and lowliness. Christ laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown, that He might associate with humanity and show that human beings may be perfect. Clad in the garments of mercy, He lived in our world a perfect life to give us evidence of His love. He has done that which should make unbelief in Him impossible. From His high command in the heavenly courts, He stooped to take human nature upon Him. His life is an example of what our lives may be. That apprehension of God’s greatness should come in to efface our belief in God’s love, Christ became a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. The human heart, given up to Him, will become a sacred harp, sending forth sacred music.
(19LtMs, Lt 365, 1904, 11)
Lt 366, 1904
Davis, Marian Melrose, Massachusetts August 29, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 269-270. Dear Sister Marian Davis,—
I have been unable to sleep after two o’clock this morning, so have been writing.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 1)
I wish I could be at home, but I have been so weak that it has seemed best for me to go but a short distance at one time. I am now taking rest and treatment at the sanitarium, but as soon as possible I will start on the homeward journey.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 2)
I desired to visit my sister who lives in Maine; for I knew that if I should not see her now, I probably would not see her again. May Walling came from New York to see me, and she has been to Maine and returned with my sister. So she has been visiting me for a few days. She has a room at the sanitarium. Though she is eight-five years old, her mental faculties are still clear, and she enjoys better health than I do.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 3)
Sara has not been feeling very well and has been resting for a few days.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 4)
The camp-meeting is held a little over a mile from the sanitarium. I have spoken there three times and expect to speak again tomorrow. I thank God for His power and blessing. Yesterday I bore a very plain testimony. Many have expressed surprise that my voice is still so clear and strong.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 5)
I expect to attend the Connecticut camp-meeting, which is to be held at Middletown. This is not far from here. After spending a few days there I have an appointment at College View, and then, if able to travel, we will start for home.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 6)
I have had a difficult time since I have been away from home. Sometimes I have been unable to relish my food—everything seemed to taste so flat, but I think this was owing to my own condition of health. I am now, however, able to relish my food, and I take my meals regularly, for I know that I must eat in order to keep up my strength. One thing which has seemed unusual for me is that I sometimes become weary while riding.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 7)
Marian, I am praying for you that the Lord will spare your life that you may remain with me. I hope we may not be separated again. Do not refuse to eat nourishing food. It is not the will of God that you should starve yourself. Eat regularly that you may gain in strength. Do all that you can to aid in your recovery, and may the Lord comfort your soul. In Him is strength. Look unto Jesus, the Author and the Finisher of your faith. If you continue to look to Him, you will be made like Him in character. I very much wish that I could be there to help you; but as this is impossible, I must be reconciled to what I cannot prevent.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 8)
Be of good courage in the Lord. Jesus has compassion on you. You have done a noble work in helping me with my books, and the Lord will accept your lifework. I am so glad that these books are being so widely scattered. You and I know how precious they are.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 9)
You must not worry about the book Ministry of Healing. Ride out every day, if possible. You must take a rest for a time. Have courage and faith and hope in the Lord. Trust in Him. He is the light of your countenance and your God.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 10)
I must now go to visit my sister. May God bless and comfort you, my child.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 11)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 366, 1904, 12)
Lt 367, 1904
Simpson, W. W. College View, Nebraska September 18, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 9MR 13-17. Dear Brother Simpson,—
I have words of caution to give you, which I am repeating to you in the night season. I was saying this: “I have a message for you from the Lord. Cultivate your vocal organs. This is your privilege and duty. The voice is a most precious treasure. You often speak too hurriedly. Words are crowded too quickly upon words, and your utterance lacks the clear distinctness that it should have.”
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 1)
Speaking to large congregations as you do, it is your duty to give your vocal organs all the relief possible. When speaking, take deep, full inspirations of air. Use the muscles of the abdomen, and thus put upon them the burden you are now placing upon the throat and lungs.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 2)
The Lord would not have you injure your vocal organs by a long, continuous strain. Your words will be much more forcible if you give your lungs more air and speak fewer words. When you are speaking, you need to give time to taking full, deep inspirations. Bring the muscles of the abdomen into action. Stand straight, breathe deep, and speak your words with as much force as you please.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 3)
I was taught this lesson when my throat and lungs were so much affected that I could not breathe without suffering. No human friend gave me any hint of what to do in order to improve, but the great Medical Missionary, whom I love and obey, told me what to do. The directions given me, I give you. The importance of voice culture was impressed upon me, and ever since I have tried to impress this upon others. Let our ministers speak slowly, taking in full inspirations of air, and there will be a melody in their voices that is now heard in the voices of but few, because it is hard to change wrong habits for right ones.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 4)
God would have His workers treat their vocal organs with special care as a precious gift from Him. These organs are not to be abused by overtaxation. Let great care be shown in their use. Then the discourses given will be more impressive, and those who speak will be enabled to do more work for the Master. There are men who have gone down to the grave because they did not take pains to be in harmony with nature’s laws in their use of the vocal organs.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 5)
The Lord would have His messengers guard sacredly their health and strength. They are not to sacrifice their God-given organs by misusing them. One organ is not to be overstrained, made to bear a burden of abuse that will bring disease and cut short the usefulness of the worker.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 6)
The Lord would have you improve in speech by placing the burden where it belongs, upon the muscles of the chest and abdomen. The throat is only the channel for the words. Speak slowly, and breathe deeply. This will enable you to throw out your words with distinctness and volume, while the throat and lungs, instead of being injured, will be strengthened to resist consumptive tendencies.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 7)
It is your privilege to take lessons in voice culture, if possible. Voice culture is a study that should find a place in every institution for the education of the youth. Especially is this study essential for those who are preparing themselves to labor as teachers or ministers. In every study the importance of speaking slowly and distinctly, and of placing the burden upon the muscles of the abdomen, should be made prominent. This line of work should be made a specialty in every school. The students should be taught to stand straight, to breathe deep, and to give the proper emphasis to important words and sentences.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 8)
I am deeply interested in your work in Southern California. I am so anxious that you shall not break down under the strain of long, continuous effort. Let some one connect with you who can share your burdens. This is the plan that was followed by the Great Teacher. He sent His disciples out two and two.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 9)
Think of these suggestions. Give them due attention; for the preservation of your life demands this. The human agent is to do all in his power to preserve his health and strength. The minister of the gospel should give the organs of speech special care, giving the throat every advantage, so that it shall not become irritated. He must take time to rest. Then his vocal organs will not be so overworked that they will become diseased beyond remedy.
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 10)
I must urge you to exercise discretion. You talk hurriedly, and the throat and lungs become wearied and irritated. Elder Sperry was a man of great ability. I did my best to persuade him to be careful of his health, but he would not follow my advice. He said that he could not enjoy freedom in speaking if he kept the rules which he knew to be essential to the health of his vocal organs. The force of habit was so strong that he did not change. When he was dying, he sent for my husband and me to come and pray for him. While we were with him, he said, “O Sister White, I need not now be dying had I heeded the warnings that you gave me.”
(19LtMs, Lt 367, 1904, 11)
Lt 368, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. [Melrose, Massachusetts] August 31, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in BCL 115-117. Dr. Kellogg Dear Brother,—
I have a most earnest desire that you shall stand on vantage ground.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 1)
Recently I have been unable to do much, but I have received special help from the great Healer. He has given me power as I have borne my testimony before the people. During my stay in Philadelphia, I spoke twice, once in each of the tents pitched in that city. The Lord gave me strength to address those assembled, and I praise His holy name.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 2)
Since coming to this place, I have spoken several times. A camp-meeting is in progress about a mile from the sanitarium, and on Sabbath and Sunday afternoons and during the week I spoke. The Lord gave me strength, and there was much of His spirit in the meeting. We leave Melrose before the meeting closes to attend a meeting in Connecticut. I shall be there for a few days only, as I am to attend a meeting in Omaha.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 3)
I learned this morning that on our way to Omaha we shall pass through Battle Creek, and since this is so, I thought that perhaps I could spend a day or two there. Could the church be gathered together sometime during the week? I should be glad to speak to them. I do not think I could stay over the Sabbath, for I have an appointment to speak at the Omaha meeting at that time.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 4)
I have tried to write to you before, but have been too weary after speaking. Be assured that I received your letter with thanksgiving. I know that the Spirit of the Lord has been grieved and His name dishonored. But if you will carry out the work of repentance that you have begun, I will do my best to help in every way possible. The Lord would be greatly dishonored were His people to follow a course that would lead the people of the world to think that we were divided into two parties. To keep up an internal warfare would please the enemy and greatly retard the work that the Lord would have done in our world.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 5)
I have said over and over again that there must be unity between the gospel ministry and the medical missionary work. If you and your associates draw off to do the work that you have been doing, I shall be compelled to publish the warnings that the Lord has been giving you for the past twenty years. The people in our conferences have not seen these warnings. But if this can be avoided by our blending together, much misinterpretation and misunderstanding will be saved. I have been charged that unless some change is made, I must publish these warnings to save the people of God from being led into strange and forbidden paths. I do not desire that this matter shall come before the world. By coming into line as you propose, you can save this.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 6)
All that can be done now is to come into line. We can but suppose that the evil seed that has been sown will bring forth tares. But if you will act your part in the fear of God and for the love of souls, the Lord can overrule the matter for good. We shall certainly be approved of God if we avoid giving the world a chapter that it would be better they should never see.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 7)
Will you not take your stand firmly upon the platform of eternal truth, living the truth before the world? Your associates will need to consider what course they should pursue. But you have your part to perform, as if there were not another person connected with you.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 8)
I ask you to study the prayer of Christ as recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John. I hope, my dear brother, that you will see this prayer in its true character. It is a lesson by which our course of action is to be guided. It contains the science that will stand the test of ages. It is an illustration of the intercession that will stand, that Christ is making, and to the end of the world will continue to make for those who believe in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 9)
The root of the sin that is in our world is an unbelief in Christ and an unwillingness to accept the truths that He came into our world to proclaim. Sin has made us aliens from God. The first step toward restoration is obedience to the words, “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] A belief in Christ as a personal Saviour is the only salvation provided for the sinner.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 10)
Christ died for us to make an atonement for our sins. He is now standing at His Father’s right hand, pleading for us. To all who receive Him, He will give power to become the sons of God. Had He not paid the redemption price for us, we could not be saved. But His intercessions prevail; He had power to take away our sins. He lives to make intercession; and because He lives, we shall live also if we are obedient to His will. He will keep us from falling.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 12)
“Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] Sanctification through the truth means unreserved surrender. In it there is increase, continuous and progressive, until grace is lost in glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 13)
To the church in Battle Creek I would say, There is a work to be done among you before you can be ready for the Lord’s appearing. Do not exalt yourselves and disparage others as you have done in the past. Let every soul confess and forsake his own sins. We are living in the great day of atonement. Make diligent work for repentance. Your souls are in peril, but by confession and repentance you can be cleansed from sin.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 14)
1 John 2. Study the instruction that Christ has given. Criticize yourselves. Set your own hearts in order, for you have not a moment to lose.
(19LtMs, Lt 368, 1904, 15)
Lt 369, 1904
Hayward, Brother; Hansen, Brother College View, Nebraska September 21, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 11MR 166-167. Dear Brethren Hayward and Hansen,—
I have received your letters, and there are some things that I wish to say in response. I wish to speak of some things presented before me concerning the establishment of the school and the sanitarium that are to be established near Nashville. Careful attention is to be given to the advantage that may be gained in locating these institutions near each other. In regard to the institutions to be established in Takoma Park, I was shown that the Lord would certainly be honored were these institutions placed near enough one another to be a help and a blessing to one another.
(19LtMs, Lt 369, 1904, 1)
The students who will attend the Nashville school will be helpful to the sanitarium, and the sanitarium will be a blessing to the school. Of course, circumstances must determine the arrangements that it will be best to make. The workers in each institution must help one another, and the blessing of the Lord will surely rest upon both institutions.
(19LtMs, Lt 369, 1904, 2)
This is the plan that it is proposed should be followed in Takoma Park, and the light given me is that this plan would work beneficially if applied to the institutions to be established near Nashville. If the school buildings and the sanitarium buildings are placed within reach of one another, a blessing will come to both institutions. If the sanitarium building is erected on part of the land that has been purchased for school purposes, each institution will be a help and an encouragement to the other.
(19LtMs, Lt 369, 1904, 3)
I wish you to consider these suggestions, brethren; for I regard it as the Lord’s plan. The teachers in the school can help the workers in the sanitarium by their advice and counsel and by sometimes speaking to the patients, and those who have charge of the sanitarium can return the compliment. In time a church building will be put up within access of these institutions, where all can meet together for the worship of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 369, 1904, 4)
On the school farm the patients will have abundance of room in which to roam about in the open air. The beauty of the scenery will attract them, and the truth will take hold upon their minds.
(19LtMs, Lt 369, 1904, 5)
Let these two lines of work be carried on in close proximity with each other, yet as far distant from each other as the judgment and wisdom of those in charge shall determine. One institution will give influence and strength to the other. Money will be saved; for both institutions can share the advantages that they will both need.
(19LtMs, Lt 369, 1904, 6)
I have written this in great haste and must now leave it with you, asking you to consider the suggestions made.
(19LtMs, Lt 369, 1904, 7)
Lt 371, 1904
Union Conference Presidents Refiled as Lt 243, 1904.
Lt 373, 1904
Fellow Workers Refiled as Lt 153, 1904.
Lt 377, 1904
Brethren Berrien Springs, Michigan May 21, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brethren,—
I was instructed that at this time and on this occasion it is not best to speak on the subject of pantheism or to read quotations from authors who write on this specious, deceptive error. The statements made in Testimony, volume 8, are sufficient to correct the error. These statements will do more to enlighten minds than all the theories or explanations that our ministers may put forth concerning this matter. Dwell on present truth, on Christ’s second coming. It is not the duty of our ministers to try to handle pantheism; for to do this, they must repeat the sophistry of Satan. Let this subject alone, and talk the truth. Fill hearts and minds with the solemn, sacred truth for this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 1)
I am warned that the less our ministers handle the subject of pantheism, the less they will help Satan to present his theories to the people. Let the truth for this time be kept before them. Never, never repeat the spiritualistic sentiments, the strange, misleading theories, which have for years been coming in.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 2)
The Lord has a message for our ministers to bear, but He does not call them to speak on the subjects upon which the minds of some have been dwelling. Those who do this place in minds seeds that will germinate and spring up to bear fruit. Thus people are educated to catch up the sentiments of Satan and give them publicity.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 3)
Give the people present truth. Talk the truth. Fill their minds with truth. Build up the strongholds of truth. Do not bring Satan’s theories to minds that should not hear in regard to them. Remember that the devil can be served by a repetition of the devil’s lies. What the people need is not a representation of the seductive arts of Satan, but a presentation of the truth as it is in Jesus. The less we handle these objectionable subjects, the purer, cleaner, and less tainted will be our minds and our principles.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 4)
The light given to Elder J. H. Waggoner was that, in handling over and repeating the arguments of opponents, he was putting into the minds of his hearers arguments that they would use against the truth. As objections to the truth are presented, Satan’s angels make impressions on the minds of those who hear.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 5)
I write this as a caution. In the meeting that we are holding, let pure, sacred, sanctifying truth be presented. Let these students who are attending this school feast on the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 6)
I was told to tell Elder Andrews and Elder Waggoner to present Bible truth. I was told to tell them that in their discourses they must not present the objections of their opponents. And I have been shown that we are not to have any controversy over these spiritualistic theories, because such controversy will only confuse minds. These things are not to be brought into our meetings. We are not to try to repudiate them. The more they are handled, the faster they will grow. Keep these subjects out of our papers. Let them alone. Let the doctrines of present truth be put into our papers, but give no room to a repeating of erroneous theories.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 7)
We are not to handle these erroneous theories. Those who try to handle them will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. It is not our work to voice Satan’s theories. Go steadily forward building up the old waste places and restoring the foundations of many generations. Present the truth, sacred, sanctifying truth. Let the seducing theories of the enemy alone. Give him no ground on which to plant the seeds of these theories. I was warned to enter into no controversy over these matters. Let not our ministers or teachers or students give their lips to the repeating of the enemy’s lies.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 8)
God has not given any minister the commission to unravel Satan’s theories by entering into controversy regarding them. Hold up the truth; magnify the truth—“It is written.” Our people do not appreciate as they should the saving power of the atonement. They do not understand as they should the meaning of the words, “Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.” [1 Corinthians 5:7.] Our ministers need not go over Satan’s false theories in order to save the people from error. Let them magnify the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 9)
The Lord is coming very soon. We have only a little while in which to present the truth for this time—the truth that is to convert souls. This truth is to be presented in the utmost simplicity, even as Christ presented it, so that the people can understand what is truth. Truth will dispel the clouds of error.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 10)
Let the repetition of Satan’s falsehoods be kept out of our papers. What we need in our papers is the gospel message that will save souls. “O Zion that bringeth good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain! O Jerusalem that bringeth good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength, lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God.” [Isaiah 40:9.]
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 11)
Keep your eyes fixed on the Lord Jesus Christ, and by beholding Him you will be changed into His likeness. Talk not of these spiritualistic theories. Let them find no place in your mind. Let our papers be kept free from everything of the kind. Publish the truth; do not publish error. Do not try to explain in regard to the personality of God. You cannot give any further explanation than the Bible has given. Human theories regarding Him are good for nothing. Do not soil your minds by studying the misleading theories of the enemy. Try to draw minds from everything of this character.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 12)
Let each one now inquire, How can I best live the truth as it is in Jesus. Heed His words, “Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Seek in some humble way to do service for the Saviour by helping others to obtain a clearer view of Him. Not all can make large offerings. Not all can do great works, magnificent deeds; but all can learn of Him His meekness and lowliness. All can control the desire to be first and can be filled with apostolic zeal. The meekness and lowliness of Christ, revealed in your life, will bring you into places where you can do service for Christ. The unselfish act, the warmth of a kindly spirit will do its work, resting agitated souls and bringing assurance and peace and hope.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 13)
The Lord needs laborers who can minister in kindness. Some can bring pounds to the Lord’s treasury; others can bring only mites; but every gift brought in sincerity is accepted by the Lord. He loves a cheerful giver. To every man is given his work. Some have a lowly service; others can speak with power on Bible subjects. But let no one despise the lowly service. Every one who keeps in touch with Christ can speak a word in season.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 14)
What are our church members doing to draw souls to Christ. Are they honoring the Lord with their substance? We have a work to do to prepare the highways and hedges for our God. We are to improve every opportunity to speak a word for Jesus, to comfort tried, tempted souls with the promises of His Word. Those who do this are doing a good and precious work. They are bringing others to the light.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 15)
Remember that we are the Lord’s heralds, His ambassadors. It is Christ who stands beside His messengers. “Go ye therefore and teach all nations,” He said to His disciples, “baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things which I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:19, 20.]
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 16)
The more we dwell upon the lessons Christ has given us in His Word, the better prepared we shall be to see and understand the ministry required of us in presenting truth. God employs human instrumentalities to speak His words, not the words of the enemy. Never, never, by putting the messages of Satan in our papers, send them to thousands. We are to teach the things that Christ has commanded. We are to work for high and low, rich and poor. Never deem any one beyond the saving power of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 17)
We are never to go on a warfare on our own charges. In sending forth His disciples on their first missionary journey, Christ said to them, “Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not; but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” [Matthew 10:5, 6.] Why were these directions given? Jewish prejudice against the Gentiles was so strong that had the disciples gone then to the Gentiles their work would have been greatly hindered.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 18)
“And as you 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 7, 8.]
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 19)
We thank God that there is something for all to do. If each will do his appointed work, learning of Christ in all humility, fruit will be borne to the Master’s glory. All who place themselves in right relation to God—as members of His family doing His service, as the result of the light given them and their acquaintance with the truth—will be richly blessed. It is those who reveal their faith by their works who accomplish good. They have the faith that works by love and purifies the soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 20)
God is testing us by blessings bestowed and blessings removed. Shall we learn the lesson He would teach us? Will we bear His test and proving? God has worked for His people by His Holy Spirit. By the bestowal of wonderful blessings He has striven to awaken in them a desire to impart the light entrusted to them. “I have come to you in love,” He says. “I have come to you in mercy and in judgment; yet you would not learn the lesson I sought to teach.”“Ye would none of My counsel, ye despised all My reproofs. My Spirit has been grieved by your failure to respond to My love.” To those who claim to be His servants and yet depart from His way, He says, “If thou art destroyed, it is thyself who art responsible.”“Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.]
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 21)
Who will at this time make most earnest decisions to be wholly for the Lord God of Israel? Shall the Lord again cause the idols of your choice—beautiful buildings—to be consumed by fire? Shall the reason be taken away because the God-given powers of the mind have been exercised in strange devising? By their unsanctified projects men have burdened themselves and retarded the progress of the cause of God till it is years behind where it should be. Our cities are still unwarned. “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how often would I have gathered thee as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, but ye would not.” [Matthew 23:37.] Satan prepares the way for the doing of many things that God has not commanded. If all had used their powers to the glory of God, the knowledge of the truth would have been much more widely extended than it is.
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 22)
It is the weaving into the web of so many figures that spoils the pattern. Have we not had enough of this? The Lord calls for a proclamation of the truth in new territory. This has been the burden of my message for the last twenty years. The Lord calls for greater simplicity; for people are woefully ignorant. Saith the great Teacher, “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.]
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 23)
As from the Mount of Olives Christ looked down upon the doomed, guilty city, He exclaimed with heartbroken anguish and with tears running down His face, “O that thou hadst known, even thou in this thy day the things that belong unto thy peace”—then He paused, unwilling to pronounce the irrevocable sentence—“but now they are hid from thine eyes.” [Luke 19:42.]
(19LtMs, Lt 377, 1904, 24)
Lt 378, 1904
Davis, Marian “New England Sanitarium,” Melrose, Massachusetts August 17, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 251. Dear Sister Marian Davis,—
I would be pleased to be at home, but just what meetings I shall consent to attend is uncertain; therefore we will do the very best we can.
(19LtMs, Lt 378, 1904, 1)
I have not for one moment wished you could be with us, because our home is in every way preferable to any place we have yet been in. As for the sanitarium location we are now in, I cannot describe it. It is the most perfect location for a sanitarium.
(19LtMs, Lt 378, 1904, 2)
I have had my first ride today and wished you were seated in one vacant seat. I am asking the Lord to strengthen you. We are hopeful that you are better. Do keep fast hold of the Lord, your hand in the hand of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 378, 1904, 3)
I had quite an ill turn yesterday—acute pain near the heart—and I took hot bandages, yet was not relieved. Every breath seemed full of pain. But after treatment I fell asleep and am better today.
(19LtMs, Lt 378, 1904, 4)
Marian, you must not become discouraged. Your case is in the hands of the Lord, and you must now submit your case in regard to treatment to let the physicians Dr. Evans and Dr. Margaret do those things for you that must be done. We have other books to put in your hands when you shall overcome the illness now upon you. Be sure to eat, even if it causes some pain. The longer you refrain from eating the weaker you will become.
(19LtMs, Lt 378, 1904, 5)
I am very sorry we have been kept away from home one hour over the appointed time, but we cannot always do as we would. The Lord knows all about my desire to return home; but I am not to act like a stubborn child, but submit to the ways of the Lord, and without a murmur.
(19LtMs, Lt 378, 1904, 6)
We may inquire, How can the Lord have need of us? Is not our God full of might? Will you not lay hold on His strength? No living being can help you as the Lord Jesus can. Trust in Him. He will care for you.
(19LtMs, Lt 378, 1904, 7)
Lt 379, 1904
Davis, Marian Melrose, Massachusetts August 24, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 251-253. Dear Sister Marian Davis,—
Here we are at Melrose Sanitarium taking treatment. I have spoken once to a room full of nice looking people, nurses, and helpers. The Lord gave me words to speak, and all—physicians, ministers, and all present—seemed to appreciate the words spoken.
(19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, 1)
I entreat you not to have any anxiety in regard to the book Ministry of Healing. Let not one anxious thought come into your mind. I am sorry you are so ill, but do everything you can on your part for the recovery of your health. I will see that all bills of expense shall be settled. I am not well; not able to travel but a little distance in the carriage. I dare not commit myself to the lengthy journeys on the cars. As long as I and you shall live, my home is your home. If you never use your pen again we shall see that you are well cared for in my own home, else in the sanitarium when it is best for you.
(19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, 2)
I have often wished I were in my own home. I see very much to be done but dare not undertake the many things placed before me.
(19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, 3)
Marian, nearly the whole time I have been away I have not relished food, but I dare not cease to eat, for then I could do nothing. I have eaten when I could not relish food, in order that I might live. I have relished food since I came to this place. I put my trust in God and plead with Him for you and for myself. We are to have no anxieties or cares. Just put your trust in the Lord. All that is needed for you and me is to believe and trust in Him who is able to save to the uttermost all who come unto Him and will put their trust in Him. “Hold fast My hand,” Jesus says to you and me. You are encouraged to think right thoughts upon Christ our Saviour—your Saviour and my Saviour. You have rejoiced in every opportunity of doing what you could to promote His glory, and you will be led into the city of God when the last trump of God shall sound, and we shall be received with genuine joy.
(19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, 4)
Marian, you have been united with me to bring sound doctrine into actual contact with human souls that they may catch the inspiration and produce sound practice. “The form of sound words” is to be prized above gold and silver and every earthly attraction. [2 Timothy 1:13.] You have loved the truth. You have felt intensely over the great neglect our Lord and Saviour has been receiving. Oh, to be like-minded with God! This you have longed for. There is no genuine saving elevation for man apart from the truth of God.
(19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, 5)
“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name.”Psalm 103:1. Now please let you and me have a thanksgiving service every day. Is it not due Him who has spared your life these many years in answer to the prayer of faith? Give yourself into His hands in your weakness, and trust in Him fully. We will take the Word of God as the grand rule of our lives, the heavenly panacea in our hand. We have tried, you and I united, to bring before minds the true form of doctrine, mingling holiness, mercy, truth, and love. We have tried to present these in simplicity so that souls shall grasp mingled love and holiness—which is simply Christianity in the heart. We have done what we could to present Christianity as the crown and glory of man’s life here in this world, preparatory to entrance into the city of God to be His dear, precious, redeemed ones in the mansions He has gone to prepare for us. Then praise the Lord. Let us praise Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, 6)
Please eat, Marian, because your earthly physician would have you eat, and the great Medical Missionary would have you eat; and Sister Nelson will get anything you ask for. No one can be more pleased than I to have your life spared to continue to do the work; but if your or my time is come to fall asleep in Jesus, we must not shorten life by refusing the nourishment that the system must have. Now eat, my dear, whether you want to eat or not, and thus act your part toward recovery. Do your very best to recover, and then if it please the Lord to give you rest, you have done what you could. I appreciate your labors. Praise the Lord, Marian, that Jesus, the great Physician, can heal you. In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 379, 1904, 7)
Lt 380, 1904
Davis, Marian Middletown, Connecticut September 4, 1904 Previously unpublished. Marian Davis My dear sister and fellow helper,—
I would be glad to see you—very, very glad to encourage and cheer you up. I have been gaining in strength now since I came to Melrose. I have been able to relish food—the first I have been able to say tasted good for many weeks. There seemed to be a fever upon me, but I have been improving.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 1)
I have spoken here on Sabbath and Sunday. They have an excellent new tent—very large. The camp is small. This morning two of our brethren came to my room and had a few words of conversation with me, and they expressed their fears that today there would be but few out. The Sunday laws are after the old blue laws of Connecticut, and the remark was made that they might consider it sin to come to our meeting on Sunday. But all were surprised to see the people crowding in so that seats had to be provided for a large number, and then quite a number stood up around the tent. I saw before me the nice, large new tent filled with intelligent-looking people, first class in appearance. I spoke from (1 John 3); I carried the matter of temperance strongly, yet the interest did not flag. I am so thankful the Lord strengthened me by His great power.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 2)
I thought I would tell you we leave Monday for Omaha, calling at Battle Creek and speaking in midweek twice. I can then go on to Omaha and be at the last of the meeting.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 3)
I am anxious to hear how you are getting along. I have felt so sorry for you. I do not feel so anxious about my book Ministry of Healing. It will come out at the right moment. Now do not feel that I am disappointed. The Lord knows about it, and I am not worried a bit about the book, but I want you to stop worrying. You are the Lord’s property, and you must not abuse yourself. But eat you must. And try, dear sister, to commit yourself to the Lord and to rest in Him, and His peace will be your peace, because He will impart it to you. May the Lord strengthen you and breathe upon you His Holy Spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 4)
I shall be very sorry and disappointed if you prefer to die and make yourself die. I want your help very much, and I will continue to keep your case before the Lord. The Lord is good. The Lord loves you and the Lord’s will be done. If He would have you rest I will try to feel reconciled. The Lord Jesus is the mighty Healer. I trust you will cast your helpless self upon the Lord Jesus, who has preserved you and kept you.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 5)
I must now retire for I have to speak in the morning in regard to the Melrose Sanitarium. Give up all worry. Whether you live or whether you die, I will not murmur. But do not shorten your days one minute by any course you may pursue. Come right to the Lord, our great Physician.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 6)
Last night I was in prayer much that the Lord would be my Healer, and I do believe I shall be home in safety and that I can complete the books I have on hand. The Lord would have us not mourn but praise His holy name. The Lord is good and greatly to be praised. Think of His love and talk of His power and do not, for Christ’s sake, afflict your soul. He wants you to rest in Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 7)
I pray for you and hope for you and have courage for you. Be of good cheer, and know that the hand of the Lord sustains you. Now may the Lord save you day by day. He is your kind, compassionate Saviour. Look to Him, trust in Him, and His love will be expressed to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 8)
We shall now soon be in the cars on our way to Battle Creek, as straight as the cars can take us to Battle Creek, then Omaha, then College View, then San Diego, then home, if the Lord will. We hope to see you and that you will be greatly improved. Look to Jesus. Praise Him, for this is a refreshing exercise. In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 380, 1904, 9)
Lt 381, 1904
Davis, Marian Battle Creek, Michigan September 6, 1904 Previously unpublished. Sister Marian Davis,—
We are being entertained at the sanitarium. Every one whom we meet seems much pleased to see us.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 1)
The first morning, after we had rested overnight, the request was made that I speak to the patients. This I did, fastening their minds on the Physician of souls. The main room for their assembling was filled with patients. Some were in their wheel chairs and others were able to come in, for they were mere guests, and all classes that could get standing room were present.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 2)
I had much freedom in bringing before them the wonderful expressions of the goodness and the love of God, the compassion of Christ, and His tender sympathy for all the bruised and afflicted and suffering ones. I spoke on how thankful we should be that Christ is our Redeemer, that having been tempted in all points like as we are He knows how to succor all those who are tempted.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 3)
We can do much to keep our souls in brightness and in cheerfulness and in the love of Christ. We are ever, my dear Marian, to take our minds away from the annoying things and consider the precious blessings that the Lord freely bestows upon us. We have very much to be thankful for. The life that was going out in your youth the Lord in mercy restored to you and linked your life with mine, that you should be a blessing to help me as you have done. In this the Lord gave you grace and has taken possession of your mind, heart, and soul, and for so many years He has been your Helper and my Helper.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 4)
You have not always been willing to act prudently in taking time to ride and to lay aside your work, and we have given up too much to you and let you do as you pleased. In this I ask the forgiveness of God, for if I had always said, “Marian, I am going out to ride now, and I want you to go with me,” and allowed no excuse, I should have done my duty. If the Lord spares your life I will know better how to treat your case. But now just look on the bright side.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 5)
I tried to do and say many things in reference to not expanding the book, to not get so much into it, because it was not the last book we should write. I tried all I could to bring this about, but now we will look unto Jesus who is the great Medical Healer and trust in His restoring efficacy. He will do the very best thing for you in your feebleness and for me in my old age.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 6)
I am writing this while Sarah and Maggie are trying to pack up to go on the one o’clock train. If the sun shines out then I shall try to speak this afternoon; if not, we will go at one o’clock.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 7)
We pray for you and your sister who is with you. May the Lord guide you both in all wisdom.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 8)
In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 381, 1904, 9)
Lt 382, 1904
Davis, Marian College View, Nebraska September 26, 1904 Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 254. Dear Sister Marian,—
I have tried to excuse myself from going to Battle Creek, but there is too much at stake just now. I dare not disappoint them at Battle Creek, for I know not what use Satan will make of my not fulfilling my appointment. I shall leave here at half-past one o’clock, be on the train through the night, and stop off at one place and then go on to Battle Creek and if possible remain one Sabbath and first day; then take evening train to cross the Rocky Mountains. We pray your life may be preserved until we meet you once more, but you may not die, but live.
(19LtMs, Lt 382, 1904, 1)
Marian, would it not be better if you had your bed in one of the lower rooms? Would it not be saving to your strength? Please try it and may the Lord raise you up. I want to see you very much. Look to Jesus. Trust in Jesus, whether you live or die. He is your Redeemer. He is our Lifegiver. If you fall asleep in Jesus He will bring you forth from the grave to a glorious immortality. May He give you peace and comfort and hope and joy from henceforth.
(19LtMs, Lt 382, 1904, 2)
Put your entire trust in Jesus. He will never leave you nor forsake you. He says, I have graven you upon the palms of My hands. Marian, if you go before I do, we shall know each other there. We shall see as we are seen and known as we are known. Just let the peace of Christ come into your soul. Be true in your trust because He is true to His promise. Lay your poor, nervous hand in His firm hand, and let Him hold you and strengthen you, cheer and comfort you. I will now get ready to leave this place. Oh, I wish I were with you this moment! In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 382, 1904, 3)
Lt 383, 1904
Prescott, Brother and Sister [W. W.] Nashville, Tennessee June 9, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Prescott,—
I had hoped so much to hear from you ere this, but not one word has come from Brother Washburn, Brother Prescott, or from Brother Daniells. I may not be able to finish this letter before we shall have to take up matters of bookmaking to relieve the situation of the South. We are now on the boat, the “Morning Star.”
(19LtMs, Lt 383, 1904, 1)
When I left Berrien Springs I was hopeless of doing or saying anything more to relieve the situation. I had given the message the Lord has given me for them. I know the Spirit of the Lord was upon me, and I am so grateful to my heavenly Father.
(19LtMs, Lt 383, 1904, 2)
The smoke and impurity of the atmosphere seemed oppressive. My throat was smarting, and I was offering up prayer to God. The appeal I made was, “Leave me not alone. Thy presence I must have. Thou canst uphold and strengthen me.” When we stepped from the cars in Chicago, a carriage was waiting to take us to another depot, then another carriage a short distance, then the local city train away from Chicago seventeen miles, which cost seventeen cents for each. Brother Paulson was most faithful in doing all he possibly could to make us comfortable. [Unfinished]
(19LtMs, Lt 383, 1904, 3)
Lt 384, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. NP 1904 Previously unpublished. Dr. Kellogg Dear Brother,—
I am in great sadness of heart because I see the danger you are in of spoiling your future record so that you cannot meet it with joy, but with grief. You say, Write me the things you have. I have treated the matter in rather a general way and fear sometimes you do not receive all I do write. If you place your own construction upon these communications, and walk right on in the same course as you have done, you will walk in that darkness which comprehendeth not the light.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 1)
When you received the light and walked in the light, the things that I would write were received and made a blessing to you. But when the warnings and the cautions and reproof came to you, and you said, “It is not true,” did you mean it? If you did, will you not place all the afterlight given you of God beside the same that you refuse?
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 2)
The Lord is in earnest with you. There will be with you a sense of want, of utter helplessness in yourself. When this time comes, I have decided things to say. Until then, you would misunderstand the truth and call it misjudging you, and say, “It is not true.” When you are emptied of self and do not place J. H. Kellogg first and the Lord second, then you will give credit to the gospel of Jesus Christ and the testimony of His Spirit. Be not afraid to trust yourself in the hands of God, and humble your heart before Him. Then you can be “accepted in the beloved.” [Ephesians 1:6.]
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 3)
In turning away from self and submitting to wear the yoke of Christ, you will be eager to learn of Christ and will not look upon the regard your works of righteousness that you have done in altogether the same light in which you now regard them. You have virtually cut yourself away from the Lord’s appointed agencies. You will not heed His instruction. Those with whom you should have been united, in all your counsels in regard to your plans and movements, you have turned away from. And whom did you accept?
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 4)
You linked your arm in the arm of A. R. Henry, to make him your ally and your strong force, to create things in Boulder that need not be created because other parts of the vineyard were in a much more needy condition. You would take a man disconnected from God, one who has in various ways done greater injury to the work of God than any other man that has been connected with Seventh-day Adventists. He has betrayed the cause of God to enemies of our faith, to belittle, to cast reflections, to betray the people of God and place them in a false and disgusting light before those who are men of the world. Then your own course of influence has led them astray.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 5)
The Lord has presented some matters before me. In many things you have walked in your own counsel. You have created things that He gave no light and charge to create: you have absorbed the resources of the sanitarium to do a work as a large whole which brought all the means available into that which was to be only a branch and not a river, an arm and not a body. You have hedged up the work so that foreign missions could not go forward in the Lord’s own appointed way. The matter has placed itself before your imagination in such strong proportions that it overshadows every other work, even the gospel ministry. Your idea of the gospel is that it is to be submerged largely in the medical missionary work.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 6)
You are off the track, and God is not leading you in this path. Your feeling toward the gospel ministers is erroneous. And what if you could bring them all to regard the work, and to become absorbed in it, as you have done? Where are the people who are to be regarded as the nation whom God has chosen, who are to bear the sign of God and to stand distinct and separate from all nations upon the face of the earth? Will God have no church?
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 7)
The Lord sees where these things are tending, and He gave me cautions and instruction to give to you. You know very well how you took that instruction. In the place of feeling thankful that the Lord had oversight of you, as you have in the past, you felt more and more aggrieved, until your mind was really unbalanced and not capable of looking upon anything in a true, considerate light. Had you linked up with your ministering brethren who are—many of them—just as precious in the sight of the Lord, and are doing His work as verily as yourself, you would have taken a different course.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 8)
Those who really credit the work of the gospel ministry, when they have entangled themselves and poured into one portion of the work the resources which should be most wisely used for the sustenance of the whole body, will find resources if they will be humble and willing to see and correct their error. If this had been done, thousands of dollars which have been misapplied in that work, which will amount to little in lasting results, might have been used to produce facilities to advance with equity the whole work. Something must be done to keep vitality and strength to work all parts of the Lord’s moral vineyard. God’s people are to labor to be one.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 9)
Your work is to be of a different order. A most solemn, substantial work is to be done in the whole world. The last message of warning is to be given. You are appointed to carry the banner as God’s sentinel, not only among the lowest class, but the highest as well. Upon this banner is inscribed the third angel’s message. Hold the banner firm. Bear it high. Let no one take it from your hand. If you would triumph with the third angel’s message, you are to be a representative for the truth for this time. Your rest and peace and prosperity, your triumph at last, depend upon your holding the beginning of your confidence firm unto the end. Hebrews 3:5, 6.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 10)
Where are you going, John? Who is leading you? Where are your steps tending? God will hold your hand firmly if you will let Him. Chap. 2:10-13; 1 Corinthians 2:14-16.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 11)
All the profession of faith will not save one soul unless he continues in the faith. Matthew 10:16, 17. We have had demonstrated how much confidence can be placed in men, even men who have occupied positions of trust, if they are not under the sanctification of the Spirit of God. Verse 18. These chapters we had better consider. The Lord has signified He will be with us as long as we will be with Him. Colossians 1:21, 23-29.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 12)
The ministry is to be respected, and nothing is to be entertained that shall separate any missionary work, to exalt it above the ministry of the Word. Hebrews 5:7-10. We see that the Lord respects and honors His servants who bear the message of mercy to our world. Hebrews 10:19, 25, 35, 39. Do not pass over these things with your criticism and with condemnation.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 13)
You have a work to do, and that work is for you to be just what the Lord designed you should be. We are to be “A chosen generation, a royal priesthood, ... a peculiar people, that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”1 Peter 2:9.
(19LtMs, Lt 384, 1904, 14)
Lt 385, 1904
Kellogg, J. H. NP 1904 Previously unpublished. Portion of a letter to Dr. Kellogg (about 1904)
“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.... And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there He put the man whom He had formed. And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil. And a river went out of Eden to water the garden.”Genesis 2:1-3, 8-10.
(19LtMs, Lt 385, 1904, 1)
Everything that God could do was done, and the Lord pronounced all the works of His hands good. He rested from all His work which He created and made. The Lord gave the Sabbath to man to be kept holy. He sanctified the day of His rest as the sign designating the people of God from all people and nations.
(19LtMs, Lt 385, 1904, 2)
Now we are to take our position, and if you will come to God repenting, then the Lord will strengthen and bless and make His name to be magnified in your walking in the truth.
(19LtMs, Lt 385, 1904, 3)
These scientific studies have been a snare to you. The Word of God is to be your counsellor and your guide. I have an intense interest that you will recover yourself, and that all the power of Satan’s working will be forever broken.
(19LtMs, Lt 385, 1904, 4)
Be assured that never, never will those who are Seventh-day Adventists come into harmony with your philosophy or your science. You may lose your soul, and certainly will if you remain where you are; but if you will seek the Lord and walk humbly before Him, His grace will come to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 385, 1904, 5)
But when I know the track you have been going over I am instructed to say to you that you yourself, and all who sustain you, will be found leavened with the specious ideas and interpretations against which I am to lift my voice of warning. Your putting your mind to research of science is dangerous business, and there is not any warning too strong to be given to withhold you from this field you have entered. I tell you the truth, that if you keep on in the course you have been pursuing for years in research in so-called science, you will lose your soul. This is the testimony I have borne and shall bear to the end because I know the outcome.
(19LtMs, Lt 385, 1904, 6)
Say unto him, “Thus saith the Lord God; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God.”Ezekiel 28:2. You have not heeded the words of warning given. Leave these spiritualistic problems and cut loose from the influences you have so long been under to carry things according to your mind.
(19LtMs, Lt 385, 1904, 7)
Lt 386, 1904
Crisler, C. C. College View, Nebraska September 16, 1904 Previously unpublished. My dear Brother Clarence,—
I have this morning spoken in the church to a large audience from the first, second, and third chapters of Revelation. I had a message for the people and it was an earnest warning to prepare to meet their Lord in the clouds of heaven, for He cometh with power and great glory. I tried to present before them the indifference of many in reference to the signs foretold by Christ, giving the evidence that the end of the world is right upon us. Were it not possible for us to advance and receive the grace of God so that its effects upon us would be saving day by day, and the blessing of God bestowed be our strength, the apostle would not speak so decidedly and say, “We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.”2 Corinthians 6:1. “The grace of God” is the price of watchfulness, and prayer in faith brings to every soul the blessing, rich and precious, through the gift of the Holy Spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 1)
I greatly desire the Lord to work in behalf of Marian, but unless she will open the way for this it will be useless to try. I hope a change will come and her life be spared, but as she is now, death would be a blessing. I am perplexed over the features of her case. I hardly know how to advise you what to do. But I will say, If she were resting in the grave I would say, It is well with her soul.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 2)
I wish to caution you not to confine yourself too closely to your writings or anything that will create nervousness. You need to be guarded and have regular hours of sleep. Do not keep up for the reception of the mail. Go to rest early. I have a great desire to return, but two weeks I have promised them in Battle Creek and I shall fulfil my promise if the Lord permits.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 3)
I was very feeble in Philadelphia. I could not see how I was to speak in one tent in our locality and in another tent in another part of the city, but the Lord certainly would not leave me to human inability. I was thankful to speak to them. I was so thankful the Lord sustained me. Then when the contribution was taken up, our ministering brethren were so pleased to receive ten dollars. They usually had taken only two dollars and a half. But this encouraged them so much; I was greatly pleased.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 4)
The second tent was miles from the first tent. I felt so weak and feared some when the time came. We found the tent full of interested hearers. I was indeed weak. My limbs seemed unable to sustain me, and I thought I would present some easy subject of experience, simple truth. But I was on a wrong track and had to take up the first three chapters of Revelation, and here I was greatly blessed. I felt strength come into every nerve, and my message was clear and solemn and impressive. Not only did the blessing come upon me, but upon the ministers who were engaged in this tent effort, and the whole congregation seemed to recognize the power of God upon me. From that time I have been gaining.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 5)
I attempted to improve the opportunity to take treatment in the Melrose Sanitarium, but it only made me exceedingly weak. I have spoken in the sanitarium and in the tent five times, and those laboring there were greatly helped; and Brother Place and the Mr. Wheeler connected with him assured me that the blessing of God was sensibly realized by the congregation; a revival effort commenced and has been continued since. Souls have been seeking the Lord and conversions to the truth have made their hearts glad. I had an intense interest that the Lord would come in. Melrose is a favorable place to do good among the surrounding towns and villages. Boston must be worked.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 6)
We left Melrose to attend camp-meeting in Connecticut, the place where my husband and I went—from Topsham to Dorchester and from Dorchester to Middletown—and spent some time with Colonel Chamberlain’s family. Then we were called to Rocky Hill and remained there some time. This was in 1847. The Present Truth was written in Rocky Hill and sent out from Middletown to the few people. This was the first paper published among our people.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 7)
I spoke on Sabbath to a goodly company of intelligent believers and unbelievers. After the meeting—which was much appreciated—on the Sabbath, our ministering brethren began to talk unbelief. I told them this was not right. We had had our excellent meeting and should have increased faith. They said the old blue laws of Connecticut would be rigorously worked to keep people away on Sunday. But the good-sized meeting tent was full, and I was glad to see them several times having to bring in chairs and extra seats until the whole space under the tent was full and seats were placed just outside the tent to increase seating capacity. I spoke in afternoon and there was decided interest manifested. I felt glad I had come to Middletown. The Lord may give us some souls in that place. Next Monday forenoon I spoke again, and then we had to leave in the afternoon for Springfield.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 8)
At Springfield we changed cars for Battle Creek, and I am glad that I had opportunity to speak to parents and the guests the next morning, and then the next morning to the workers. A large number were present, and Dr. Kellogg spoke some words of confession; and then the request was, would I speak in the Tabernacle at one o’clock to all who would come. I said I would, expecting to meet about two hundred people, for it was a hasty call and an unusual hour. When I came into the pulpit, lo, there was before me a house nearly as crowded as at the last General Conference. I was informed there were twenty-five hundred people. I spoke to them for one hour and a half.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 9)
Before I commenced speaking, the question was asked me by A. T. Jones, would I remain over Sabbath and speak in the church? He pressed and begged me to remain, and the appointment was given out; but W. C. White came that night and assured me it would not do, for a large number were at Omaha waiting for me to come to be with them the last Sabbath and Sunday [of the camp meeting]. I then begged off, saying I would come back from College View meeting and spend two weeks if they would let me go. Well, they did let me go, and now I am [to go] for a two-weeks’ meeting at Battle Creek after the close of this meeting.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 10)
At Omaha there were about two thousand people on the ground. I spoke to the people three times. I believe that meeting will result in much good. Now I have spoken twice here and shall speak several times, if the Lord will strengthen me, then go on my way to Battle Creek.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 11)
This is the first letter written to you by my own hand since we parted. I will now charge you to make no reference to the book work if you see it creates nervousness. Marian has made a grave mistake, to her injury. I am sorry. I thought and continue to think my judgment right in limiting the number of pages and not keep her mind on a strain, but the evil has come. I pray for her that the Lord will help her to control her nerves, and I hope she will endeavor to do this. Let me hear if any change for worse or better takes place. If her sister helps her in any way I shall be so thankful. May the Lord bless Sister Kellogg. I hope all of you will make changes in getting as much as possible in the open air.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 12)
I will now say God keep and bless you all is my most earnest prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, 13)
Lt 387, 1904
White, J. E.; White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 8, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Children James Edson and W. C. White,—
I have just had your letter to May Lacey White handed to me. I am always glad to hear from my children, if it is only a few lines, especially when journeying. At this time accidents are so numerous. I thank my heavenly Father for His keeping power and praise the Lord. We may live now very near the Lord, and it is our only safety; and if life is lost it is preserved unto life eternal, for the righteous dead shall come forth from their graves to life, eternal life.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 1)
I am not able to write. My wearied brain can do a very little if no perplexities come to me. I think I told you I spoke in the church at St. Helena. It was quite warm but I thought I had escaped all danger of difficulty healthwise; but no, I was afflicted with catarrhal difficulty and la grippe and my head is unable to be used. No pain, but such decided weakness that I cannot write. Unless there is decided improvement I shall not attempt to attend the meeting at Healdsburg. I have taken two powerful sweats and I do not now sneeze as I did. Have one or two sneezing exercises each day and am very much relieved of the mucous discharges from my head. But my sufferings have not been much.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 2)
I have my nice room and that is of great value to me now. I had some things written before this la grippe seized me, and I have put them in Maggie’s hands to send to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 3)
I am just passing through this something—I hardly know what to name it, but call it la grippe. I am improving.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 4)
I have had invitations to good homes, Brother and Sister Mills’ and Brother and Sister McClure’s, but would not dare to venture either place. As I now am I must have conveniences for treatment that these places have not. I have rooms at the Home, and there are bathroom and other conveniences. So this is all ready for me if I can go at all.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 5)
We have had gentle rains, until night before last there was a thunder and lightning storm in regular eastern style. It seemed quite natural, cleared off, apparently, and then clouded up all day yesterday, notwithstanding no wind, as mild as summer. At night it commenced raining, and the first wind breeze we have felt this winter was this morning. The trees seem agitated some. All this month there have been raining soft, gentle showers. We are, as it seems to be, in a place of refuge.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 6)
Our good horse Stormy took sick. We had not been using him for some days because it was raining. He was feeding on the green grass, but we could do nothing to relieve him although much was done to save him. We buried him two days ago.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 7)
Our families are all well. Thank the Lord for His merciful kindness. We will have now to get two horses to work the place, disposing of the one large horse, but I am not in any way cast down, but trusting in the Lord in my helplessness. In the Lord we find a refuge. Had a good visit with May this morning. She does not wish to go to Healdsburg, and I cannot advise her to go. Home is the best place for mother and children. May is in excellent health and so are the children.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 8)
In regard to books being handled in Nashville, I am pleased to have the experiment tried. For some reason I receive not enough income for my books to really pay the outgoes in the help we must have. But we will talk of this in the future. Certainly there must be some moves made to bring something more to me, else we cannot be continually producing books and no income sufficient to continue the process. I am not gaining at all, but the outgoes in the hiring of money are large every year. Some kind of a way must be instituted to bring me larger returns from my large books. Sister Peck tells me in answer to my inquiries that twelve cents per copy is all I receive for Desire of Ages. I supposed the price was between twenty and thirty cents.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 9)
But I shall not worry. I shall try to get out of debt if possible, and I leave the matter there. As I shall see you now in a few days, I will not write for it tires my head. I may never be able to write as I have done. That meeting at Oakland was a terrible strain upon me, but I will not, I hope, ever be compelled to meet such an emergency again. I am wearied out with the unbelief of those who have had plenty of evidence, but I do not think I shall again place myself in the position I have been in several times.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 10)
God, the living God, will help His people if they will choose to be helped. And those who do not choose to be helped must suffer the consequence of their own unbelief. I shall keep away from everything that savors of contention and strife and let those who desire this element have a severe letting alone to enjoy their own contention. Light is sown for the righteous, and if they want peace and love, let them sow a crop and they will have a harvest of that which they have sown. If contention is the element they choose, they will have the unenviable task of reaping that which they have sown.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 11)
We have as Christians to give glory to God. When from the heart we give God glory in expressing His grace, His love, and His excellencies that He gives to all who love Him and keep His commandments, we convince all by our deportment that we have chosen the wise course of obedience and employ all our faculties in His service. The false motives, the spurious principles which gave birth to so many fair appearances of pretentious good works, have no rule in the heart. I know that the Lord Jesus recognizes the pure in heart because that heart honors his Maker. The humble believer in Christ is a Christian, and he is denominated of God as such. True, pure religion has the honor and glory of God in view. Self is lost sight of. He prays and labors to have transcribed on his heart, and to express in his life with the greatest clearness and the most distinctive manner, the holiness and righteousness of God, His forbearance and mercy and communicative goodness. But I must stop. Letter called for to envelope.
(19LtMs, Lt 387, 1904, 12)
Lt 388, 1904
White, W. C. “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California March 14, 1904 Previously unpublished. W. C. White Dear Son,—
I have just read your few lines to May, but it contains items of importance. We have had continuous rains this month thus far. February was a beautiful month, pleasant but for about two days, but this month is cloudy with gentle rains, no strong winds. One day was windy, but great complaint was made in San Francisco and Oakland of high winds. The sun has peeped through the clouds, but the veil comes over its face and hides it from us; rained nearly all night.
(19LtMs, Lt 388, 1904, 1)
We have had Sister Whitney visit us. She said her journey from Battle Creek was a real rest to her. She did not mind it at all; had no difficulties on the way. I have had only a little time with her. Shall see her again this week.
(19LtMs, Lt 388, 1904, 2)
The report is that the roads are very bad through the canyon. Your wife and I have just counselled together. She thinks she will take Grace and leave the boys with Nora. Their studies could go on, and May will feel quite free to leave. This is a good arrangement. If it keeps on raining I shall be perplexed as to what way we shall go that is perfectly safe. Brother James may come over the last of next week. Maggie will come in one carriage with Sara and me, and Dores in the carriage with May and Crisler (?). Stormy is dead, so we are short of horses.
(19LtMs, Lt 388, 1904, 3)
I just drop you these few lines, sending to San Diego. We pray for you, that you may be returned to us with your associate fellow workers in the ministry accompanying you, all in good condition. We will be glad to welcome you all at Healdsburg. With much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 388, 1904, 4)
Lt 389, 1904
White, W. C. “New England Sanitarium,” Melrose, Massachusetts August 18, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Son W. C. White,—
I received your communication last evening. I had told them here, Brother Wheeler and Brother ______ that I would speak on Sabbath and on Sunday—Sabbath in a place very nigh the sanitarium, Sunday in Boston—but a letter came to me which I will enclose. I told our brethren here I thought I ought not to delay visiting New Bedford before the meeting. I can go today and return next Monday or Tuesday. I wish you were here, W. C. White, to go with me.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 1)
We did not get to Boston until half-past eleven o’clock. Brother and Sister Nicola were at the train to meet us, and they hurried off Maggie and Sister Hall and hand baggage while we walked quite a long distance to get to the carriage, and we stepped into a carriage precisely in appearance like the one Dr. Kellogg had and sent to me at St. Helena. It was not an agreeable ride; very, very disagreeable. We drew to our journey’s end at Melrose and at half-past two o’clock retired to rest. I could not sleep much. Two hours was all.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 2)
The next day, Tuesday, Sister Nicola drove the horse. Sara and Maggie went to South Lancaster, and we accompanied them to the station, then spent about two hours in riding around the lake, a most beautiful drive. I was sick as evening approached. Tuesday night took treatment and slept well. Wednesday rode about three hours there. Then at night took treatment, slept quite well and was up at four this morning. About five o’clock met with patients assembled and talked with them nearly one hour.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 3)
Quite a large congregation was before me, and I had much freedom in speaking of the responsibilities resting upon each and every one to do his best to reach the perfection of character it was the privilege of each one to reach, and now was our opportunity to receive the things we ask for from Christ Jesus, and receiving to impart. All seemed deeply interested. I read to them at the commencement of my remarks (Revelation 21:1-11), and my remarks were upon the great science of the plan of salvation. If all would study the plan of God for the saving of the world through Jesus Christ, who gave His whole being to achieve this; if we study that which Christ has made it possible for every soul, from the highest nobleman to the poorest servant, to obtain the eternal riches, such as cannot be obtained in the earthly region, all would be intensely interested in this heavenly science of making their investments in that blessed world where nothing is at discount. All, all is the highest science for any mortal to obtain—the far more, the exceeding and eternal weight of glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 4)
This highest science in educational lines is expressed by Jesus Christ in (John 17, verse 3): “And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.” Thank God for such a science that all may acquire. Every sacrifice we make in His service is through talent given of God, consecrated and returned back to God, accumulated into a treasure which is beyond human computation. Every effort made to co-operate with God through Jesus Christ in this present life, if each will perseveringly be true and faithful unto the end, Christ has promised to repay in this present life a hundredfold, and in the world to come, life, everlasting life.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 5)
Oh, my thoughts go out while I speak and write. Whatsoever is transmitted to the human subject in this life, and is treated according to the science of salvation in soul-saving, is all under the guardianship of Omnipotence and is laid up securely by the throne of God. This is the science of heaven’s principles.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 6)
I stop right here. I may go to New Bedford tonight or on the morrow. I will finish my letter when I come from my riding today. I am hoping to hear from you as often as you can drop a line. I think it best for me to make this visit, leaving here today or tomorrow for New Bedford. If you think best for me to wait in New Bedford until you come, let me know this as soon as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 7)
You see what is expected by reading the letter. In haste. Sister Nicola says she is ready to take me to ride.
(19LtMs, Lt 389, 1904, 8)
Lt 390, 1904
White, W. C. Melrose, Massachusetts August 29, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 21MR 414-415. Dear Son Willie,—
This morning Mother is rather weary. I spoke one hour under the tent. The weather has been cool and very nice for the meetings. I tried to forget we might have been much better situated and made a much better impression than we have made. Our tent has been full, and the children were in a meeting in another tent.
(19LtMs, Lt 390, 1904, 1)
I am pleased to tell you the Lord strengthened me on Sabbath to bear a decided message. To His name be all the glory. I know the impression was made by His Holy Spirit. On Sunday afternoon I urged the truth with more decided firmness and power. A man was present who had expressed a desire to see me and talk with me in regard to the round and flat world. I sent him a message that when Christ gave my commission to do the work He had placed upon me, the flat or round world was not included in the message; the Lord had taken care of His house, His world here below, better than any human agency could care for it; and until the message came from the Lord, silence was eloquence upon that question.
(19LtMs, Lt 390, 1904, 2)
I then said to the congregation that I had to present to them the science of higher education. Luke 10:17-24. Now all listen, “And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted Him saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”Luke 10:25. Here is a question of highest science. The Lord Jesus turned over the question to the lawyer himself. “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.” Christ said unto him, “Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor?”verses 26-29. Then Christ gave a parable of the Good Samaritan. This is the true science of Christianity. The great question is, What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? This is the science of what constitutes the higher education; and when this question is properly adjusted, the capabilities of the whole man are called into full exercise. There will be no agitation of the question whether the world is round or flat, but the whole burden of the soul is: What shall I do to inherit eternal life? We need now to make every talent that God has given us to be employed to His name’s glory.
(19LtMs, Lt 390, 1904, 3)
I had a very solemn message, and it made a decided impression on the many assembled. Several followed me out to the carriage to speak a word with me. Professor Ramsey came to the carriage and spoke with me. Seemed very glad he heard me again. He has fulness of flesh, but his countenance is greatly changed in expression. There was not that intelligence and refinement that has once been there, and I felt sorry.
(19LtMs, Lt 390, 1904, 4)
Lt 391, 1904
White, W. C. Melrose, Massachusetts September 1, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Son Willie White,—
This is the last day I shall be here. Tomorrow I leave for Middletown camp-meeting. I will, if you think best, leave Middletown Sunday evening or Monday morning. As we are to pass through Battle Creek, I have planned a meeting for Monday and Tuesday merely to give my testimony to all who shall assemble, then go on to the meeting in Omaha. I will give up Omaha if it is considered best for me to continue over Sabbath and Sunday at Battle Creek. I go from here Friday, on the morrow, to Middletown. Edson was born at Rocky Hill, Connecticut.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 1)
I have now decided it is best for me to speak at Battle Creek in the week time. If I could merely leave my testimony with them and then pass on to Omaha and not feel that I would have to go again to Battle Creek! So we will meet you in some place, I know not where. Yesterday afternoon I spoke to a large company in the tent. This makes five times I have spoken.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 2)
September 2
Dr. Nicola has talked with me considerably. Both he and __________ say that this visit has been to them all a great blessing. Brethren Place and Wheeler have said the same, most decidedly. The benefit of our coming here, they say, cannot be estimated. It has done for the work here that which nothing else could have done. Meetings were reported as excellent. One hundred, they say, came forward for prayers and they are full of courage. Five hundred dollars was raised to help them in Melrose.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 3)
I saw Brother Cottrell Thursday. He had a severe cold and was to take treatment.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 4)
This morning, Friday, early, in a short time, we leave for the cars. I am writing on the top of satchel. When we shall see you I cannot say, but will be most glad to meet you. The report from Brother Place is successful meetings. I have done all I dared to do. I am stronger than when I came here.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 5)
Mother *****
This is Friday morning. I have received two letters from Dr. Kellogg. But you have read one letter. If you deem it not best to speak in Battle Creek and use my strength in that way, let me know by telegram. I have written I will meet with them and speak in the Tabernacle once or twice if able, and if this is not the best thing to do, I would like to know. I shall speak twice in Middletown and then leave for Omaha.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 6)
I know Dr. Kellogg is like a blind man with a cane, striking about to find the road, but all I can say is everything is to me very much like surface work. If he goes no further and deeper, I shall conclude he has considered he had to do something to run the institution and have nurses and associate physicians to be with him. I shall be glad if the awakening is genuine repentance, but he has not fallen on the Rock. Yet I am sure he sees through blind eyes, and I do not think that of all his associates in workers in any line they have any clear conception as to past, present, or future. I will do my best in speaking to them if I tarry a couple of days in Battle Creek. This I must do now.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 7)
I am to tell them we are years behind, where we should be years advanced. Had they been true and righteous before God, many souls would have been converted who are now floundering about, unsettled and confused. As you yourself can see, they do not know light from darkness or darkness from light. Shall I speak? Oh, may the Lord be with me is my most earnest prayer. I dread everything of the kind, but it must be done sometime.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 8)
I am much stronger than when I came to Melrose. I hope I shall have the clear light shining upon my pathway. I have tried to urge our people under the tent to have a sense of the nearness of the closing up of the work in this world, and yet here are cities unwarned. There must be a revival, a life, a power the church does not now have.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 9)
I had a talk with Brother Gilbert. I cannot forbid or discourage him in his work. We need one hundred such men where we now have one. The message must go into the churches; and if this is one of the ways, we will say, God be praised, and not discourage anyone who can preach the Word.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 10)
If only E. E. Franke had given evidence he was under the control of the Spirit of God, I would be so thankful to have him give the message to the churches. But what can we say to him? I write him not, because I know not what use he will make of anything I may say, or when.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 11)
If this scribbling can be read, I shall be glad.
(19LtMs, Lt 391, 1904, 12)
Mother
Lt 392, 1904
Brethren and Sisters in Australia “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California December 21, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 241-244. Dear Brethren and Sisters in Australia,— [First portion missing]
From Glendale we went to San Diego, where we spent three weeks at the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. I think I have told you before about this property. It consists of a 50-room house and 30 acres of land and cost the original owners $50,000. Three years ago it was offered to us for $15,000. We could not then see our way clear to purchase it, though we realized that it would be an excellent place for a sanitarium. The next year it was offered to us for $12,000. Still we delayed purchasing, and about a year ago we bought it for $5,500.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 1)
The building had been standing unoccupied for a good many years and was in need of some repairs. About eight months ago Brother E. R. Palmer went there to take charge of the work for a time, and when we reached the sanitarium at the time of our recent visit, we were pleasantly surprised to see how much he and his wife and their helpers had done in getting the building ready for the reception of patients. By taking advantage of sales of furniture by wealthy people leaving the district, Brother Palmer secured several lots of first-class furniture at a very low price; and we found about half the rooms in the building furnished.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 2)
A scarcity of water was the only thing against the property’s being used as a sanitarium. The country is suffering from a long drought, and as the trees on the place had not been watered, many of them were dead when we bought it. There was one well. A new windmill was bought, and this well has supplied the house with water for several months. It has never been pumped dry, but it was feared that it would not supply sufficient water for the requirements of a sanitarium, so the men were set to work to dig another well on the lower part of the land. When we reached there, they had gone down about 80 feet and had already found some water. They were going down still farther through the clay to the gravel below.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 3)
One evening Brother Palmer came to my room, his face lighted up with joy, to tell me that a stream of water as big as his hand was running into the well. The next morning early Brother Palmer and Willie came in saying that there was 14 feet of water in the well. I wish you could have seen the joy in their faces.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 4)
To get the water out of the well was the next problem so that the workmen could dig a few feet farther down. They set the pumping engine going, but found that this lowered the water very slowly. So they got a larger cylinder and a larger pipe and finally got the water pumped out.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 5)
Then they dug down a few feet farther, and when we left San Diego they were making a large reservoir at the bottom of the well to hold the water flowing in. The making of this reservoir will be a difficult matter, but the well-digger thoroughly understands his business and makes steady progress.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 6)
The water is soft and pure, and there will be an abundant supply both for domestic and irrigating purposes. Oh, how we rejoice to know this. This well is a treasure of more value than gold or silver or precious stones.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 7)
There was one patient at the sanitarium before we left, although the building was not yet ready for opening. Others are waiting to enter just as soon as the institution is opened. The night before we left, Sara said to me, “Two more patients came this evening.”“Where will they put them?” I asked, for the house was being repainted inside and was in no condition for patients. “In the barn, I suppose,” was her answer. She then explained that these patients were the two cows that someone in San Pasqual has given to the sanitarium. San Pasqual is 30 miles from San Diego, and the cows were brought overland in a large wagon. The week before, Willie and some of the brethren had visited San Pasqual and told our people there about the needs of the sanitarium, and as the result they received about $600 in donations and these two cows.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 8)
I was sick all the time that I was in San Diego. I was worn out when I left home, and I must have caught cold on the way down. I coughed a great deal, sometimes so hard that it seemed as if my breath would go. I kept closely to my room, for I did not wish to expose anyone else. I am thankful to say that I am gradually recovering. The Lord is giving me physical and mental strength, and for this I praise His holy name.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 9)
On our return from San Diego, we spent a few days at the Glendale Sanitarium. We found the house filled with painters, plumbers, and carpenters. Preparations for the opening of the institution were being hastened forward. Those in charge of the work hope that the opening may take place early in January.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 10)
From there we went to Redlands, a town about 65 miles from Los Angeles. Tent meetings were held recently in Redlands and Riverside, and in each place a church was raised up. The brethren were anxious that I should speak to the believers in these places. Brother Ballenger and wife had a nice little cottage in this place where we were accommodated. On Sabbath morning I spoke in the Redlands church. At the close I spoke of the Glendale Sanitarium and of the need of means with which to begin the work. That evening another meeting was held, in behalf of the sanitarium, and $275 was subscribed.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 11)
On Sunday morning I drove to Riverside, a distance of 15 miles, and spoke in the church there. The Lord gave me strength and freedom.
(19LtMs, Lt 392, 1904, 12)
Lt 393, 1904
White, Ella; White, Mabel San Diego, California Circa November 18, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 263-266. Ella May White and Mabel White,—
I wrote you a couple of pages yesterday. The weather is good, and if we had showers this climate would be very greatly improved.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 1)
Our workman is now digging [a] well and curbs as he goes on with his work. I tell you, it seemed rather perilous as he was let down with a windlass 75 feet. He thinks he must go ten feet deeper. We think there will be plenty of water, fresh, sweet, and pure. The workers are urging themselves from point to point of the work as rapidly as possible.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 2)
This is a large, well-arranged house and a sanitarium that in many respects is perfect. The treatment rooms are in need of some improvements. The parlor is a good-sized, pleasant room [with] open doors into a second parlor-dining [room] sufficiently ample for all the tables needed for a long time.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 3)
[The] room which I occupy is one of the best on this floor. The one Sister Gotzian occupies is above mine, third story, of same size and convenience. Bedrooms all made convenient; marble washbowls in nearly all the rooms in the house, pipes connected.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 4)
I cannot give all particulars. I am sick—taken sick last week with severe cold several days ago and have coughed a great deal. My lungs seem to be congested, but the throat is the worst. I am sorry, because the people could not hear me speak last Sabbath and Sunday. They were so earnest that I rode six miles to San Diego Sunday, but my throat was so congested I could not have voice to speak but 20 minutes. I am coughing and raising [phlegm], and the Lord has graciously sustained me.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 5)
Your father is in council meetings daily. It means much to start up with preparation for new building. It is partially now furnished.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 6)
I have wished myself at home many times, but dared not go. We will go back next Sabbath and Sunday to Los Angeles and see about the preparations that shall be required for that sanitarium. It is some larger than this one and is well located. Everything seems to be satisfactory. It is now having the treatment rooms by carrying up—building on one end and extra—going up three stories. There are already set a couple of bathtubs in each story. These will be arranged in the new rooms of the building. One very convenient matters is that [the] railway comes very nigh the building, which carfare is only ten cents a passage to Los Angeles. This building, in the providence of God, was purchased for $12,000. The price was much larger—dare not state precisely. [In margin, “tell particularly.”]
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 7)
Your father, Sister Gotzian, Brother Ballenger left for ______ to see if he could borrow some money.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 8)
November 23
Your father returned last night.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 9)
We have found an earnest working company hard at work fitting up the house, painting, calcimining, and painting while there is a party at work all the time in the pumping-plant building. They have gone down, down, many feet—90 feet—they go ten more.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 10)
But yesterday evening Brother Palmer came in my room, saying, “You will be glad to hear that there is a large vein of water struck.” They had to work patiently to get through the clay. Then they struck the gravel again, but left all their tools as usual in the well.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 11)
***** November 24, 1904 Dear Children—
Your father has returned from __________. He has received for [the] sanitarium two excellent cows and hens for the sanitarium, and there was collected $600 in gifts to help furnish the sanitarium. This [is] good thus far, but shall need more gifts and shall, I think, obtain more. Your father is working with all his capabilities, and that is why he has neglected to write you. I believe we shall see this sanitarium prosper.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 12)
I would be pleased to see Mabel in [a] position here. Brother and Sister Palmer will be pleased to have you here in some position of trust. There are nice conveniences, and I think the climate would suit you, Mabel, excellently well. I wish you could be here while we are here but engage yourself to no nursing. We will have matters all fixed up. The stairs to the second and third stories are very easy of ascent.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 13)
But about [the] well. Early in the morning of [the] 23rd, Brother Palmer came to my room in company with your father and told us there was 15 feet of water. This morning, the 24th, there is 20 feet of water and their tools at the bottom of the well. I cannot express to you how very glad we all are made. [There is] plenty of water [for] all purposes. This cannot be estimated by gold or by silver. Water means life, and it is impossible to estimate it. They wish to go down ten feet more, and their water plant with the very best machinery and with larger pipe may lessen the measure.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 14)
They want to make everything the very best possible for the future. This means [that] our orange trees, few although they be, may be saved. The Lord has answered all our expectations, and we shall have reason for thanks, giving two wells. [The] one [at] the first has never failed, but [we] dared not use the water to nourish the olive trees, orange, and lemon trees; and now we feel we can supply every emergency. I want to praise the Lord with heart and soul and voice.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 15)
I must now close this long letter. You will hear from your father soon, and then something definite will be determined. We want Mabel to take right hold here. Ella May is to fill her lot and place. You must both be of good courage in the Lord. Can you tell us how much money was raised upon the contribution day? We hope something was done. Your father will remain here to get things settled until the middle of next week. There are arrangements to be made, there are plans to (be) talked up. And then it may be the middle of next week before we start on our way for Los Angeles; and [we] may have to remain there some days, but we hope not long.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 16)
I close my letter now with the intelligence that Clarence Crisler, who has been engaged three years to a lady working in [the] Review and Herald, will be united in marriage this evening. He seems rather confused; it is such a new experience to him that he seems almost dazed. Your father will perform the service.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 17)
Good night children. You will hear from your father very soon. Now they are talking over future plans.
(19LtMs, Lt 393, 1904, 18)
Lt 394, 1904
White, Ella; White, Mabel San Diego, California November 23, 1904 This letter is published in entirety in 14MR 266-268. Dear Children Ella May White and Mabel White,—
I did not meet your father last night. He did not come until eight o’clock. This morning your father and Brother Palmer came into my room very early. Brother Palmer was somewhat excited. Said he, “There is 15 feet come in the past night, and we have, with our pumping apparatus, tried to lessen the depth, but we have to send for a larger pipe to take out the water.” They say the water is soft and clear.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 1)
Well, both these two men were so glad they scarcely could keep from shouting aloud, “Success, Success!” Now their business is to get the water out, to go ten feet deeper, if they can do this. But we shall have no more worriment about whether water can be obtained. This means everything to us here, who must have water for sanitarium purposes. We must have plenty. The sanitarium had one well that has never gone dry, and yet we needed another reliable source, for [the] sanitarium requires much, and we are so glad, so glad. They are all now interested to do their very best to set this sanitarium in operation.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 2)
Do not worry, Mabel. There are two institutions—one in Los Angeles and one in San Diego—and this one in San Diego, we think, will be your choice. I will talk with your father about the matter this very day if I can get a chance.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 3)
I have isolated myself from the family since last Sabbath, I think it is—taking cold speaking in tents. In Omaha it commenced, and I spoke at College View five times, and I rode out one day in a very cold, powerful wind and became chilled, then went back to Battle Creek and spoke five times, then stopped off at Fresno and spoke to a large audience. In Battle Creek, Sabbath was 1500; on Sunday 1200. This was a great tax to me.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 4)
Then we passed through the same at Battle Creek, and darkness of Marian’s death. She has been with me in my work for 25 years. She was appointed of God to help me, and we have been united to bring before the people a grand amount of precious truth. How I shall miss her as my helper! I left immediately after her burial to journey to Los Angeles and to this place. I do keep you in my mind much. I do not want you to take smallpox patients. You hold on until I write again, which will be soon.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 5)
There will be opportunities for you. We have had much company, but until one week ago last Sabbath I have not dared to converse. I will not neglect to write you. Just put your trust in the Lord, and He will open the way for you.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 6)
I am not sorry you moved out of that house. You did not say how much rent you paid, but let me know. I will have an opportunity to see your father. Put your whole trust in the Lord and be of good courage. He will not leave or forsake you. He will be your present help in every emergency. Our time here is short; indeed mine is.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 7)
Lucinda left us yesterday for Los Angeles, and she goes on to Oakland, and she says she will meet us in St. Helena. We expect to leave Los Angeles next week for home. What route we will take I do not know. I will now wait to see what your father will say.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 8)
We find several rooms well furnished and with excellent class of furniture, but we need much more means to furnish so many rooms. But we will begin at once and make steady headway with the sanitarium, preparing for guests. Several are waiting, anxious to come.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 9)
I must now think of home and when we will start. I must describe to you—the roads are lined with pepper trees and olive trees. Some trees have olives on them. There is the pepper tree; that is my choice—eucalyptus next. In [the] mountains, pines and spruce come first. There are many nice houses here. National City was calculated to be a large center, but there are different drawbacks. National City building is a nice large building, but you may see it before long. So I end my letter with love.
(19LtMs, Lt 394, 1904, 10)
Lt 395, 1904
Kress, Brother and Sister “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California February 9, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
I have received your letters thankfully and read them interestedly, and I think I shall ask you not to suppose I am in any way forgetful of you because I do not write to you, but it is because things come in that demand immediate attention and therefore I face an impossibility. Reluctantly I shall be able to write only a short letter, but the one to Brother and Sister Irwin is free for you to read, and Brother Burden. There are cases [that] come to me that will bear no delay. I must write, and they that I know are in peril I must not neglect.
(19LtMs, Lt 395, 1904, 1)
We are very glad to hear all the good news, that of souls coming to the knowledge of the truth. One soul saved is above the riches of the whole world. Oh, if we could only appreciate the value of the sacrifice that Christ has made in our behalf, we could not be despondent, we could not hang down our heads and complain of the hardness and troubles we meet in the way. I am glad you are not inclined to dwell on the dark side, for it never pays. [If] we will look up we will be sure to be obedient to all God’s requirements, and we will rejoice because the joy of Christ is in our souls and His joy is a fulness that will find expression. It never helps any soul to talk unbelief and darkness. St. Paul was one who appreciated Christ. He was the property of Christ in the fullest sense. He was Christ’s by consecration, Christ’s by service. He bore the signet mark of voluntary surrender of soul, body, and spirit unto Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 395, 1904, 2)
He was always Christ’s humble, happy, devoted, steadfast servant. Once he says he was a “blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious.”1 Timothy 1:13. The life that he once lived in the flesh was against Christ wholly and utterly, but oh, he did all these hateful things because he did not know Christ. How changed a man he was when he was arrested on his route of persecution of Christ’s followers. Now the whole man was converted, born again. Now his whole life was for Christ. It was through Christ that he saw himself so great a sinner. What a change came over his whole religious experience!
(19LtMs, Lt 395, 1904, 3)
Speaking of his own experience and his associates, he says, “None of us liveth to himself, no man (dieth) to himself. Whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord. Whether we live or die we are the Lord’s.”Romans 14:7, 8.
(19LtMs, Lt 395, 1904, 4)
This is the comfort I take in my experience. If this were the life of Paul, not a life centered in himself, but a life brought fully into a blessed captivity to Christ, then we may have a similar experience. Living a life devoted to Christ for the good he can do in ministering to others through his influence, many were encouraged, many were learning to serve the Lord Christ. In the same way that Christ did enable Paul to do as His servant, He will enable every soul to do who will accept of Christ as his personal Saviour. We certainly should have our life wholly as devoted as was the life of Paul. And it is Christ, through receiving Him, that makes it possible for Christ to give [us] power to become sons of God and daughters of God. God would have us live a consistent, uniform, beautiful Christian life. Then there is the promise that the power is bestowed upon us, that we are indeed partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Our obligations are to be felt as equal with the obligations of Paul.
(19LtMs, Lt 395, 1904, 5)
May He bless you as a family and make hearts cheerful always in Christ Jesus.
(19LtMs, Lt 395, 1904, 6)
Lt 396, 1904
Kress, Brother and Sister “Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California April 12, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Brother and Sister Kress,—
I have written to answer letters to different ones [besides] the letters to yourselves engaged in the work at the sanitarium and [a] letter written to Brother Sharp and Dr. Caro. I cannot possibly do more in the line of writing our friends in Australia. I can only write you a few lines. Do not in any way be discouraged. The Lord is our God, and to Him we must look and in Him we may trust. Let not any outward appearance cause your heart to fail or you to be discouraged.
(19LtMs, Lt 396, 1904, 1)
I find comfort in these words: “But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.” [1 Corinthians 1:30.] The believer is in Christ. There is expressed affection and close relationship, confidence, security, and continuity. Thank God [for] the members of the royal family. In Him is life, and hope, and freedom. I hope that the things I have written will have no influence to discourage. I want to see you by faith clothed with hopeful garment which is thanksgiving and praise. Ever keep your hearts uplifted and joyous in God.
(19LtMs, Lt 396, 1904, 2)
I see the great need of your having the very best and constant and reliable help. Get it, if possible, that you may be with a good physician in the home, able to go out some to the gatherings of our people and tell them all they must have a personal interest in the sanitarium in New South Wales. You are to work yourselves but, too, all others must share the burden. Trials will come. Mistakes will be made, but always may be turned to the glory of God by avoiding greater mistakes. Let us all be sure to not discourage one another. O let our words impress upon others the necessities of the truth’s abiding in the heart and His light and grace and His joy shining more and more unto the perfect day.
(19LtMs, Lt 396, 1904, 3)
As Christ abides in the soul, diffusing and developing its resources, we can and will diffuse the blessings He gives us. My heart pants after the living God, and I long to make known the riches of His grace, for He is the King of righteousness. “But I will not fail nor be discouraged” must be your motive power to keep you above trial and discouragement. [See Isaiah 42:4.] I have written to Brother Irwin, and I must go to the dentist right away. God bless you and encourage you is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 396, 1904, 4)
In much love.
(19LtMs, Lt 396, 1904, 5)
I cannot even read this over. Excuse all mistakes.
(19LtMs, Lt 396, 1904, 6)
Lt 397, 1904
Battle Creek Church National City, California November 24, 1904 Previously unpublished. [To the Battle Creek Church,—]
I will try to write a few lines in response to the letter sent me in regard to purchasing a new organ for the Battle Creek church. I marvel that those who are acquainted with the testimony given by the Lord in the past concerning this matter should be undecided as to what course to pursue.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 1)
The only thing I can recommend you to do is to study the following Scripture:
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 2)
“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.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 3)
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall My word be that goeth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Isaiah 55:6-13.]
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 4)
In the place of investing money in an organ, let a collection be taken up to help in building a house of worship in Nashville that will be a proper representation of the grand, holy message that we believe. Let the money you would otherwise invest in an organ be put into this church, which will send forth the gospel message. Thus you will help to bring about the fulfilment of the promises of this beautiful Scripture. Instead of investing means in a high-priced instrument for your church, deny yourselves, and let the money go toward the erection of the meetinghouse of which I have spoken.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 5)
I would bring to your notice another interest that is in great need of help—the colored sanitarium in Nashville. This institution is doing its best with the limited facilities at its command, and the Lord calls upon us to do something to help it. With these important matters demanding attention, do you think that the Lord would be pleased to have you invest a large amount of money in a pipe organ?
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 6)
As you read this letter, will you be surprised that the Lord has sent the members of the Battle Creek church warnings that they are to invest their means in a way that is in harmony with the counsels of One who never errs, One who never makes a mistake? In many of our mission fields there is suffering necessity.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 7)
The Lord has given special instruction that sanitariums should be established in Southern California. This instruction we are trying to carry out. In San Diego County, six miles from San Diego, we have purchased a beautiful building that is especially well adapted for sanitarium work. This institution we are trying to get into working order, that the sick and suffering may come for treatment and may be taught the principles of health reform. At Glendale, five miles from Los Angeles, another new sanitarium is about to be opened. These institutions will need all the help that can be given them.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 8)
I would ask you to work for the Southern field by placing in your own homes and in the homes of your friends and neighbors the little self-denial boxes that have been prepared by the Southern Missionary Society. The Lord calls upon you to carry forward this good work. Let no one say, “It is not necessary.” Go forward in the right way. On every hand we see extravagance and a needless outlay of means. Let us exert a counterinfluence by setting in motion methods that will arrest the attention. Lift up the signal in every house possible. The Lord will make these little boxes a means of accomplishing great good in the salvation of souls if His people will co-operate with Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 9)
I now ask you to take up a donation, not for an organ for the Battle Creek church, but to help to meet the necessities of the Lord’s work in the Southern field. Brethren Magan and Sutherland have gone to this field to establish a school for the training of workers. This movement of theirs was in harmony with the will of the Lord. But the school that they are establishing will need the help of God’s people.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 10)
The Southern field is a special field, greatly needing the self-denying, self-sacrificing help of believers in other parts of America. This field, with its many, many necessities, is pleading for special attention. The Lord calls upon His people everywhere to relieve these necessities. My brethren and sisters in Battle Creek, if you desire to hear the sweetest, most heavenly strains of music in the tabernacle, give of your means to supply the needs of the work in the South. Ask the Lord for guidance, and work in harmony with your prayers, and you will make music in the choir above.
(19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, 11)
Lt 398, 1904
Druillard, N. H. “Elmshaven,” Sanitarium, California October 27, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister Druillard:
I have received and read your letter and I understand it perfectly, for we went through the same experience, my husband and I, more than once during our connection together in the cause. These experiences are profitable to us if we will be sensible and act in a way that will not imperil life and health.
(19LtMs, Lt 398, 1904, 1)
We do not forget you, not one of you. If I could relieve the situation, I would do it most gladly, but we can only pray that God will help you, and [we] believe that He will. Our hearts are wholly with you, and we have not the slightest doubt that the hand that has led you into strait places will lead you into wide places. I hope that those who can will help and encourage you and relieve the financial strain that must come upon you in this movement. You are in a hard place, but you have our fullest sympathy and I believe that you will gain valuable knowledge from this experience.
(19LtMs, Lt 398, 1904, 2)
I have not been able to sleep since one o’clock. I have written a long letter to Brother W. O. Palmer. I feel that he needs spiritual help, and I am instructed to encourage and help him.
(19LtMs, Lt 398, 1904, 3)
On our arrival from the East, we found Marian very low. The two weeks since our arrival have been weeks of great anxiety for us, but we were not able to relieve the poor child much. Her sufferings were not intense, but she would not eat. For the last week her strength was kept up largely by nutritive enemas. She died the day before yesterday. She passed away quietly without regaining the consciousness that she lost at seven that morning.
(19LtMs, Lt 398, 1904, 4)
The funeral was held here yesterday. We felt that we could indeed say with all our hearts, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord; yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.” [Revelation 14:13.] Thus indeed it will be in Marian's case. I shall miss her help greatly. As you know, she was with me for twenty-five years. But she is at rest, and I will not mourn, although I know that I have lost a true helper.
(19LtMs, Lt 398, 1904, 5)
I must stop now and get my writings together for Sara to pack. We leave here for Los Angeles tomorrow morning. We shall stop over Sabbath at Los Angeles, and then go on to San Diego.
(19LtMs, Lt 398, 1904, 6)
I shall try to write to you again soon. With love to you and to Brother and Sister Sutherland, and those at Madison.
(19LtMs, Lt 398, 1904, 7)
Lt 399, 1904
Medical Missionaries Nashville, Tennessee June 1904 Previously unpublished. To Our Medical Missionaries:
We have a special message to bear to the world, and all our medical missionary workers should be exerting an influence that God will accept. Their lives should diffuse the influence of the cross. A great interest should be shown by them in the extension of the Lord’s work. They should feel a deep sense of grief and humiliation as they think that many of the cities which have been kept before us for the last twenty-five years have not heard the message of present truth. There are heathen, as it were, right in our borders, in our large cities. But how few have a burden for these unwarned ones! How few are willing to invest their means in the work of enlightening them! Entreaties have been made, but many have listened to the counsel of men not worked by the Holy Spirit.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 1)
The members of the Christian church are designed expressly by God to live the Christ life, and to diffuse the influence of the cross. When this is done as God requires, Christian missions will furnish a striking illustration of the power of the principles of Christ. The wonderful efficiency of the cross will be seen and felt. The power of the love of Christ, “which passeth knowledge,” will be revealed. [Ephesians 3:19.] The kingdom of God is founded upon infinite love, compassion, and purity. In perfect obedience is found perfect joy.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 2)
All missionary successes have been gained by proportionate effort. By God’s ordained means we can work successfully, meeting and surmounting obstacles, standing steadfastly under Christ’s banner, refusing to fail or become discouraged. But when the Lord’s workers relax their devoted, persevering efforts, prosperity declines. The Christian is to make the great Medical Missionary his example. Then there will be seen in his work a purity, a righteousness, that will bring success.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 3)
Entire Christian consecration is needed now. Unless this is brought into the medical missionary work, human ideas will be followed, and evil influences will come in to sway things in accordance with the purposes of the enemy. Divine enlightenment is greatly needed at this time, for the perils of the situation are very great.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 4)
There are some who in the past have had a correct experience, but who have changed leaders. Not all, but many, have been beguiled. There are leaders who, before God can own and accept them, must first be converted and led by God. The beauty of His holiness is eclipsed by their unsanctified words and acts. They are strangers to God. They have no union with Him.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 5)
Those leaders who refuse to be led by Christ place themselves under the leadership of the evil angels. Some have already done this, and some, without severe chastisement from God, will never break the spell.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 6)
God does not own the work as it is now revealed in Battle Creek, and therefore it is unsafe to gather our youth to a school there.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 7)
When I first heard of the re-opening of the college in Battle Creek, I was in great distress; for I knew that this, if managed as some desired, would call many young people there, when God has given warning after warning that we are not to center in that place.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 8)
When Elder A. T. Jones connected with the work there, I understood that his work there would continue for one year only; that for one year he would take the Bible classes, and teach clear, decided, testing truths, and that at the end of the year, his work there would be done. I said to him, “Dr. Kellogg does not understand the real groundwork of our faith. Many of those who have been educated in Battle Creek need to learn the alpha of present truth.”
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 9)
Can we, with the present showing, advise our youth to obtain their education in Battle Creek? No! “I will turn and overturn,” saith the Lord. Not all the leaders in Battle Creek are safe, reliable men. God is not leading or teaching them. Those who have had message after message, and yet have not heeded those messages, do not know the value of the knowledge that maketh wise unto salvation.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 10)
I have received plain instruction that unless Dr. Kellogg is converted, we cannot sustain him. He will imperil our youth, and his influence will lead away from truth and righteousness. In the past I have withheld much, hoping that he would search the Scriptures and see his danger. But I am now to advise our people not to be drawn into Battle Creek.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 11)
You who have seen our youth lose their Christian experience and go into infidelity in Battle Creek, can you answer the question, “What will it profit a man if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.] What line can sound the depths of the ruin of one soul? Who can weigh the eternal weight of glory and bliss that every soul saved will surely enjoy?
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 12)
God forbid that one word of encouragement should be spoken to call our youth into Battle Creek, to be leavened by the misrepresentations and falsehoods regarding the testimonies, and the work and character of the ministers of the gospel.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 13)
I have been given light that unless Dr. Kellogg becomes a changed man, he will become Satan’s decoy to seduce souls away from the truth. At times he will work to undermine the confidence of those in whose minds he can plant seeds of doubt and questioning. The light given me is that he hates the testimonies of reproof, and will refuse to follow the light given him by God to direct his feet in the right way.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 14)
My message will become more and more pointed, as was the message of John the Baptist, even though it cost me my life. The people shall not be deceived.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 15)
We cannot advise our youth to go to Battle Creek to receive their education, when the Lord is calling them away from Battle Creek, that they may be taught what is the truth for this time. That which has been said in regard to Living Temple, and its seducing sentiments is not overdrawn. The presentation made in this book is a seductive one. The influence of some of its theories will be to close the minds of those who receive them against the truth for this time.
(19LtMs, Lt 399, 1904, 16)
Lt 400, 1904
Hall, Lucinda St. Helena Sanitarium, Cal. April 7, 1904 Previously unpublished. Dear Sister Lucinda Hall,
We are now preparing to leave our pleasant home one week from next Monday. We meet W. C. White the next day at Los Angeles. We shall have ourselves packed in the tourist car, in the center if possible. I shall go, trusting in the Lord, in one week or less. We shall be in Washington without change of cars if the Lord prospers us.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 1)
I wish you could see our place now. Large cherry trees in blossom full of encouraging presentment of abundant fruit. The prune trees are full of blossoms. The weather is beautiful. We rode out with Sister Whitney and her daughter Jenny, and they enjoyed the scenery very much, but I had an ill turn yesterday. They were here to take dinner with us, but I had to keep to my room. I cannot tell what was the trouble, but I could not eat and felt sick all over; retired at eight o’clock, slept until 12, awoke, felt better but did not dare to eat except a cup of nuttose preparation, and ate a limited dinner today, but I have aroused myself to write a few lines to you.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 2)
We hope to see your face in Washington, and you can be a help to us in planning. We do want all the capabilities [of those] that have been over the ground. I hope to see you there. They tell us a house will be furnished for us when we get there. We shall not do as at first proposed—to take W. C. White’s family—for we know this would be expensive, and the car fare is about fifty seven and [a] half dollars, reduced rates. I do not take drawing room. We could not afford to pay this amount, so May and children remain in their home. Marian remains to finish the important book upon temperance. One worker remains with her—Sister Graham, an excellent, faithful Christian girl. Sister Nelson also remains to take charge of the ones we leave. She has a large flock of laying hens, and we have two cows giving milk—a little heifer two years and three months old [that] we valued by report to be of excellent stock, and, to our surprise, she has a calf—the prettiest little thing—and the mother gives from nine to ten quarts per day. I am raising her calf. I have two beautiful jersey calves, and they are more than one year old, and two jersey stock—one, one week old, the other one month old.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 3)
We have fruit to be cared for and we shall not spend the winter in the east unless the Lord indicates this is our duty and the work and cause of God demand that we attend to things in Washington with our brethren who are carrying the burden of the work. If we return previous to the cold weather setting in there, we will have our things all prepared for winter. We shall then return, if the Lord will, and come home by the Southern route, and we can call at Los Angeles and San Diego and see what the climate is there for winter. But Mountain View has the best climate and the best advantages for the printing office and the most wonderful site for a school, giving great advantages for the agricultural and various kinds of industries to be carried on.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 4)
We must settle as fast as possible, for time is short, the end is near, and every evidence is that we shall have stormy times before us, and we would get out of the cities and establish ourselves in the very best locations possible. Mountain View is not a city, only a settlement of few homes—a town, we should call it—but has all the city conveniences. Here we think our Healdsburg school should locate and become a school of the first order. We want to be ready to lay hold of every advantage possible to make a quick work in training our best in our schools to prepare workers.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 5)
I went to Healdsburg and spoke only twice Sabbath and Sunday—Sabbath, the first of the meeting, and Sunday at the close of the meeting. The citizens of Healdsburg sent in a request for a meeting appointment Sunday afternoon at three o’clock and Mrs. White speak at that hour. The house was full, crowded, and I had been sick all through the week, having taken a severe cold, and took treatment, the heaviest kind, for the [cold] during the week. It was a weak, feeble woman that arose to speak, but the Spirit of the Lord came upon me, and I had a message for those assembled, from Revelation chapter 1 [and] chapter 2. The Lord strengthened me and the people expressed the greatest satisfaction, I am told.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 6)
Next morning we were on our way home around by Petaluma by cars and ferry boats, and, although the rain poured down the whole week, all were much encouraged with the meeting. I have not been well since that sickness but I shall go to Washington, if the Lord wills, starting next Monday. Clarence Crisler, Maggie Hare my chief worker, Willie and Sarah and Dores Robinson, will follow later. Now this is a great undertaking for me. We intend to be at the meeting at Berrien Springs at the time appointed. So now you know what we will attempt to do. We will meet you soon.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 7)
In love.
(19LtMs, Lt 400, 1904, 8)
Lt 401, 1904
White, J. E. and Emma Nashville, Tennessee [June 1904] Previously unpublished. Not sent. My Children, Edson and Emma,
I am very sick and I may not survive this attack. I feel intensely over many things that will be experienced in your work. If you could withdraw from the work now and leave it in the hands of those who have had so much criticizing to do, and who have made it a science to hinder the work, the Lord would give you other work in places where there are not so many pull-backs. You may be assured ways will open before you in Southern California that you could take hold of and not endanger your life.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 1)
When for a short time the heat would be oppressive, there are cool places that you can remove to and labor, but there is a large class of tourists that are to be managed, and there is need of organized efforts to take hold of these matters, to work judiciously and study how to meet the people where they are. You must not be confined to the work and struggles you have been carrying, for your brain nerve power will not stand this. You have had one shock of paralysis, and I have not now one word of encouragement to say, “Stay where you are.” You can do much better work if your mind is not constantly stirred up upon disagreeable subjects, and this field, I have been shown, must be worked. Men must come in and generalship be given. You are not to take this whole thing upon yourself. You could get a home in some place that will be more favorable for health and life. The Lord does not require you to sacrifice your life.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 2)
The colored question is to assume a more serious feature than now presents itself. That field, which has been opened before our American people since the release of the blacks from slavery, has been kept open, and yet how little has been done. The diverting of the donations called for has been a serious matter with those who have done this, but you are not to dwell upon this matter and all that was comprehended in it, for the result will be, to the actors in every phase of injustice, such as you would not care to see. God calls for His people to unify. There will be a most decided increase of wickedness demonstrated among the blacks, and no less among the white people who do not keep the law of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 3)
My children, you are now at an age when trouble of the disagreeable kind which you have had will tell on you and hurt your experience, [your] body and your mind. There is opened before you the Southern California field, which is to be worked, and you can adjust yourselves to the situation of climate. There is much to be thought of in this—who will take right hold of the Southern [California] field and improve, in Los Angeles and San Diego and Santa Barbara and all these fields, the work to be done for unbelieving tourists—much more than is now being done.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 4)
There should be sanitariums in Los Angeles and in San Diego. I have not given up the idea of a building in San Diego that we may have, but the Lord knows all about this. In Santa Barbara there should be a well-equipped sanitarium, and this means schools will be there. Well, these fields are opening. I see all the way along the line to St. Louis, New Orleans, to Memphis, Washington, and to the work all along these lines.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 5)
Edson, the state of the Huntsville school is so pitiful because the situation is forbidding, but the men who have tried to do any work have not been helped, and some large, broader minds need to come in who will take a rational, Christian view of the situation, who have the heave-e-o-heave in them to venture to plan in the Lord’s way and not call upon some who have planned backward and not forward. Houses might have been built. In the cities of the South little work in a right spirit will lead to larger work. Houses will be offered for sale, and there is work to be done on every hand.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 6)
I must present these matters before you, for you must not breast the difficulties that may arise. I feel deeply over these things and am unable to sleep nights. I feel so used up, and I see nothing ahead. If I do live and you keep in the South, my distress of mind will increase rather than decrease. I hope you will move wisely and pray, oh, pray much, that the Lord will manifest Himself and teach all how to work.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 7)
But Edson, there is a grand work to be done in Washington. And there is need of men that will carry the work forward with determined effort. Now all these Southern fields are to be fields that call for determined effort. Washington has been an opening that the Lord has made for those who embrace the South to have places to worship. This vexed color line can and will be adjusted if the people will be true to their Bible principles to be kind.
(19LtMs, Lt 401, 1904, 8)
Lt 402, 1904
Ballenger, E. S. Nashville, Tennesee June 22, 1904 Previously unpublished. Not sent. Dear Brother [E. S.] Ballenger,
I write [to say that] everything possible should be done to make wise efforts in obtaining property in buildings that are for sale. Such buildings will be on the market and it will be best to purchase them, for the Southern California [field] has been greatly neglected. The work that should have been done as a strong influence in favor the truth, with a strong company raised up in one place and in another, must not wait with the plea “Have your money in your hand before you begin to extend your work in purchasing many homes.”
(19LtMs, Lt 402, 1904, 1)
We are compelled to walk out by faith, trusting in the Lord. A work is to be done in Redlands, and a decided work in Riverside and in various places near Redlands. Now is your time. Begin at once and work. The human agencies have had this work before them for years and have not put on the armor and done what they could do, but delay no longer. Carry temperance upon your banner and work and have seasons of prayer. There are places near Redlands that are to be worked. The Lord will be pleased to have men push the triumphs of the cross in Southern California, [men] who will put the armor on, who will make earnest efforts in faith. God help us to go forth in faith and enter new places.
(19LtMs, Lt 402, 1904, 2)
Lt 403, 1904
To the Leaders in the Southern Californian Conference Nashville, Tennessee June 23, 1904 Previously unpublished. Not sent. [To the Leaders in the Southern Californian Conference:]
I speak to the working forces in Southern California with my pen. I have some things to say to you. I was beholding the situation that has presented itself for some years in Southern California. There is no hope for success in the future unless there is a decided change in the working men. They have gone decidedly contrary to the light God has given in several things, and I am not surprised that you are in a state of perplexity.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 1)
I was in conversation with Elder Santee and Elder Healey, and these were the two prominent ones who have devised, and Bro. ______. There were several that have held the work back in not following the counsel God has given. [You] placed great confidence in your own individual supposed capabilities and were not willing to connect with, to advise and counsel with, brethren who could have helped you had you had humble hearts to unify and not wanted your identity to be strikingly developed. From the light God has given me, if you wish to work in the Southern [California] Conference you can do individually a good work in your own appointed sphere, not [with] any one man [acting] as a whole sufficiency and getting your minds so high to do by your individual selves that work which should be divided with your brethren after consultation. To every man God has given his work.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 2)
Just as surely as you shall work in this line to consider you can carry things to a success in following your own plans, a heavy debt will rest upon the school faculty that will be a heavy burden to other interests to lift. The Lord is not pleased with your methods, piling up debts, of which you are so sanguine. We deeply regret that the wisdom you exercise is more human than divine. Your constant jealousy of other schools having the preference is working up a division of sentiment that will leave upon others an impress not agreeable to be worked out. I am sorry, so sorry in heart, that Elder Santee and Elder Healey are so united in having and carrying their own plans irrespective of the healthful outcome. These plans they have originated make me sorry in my soul, for I have been shown the outcome.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 3)
I am sorry that a heavy debt will be accumulated and other important advancements will be retarded because of this unwise management. Why will you encourage a spirit of jealousy and evil surmising? Why will you do this? You will leave a most difficult problem for some others to have to carry, and also to settle the debts that with clear eyesight and intelligent devising never need be.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 4)
Brethren Healey and Santee, you have linked your interest together which should not be, and I am so sorry, Brother Santee, for you to place that confidence in Elder Healey’s manner of devising and carrying things, for it will surely bring future perplexity upon the Southern [California] Conference. Elder Healey’s disposition is of that character that he will magnify his own plans, although directly opposed to the light the Lord has given as to the right way and how to carry His work. Elder Healey stands directly in our way, and if he thus blocks the work, the Lord will be dishonored. Those who are struggling with all their force to establish the work that the Lord has laid out must be done, to establish interests in important places that have not been worked, I know will have to meet with this erratic course in Elder Healey again and again. Yet he will not be cured.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 5)
The Lord has presented before me he should not be united as an influence in our sanitariums or schools, for he will ever seek to be a controlling power, and the Lord will not vindicate his plans or propositions. The man needs to be converted and to consider that others have a right to means. If he would be humble to follow God’s plans, then there would be a different showing. The Lord will not accept his ideas that Elder Healey’s mind is as the mind of God, for it is oft placed in opposition to the mind of God, and I am charged with a work I dread. It is to guard the people of God from this disposition to carry things his way when it is opposed to the way of the Lord. I am charged to warn our brethren that shall follow the leadings of the Spirit of God to not be moved aside to Elder Healey’s suggestions, for these suggestions will, if received and carried out, hinder the work of the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 6)
Truth will triumph if the Lord is trusted to be our Leader, but if, in the institutions which shall be developed, Elder Healey is to act an official part, the work of God will be retarded. Therefore I am to watch and give the note of warning when Elder Healey shall place his opinion so as to rule the body. When the man possesses the spirit of meekness, willing and anxious to understand the will of the Lord, he can minister in word and doctrine. There is to be a work done all through Southern California, but it will not answer unless he takes his place as a learner as well as a teacher, for he is in constant danger to work his own mind until he wearies out the men in office. As my messenger, you are to stand to not allow the people to be deceived. Self, self, self is the obstruction to many things.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 7)
Elder Santee has been led and his mind controlled by Elder Healey’s many words and self-assured wisdom, and it must not be permitted, for the work of God has been retarded for years by the ideas and workings of Elder Healey. God is not glorified by his spirit and his ways and his manner of carrying the work. It is God who has ordained that the truth shall sanctify the heart, that there shall be unity expressed. I say the truth in love: Unless Elder Healey shall change his own spirit and his own judgment, he will seek to warp the carrying of the work, to endanger its prosperity. He will keep these ideas in front and will present them as the best plans, and if it does not carry the first time, he will present them again and again, which is a wrong course to pursue. For this reason he is not to be allowed to carry our conference in Southern California according to his mind. The Lord forbids the spirit to prevail that presses to the front his own oft selfish plans, to accommodate some plan of his own devising. I am to say to our brethren in Southern California, Watch and pray and heed the warnings the Lord sends. You, Brother Burden, must be on guard. That man who will plan a course of action that creates in the school a debt of thousands of dollars for the conference to settle is not following the Lord’s plan.
(19LtMs, Lt 403, 1904, 8)
Lt 404, 1904
Paulson, Brother St. Helena Sanitarium February 1, 1904 Previously unpublished. Not sent. Dear Brother Paulson,
I am hoping to see you, but may not. I expected to go in two or three months to visit Battle Creek and Berrien Springs, but a heavy draught has been upon me, calling out an intensity of feeling, watching at the right hand, watching at the left, daring not to keep silent in regard to the course of J. H. Kellogg. The door is left open for Satan to come in and he [Kellogg] become as a man that was once in the faith years ago, but has not been in the faith for many years. He has need of doing a most thorough work which I have given up all hope that he will do while his brethren hold him up. At the same time, he is by word of mouth deceiving them, [saying that] he is so thoroughly transformed that he is a man that has been blind and recovered his eyesight.
(19LtMs, Lt 404, 1904, 1)
When I see such things as permitting The Living Temple to come into favor by men of experience, accepted and ... [unfinished].
(19LtMs, Lt 404, 1904, 2)
Lt 405, 1904
Arthur, Brother NP Circa late 1904 Previously unpublished. Not sent. Dear Brother Arthur:
I wrote you a few lines this morning, thanking you for your letter. We see much to do in this period of the world’s history. There has been, I understand, a call made for a meeting of our ministers and officials to Battle Creek to consider important matter, but I think we sent you a copy of the letter written. The men in the field cannot be called from their important work, as they have been time and again, to spend precious time to amount to nothing. Dr. Kellogg is surely unbalanced in mind, and our brethren should see this and not receive everything he presents as that which is truth. He deceives his own soul and then, through his masterly sophistries, he bewilders the minds of others by his continual talk, talk, talk, early and late.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 1)
It is Satan’s theories that are now coming to the front from the lips of Dr. Kellogg. He is lost and has been lost for a long while in the misconceptions that he has long cherished. If he had walked humbly with God, he would have stood on vantage ground.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 2)
In the providence of God, you were present to hear, I think, written matter [read] in the sanitarium at St. Helena, and the talks in regard to the danger to the whole cause through his constantly seeking to carry out his own devising in regard to the medical missionary work, the ministry, and the sanitariums, all binding up to Battle Creek—which God forbids.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 3)
He has not been set over the ministry or any [other] lines. He is not appointed for any such work. Nor is he, as one man, to control the medical missionary work and sanitariums as he has taken it upon himself to do, because one man’s mind and one man’s judgment is incapable to do this work. Dr. Kellogg must himself be under the control of the Holy Spirit of God and himself be taught of God, else he will surely lead the people of God into false paths. He is not a man well-balanced in religious principles. He is not a man versed intelligently to carry the work.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 4)
This was the representation given me, and I had the burden at that gathering to present the matter before you and all present. You were convinced that I spoke under the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Nothing was in my words; but the Lord gave the words. I shall, if I can, take time to hunt for the very matter talked at the meeting. The Lord gave the message for your benefit. Dr. Kellogg was taking responsibilities and lifting burdens that would spoil him in more ways than one. Dr. Kellogg has not manifested an earnest desire to know, What will God have me to do? Asking of God, with a heart submissive to learn of the Great Teacher, would always have been to his advantage and is essential to every soul who walks with God as humble, obedient children. But oft it has been that Dr. Kellogg has followed his own counsel, his own preferences, and in his plans he has oft been shortsighted and made grievous blunders.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 5)
Understanding this, it would have been altogether wise for him to be as willing to hide the mistakes of his own brethren as to cover his own errors. But the time has come when it must be known how the Sanitarium stands. What is its showing? How much money has been invested? How much has it advantaged this new Sanitarium—the general workings of sanitariums? We have come to a period, (and it has been specified by the One who owns every sanitarium), for all to give account of the stewardship, that everything may now be arranged on a proper basis. This need not require that all responsible men shall be called to Battle Creek who have had no special hand in its running. Now is to be ascertained the true standing of one of the Lord’s institutions that has had invested in it the talents of God entrusted to men to use to His name’s glory, not according to one man’s ideas. This Sanitarium must now be understood in its true relation to the cause and future working. What is its true bearing? What is its future work? Who is to stand in the responsible position to determine what shall be its future history? To delay this business is not wise.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 6)
God calls today to Dr. Kellogg, Whose talents have you been using? This is the work that the Lord would have entered into and not stand in uncertainty. The Lord would have all His institutions open as the day, but not to unbelievers, for God forbids anything of this work. God’s denominated people have a deep interest in the Sanitarium and have a right to know all his workings. The time has come for things to be made plain and clear. Dr. Kellogg has now a work to do. He cannot be acknowledged as a safe teacher for our people. He has given heed to seducing spirits.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 7)
Shall our people have an influence exercised in various churches to draw men and women to Battle Creek? I have had the case opened before me so distinctly that I saw from the light given there is not to be a drawing of people to Battle Creek. Dr. Kellogg. needs a most thorough conversion himself. He is not fit to control. The larger the number drawn and centered in Battle Creek, the more will a demoralizing influence come in, because Dr. Kellogg stands as supreme, and he has lost his balance. God has specified his appointed work as His physician, and by in engaging in the manufacture of food and commercial business, [for which] he has not been appointed by God, he has put his neck under a yoke God has not asked him to wear, and he will meet with loss.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 8)
My brother in Christ Jesus, I speak now to you and the medical fraternity. Keep your integrity. Let there be no entering into any species of devising to rob the cause of God of any facilities that is its due [so that you may have means] to open new fields and engage in an aggressive work that is not after the Lord’s order. I was referred to the institution in Mexico. There is something from the beginning of its establishment that is not after the Lord’s order. Yet that institution has been brought before the world in a false light, as doing a great thing, a great work. This has been misrepresented.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 9)
I say to Bro. Arthur, Let not any man sway your mind to do an unjust action. This will be in a singular manner urged upon you by Dr. Kellogg and his special associates. I saw him bending over books with you, and evil angels were at work through him, for he is not true and to be relied upon. For your soul’s sake, Judge Arthur, do not allow complications that need not be to make an intricate case more intricate. Dr. Kellogg has taken on himself to patent right the Lord’s goods to be under his control, and the Lord has been greatly dishonored in this action.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 10)
Now, if this Sanitarium has become entangled as it is because Dr. Kellogg has not been a faithful, wise steward, then let not the cause of God suffer at this time. All the time that has been diverted from the true issues is time lost. Warning after warning has been given to Dr. Kellogg to unload, to give himself to the legitimate work he should do. To fasten himself to an apparently endless car and flourish about like a man who has lost his mind does no good to the cause of God, nor will it make error or injustice truth and righteousness. I had many things presented to me that were not revealing the truth but raising a false flag of colors.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 11)
The Lord is not pleased to have all His institutions under the doctor’s control; he has defects in character. God’s cause is not to be left strengthless, moneyless, and now His Sanitarium crippled. Unfair means will be resorted to to get away from the true issue. Now, my brother, this institution was mismanaged by Bro. Dan Jones. He was not in a condition to manage himself in any institution, and his spirit and his character of work the Lord will not approve in any man. If Dr. Kellogg is blinding your judgment, because it is Dr. Kellogg, God calls upon you to stand in your integrity if it cost you your life. Men have been bought and sold in many such transactions of trade with men who were buying and selling land. These real estate agencies the Lord has opened before me, and there is a long list of false dealing and money taken from men and women. They have been made poor by the transactions, and the Lord has shown me case after case who have ruined their own souls by these transactions. From the light given me their education in this line has so much unfair dealing, falsehood, and robbery that anyone who claims to be a church member is first to renounce this kind of business of speculation and causing so much suffering to human beings. They are not to be placed in church membership.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 12)
Some have been placed in leading positions in the church who have received an education that was continually unfitting them to enter that city whose builder and maker is God. The medical fraternity, I have seen, was sick and needed a physician higher than any earthly skill can furnish to heal them of their wrong transactions. The record book in heaven will tell every transaction. I now, as God’s servant, tell you to break up your relationship with Dr. Kellogg. If possible, take your wife and family and move to California. But do not sell your soul to do an unfair action. All connected with that sanitarium in Mexico is wrapped up in papers that no one will want to bring to light; and there are many such things that have been done that God has condemned. Read Micah 6. This chapter testifies the mind of God. I shall only warn you to be guarded. If you have placed things in an uncertain light to do injustice to one soul, the Lord Jesus says, “Ye have done it unto Me in the person of my saints.” [See Matthew 25:40, 45.] We are now brought into terrible perplexities. Sanitarium after sanitarium has become loaded down with debts. Shall these institutions [be] tied up with the commercial work brought in so largely of the food enterprise? God did not place this upon Dr. Kellogg, and his mixing in this matter has been a mistake. His work, the Lord had signified, was to act as His physician. As a physician he was not to embrace such commercial business. The Lord is not honored or glorified. The Holy Spirit of God is misrepresented, and I am so sorry. May the Lord God reveal Himself and place His stamp so definitely upon that which is right that Dr. [Kellogg] will come to his senses is my prayer.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 13)
*****
A scene in Battle Creek was presented before me. W. C. White was being interviewed. Dr. Kellogg and some of his associated physicians were present. I have had some things presented before me that have been Dr. Kellogg’s way but not God’s way. Dr. Kellogg has done much to present many things before the minds of the medical fraternity in the spurious light he views them. He keeps talking, talking to his associates, reining their minds up to certain ideas and certain things he wishes them to consent to carry; he makes his associates believe he is right when through his own course of action he would bring disaster to the cause of God. Angels true to their duty were in the company, and evil angels were also present. There was a voice of dissent that could not harmonize with the sentiments and principles that were outlined to be carried.
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 14)
One who has authority was represented as standing apart, and solemn words were spoken, “If ye love me, show that love by keeping my commandments. And I will pray the Father and He will give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever. You will decide yourself, by your own course of action, if you will be placed on vantage ground, but you are now on false ground. As a party you are sustaining yourselves with theories that closed the gates of heaven against the rebellious, [acting] as though you were in the narrow road and passing through the strait gate that I have traveled before you. You are not there. When you are in the narrow road cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in, the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him, [will come]. But all who keep my commandments know Him, for He dwelleth with you and shall be in you. And I will not leave you Comfortless. I will come to you, because you walk in obedience. Come out from the world and be separate. In bringing yourselves into harmony with the world you, even this company, have divorced yourselves from Me and agreed to take the side of the world in methods of dealing in temporal and in religious things. You cannot possibly expect the world, who have not a connection with God, will have correct judgment in regard to their own duty or in regard to the duty of any human being. Those who love My commandments understand their obligations, hopes, faith, and privileges.”
(19LtMs, Lt 405, 1904, 15)
Lt 406, 1904
Magan, P. T.; Sutherland, E. A. NP Circa 1904 Previously unpublished. Not sent. My Brethren Magan and Sutherland,
I have some things to say. There is something you will have to learn. All your methods in manner of education need not be stereotyped and given to teachers in Berrien Springs. All minds, Brother Sutherland, are not cast in the same mould. Should another attempt to do just as [you] try to do, they would make a failure. Unless you broaden, my brother, and give other teachers just as good a chance to act their own convictions as to your manner of teaching, you will wear out minds by keeping them too long upon special lessons. The mind must be relieved. Your mind may be able to exhaust the matter by being confined to specialties.
(19LtMs, Lt 406, 1904, 1)
When you shall leave Berrien Springs, students will come under teachers just as intelligent and thoroughly prepared to do their work, but they are not to adopt your methods. In some things your specialties will need to be changed. Your mind worked in a certain line and theirs are not adapted to work in that line. They would make a failure. Let the Lord work in His way. It is not these special routines, this exact manner, that will make a success. There are varied minds and special methods of study. The mind cannot and should not be kept on a routine of precision. One method of study is not the best for all minds. One mind can adapt itself to a certain line, another to [a different] line.
(19LtMs, Lt 406, 1904, 2)
I cannot now recommend your precise studies be marked out, [what] to you is very marked out, considered superior. That should not be, must not be, outlined for the teachers who are left at Berrien Springs to take in. The teachers in the school should not receive the idea that they must, in teaching, carry out your plan. They have their methods. When I have specified that the work in schools is to be left with the teachers who have experience as well as yourself, you are not to dictate to them that they shall follow your precise line, for it may be you are the one who will have to change. We must not line out how another teacher may do his work.
(19LtMs, Lt 406, 1904, 3)
If Bro. Haughey carries the responsibilities of the school, he must have freedom to work the school according to his own intelligent judgment, seeking wisdom of God. You will have to guard yourself in this respect to give others an opportunity to be worked by the Holy Spirit of God. The more any man is taught by the Holy Spirit the nearer he approaches to perfection and the growth of Christian character. The more constantly the human agent seeks wisdom of God, the more he beholds [God] from the Word, [the more] does he become changed into His image, and his own ideas become conformed to the likeness of Christ.
(19LtMs, Lt 406, 1904, 4)
I never, never can be inclined to have any human agent step in the path Dr. Kellogg has taken—which some are ever inclined to take—that all his plans are to be the only perfect plan. This is a very great mistake. Every soul has an individuality of his own. Unless every human agency carries himself with decided watchfulness and prayer and full conformity to the will and ways of God, there will be, as there has been, great mistakes made, and walking in darkness and sorrow. We have too narrow a conception of the grace of God that bringeth salvation. There is an education Christ gives to all who will follow on to know the Lord.
(19LtMs, Lt 406, 1904, 5)
Everyone who submits his will and his way and wears the yoke presented by Christ will understand His words, “Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me.” More freedom is theirs. “Take my yoke upon you,” saith Christ, “and learn of me, and ye shall find rest to your soul.” [Matthew 11:29.] I believe that God will give you His grace. It is your privilege, brethren, and your positive duty, to look to Christ. He is your Teacher and is just as willing to teach you if you ask Him, or to teach another to teach you. Only look and live. Drink in the display of His grace, His loveliness and sufficiency. Make all things bright and joyous. We want to take hold with you. We are to be a strength and support to each other. All individuals have not the same precise methods.
(19LtMs, Lt 406, 1904, 6)