Letters
Lt 2, 1910
Haskell, S. N.
St. Helena, California
January 10, 1910
Previously unpublished. +
Elder S. N. Haskell
Box 597
Oakland, California
Dear Brother Haskell:
I received a letter from you evening after the Sabbath. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 1)
Of late I have been in poor health. There seems to be upon me an influenza that makes it difficult for me to write as I would like to. My eyes trouble me, and there is a pain at the base of my brain. For many nights I have slept but little and have risen early in the morning. Yet I will not complain; for the Lord sustains me remarkably. My heart is fixed on the Saviour. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 2)
I feel an intense interest that the work of God shall break its bonds. I desire to see broken every yoke that has been put upon the Lord’s servants, yokes that have prevented many of them from acting in harmony with the light the Lord would give them. My work has been much harder than it would have been, had all our brethren acted in harmony with the instruction given in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. I sometimes feel sick at heart when I consider how the work has been hindered by men who are eager to use authority. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 3)
The Lord has strengthened me in a remarkable manner during the last year. At the General Conference in Washington, a plain message was given me, and the Spirit of the Lord gave me power of utterance. I know that the message borne in Washington was a message of truth. In Boulder, in Oakland, and also in other places, I have borne a similar message. I could not hold my peace, but, standing on my feet in weakness, the power of God rested upon me as I appealed to the people. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 4)
The power of God rested upon me when I last spoke in Oakland. When I called upon the people to consecrate themselves to God, and to become laborers together with Jesus Christ, so far as we could see, every one in that crowded church rose to his feet. My heart was deeply moved as I offered prayer in their behalf. I wished that they might sing, “There are angels hovering round.” I am so grateful to God that He gave me strength to speak to the people in Oakland. Let the heart be humbled with a sense of the greatness and the importance of the work that we have to do. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 5)
I am instructed to say, Let the converting power of God rest upon physicians, upon ministers, and upon conference officials. As a people we are far behind where we might have been, had our brethren in positions of responsibility always walked in the counsel of God, instead of assuming an arbitrary authority that has greatly retarded His work. There should now be an entire change based upon thorough conversion. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 6)
“Thus saith the high and holy 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. For I will not contend for ever, neither will I be always wroth: for the spirit should fail before Me, and the souls which I have made. For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid Me, and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart. I have seen his ways, and will heal him; I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him, and to his mourners.” [Isaiah 57:15-18.] (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 7)
Let every yoke now be broken. There is a most solemn work to be done in seeking the Lord. I have not lost the spirit of the messages that came to me in such power. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 8)
I have just read your letter regarding the work of Prof. Owen. Notwithstanding the fears and suspicions of some of our brethren in regard to his ability, I am not sorry that I have helped him by a small donation. We must have faith in God and be careful how we hold back because of our unbelief those whom the Lord can use in His service. It is a sad thing to doubt a man’s truthfulness. There may have been some circumstances that would lead to doubt, yet the doubting side is not profitable. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 9)
Be of good courage in the Lord. Stand fast in truth and righteousness, whatever you may have to meet. Rest in the Lord. Talk faith; talk hopefully, and let the soul repose in the words of Christ, “Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.] Let the light of truth shine forth in clear, distinct rays. Let us lay hold of the arm of Infinite power and rest in the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 10)
I tell Willie that I do not know as I shall be able to attend the important meetings that are soon to be held in Mountain View, but the Lord can strengthen me at the right time. At times when I lie awake in the night, I pray, and lay hold by faith of the words, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] (25LtMs, Lt 2, 1910, 11)
Lt 4, 1910
Kress, D. H.
St. Helena, California
January 13, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in Ev 544-545; CME 42; KC 168. +
Dr. D. H. Kress
Dear Brother Kress:
I have received your letter and will now write a few words in reply. I have no desire for you to be in any place, except where the Lord would have you. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 1)
My mind has been burdened in behalf of the large cities of the East. Besides New York City, where you labored last summer, there is a important city of Boston, near which is situated the Melrose Sanitarium. And I know of no place where there is a greater need for a rebuilding of the first works then in Boston, and in Portland, Maine, where the first messages were given in power, but where now there is but a little handful of our people. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 2)
The light given me is that there should be a binding about of the work at Takoma Park, and that destitute places must be worked; for there is a world to be warned. There is danger in gathering too many responsibilities in one place. To those who are planning to do great things in Washington, I would say, The name does not make the place. Already in Washington there is the school, the sanitarium, and the publishing house. If our brethren unduly enlarge the work in Washington, there will be more than they can handle, and there will be called to that place more workers who should be proclaiming the truth in needy fields. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 3)
Our leading brethren have need of a deep working of the saving grace of God. Read and understand the sixth chapter of Galatians. Unless the converting power of God comes into our institutions in a most decided manner, there will be a sad state of things. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 4)
There is danger, my brother, of your becoming too anxious and of making your own plans. You must guard against following your own inclinations. Do not be anxious lest you should not stand in the highest place. Such a trait is not best to be developed. The Lord requires that every man shall stand in moral accountability to God and to his fellow men. I have not a word to say to hinder you from following the guiding hand of God, but I beg of you to bear in mind the neglected cities. The Lord God of Israel is calling for these cities now to be worked. Results will be seen as an interest is created. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 5)
The truth of the Word of God is free. One who is a physician and a religious teacher will find a work to do that will result in the salvation of souls. The form of sound words in religious teaching, sustained by a “Thus saith the Lord,” will have a saving influence. A physician can so express himself that he will be invited to speak before various companies and will be received. As a teacher, a physician can watch his opportunities; for the Word of God is to go freely. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 6)
Those who will enter our large cities to labor as medical evangelists must begin their work in a very wise way. Angels of God will make the impression, and, under the hallowed influence of the Holy Spirit, hearts will be touched. The words of the speaker bringing the form of sound doctrine into actual contact with [the hearer will result in] the saving of souls. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 7)
There is a great work to be done, and it will be cut short in righteousness. As Christ’s ambassadors, we are to come under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, learning our duty and our doctrine from the Word. Parents and children, masters and servants, employers and employed, we have a message of truth to bring to the people. The whole heart must be consecrated to God for Him to mold and fashion after the divine similitude. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 8)
I present before you this great and grand work, but I will not urge you. I leave you with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Walk only in His requirements. The Lord help us to walk in the way of all His commandments. Let us dedicate ourselves unreservedly to God. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 9)
If the Lord spares my life, and directs me to the work, I will leave my home and take up the work in some of the neglected cities, even though I never see my home again. When the Life-giver comes, He will know where to find me, and with joy I shall meet my Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 10)
I will now close this epistle, praying that the Lord may abundantly bless and guide you. (25LtMs, Lt 4, 1910, 11)
Lt 6, 1910
White, J. E.; White, Emma
St. Helena, California
January 15, 1910
Previously unpublished. +
Elder J. E. White
1713 Cass Street
Nashville, Tennessee
Dear Children Edson and Emma:
Of late I have had so many things to read over in preparation for printing in articles and in book form that I have hardly found time to write letters. And my eyes are troubling me so that I can use my pen but a little while at a time. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 1)
I do not sleep as many hours during the night as I wish I might. The other night I slept none after twelve o’clock. The reason I am so wakeful is because my mind is so active. I am thinking and planning how we can open new fields and introduce the important light that we have into cities where as yet little has been done. I can only bear my burden, urging that new fields be opened. They must be worked, if we are to do our duty. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 2)
My soul is deeply stirred as I see so little earnest, determined continual effort to get the truth into our cities. We have but little means to spare with which to push the work. Often I lie awake for hours, praying to my heavenly Father to open the way, in order that the truth may be introduced into our cities. I am instructed that time is passing rapidly, while we are making but little advance in the work of warning the cities. We have a precious treasure of saving truth to impart to those who are ready to perish. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 3)
I tell our brethren that when they enter the unwarned highways and byways, there will be souls who will respond, and as the interest increases, ways will be opened. Halls will be offered, and our speakers will be invited to come in and speak words that will create a deeper interest. We cannot expect that means will be provided unless something is done to present the truth in our cities. There is a work to be done that has not yet been done to reach the people where they are. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 4)
When all our people, presidents of conferences, teachers of schools, physicians, and Christians everywhere who have ability shall show a decided interest in the work, then something will be accomplished greater than anything we have yet seen. Why do we not appoint more meetings where we may diligently seek the Lord? By denying ourselves, we might find time to come to meetings to seek God. We need to have a revival of our faith. Satan is certainly obtaining advantages. We are spiritually too weak. We need individually a revival of zeal for God and His cause. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 5)
Let us remember that Satan has many agencies at work, counterworking the purpose of God. The Lord understands this, and we must come into a sacred nearness with Him and into unity with one another, that we may co-operate with heavenly agencies and thus thwart the purposes of the enemy. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 6)
Christ is the Bread of life. In Him we may find the waters of salvation. The Lord is working, and Satan is working. Who are awake to their duties? Where are the faithful, wholly consecrated laborers who are making it their lifework to be faithful stewards of God? Faithful stewards there are, and yet in the lives of many there is too much of unconsecrated self mingled with the operation of the special agencies God has given for the proclamation of the message. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 7)
The Lord has favored us with advantages in connection with our sanitarium work; and yet in this there is revealed far too much of unconsecrated self. When the whole being of every laborer is regarded as the Lord’s property, then men in responsibility will have their perceptions sanctified, and they themselves will be converted daily. The Lord is waiting to have the consecration offering of soul, body, and spirit bring the workers into harmony with Himself. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 8)
Our schools are to be refined, purified, sanctified. The end of all things is at hand. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 9)
These are the burdens that keep me awake night after night. I am tied at home because of the severity of the weather. At my age, it would be unwise to expose myself, and I dare not be imprudent. I expect to attend the meetings of the Pacific Union Conference to be held at Mountain View next week; and the following week in Lodi, the session of the California Conference. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 10)
In my last letter I wrote you of my efforts during the week of prayer in Mountain View and in Oakland. The Lord especially blessed me during the Sabbath afternoon meeting in the Oakland church. The church was crowded to its utmost capacity, and a power rested upon me, as it rested upon me at Washington during the General Conference. I urged the people to make a decided effort to draw nigh to God, to seek the Lord while He may be found. We must have our hearts drawn out to God to pray in faith and do all we can to arouse our people in the churches. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 11)
I asked for a response from those who would pledge themselves to seek to put away their wrongs, and to confess their sins, who would pray fervently for the Holy Spirit’s power and grace to overcome as Christ overcame in their behalf, and who would read and obey the Word. I think that all in that crowded church rose to their feet. Then while standing I presented the congregation to the Lord in prayer. I know that victories were gained in and through Jesus Christ. A holy influence was manifest. Angels made a faithful record of every sincere surrender of self. May the Lord honor the pledges then made to devote soul, body, and spirit to the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 12)
I should be much pleased to see and converse with you. I hope that you are well. And I hope that it may not be as cold in Nashville as it has been here. I find that during this season of the year, it is well for me to stay in the house near my good fireplace. Here in this valley we are saved from the most severe weather, but we have had heavy frosts, and a few times our water pipes have frozen, though we have as yet had no snow. Children and even many adults are suffering from severe colds. For myself, I find that eucalyptus and honey relieves me when my throat is sore, and I am inclined to cough, or if I feel any hoarseness. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 13)
We have plenty of wood, and therefore we can be comfortable despite the cold weather. I feel much better when I can be in a room where there is an open fireplace. I am able to handle the chunks of wood and put them on the fire myself. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 14)
I suffer no pain in my body—at least no more than I must expect, at my age. I am surprised that I can go up and down stairs so easily. I praise the Lord with heart and soul and voice. My father often used to say, “What doth much increase the store?—When I thank Him, He gives me more.” I am so thankful for the grace of the Lord Jesus. My heart and mind are filled with gratitude and praise. I will endeavor to keep my lips clean and pure, that I may not dishonor God by murmuring. I desire to follow on in the straight path of self-denial and self-sacrifice. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 15)
May the Lord bless you and all who are trying to serve Him, is my prayer. (25LtMs, Lt 6, 1910, 16)
Lt 8, 1910
Brethren
St. Helena, California
January 13, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in Ev 79; 6Bio 270-271, 290. +
Dear Brethren:
This morning I have awakened at half-past twelve, and I feel a sweet peace and courage in the Lord. It seems to me that a great burden has rolled from me, and I am peaceful and happy in the Lord. I am free from every ache or pain. I am so thankful that Jesus is willing to help us. Should we not as a people be glad to be helped and strengthened, and to be brought into unity? (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 1)
This is my prayer, Remove from our ministers, our physicians, and the teachers in our schools everything that will gender the spirit of strife. We are none of us to have the spirit of exaltation. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 2)
I am very much pained when I see Christ’s example so little followed by those who have pledged themselves for the carrying forward of His work. Many that have accepted the truth need to be reconverted. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 3)
Many precious and important lessons are found in the words of Christ, as recorded in the gospel of Matthew, chapters four to seven. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 4)
“Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, He departed into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth, He came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the boarders of Zebulon and Nephthalim: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zebulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; the people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 5)
“And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And He saith unto them, Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:12-19.] (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 6)
“And seeing the multitudes, He went up into a mountain: and when He was set His disciples came unto Him: and He opened His mouth and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 7)
“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” [Matthew 5:1-12.] (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 8)
The Bible has been given us to study, that we may learn how to express the truths of the Word of God, which must be presented under all circumstances, as men who have been called and who have learned the truth from the great Teacher who left the royal courts to assume humanity, that He might become the divine Teacher to fallen men and women. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 9)
Our interested work in behalf of humanity is to follow the example of Jesus and to follow the specifications that He laid down, and the manner of life upon which He placed His blessing. A conscientious conformity to Christ’s way of working will bring men under His precious benediction. Study and study again the blessings promised to the meek, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and the poor in spirit. Read, and understand that each of us has a special part to act, and that we are to give evidence that we are children of God. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 10)
After giving the specifications of character that the children of God are to develop, Christ declares: “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” [Verse 13.] (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 11)
They who will practice the virtues of Christ’s character are to give light to others. “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.” [Verses 14-16.] (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 12)
Then follows the positive assurance that no transgressor having light upon the Word of God, and breaking that law, continuing in sin and transgression, will have a place among the blessed. “Think not that I am come to destroy the Law or the Prophets,” He declares. “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For, I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 17-20.] (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 13)
I am charged also to call the attention of our ministers and church members to the instruction given in the seventh chapter of Matthew. There are many who need to study this chapter most critically again and again. Let them study for their own enlightenment, and not to prove the supposed faults they discern in other church members. The defects pointed out in those whose thoughts are absorbed with the faults of others are very serious; and unless there are decided conversions, many who think that they are lights will prove to be stumbling blocks. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 14)
Some have been carrying responsibilities that they were not chosen of God to bear. Their defective words and works have created much confusion; for they were acting as did Judas. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 15)
When I returned from Australia, I saw that men had assumed a strange authority over the church of God. Some seemed to consider that if any official responsibility was placed upon them, they were to treat others as some unwise school teachers treat their pupils in school. Human teachers having position, supposed to be helpers to the churches, magnified their official authority as rulers; and this spoiled them as teachers and shepherds of the flock. They acted too much as worldly officials act. Those who dared to differ with them were not encouraged in their work. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 16)
It was a great surprise to me that the testimonies I bore, reproving this work of “lording it over God’s heritage” had so little effect upon those exercising undue authority. They seemed to think they were carrying out wisely their official responsibilities. This evil in our work must not be permitted to bear sway again. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 17)
The past experiences should be sufficient for every soul to know that position does not give the qualifications necessary to enable a man to rule his brethren. Ruling is not in the Lord’s order. We need to pray, and to watch unto prayer; we need to experience the deep movings of the Spirit of God and to walk intelligently before the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 18)
It will take much close, hard watching on the part of Conference officers, to uproot the spirit of self-exaltation. This must be done before the true character of their work is understood, and it is clearly seen that human wisdom cannot take the place of wisdom from above. Much more must be done to uproot fully the fibers of this erratic human power exercised as authority, as though it were the voice of God. I cannot feel yet that those who consented to this order of things are safe; for it has brought in many fallacies, and the flock of God is still in danger. It will take time to effect a complete reformation. As we seek the Lord by prayer, and take up the work as it presents itself to us, we shall eventually see an entirely different order of things. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 19)
Following the experience that we have had of the undue exercise of authority with its evil results, there should now be a strong, efficient counterworking effort. There is to be an increased force of working agencies in every part of the field. Let the laborers go out two and two, that they may work together in the many parts of our cities that have been left unwarned for a long time. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 20)
Regarding Elder Haskell’s future work, I dare not take the responsibility of giving advice. With proper helpers, Elder Haskell and his wife by the sustaining grace of God may continue to do an important work in the position they have occupied. There is to be an increased force of working agencies in every part of the field. If Elder Haskell feels that he is willing again to carry responsibility, I would advise that a wise-hearted minister be chosen to share his responsibilities. The experience and the knowledge gained in their past service has given to Brother and Sister Haskell an understanding of the work that will be a help to their fellow laborers and to the conference. (25LtMs, Lt 8, 1910, 21)
Lt 10, 1910
Workman, Brother and Sister [W. D.]
St. Helena, California
December 10, 1909
Previously unpublished. +
Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Workman
Dear grandchildren Mabel and Wilfred:
I would be pleased to see you both, but I do not wish to make you homesick. I am trying in every way to revive in the minds of our people our past history in a manner that will encourage a stronger faith. In doing this, we find that we shall have to meet difficulties, but these difficulties can be mastered. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 1)
Many perplexing problems will come before you, but if you will walk step by step in faith, you may both increase in confidence and in those characteristics which will constitute you laborers together with Jesus Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 2)
I hope you will write to me frequently, especially Mabel, my dear granddaughter, and tell me how you are getting along. I would be so pleased to see you, but I do not wish to make you homesick. I am writing by lamplight and find it difficult to get into an easy position to write. I am so thankful that the Lord continues to give me a clear understanding of the truth; and so long as my mind is clear, I shall continue to use my pen in calling the attention of our people to the serious importance of the times in which we live. Our faith must be centered in Jesus, who is the hope of our salvation. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 3)
January 19, 1910
We have just enjoyed a pleasant visit from Wilfred’s father. His father and mother and sisters are anxious that Mabel’s father shall make them a visit, and I shall try to go over some time. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 4)
We have been having some very cold weather. There has been no snow as yet, but considerable ice. We expect cold weather at this season of the year, but the winter has been more severe than usual. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 5)
Let us hear from you, Mabel and Wilfred. We are desirous that you shall advance in your work and studies, Wilfred, but there is such a thing as carrying the matter too far. My ambition for you both is that you may, right where you are, honor and glorify your Redeemer. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 6)
Why has God given us in the record of His work an account of the zealous work of the true followers of Jesus Christ? They labored with heart and soul and were animated and vitalized by the Holy Spirit. They had in view the glory of God. That which the Lord has done for His people in past ages, He will do for every soul that will earnestly follow Him. Let the light of truth revive and animate and strengthen nerve and muscle, that you may do His work intelligently and in the simplicity of true faith. That which the Lord has done for His people in using them to His name’s glory, He will do again. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 7)
Simple, trusting faith is what we need. We must intelligently work out our own salvation. Faith and trust must be increasing daily, reflecting light to the world. Let the meekness of Christ be cherished. Come inquiringly and hopefully to One ever ready to heal even your greatest afflictions and disappointments. Come to Him in simplicity and meekness, reverently seeking for that grace which our Saviour is ready to bestow. Cultivate a cheerful, confiding trust in God. Every one in whom is shining the light of present truth is to be divested of all selfishness, that by words of experience he may help those who need help and encourage those in darkness. In all humility you may receive the light, that you may impart that light to others. A work is to be done similar to the work done on the day of Pentecost. Then do not rest satisfied with a meager experience. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 8)
It is represented to me that the zeal of the church needs to be quickened. The zeal for the Lord’s glory of His covenant-keeping people should increase, that with such a zeal as moved the disciples, they may go forward and increase in faith and hope, asking, receiving, trusting, believing, and increasing in the true zeal that works by love and purifies the soul. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 9)
Christ said to His disciples, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Remember that you are to act in co-operation with Him in His work in the regions beyond. “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Consider the lessons of Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 10)
Truth, present truth is worth everything to the receiver. The whole world is the Lord’s vineyard, a portion of which is the cities and villages. Satan is not dead. Desperate efforts will be made to eclipse the light, that his false deceptive theories may be presented. But angels from heaven are commissioned to co-operate with God’s appointed messengers on earth. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 11)
Never speak words of unbelief. Keep humble, meek, and lowly in heart, and trust in the One who gave His life for sinful men, that they in turn might communicate His light and awaken in many contrite and humble hearts courage, hopefulness, and joy in the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 12)
I send you this message, and you may feel free to read it to others if you so desire. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 13)
With love, Grandmother. (25LtMs, Lt 10, 1910, 14)
Lt 12, 1910
Leaders in the Maine Conference
St. Helena, California
January 17, 1910
Previously unpublished.
To the Leaders in the Maine Conference
Dear Brethren:
The importance of the work in Portland, Maine, is kept before me. I am glad that a house of worship is being erected in that city. The Lord will be pleased if all our brethren in the Maine Conference will make a solemn covenant with him to work unitedly to complete this building. There are some who should use their influence to advance the work who have been under temptation because they were not consulted more with reference to the work. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 1)
To these brethren I am bidden to say, If you think that mistakes have been made, let not this become a cause of division. Let a unity of purpose and of sympathy be a strength and a help in the raising of the necessary means for the church building that is so much needed in the city of Portland. Some mistakes may have been made, but let not any who profess to believe the truth refuse to co-operate with their brethren who are struggling to erect this memorial. This work should be carried forward in righteousness and gladness, yourselves giving of your means and your influence to help to complete that which needs yet to be done. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 2)
Now is the time for those who think that some things have not been done just right to show themselves Christians. Let not the enemy use any one to hinder a work that should be completed without unnecessary delay. The Lord is not pleased with the course of men who, when an important enterprise is to be carried forward, stand back in the harness and refuse to lend their aid. The providence of God will be seen if all will come humbly to the feet of Jesus and seek to remove from their hearts anything that is objectionable. The God of Israel desires you to unite your prayers and let your work be prompted by hearts full of love and confidence. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 3)
The Lord does not require means of those who have it not to give. Poverty is not so great a difficulty in the advancement of the Lord’s work as is the manifestation of self. The living Christ alone can deal with the selfish dispositions of men who are determined to have their own way. The Lord is waiting to see self-esteem and self-confidence broken down. I beseech of our brethren to fast and pray, if necessary, till every difference be removed, till self be subdued, and there results a sweet spirit of harmony. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 4)
The Lord calls upon every soul to come into unity with their brethren, and to fit themselves for service in the Lord’s work, that the enemy may not be their master. Now is an opportune time to clear the King’s highway and to crucify self. Now is an acceptable time to correct weakness of character. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 5)
The message given me for our people is, “Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the Lord your God, and His testimonies, and His statutes, which He hath commanded thee. And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land.” [Deuteronomy 6:17, 18.] (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 6)
A new era is to begin for the Maine conference. While the old hands have struggled faithfully and have done what they could, in their old age and feebleness they cannot now accomplish all that needs to be done. It is for the glory of God that the work in Maine shall go forward with increased strength. Let not the older laborers feel hurt because younger and stronger men are now called to the front to act the part that God would give them. There is need of strong, spiritual workers to bear the burdens of office. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 7)
Let all now seek to discover and to remove the defects in their character. God requires every one to do his will under His guidance. Let each one faithfully perform his individual work, not refusing co-operation, even if the brethren have done things imperfectly. The work must blend in unity. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 8)
All the money on earth cannot buy the blessing of God. “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” [1 Samuel 15:22.] (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 9)
Into our daily practice we must bring sound doctrine. Under the reception of the Holy Spirit, no careless words will be spoken. We are to be sanctified by the truth. The requirements of God we are to regard, not as a cause of fear or dread, but as a means of sanctification through the Spirit; not merely as a law in its terrors, to be urged upon the mind, but as a mark of the divine love expressed by Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 10)
“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.] His love for sinners led Christ to take upon His divine soul the penalty of transgressors, and to bear their punishment, thus making it possible for the sinner, through the grace revealed in his behalf, and through repentance, to become partaker of the divine nature. The love, the pity, and the compassion of Christ is revealed in His entreaties and in His invitations, in the expression of His longing to bring every soul into unity with God. Yet the perversity of the natural heart often leads men to refuse the proffered blessing, and unconverted minds are steeled against the knowledge of the free salvation of God. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 11)
Many who profess to believe the truth are not genuinely converted, and they do not in their lives reveal the sanctification of the truth. They do not practice Christ’s love, Christ’s tenderness. His great sacrifice produces no thanksgiving. No expressions of gratitude flow from their lips. There seems to be no response from the heart, and there is not a revelation of the sanctifying grace of God. The truth of God, in all its sanctifying grace, would make them sweet in disposition, kind and true. But the grace of Christ has not molded and fashioned their entire being. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 12)
Whatever a man’s profession may be, he is not a Christian unless the grace of truth is appreciated and the example of Christ is followed out in words and actions. The question to be considered is, Has he, as a professed believer, submitted his will to the will of God? Our dispositions are to be molded by the truths that are given us in the Word of God. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 13)
“Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: Grace be unto you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.” (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 14)
“I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ: that in everything ye are enriched by Him in all utterance, and in all knowledge: even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: so that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Corinthians 1:1-8.] These words describe the condition of truly converted souls. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 15)
The Lord has seen fit to open before me some of the advantages of your having a good church building in one of the most beautiful sections of Portland. I feel anxious to do all in my power to encourage our churches to help in the enterprise. When our brethren in Maine, who should feel most keenly the burden of this enterprise, show that they are united in doing all they can to help the work forward, others may be found whose hearts are willing to invest means in the completion of the meetinghouse in Portland. We do not know where all the means is to come from; but if all will seek to act their part, God will vindicate their faith. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 16)
If God’s people had always been quick to recognize His dealings with them, the Lord would have made straight paths for their feet; but obstacles are not an indication that the work should not be done. The people of God anciently and in more recent years have been obliged to struggle through difficulties and discouragements. The old veterans of the cross experienced great hardships and trials in placing the work on a sure foundation. David learned wisdom from God’s dealings with him and bowed in humility when reproved and chastened by the Most High. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 17)
“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [Psalm 19:7.] We are not to give way to despair if the Holy Spirit points out to us our transgressions and our imperfections of character. God is powerful to save every repentant soul. The words of inspiration are given for our comfort. Even the patriarchs and apostles were subject to reproof because of their weaknesses, yet they took heed to the messages that came to them and through faith obtained a good report. They received the correction of the Lord, and He fought their battles for them. In His strength they conquered gloriously. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 18)
We are anxious to do what we can to help forward the work in Portland. The building of a meetinghouse there means much more than many suppose. Let all come into harmony, and let the world see what can be done by a few earnest Christians. The Lord, who knows the end from the beginning, will exalt the true heroes of the faith. (25LtMs, Lt 12, 1910, 19)
Lt 12a, 1910
Cottrell, H. W.
Mountain View, California
January 27, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in LLM 487-489. Extracted from Lt 18, 1910. +
Dear Brother [Cottrell]:
When a man in responsibility takes the position that it is his privilege to form opinions that he need never give up, no matter what circumstances may arise, and no matter what further light may shine on his pathway, that man is in grave peril of making mistakes. No man’s judgment is to be regarded as a safe and infallible guide. There is a certainty in sanctified submission to the will of God, and this is the only certainty that any man has the right to stand by. Any other position of certainty than this of humble submission to the will of God is unsafe and is liable to lead a man to lose his hold on God and mar his religious experience. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 1)
Many trials come to all who are called to engage in the work of God. Those who have the responsibility of locating and fostering our sanitariums and training schools need the advice and counsel of men of sound judgment—men who trust not in their own supposed wisdom, but who stand ready to advance by faith in the opening providences of God, and who constantly look to the Lord for wisdom and guidance.... (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 2)
Seventh-day Adventists have been set as watchmen and light-bearers in our churches everywhere and especially in the cities. As God’s people we have been entrusted with the work of saving souls. Upon us is shining wonderful light. In years past the first and the second angels’ messages have been proclaimed, and now the third angel’s message is being given to the churches that have fallen. The Lord is opening the way in a remarkable manner for His people to give the warning message to those who have never yet heard the truth for this time. No other work that we might do is as important as is this. The third angel’s message means much to us all. It means much to unbelievers also whether they shall receive and believe and live out this third angel’s message, which includes the other two messages of Revelation fourteen, and the proclamation of which makes prominent the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 3)
Solemn is the message we have to proclaim. As a people we should guard against anything that would hinder the progress of this message. With courage and unfailing perseverance, we are to bear the responsibility that has been placed upon us. Faithfully we are to warn the world, and exalt the Sabbath of Jehovah—that Sabbath which was instituted in Eden, observed by patriarchs, proclaimed from Sinai’s height, and emphasized at the time of the giving of the two tables of stone to Moses when “the Lord spake unto Moses, saying: (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 4)
“Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily, My Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto Me; every one that defileth it shall surely be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.] (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 5)
In this our age of the world, we claim to be, in a special sense, the Lord’s chosen people, as did Israel of old. And we are indeed the Lord’s covenant-keeping people, pledged by our baptismal vows to walk in newness of life and in obedience to all the commandments of Holy Writ. The Lord God of Israel is our God, whom we serve. Throughout the ages the Sabbath of Jehovah has lost none of its meaning. It is still a sign between God and His people, and will ever remain a sign. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 6)
Those who have the responsibility of locating and keeping in operation our sanitariums and schools are ever to bear in mind that these institutions are to be regarded as divinely appointed agencies for the restoration of the entire man—physical, mental, and spiritual. In planning for the establishment of sanitariums in places where God has designated we should do a special work, we are to allow no selfishness, no personal ambition, to mar the work. Over and over again I have repeated that the establishment and maintenance of sanitariums is ordained of God for the advancement of His cause in the earth. While Christ was on this earth, He ministered to the needs of suffering humanity. He is our example. We are to labor intelligently; and in planning for the extension of sanitarium work, we are to seek to secure the very places that God indicates are most suitable for carrying forward this line of our work. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 7)
In the providence of God, there come to this people in time of need favorable opportunities to secure valuable facilities that can be utilized wisely for the rapid advancement of the cause. At times the Lord has specified that we should come into possession of property in certain localities where we needed to gain entrance for the proclamation of the third angel’s message. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 8)
The idea that we are not to purchase any such properties unless first the money is in hand is not in accordance with the mind of God. Again and again in years past the Lord has tested our faith by opening the way for us to secure places, possessing advantages, at a cost far below their real value, and at a time when we had no money. We have at such times met the situation by borrowing money on interest, and advancing in harmony with the command of our divine Leader, who bade us advance in faith. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 9)
These experiences have been attended with many perplexing problems; but the Lord has helped us through them all, and His name has been glorified. Had we hesitated, the precious cause would have been retarded rather than advanced, and in many cases opportunities would have been given our enemies to triumph over our failure to secure these advantages placed within our reach. In such matters as these, we are to learn to walk by faith when necessary, as some have walked in the past. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 10)
Light has been given that it is best to establish our sanitariums outside the cities. Some of our physicians have spoken in favor of locating our sanitariums in the cities. It is difficult to understand why any one should plan to establish a large sanitarium in a city. The very atmosphere of the cities is objectionable. We must conduct our sanitarium work in places suitable for the recovery of the sick. The more attractive the surroundings, the better. In the gardens of nature the sick rapidly find something to please. Their thoughts are uplifted to the Creator. Let us thank God that so many of our sanitariums are established in pleasing country locations, and yet within easy reach of important centers of population, where there are many people to whom we are to communicate a knowledge of saving truth. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 11)
It is the favorable situation of the property that makes Loma Linda an ideal place for the recovery of the sick and for the warning of many who might otherwise never hear the truth for this time. It is God’s plan that Loma Linda shall be not only a sanitarium, but a special center for the training of gospel medical missionary evangelists. (25LtMs, Lt 12a, 1910, 12)
Lt 14, 1910
Our Brethren in Portland, Maine
St. Helena, California
January 20, 1910
Previously unpublished.
To our brethren in Portland, Maine:
I feel a deep interest in the work in Portland, Maine. The Lord gave me special evidence that in our efforts there during the camp-meeting last July, angels of God were co-operating with us. The Spirit of God was in our meetings. The Lord gave me a message to bear that deeply moved the people. Elder Farnsworth, Elder Haskell, Elder Edmed, and others were also blessed in their ministrations. (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 1)
I am instructed to say to you that the Lord will work with our people in Portland if they will walk circumspectly and in humility of mind before Him. The work in Portland is to be established and advanced, but there must be a humbling of heart with those who labor in that place. There must be a meek and lowly spirit. Let no one place in himself unlimited confidence and think that his individual ideas are surely right and that his plans must prevail. (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 2)
I would say to the believers in Portland, Now is your time for an advanced move. Let self be hid with Christ in God, and He will work for you. The Lord desires His truth to be firmly established in Portland. The house of worship that is being built is to be appreciated. I earnestly desire that every soul who has a part to act in completing the work on the Portland church building shall be united with heavenly agencies. Let them seek a daily conversion and consecration. Let them pray in faith, and move guardedly, humbly walking before the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 3)
Let all our brethren in the Maine Conference now renew their covenant with their God—the older ministers and also the younger workers connected with them. Those who have grown old and worn in service know the way of the Lord; and if they maintain their integrity, God will honor them in their declining years. (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 4)
I know the financial condition of the brethren in Maine, but I ask them to do all they can to lift the debt on the Portland church. If they do this, others may be induced to come to their assistance. I have felt free to solicit help for the Portland church building in some of the places where I have spoken. In some places, others were presenting calls for help; or the church itself was bearing a heavy burden, and I thought it best not to urge the members to do more. But I have been able thus to raise a few hundred dollars and hope to receive additional sums as I speak in other churches. (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 5)
“Hear O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord; and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” [Deuteronomy 6:4-7.] (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 6)
May this first church erected in the most beautiful city in the state of Maine be a place where the message shall be given in wisdom and in righteousness. Let these words be read to the believers there: (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 7)
“Thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God; the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto Himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. The Lord did not set His love upon you because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people; but because the Lord loved you, and because He would keep the oath which He had sworn unto your fathers, hath the Lord brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 8)
“Know therefore the Lord thy God, He is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love Him and keep His commandments to a thousand generations; and repayeth them that hate Him to their face, to destroy them; He will not be slack to him that hateth Him, He will repay him to his face. Thou shalt therefore keep the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which I command thee this day, to do them.” [Deuteronomy 7:6-11.] (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 9)
In the city of Portland the messages of the first and second angel were given in power by William Miller, Joshua Himes, Josiah Litch, and others. The time has come when the third message is to go with power in Portland and in other cities of the East. I rejoice that in some of these centers suitable church buildings are being secured as memorials. I shall pray that the Lord may impress the minds of His workmen, that they may be led to engage earnestly in the work of proclaiming the warning message in our large cities. The watchmen must be aroused. Our cities must have the proclamation of the threefold message. A great work must be accomplished from the East to the West. Men who know the truth are to go forth as a lamp that burneth. Let every soul who can, engage in work in the cities just now; for delay will increase unbelief. God is calling for the cities to be warned of His soon coming. (25LtMs, Lt 14, 1910, 10)
Lt 16, 1910
Managers of the St. Helena Sanitarium
St. Helena, California
January 10, 1910
Previously unpublished.
To the Managers of the St. Helena Sanitarium
Dear Brethren:
In the night of January 1, I was thinking of many matters. I seemed to be speaking to some of our brethren at the sanitarium, saying to them, This is the first day of the new year 1910. If during the past year some duties that should have been performed have been passed by, it is your privilege now to make the work as thorough as possible. (25LtMs, Lt 16, 1910, 1)
Have our brethren at the sanitarium settled their obligations to Sister Gotzian? If not, they should not rest till the matter is healed and she has received the means of which the sanitarium has had the use for so long a time. The necessities of other more needy enterprises appeal to her, and she desires to obtain the means that she has invested here, that she may help in opening the work in new fields. It is best that she should be permitted to appropriate her means as she desires. (25LtMs, Lt 16, 1910, 2)
Two nights before this, I saw Sister Gotzian with a troubled and perplexed countenance. She would not tell me the reason for her perplexity, but others told me that she was troubled because there had not yet been a final settlement with her on the part of the sanitarium. (25LtMs, Lt 16, 1910, 3)
My heart ached as this matter was presented before me, and I was unable to sleep more that night. Sister Gotzian placed her means in the institution years ago in its time of need; and now that other calls are made to open institutional work in needy places, and the work at St. Helena is in a prosperous condition, it is but right that the money should be returned to Sister Gotzian without delay. (25LtMs, Lt 16, 1910, 4)
Lt 18, 1910
Cottrell, H. W.
Mountain View, California
January 27, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in PC 305-306; 6Bio 282. +
Elder H. W. Cottrell
Dear Brother Cottrell:
I am instructed by the Lord to say to our brethren and to you that it is not the will and mind of the Spirit of God that your brethren should place you in positions of large responsibility, while you determinedly maintain your own ideas; for these ideas are not all correct, and the Lord will hold our people responsible for pursuing a wrong course. It would also be doing an injury to yourself to sustain and uphold you in wrong decisions that have been made. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 1)
I am instructed by the Lord to advise our brethren to choose some other man to stand in your place as president of the Pacific Union Conference. This would make it less difficult than otherwise for you to put away some traits of character that are not Christlike. In your present state of mind, it would not be a blessing for you to have to remain in positions of large responsibility, as this heavy burden would place you in situations where you would be strongly tempted to have your own way and would make it increasingly difficult for you to overcome objectionable traits of character. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 2)
I feel sorry to say to you, my brother, that you have grieved the Spirit of God, and we cannot at present feel clear to ask you to continue in the position you have filled in the Union Conference. In some respects, you have not been a wise counselor and leader. You have taken upon yourself heavy burdens that the Lord has never called you to bear. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 3)
When a man in responsibility takes the position that it is his privilege to form opinions that he need never give up, no matter what circumstances may arise, and no matter what further light may shine on his pathway, that man is in grave peril of making mistakes. No man’s judgment is to be regarded as a safe and infallible guide. There is a certainty in sanctified submission to the will of God, and this is the only certainty that any man has the right to stand by. Any other position of certainty than this, of humble submission to the will of God, is unsafe and is liable to lead a man to lose his hold on God and mar his religious experience. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 4)
Many trials come to all who are called to engage in the work of God. Those who have the responsibility of locating and fostering our sanitariums and training schools need the advice and counsel of men of sound judgment—men who trust not in their own supposed wisdom, but who stand ready to advance by faith in the opening providences of God and who constantly look to the Lord for wisdom and guidance. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 5)
I am hurt to the heart and soul and mind. The traits of character, my brother, that you have manifested at times leave us no choice but to counsel the brethren not to place upon you heavy responsibilities, the carrying of which would give you but little time in which to reflect. The Lord has helped you many, many times in the past. He has richly blessed you in your labors; and He now stands ready to help you to overcome these objectionable traits that have been developing, and strengthening, as you have endeavored to carry burdens that the Lord has not called any man to bear. The Lord desires to fit you for continued usefulness in His cause, to the glory of His name and the salvation of many precious souls. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 6)
Seventh-day Adventists have been set as watchmen and light-bearers in our churches everywhere, and especially in the cities. As God’s people, we have been entrusted with the work of saving souls. Upon us is shining wonderful light. In years past, the first and second angels’ messages have been proclaimed, and now the third angel’s message is being given to the churches that have fallen. The Lord is opening the way in a remarkable manner for His people to give the warning message to those who have never yet heard the truth for this time. No other work that we might do is so important as is this. The third angel’s message means much to us all. It means much to unbelievers, also, whether they shall receive and believe and live out this third angel’s message, which includes the other two messages of (Revelation 14) and the proclamation of which makes prominent the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 7)
Solemn is the message we have to proclaim. As a people, we should guard against anything that would hinder the progress of this message. With courage and unfailing perseverance, we are to bear the responsibility that has been placed upon us. Faithfully we are to warn the world and exalt the Sabbath of Jehovah—that Sabbath which was instituted in Eden, observed by patriarchs, proclaimed from Sinai’s height, and emphasized at the time of the giving of the two tables of stone to Moses, when “the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among His people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-17.] (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 8)
In this our age of the world, we claim to be, in a special sense, the Lord’s chosen people, as did Israel of old. And we are, indeed, the Lord’s covenant-keeping people, pledged by our baptismal vows to walk in newness of life, and in obedience to all the commandments of Holy Writ. The Lord God of Israel is our God, whom we serve. Throughout the ages, the Sabbath of Jehovah has lost none of its meaning. It is still a sign between God and His people and will ever remain a sign. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 9)
Those who have the responsibility of locating and keeping in operation our sanitariums and schools are ever to bear in mind that these institutions are to be regarded as divinely appointed agencies for the restoration of the entire man—physical, mental, and spiritual. In planning for the establishment of sanitariums in places where God has designated we should do a special work, we are to allow no selfishness, no personal ambition to mar the work. Over and over again I have repeated that the establishment and maintenance of sanitariums is ordained of God for the advancement of His cause in the earth. While Christ was on this earth, He ministered to the needs of suffering humanity. He is our example. We are to labor intelligently; and in planning for the extension of sanitarium work, we are to seek to secure the very places that God indicates are most suitable for carrying forward this line of our work. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 10)
In the providence of God, there come to His people, in times of need, favorable opportunities to secure valuable facilities that can be utilized wisely for the rapid advancement of the cause. At times, the Lord has specified that we should come into possession of properties in certain localities where we needed to gain an entrance for the proclamation of the third angel’s message. The idea that we are not to purchase any such properties, unless first the money is in hand, is not in accordance with the mind of God. Again and again, in years past, the Lord has tested our faith by opening the way for us to secure places possessing advantages at a cost far below their real value and at a time when we had no money. We have, at such times, met the situation by borrowing money on interest and advancing in harmony with the command of our divine Leader who bade us advance in faith. These experiences have been attended with many perplexing problems; but the Lord has helped us through them all, and His name has been glorified. Had we hesitated, the precious cause would have been retarded rather than advanced, and, in many cases, opportunity would have been given our enemies to triumph over our failure to secure these advantages placed within our reach. In such matters as these, we are to learn to walk by faith, when necessary, as some have walked in the past. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 11)
Light has been given that it is best to establish our sanitariums outside the cities. Some of our physicians have spoken in favor of locating our sanitariums in the cities. It is difficult to understand why any one should plan to establish a large sanitarium in a city. The very atmosphere of the cities is objectionable. We must conduct our sanitarium work in places suitable for the recovery of the sick. The more attractive the surroundings, the better. In the gardens of nature, the sick rapidly find something to please. Their thoughts are uplifted to the Creator. Let us thank God that so many of our sanitariums are established in pleasing country locations, and yet within easy reach of important centers of population where there are many people to whom we are to communicate a knowledge of saving truth. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 12)
It is the favorable situation of the property that makes Loma Linda an ideal place for the recovery of the sick and for the warning of many who might otherwise never hear the truth for this time. It is God’s plan that Loma Linda shall be not only a sanitarium, but a special center for the training of gospel medical missionary evangelists. (25LtMs, Lt 18, 1910, 13)
Lt 19, 1910
Starr, Brother and Sister [G. B.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
January 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear Brother and Sister Starr:
I have written you a letter, but I cannot find it. I have had so many letters to write, and I think I know just where they are, but they are not to be found. (25LtMs, Lt 19, 1910, 1)
I am much pleased to read your letter and to learn that you are at Melrose. Elder Starr has written me that you have been advised to take your position in Melrose. This I subscribe to heartily. (25LtMs, Lt 19, 1910, 2)
I have felt very sad. I would like to hear in regard to your opinion of the place. I have felt heartsick every time I have thought of the place and was so relieved when I heard you and your wife are to be in Melrose. I have been working constantly in writing and preparing matter to be republished. I expect you will visit Portland and the place called Deering’s Oaks, near where our meetinghouse is erected. (25LtMs, Lt 19, 1910, 3)
I shall be so glad to meet you again. We expect sometime to meet you when the cold weather is past. We received your letter of invitation to visit you. I could not come East until cold weather is over. I hoped that Brother and Sister ________ would unite with you, and maybe they will. I hoped you could both unite in your labors. Obedience is better than sacrifice, and to hearken is well pleasing to God. (25LtMs, Lt 19, 1910, 4)
Lt 20, 1910
Kress, D. H.
St. Helena, California
February 9, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in Ev 390; KC 169.
Dr. D. H. Kress
Takoma Park Station
Washington, D.C.
Dear Brother Kress:
I have received your letter and am sorry that you are in perplexity over what I have written to you. I have looked over again my letters to you, and I do not feel free to say more than I have already said. This it is not necessary for me to repeat. You, with your brethren connected with the Washington Sanitarium, must arrange the details in harmony with your knowledge of the situation. I have given you the best light that I have, and it will now be appropriate for decisions to be made by the brethren who are on the ground and who have an understanding of the situation. (25LtMs, Lt 20, 1910, 1)
The Lord will assuredly guide you if you will seek to do His will, even though it should interfere with some of your desires and plans. As you walk and work in the counsel of God, doors will be opened before you of opportunities for uniting the work of the ministry and that of a physician. (25LtMs, Lt 20, 1910, 2)
If in the city of Boston and other cities of the East you and your wife will unite in medical evangelistic work, your usefulness will increase, and there will open before you clear views of duty. In these cities, the message of the first angel went with great power in 1842 and 1843, and now the time has come when the message of the third angel is to be proclaimed extensively in the East. There is a grand work before our eastern sanitariums. The message is to go with power as the work closes up. Portland, Maine, a city that has been foremost in temperance reform, is to be worked without delay. If the laborers will act under the Lord’s direction, the Lord will work with His devoted servants. (25LtMs, Lt 20, 1910, 3)
I have not said anything or written to our brethren anything to lessen your influence. You have had all that I have said regarding your connection as physician in the Washington Sanitarium. Let the Lord lead and guide in all these matters. The planning of man is not always the way of the Lord. Let no one lay plans, and then think that the Lord must work to those plans. He that knows the end from the beginning will work for your own best good. If He calls you to another work than that you have been doing, it is only because you can better accomplish His will in some other line of work. (25LtMs, Lt 20, 1910, 4)
Lt 21, 1910
Butler, Brother and Sister [G. I.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
February 16, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Lodi Meeting and School
Dear Brother Butler and Wife, whom I respect in the Lord:
I have read your letter. Thank you for writing. We have had strength to attend both the conferences in Mountain View and Lodi. These were important meetings to which I was called out to bear my testimony. The Lord sustained me in a remarkable manner. The weather was extremely cold, but nevertheless I stood before the people and spoke to a crowded house. I feel no weakness of age when on my feet addressing the people. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 1)
I spoke at Mountain View four times. The Lord gave me matters which they needed to have. There is constant danger in grouping together in large companies, and this deprives other needy sections of the light they should have. Why cannot our people understand that the lamp must be placed where other parties can see and understand and be benefited with the light? (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 2)
I am unable to sleep but a small portion of the night. I am giving the message the Lord has given me, that we must draw nigh to follow the light given of God. “Speak the words I shall give thee.” This I try to do. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 3)
I spoke all of one hour four times both in Mountain View and at Lodi. The latter place was crowded, but a fire was kept up in the stove. I think the people cannot take in the precious things contained in the message the Lord gives me. Human nature cannot endure the intense cold in the open air; but when all their garments and outside clothing are on, the fire should not be kept in the stove. The Lord gave special messages. I had perfect freedom, and the Lord did give me His Holy Spirit both in Mountain View and Lodi. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 4)
The school subject was the difficulty—how to manage so large a number as at Lodi. I have written out some things upon this point, which I will place in print. At Lodi I asked those who had listened to the appeal under the influence of the Spirit of the Lord if they would consider that the Lord was speaking His message to them individually through His humble servant. Here was a large school to be carried. Would they, in most earnest prayer and determined effort, seek the Lord day after day? The Lord would certainly work with them, if students and the principle of the school would devote themselves to the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 5)
Parents in no case should neglect to act their part interestedly in their homes, to learn of the Lord Jesus and act in concert with Christ in their home life. In educating their children to be obedient and submissive, they can help the teacher who has so large a number. And if those who act as teachers, especially the preceptor, know that they have the parents helping the scholars to become students of Jesus Christ, the Lodi school will have the watchcare of angels and the preceptor can enjoy his work as instructor to the students. Let all, both teachers and students, come up to the help of all the parties united in the Lodi school. The preceptor and the under teachers, all acting as if chosen of God and under His guidance, can be a great help and a blessing to each other. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 6)
Trials and difficulties will arise; but if you all consider that the Head Teacher and Manager, Jesus Christ, who gave His life, is in every school that is taught, that you are doing your work in His sight, and that He is taking account of the preceptor and every helper, all will be united in excellence of behavior to gain a precious experience in the preparation for the school above. They will now have their opportunity to consider whether they will be prepared to graduate to the higher school in the heavenly city in the courts above. There Christ will walk with those who have formed perfect characters and lead them and teach them and guide them where there will be no tempting devil, but where all is without a taint of sin. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 7)
I must come back to speak again of the school at Lodi. In the night season instruction had been given me that the Lord Jesus will help every soul who is striving to perfect a Christian character. I asked all of that crowded company if they would renew their covenant to work in unity with the teachers for their souls’ interest, to make special efforts to obtain victories daily. We are to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. I asked parents, teachers, and children to rise to their feet. I think all did rise up. I feel deeply for that large school at Lodi. We hope that standing pledge to serve the Lord will be kept. We closed that meeting with prayer. I felt that the Lord Jesus was in the assembly. It seemed to me that Christ was close by my side. This was the last time I spoke to them. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 8)
I was taken in the automobile to the place where I had been welcomed to remain during the meeting. I felt that my duty was done. But I had a message to give to the instructor standing at the head of the school. I have words I must write to him to guard himself zealously and not be deprived, neither deprive students, of the pure air in the schoolroom, for to do so is dangerous business. We must have pure air to breathe and put on wraps if necessary. How much longer I must carry this catarrhal difficulty, I know not. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 9)
I have been instructed that Lodi needs the special strength that cometh from above. All need the Lord Jesus Christ to be their Helper. Teachers and students are all to unite in a decided, special effort to make this a model school. Parents in the home need to consider that while in this life they are to be members of Christ’s school, in one school with their children. With their children they are now, just now, to give themselves unreservedly to God, to make in the home life a record far exceeding anything they have done in the past, that they may stand faultless before God, because no sin is upon the soul, no defects in the character. Let it be your lifework to overcome, for all who shall enter the heavenly courts above are to have not a spot and not a wrinkle upon the character. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 10)
I wish all parents could understand this as it was presented to me. Time is altogether too short to give our attention to worldly enterprise to the neglect of the heavenly. Special instruction was given to me that if we are to have a home in the heavenly courts, our great aim and constant endeavor must be to seek by beholding Christ and studying Him who gave His life for us, to receive the image of His character here below; for Satan will work with determined effort to multiply his temptations to obtain the victory. All these things are kept before me to give to every church I shall visit. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 11)
That night I had presented to me that I must instruct the preceptor of the school to be on guard. I was to say to him, Appoint the older and more experienced students, young men and young women, to help the preceptor. The younger students could be benefited by having the older ones appointed as out-of-door sentinels who, without abruptness, and in a manner not to create opposition, would remind them that no coarse, rough manners will be allowed in their association with each other out of school. Let certain ones kindly remind them that the Lord is looking down and beholding their words and their actions; and that they are having the privilege of preparing for the transfer to that heavenly school above if they will learn the ways of the Lord in this lower school. Let these monitors maintain a gentle and persuasive manner, and this will take a great burden from the teacher. After a reasonable time, let the monitors have relief; and let others take their places to see that no indecorous behavior or actions shall dishonor the reputation of the school. These out-of-door monitors must have wisdom to know how to manage, that the preceptor may know that he may be relieved. This will be a help to the younger class as well as the head teachers. All will be striving to be overcomers. This arrangement, if wisely conducted, will take a great burden from the preceptor. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 12)
Now I shall present to all schools this instruction: The first chapter of Second Peter, verses 1-13. Here is your eternal life insurance policy. All who practice these things, who study the words I present, shall have the eternal life insurance policy fulfilled in their life character here below and have their entrance into the kingdom of God. Our schools must come up on the highest grade possible, and the children must be educated to correct behavior. Let this be practiced in every school. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 13)
I thank the Lord I was enabled to bear the hard strain upon me at Mountain View. Then the cold weather coming on, with the overheating of the church, and the impure atmosphere I was compelled to breathe and take into my lungs has created for me a serious time of catarrhal difficulty. I have not yet recovered. The many breaths poisoned the atmosphere for me, and ever since I have had the affliction of catarrhal difficulty that I have not had for years. I write these particulars, that you may all understand that the atmosphere, poisoned with the many breaths, had unfitted me to speak, except once last Sabbath; and I found it more difficult than common, for I was weak and could not speak as I usually do. I write this that you will not, in any place, allow such a thing to imperil life. (25LtMs, Lt 21, 1910, 14)
Lt 24, 1910
Ford, S. H.
Sanitarium, California
March 17, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Mr. S. H. Ford
Room 11
619 Hastings Street
Vancouver, B. C.
My dear Brother:
I am instructed to keep before our people the necessity of walking in meekness, and of depending wholly upon the Lord Jesus Christ for overcoming grace. There is no safety for any one, unless his will is yielded fully to the will of his heavenly Father. Then the truth will be spoken in all its efficiency and power from human lips. Just as surely as those who desire to be Christians shall fail of walking in all humility before the Lord, those with whom they associate will not make straight paths for their feet. The Lord will be with us, so long as we walk in humbleness of heart before Him, ever seeking to attain to a higher Christian experience, growing in grace, increasing in faith, advancing in experience. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 1)
We each have a character to form after the similitude of the divine. Christ is our pattern; and as we strive to imitate the divine example, we shall increase in faith, in purity, in a knowledge of God and of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. And as we follow on to know the Lord, the divine knowledge we receive daily will enable us to become pure and undefiled, and strengthened with spiritual vigor. Faith, kept in exercise, is the substance of things hoped for. Those who look unto Jesus in order to obtain strength and help will obtain a pure and undefiled experience as the sure result of exercising faith in His saving power. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 2)
If those who claim to be followers of Christ make Him their dependence, they can overcome through the grace that He proffers them. He will enable them to carry forward His work intelligently, in the simplicity of true faith. Day by day they will experience a strength that is above all cheap commonness—a strength that will help them to do valiantly on the Lord’s side. They will learn that they can overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony, and attain unto purity and the beauty of holiness. They will overcome by looking with the eye of faith unto Jesus, their Saviour. By beholding, they will become changed into the likeness of the Divine. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 3)
Two great powers are now on the field of battle. Satan, who at one time stood next to Christ in the courts of heaven, has become the adversary of man. Before the fall of Lucifer, he aspired for the supremacy that had been given to Christ, who was one with the Father in the government of heaven. There was war in heaven, and Satan and all the rebellious angels he had deceived were overcome. Those who had opposed the will of God in appointing Christ as the chief ruler were cast out of the heavenly courts, and since that time they have been warring against the Most High. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 4)
In this age of the world, when the end of all things is at hand, Satan is making a special effort to obtain victories. But every tempted soul may find a refuge in Christ Jesus. Every human being whom God has created is invited to take his stand on the Lord’s side and is promised overcoming grace. Ever since the fall of Satan, there have been two parties in the world, the sinful and the righteous; and we are to identify ourselves fully with those who serve God. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 5)
I received your letter and will write briefly in reply. We need every jot and tittle of your ability, refined, purified, and on the Lord’s side. Let not a jot of your ability be given to the enemy, in working counter to Jesus Christ, who gave His life a sacrifice for the saving of every sinner who chooses to cease from sin and become one with Christ and the Father. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 6)
Oh, that Christ’s workers would show their appreciation of His infinite sacrifice, by choosing to follow him faithfully! To every soul is given the opportunity of choosing whom he will serve. I urge you, my brother, to come into unity with Him who gave His life for your redemption. The Son of the Highest suffered crucifixion on the cross of Calvary in order that you might become pure and holy, and be saved, eternally saved, through the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony. Choose to win the crown of the overcomer because you accept of the great sacrifice the Lord Jesus has made in your behalf. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 7)
You speak of making me a donation of money. I have need of means now, while my life is still spared, to place new books before all nations, tongues, and peoples. I am working with all my capabilities to present to the world the precious things the Lord has given me. I would be very grateful to you for your assistance in this line. I have hired some money, rather than to delay this work. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 8)
I am sending you copies of the books Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing. When our training schools were in debt, and means were not forthcoming to relieve the situation, I pledged the Lord to give the manuscript for the book Christ’s Object Lessons, in behalf of our educational work, in order that, through its sale, means might be brought into the treasury to cancel the debts on our schools. I paid my workers who had helped to prepare the manuscript for publication, and then I relinquished all claims on any royalty that might otherwise have accrued from its sale. This was my donation to the cause, at a time when our educational work was facing a crisis. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 9)
The managers of our publishing houses published this book without any profit to their offices, and the brethren and sisters in the different churches gave of their time to sell it to their friends and neighbors. Many thousands of copies were sold, and between two and three hundred thousand dollars came into the treasury, to be applied on the school debts, and to assist in educating worthy students. Many of our schools were largely benefited, and some were entirely freed from debt. Not a dollar of the income from this precious book have I appropriated for myself. All has been a gift to the cause of God. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 10)
The book Ministry of Healing has been prepared especially for use in behalf of the interests of our sanitariums throughout the world. All our denominational medical institutions have the privilege of selling as many copies of this book as they wish, for the benefit of their institutional work; and from such sale I receive no financial returns. A large edition has already been distributed, and plans for the circulation of many thousands more of Ministry are now being carried out in various parts of the field. I have given to our sanitariums, as a freewill offering, the privilege of using Ministry of Healing in this way, without any royalty returns to myself. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 11)
As our sanitariums and other institutions have multiplied, I have frequently supplied these centers of training and influence with a library of all my publications, free of charge. I have also had the privilege of helping to meet the expenses of some students in training who were unable to meet all their obligations. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 12)
I will gladly accept of any freewill offering of means you may wish to place in my hands to be used in advancing the Lord’s work. I greatly desire that the circulation of my books shall largely increase in the future. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 13)
The handling of the books Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing is a source of great encouragement both to those who sell them and to those who purchase. Especially are the sick helped by reading Ministry of Healing. Through the sale of Ministry, it is possible to establish and maintain many small sanitariums in various places, and to treat free of charge some who otherwise would be unable to receive medical attention. All classes are thus reached, the poor as well as the wealthy, and our workers become acquainted with many and have opportunity to communicate to them a knowledge of saving truth. Those who have received physical benefits at our institutions are often very grateful and manifest a desire to learn more of the truths that God has given us in His Word. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 14)
I am hoping that my life may be spared to continue this work of helping the teachers and students in our schools, and also those connected with the medical missionary work. In times past, we have been favored with opportunities to purchase properties well adapted for school and sanitarium purposes. Our work is still advancing. As new places are entered, and the work develops, it becomes necessary to establish additional schools for the training of workers and sanitariums for the care of the sick. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 15)
Now if you can help us to extend these lines of work, we shall be pleased. In the cause of God, there is nothing needed more than practical results, as revealed in the consecrating of the life to the doing of missionary work wherever opportunity affords. It is because of this that the circulation of the relief books Object Lessons and Ministry has proved to be so great a blessing to all parties concerned. Many who have undertaken to sell these books have had the joy of inspiring unbelievers with a desire to do something for the Lord’s cause in the earth. As the workers have carried these books to the homes of the people, and solicited unbelievers to buy these works containing the precious light of Bible truth, they have gained rich experiences. The practical results have been marvelous, and most satisfactory. Many who have thus been laborers together with God testify that they have been given just the words they wished to say and have had good success. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 16)
The distribution of books containing the truths of God’s Holy Word is a means of revealing to the world the practical results of the Christian religion. As consecrated workers with hearts filled with love for perishing souls go from door to door, men will take knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus. Many who claim to be acquainted with heavenly things have too slight a hold upon God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. They have not comprehend in its fulness the eternal, soul-saving principles of divine truth. If, by means of consecrated service, the attention of unbelievers can be arrested long enough to create in their minds a desire to read books containing saving truth, it is certainly worthy of every effort that can be put forth. Our people need to put into operation all the tact and ability and God-given wisdom that they possess in an earnest, prayerful endeavor to present the light of heaven with convicting power, and in the spirit of the Master Worker. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 17)
I will now close this lengthy epistle. If you become acquainted with those who desire to unite with us in our work, be true to the God of heaven, and urge them to do all they can in behalf of Him who has given His life for their redemption. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 18)
May the Lord bless your family and yourself, and may you decide to follow the Lord fully and wholeheartedly. May the blessing of heaven rest richly upon your little daughter, who has given her heart to the Lord in her youth. (25LtMs, Lt 24, 1910, 19)
Lt 26, 1910
Burkhardt, Sister [M. C.]
St. Helena, California
February 24, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in TSB 37-38.
Mrs. M. C. Burkhardt
6270 Racine Street
Oakland, California
Dear Sister:
I have just received a letter from Charles Burkhardt, a student in the school at Lodi, California, pleading with me to inquire of the Lord concerning his mother, whom he says is thinking of marrying a young man many years younger than herself. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 1)
I am surprised to hear that a mother forty-six years of age will imperil her happiness, her welfare, and her influence by marrying a young man of twenty. This is a strange matter and reveals lack of sound judgment. The Lord would have this sister consider carefully the sure result of such a course of action. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 2)
In this matter, our sister must be under a strange influence—an influence contrary to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As the mother of three children, she should feel her accountability to God to move discreetly in all respects, that she may hold her influence over her children, and not pursue any course that they and many others would regard as so questionable. She should realize that her duty to her God and to her children demands the most serious consideration. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 3)
My sister, the Lord is not in this matter. Such a marriage would bring strange results—results that would destroy the influence that a mother should earnestly seek to maintain over her own children. This influence I entreat of you to guard sacredly. God has solemnly charged you, as the mother of your children, to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. For you at this time to take a youth of twenty as your husband would be strangely inconsistent with your responsibilities as a mother of three sons now grown to manhood. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 4)
In the night season I was talking with you concerning these matters and setting before you the inconsistency of the course under contemplation. I advise you to exercise your ingenuity of mind in an effort to help your children to understand the advantages of loving the Word of God. Show your children that you are co-operating with the Lord in an effort to save their souls. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 5)
In the night season it was presented before me that if you should take this strange step, the enemy of all righteousness would use this as a means of ruining the respect that your children would otherwise have for you and would create in their hearts a feeling of contempt for you because of your lack of good judgment. Satan is seeking to destroy your influence in the home and in the church, and among unbelievers as well. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 6)
In past years we have had opportunity to observe several marriages of this sort, and the results have always been of a character to create great misery in the family life. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 7)
Now, my sister, I appeal to you to act like a woman of superior judgment. Do, I beseech of you, preserve every jot of your influence, in order that you may use it to the glory of God in giving wise counsel to your own children. You are held accountable before God for the good influence you may now have the power of exerting. For your own sake, and for the sake of your children, cut this matter short. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 8)
In the night season I was saying, Give to your children, as a true mother, an example of living faith in God, and thus retain the respect and confidence that otherwise you might forever lose. (25LtMs, Lt 26, 1910, 9)
Lt 28, 1910
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W.
St. Helena, California
February 22, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in Ev 390; 10MR 362. +
Elders Daniells and Prescott
Dear Brethren:
I have read Elder Daniells’ letters regarding the meetings recently held in Battle Creek. I am very much pleased to learn that you have had a successful conference there and that so much interest has been manifested in the public services. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 1)
It was presented to me while in Washington that Brother Prescott and others of our ministers may bear a precious testimony in favor of the truth of God’s Word in the unworked cities. As the messengers study the plain, simple truths of the Word, and receive these into their hearts, and then present them before the public congregation, the Lord will speak through them. Angels of God will be present to make right impressions. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 2)
At some favorable time later on in the season, it would be well for our brethren to hold a camp-meeting near Battle Creek, to counterwork the influences that for years have been at work, making wrong impressions. It is due Battle Creek that the true evidence of Bible truth be given to counterwork the influence of Dr. Kellogg. The importance of this matter has been presented before me distinctly and repeatedly. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 3)
I cannot express how thankful I am that during your meeting in Battle Creek the Spirit of God has been present to witness to the truths proclaimed, and that the trumpet has been given a certain sound. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 4)
Light has been given through the testimonies that in places where false messages have been urged so strongly, it is due the people that everything possible be done to present in a clear light the truths of God’s Word, in order to counterwork the false presentations that have been made in regard to the doctrines we teach. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 5)
Repeatedly, and in a variety of ways, false representations have been made in Battle Creek, calculated to undermine faith in genuine Bible truth. Pamphlets full of misrepresentations have been published, written by men who for years have been turning away from Bible truth, and these pamphlets have been widely circulated. But the third angel’s message is again to be proclaimed in Battle Creek in all its purity, that men may discern between truth and error. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 6)
I thank God that public meetings have been held in the Battle Creek tabernacle, and that the trumpet has been given a certain sound. This is the very line of work that in the visions of the night I saw Elder Prescott engaged in, and in the manner described by Elder Daniells in his recent letter. I saw that as our brother would use his voice in proclaiming the message of present truth, he would be exercising his talents to the glory of God, and a deep impression would be made upon the minds of the people. The mind and the voice of the speaker combined will make right impressions on large assemblies. This is in harmony with the Lord’s plan. The presentation of important subjects before large congregations will result in the development of the talent of personal influence. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 7)
Decided work should be done in the state of Maine. Portland is to be worked. During the years that have been passing, God’s people have neglected their duty toward Maine and many other states in the East. There are towns in Maine, like Brunswick and Bangor, that must be worked faithfully. All through the cities and towns of the East, the truth is to shine forth as a lamp that burneth. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 8)
We have recently attended important meetings at Mountain View and at Lodi. I spoke four times in each of these places. In the Lodi church, the heat from the stoves in the room was somewhat oppressive at times, and this, with the foul air, affected me adversely; and although I was able to remain till the last day of the meeting, I have not recovered from the ill effects. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 9)
Those who hold meetings at this season of the year should guard carefully against the danger of overheating rooms and of overlooking proper ventilation. Often the air is poisoned by the many breaths, and these poisons are not always allowed to escape quickly. I warn my brethren to keep these matters in mind if they value their lives. As soon as I regain my usual strength, I hope to visit Oakland and some other places. We must be careful to guard our health, and not allow anything to imperil our usefulness at the very time when every voice is needed for the work of proclaiming the truth in the highways and the byways—in out-of-door gatherings, as well as in tents and public halls. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 10)
I am charged to exhort the messengers of truth to do without further delay the work that should have been done long ago in the large cities. It is the positive duty of believers to do a decided work at this time in these centers of population. God calls upon His workmen to hold meetings in every way that seems best to reach the people. No longer are the multitudes to be passed by. God forbids the continued neglect of important centers. He forbids the continued expenditure of large sums of money in a few places where the message is already firmly established, when comparatively nothing is being done in many other places fully as needy as were those where so much has been done. He calls upon His servants to go out into the highways and the hedges without delay. (25LtMs, Lt 28, 1910, 11)
Lt 30, 1910
Daniells, A. G. and others in Washington
Oakland, California
March 19, 1910
Previously unpublished. +
To Elder Daniells and others bearing large responsibilities in Washington
Dear Brethren:
A decided reformation should have taken place at the time of the last General Conference held at Washington. If the working of the Holy Spirit had been clearly recognized, wonderful victories would have been gained. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 1)
When the Holy Spirit shall sit as a Refiner and Purifier of silver, there will be in those connected with the printing office, the sanitarium, and with every line of work established there decided changes. The Holy Spirit of God will refine, enlighten, and sanctify, and the glory of God will be revealed. Then those connected with every line of the work will be refined and purified from dross, and the entire church will be revived. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 2)
Those who see no need of this work will continue as heretofore to work out their own unconverted principles. The Lord will just as surely fulfil His word as He has done in times past. It is too late to trifle with the truth in any manner. Those who do this will, just as surely as God lives, reap the results. I am to write this warning to all who have settled or shall settle in Washington, D.C. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 3)
Study the thirteenth chapter of Acts, and understand that the Lord will not encourage false theories and a low standard. He requires our people to seek the Lord most earnestly. They need to study the light given in the book of Acts and to humble the heart before God. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 4)
Washington is not the only place where decided changes are needed. In all our printing establishments there must be a higher moral standard upraised and maintained. Every sanitarium that has been established is to be cleansed, sanctified, refined, purified. This reformatory work is to extend throughout America. Then let the message of warning go forth as a lamp that burneth into the highways and byways. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 5)
Read chapters fifty to fifty-eight of Isaiah. I am to charge the leaders in our cause and those connected with our institutions that they are in need of studying these chapters. I am to say to them that there has been a disregard for the reproofs that the Lord has given to His people. There are some who will accept the word they choose to accept, but who do not make thorough work of consecration to God. A burden has been laid upon me to warn those in high positions, those carrying great responsibilities. You have had great light, and had you received it with faith, and followed on to know the Lord, many souls now unwarned would have heard the reasons of our faith. Although the Lord has laid the reproof upon you, you have heeded not. Shall I not judge, saith the Lord, for these neglected duties to warn the people as to what is truth? (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 6)
What would be the result if our brethren should heed and accept the sixtieth and sixty-fifth chapters of Isaiah? Chapters sixty and sixty-one would be understood, and chapter sixty-two to sixty-five would speak to you in a most decided manner. As our brethren take these words, and stop all complaining and every evil work, then the Lord will manifest His power in the conviction and conversion of souls. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 7)
Whatever position of influence you may occupy, decide to be wholly on the Lord’s side. Put away the evil of your works, come nigh, repent, and be converted. A reformation must go through the congregation of Israel. Your ways are not acceptable to God. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 8)
Let the work of conversion begin with those in the most responsible positions. Some will never see things straight unless they are converted. A great work is to be done, not in a fanatical manner, but let each man begin in his own house and work diligently. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 9)
I present this to you who have had instruction line upon line, precept upon precept. Make no delay to heed the messages that have been coming year after year. Let every man teach the truth in his own household. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 10)
Every line of the work in Washington needs to be candidly considered, to see if the Lord is pleased with the fruit that is presented to Him in well-ordered lives and godly conversation. There are many who pass for Christians that are not worthy the name. They must be converted in conversation. The heart must be given to the Lord to do Him service. Our presence must grace heaven with its conformity to the will of our divine Saviour. (25LtMs, Lt 30, 1910, 11)
Lt 32, 1910
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, Brother and Sister [W. W.]
Oakland, California
March 18, 1910
See variant Lt 32a, 1910. Portions of this letter are published in 6BC 1055; 6Bio 219.
Elders Daniells and Brother and Sister Prescott:
We have all felt pained to learn of Sister Prescott’s illness. In our house we have been praying for her recovery. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 1)
I have been afflicted of late through overmuch labor, and the burdens that I bore at Mountain View and Lodi were very heavy. I spoke four times at each place. I dreaded to come to this meeting in Oakland, but I thought I would attempt the journey, and was blessed and strengthened. I shall try to speak Sabbath afternoon. My hear trembles for fear that I shall not be able to speak. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 2)
March 19
As soon as I was on my feet, I had a decided testimony for the people. Strength was given me, and I spoke for one hour from Acts 1:1-14. The Lord gave me the power of His Holy Spirit, and I was greatly blessed in speaking the words the Lord gave me. We had a large congregation, considering that it was a rainy afternoon. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 3)
Today I am resting. I am thankful that the Lord gives me His grace to address the people. There has been a constant battle in this church because some have refused to come into harmony with the work of the Lord for this time. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 4)
We feel an intense interest that the truth shall go deep and thorough into the hearts of our people in their belief of the truth. They have had in Oakland an evidence of the power of the Spirit of God speaking through the human instrument. Our people feel greatly encouraged; and I am encouraged, for I was very sick for days before coming here. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 5)
I thank the Lord for the strength and power which came upon me while speaking. This gives me courage in the Lord. If the enemy can be, through Jesus Christ, exposed on every occasion that I visit Oakland, so that the message that the Lord sends shall be permitted to triumph through His grace, I shall be more than thankful. I will act my part through the grace which the Lord gives me. I will be willing to endure any counterworking influence. The Lord understands the situation and the artful workings of the foe to make of no effect the work He would have done. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 6)
Jots and tittles will be introduced in opposition to the truth, and magnified to immense proportions, and much talked about when silence would be the wisdom of righteousness. Unless we are taught of God and worked by His Holy Spirit, great confusion will come into our ranks. What is needed is that we proclaim the truth and live the truth in its simplicity, that the souls in our cities that have not heard the message of mercy may see the truth and lay hold upon it, and be converted; then in the simplicity of their first love, they will present the truth to others. We are in danger of drying up and loosing the heavenly moisture of the Holy Spirit. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 7)
Let us read and receive and present to others the second chapter of the book of Acts. We need a deeper piety and the sincere meekness of the Great Teacher. I am instructed to advise you in Washington, D.C., that the whole book of Acts is our lesson book. All of us need to humble our own individual hearts and be converted daily. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 8)
I may not again be able to speak to the people in Oakland, but I am not anxious about the matter. I have spoken once under the influence of the Holy Spirit; and if I feel urged to do so, I will stand on the platform again. I am not my own. I am bought with a price. I shall speak the words the Lord gives me, just as I spoke them when I was with you in Washington. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 9)
Some of you did not understand the message that I bore, and may never understand it. I knew this before I left you. If the converting power of God shall come into the hearts of the very leaders in Washington, there will be a decided revival among them, because they will be brought into right relation to God and can glorify His name. (25LtMs, Lt 32, 1910, 10)
Lt 32a, 1910
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, Brother and Sister
Oakland, California
March 18, 1910
Variant of Lt 32, 1910. Previously unpublished.
Elder Daniells and Brother and Sister Prescott:
We have all felt pained to learn of Sister Prescott’s illness. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 1)
I have been afflicted of late through overmuch labor, and the burdens I bore at Mountain View and Lodi were heavy. I spoke four times at each place. I had decided not to come to this meeting in Oakland, but I thought I would attempt the journey, and was blessed and strengthened. I shall try to speak Sabbath afternoon. My heart trembles for fear that I shall not be able to speak. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 2)
March 19
As soon as I was on my feet, I had a decided testimony for the people. Strength was given me, and I spoke for one hour from Acts 1:1-14. The Lord gave me the power of His Holy Spirit, and I was greatly blessed in speaking the words the Lord gave me. We had a large congregation, considering that it was a rainy afternoon. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 3)
Today I am resting. I am thankful that the Lord gives me His grace to address the people. There has been a constant battle in this church, warring against the Maxson and Sanderson element and the parties that have refused to come into harmony with the work of the Lord for this time. They are determined to war against the testimonies. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 4)
We feel an intense interest that the truth shall go deep and thorough into the hearts of our people in their belief of the truth. They have in Oakland an evidence of the power of the Spirit of God, speaking through the human instrument. Our people feel greatly encouraged, and I am encouraged, for I was very sick for days before coming here. I thank the Lord for the strength and His power which came upon me while speaking. This gives me courage in the Lord. If the enemy can be, through Jesus Christ, exposed on every occasion that I visit Oakland, so that the message that the Lord sends shall be permitted to triumph through His grace, I shall be more thankful. I will act my part through the grace which the Lord gives me. I will be willing to endure any counter-working influence. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 5)
The Lord understands the situation, and the artful working of the foe to make of no effect the work He would have done. Counter jots and tittles will be introduced and magnified to immense proportions, when silence would be the wisdom of righteousness. Unless we are taught of God and worked by His Holy Spirit, great confusion will come into our ranks. What is needed if that we proclaim the truth and live the truth in its simplicity, that the souls that not heard the message of mercy in our cities may see the truth and lay hold upon it, and be converted; then in the simplicity of their first love, present the truth to others. We are in danger of drying up and losing the heavenly moisture of the Holy Spirit. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 6)
Let us read and receive and present to others the second chapter of the book of Acts. We need a deeper piety, and the sincere meekness of the Great Teacher. The whole book of Acts is our lesson, I am instructed to advise you in Washington, D.C. All of us need to humble our own individual hearts, and be converted daily. This I write to you. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 7)
I may not be able to speak to the people in Oakland again, but I worry not about the matter. I have spoken once under the influence of the Holy Spirit of God. If I feel urged by the Holy Spirit, I will stand on the platform again. I am not my own. I am bought with a price. I shall speak the words the Lord gives me, just as I spoke them in Washington when I was with you. Some of you did not understand the speech, and may never understand. I knew this before I left you. If the converting power of God shall come into your hearts, there will be a decided revival among the very leaders in Washington, because they will be brought into right relation to God, and can glorify His name. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 8)
When the Holy Spirit shall sit as a Refiner and Purifier of silver, there will be in those connected with the printing office, the Sanitarium and with every line of work established there, a decided change. The Holy Spirit of God will refine, enlighten, and sanctify the receiver, that the glory of God shall be revealed. Those connected with every line of the work will be refined and purified from dross, and the entire church will be converted. But those who see no need of this work, as they have done, will continue to work out their own unconverted principles. The Lord will just as surely fulfil His word as He has done in times past. It is too late to trifle with the truth in any manner. Those who do this will just as surely as God lives, reap the results. I am to write this warning to all who have or shall settle in Washington, D.C. A decided reformation should have taken place at the General Conference [session] held at Washington. But the working of the Holy Spirit was not recognized as it should have been. If it had been, wonderful victories would have been gained. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 9)
But Washington is not the only place in which a decided change is needed. In all out printing establishments there must be a higher moral standard upraised and maintained. Study the thirteenth chapter of Acts, and understand that the Lord will not encourage false theories and a low standard. He requires our people in Washington to seek the Lord most earnestly. They need to study the light given in the book of Acts, to humble their own hearts before God. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 10)
Every Sanitarium that has been established is to be cleansed, sanctified, refined, [and] purified. This reformatory work is to extend throughout America. Then let the message of warning go forth as a lamp that burneth, into the highways and the byways. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 11)
Read (chapters 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57), [and] 58 of Isaiah. I am to charge you that those who are here brought to view are in need of studying these chapters. I am to say unto you, There has been a disregard for the reproofs the Lord has given to His people. There are some who will accept the words they choose to accept, but do not make the words they choose to accept, but do not make thorough work. Nevertheless I am to warn those in high positions, carrying great responsibilities. You have had great light, and had you received it and followed on to know the Lord, souls that have not heard the reasons of our faith would have heard them ere now. Although the Lord has laid the reproof upon you, you have heeded not. Shall I not judge, saith the Lord, for these neglected duties to warn My people to understand what is truth? (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 12)
What will be the result if you heed and accept the sixtieth and sixty-first chapters of Isaiah? When the same reformation shall come to the people of God, chapters sixty and sixty-one will be understood. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 13)
(Chapters 62, 63, 64, and 65) will speak to you in a most decided manner. As you take these words, and stop your complaining and you evil working, then shall the Lord appear to the conviction and conversion of souls. But whatever your position of influence may be, it is not wholly on the Lord’s side, and you encourage evil. Put away the evil of your works. Come nigh, repent, and be converted. Your ways are not accepted of God. A reformation must go through the congregation of Israel. Come nigh, repent, and be converted. Your ways are not accepted of God. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 14)
A reformation must go through the congregation of Israel. Elder Daniells needs to see clearly and distinctly that he never will see things straight unless he is converted. A great work is to be done, not in a fanatical way, but let each man begin in his own house, and work diligently. The messages have been coming for years; now delay no longer. Let every man teach the truth in his own household. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 15)
I present this to you who had instruction line upon line, precept upon precept. I am in earnest when I say that there are many who pass for Christians that are not worthy [of] the name, and God is dishonored. Every line of the work in Washington needs to be candidly considered, to see if the Lord is pleased with the fruit that you present to Him in a well-ordered life and godly conversation. Will you consider whether you will grace heaven with your conversation? Our presence must grace heaven with its conformity to the will of our divine Saviour. We must be converted in conversation. The whole heart the Lord requires to do Him service. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 16)
Mothers, your children are to be educated to do the Lord’s service by your own lives. Teach your children to share in the home duties. Children are to be educated to be helping hands for their parents, and this is the training God requires the parents to give them in patience. Fathers and mothers, never scold your children, but take them aside and tell them they are to help you so that you may not have all the burdens to bear, and thus have not strength to train them to be children of the heavenly King. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 17)
Word came to me that the students in one of our schools were planning to play for exercise. This plan was presented by the preceptor of the school when we were in Australia. At that time, the Lord presented to me that the distress then being experienced in Australia was caused by lack of knowing how to obtain food from a cultivation of the soil. The people were not serving the Lord, and their works were contrary to the directions of God. Money have been selfishly obtained, banks were failing, and there was a great dearth of means, because of men’s iniquities and perversity. The displeasure of God rested upon the battle. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 18)
Read Chapter [Seven] of the book Christian Education, and then trace out the history of the schools of the prophets, and when you see the force of the Scriptures, you will see how much time is thrown away, filling the mind with false theories in regard to education. The searching of the scriptures is what we need to teach our children. The study of the Word will give strength of intellect, for angels of God are close beside the one who is searching the Scriptures. Says the psalmist, “The entrance of thy word giveth light.” “It giveth understanding to the simple.” [Psalm 119:130.] (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 19)
It is often asked, Should the Bible become the important book in our schools? Read the answer on pages 105 and 106 of Christian Education. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 20)
I might quote page after page with reference to the value of the Scripture being studied in our schools. In very many of our homes there are books full of frivolous stories that fill the mind so that it is not possible for that mind to be converted to the love of the Word of God. The reading of such stories only cheapens the mind and the thoughts the more they are perused. I ask you all to purchase the book Christian Education. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 21)
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] The Word of God is like a treasure house containing everything that is essential to perfect the man of God. We do not appreciate the Word of God as we should. Do you pray for the advancement of the truth? Then work for it, and show that your prayers rise from sincere and honest hearts. God does not work miracles where He has provided means by which the work may be accomplished. You have a God high and lifted up, the train of whose glory fills the temple. I wish you all to present this book to those who have it not, and we will be repaid for the trouble we have taken to write this concerning it. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 22)
Our people do not know, neither do they see clearly, to place a right conception upon this work. Brethren in our cities. I am to say to you that a great work is upon us. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 23)
Satan will put his conceptions into the minds of men in our printing establishments, in our sanitariums, and into the minds of all engaged in our important lines of work. There will be a necessity of working to the point. There are fatal errors entertained by some, which the Lord will not sustain, and these need a full investigation. The idea that a position once taken must never be given up, is a snare of Satan, and must not be entertained. Any soul who entertains such an idea is in a most perilous position. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 24)
The whole world is to be worked. Then, said the Lord, Why are a few centers built up and strength devoted to these centers, and no special effort put forth in many, many cities? (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 25)
The instruction has been given to us, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayer earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:16-20.] (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 26)
Here is the true working of the Holy Spirit upon the heart. There is our work laid out before us. We need to look carefully, and weigh every evidence God has given us. We are to make most diligent work to secure souls from the service of sin to righteousness. We have a grand work to do. If we make a mistake, we are to confess the error. Read the third chapter of First Peter; also the fourth and fifth chapters. These chapters are very encouraging to present to those who are laboring in church capacity. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 27)
Let the wise worker in church capacity be helped, and let him not fall into so great an error as to suppose that because he has had strong faith in an accepted idea or doctrine that he must never make a change and must refuse to make repentance for his wrong. This very position shows him to be immortalized. This position held by Brother Cottrell makes us fear for him. His position is a dangerous one. I have been instructed that this position is very dangerous. We are liable to err, liable to accept theories and immortalize them until they become a part of our very selves, to live as long as we live. We are erring human beings. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 28)
Mothers often err in the management of their children. The mother must be daily converted, as a vessel unto honor, to devote her capabilities to her family. Converted and sanctified through the truth daily, she can be a sanctified worker in the home. She will often have her feelings stirred by the errors and the presumptuous course of her children, but she should never punish them in anger. The Lord will help the true Christian mother to seek His wisdom in difficult cases, and He will be her guide. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 29)
Mothers, you can conquer only through Christ. With deep feelings of regret, she may be obliged to punish the wilful, disobedient child; but prayer will often do more than the rod. The victory over the stubborn will often be gained by the presentation of Christ in her prayer. Never strike a painful blow to your child, which may cause a reform. Be sure to learn how to conquer self. As you live His life, showing your grief because of the self will of the child, a complete victory may be given and God be glorified. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 30)
Mothers, fathers, by the grace of God you can gain the victory over your own strong selfish propensities. As you live His showing self-sacrifice at every step, you will leave a life-long remembrance upon the minds of you children. Day by day you will learn the lessons of self-denial, and how to conquer self. The Lord Jesus will be your Helper. He understands your character, and He will be your light, your strength, your crown of rejoicing. Because you yield your will to the will of Christ, an impression is made which is of the highest importance to yourself. Strive to fulfil the will of your precious Redeemer, day by day looking unto Him who is the Author and Finisher of your faith. Try it, fathers; try it mothers. Your children will be helped, and cured of their unhappy tempers, Begin at once to conquest self. (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 31)
Children, you may begin overcoming your defects of character by giving yourselves to Christ, who gave His life for you. Let us all enter into a solemn covenant with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, that we will have a sample home, preparing for the transfer to the home Christ has gone to prepare for us. O how pleasant will be that life fashioned after Christ’s life! (25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, 32)
Lt 34, 1910
Simpson, Abbie Winegar
Loma Linda, California
March 29, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dr. Abbie Winegar-Simpson
Long Beach, California
Dear Sister Simpson:
I received your letter this forenoon, and I wish to thank you for your kind invitation to visit you. I shall, if I am able, call upon you. While on this journey, I have had several urgent appeals to speak. Last Sabbath I spoke in Los Angeles to the largest congregation I have ever addressed in that city. Every seat possible was provided, and I never before spoke to such a large congregation which was so perfectly attentive and in which there was so little confusion. I had perfect freedom in speaking. (25LtMs, Lt 34, 1910, 1)
One of our brethren took us in an automobile from the Glendale Sanitarium to the church in Los Angeles. After the close of the meeting, a number of sisters gathered about the automobile to speak to me. I was pleased to see many nice-looking, colored sisters among the number, and was glad to take them by the hand, and to speak a few words to them. This occasion will long live in my remembrance. (25LtMs, Lt 34, 1910, 2)
Sunday morning I spoke to a company gathered in the chapel at the Glendale Sanitarium. I had freedom in speaking, and after I had finished, testimonies were borne by many of those present. A good spirit seemed to prevail in the meeting. (25LtMs, Lt 34, 1910, 3)
Yesterday we came to Loma Linda. I have been laboring so much in the cold weather that the effect upon me has not been good. I must now rest, if possible, notwithstanding I have several appointments ahead of me. I expect to speak here at Loma Linda, then at the school in San Fernando. After that I go to Paradise Valley. Just what course will be marked out for me after that I cannot tell. I know not what labor may open before me in San Diego. I cannot possibly visit you at this time, for I cannot tax my physical strength to a great extent. I am now in my eighty-third year. I cannot do anything more in the line of speaking until I am rested. I am keeping my room now, trying to rest. Yesterday I took a short walk, and it tired me very much. Now I have to judge what I can do and in the fear of the Lord do it. (25LtMs, Lt 34, 1910, 4)
We hope that you and your husband will be blessed of the Lord in seeking to do His will and to follow in His footsteps. If I am able, I shall be pleased to visit you after my visits to San Diego and Paradise Valley are completed. These must come first. If the Lord will strengthen me as He has done heretofore, I can do the work appointed me. I am to go where I have promised, if able to do so. (25LtMs, Lt 34, 1910, 5)
I thank you for your kind invitation and shall not forget it. May the blessing of the Lord rest upon you both. And if you follow on to know the Lord, you will have a crown of rejoicing when your work is pronounced faithfully done. God bless you, is my desire and prayer. (25LtMs, Lt 34, 1910, 6)
Lt 36, 1910
White, J. E.; White, Emma
Loma Linda, California
April 3, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 19-20; 4Bio 8.
Dear children Edson and Emma White:
I have just received a letter from W. C. White, stating that he would be on his way to Nashville on the morrow. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 1)
On the Sabbath I spoke to quite a large congregation here under the pepper trees. I hope that those who where in attendance may be strengthened and blessed. I am not in my usual strength, but I think I shall improve, for they give me an opportunity to improve here. I shall take no new burden upon my soul if I can help it until I recover my strength. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 2)
I have ridden out thee times. They have an abundance of excellent food here, much of it being raised on the farm. I enjoy the fresh vegetables very much. We are nicely located in two adjoining rooms. If I want anything, all I have to do is to tap on the door, which is close by my bed. We hope we may have as good accommodations when we return here to attend the meeting next month. There has been some thinning out of the patients here, but quite a large number still remain. Today has been a cloudy day, but there is a most beautiful sunset this evening, so we are almost sure of a bright Monday morning. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 3)
I have had some conversation with Elder Burden concerning some matters which he wishes me to speak upon when I am able in regard to the blending of the evangelistic and medical work. I think I shall be able to speak tomorrow forenoon, although I have not fully recovered by strength since speaking in Mountain View and Lodi, four times in each place. I shall not do this again, for it is not safe. I have not dared to presume upon my strength;, but when before the people, I do not realize how much taxation I take upon myself. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 4)
A week ago yesterday I spoke in the church in Los Angeles, and the house was crowded to its utmost capacity. I wish a picture could have been drawn of the crowd. That crowded congregation was the most agreeable sight I have ever looked upon, and everything was in order. Every receptacle for flowers was removed. Every seat that could be crowded in was occupied. There was not one crying voice of a child, and the pleasant, happy faces were a sight that brought joy to my heart and did my soul good. The sisters, as far as I could see, removed their hats, and what a pleasure it was to view their countenances. I had good freedom in speaking. At the close of the service, a brother brought us back to the Glendale Sanitarium in his automobile. Out of the kindness of his heart, this brother had thus accommodated us. I could but think that a blessing would rest upon him for the kindness he showed to us. We had the utmost confidence in his skill in managing his machine. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 5)
When we were seated in the automobile, ready to return to Glendale, not a few colored sisters pressed about the conveyance to see and speak with me. They expressed their appreciation of the discourse. Cheerfulness and happiness was expressed in their countenances, and it was a scene of cheerful parting. I shall long remember that interesting meeting, and the stillness and peacefulness expressed in the countenances of both white and colored people. I shall also remember the careful attention of Brother and Sister Andross, and the joy I felt in my heart to see them and their sons, who love and serve the Lord. May this family be blessed of the Lord, and glorify His holy name, is my prayer. I shall never forget this meeting, and all the pleasant circumstances which left to hallowed an impression upon me as we returned to Glendale. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 6)
My dear children, I should be much pleased to see you and visit with you, but this is impossible at present. I believe the Lord will remove this feeling of weakness and lack of vitality that is upon me. I am rather in dread of the meetings at San Diego and Paradise Valley. From here we go to the San Fernando School to spend the next Sabbath and Sunday. I have received an urgent invitation from Dr. Winegar-Simpson to spend some weeks with her in Long Beach, but this I cannot do. The work on my books must go forward. They must be gotten into print so that the people can have them. I have kept up my diary, as far as possible, of our labors in Australia and in Europe, but this has not as yet been put into print. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 7)
I have written to Dr. Simpson, thanking her for her kind invitation, but telling her that it will be impossible for me to make her a long visit. I am not strong and will not be imprudent if I can avoid it. I hope I shall be able to bear my testimony in San Diego and in Paradise Valley. If not, then I will have done my best. I shall send a copy of this letter to Willie also. I sincerely hope that he will be with me at our meeting at Loma Linda. And now I will close my letter. (25LtMs, Lt 36, 1910, 8)
Lt 38, 1910
White, Edson; White, Emma
Loma Linda, California
April 20, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear children Edson and Emma White:
I am again at Loma Linda. The trip has been taken to Paradise Valley and San Diego. We were pleased to see the improvements made at the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. The sanitarium was full of patients. The room I occupied was engaged by a lady, so we took our departure some days earlier than had been planned, as we had to make a change to give the lady her engaged room. It was planned that I should stop in Los Angeles on my way back here to speak in a large hall they would hire. But we decided to come by a different route. We were surprise to see the car filled with ministers and their wives. This was enjoyable, and we came direct, with the exception of two changes. We were much pleased with this route. (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 1)
When making one of the changes, we were surprise to meet Elder Parsons, who had been holding meetings in Santa Ana. He says thirty have been converted there. He helped us in changing our baggage from one train to the other. I was very glad to hear him bear such an encouraging testimony regarding his health. He says he is in perfect health. (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 2)
I hope to rest now and keep free from burdens until the important meeting is held here at Loma Loma. A good sizeable meetinghouse is nearly completed and will, we think, accommodate the people who attend the meeting. We expect a large gathering. I wish you could be here. We should be glad to see you and wish you were where we could see you and enjoy your company. We hope that Emma and you, Edson, will be free from disease, and that Emma may enjoy the rooms prepared for her. (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 3)
Elder Andross has a feeble wife, although her health is improving. He has had a room made for her, the sides of which are glass, and in this room she spends most of her time and enjoys it. She has a tendency to consumption. They have two noble sons whom they are giving the best advantages to become ministers. I liked their appearance very much. They are devoted to their mother, and the whole family is bound together in proper and agreeable bonds of affection. Elder Andross proposes to help me in the place of Willie, when it is possible. He has agreed with Willie to have the care that is necessary in looking after me and attending the meetings, helping me when it is possible. (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 4)
I suppose we will return home after the meeting here. At times I become very weary; but when able to stand upon my feet, I am strong under the inspiration of the Spirit of God. I feel no weariness, but feel stimulated by the Holy Spirit of God. (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 5)
The words, which to the unrenewed heart appear a barren waste, to the renewed understanding and the converted soul become the garden of God through the ministration of His Holy Spirit. “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.” [Ephesians 3:17-19.] (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 6)
We must simply trust in God. Miss what you may in human advantages, but stand through faith in God, who offers complete pardon. The promise is, “Seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] Believe in God fully. May the heart believe, and receive, and rejoice. (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 7)
Jesus spake as never man spake. He is the light that lighteth every man that cometh into the world. The heart that is surrendered to God loves the truth of God’s Word. The unrenewed, carnal mind finds no pleasure in dwelling upon the rich promises of the Word, but I am to tell you to draw daily from the living Word. Be of good courage, Edson and Emma, and trust in the living Word. (25LtMs, Lt 38, 1910, 8)
Lt 39, 1910
White, W. C.
Loma Linda, California
April 20, 1910
Previously unpublished. Incomplete.
My Son W. C. White:
I sent you a decided letter for yourself. I did not want it copied; but still it may be considered. (25LtMs, Lt 39, 1910, 1)
Last night is the first night’s rest I have had for some time; yet I have tried to labor, and now it is ordered that I speak on Sabbath. An appointment is out for me to speak in a large public hall in Los Angeles. Brother Andross and several others were in for this. I was assured I should have Elder Andross to help me. He and Elder Burden were with me in the school. (25LtMs, Lt 39, 1910, 2)
I was very much blessed in speaking to a crowded house, and all were deeply affected—men, women, and children. I spoke a short time Sunday morning. The meeting place was crowded and the same tender spirit was manifested. And then I spoke once to the crowded meetinghouse in San Diego, and the softening influence of the Holy Spirit was upon the congregation. (25LtMs, Lt 39, 1910, 3)
I did not stay my supposed time in Paradise Valley. We had good rooms, but they were full at the sanitarium; and as we had to give up our rooms—previously engaged—on Monday, Sarah proposed that we come to this place—Loma Linda—on that day. I thought it a good idea, and we found ourselves in cars for a certain high class of people, ministers and their wives, and we enjoyed the journey. We decided not to go around by Los Angeles. [Incomplete.] (25LtMs, Lt 39, 1910, 4)
Lt 40, 1910
Ford, Brother
Loma Linda, California
April 18, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear Brother Ford:
Last Sabbath I spoke to the people in the San Diego church. I felt deeply in regard to the words in Deuteronomy, which I took for my text. (25LtMs, Lt 40, 1910, 1)
After the meeting closed, I was informed that Elder Healey was present; but I thought that it could not be, for I had understood that he was engaged in the work of holding religious liberty meetings. After I returned to Paradise Valley Sanitarium, Brother Ford came to see me, and I asked him if Elder Healey was in the meeting. He said that Elder Healey sat on the front seat, but he did not know whether to ask Elder Healey to come into the stand or not. I was a little surprised that he did not do this, to a minister of the gospel. The house was very much crowded, and I did not see Elder Healey, and supposed that he was working out important matters in districts where the light he could give them was very much needed. (25LtMs, Lt 40, 1910, 2)
Now, my brother, we can decide the questions which you spoke to me about, by doing as you would be done by. I think, yes, I know, that the Word of God is our educating directory. Under all circumstances, do as you would consider your brother should do to you. We need more gentle kindness, and this would be our best grace as gospel ministers. Our feelings must be revealed on the Christ side of all these questions. We must have less of self and more of Christ. We are to act in the missionary spirit on every occasion. It will not reveal the Christian to be critical and overbearing and heedless of others’ feelings. We are all in need of Christian politeness. (25LtMs, Lt 40, 1910, 3)
We had a pleasant trip up to Loma Linda, and the changing scenery along the way was of deep interest to me. We met Elder Parsons as we were making a change from one train to another, and he helped us with our baggage. He has been holding meetings in Santa Ana and has had excellent success. He reports that thirty have accepted the truth there. He could stop only long enough to help us change cars, but this we were grateful for. We would have been pleased could we have attended the meetings in this place. We were very glad that Elder Parsons could report that he is enjoying perfect health. (25LtMs, Lt 40, 1910, 4)
We are occupying rooms in the nine-room cottage, which is preferable in every way to any other location. I have not slept very well, as my nerves are becoming wearied. I hope that I shall not have to move again until after the general meeting in Loma Linda. I have no desire to be journeying if I can possibly feel free to avoid it. I am very tired and hope to become rested before the meeting opens. (25LtMs, Lt 40, 1910, 5)
This is the most beautiful place I have ever seen and thank God for it every time I consider how He has wrought for us in giving us this place. His name shall be glorified. I will be thankful that the Lord has blessed the work here. I have not gone over the place, but I enjoy this cottage with others who are thus favored. (25LtMs, Lt 40, 1910, 6)
Lt 42, 1910
Parsons, D. A.
Loma Linda, California
April 29, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in TDG 128.
Elder Parsons:
We hope to see you at the coming meeting. I was so sorry that we did not know that you were holding meeting in the place where we met you, as we passed through. We shall be glad to see you again and hope you will come to the meeting. (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 1)
My health is not good, but the Lord gives me strength to speak to the people. All our churches need to become more spiritual. Not a few church members are hiding their light under a bushel. O how much need there is of every church’s being awake to its individual responsibilities. Fathers and mothers have a large responsibility resting upon them to live the Christian life in their own homes. They should and must remember that they have a special work to do in behalf of their children. Their common-life business is to be done with the glory of God in view, and the work to be done is to watch their own souls first and to guard their own souls against the temptations of Satan. (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 2)
Angels were expelled from heaven because they would not work in harmony with God. They fell from their high estate because they wanted to be exalted. They had come to exalt themselves, and they forgot that their beauty of person and of character came from the Lord Jesus. This fact the angels would obscure, that Christ was the only begotten Son of God, and they came to consider that they were not to consult Christ. One angel began the controversy and carried it on until there was rebellion in the heavenly courts among the angels. They were lifted up because of their beauty. (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 3)
All should learn their lesson from this, that they are individually amenable to God. When they love God with all their hearts, they will be wise unto salvation. They will do His will, and their light will ever be their glory and be undiminished because they recognize and fear and serve their Lord. The solemn work rests upon every soul to consider that he is a servant of Jesus Christ, solemnly pledged by his baptismal vows to clothe himself with the righteousness of Christ. Will we carry out the living example of the Lord Jesus? (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 4)
I am instructed that every believer must watch unto prayer, lest he fails in the Christian-life battle. Every soul must daily seek the Lord with full purpose of heart—morning, noon, and night—and let the mind dwell upon the Word of God, to understand His requirements. The one all-important matter is to serve the Lord with full purpose of heart and seek to become the Lord’s, heart and mind. All who come to the Saviour for counsel will receive the very help they need, if they will come in humility and with assurance cling to that promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 5)
Brother Parsons, we have a most solemn work before us. Let us, my brother, lift up the standard, beginning with full surrender and continuing in the simplicity of obedience to all the Lord’s commandments, according to His special directions. None of the important things specified in His Word are to be neglected. Read to the people the fourth chapter of Deuteronomy. Read this chapter carefully, and regard the charge. O what a lesson is in this chapter! Read also chapters five, six, seven, and eight. Let the special lesson be our interest to do them. I feel intensely over this matter. All are to search the Scriptures for themselves, to make the Word of the Lord their study book, lest they also be found in rebellion. Let every soul sanctify himself daily, according to the Word of the Lord. Then the Lord will be glorified through us. (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 6)
The churches are asleep, and they need an awakening. They have not a knowledge of the requirements of the Lord. Let the message from the Lord go forth in its purity. Lift up the voice in the fear of the Lord, in warning. The families in the church who have a knowledge of the truth, to discern the signs of the times through the Word of the Lord, are not half awakened. Where are the fathers and mothers in Israel, claiming to be the Lord’s people? Many have not obeyed the Word of the Lord, and evil, fallen angels appear to them, claiming to be angels of God to instruct them. These will be received by some, and the light given is the light of the fallen angels, which is surely spiritual death to the receiver. Many of our people need to have converted, spiritual eyesight. There is danger of allowing common, earthly transactions to be all-absorbing. As a result, the stamp of the world is upon parents and children. Many have framed a religion of their own choosing and are making their business the grave of their religious serving. (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 7)
Wake up the physicians! Wake up the ministers! In some cases defects of character have become strong. There are many who are being converted into commercialism, and they bring their traits of character into the church, to work out their plans and lead others into temptations. The ones who are themselves being deceived and lurking to lead others into temptation. They direct the unwary feet, and the special strong traits of character have become so firmly fixed that their cases seem hopeless. (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 8)
Let ministers and physicians and all men in office look well to their individual selves. Satan has his fallen angels, who appear as teachers, to instruct every soul who is separating himself from his brethren who are striving for heaven. Patience, tenderness, and reconversion are to be presented line upon line, precept upon precept, under the sanctification of the Holy Spirit of God. Too many money speculators and too many professed teachers, who are unconverted, are leading into false paths. We must wake up and seek the Lord with that humility and meekness that God will accept, because we understand that we are not today prepared for the kingdom of heaven. We must follow on step by step in the way of the Lord, and we shall be overcomers. (25LtMs, Lt 42, 1910, 9)
Lt 44, 1910
My Fellow Workers in the Ministry
Loma Linda, California
April 20, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 148.
To my fellow workers in the ministry
Dear Brethren:
Recently, as we were traveling from San Diego to Loma Linda, our train stopped at Orange, and Elder D. A. Parsons came into the car and told us about the meetings he had been holding near by. He reported a good interest and said that about thirty had taken their stand for the truth. As I hear such reports, I rejoice, and I think of what great results might be accomplished if all our people, imbued with the true missionary spirit, would labor earnestly in the cities and towns, in the highways and byways, for perishing souls, many of whom have never heard the message of truth for this time. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 1)
As a people who have received great light, we have fallen far short of performing our duty in communicating the knowledge of Bible truth to those about us. We are called to be chosen heralds of salvation. It is our sacred work to speak the words of eternal life to souls in darkness. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 2)
We must bring into our work the humility of Christ. Of Him we read, “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt, the foal of an ass.” [Zechariah 9:9.] (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 3)
Among gospel workers there is to be no self-exaltation, but there must be revealed a continual trust in the power of Jesus Christ to save to the uttermost all who come to God by Him. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 4)
Work in the Camp-Meetings
Shall we not, as gospel workers, seek for such preparation of heart, that during the camp-meetings soon to be held, every minister may be in living connection with God. The gospel that we present to save others must be the gospel whose saving power we have experienced in our own lives. In all our meetings, let those who teach and preach dwell decidedly upon the living realities of the Word. We must eat the Word, live the Word, practice the saving gospel message; for unless we eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, daily receiving by grace His divine attributes, we can have no part with Christ. When all the workers have a living connection with God, our camp-meetings will be more effective in winning souls to Christ. Angels will be present in our meetings and will make the divine impressions upon human hearts. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 5)
Let those of you who labor in our camp-meetings meet frequently in a tent or in some retired place and engage together in prayer and counsel. In such seasons of seeking the Lord with sincerity, He will come sacredly near, enabling the laborers to stand unitedly shoulder to shoulder in the work of God. When this is accomplished, there will be harmony of action. There will be a unity and an earnestness that will ensure the rich blessing of God upon the meetings. A holy influence will pervade the encampment. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 6)
I have been repeatedly instructed that among the laborers in our camp-meetings there should be perfect unity. If differences appear, they will be noticed by others and may prove to be stumbling blocks. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 7)
In the early days of this message, our ministers felt it to be a solemn duty, when assembled at a general meeting, to meet together and seek for the unity of the Holy Spirit. Groups of two or three or more would go away together into the grove or into some tent, and after praying together, would come into the meeting, the glory of God revealed in their very countenance. When they spoke to the congregation, they spoke with the meekness and grace of Christ. Their words reached the people; for the Lord had heard their prayers and had prepared the hearts of the hearers to receive the message. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 8)
There is with truly converted hearts a unity and grace that will be recognized. The powers of heaven stand ready to enlighten you in the work of earnest heart-searching. As you pray together, and urge your needs with fervor, confessing your sins, you will receive the evidence of God’s favor. In answer to the petitions of the ministers and other laborers, the Spirit of God will flow forth to the hearts of the people in fervent, melting zeal. The powers of heaven are mighty, and they will prepare souls for the reception of truth. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 9)
In the camp-meetings, time should be set apart daily for prayer in the family tents. While the members of our churches are spiritually asleep and are self-satisfied, our camp-meetings can not exert the full influence that God desires. There must first be a work of repenting of sin and of heartfelt confession. The Lord will work with all who will humble themselves and exalt Jesus Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 10)
It is not wise merely to follow one discourse with another. Let the program be varied. Often when a subject has been presented, it is well to have a social meeting, giving the people an opportunity to express themselves before hurrying their minds on to another subject. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 11)
Satan is working in every conceivable manner to divert minds from the truth of God that would sanctify the soul. No one is free from the danger of becoming ensnared by the sophistry of the enemy. Our only safety is to hide self in Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God. We must rely wholly upon God. He is to be our efficiency. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 12)
Unless the hearts of the people are reached by the heavenly powers, they cannot receive the grace of Christ. We would urge that there be less of argumentative sermonizing and more of Jesus Christ revealed in the discourses. The power of a discourse is not increased by loud ejaculations. Let there be a realizing sense that the Lord must impart of His heavenly grace. We are constantly to work in harmony with the messengers of heaven. “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord.” [Zechariah 4:6.] (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 13)
Our wisdom is to be received from God through prayer. It is our privilege first to talk to God in the secret place of prayer, then in the fervor of the Spirit to give His message to the people, as men who have learned lessons from God. With this preparation, our speech will be acceptable. The atmosphere surrounding us will be holy; for we shall be in co-operation with holy angels. When the melting power of God has subdued our hearts, we shall have power to draw with Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 14)
O how much we have lost by not being converted daily. Many are careless and irreverent. They seem to have but little sense of the reality of the truth. Some who have received decided warnings seem to have no realizing sense of their peril. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 15)
There are men to whom the Lord Jesus has entrusted responsibilities as leaders. Let them hide self in Christ, that they may know what it means to bear responsibilities in the work of soul-saving. A sense of their own unworthiness will lead them to humble, fervent prayer and earnest seeking of the Lord in humility. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 16)
Awake, awake to your danger, all who have been striving for the highest place. Unless you are converted and become as little children, you will certainly be found on the wrong side. You need to die to self, to consecrate daily soul, body, and spirit, to be led and disciplined, and to walk humbly with God. When you are thoroughly aroused, you will seek the Lord with all the heart, that you may find Him. Your heart will be bound up in the love of Christ. Self will sink into its proper place, and Jesus will be all in all to the soul. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 17)
There is hope when all will feel their need of overcoming the spirit of murmuring, complaining, and faultfinding. Some who have manifested this spirit have felt themselves capable of directing others, but they need first to learn to govern themselves. They need to experience the meekness and lowliness of Christ, who gave His life that they might be saved. Those who are truly converted, who have an abiding Christ within, will be surrounded by a pure, holy atmosphere. Such witnesses are needed at this perilous time. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 18)
Fellow laborers, we must arouse from our deathlike stupor. We must be converted to God daily. We must feel our great need of the Holy Spirit, if we are to realize success in presenting Christ as our Saviour. We must pray earnestly. Satan is taking the world captive, and he will if possible deceive the very elect. A lifting up of the soul unto vanity, a feeling of security, a seeming belief of “once in grace, always in grace” is the result of a dangerous deception. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 19)
Unless we humble ourselves daily, we shall be humbled. Satanic agencies are adroitly working to insinuate into our minds his seemingly sublime theories. He knows how to flatter in the most pleasing manner; for he himself was once an exalted, heavenly being. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 20)
But he worshiped his own ideas and plans. He was expelled from the heavenly courts because of his wicked ambition. He had refused to be corrected and could no more claim the mercy and love of God. Justice decreed that he be expelled from heaven. This is a lesson for all who would lay claim to infallibility. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 21)
Our only safety is to realize the necessity of receiving the Holy Spirit, without whose influence we are powerless. Heavenly intelligences stand ready to unite with human agencies. Pray earnestly that you may present the truth in such language that your hearers may know that the grace of God is working through you. There are many who will respond to the words of Christ spoken through the human messenger. (25LtMs, Lt 44, 1910, 22)
Lt 46, 1910
Brethren
Refiled as Lt 47, 1909.
Lt 48, 1910
White, W. C.
Loma Linda, California
April 2, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 145.
Elder W. C. White
My dear son:
I am pleased that you have written to me so often and kept me informed as to where you were. It is very pleasant here. Today is the Sabbath. I spoke on the lawn this forenoon for an hour to an attentive audience, though I was not feeling very strong. We expect to remain here a portion of this week, and after spending a day or two at Fernando, go on to San Diego and Paradise Valley. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 1)
The converting power of truth needs to take hold upon human minds. Men who have been placed in positions of responsibility need to be worked by the Holy Spirit. But while self swells to large proportions, the Holy Spirit can make no impression upon human minds and hearts. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 2)
There needs to be a thorough study of the conditions at Takoma Park. Great care should be exercised as to the character of the workers and of their families. There needs to be in our important centers such an influence as was in the ancient schools of the prophets. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 3)
The leaders in our work should be men in such a living connection with God that they can understand His will and preserve their integrity. The eternal principles of truth are to govern the households of those who have a part to act in the working out of the Lord’s plans. In their families the study of the Bible should be given prominence, and its teachings should exert a decided influence. There is no position in life, no phase of human experience, that should not be influenced by the principles of the Word of God. It is to be studied and obeyed, in order to give to men in positions of trust a preparation to mold the work in right lines. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 4)
In the publishing houses at Washington, Nashville, and Mountain View, the religious phase of the work must be kept uppermost. The workers in the office need to be cleansed, refined, purified; for unless they maintain an active connection with heaven, unconverted self will be revealed in the business transactions. The principles of heaven must be the molding influence in all our institutions. The Word of God is to be the man of our counsel. Then Christlike principles will be brought into every business transaction; for heavenly influences will impart keen perception and sanctified judgment. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 5)
An institution will be honored when the men connected with it honor God and keep His law. Those with whom they deal should be able to make no complaint of fraudulent transactions. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 6)
In some of our institutions there are manifested strange works that are foreign to the heavenly order. When the work of God is carried forward otherwise than in sanctification and truth and righteousness, we may well tremble for the result. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 7)
At Takoma Park there is gathered together a mixed company, some of whom do not understand the nature of the work that is to be carried forward in deeply spiritual lines. The Lord has spoken and called for a reformatory work to be done, but all hearts are not prepared to receive His messages. Let the fortieth and forty-second chapters of Isaiah be studied in connection. I am also bidden to call the attention of our people to a study of the book of Second Peter. There is need that the truths presented in these chapters be considered. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 8)
Men of clear understanding are needed now. No haphazard work is to be done. Let our brethren bear in mind the testimonies given during the recent General Conference in Washington. God calls upon men who will be worked by the Holy Spirit to lead out in a work of thorough reformation. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 9)
It will be well for us to consider what is soon to come upon the earth. Let those who have, as men of supposed knowledge and understanding, been placed in responsible positions, study the future of the people of God. This is no time for trifling or for self-seeking. If the times in which we are living fail to impress our minds seriously, what can reach us? Do not the Scriptures call for a more pure and holy work than we have as yet seen? (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 10)
Those who will humble their hearts before God, and make earnest work of repentance, may, if they will continue the work of soul-cleansing, be enabled to reach a higher standard than they have yet attained. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 11)
During the meeting in Washington, a work should have been done in the hearts of the people that was not done. Hours should have been given to heart-searching that would have led to the breaking up of the fallow ground of the hearts of those who were at the meeting. This would have given them insight to understand the work so essential to be done by them in repentance and confession. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 12)
There are men who have for years felt that the opinions they hold are never to be given up, when these very opinions will lead them into actions that will cause them to be unacceptable to God. It was the cherishing and strengthening of wrong ideas that developed the character of Lucifer. He refused to alter his opinions, and the Lord could not accept of him. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 13)
The church must not be spoiled through the plans of men who think their judgment infallible. Strange things will arise to confuse the minds of God’s people. Deceiving angels will present to the minds of men pleasing sophistries, and some will receive and seek to immortalize theories that would lead to results injurious to the Lord’s work. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 14)
In the second and third chapters of Second Peter, and in the First Epistle of John, we read of men who caused much trouble in the early church. Let all be on their guard; for similar conditions must be met today. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 15)
There must be a decided change in the spiritual condition of the company at Takoma Park. If some who have followed their own unsanctified impressions were to leave Washington, and for a time at least engage in physical labor a portion of each day, a more healthful life current might help to quicken their spiritual life and make them better able to mold and fashion the work after the Lord’s order. (25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, 16)
Lt 50, 1910
Haskell, Brother and Sister
St. Helena, California
May 24, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in 20MR 223.
Elder S. N. Haskell
Box 597
Oakland, California
Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I have been waiting for the time when there should be an investigation of the doctrines that Brother Daniells and others have been advocating. When is this to be? (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 1)
If Elder Daniells thinks that some of the interpretations of Scripture that have been held in the past are not correct, our brethren should listen to his reasons and give candid consideration to his views. All should examine closely their own standing and by a thorough knowledge of the principles of our faith be prepared to vindicate the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 2)
We must not be inconsistent in this matter. God requires clean hearts, pure minds, and intelligent belief in the truth. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] At present there is not that unity that should exist among our brethren, and the Lord says, “Come together.” This should be done as soon as possible, for we have no time to lose. (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 3)
Is not the present a favorable time for you and others of our ministering brethren in this conference to meet with Elder Daniells for a thorough examination of the points of faith regarding which there are different views? (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 4)
“And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: and the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord; and shall make Him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: and He shall not judge after the sight of His eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of His ears: but with righteousness shall He judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and He shall smite the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips shall He slay the wicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of His loins, and faithfulness the girdle of His reins. The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them. And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice’ den. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 5)
“And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and His rest shall be glorious. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set His hand again the second time to recover the remnant of His people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea. And He shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth. The envy of Ephraim shall depart, and the adversaries of Judah shall be cut off: Ephraim shall not envy Judah, and Judah shall not vex Ephraim. But they shall fly upon the shoulders of the Philistines toward the west; they shall spoil them of the east together: they shall lay their hand upon Edom and Moab; and the children of Ammon shall obey them. And the Lord shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with His mighty wind shall He shake His hand over the river, and shall smite it in the seven streams, and make men go over dry shod. And there shall be an highway for the remnant of His people, which shall be left, from Assyria; like as it was to Israel in the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt. (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 6)
“And in that day Thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise Thee; though Thou wast angry with me, Thine anger is turned away, and Thou comfortedst me. Behold God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; He also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. And in that day shall ye say, Praise the Lord, call upon His name, declare His doings among the people, make mention that His name is exalted. (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 7)
“Sing unto the Lord; for He hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth. Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.” [Isaiah 11:1-12:6.] (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 8)
I am directed to write these Scriptures for the consideration of those who shall assemble for the purpose of blending together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among My disciples.” [Isaiah 8:16.] A special work now rests upon us of solemnly investigating these matters, and in the name of the Lord to unify. (25LtMs, Lt 50, 1910, 9)
Lt 52, 1910
White, J. E.
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
June 6, 1910
Previously unpublished. +
My son James Edson White:
I have received and read your letter. I am hardly capable of answering your letter, but will place the letter in the hands of your brother W. C. White. I have been unable to do writing for some weeks. My head becomes dizzy, and my left eye, which has often been afflicted, has troubled me much. And if I do not look on the letter paper, I am relieved from pain. I must now save myself from brain labor for a time. I begin now to be dizzy, and must not tax my eyes. Willie will be in my room soon, and I will then pass the letter into his hands, and we will converse together concerning it. (25LtMs, Lt 52, 1910, 1)
We have had a very hot spell of weather, but it has been cooler yesterday and today. I have visited the school farm, and they are moving along in the preparation for buildings. At the close of the school term, I spoke a short time to them. We all appreciate the advantages of this place, so retired from cities and villages. (25LtMs, Lt 52, 1910, 2)
I have been on the sick list with tired brain and nervous difficulty. I would be so pleased to see you, but will remain at home now. This afternoon Sara is sick, and Dr. Abbott is now called in. We hope this is nothing serious. I am sure it is not. I am thankful that it is something of short duration, but Sara has had quite an ill turn. She will soon be well again. I have good housekeeping help. I thank the Lord for every blessing. (25LtMs, Lt 52, 1910, 3)
I remember you and Emma in my prayers. We are to worship the Lord in the simplicity of true faith and true godliness. We may trust in God and believe His Word in simple, confiding faith. The gracious promise of God is for us continually. I am encouraged in the Lord. For a little time I could not attend and lead in the family worship, reading appropriate Scriptures and leading in prayer. But now I am able to pray and to read the Scriptures. (25LtMs, Lt 52, 1910, 4)
I shall not take on so great burdens as I did in Mountain View and Lodi, where I spoke from the Scriptures for one hour each time, for four times in succession in each place. I have not been well, but I am recovering. I feel so grateful to our heavenly Father that I can trust in His promise, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] I hope you will, my children Edson and Emma, walk carefully, yet hopefully before the Lord, and that His peace may be in your hearts and His praise and thanksgiving proceeding from grateful hearts, because you love God and keep His commandments. (25LtMs, Lt 52, 1910, 5)
Mother.
Lt 54, 1910
Workman, Brother and Sister [W. D.]
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
June 16, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear grandchildren Mabel and Wilfred Workman:
I much desire to see you. I have every reason to be thankful that I am becoming rested. I am beginning to answer some letters. I eat very sparingly. I have a great desire to receive an increase of strength that I may be able to do something. For a time I could not endure the least taxation, but I am surely improving. I do not feel like complaining, but will be thankful for the strength I am gaining. (25LtMs, Lt 54, 1910, 1)
There must be no pretense in our experience, for we have a character to form day by day. The inhabitants of the heavenly universe are ever ready to do the will of the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 54, 1910, 2)
I have been up to the school farm several times, and spoken to the students at the college. They seem to enjoy my visits, and I have given them a talk which they all appreciated very much. There we found our people working just as they did in Cooranbong, Australia. They have certain hours for study, and a part of the time is given to physical exercise, which increases strength of muscle and gives them clearness of mind. Oh how true it is that this kind of education is the most sensible for the health of both body and soul. We want to be true witnesses for God. Evil angels are working to tempt every soul; but if we are watching unto prayer, our hearts drawn out after God, they cannot draw our minds into wrong channels. “All this will I give thee, if thou wilt worship me,” saith the tempter. [Matthew 4:9.] But we all know that it is not safe to follow the suggestions of the enemy. (25LtMs, Lt 54, 1910, 3)
Children, strive to live the truth in all its bearings. Satan will present his temptations in every line possible. But angels of God are charged to be our keepers, if we will be kept. I am charged by the Holy Spirit to exhort our people to watch and pray and barricade their principles, that the Lord shall not be dishonored in any way. The Lord will keep us, soul and body and spirit, if we will be on our guard; for holy angels are close beside us, and we are to act circumspectly and to watch and pray lest we enter into the snares of Satan. (25LtMs, Lt 54, 1910, 4)
The increase of crime in our cities is strong and fearful. But if you watch unto prayer you will be safely guarded, for Christ’s minutemen will help you to be clean, pure witnesses for God. Your steadfast adherence to the truth will give you advantage in bearing a clean, pure testimony for the truth. Thus we may be the Lord’s spiritual helpers at all times and in all places. We may ever be a spiritual power for righteousness and truth, for we may grow in grace and in the knowledge of the will of God through faith, in humble obedience. And I pray that both of you may be able to become the Lord’s messengers in clear, distinct lines, considering that time is short, and the power of satanic agencies will certainly increase. The fulfilment of prophecy concerning these things is ever to be kept in mind. Read the prayer of Christ, offered just before His betrayal by the wicked Judas. It is well to consider that prayer of Christ, who was the only begotten Son of God. (25LtMs, Lt 54, 1910, 5)
Let not any discouragement come upon us under any circumstance. Christ was tried, condemned, and crucified, and He was the Lord’s only begotten Son. Let us daily become consecrated channels through which heavenly life is to flow to others. The Holy Spirit is to animate and pervade the whole church, purifying and cementing hearts. Never lose sight of Jesus Christ, looking unto Him who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. May the Lord bless and keep you unto the end. Grandmother. (25LtMs, Lt 54, 1910, 6)
Lt 56, 1910
Brownsberger, Brother and Sister
St. Helena, California
June 13, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in TSB 223; MM 303-304.
Dear Brother and Sister Brownsberger:
I am pleased to hear from you and to learn that you are endeavoring to be of still greater service to the cause of God. It is your privilege to receive a rich blessing in helping others. You may be “diligent in business,” and also “fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] You may help your associates in the exercise of your judgment and by inculcating the principles of economy. We must spend money judiciously, and I believe that you will endeavor to do this. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 1)
Be ever hopeful, and increase in the grace and wisdom of Christ. I am more than pleased that you can engage in school work and unite your influence with other workers in opening the Scriptures to those who do not understand the Word of God. I believe that the Lord has been leading you. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 2)
It is true that in your associations with your brethren, you will find that you are of different temperaments, but the Lord will give you the grace that you need. The trial of our faith is much more precious than gold, if we can learn to weigh carefully our words and to walk humble and prayerfully before God. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 3)
I am thankful that Sister Rumbough helped you when you needed help. Tell this sister that I thank her; for the cause of God is one. I praise the Lord that He has made it possible for her to do this. May the grace of God rest upon her, and may she have the reward of seeing souls brought to a knowledge of the truth who shall overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 4)
There are times when the work seems to be in a tangle, but we are trusting in the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 5)
In your letter you say, “I have longed to open up my heart before you, and tell you how it seemed to me the providences of the Lord were urging me on to enter the channels of labor that were opening where I had not planned nor even contemplated. How I longed for your counsel when I was sometimes in doubt how to interpret these providences.” (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 6)
Thank the Lord that His lovingkindness changeth not. You say further: “Events have so shaped themselves that I have been carried out upon their current, and I am anxiously looking to the Lord and my brethren for wisdom and counsel.” This is right; counsel and pray together, and walk humble with God, and you will see and understand. You will not be left to walk alone. As you walk trustingly, taking God at His word, He will help you and sustain you. Cast your helpless soul upon the Lord Jesus. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 7)
Whatever may arise, do not be discouraged, but press your way forward. Enter the highways and the byways. Follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit, wherever the way may open. We all need much more of the true faith that works by love and purifies the soul—more prayer, more of the power of God, and more of true Christlikeness. When every worker is trusting in God as his sufficiency, the Holy Spirit will work upon the mind, imparting heavenly wisdom. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 8)
A great mistake has been made in neglecting the work in the cities. For every year’s delay, there have been lost opportunities. Although a few places have been entered, many centers should be established where there would be employed hundreds of workers. In every city there should be a city mission that would be a training school for workers. Many of our brethren must stand condemned in the sight of God because they have not done the very work that God would have them do. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 9)
If our brethren will use their God-given ability to warn the cities, angels of God will surely go before them to make the impression upon the hearts of the people for whom they labor. The Lord has many thousands who have never bowed the knee to Baal. Let not our ministers and our physicians fail nor be discouraged. (25LtMs, Lt 56, 1910, 10)
Lt 58, 1910
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W.
St. Helena, California
June 15, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 6MR 73-77; 10MR 362-364; 6Bio 225. +
Elders Daniells and Prescott
Dear Brethren:
I have a message for you. Those who serve the cause of God need to be men of prayer, men who will heed the instruction that the Lord is giving regarding the prosecution of His work. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 1)
I am deeply impressed as I realize that time is rapidly passing. Every worker should now be daily converted, and every power be employed in doing a work in our large cities that has been strangely neglected. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 2)
I entreat of you to delay not to open the fields that so greatly need attention, and that have scarcely been touched. This is your work. There is need of a reformation in the work that God has pointed out for you to do in opening new fields. There is much to be done in bringing before the world the light of Bible truth in its sacred simplicity, and you both need to be revived by the influence of the Holy Spirit of God. Let the refining grace of truth lead you into the deepest experience of consecration and sanctification. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 3)
You need to realize the necessity of home religion and earnest activity for the glory of God. Let the sanctification of the truth come into your home life. Let there be nothing [common] in your words and actions. May the softening, subduing, and sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit impart to you meekness and gentleness, and may the presence of the Spirit close the door of the heart to the great apostate who is determined, if possible, to gain control. If you could but see as the Lord sees, you would discern how persistently the enemy of souls is seeking to gain the ascendancy. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 4)
I am charged with a message to you both that you need to humble your hearts before God. Neither Elder Prescott nor Elder Daniells is prepared to direct the work of the General Conference; for in some things they have dishonored the Lord God of Israel. High, pure devotion to God is required of men placed in your position. Such a man was Daniel, who in his statesmanship maintained a clean and holy purpose. Such characters are needed now. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 5)
I am to tell you that neither of you is prepared to discern with clear eyesight that which is needed now. You are in danger of voicing sentiments that will be misleading. We are living in the last days of this earth’s history, and we need to have a burning desire to copy the life of Christ. The great work remaining now to be done awaits the efforts of consecrated, loyal men. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 6)
Some things were clearly opened before me during the last meeting I attended in Washington, D.C. But those who ought to have been the first to recognize the movings of the Holy Spirit were not sufficiently impressed to receive the light and to act in harmony with it. The work in the cities has not yet been carried forward as it should be. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 7)
Had the president of the General Conference been thoroughly aroused, he might have seen the situation. But he has not understood the message that God has given. I can no longer hold my peace. I have a message to come to all the people. We must awaken out of sleep. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 8)
Let all now be on guard. We need men who will be taught of God. This is no time to be careless. The Lord calls for ministers to go into the cities, men who realize that satanic agencies are taking counsel together to work with their deceiving influence upon every mind, to the end that the gospel message shall not be proclaimed. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 9)
Time is rapidly passing, and there is much to be done. We have come far short of doing the very work that has been specified by the Holy Spirit to be done, the work of giving the Bible truth to those who know it not. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 10)
Seven men should have been chosen to be united with the president, to set in operation a work in the great cities for those who are perishing without the truth, while no determined efforts are being put forth to save them. These seven men should be men who are wide-awake, men that are humble and meek and lowly in heart. Never should the cities have been neglected as they are; for there has come most decidedly message after message, calling for earnest labor. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 11)
No less than seven men should be chosen to carry the large responsibilities of the work of God in the great cities. And these men should humble themselves daily and seek the Lord most earnestly for sanctified wisdom. They should relate themselves to God as men desirous to be taught. They must be men of prayer who realize the peril of their own souls. What should be the work of these seven men?—They should investigate the needs of the cities and put forth earnest, decided efforts to advance the work. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 12)
Will you not now gather up many of my past messages, study them, and present them to the people? It is high time that our churches should know what has been the word of the Lord. These cities must not remain unwarned. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 13)
The Lord will test and prove every one who professes to be righteous. Many of our people, and among them some who are laborers, are not ready for the Lord’s appearing. For your souls’ sake, my brethren, heed the messages that the Lord sends to you. Let every one take heed to his own soul’s salvation and then work earnestly for the salvation of others. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 14)
If those who are consecrated unite to work untiringly for souls, they can do great good in our conferences and in our camp-meetings. Our camp-meetings must not be treated indifferently. Let the time of these gatherings be regarded as precious, and let it be devoted to seeking the Lord sincerely for a fitness to serve the Lord in humility. In many cases there should be less of lengthy sermonizing and more hunting and fishing for souls. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 15)
Let Christ be the Teacher. If we obey His Word, and do His works, we shall never be found on the background. Presidents of conferences, to whom the Lord has given great light, will you not decide to deal truly with your own souls’ best interests? Walk in the light while you have the light, lest darkness come upon you. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 16)
We find that in some places precise plans are laid down for both public and private labors. Do not hesitate to abandon such a policy. Let the Spirit of the Lord direct His laborers. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 17)
I must warn the president of the General Conference to walk humbly before God, to place himself daily under the sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit. Elder Prescott, in the name of the Lord God of Israel, you may humble yourself. Let your light so shine before all men with whom you associate, that they will take knowledge of you that you have learned of Jesus. Christ says to you, “Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that My house may be filled.” [Luke 14:23.] Those who engage wholeheartedly in this service will be able to bear a testimony that will help to win other souls to Christ. Unless you learn of Him daily, you will be in danger of losing your bearings. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 18)
I must say to you, Humble your own souls before God. Shun every influence that would tend to cheapen the message that should be given to high and low in the cities. Keep open the channel of communication between your soul and God, that those with whom you associate may recognize the voice of Him who gave His life for you. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 19)
I dare not flatter you. Let the divine precepts be brought into your life daily; and when you stand up to address a congregation, the communication between your soul and God will be recognized; for your heart and mind will be open to the impressions of God’s Spirit. Pray to God most earnestly that you may not miss the mark. Study how you can best honor your Redeemer. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 20)
I am to say to you that it is your privilege to walk humbly with Christ Jesus. Unless you do this, you will be in grave danger of receiving spurious ideas from other minds. The truth of God, like gold, does not lie on the surface, but it is obtained only by earnest effort. As you study the life of Christ, you may, if receptive, receive a knowledge that will expand the mental powers and will be a savor of eternal truths that you may bring before the people. Let the divine precepts be brought into the daily life. Let your speech and actions be fashioned after the great standard of righteousness, as exemplified in Christ Jesus. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 21)
I feel an intense interest that in this period of time, no haphazard work shall be done. Satan and his agencies are playing the game of life for our souls. His plan is to steal away the true conviction of the Holy Spirit. For months I have been troubled because I see that many are not discerning the signs of the times. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 22)
You were present at the General Conference last spring when the power of God rested upon me as I delivered His messages. If those messages had been received and acted upon, I should not now be suffering under the burden that I am carrying. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 23)
I dare not be silent longer. Angels of great power were expelled from heaven because of the spirit of self-exaltation. They felt that they should be above Christ. These fallen angels are now at work to deceive those that will give heed to their deceptions and to delay and hinder the work of God. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 24)
“Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyrus, and say thus unto him, Thus saith the Lord God; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God. Every precious stone was thy covering, the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold: the workmanship of thy tabrets, and of thy pipes was prepared in thee in the day that thou wast created. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 25)
“Thou are the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee.... Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.” [Ezekiel 28:12-17.] (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 26)
Read the whole of the twenty-eighth chapter of Ezekiel carefully, and pray that you may understand the working of God. We are dealing with fallen angels and with fallen men. I would that our conference presidents, our physicians, and all our ministers might understand the message that the Lord gave me in Washington. I did not speak in my own strength. But some of the very ones who needed most the warnings given have chosen to follow on in their own ideas, and I am sorry that their hearts are not awake to the work of the hour. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 27)
Our brethren should study carefully the instruction given in Gospel Workers. Valuable instruction is given in the chapter “Personal Effort.” (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 28)
Let our brethren east and west fast and pray earnestly and humble their souls before God. O that all would be reconverted and not give up till they know that they are following on to know the Lord. Those who humbly follow on to know the Lord will know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 29)
There is encouragement for all in the third chapter of Zechariah: (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 30)
“And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel. And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 31)
“And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment. And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the Lord stood by. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 32)
“And the angel of the Lord protested unto Joshua, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; If thou wilt walk in My ways, and if thou wilt keep My charge, then thou shalt also judge My house, and shalt also keep My courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by. Hear now, O Joshua, the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they are men wondered at. (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 33)
“For, behold, I will bring forth My servant the BRANCH. For behold the stone that I have laid before Joshua; upon one stone shall be seven eyes: behold I will engrave the graving thereof, saith the Lord of hosts, and I will remove the iniquity of that land in one day. In that day, saith the Lord of hosts, shall ye call every man his neighbor under the vine and under the fig tree.” (25LtMs, Lt 58, 1910, 34)
Lt 58a, 1910
Irwin, G. A.
Napa, California
June 30, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 153.
Elder G. A. Irwin
Dear Brother:
The impression has been received by some at the camp-meeting that I made reference to Elder Haskell, when I spoke of the effort that has been made to arouse our people to sense their responsibilities regarding the work to be done in the large cities. (25LtMs, Lt 58a, 1910, 1)
I spoke of the duty resting upon conference presidents to understand the necessities of our large, congested cities, and of the necessity that special attention shall be given to these neglected, unworked cities; and I referred to the fact that the president of our General Conference has neglected his duty regarding this work. It is time that there shall be a general waking up to our responsibilities in this matter. There is a great work neglected that should be faithfully undertaken. (25LtMs, Lt 58a, 1910, 2)
Elder Haskell has endeavored to do his duty; he has worked faithfully, and goes beyond his physical strength, and needs to be restrained in the place of being urged to do more work. (25LtMs, Lt 58a, 1910, 3)
I have written this because no names were mentioned, and it was supposed by some that I referred to Elder Haskell. (25LtMs, Lt 58a, 1910, 4)
Lt 58b, 1910
Rasmussen, Anna
St. Helena, California
July 10, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear Anna [Rasmussen]:
I have just read your letter and am very glad to hear from you. I am thankful that the Lord preserved me in my old age. We wish to do just what you wish us to do with your means. We are now opening the work in new fields. I mean to send you copies of letters if I can get them copied. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 1)
November 26 I shall be eighty-three years old, and still I am writing and getting before the people all I possibly can. I would be much pleased to have an interview with you. But we will all labor to finish our course here with joy, in anticipation of meeting you again where there is no more sickness, pain, or death. Let us keep up courage in the Lord. You are not one of the complaining class. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 2)
I am hopeful in the Lord. Now I am seeing, or rather, hearing of the parties that are opening new territory in fields that have not yet been entered. I have been shown houses that could be secured to carry forward the work of the Lord. Now this is so. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 3)
Elder Olsen writes me good, encouraging news; and when you shall want to leave your means, I shall be glad to see the same invested in procuring some place where our workers can, some of them, settle outside of the busy centers; and I propose that this shall be done. I have had the representations of buildings that are of value standing without being occupied. They can be purchased cheap. I mean to help, if possible, to secure some of these buildings, out of the noisy cities, that our workers may not be compelled to settle in the crowded cities. Places have been found where wealthy people have exchanged for elegant mansions. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 4)
Brother Olsen has written me a good letter, giving account of his experience, in being one of the number who is busily engaged in this kind of work, securing homes for the mission fields that have never been entered, which should have been entered ten years ago. But now the work is truly started to give the gospel message in our unworked cities. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 5)
I am not sound in health. I shall, however, go out to Loma Linda and Paradise Valley and surrounding openings. The light must be given in all places possible. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 6)
If you choose to entrust me with the means you can spare, I will not let it be disposed of without your direction. Good is the Lord to arouse our people at this late date to give the gospel message to those who have not heard it. Thus your means can act a definite part. It is right, and also I would advise you, to place your means to supply your wants while you live. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 7)
Time is short, and the delay to work new fields had made many souls unapproachable. But I mean to do all I can to prepare the way of the Lord. The whole Bible is encouraging missionary work to be done. Now the work is begun. We will praise the Lord that our cities shall have the warning. For twenty years this has been kept before our people. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 8)
May the Lord bless you, is our prayer. (25LtMs, Lt 58b, 1910, 9)
Lt 59, 1910
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W.
June 1910
Fragment only; not on file.
Lt 60, 1910
McReynolds, C.
St. Helena, California
July 13, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in 15MR 43-46. +
Elder C. McReynolds
Dear Brother:
My attention has been called to a letter from you to W. C. White, in which you speak of some school problems which are perplexing you. It seems that some teachers think that none of the children and young people whose parents live in the vicinity of a school should have school privileges unless they live with their teachers in the school home. This is to me a new and strange idea. There are young people whose home influences have been such that it would be greatly to their advantage to live for a time in a well-regulated school home. And for those who live where they must of necessity leave their own homes in order to enjoy school privileges, the school homes are a great blessing. But the parental home is, and ever should be, the best place for young children where under the proper training of their parents they may enjoy the care and discipline of a religious family, administered by their own parents. (25LtMs, Lt 60, 1910, 1)
The Lord has given children to their parents as a most solemn charge. The parents should watch over the souls of their children as those that must give account. Fathers and mothers have a sacred responsibility so to train their children that they may meet them in the kingdom of God and rejoice in their salvation. The voice of prayer is to be heard in the home, and the children are to be instructed line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. The time is short. Parents must learn to practice patience in the intelligent training of their children. Every father and mother is to be a laborer together with God. The parents and children form a family firm, and whenever possible, they should be kept together. Let not parents allow words of scolding to spoil their influence. To belong to the family firm should be regarded as a sacred privilege. Let the children be patiently and kindly restrained from evil. This restraint ministered with mercy and tenderness exercised intelligently will be a constant school for the children. There are different temperaments in the family, and it is often necessary to let patience have her perfect work. Children from such homes will be a blessing to the school. (25LtMs, Lt 60, 1910, 2)
Regarding the youth that are of suitable age to attend a boarding school, let us avoid making unnecessary and arbitrary rules that would separate from their parents those who live in the vicinity of our schools. In many families the parents need the help that the children can render outside of school hours, and all who will do their work faithfully and attend the school during the allotted period should be allowed to have the benefits of the school without question. The father and mother should not be urged to relinquish their loving watchcare over their children. Unless the parents are convinced that it would be for the best interests of their children to place them under the school-home discipline, they should be permitted to keep them under their own control as far as possible. In some places parents living near the school may see that their children would be benefited by living at the school home, where they can receive certain lines of instruction that they could not receive so well at their own homes. But let it not be urged that children must in all cases be separated from their parents in order to get the advantages of any one of our schools. To insist that in every case students shall leave their homes and be under the discipline of others is unnatural, and would create a condition of things that would not be healthful. May the Lord give wisdom to these teachers of whom you write, that they may reason wisely from cause to effect. Parents are the natural guardians of their children, and they have a solemn responsibility to oversee their education and training. Can we not understand that the parents, who have watched for years the development of their children, should know best the kind of training and management they should have in order to bring out and cultivate the best traits of character in them? I should advise that children from homes within two or three miles of a school should be allowed to attend the school while living at home and having the benefits of parental influences. (25LtMs, Lt 60, 1910, 3)
Wherever possible, let the family be held together. The elder members should relieve the mother as much as possible. Both boys and girls can lighten the burdens of the home. And the blessing that the children bring to the home life is of the highest value. Each member is to come close to Christ in practicing self-denial and self-sacrifice. Each may be a help and blessing to every other, if all will act out the principles of the heavenly family. (25LtMs, Lt 60, 1910, 4)
Let all seek in the home, in the school room, on the playground, to be laborers together with God. The highest education possible is to excel in rightdoing. All should strive together to make the school a success. Let old and young be diligent. Let all teachers and students do their best to make the home and the school a sanctified whole. Let us strive so to conduct our schools that they may meet the requirements of Jesus Christ who gave His precious life as a gift to the world. Let teachers and students guard themselves in word and action and in spirit. Let it be seen that all who compose the school are seeking to the utmost of their ability to improve, as mortals who appreciate what Jesus Christ has done in their behalf. He has cleared the way that through His grace there may be victory. (25LtMs, Lt 60, 1910, 5)
May the members of the school of which you write gain for themselves the crown of glory when the reward is given to those who overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. (25LtMs, Lt 60, 1910, 6)
Lt 61, 1910
Burden, J. A.
St. Helena, California
April 27, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in LLM 542-546.
Elder J. A. Burden
Dear Brother:
I wish to express to you some thoughts that should be kept before the sanitarium workers. That which will make them a power for good is the knowledge that the great Medical Missionary has chosen them for this work, that He is their chief instructor, and that it is ever their duty to recognize Him as their teacher. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 1)
The Lord has shown us the evil of depending upon the strength of earthly organizations. He has instructed us that the commission of the medical missionary is received from the very highest authority; He would have us understand that it is a mistake to regard as most essential the education given by physicians who reject the authority of Christ, the greatest physician who ever lived upon the earth. We are not to accept and follow the views of men who refuse to recognize God as their teacher, but who learn of men and are guided by manmade laws and restrictions. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 2)
During the night of April 26, many things were opened before me. I was shown that now in a special sense we as a people are to be guided by divine instruction. Those fitting themselves for medical missionary work should fear to place themselves under the direction of worldly doctors, to imbibe their sentiments and peculiar prejudices, and to learn to express their ideas and views. They are not to depend for their influence upon worldly teachers. They should be “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” [Hebrews 12:2.] (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 3)
The Lord has instructed us that in our institution of education, we should ever be striving for the perfection of character to be found in the life of Christ, and in His instruction to His disciples. Having received our commission from the highest authority, we are to educate, educate, educate in the simplicity of Christ. Our aim must be to reach the highest standard in every feature of our work. He who healed thousands with a touch and a word is our physician. The precious truths contained in His teachings are to be our front guard and our rereward. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 4)
The standard set for our sanitariums and schools is a high one, and a great responsibility rests upon the physicians and teachers connected with these institutions. Efforts should be made to secure teachers who will instruct after Christ’s manner of teaching, regarding this of more value than any human methods. Let them honor the educational standards established by Christ and, following His instruction, give their students lessons in faith and in holiness. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 5)
Christ was sent of the Father to represent His character and will. Let us follow His example in laboring to reach the people where they are. Teachers who are not particular to harmonize with the teachings of Christ, and who follow the customs and practices of worldly physicians, are out of line with the charge that the Saviour has given us. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 6)
It is not necessary that our medical missionaries follow the precise track marked out by medical men of the world. They do not need to administer drugs to the sick. They do not need to follow the drug medication in order to have influence in their work. The message was given me that if they would consecrate themselves to the Lord, if they would seek to obtain under men ordained of God a thorough knowledge of their work, the Lord would make them skilful. Connected with the divine Teacher, they will understand that their dependence is upon God and not upon the professedly wise men of the world. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 7)
Some of our medical missionaries have supposed that a medical training according to the plans of worldly schools is essential to their success. To those who have thought that the only way to success is by being taught by worldly men, and by pursuing a course that is sanctioned by worldly men, I would now say, Put away such ideas. This is a mistake that should be corrected. It is a dangerous thing to catch the spirit of the world; the popularity which such a course invites will bring into the work a spirit which the Word of God cannot sanction. The medical missionary who would become efficient, if he will search his own heart and consecrate himself to Christ, may by diligent study and faithful service learn how to grasp the mysteries of his sacred calling. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 8)
At Loma Linda, at Washington, at Wahroonga, Australia, and in many other sanitariums established for the promulgation of the work of the third angel’s message, there are to come to the physicians and to the teachers new ideas, a new understanding of the principles that must govern the medical work. An education is to be given that is altogether in harmony with the teachings of the Word of God. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 9)
In the first chapter of Ephesians, beginning with (verse 2), we read: “Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: according as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love: having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace; wherein He hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He hath purposed in Himself.” [Verses 2-9.] Study the whole of this chapter, and grasp the assurances that are given again and again for your acceptance. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 10)
It is a lack of faith in the power of God that leads our physicians to lean so much upon the arm of the law, and to trust so much to the influence of worldly powers. The truly converted man and woman who will study these words of inspiration spoken by the apostle Paul may learn to claim in all their depth and fulness the divine promises. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 11)
I am charged to present these Scriptures to our people, that they may understand that those who do not believe the Word of God can not possibly present to those who desire to become acceptable medical missionaries the way by which they will become most successful. Christ was the greatest physician the world has ever known; His heart was ever touched with human woe. He has a work for those to do who will not place their dependence upon worldly powers. God’s true commandment-keeping people will be instructed by Him. The true medical missionary will be wise in the treatment of the sick, using the remedies that nature provides. And then he will look to Christ as the true Healer of disease. The principles of health reform brought into the life of the patient, the use of nature’s remedies, and the co-operation of divine agencies in behalf of the suffering will bring success. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 12)
Satan will try to place barriers in the way of the true medical missionary. He will seek to bring discouragement upon those who recognize the commandments of God and are determined to obey them. We must be careful not to carry our views of health reform to extremes, thus making it “health deform.” Our food should be plain and free from all objectionable elements, but let us be careful that it is always palatable and good. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 13)
A time will come when medical missionaries of other denominations will become jealous and envious of the influence exerted by Seventh-day Adventists who are working in these lines. They will feel that influence is being secured by our workers which they ought to have. We should have in various places men of extraordinary ability, who have obtained their diplomas in medical schools of the best reputation, who can stand before the world as fully qualified and legally recognized physicians. Let God-fearing men be wisely chosen to go through the training essential in order to obtain such qualifications. They should be prudent men who will remain true to the principles of the message. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 14)
These should obtain the qualifications and the authority to conduct an educational work for our young men and our young women who desire to be trained for medical missionary work. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 15)
Now while the world is favorable toward the teaching of the health reform principles, moves should be made to secure for our own physicians the privilege of imparting medical instruction to our young people who would otherwise be led to attend the worldly medical colleges. The time will come when it will be more difficult than it now is to arrange for the training of our young people in medical missionary lines. (25LtMs, Lt 61, 1910, 16)
Lt 62, 1910
My Brethren in the Ministry
St. Helena, California
August 3, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 1SM 167-168.
To My Brethren in the Ministry
Dear Fellow Workers:
I have words to speak to Brethren Butler, Loughborough, Haskell, Smith, Gilbert, Daniells, Prescott, and all who have been active in urging their views in regard to the meaning of “the daily” of Daniel 8. This is not to be made a test question, and the agitation that has resulted from its being treated as such has been very unfortunate. Confusion has resulted, and the minds of some of our brethren have been diverted from the thoughtful consideration that should have been given to the work that the Lord has directed should be done at this time in our cities. This has been pleasing to the great enemy of our work. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 1)
The light given me is that nothing should be done to increase the agitation upon this question. Let it not be brought into our discourses and dwelt upon as a matter of great importance. We have a great work before us, and we have not an hour to lose from the essential work to be done. Let us confine our public efforts to the presentation of the important lines of truth on which we are united, and on which we have clear light. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 2)
I would bring to your attention the last prayer of Christ, as recorded in John 17. There are many subjects upon which we can speak—sacred testing truths, beautiful in their simplicity. On these you may dwell with intense earnestness. But let not “the daily,” or any other subject that will arouse controversy among brethren, be brought in at this time; for this will delay and hinder the work that the Lord would have the minds of our brethren centered upon just now. Let us not agitate questions that will reveal a marked difference of opinion, but rather let us bring from the Word the sacred truths regarding the binding claims of the law of God. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 3)
Our ministers should seek to make the most favorable presentation of truth. So far as possible, let all speak the same things. Let the discourses be simple and treating upon vital subjects that can be easily understood. When all our ministers see the necessity of humbling themselves, then the Lord can work with them. We need now to be reconverted, that angels of God may co-operate with us, making a sacred impression upon the minds of those for whom we labor. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 4)
We must blend together in the bonds of Christlike unity; then our labors will not be in vain. Draw in even cords, and let no contentions be brought in. Reveal the unifying power of truth, and this will make a powerful impression on human minds. In unity there is strength. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 5)
This is not a time to make prominent unimportant points of difference. If some who have not had a strong living connection with the Master reveal to the world their weakness of Christian experience, the enemies of the truth who are watching us closely will make the most of it, and our work will be hindered. Let all cultivate meekness and learn lessons from Him who is meek and lowly in heart. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 6)
The subject of “the daily” should not call forth such movements as have been made. As a result of the way this subject has been handled by men on both sides of the question, controversy has arisen and confusion has resulted. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 7)
The action of Brother Leon Smith in publishing a tract containing condemnation of his brethren and of their belief was not endorsed by God. And to Elder Butler I will say, The Lord has not placed upon you a burden regarding this matter. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 8)
I was pained to hear that Elder Daniells, knowing that there was a difference of opinion regarding this matter among our leading brethren, should urge this matter to the front, as was done in some places. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 9)
Others of our brethren have not been guided by wisdom and have not reasoned clearly from cause to effect regarding the results of their efforts to uphold their views regarding the interpretation of “the daily.” While the present condition of difference of opinion regarding this subject exists, let it not be made prominent. Let all contention cease. At such a time silence is eloquence. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 10)
The duty of God’s servants at this time is to preach the Word in the cities. Christ came from the heavenly courts to this earth in order to save souls, and we, as almoners of His grace, need to impart to the inhabitants of the great cities a knowledge of His saving truth. (25LtMs, Lt 62, 1910, 11)
Lt 64, 1910
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
St. Helena, California
July 16, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in PC 42-44.
Dear Brother and Sister Kress:
I have received and read your letters. I will say that I have not received light that your connection with the sanitarium at Takoma Park should be broken. This connection may be a special advantage to you in your missionary work in the cities, and you may also be a help to the health institution in Washington. As the Lord’s servant, set apart to the gospel ministry, you should be fully qualified to speak the truth, pointing sinners to the great Healer of both soul and body. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 1)
I have had no light that you should wholly disconnect from the sanitarium. But it would not be consistent for you to act as head physician; for your work in the cities will lead to your absence from the institution a large part of the time. Your ministerial labor will not disqualify you for counseling with your brethren regarding the work of the institution, nor for doing the work of a physician in the sanitarium while you are there. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 2)
You are both to be led and taught of God. If you individually seek Him daily, you will have the Holy Spirit’s guidance. I can see that you greatly need divine wisdom to enable you to serve in two positions of responsibility—as a skilful physician, and also as a preacher of the gospel. There must be a daily conversion in order to blend successfully the work for body and soul. I cannot tell you in detail just how this should be done, but I know that you can do an important work in the ministry of the Word, in instructing the souls for whom you labor to believe in Jesus Christ. Encourage the suffering ones to receive treatment from the great Physician for the healing of both body and soul. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 3)
A sanitarium is a most favorable place in which to set forth convincing truths. I would that all our physicians might have a living connection with the great Chief Physician, that they might speak wisely to the suffering sick. Those who minister in our sanitariums need to be sanctified, that they may speak words in season, presenting Christ as the healer of sin-sick souls, as well as of afflicted and diseased bodies. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 4)
Not a poisonous drug should be used. When you have a case that does not respond to the use of simple remedies, take it to the Lord in prayer. Talk to Him as the only one who can help. Quote simple Scripture with tenderness and faith. As Christ’s chosen physicians, speak His words, sometimes to convince of sin, but always to inspire hope. When laboring for the patients, consider that their sensibilities must be awakened to the fact that Christ came to our world to save perishing souls. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 5)
I am pained that there are not more decided efforts put forth to win souls to a belief of the truth. I am pained at the indifference manifested in our institutions, established for the care of the sick, by many who know the truth. Many who come to these institutions are ignorant of the great life-and-death question, and they need to be enlightened. But among those connected with our sanitariums, there seems to be a lack of earnest seeking after God, that they may speak words that will exert an influence for the truth. This is a work too often left undone in our churches and in our health institutions. Those connected with these institutions should be representatives of Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 6)
In your labors you are acting in Christ’s stead. The mind must be kept open to receive impressions from Him. If you understand the gospel message, remember that you are accountable, if, when you come in contact with those who are unsaved, you do not represent the truth in its saving influence. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 7)
I am unable to describe to you the impression made upon my mind when I realize that many, even among our brethren who are teachers of the Word, are not daily converted. Christ stands ready to impart wisdom and grace; but those in important positions of responsibility cannot guide others in the right paths unless they are converted daily. If they rely upon their own supposed wisdom, they will mislead others who look to them, believing that these ministers understand the sacred work entrusted to them. Those who accept responsible charges need to be on their guard, and by humble prayer to be sanctified, refined, and purified. Unless they sense their true condition, and unless they become Christlike, they can never reveal the truth as it is in Jesus. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 8)
In the night seasons I seem to be addressing large congregations in the words: (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 9)
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.” [Isaiah 58:1-2.] (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 10)
The Lord has a decided work to be done now. We need ministers of the gospel who are true to the knowledge of the truth. Many fables of every character will be brought in as subjects of discussion. We must have good, sanctified common sense in dealing with human minds. May the Lord sanctify our hearts and minds, that we may lay hold upon the important work to be done. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 11)
I am writing to my brethren most earnestly; for I cannot hold my peace. Night after night I am in agony. There is a world to be warned. The neglect to do work that should have been started in various lines many years ago has made the work much harder to plan for and to execute. May the Lord now give wisdom. If the workers make a complete consecration of soul, mind, and body, much may be accomplished. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 12)
I have read letters telling of the meetings held in New York City regarding the city work. As you see the magnitude of the work that needs to be done, you can better understand why I have felt so keenly the necessity of having our people arouse that they may sense the situation. May the Lord teach our ministers how to take up the great work that should now interest every worker. I have more hope as I see that the situation is being sensed, and that our leading brethren seem determined to take hold of the work earnestly. I shall now feel more courage. (25LtMs, Lt 64, 1910, 13)
Lt 66, 1910
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
St. Helena, California
July 31, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in 15MR 76-79.
Dear Brother and Sister Kress:
I am glad to hear from you again. Do not become discouraged. You are not young converts. In the night seasons I am saying to you, Do not fail nor be discouraged. If our cities are to be worked, every one of us who knows the truth must put on the gospel armor, and through sanctification of the truth we shall receive from the Lord the help that we must have. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 1)
Talk faith, and make your faith perfect by your works. Even though you feel that some of your brethren do not manifest that faith that works by love and purifies the soul, you have opportunities to obtain a rich experience. Move steadily forward, putting forth all the powers of sanctified intellect. Keep ever in view the great Pattern, Christ Jesus. Work out your own salvation, revealing in your life the work of the grace of God. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 2)
No man can do your work for you. Pray in faith. You and your wife have had a valuable experience. The history of the Redeemer is full of meaning to us. “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from Him; He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” [Isaiah 53:3-5.] (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 3)
My brother and sister, let us seek for an increase of faith. There should be more glorifying of God. The Lord would have your faith shine forth with the light that Christ imparts. Do not, I entreat of you, be unbelieving. Talk faith, talk hope and courage. As you talk faith, your faith and confidence in the Lord will be increased. His Word is full of encouragement. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 4)
Your daughter also needs to gain an experience with you in service for the Master. You three should be a precious band, through Jesus Christ gaining glorious victories. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 5)
I am thankful that yesterday I had the courage to walk out in faith and speak to our people assembled at the sanitarium on the hillside. This is the first time that I have felt able to attempt to speak for a number of weeks. The sanitarium chapel is being enlarged, and the meeting was held outside under the trees. I spoke from the third chapter of Revelation. Here is a picture of the spiritual life of many, and precious promises held out to the overcomer. I was able to make all hear, and felt a rich blessing myself in putting forth the effort. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 6)
I am instructed to say to all our people, It is best to bear the yoke of Christ. Let each be so glad for an opportunity to work with Christ in bearing His message to the cities that there will be no inclination to murmur. Christ calls for the heart to be surrendered to Him, that He may mold and fashion it after the divine similitude. When the spirit is worked by the Holy Spirit, the efforts to reach souls will be effectual. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 7)
Christ alone can accomplish the work, but you are to act your part with Him. When the truth of God convicts the conscience and the words spoken bear the stamp of the Divine, hearts will be touched and souls will be converted to the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 8)
There is too much of unconverted self mingled in the work. In working the cities, angels of God are to co-operate with the minister of the Word. The mind, the will, the words, the spirit of the teacher must be under the control of the great Teacher. The truths of the Word are sacred. Teach the seeker after truth the words of the Infinite One: “A new heart will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 9)
As the mind is awakened to yield to the teachings of Christ, Satan will seek in every possible way to bring them under the influence of men who have departed from the faith. Let every soul be wide-awake. The watchmen are not only to give warning to others, but they are to keep ever before them the truths of the Word. Not a word of discouragement is ever to fall from their lips. Let the members of the families in their homes unite to put away all unprofitable talking, and to be instant in prayer. Let them go to their neighbors and talk to them of the truth. This is the instruction to be given in all our churches, in all our health institutions. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 10)
Fathers and mothers, in full assurance of faith, plead with your sons and daughters. Let them not hear one impatient word from your lips. If necessary, make to your children a heartfelt confession for having allowed them to follow in the path of vanity and to displease the Lord who withheld not His Son from a lost world, that all might receive pardon and forgiveness of sin. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 11)
Every obstacle to the redemption of God’s people is to be removed by the opening of His Word and the presentation of the plain “Thus saith the Lord.” “Every valley shall be exalted; and every mountain and hill (of difficulty) shall be made low: and the crooked places shall be made straight, and the rough places plain.” [Isaiah 40:4.] (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 12)
The true light is now to shine forth; for “darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people.” [Isaiah 60:2.] The truth of the living God is to appear in contrast with error. Proclaim the glad tidings: we have a Saviour who has given His life, that all who will repent and believe in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 13)
When those who have been doing imperfect service for the Master understand and repent of their unconverted influence, then the Lord will pardon and will unite with them in their efforts. Fathers and mothers who have in various ways indulged your children to their hurt, God desires you to redeem the time. Take heed while it is called Today. Parents, is God enthroned in your conscience? Is truth occupying the citadel of your soul? (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 14)
Special work needs to be done in Melrose and Boston. Brother and Sister Starr connected with you can do an important work in that great city. You will need to guard carefully the point of undue expense, lest the work be retarded. The Lord will open ways before you if you will move forward in faith and hope. Let not one word of discouragement come from your lips. (25LtMs, Lt 66, 1910, 15)
Lt 68, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
August 11, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 123-124.
Elder A. G. Daniells
Dear Brother:
I have received your letters regarding the counsel held in New York and the efforts that are being made in behalf of the multitudes in the large cities. I have also read your letters of August 4 and 5 to W. C. White. I intended to answer your letters immediately, but I have been carrying so heavy a burden that I thought I must wait till I could write you clearly. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 1)
The position you have taken is in the order of the Lord, and now I would encourage you with the words, Go forward as you have begun, using your position of influence as president of the General Conference for the advancement of the work we are called upon to do. In this way you can disappoint the enemy. You will need all the influence that the Lord gives you as a wise leader to encourage your associates in responsibility to take hold of the city work and to carry it forward in a sensible way. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 2)
I am glad for this letter you have sent me, telling us of what you are doing. The light that I have from the Lord is that this same experience will be needed by others. You will now be able, not only to take up the work yourself, but also to exercise your influence as president of the General Conference to lead out in the very work that the Lord has appointed to be done. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 3)
You cannot be spared now from the work that has been so long left undone. The Lord has given you an opportunity to redeem the time and cover the neglect of the past. I can now take hold with you in full confidence for the doing of the work that rests upon us. The Lord in His mercy will pardon the failure of the past. He will be your helper. He will give you sustaining grace, and we will draw with you and give you all the help we can to use your position of influence as president of the conference, and to work wisely in the education of others to labor in the cities. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 4)
Your influence will be under the Lord’s wise care; and although you may meet with hard and trying experiences in this great effort, if you exercise the wisdom and the sanctification of Christ, you will have power and grace from above and the Lord’s approval. He will impart unto you wisdom and power and will also bring to you the joy of success. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 5)
I am so thankful that you have written us how you have given yourself to this work. Angels of God will be with you, and you can use all the influence that your office as president of the conference has given you, to encourage others to take up the same work. I will not write a word to discourage you or to weaken your hands, but will say, Go forward in the name of the Lord. His name is a power against the enemy. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 6)
I have had several days of illness. It seems as though Satan would take my life. I am weak, but not discouraged. Several nights it has seemed that I could not live till morning, but I am now venturing to write this, lest the enemy shall discourage you. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 7)
In conclusion I will say, Redeem the lost time of the past nine years by going ahead now with the work in our cities, and the Lord will bless and sustain you. (25LtMs, Lt 68, 1910, 8)
Lt 70, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
NP
August 11, 1910 [typed]
Portions of this letter are published in 7MR 45; 10MR 49-51, 336-337, 364-366.
Elder A. G. Daniells
Dear Brother:
For several months I have been instructed of the Lord that a decided change must be made from this time onward in the carrying forward of our work. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 1)
Message after message has come to me from the Lord concerning the dangers surrounding you and Elder Prescott. I have seen that Satan would have been greatly pleased to see Elders Prescott and Daniells undertake the work of a general overhauling of our books that have done a good work in the field for years. But neither of you is called of God to that work. If you were to enter upon such a work, much time would be employed that should be given to the proclamation of the last warning message to an impenitent world. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 2)
The Lord would have been pleased had you and Elder Prescott and your associates taken upon yourselves the burden of giving to the inhabitants of the great cities the last warning message. This is a work that He has been calling us to do these many years. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 3)
In some respects, you and Brother Prescott have done a strange work. It is not for the best interests that either one of you be associated together so closely as heretofore. It is not best for you to follow a way of your own choosing. You both have need of the sanctification of the Holy Spirit of God. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 4)
In this period of the world’s history, God’s servants are to have confidence in his ability to qualify men to do His work in various ways to the glory of His name. Those appointed to lead out in the management of His cause in the earth are to have faith that He is able to perfect a work in righteousness, even through the instrumentality of imperfect workmen. Those in charge of the work are now to seek to build up, to encourage, to strengthen, but not to discourage, or to pull to pieces that which has been begun. A building-up policy has not always been followed. Representations have passed before me which indicate that you and Elder Prescott and others united with you have been inclined to search out things to be criticized or condemned in our printed publications. Were encouragement given you, changes and revisions would be made in accordance with the ideas that you have in mind. But you must never forget that Satan, disguised as an angel of light, is always ready to encourage anything that would lead to a loss of confidence in our denominational literature. He would be pleased to keep many minds employed in picking flaws in publications that God has blessed. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 5)
The enemy of all truth well knows that if minds can be kept occupied in searching for and giving wide publicity to imperfections in books that have been printed and widely circulated, great weakness will be brought to our work. Time would pass rapidly, and the great work needed in our cities would remain undone. Besides, there would be created in the minds of many an uncertainty as to the value of our publications that have done a good work, and many minds would become absorbed in a further search for possible errors in our literature. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 6)
The result would be the creation of a feeling of uncertainty in the minds of many as to the value of our denominational literature in general. If we should now sow broadcast seeds of doubt as to the correctness of our printed books and tracts, and encourage the thought that there must needs be a general revision of our published books, a work would have begun that the Lord has not appointed us to do. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 7)
Even a suggestion as to inaccuracies would, if made public, lead some to vindicate their course of action in spending much time in an effort to search for flaws and to find fault. It is not safe to set some minds running in such channels of thought, as this would lead to a harvest of doubt and unbelief. I know whereof I speak; for the Lord has opened this matter before me. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 8)
I am bidden to counsel you to leave the work of book revision and devote the entire energies of your mind to the presentation of Bible truth to souls who have never heard the third angel’s message. If you and Brother Prescott were to sow broadcast seeds of uncertainty and distrust in the minds of others, God would call you to a stern account for this evil. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 9)
In the night season, I have seen men looking over our printed books in search of something to criticize, and the adversary was standing by their side, making suggestions to their minds. The natural result of unwise criticism would be to bring infidelity into our ranks. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 10)
The Lord Jesus says to the president of the General Conference, “My grace is sufficient for thee; for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” [2 Corinthians 12:9.] Warn the cities. Time is precious. Repent and be converted. Repent, and redeem the time. Let everything be done that can be done to atone for your past neglect. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 11)
When the president of our conference is thoroughly converted, the message he will give will be after the similitude of the divine. He will speak as a man understanding the solemn responsibility of declaring the whole counsel of God to the churches over which the Holy Ghost hath made him overseer. He is to see that the flock of God have the truth impressed on their souls. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 12)
Elder Daniells, let your heart and mind be wholly consecrated to do the will of God, and labor for a similar work to take place in your family. Take up the long-neglected work in the cities. Plead with God most earnestly to set your mind to running in right channels. The Lord has not laid upon you nor upon any one else in Washington the work that some have fancied ought to be done. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 13)
Satan and all his hosts are on the battlefield. The enemy of our souls has acted the part of a busy agent in presenting the thought that many of our books now in print are in need of general revision. He would be glad to have our brethren receive the impression that many changes must be made. He would delight to insinuate questioning and doubt into the minds of many of our people. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 14)
I have been instructed that the Lord is not the author of the proposal to make many changes in books already published. If information regarding this sort of work, even as regards the few instances where revisions are needed, should become widespread, seeds of doubt would spring up in many minds. Satan would be busy at work implanting seeds of distrust and unbelief, and it would require much labor to remedy the evil that would be wrought. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 15)
The enemy of truth, through the ministry of fallen angels, would be pleased to introduce uncertainty in the minds of many in regard to doctrines that have been established by the sanction of the Holy Spirit. Disguised as one who has a deep understanding of truth, Satan will seek to point out supposed errors in that which needs no revision, and it will take much time and patient labor to restore confidence in those whose minds are unsettled by unnecessary changes. God forbids His servants to alter that which needs no change. If our people would all act sensibly in regard to these matters, and not give themselves to a work of questioning and disputation, much doubt and consequent confusion would be avoided. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 16)
There are some minds that are naturally inclined to question and criticize and condemn. Some, like Judas, are prone to inquire, “Why wear that silk dress?” or “Why spend your money for this or that, instead of for some other worthy object?” (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 17)
In the closing days of Christ’s ministry, the traitorous disciple disputed about the ointment that Mary used in anointing Christ. It was Judas who raised the inquiry, “Why was not this ointment sold, and the proceeds given to the poor?” [John 12:5.] He cared not for the welfare of the poor. Jesus overheard the remark and spoke in approval of that which had been condemned. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 18)
Matthew’s account of this incident reveals the fact that the Saviour took into consideration the motive prompting the deed of the penitent woman, and this led to His unqualified approval of that which man was so ready to question and condemn. We read: (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 19)
“Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, there came unto Him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on His head as He sat at meat. But when His disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? for this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 20)
“When Jesus understood it, He said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman; for she hath wrought a good work upon Me. For ye have the poor always with you; but Me ye have not always. For in that she hath poured this ointment on My body, she did it for My burial. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.” Matthew 26:6-13. (25LtMs, Lt 70, 1910, 21)
Lt 72, 1910
White, J. E.
NP
[September 2, 1910]
Previously unpublished.
Elder J. E. White
Nashville, Tennessee
Dear Son Edson:
We attended the camp-meeting at Berkeley, which was held from August 18 to 28. This meeting was held in a very favorable location in Berkeley. Never was I better pleased with the location of a camp ground. On reaching the camp ground, we found that rooms had been engaged for us in a house just across the street from the camp ground and directly opposite the large pavilion. I only had to cross the street, walk a short distance, and I was in the tent. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 1)
Brother Crisler and his family had a cottage in the yard of the house we occupied, and Willie had a room in this cottage. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 2)
There was a large attendance at the meeting, and the seats in the pavilion were arranged to accommodate those present, and also the outsiders who came to the meetings. At some of the meetings the large tent was crowded. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 3)
During the meeting Maggie arrived from New Zealand, with her husband and their two-year-old boy. Maggie has come to unite with me in my work. Her husband is working on the place. We were much pleased to welcome these friends and are glad that the long voyage from New Zealand is over. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 4)
I am now working diligently to bring all things into order, that we may see light in the Lord’s way. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 5)
Today I am going to our new school property at Angwin. There is to be a special meeting there, where many things are to be considered. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 6)
*****
September 3, 1910
Pacific Union College, Angwin
Yesterday Sara and I left our pleasant home for this place. A meeting is being held here to consider some things in regard to our school in this place, and I was urged to attend. So on Friday morning Sara and I started, taking the longer route, because the short one is rocky, and at this time of the year very dusty. The long road is four miles further round than the short route, but is an excellent road, ascending the mountain gradually. We took my special driving horse Ladybird and suffered very little annoyance from the dust. But it is a drive of two and a half hours, and a continual ascent, and on reaching the school I felt very weary. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 7)
W. C. White and his family attended the meeting, coming later. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 8)
Notwithstanding my weariness, I spoke to a full house this morning. The Lord gave me freedom of speech, and I spoke for about an hour. The following words, which were on my mind, I spoke to the people: (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 9)
Entering the Cities
Again and again I am instructed to present to our churches in every place the work that should be done, not only where we have churches already established, but in new fields, where the truth has never been fully presented. In our cities, as verily as in far-off lands, there are people of all nationalities whose souls are precious and who must hear the message. The way must be opened to reach these unworked fields. Decided work must be done. Openings must be made. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 10)
Those of our ministers who, Sabbath after Sabbath, preach to the same ones, accomplish very little. If they were wide-awake, their words would make a right impression on minds, and souls would be led to accept the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 11)
It is impossible for man to measure the ingenuity shown by Lucifer in deceiving human minds. As Christ saw the working out of Satan’s plans to deceive man in many ways, He gladly came to our world as an infant, to meet the wily foe in every stage of human life and to counterwork his satanic wiles. No one could understand as did Christ the enemy’s power of deception. He saw that the world was being captivated by the delusive power exercised through commercialism of various kinds. He would take human nature and stay this overwhelming power of deception, which was deceiving souls to their ruin. Thus was carried out the plan for Christ to act His part as a Saviour. He came to our world to live, and suffer, and die, that He might win the souls deceived by Satan. He is wise in an understanding of Lucifer’s plans, and He can teach fallen man how to become wise to discern Satan’s plans and to escape the corruption that he is constantly inventing. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 12)
Christ declared: I have pledged Myself, as the only begotten Son of the Lord God Almighty, to carry out God’s plan to win souls from Lucifer to be obedient to the Lord’s power. Christ alone can defeat the enemy. He works in man’s behalf to uncover the plans of Satan, that souls may be led to turn from the archdeceiver. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 13)
*****
September 16, 1910
“Elmshaven,”
We have received your message, in which you tell of your need of means to invest in your book business. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 14)
At present I have no money on hand, and I dare not borrow money to send to you to invest in your various enterprises; for this would involve me more deeply in debt. I fear that you are being tempted to make uncertain ventures, as you have done in the past. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 15)
I must move intelligently and make wise calculations; for there are many things that I have written that should be placed in print. Often I cannot sleep at night, as I think of the dearth of means to publish matter that I greatly desire to have prepared for publication. It is not right that I should be so worried by financial stress. My mind must be kept free and clear to bear faithfully the messages that the Lord gives me. I need money to carry forward the work of getting before the people important matter, much of which is still in my diaries. But I must wait till the means come in. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 16)
I am sorry to write thus to you, but I dare not encourage you to hope that I can furnish means whenever you call for it, and that I will borrow money both for you and for myself. I am trying in every way to economize, that I may have means to use in the work the Lord has given me to do. (25LtMs, Lt 72, 1910, 17)
Lt 74, 1910
Amadon, G. W.
St. Helena, California
September 12, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in PC 91-92.
Mr. G. W. Amadon
Battle Creek, Michigan
Dear Brother Amadon:
We have heard of the calamity that overtook you during the Battle Creek camp-meeting, in the wrecking of the large tent. This news does not surprise us; for the prince of the power of the air will do strange things in his efforts to hinder God’s people; and much more in the future than he has in the past. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 1)
I have been surprised that we have seen so little of the working and manifestation of his wrath. I have seen that just such things as have happened at the Battle Creek camp-meeting will take place again. As Lucifer sees that we are making efforts to work the cities as if we meant to give the last message, his wrath will be aroused, and he will employ every device in his power to hinder the work. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 2)
Lucifer was cast out of heaven because he was fully determined to have a position above that of Christ. He could not obtain what he coveted, and there was war in heaven, and he was cast out. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 3)
Satanic agencies have held control at Battle Creek, and as I read the account of your experience, I was not at all surprised; for I realize that many more such things will take place. As the cities are worked by the Lord’s messengers, there will be many strange revelations; but we are to go straight forward, heeding them not. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 4)
Take the case of Job. See how Satan was permitted to show himself and his indignation against God’s servant. In the future we shall see more of the violence described in the Bible. But we must not be surprised, as though some strange thing happened unto us. As special victories are gained in the work of arousing our people to a sense of their true position, Satan will reveal himself. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 5)
We were greatly blessed during our camp-meeting at Berkeley. We had an exceptionally favorable location, and this I appreciated. Sara and I had rooms in a house just across the road from the camp-ground. My room was opposite the large pavilion. I had only to walk across the street, go a short distance further, and I was in the tent. I was thankful that it was so little trouble for me to get to the speakers’ stand. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 6)
Brother Crisler and his family and Willie had a cottage in the back yard of the house we occupied. It was very favorable for me to be so near my workers. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 7)
The camp-meeting was carried through with success, and no accidents occurred. The attendance at the meeting was large. I solicited an opportunity to speak on the last day of the meeting, when I read and explained some writings that will be of great consequence to those who will accept them. These writings I was deeply impressed to present. By faith we must grasp more firmly the words of unfailing truth. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 8)
About a week after returning from the camp-meeting, I visited the Pacific Union College, where a special meeting was then being held by the teachers of the church schools in this conference. Sara and I left our home for the college on Friday morning, taking the longer route, because the short one is rocky, and at this time of the year very dusty. The long road is about ten miles, four miles farther round than the short route, but it is an excellent road, ascending the mountain gradually. We suffered little annoyance from the dust, but it is a drive of two and a half hours, and a continual ascent, and on reaching the school I felt very weary. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 9)
Notwithstanding my weariness, I spoke to a full house the following morning. The Lord gave me freedom of speech, and I spoke for about an hour. The following words, which were on my mind, I spoke to the people: (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 10)
Entering the Cities
Again and again I am instructed to present to our churches in every place the work that should be done, not only where we have churches already established, but in new fields, where the truth has never been fully established. In our cities, as verily as in far-off lands, there are people of all nationalities whose souls are precious and who must hear the message. The way must be opened to reach these unworked fields. Decided work must be done. Openings must be made. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 11)
Those of our ministers who, Sabbath after Sabbath, preach to the same ones accomplish very little. If they were wide-awake, their words would make a decided impression and souls would be enlightened and led to accept the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 12)
It is impossible for man to measure the ingenuity shown by Satan in deceiving human minds. As Christ saw the working out of Satan’s plans to deceive man in many ways, He gladly came to our world as an infant, to live in this world, to meet the wily foe in every stage of human life, and to counterwork his satanic wiles. No one could understand as Christ did the enemy’s power of deception. He saw that the world was being captivated by the delusive power exercised through commercialism of various kinds. He came to take human nature, and to stay this overwhelming power of deception, which was leading souls to their ruin. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 13)
Thus was laid the plan for Christ to act His part as a saviour. He came to our world to live, and suffer, and die, that He might win to God the souls deceived by Satan. He is wise in an understanding of the tempter’s plans, and He can teach men and women how to become wise to discern and to escape the corruption that Satan is constantly inventing. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 14)
Christ declared, I have pledged Myself, as the only begotten Son of the Lord God Almighty, to carry out God’s plan to win souls from Satan to the Lord’s side. Christ alone can defeat the enemy. He works in man’s behalf to uncover his plans, that souls may be led to turn from the archdeceiver. (25LtMs, Lt 74, 1910, 15)
Lt 76, 1910
Burden, J. A.
“Pacific Union College,” Angwin, California
September 4, 1910
This manuscript is published in entirety in LLM 558-559.
Elder J. A. Burden
Loma Linda, California
Dear Brother Burden:
I am at the Pacific Union College, attending a council meeting of the church school teachers. Yesterday, Sabbath, I spoke in the chapel. The room was filled. A large place will have to be provided in which to hold meetings. I spoke from the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. I had some very important instruction to give to those present regarding the necessity of our working intelligently, and the Lord gave me strength to speak. (25LtMs, Lt 76, 1910, 1)
Brother and Sister Burden, I am very anxious that you should work with the best of courage. Notwithstanding that there are those who do not speak to you the encouraging words that for their own souls’ good the Lord would have them speak, yet I have this word for you: You are to press on, still bearing the Lord’s message for this time. There is a great work that with the help of the Lord you can both do. I wish that all those connected with you were united heart and mind in assisting you in the right way by speaking words of encouragement. But so long as you keep the eye of faith fixed on your Leader, you are safe. Rest in His hands. I am bidden to charge you not to fail or become discouraged. Keep your hearts filled [with] courage. Talk faith. Some are ready to speak words of discouragement. The Lord says to you, Be of good courage. Walk humbly, and work out the will of God. I am to say to you, There are many words of an objectionable character spoken by some who suppose that thus they can bring in improvements. But go straight ahead, following the instruction of Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 76, 1910, 2)
Lt 77, 1910
Those in Our Sanitariums
St. Helena, California
September 10, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in LLM 559-560.
To Those in Our Sanitariums
I have decided words to speak to all who shall act a part in bearing responsibilities in our sanitariums. We are intensely desirous that all connected with our sanitariums shall give evidence that they are men and women who believe in Christ as the world’s Redeemer. They are to show that they are laborers together with the Saviour, seeking to save the souls of those who are not truly converted, and working to save their own souls by striving to exert a correct example. Do not gather to your working forces men who, if they are tempted, give way to their feelings; men who will not understand that if they are influenced by wrong principles, they will be sure to sow seeds of distrust in other minds. (25LtMs, Lt 77, 1910, 1)
Christ came to our world to set His followers an example of perfection of character, that in His strength they might become Christlike, building for time and for eternity. I am bidden to give all our workers, men and women, a most solemn charge: If you are not truly converted, God cannot use you. In word, in spirit, and in all your works you are to bear testimony to the truth, making straight paths for your feet lest the lame be turned out of the way by your walking in strange paths. (25LtMs, Lt 77, 1910, 2)
“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren and to strangers, which have borne witness of thy charity before the church, whom if thou bring forward on thy journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well, because that for His name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellow helpers to the truth.” [3 John 2-8.] (25LtMs, Lt 77, 1910, 3)
Read slowly the whole of the first chapter of Second Peter and grasp by faith the precious truths given for our encouragement. (25LtMs, Lt 77, 1910, 4)
Lt 78, 1910
White, J. E.
St. Helena, California
September 18, 1910
Previously unpublished. +
Elder J. E. White
Nashville, Tennessee
My dear Son:
I have recently written you a letter in which I made a plain statement in regard to the financial straits that we are in. Although our publishing houses have sold many books, I have not been able to lessen my indebtedness. I have a great desire to be free from debt, but under existing circumstances I cannot lessen the debt. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 1)
We are now striving earnestly to get many things published, and among them the history of our labors in Australia. I have much matter in my diary regarding our experience in Australia, all written by my own hand, which ought to be published before I am removed by death. But I leave the whole matter with the Lord. For a time I have been nearly broken down, but the Lord has graciously preserved me. I am hoping that I may still labor in planting the seed of truth in good soil. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 2)
I have not heard much as yet regarding the camp-meeting in Battle Creek. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 3)
We are living in a time when every phase of character will be developed. But each one is responsible for his own individual course of action. I am hoping, Edson, that you and Emma will enjoy the great treasure of the assurance of the rich blessing of God. While the world is under satanic delusions, evil agencies of every kind will be at work to deceive if possible the very elect; but, my children, work, and work humbly with the grace of God in your hearts. Pray much, and watch unto prayer. Keep in close connection with our Saviour Jesus Christ, ever maintaining growth in righteousness and true holiness. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 4)
It is your privilege to know the meaning, day by day, of a true reception of the living Saviour, who is waiting to impart the rich, free gift of a true sense of salvation through a belief of the truth as it is in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 5)
I do not want you to become more and more deeply involved in business undertakings; for this always proves a snare to you, my son, hurting your influence in the presentation of the truth. Through the active reception of the whole truth as it is in Jesus, you are always safe. “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new.” [2 Corinthians 5:17.] “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.” [Galatians 5:22, 23.] (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 6)
My son, do not, in any of your work, adopt plans that will increase your cares and burdens, and enlarge your business responsibilities. And do not enter into connection with those not of our faith. In the past I have presented to you your mistakes and dangers, but you are so confident of your prospects that you broaden your work too much, and your expectations are not realized. Then you find yourself involved in debt and discouragement. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 7)
We have repeatedly made efforts to help you, and this is one reason why I am so heavily in debt, and why both myself and your brother are placed in an embarrassing and unfavorable light before some of our people. It will not be right for us to again consent to pass over and through the same experiences. We cannot uphold you in launching out into a work that you ought not to be doing. I have not the courage to repeat what I have written in the past. And you have suffered so much in the past that I do not want you again to make the trial of undertaking to do what our publishing houses are established to do. Do what you can in co-operation with your brethren, but do not link up with unbelievers in any business transaction. Your experience in the past is all-sufficient. You can and must keep on safe ground. Then your wife will not be placed where she will worry over your course. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 8)
I want you to speak the truth from the Word in righteousness. Christ came from heaven to give His precious life for the salvation of souls. And we are not permitted to use our lives in efforts that will imperil our usefulness in doing our appointed work. We are not to run any risk of hurting the influence that the Lord would have us maintain in His work and service. You have large powers of doing good in certain lines and of magnifying the truth, if you will walk in the light of the wisdom of Christ. Obedience to the Lord’s warning is your safety. You are to try the result of obedience to the Word, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 9)
But you know all this. I must tell you again that we cannot encourage you to be hopeful that I can sustain you in branching out to publish books and deal with agents. I desire you to understand the history of the past, and I encourage you to work humbly with God and minister in His Word. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 10)
Your mother. (25LtMs, Lt 78, 1910, 11)
Lt 80, 1910
Parsons, D. A.
St. Helena, California
September 16, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Elder D. A. Parsons
Dear Brother Parsons:
I was glad to receive your letter dated August 20, 1910. I am made sad as I read that your wife has had a severe illness. She had, you tell me, been sick for one month at the date of your letter. May the Lord bless her and heal her and graciously reveal to her His power, and may her voice be heard in the assembly of God’s people. Christ is our healing power. Let faith take hold of the promise and claim the assurance, “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Do not give up the battle to the enemy. Do not let go the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] “Faith is the substance of the things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] I am grateful to our heavenly Father for His wonderful goodness to us. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 1)
I hope that you will be able to find a good climate for your wife and yourself. Then, when she recovers, she can help you and you can help her. I should be pleased to hear about your son. Where is the little lad? Please let me know in regard to him. May the Lord guide you in all judgment. We shall unite our prayers with yours for the recovery of your wife. We have been through the experience of having sickness in the home, and we understand what it means. The Lord has often been very gracious to me, sparing my life when there seemed to be very little hope. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 2)
The truth is to go to all parts of the world. It is no time now for us to lay off our burden. The message must be kept before our churches: “Present the truth in its high, holy, sanctified character to the people.” Read pages thirteen, fourteen, and fifteen in Testimony, Vol. 9. The last crisis is close upon us. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecy of the eleventh of Daniel has almost reached its complete fulfilment. Soon the scenes of trouble spoken of in the prophecies will take place. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 3)
Read also the thirty-first and thirty-second chapters of Exodus. After Moses, coming down from the mount, found the children of Israel engaged in idolatrous worship, he “stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord’s side? let him come unto me.” [Exodus 32:26.] In this call all were offered an opportunity to repent and take their stand on the Lord’s side, and receive forgiveness. But those who refused to stand by Moses on this occasion met with a fearful end. Read the painful history, and the instruction given afterward by the Lord to Moses, as recorded in the thirty-third and thirty-fourth chapters of Exodus. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 4)
I am inclined to think that any one going to the Paradise Valley Sanitarium would be benefited by the climate. And if the managers of this institution will walk circumspectly, in the counsel of the Lord, doing His will, the wisdom of God will be revealed through them. And God will be glorified. Sanctified grace will come into the characters of those who walk humbly with God, educating mind and heart to do the will and the way of the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 5)
There are those in our institutions whose hearts must be refined and changed through divine grace. Our institutions must take on a mold superior to that which has yet been manifested. Will it be decidedly revealed? The Lord calls upon those connected with our sanitariums to live the righteousness of Christ. This is their only hope—a sanctified service to God. When they do this, they will walk in all humility, and the Lord will be able to work through them to His name’s glory to relieve the sick through their wise efforts and earnest prayers. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 6)
The Lord is our helper. He will strengthen all who look to Him in faith as the great Healer. I have been passing through a severe attack of influenza and have not been able to sleep as I should. But I am improving. I appreciate highly the grace of Christ. I have His comfort and grace. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 7)
We were greatly blessed during our camp-meeting at Berkeley. We had an exceptionally favorable location, and this I appreciated. Sara and I had rooms in a house just across the road from the camp-ground. I had only to walk across the street, go a short distance farther, and I was in the tent. I was thankful that it was so little trouble for me to get to the speaker’s stand. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 8)
Brother Crisler and his family and Willie had a cottage in the back yard of the house we occupied. It was very favorable for me to be so near my workers. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 9)
The camp-meeting was carried through with success, and no accidents occurred. The attendance at the meeting was large. I solicited an opportunity to speak on the last day of the meeting, when I read and explained some writings that will be of great consequence to those who accept them. These writings I was deeply impressed to present and enforce upon the people. I could not withhold my message. I felt that the large congregation must be give a correct understanding of my position. By faith we must grasp more firmly the words of unfailing truth. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 10)
About a week after returning from the camp-meeting, I visited the Pacific Union College, where a special meeting was then being held by the teachers of the church schools in this conference. Sara and I left our home for the college on Friday morning, taking the longer route, because the short one is rocky, and at this time of the year very dusty. The long road is about ten miles, four miles farther around than the short route, but it is an excellent road, ascending the mountain gradually. We suffered little annoyance from the dust, but it is a drive of two and a half hours, and a continual ascent; and on reaching the school I felt very weary. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 11)
Notwithstanding my weariness, I spoke in the chapel the following morning. The Lord gave me freedom of speech, and I spoke for an hour. The following words, which were on my mind, I spoke to the people: (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 12)
Entering the Cities
Again and again I am instructed to present to our churches in every place the work that should be done, not only where we have churches already established, but in new fields, where the truth has never been fully established. In our cities, as verily as in far-off lands, there are people of all nationalities whose souls are precious and who must hear the message. The way must be opened to reach these unworked fields. Decided work must be done. Openings must be made. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 13)
Those of our ministers who, Sabbath after Sabbath, preach to the same ones accomplish very little. If they were wide-awake, their words would make a decided impression and souls would be enlightened and led to accept the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 14)
It is impossible for man to measure the ingenuity shown by Satan in deceiving human minds. As Christ saw the working out of the enemy’s plans to deceive man in many ways, He gladly came to our world as an infant, to live in this world, to meet the wily foe in every stage of human life, and to counterwork his satanic wiles. No one could understand as Christ did the enemy’s power of deception. He saw that the world was being captivated by the delusive power exercised through commercialism of various kinds. He came to take human nature, and stay this overwhelming tide of deception, which was leading souls to their ruin. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 15)
Thus was laid the plan for Christ to act His part as a Saviour. He came to our world to live, and suffer, and die, that He might win to God the souls deceived by Satan. He is wise in an understanding of the tempter’s plans, and He can teach men and women how to become wise to discern and escape the corruption that Satan is constantly inventing. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 16)
Christ declared, I have pledged Myself, as the only begotten Son of the Lord God Almighty, to carry out God’s plan to win souls from Satan to the Lord’s side. Christ alone can defeat the enemy. He works in man’s behalf to uncover his plans, that souls may be led to turn from the archdeceiver to the living God, and thus gain eternal life. (25LtMs, Lt 80, 1910, 17)
Lt 82, 1910
Rumbough, Martha
St. Helena, California
September 20, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in Ev 36.
Mrs. Martha Rumbough
Asheville, North Carolina
Dear Sister Rumbough:
Recently in looking over my writings, I found a partly written letter to you. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 1)
Some months ago my son told me about the school farm at Naples, and that you had purchased it for a training school for Christian workers. I then began a letter to you, telling how glad I was that a school was to be established at Asheville. But I see that my letter was never finished, and now I am writing again. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 2)
I appreciate very much your liberality in making this large gift for the establishment of the Naples school. I am also very thankful to you for letting us have the loan for the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. This has taken a great burden off my mind and has helped the institution very much. My sister, I praise the Lord for your willingness to help us in the emergency at Paradise Valley. I am very thankful for the help the Lord enabled you to give His faithful workers in their necessity. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 3)
We have often been brought into very straight places in our efforts to respond to the light that has come regarding advance moves. But as we have advanced in faith, the relief of means has come; and it has not been those alone who have received the means who have been blessed. We know that the means coming from you, my sister, has been recognized of the Lord, and there will be thanksgiving from those who receive the light of truth as a result of your liberality. I am glad that you will by and by receive your reward. The Lord has blessed you greatly in making it possible for you to be a laborer together with Him in thus liberally assisting the work of His cause. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 4)
We feel intensely regarding the work in our cities. There are few ready to engage in the work waiting to be done. There are people of all classes to be met; and the work is difficult. But we shall encourage all who have tact and the ability to understand the situation, to give themselves to the work of sounding the last note of warning to the world. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 5)
This morning, September 20, I am up writing by lamplight. I cannot sleep. I was wide-awake hours before daylight. I am pleading with the Lord for strength and grace and sanctified wisdom. The Lord can give me His blessing and enable me to continue to bear my testimony. I am nearly eighty-three years old, yet the Lord has strengthened my nerves so that the hand that holds the pen is still steady. O how much I have to be thankful for. With heart and soul and voice I praise the Lord for His lovingkindness. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 6)
We were greatly blessed during our camp-meeting at Berkeley. We had an exceptionally favorable location, and this I appreciated. Sara and I had rooms in a house just across the road from the camp-ground. My room was opposite the large pavilion. I had only to cross the street, go a short distance farther, and I was in the tent. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 7)
The meeting was carried through with success. The attendance at the meeting was large. The Lord strengthened me to speak several times. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 8)
About a week after returning from the camp-meeting, I visited the Pacific Union College, where a special meeting was then being held by the teachers of the church schools in this conference. Sara and I left our home for the college on Friday morning, taking the longer route, because the short one is rocky, and at this time of the year very dusty. The long road is about ten miles—four miles farther round than the short route, but it is an excellent road, ascending the mountain gradually. We suffered very little annoyance from the dust, but it is a drive of two and a half hours; and on reaching the school, I felt very weary. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 9)
Notwithstanding my weariness, I spoke to a full house the following morning. The Lord gave me freedom of speech, and I spoke for about an hour. The following words, which were on my mind, I spoke to the people: (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 10)
Entering the Cities
Again and again I am instructed to present to our churches in every place the work that should be done, not only where we have churches already established, but in new fields where the truth has never been fully established. In our cities, as verily as in far-off lands, there are people of all nationalities whose souls are precious and who must hear the message. The way must be opened to reach these unworked fields. Decided work must be done. Openings must be made. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 11)
It is impossible for man to measure the ingenuity shown by Satan in deceiving human minds. As Christ saw the working out of Satan’s plan to deceive man in many ways, He gladly came to our world as an infant, to live in this world, to meet the wily foe at every stage of human life, and to counterwork his satanic wiles. No one could understand as Christ did the enemy’s power of deception. He saw that the world was being captivated by the delusive power exercised through commercialism of various kinds. He came to take human nature and to stay this overwhelming power of deception which was leading souls to their ruin. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 12)
Thus was carried out the plan for Christ to act His part as a Saviour. He came to our world to live and suffer and die, that He might win to God the souls deceived by Satan. He is wise in an understanding of the tempter’s plans, and He can teach men and women how to become wise to discern and escape the corruption that Satan is constantly inventing. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 13)
Christ declared, I have pledged Myself, as the only begotten Son of the Lord God Almighty, to carry out God’s plan to win souls from Satan to the Lord’s side. Christ alone can defeat the enemy. He works in man’s behalf to uncover his plans, that souls may be led to turn from the archdeceiver. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 14)
May the Lord bless you, Sister Rumbough, and guide you in all your efforts to establish the truth, is my prayer. (25LtMs, Lt 82, 1910, 15)
Lt 84, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
July 26, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in Ev 75, 473-474; HFM 71-72; 3MR 223.
Elder A. G. Daniells
My dear brother:
I am very glad to hear that you have been led to understand for yourself the condition of the unworked cities. We must remember that in these cities we have all nationalities to deal with and that means will be needed for the prosecution of the work. If our ministers will do their duty, under the influence of the Spirit of God, many of these people of different nationalities will accept the truth and will in turn work for their own people. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 1)
I have been and still am instructed regarding the necessities required for the work in the cities. We must quietly secure buildings, without defining all we intend to do. We must use great wisdom in what we say, lest our way be hedged up. Lucifer is an ingenious worker, drawing from our people all possible knowledge, that he may if possible defeat the plans laid to arouse our cities. On some points, silence is eloquence. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 2)
I wish to tell you that we shall help you all we can in the work you have entered upon. If this work had been undertaken years ago, large numbers would have been brought to a knowledge of the truth. Last night the matter was opened before me. The judgment alone will reveal the result of this sad neglect. I am intensely in earnest, and O I beg of you to encourage our people to redeem the time. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 3)
Our camp-meetings are to be conducted in such a way that they shall be schools for the education of workers. We need to have a better understanding of the division of labor and educate all how to carry each part of the work successfully. The discourses given should not be long. Sermons one half the length and the time thus saved spent in Bible classes will do more to establish souls in the faith than lengthy discourses. Let short discourses be given, and then let Bible classes be held. Let the speaker be sure to rivet the truth upon minds. Intelligent women, if truly converted, can act a part in this work of holding Bible classes. There is a wide field of service for women as well as for men. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 4)
Let every one who understands the reasons of our faith help others to understand these reasons. Let the worker pray with those whom he is seeking to win to Christ. Let our work be done in simplicity and in true dignity, under the influence of the sanctifying power of the truth. You will be taught of God if you will seek Him most earnestly. We are to make constant progress in our religious education. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 5)
Let every idler awake to a sense of the obligation resting on him to gather souls to a belief of the truth. When men and women are examined in regard to the use they have made of the light God has given them, what excuse will be offered by those who have made no special effort to save souls? (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 6)
The work of food manufacture and sale should be given a place of less consequence in our cause. There are those who have given themselves to this work who should now consecrate themselves to the doing of a higher work—the work of soul-saving. Will not those who have entered into the enterprise of manufacturing foods ask themselves if there are not those whom they could feed with the bread of life, those who are in need of spiritual food. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 7)
Elder Daniells, we have lost most favorable opportunities for reaching souls, but there is still time to give up wrong ideas and plans and be truly converted. Ever remember that we have a worldwide message to bear. The light that God has given to His people is to be given to the world. His servants are to go out into the highways and hedges. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 8)
In every church to which you can find entrance, speak the truth plainly and simply, and angels of God will make impressions on minds. Let there be harmony of sentiment in regard to how to conduct the work intelligently. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 9)
Everything in the universe calls upon us to make known the truth, to consecrate ourselves unreservedly to the proclamation of the third angel’s message. It will now be much harder to reach the people than it was twenty years ago. We need a daily consecration; for we have a great and a neglected work to do. Wake up the watchmen. Will our people listen to the message? Will they eat the bread of life, which will insure them immortal life in the kingdom of God? (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 10)
Do not be discouraged if the battle goes hard. Remember that if the work had been entered upon in earnest years ago, many might now be fitted to help you. Where are these? The light did not come to them. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 11)
The Prince of heaven offered up His life, suffering a most cruel death, to give eternal life to all who will accept the gift. God’s messengers are now to give themselves to Him and make every effort to save souls. With earnestness and fervor, the message must now be borne, not in long discourses, but in talks short and right to the point. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 12)
The keeping holy of the seventh day will arouse the ire of the dragon, and many will be persecuted. But Christ suffered in our behalf, and in His strength we may endure to the end. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 13)
Faithful stewardship is called for. Let those who engage in the work of the Lord remember Christ on the cross, giving His precious life to save sinners. I have faith that in the future many will be brought to a knowledge of the truth. Let it be our work to encourage those engaged in commercial enterprises to lift the cross and work for the salvation of souls. The Lord calls for workers, and many must be taken from their worldly employment to break the bread of life to souls who need a knowledge of what is truth. No one can afford to neglect the call to speak the Word of life to sinners. (25LtMs, Lt 84, 1910, 14)
Lt 86, 1910
White, J. E.
St. Helena, California
September 23, 1910
Previously unpublished.
My dear son Edson:
I have felt a deep interest in you, but warnings have been given me that your brother and your mother must in no case encourage you in the plans you have laid in publishing or in any other line of speculation. You are not a safe financier, and you should so arrange matters that your mind can be kept clear and free from financial perplexity. Unless you do this, you will be in grave physical danger and will involve yourself and others in deeper perplexity. (25LtMs, Lt 86, 1910, 1)
In the past I have repeatedly had to face the results of your unwise investments. But at the present time we have not means at our command to meet our own needs, and I could not send you money without borrowing more and thus increasing my already heavy indebtedness. In the burning of our publishing houses, I have suffered thousands of dollars of loss. While in Australia I borrowed largely to help the work in that field in its time of need. When the Lord would have us secure the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, and there seemed no other way of obtaining it, I invested some money in that. These and other things have placed upon me a heavy burden of interest-bearing indebtedness. (25LtMs, Lt 86, 1910, 2)
Often I have been shown that you should be guarded in your financial calculations. You are not able to reason clearly from cause to effect. If you go on as you have done, you will face financial ruin; and if we encourage you by sending you means as you may ask for it, we also will become seriously involved. We cannot sanction business done in a presumptuous manner. (25LtMs, Lt 86, 1910, 3)
I shall soon be eighty-three years old, and I feel deeply over the need of having my writings put in proper shape for publication. Night after night I am unable to sleep. I am sure that the Lord does not desire us to be dependent upon our brethren for support. We must put forth good books. Our books have a large sale, but our expenses are heavy in producing them, and we have no surplus. (25LtMs, Lt 86, 1910, 4)
Therefore, if you continue to involve yourself deeper, then borrow money at such exorbitant rates of interest, and are unable to meet your obligations, how will this affect your mother’s credit? Are we to be continually called upon to send you means to make it possible for you to broaden your publishing business? At any time some of my creditors are likely to call for their money, and this means that I have to go to the bank to meet the necessity. (25LtMs, Lt 86, 1910, 5)
I have, Edson, only the tenderest feelings for you, and I do not wish what I write to discourage you. If you will stand in your appointed place as a minister of God, working as best you can with your income, the Lord will open before you ways and means of accomplishing much good. I wish that you might be near us, that we might plan together regarding your work. There is a good publishing house in Mountain View; and if you were here, I believe you and your brother could plan so that your books could be printed there. (25LtMs, Lt 86, 1910, 6)
We feel intensely desirous that you shall be able to minister in word and doctrine, and that the Lord may open before you a plan of carrying forward your work without the necessity of borrowing money at heavy rates of interest, nor of calling upon us so largely for help which it is not in our power rightfully to give. (25LtMs, Lt 86, 1910, 7)
Lt 88, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
September 30, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in TDG 282; 1MR 308; 5MR 128-129.
Elder A. G. Daniells
My dear Brother:
I have just read again what you wrote regarding your experience at the Battle Creek camp-meeting. I am very thankful for this report from you. I am impressed that just such meetings should be held in prominent places like Battle Creek. I have often been assured that as a result, a favorable impression will be made upon the minds of many not of our faith. I was not surprised to hear of the wrecking of the large tent; for the prince of the power of the air will do strange things in his efforts to hinder God’s people, and much more in the future than he has in the past, as work is taken up in important places. (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 1)
Meetings similar to this should often be held in Battle Creek; for many minds have become confused by the strange theories advanced there; and the truth is to be repeated again and again. Thus our people will be strengthened. And now, as the work has begun in earnest, the Lord Jesus will impress minds. (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 2)
In the night season instruction has been given me that many have become confused by the experience of some who have departed from the faith and have given the trumpet an uncertain sound. For the benefit of those who have thus become confused, the message is now to go forth with great power. The evidences of the truth are to be repeated, that the people may see that we are standing in assurance, giving the trumpet a certain sound. (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 3)
The words were spoken to me: “Tell My people that time is short. Every effort is now to be made to exalt the truth. In the cities, large and small, the message is to be proclaimed. The third angel’s message is to be united with the second angel’s message and is to be proclaimed with great power in our large cities. Thus will be given with a loud voice the message that is to prepare a people for the coming of the King.” (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 4)
I have now some hope that the cities will be reached. We are to give the messages in their order. Not a word is to be spoken that would create dissension, when this can possibly be avoided. We are to put forth every effort to make the truth stand forth in its prophetic order. (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 5)
The situation in all the large cities must be studied, that the truth may be given to all the people. In these large cities the Lord has many honest souls who are becoming confused by the strange developments in the religious world. There are many who have been waiting to hear the “certain sound” of the message that would meet the emergency. All over our land the Lord has honest souls who are standing in uncertainty. The words were spoken: “Repeat the messages in their order. Tell My people to proclaim the message, the binding-off message, that is to [prepare] a people for the coming of the King. Give the world a knowledge of the messages of the first, second, and third angels. Bind up the law among My disciples. There are many who will listen because men will speak under the influence of the Holy Spirit. You are twenty years behind; but let the warning voice now be heard, speaking with the voice of assurance.” (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 6)
The message is to be proclaimed with sanctified ability. The word of the Lord has been spoken. God calls for sanctified hearts and lips. The messages of warning are to be given in the large cities, and also in the towns and villages. The men of God’s appointment are to be zealously at work, disposing of our books, and disseminating light. The articles in our papers are not to present the truth in the style of a romance; for this weakens the impression that should be made by the most solemn truth ever committed to mortals. They are to contain a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” The message must be repeated, and Bible reasons given, not in the style of a romance, but in the style of the Bible. There are many who are watching for the evidence of true religion. (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 7)
The Lord declares, “The message is to go forth in words of solemn warning. Nothing that will hinder the clear presentation of the message is to be introduced into your plans. Repeat the message. The wickedness in the cities is increasing; the adversary has great influence over men, because My people did not open their hearts to realize their responsibility. Tell My people to take up their work and proclaim the message. They are to speak and work in the simplicity of true godliness, and My Spirit will make the impression on hearts. Let the true note of warning be sounded. My angel shall go before you if you will be sanctified through the truth.” (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 8)
A great work is to be done. The truth is to be proclaimed with clear enunciation. We are to work in the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, walking humbly before God. We must send messengers throughout all the unworked fields, and the Lord will impress hearts. The first and second angels’ messages went with the power of the Spirit, and those who in their proclamation walked and worked in humility were greatly blessed. Let us all wake up and with great energy take hold of the work to be done. (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 9)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 88, 1910, 10)
Lt 90, 1910
Reaser, W. A.
St. Helena, California
September 22, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Elder W. A. Reaser
My dear Brother:
I have received and read your letter, and would say to you that the best evidence you can give of a change of heart is to give yourself wholly to the Lord. There are places in which you can labor acceptably if you will be clothed with the robe of Christ’s righteousness. Take hold of the work of helping those who need strength of purpose to follow on to know the Lord. When you seek to know the way of the Lord, not exalting self, but working in harmony with the Holy Spirit, God will recognize your efforts. (25LtMs, Lt 90, 1910, 1)
The Lord knows what is in the heart of man; and when you humble yourself before him, and determine to do His will, you will find that our God is a God of mercy. (25LtMs, Lt 90, 1910, 2)
Show yourself ready to work in any line by which you can give the truth to others. I have an intense desire that you shall do something to let the light shine into the hearts of those in darkness. Act your part in the distribution of our literature. Remember that this literature contains the truth—God’s truth. Simple tracts, passing from your hands to those who know not the truth, speak words that are to the point. The doing of this work will prove a blessing to you and to those whose attention is thus arrested. Do everything in your power to give light to others. Thus doing, you will receive light. None can estimate the usefulness of our literature or the influence of the truth that these books and pamphlets contain. As those to whom they are distributed read the printed words, angels of God will impress their minds. (25LtMs, Lt 90, 1910, 3)
Every one who really believes and appreciates the truth will find opportunities to speak words in season. Go out into places where you can let the light of truth shine forth, always remembering that there is a world ignorant of the truth. The men and women who understand the third angel’s message should be wide-awake, ready wherever they are to speak a word for Christ, realizing that all around them there are souls to save. There are many places in which the voice of the minister is not heard. Take Christ’s Object Lessons and Ministry of Healing, and in every way possible work to save souls. Those who humble themselves shall be exalted. Christian humility is of great value. The humbling of self causes truth to appear in its true value. (25LtMs, Lt 90, 1910, 4)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 90, 1910, 5)
Lt 92, 1910
White, J. E.
St. Helena, California
October 2, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in VSS 200-201.
My dear Son Edson:
I have been very busy planning how we may adjust our work and carry it forward with the least expense possible. The work of revising and adding to our books brings us much perplexity, and we need all the light the Lord has given us. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 1)
I have received excellent reports of the meetings held in Nashville. The discourses you have given have been well received. This pleases me; for over and over again the Lord has given me the word that you must not engage in any employment that would hedge up your work as a minister of the gospel of Christ. You are to devote yourself to the ministry of the Word, but you must guard strictly against entering into commercial business and manufacturing enterprises. You are easily led into business of this kind, and then the work in which you should engage is neglected. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 2)
Jesus pitied poor sinners so much that He left the royal courts and came to this world to teach men and women what they must do in order to be saved. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 3)
These words were spoken to me by my Instructor: “The cities are to be warned, and the living teacher is to open the Scriptures to large congregations.” You are not to feel that your highest and most powerful work is in the making of books. This is not your main work. Speak the Word before the people. Let the Lord Jesus impress your mind. Commercialism, even in book-making, is not to engross your powers. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 4)
As you engage in the work of opening the Word of God to others, you will receive physical and spiritual blessing. When you are speaking before a congregation, the brain is not taxed as it is when you are pouring over articles for your books. When a speaker talks in the proper way, taking deep, full inspirations, and throwing out the voice in clear, distinct tones, the whole being is benefited. The exercise of my lungs in deep breathing, as I have engaged in public speaking, has been a life preserver to me. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 5)
Care is always to be taken not to strain the vocal organ. They are to be kept as smooth as possible. When you are speaking before a congregation, let the abdominal muscles have the hardest part of the work to do. The light given me for you is that you are to do more public speaking, and that you are to be sure, when speaking, to exercise the abdominal muscles. Your brain has been overstrained. Take heed to the things I write you, and you will see that my words are true. As you engage in the work the Lord points out for you, the Spirit of God will impress minds through the words you speak. The spoken word will make a deeper impression on hearts than the printed word. I write you these things now because your writing power is less efficient than your power of addressing congregations. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 6)
When a minister is staying with a family, he should in an emergency take hold to help in the outdoor work. This will be a blessing to him and a help to those he is staying with. Our ministers are too much indoors, and often the rooms in which they stay are ill-ventilated and the air impure. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 7)
Let the minister remember that his habits of life often exert a more powerful influence than the sermon he preaches. Let ministers learn of Christ. In all His habits, in every word and deed, Christ was a true minister. He observed the laws of health. He has left us, in His life practice, an example that we are to follow. Let us study more closely the habits and life of the Saviour. He was verily an open-air speaker. In order that He might reach the people where they were, a great deal of His teaching was done out-of-doors. Thus many received a knowledge of the gospel. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 8)
The whole system is benefited by open-air exercise. Let our ministers remember that it is their duty to get out-of-door exercise, for the benefit of the physical health. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 9)
I have had experience in many countries and have always had the same testimony to bear. Our people in America need to breathe more out-of-door atmosphere. Ministers make a mistake in taking so little physical exercise and in remaining so much indoors in heated and often ill-ventilated rooms. Their time is largely given to study and to writing, when physical exercise is a positive duty. By using their physical powers, they would benefit the powers of the mind. They should exercise brain, bone, and muscle equally. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 10)
A minister should never leave his work in any place half done. There are those who take up work in a certain place and for a time report the best of interest; but before their work is completed, they leave for a new place. This has been a great mistake. The Lord calls for completed work in all places where work is undertaken. A thorough work is to be done, that souls may be convinced and baptized. Let our ministers bear this in mind and not give up their work till it is finished, till souls are baptized and received as members of the church. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 11)
Christ came to this world as a human being, that He might become acquainted with the experience of human beings in every stage of their experience. Humiliating Himself, He came to the aid of those who were exposed to the temptations of the enemy. Satan had prepared all kinds of commercialism to draw minds from the heavenly things that are all-important for the saving of the soul, to things that are common, to selfish and grasping efforts, to sharp trade of every order. It was his purpose to lead men to regard with indifference the heavenly treasure. Christ saw the peril that man was in through yielding to the desire to obtain riches by commercial schemes. He saw man’s natural inclination to be charmed with earthly treasure. He saw the warfare that was being waged between good and evil; and He volunteered to leave the heavenly courts, lay aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and assume humanity. He would give His life, that the world might have an opportunity to be redeemed. He would stand in man’s behalf against the enemy of all good and by divine grace overcome every temptation brought to bear against him. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 12)
Your mother. (25LtMs, Lt 92, 1910, 13)
Lt 94, 1910
Duce, William
St. Helena, California
July 12, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 21-22; 6Bio 264.
Elder Wm. Duce
Dear Brother Duce:
I wish to write words that shall remove from the minds of any of my brethren the impression that I did not, before their publication, read the pages in Testimony for the Church, Vol. 9, relating to Sunday labor. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 1)
I read this matter before it went to the printer, and have read it several times from the book, and I can see nothing in it to give one reason to say that Sunday-keeping is there taught. Neither does the counsel there given contradict the Bible, nor former testimonies. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 2)
I have given not one word to sustain Sunday-keeping. In my writings will be found the most positive statements concerning the Lord’s requirements to observe the holy Sabbath, because that on the seventh day Jehovah rested. He sanctified that day, and set it apart, and gave it to man to be observed most sacredly. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 3)
In my public labors I have spoken before large audiences in Europe and in Australasia, and in all parts of the United States. In these discourses, which have been faithfully reported, will be found most positive testimony against Sunday observance and earnest appeals for Sabbath observance. My discourses are reported, and what I write by hand is copied out by faithful helpers. Before any of this matter is printed, it is read over and closely examined by me. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 4)
I have reason to praise the Lord for His great goodness and merciful kindness to me. My health is good for one of my age, and I am able to do much work. Although I am in my eighty-third year, the Lord remarkably sustains me. At times, I become weary; but when I stand upon my feet before a congregation, I am strengthened by the Spirit of God. I am so thankful that the Lord continues to give me a clear understanding of the truth; and so long as He gives me strength, I shall continue by pen and voice to call the attention of our people to the serious importance of the times in which we live. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 5)
I will repeat to you what I wrote to one of the pioneers in our cause: (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 6)
I have lost none of my faith in the message. After the passing of the time in 1844, we were a disappointed people, few in numbers. We sought the Lord most earnestly and read and re-read His commandments. We saw wherein we had been working and walking contrary to them, and then we thanked the Lord for our disappointment. The fourteenth chapter of Revelation was studied, and we discerned the meaning of the words, “Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Verse 12.] Light was given us on the claims of the law of God. We were convicted that the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord, and we began to observe it as holy unto Him. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 7)
The light given in the Word of God regarding the Sabbath is too plain to be misunderstood. God declares: “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.” [Exodus 20:8-11.] (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 8)
And again He says, “Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.... The children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever.” [Exodus 31:13-17.] (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 9)
The world has accepted a false rest day and has dishonored the Creator of heaven and earth. The false is reverenced in the place of the true. God’s Sabbath is trampled under the feet of man. What excuse can those who do this give for placing the first day of the week where the seventh should be, and for making laws compelling its observance? God’s condemnation will rest upon all who have thus disregarded His commands. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 10)
Seventh-day Adventists need to search the Scriptures, that they may know the reasons of their faith. Christ says, “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.] We are living in the close of this earth’s history. Let no one say in his heart, “My Lord delayeth His coming.” [Matthew 24:48.] Prophecy is fulfilling. Soon Christ will come with power and great glory. We have no time to lose. Let the message sound forth in earnest words of warning. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 11)
We must persuade men everywhere to repent and flee from the wrath to come. They have souls to save or to lose. Let there be no indifference in this matter. The Lord calls for workers who are filled with an earnest, decided purpose. Tell the people to be instant in season and out of season. With the words of life upon your lips, go forth to tell men and women that the end of all things is at hand. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 12)
Let us keep our souls in the love of God. The note of warning must be given. The truth must not languish upon our lips. We must rouse people to immediate preparation; for we little know what is before us. My faith is as strong as ever that we are living in the last remnant of time. Let every teacher present an open door before all who will come to Jesus, repenting of their sins. We are not only to watch; we are to pray and work and wait. (25LtMs, Lt 94, 1910, 13)
Lt 96, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
October 5, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 9MR 310-312.
Elder A. G. Daniells
My dear Brother:
I am encouraged as I see by your letters that the Lord is giving you a precious experience. Many things have been opened to me regarding the sacred work resting upon the ministers of the gospel. Every one who ministers in word and doctrine is to prepare for his sacred calling by diligently searching the Scriptures. The Word of God contains rules of life for men of all classes and all vocations. Examples are found in the Word of inspiration to meet the cases of all. By earnest prayer and diligent research, God’s workers may become giants in an understanding of Bible doctrine and an appreciation of the practical lessons of Christ. The hearts of all should hunger and thirst after righteousness. The minds of the servants of God are to be cleansed from all cheapness, that they may be prepared to understand the lessons of Christ and bring from the storehouse of God’s Word things new and old. The Word of life is to come from human lips. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 1)
The work for the Jews, as outlined in the eleventh chapter of Romans, is a work that is to be treated with special wisdom. It is a work that must not be ignored. The wisdom of God must come to our people. In all wisdom and righteousness we must clear the King’s highway. The Jews are to be given every opportunity of coming to the light. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 2)
The world is filled with errors and fables; but the time has come when fables must not enter into our experience. Every truly converted soul is given divine knowledge. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 3)
The Lord would have you gird on the armor and have full confidence, that while the world is teeming with error of all kinds, those who have the light of truth will be given wisdom from on high. Keep close to the side of Jesus. The time has come when the Lord says, Go forward and cultivate the abilities I have entrusted to you. The world is filled with false sentiments. Lift up the banner of Bible truth. The cause of God needs men who are making spiritual advancement. In the future more than in the past, sensational and absurd theories will be put forth. We are to keep close to the Word, that we may have clearness of mind to discern these fallacies. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 4)
The cause of God needs men of intellect, men and women of thought, who are well versed in the Scriptures, and who will not become discouraged. Those who know the power that the sanctifying influence of truth has upon the heart must tell of this power over and over again. Thus they will exert a persuasive influence over others. He who has given us the most solemn truth ever given to mortals designs that we should rise higher and higher to a state of perfection. Every step that we take is to be a step heavenward. The Lord expects us to do true, faithful work. Those standing in responsible positions are to guard carefully the spirit and words and actions. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 5)
Elder Daniells, men are called for at this time who understand how to meet the needs of the people. There are many who are filled with sentiments of unbelief, and who will have to be treated as a faithful physician would treat a diseased person who does not realize his condition. By earnest prayer and encouraging words, we must strengthen those who are weak in faith. In helping such souls, we shall just as surely help ourselves. Thus we shall obtain victories. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 6)
I am much pleased to see by your letters that you are coming into contact with men who know not the truth. I am glad that you could meet with ministers not of our faith and speak words that will lead them to stop and think. In the spirit and power of the gospel, you can speak to them in language that will make an impression upon their minds. I am much encouraged to see that you realize something of the greatness of the work to be done. The truth is to convict many who do not realize that there are higher attainments for them. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 7)
“Know ye not that they which run in a race run all; but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air; but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection, lest that by any means when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” [1 Corinthians 9:24-27.] (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 8)
Take time, wherever you are, to take physical exercise. You will find this a great benefit to you. Encourage all our ministers to do every day some work that will exercise their muscles. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 9)
I will close this up now, as I have other letters to write. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 10)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 96, 1910, 11)
Lt 98, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
October 10, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 1MR 307-308.
Elder A. G. Daniells
My dear Brother:
Last night, in plain sight from my bedroom window, the forest was ablaze. Men were at work all night fighting the fire, which was not checked till near morning. Today we are having a nice rain, the first this season. We are very thankful for this rain. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 1)
We are now to seek God most earnestly. I have been instructed by the Lord that calamities of every description will come upon the world. The end of all things is at hand, and the very things that have been presented to me will take place. Satan is powerful in carrying out his plans. Some are awaking to a realization of what will be in the future. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 2)
From your letter, I see that you are determined to respond to the messages that the Lord has been sending in regard to the work of the hour. For twenty years the Lord has been sending messages, urging His people to wake up. For the past ten years these messages have come with decided urgency. But Satan has been working with all his powers to keep commercialism in some form to the front as much as possible. He is striving through commercialism to gain control of minds, and we must see how essential it is to be prepared for what is to come. My soul is wrought up with an intensity that I cannot describe. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 3)
There are strange revealings in the business world. The daily papers are filled with reports of fraud. In today’s Chronicle I read the following headlines: “Bank teller gone with big shortage in accounts. Alleged theft of fifty thousand.” And another: “Papers report that hundreds perish in northern forest fire. Flight of settlers from on-rushing flames in lumber woods.” Just such scenes have been presented to me as taking place. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 4)
In the same paper that gives such a heart-rending account of the forest fires and the deaths in consequence of them, there is an account of most foolish expenditure of money for selfish pleasure. We are now to be preparing for the coming of the Lord. We have a large work before us. Let no time be devoted to frivolity or to an unwise expenditure of means. Let every idol be put away. Let the eye of faith see Jesus standing before the Father’s throne, holding out His wounded hands as He pleads for souls perishing in their sins. Let all of the Lord’s people be sure to use their means to send the truth to the needy ones. Let every penny be used to accomplish good. Now, just now, we are to prepare for what is before us. We are daily to gain an increase of strength. Let us by faith see the crowns laid up for those who overcome. Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, and has redeemed us to God. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 5)
Stephen, the first Christian martyr, in his conflict with principalities and powers and spiritual wickedness in high places, was given a view of heaven. Men under satanic influence hurled stones at the one who was presenting saving truth to the people; but with his face shining as the face of an angel, he exclaimed in words of triumph, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of God standing on the right hand of God.” [Acts 7:56.] He saw Christ looking upon him as he suffered death for the sake of his faith. His countenance was lighted up; for the light from Christ’s face shone upon him. Even his enemies saw that his face reflected the glory of the Redeemer. Let us praise God that we can behold by faith the reward of the righteous. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 6)
The Christian life must be a constant endeavor to honor and glorify God. We must say, I will to do Christ’s will. We must make it our first work to win souls to Christ, and we must be wide-awake. There is a heaven to win. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 7)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 98, 1910, 8)
Lt 100, 1910
Rumbough, Martha
St. Helena, California
October 5, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Mrs. Martha Rumbough
Asheville, North Carolina
Dear Sister Rumbough:
Your letter of September 29 was received and read with interest. I was glad to hear from you and shall be pleased to keep up a correspondence with you. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 1)
Last Sabbath I spoke in the chapel at the sanitarium. The sanitarium church and the management of the institution have enlarged the chapel in order to accommodate the increasing number of those attending the services. As enlarged, the chapel will accommodate about two hundred. Last Sabbath there was a good congregation. I spoke for about forty-five minutes. My voice was strong enough to be heard by all in the building, and I could have spoken longer. But I knew that this would not be prudent. Recently I have suffered much with a pain in my left side, and I made this speaking at the sanitarium a test of my strength. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 2)
Since returning from the Berkeley camp-meeting, I have attended a meeting at the Pacific Union College. Whenever you can come this way, we shall be very much pleased to see you, and we shall want you to see this school. We greatly appreciate this school farm in the mountains. The purchase of it was a wise step. A few days ago the school opened with an attendance of ninety-eight students, and since then the number has increased to one hundred and twenty. The teachers and students are now putting up a building which next year will be used as the girls’ dormitory. This winter the boys will use it, and during the term it will be finished off inside. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 3)
It is true that there is still a debt on the school, but when we have done the best we can, we must wait patiently till the Lord sets in operation some means of lifting us out of debt. We shall not worry, but be grateful that we have secured a school farm so far out of the cities. Everything in the cities is in confusion. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 4)
I am glad that you have bought the school farm at Naples as a training school for Christian workers. You are investing your means in a righteous cause. The Lord will recognize and reward your liberality. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 5)
To those who are starting out in this new work, I would say, Walk humbly with God. Some of you have preconceived opinions and plans that are not to be carried out in the school. Counsel together, and let all who shall unite in this enterprise show by lives of prudence that they are sanctified through the grace of Christ, partakers of the divine nature, daily escaping the corruption that is in the world through lust. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 6)
Let every man and woman remember that Christ is our Intercessor. He came to our world to suffer and die to make it possible, through His life of obedience in humanity, for human beings also to live lives of obedience. Every energy of the being is to be used in God’s service. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 7)
The one who repents of his sins and is converted is not to rest in self-confidence. He is safe only as he devotes himself heart and soul to the work of God. Let men and women work as Christ has given them an example, developing a Christlike character by doing all they possibly can in the service of the Redeemer. Never are they to swerve from the narrow way cast up for the ransomed of the Lord. They are to suffer, if need be, rather than yield to Satan’s claims and demand. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 8)
By the exercise of intelligent faith, by the appropriation of the Savior’s merits, which we have the right to claim, we, erring human beings, may become laborers together with God. And if we are workers together with God, we shall see of His salvation. We shall be recognized as the Lord’s servants, through whom He will communicate His eternal, life-giving principles to enlighten those who are in the darkness of error. We shall be enabled to speak words of truth that will bring souls to an understanding of God’s Word. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 9)
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Oh, how many times I have thought of how the Son of God veiled His divinity with humanity, and came to this earth to labor and suffer and die, in order to make it possible for fallen man to become a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Only think of the sacrifice that the Father made in sending His Son from the heavenly courts to this earth. Christ consented to come to the fallen world as a minister of righteousness for the saving of souls. He assumed humanity that He might give men and women a perfect pattern, that He might convince them of the possibility of their uniting with Him in His divine work, through grace becoming one with Him in God. He laid off His royal robe and kingly crown, turned from the glory of heaven and the homage of the heavenly host, and came to this world to be an example of suffering. And at the end of a life devoted to blessing and uplifting mankind, He met a most cruel death on the cross. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 10)
I have often thought of how the cup trembled in the hand of Christ. Lucifer mocked Christ in His supreme agony; but in this awful crisis, when everything was at stake, when the mysterious cup trembled in the hand of the Sufferer, the heavens opened, a light shone forth amid the stormy darkness of the hour, and the mighty angel who stands in God’s presence, occupying the position from which Satan fell, came to the side of Christ. The angel came not to take the cup from Christ’s hand, but to strengthen Him to drink it with the assurance of the Father’s love. He came to give power to the divine-human Sufferer. He pointed Him to the open heavens, telling Him of the souls that would be saved as the result of His sufferings. He assured Him that His Father is greater and more powerful than Satan, that his death would result in the utter discomfiture of Satan, and that the kingdoms of this world would be given to the saints of the Most High. He told Him that He would see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied; for He would see a multitude of the human race saved, eternally saved. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 11)
The Saviour became man’s substitute and surety. In our behalf He bore the shame of being treated as unjust. Without having one sin proven against Him, He submitted to the most shameful of all deaths—death by crucifixion. When Pilate was examining Christ, he declared, “I find no fault in Him.” [John 19:4.] “Art Thou a king then?” he asked the Saviour. Jesus answered, “Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth My voice. Pilate saith unto Him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in Him no fault at all. But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the Passover; will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews? Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 12)
“Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged Him. And the soldiers plaited a crown of thorns, and put it on His head, and they put on Him a purple robe, and said, Hail, King of the Jews! And they smote Him with their hands. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 13)
“Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring Him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in Him. Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe: And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 14)
“When the chief priests therefore and officers saw Him, they cried out, saying, Crucify Him, crucify Him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye Him, and crucify Him; for I find no fault in Him. The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law He ought to die, because He made Himself the Son of God.” [John 18:37-19:7.] (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 15)
Read the whole of the nineteenth chapter of John. This chapter is of special consequence to every one who claims to believe in Christ. It has been so vividly brought before me that I wish it might be read in all our churches. There are in our churches some who need to have this chapter and the previous one speak to their hearts. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 16)
The record of Christ’s suffering and death has been left us to strengthen those who, at the hands of wicked men, suffer for their faith. Christ died on the cross to enable very follower of His to keep the faith. Those who hold fast the faith will be given the righteousness of Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 17)
Study the twenty-fourth chapter of Luke. This is a wonderful chapter. Praise the Lord God of heaven that He so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son to save the sinful race. Every one who will repent and be converted will receive the gift of salvation. This the Saviour has made possible through suffering the penalty of death. All who come to the Father through faith in Christ, laying hold of the Saviour by faith, and following His example, will receive the assurance of the forgiveness of their sins. The sufferings of the Lord Jesus make it possible for every soul to be sanctified through a belief of the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 18)
“Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.] We believe in Christ, and every enterprise that we enter upon, every school or sanitarium that we establish, is to be conducted along the lines that He has laid down. No departure from Christ’s teachings is to be passed over indifferently. He gave His precious life to save souls who are perishing for need of a Saviour. O that it were in the hearts of all who have heard and received the words of truth to live the truth as it is in Jesus. All who take part in the work of the Lord are to be lead and guided by Him. Every human ambition is to be merged in Christ. Our trust is to be in the One who is head over all things. The cross must occupy the central place; for “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 19)
You ask for a copy of the testimony given me while in Asheville, in May, 1909. My son tells me that he sent you copies of some things that I wrote then. Was there another? If so, we shall look for it. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 20)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 100, 1910, 21)
Lt 102, 1910
White, J. E.
St. Helena, California
October 12, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in RY 31; CM 111; 6Bio 229-230. +
Elder J. E. White
My dear son Edson:
We are having the first rain of the season. It began to fall yesterday and is coming down very gently. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 1)
This morning Dores came in early to tell me that last night Ella gave birth to a baby girl. It is a fine, plump child and weighs eight and a quarter pounds. Dores came in early to tell me so that my mind might be at rest. Both mother and child are doing well so that this cause of anxiety is removed. Ella has an excellent nurse. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 2)
I have written a letter to Sister Rumbough, of which I wish you to have a copy. I am very thankful for my eyesight. I do what I can to preserve it. I bathe my eyes regularly in water in which there is a little salt. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 3)
Last night I had a hard, serious time. My left side has troubled me for years, but recently I have had relief until about three months ago. Since then the pain in my heart has worried me somewhat. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 4)
Last Sabbath I spoke in the chapel at the sanitarium. The sanitarium church and the management of the institution have enlarged the chapel in order to accommodate the increasing number of those attending the services. As enlarged, the chapel will accommodate about three hundred. Last Sabbath there was a good congregation. I spoke for about forty-five minutes. My voice was strong enough to be heard by all in the building, and I could have spoken longer. But I knew that this would not be prudent. Dr. Rand was very much pleased that I was able to speak, and all seemed glad to hear me. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 5)
I made this speaking at the sanitarium a test of my strength; for some of the brethren have been urging me to attend the Visalia camp-meeting. But I realize that the Lord does not require me to do this. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 6)
I am so grateful that my voice is still strong, and that if I am able to stand on my feet, I can speak. I am thankful, very thankful to my heavenly Father for His great mercy and lovingkindness to me in my old age. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 7)
I am trying to complete some chapters on Old Testament history. I shall not feel at liberty to lay down my pen as long as my right hand is as steady as ever. I have not come to the point of folding my hands or closing my lips, and I shall not, as long as I have a voice that can be heard. I am testing my voice, and my hearers say that it is still clear and forcible. I thank the Lord that at my age I can still speak clearly and distinctly. I attended the Berkeley camp-meeting and spoke several times in the large tent. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 8)
The Lord blesses me as I write on Bible subjects and as I speak to the people. Again and again, when oppressed by feebleness, I decide that I have spoken for the last time. But the time comes when I get up to speak again, and when on my feet, I can usually speak for an hour. I realize that angels of God are by my side, and my words are of an order to help our people. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 9)
I hope that none of those who have been long in the work will think that because they are growing old, they are incapacitated for service. I hope that they will stand up to bear their message as long as they have the evidence that the Lord is helping them. Edson, encourage the men who have long borne burdens in our work. Even though in their old age their memory may fail somewhat, yet respect them, and the Lord will surely bless you. And let no aged worker, although he is old and grey, think that he is released from service. Let the work be carried on in simplicity. Surely we have the Lord on whom to depend. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 10)
We are receiving some wonderfully encouraging letters, telling of the deepening and spread of the work, and of its influence on people of all nationalities and all classes. Our canvassers are having marked success. And why should they not? The heavenly angels are working with them. Hundreds of those who believe the truth will, if they keep their hearts humble, do a good work, in the companionship of heavenly angels. God will use those who humble the heart before Him, and sanctify themselves in faith and humility, following the example of the great Teacher, and speaking words that will enlighten those not of our faith. We are to work patiently and disinterestedly, as the servants of the Lord, opening the Scriptures to others. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 11)
I feel intensely as I think of how our Saviour worked when on this earth, traveling on foot from place to place, followed by great multitudes of people. How untiringly He labored. He allowed nothing to turn Him from the work that He was given to do. He is our example. We are to obey His teachings. Are we following in His footsteps? It is God’s plan to save men and women from the deeply laid plans of Satan and his army. Let us encourage all whom we can to carry forward the Lord’s great work in the fulfilment of the plan of redemption. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 12)
The world is becoming ripe for destruction. We need now to put on the armor of Christ’s righteousness and work as never before. We must wake up to a realization of the work to be done. We have no time to lose. I feel intensely over the thought of the unworked cities. I am much encouraged by the letters I have recently received, which show that there is a waking up amongst our brethren. Letters from Elder Daniells and others speak in regard to the work that must be done. They are surprised as they see the interest shown in the truth by people of different nationalities. These people are calling for light. As they see the unworked cities, our brethren realize the greatness of the work to be done. Many who in the past ought to have been wide-awake, giving heed to the messages sent, have been asleep. Our people are now to awake. If all will do their duty, we shall see the work of the Lord carried forward in earnest. May God help us, is my prayer. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 13)
Your mother. (25LtMs, Lt 102, 1910, 14)
Lt 104, 1910
Haskell, Brother and Sister
St. Helena, California
October 18, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in UL 305; 7MR 407.
Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I have received and read your letters. I thank you for your painstaking efforts to write to me. You write the very news that I wish to hear. I am pleased to hear from you and to know of your successful meetings. The good report is like cold water to a thirsty soul. Let every one of us have increased faith, and let us walk humbly before God. O how much suffering of soul I have experienced as I have seen time passing, and the many places to which my attention has been called still unentered by our workers. Were these places worked as they should be, many souls would rejoice in the light; for Christ is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. I wish that I could unite with you in your work. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 1)
Maggie is with us again. Her husband is united with her in the faith and is proving very useful in the place. They have one child, a very nice little lad of two and a half years. I wish I could tell you how well Maggie and her husband fit in. They can both act their part, Maggie as copyist and her husband in the various lines of work on the farm. Maggie takes hold as if she had not been separated from us for over three years. We thank the Lord for these workers. Maggie’s past experience in my work will be useful. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 2)
I am trying to complete some unfinished chapters on Old Testament history. I am hoping that I shall be able to get together matter for the completion of a book covering the ground between the end of David’s reign and the birth of Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 3)
There is a world to be warned, and we are twenty years behind in the doing of this work. Our work will be harder now than it would have been; for difficulties have arisen that did not then exist. The years are rapidly passing, bearing away their record for eternity. Wherever you see work to be done, do your very best, after the order of Christ. Place yourselves under the discipline of God. He who professes to be a Christian, and yet acts out the spirit of a worldling, bears testimony that he is a false disciple. We are to be consecrated workers, according to the charge given in the thirty-third chapter of Ezekiel: (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 4)
“So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me. When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity, but thou hast delivered thy soul. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 5)
“Therefore, O thou son of man, speak unto the house of Israel; thus speak ye, saying, If our transgressions and our sins be upon us, and we pine away in them, how should we then live? Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel? (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 6)
“Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression; as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth. When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 7)
“Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right; if the wicked restore the pledge and give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die. None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely live.” [Verses 7-16.] (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 8)
Had the message gone forth as the Lord specified that it should go, in the power of the Spirit, thousands would have been brought to a knowledge of the truth. The Lord gave me a message to bear at the last General Conference. Some of the leading men did not co-operate with me; but I held up the work that God desired to see done by converted men, men who could demonstrate the power of the Christian religion. Heaven is to be reflected in the character of the Christian. In the way Christ worked, he is to work. Our cause should be years in advance of what it is. It was God’s plan that those in darkness should see great light. A wonderful work might have been done had the leading men been under the Holy Spirit’s guidance. If the messages given me had been received, the good tidings of the gospel should have been borne in many places, and bright rays of heavenly light would have shone into the darkness. Songs of praise would have been heard from many lips. Many souls is our great cities, wearied and perplexed, not knowing what is truth, would have heard the glad tidings of the gospel. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 9)
Had the light given by God been heeded, strong, well-organized companies would have been sent out into the cities to take the truth to those in the darkness of error. But the opportunity that the Lord presented to His people, in the messages that He sent them, was not accepted. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 10)
Christ’s work was one of constant progress. In His life He has left us an example of how we are to labor. Constantly He went about doing good. His life was one of unselfish service. In the temple, in the streets, in the field, by the wayside, wherever He went, He spoke to souls of God. Through Him the light of the gospel shone forth to weary, oppressed souls. Christ preached the gospel and healed the sick. His tender, pitying love rebukes all selfishness and heartlessness. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 11)
Wherever Christ went, He scattered blessings. Listen to His lessons of kindness, and His far-reaching words of 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 of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] There was no wearying of His patience, no repressing of His love. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 12)
I am charged with a message to all upon whom the light of truth has shone. They are to labor patiently and perseveringly for the thousands perishing in their sins, scattered in all lands like wrecks on a desert shore. All who share in Christ’s glory must share in His ministry, helping the poor, the weak, the homeless. We must be intensely in earnest, using every capability in the Lord’s service. Precious results will surely follow unselfish efforts. From the great Teacher, the workers will receive the highest of all education. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 13)
We talk of higher education. This is the highest education—to make the life of Christ our constant lesson book. Let every soul whose name is on the church books put away all pride, all frivolity, all desire to follow the fashions of the world. We are to receive from Christ the highest education possible, in order that we may not lead souls into paths that God forbids. There is to be no limit to the perfection of the example that we are to set unbelievers. No loose, shiftless work is to come into our religious experience and training. Human beings have no right to think that there is a limit to the efforts they are to make in the work of soul-saving. Those who are truly converted will understand that they will never see the Lord in His glory unless they form characters that will harmonize with the character of Christ. Those who are indifferent in regard to bringing thoughts and words and actions into harmony with Christ will never enter the gates of the city of God. Precious results will follow the efforts made out of sincere love for Christ. The Lord calls upon His people to take up the work to which He has been calling them from the first. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 14)
God demands that those who claim to be His children shall offer Him their undivided service. Profession will not save us. False disciples will be punished according to the evil that they have done to the cause of God. Of what value are the words spoken if the course of action contradicts the profession of faith? (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 15)
Clear, distinct light comes to every one who claims to be a Christian. Does he live the life of Christ in the home, and thus teach his children to speak right words and do right deeds? Is he, in spirit and word and act, an illustration of what a Christian should be? There are many who will lose heaven because they are not Christlike. (25LtMs, Lt 104, 1910, 16)
Lt 106, 1910
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
Sanitarium, California
October 23, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in Ev 96; 7MR 312-313.
Dear Brother and Sister Kress:
I have recently received several letters from you. We are much pleased to hear from you. I am sorry that you are in perplexity and uncertain regarding your duty. I wish that I could by writing remove all the perplexities that are troubling your mind; but this I cannot do. The Lord lives and reigns. He understands just how you are situated, and He can prepare the way before you. (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 1)
The Lord Jesus is to be your instructor. As you try to do the will of God, the Lord will help you to adjust the difficulties that may arise. Do not look on the dark side of any question. Do not fail or be discouraged. (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 2)
Again and again I am impressed with the advantages to be gained by your moving your family to Melrose. I know that your experience might be of value to the institution there, and that if you were to unite with Brother and Sister Starr, you might accomplish an important work in the city of Boston. (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 3)
When I visited Melrose last year, I was greatly pained at the conditions existing there. The head physician and the business manager were not laboring together harmoniously, and the spiritual needs of the helpers and the patients were sadly neglected. I am greatly desirous that this institution shall be placed on vantage ground, and it is in harmony with the light I have received that there should be brought into the Melrose Sanitarium the influence of families who can be a spiritual help to the workers, and who can also do a special work in the neighboring cities. (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 4)
The Melrose Sanitarium has come into our possession in the providence of God. It has excellent water privileges and is located in a beautiful park, which is kept up by the city without expense to us. The advantages of this institution have been kept before me. I desire that the mind of the Lord in regard to it may be met, and that its influence may extend as a light to the city of Boston. Time is rapidly passing, and the enemy is pleased to see the work for these large cities delayed. (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 5)
I shall be pleased if you can feel clear to move with your family to the vicinity of Boston, where you may unite with Elder Starr in evangelistic work. But I shall not urge this more than I have done. This move would be in harmony with the light I have received regarding your work and the work to be carried forward in the city of Boston. I believe that if you will cheerfully take up this line of work for a year, you will be able to see the will of the Lord more clearly than you do now. You may not now understand all that you wish to know, but as you advance, the way will open before you. As you move out on what light you have, increased light will come. (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 6)
With these suggestions, I must leave the decision of this matter to your judgment, as workers in the service of God, to be taught by Him. There is a great work before us all. My burden is not for our workers to give special labor to those who know the truth. The message from the Lord to me is that the long-neglected cities, which have had so little attention, are now to be entered. God says, “Enter the cities. Give the inhabitants of these cities the call to prepare for the coming of the Lord.” (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 7)
Day and night I am at work, preparing matter to send to our people. Many in the cities are still without the light of the gospel message. Those who neglect to sound forth the last message of warning will in the future suffer deep regret. My message is, “Let companies be organized to enter the cities. Seek proper locations for holding meetings. Circulate our literature. Make earnest efforts to reach the people.” (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 8)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 106, 1910, 9)
Lt 108, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
September 1, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in MM 140. +
Elder A. G. Daniells
My dear Brother:
We have just been getting a number of letters ready for the mail. And now I wish to write to you. I have become worn with sleepless nights, and with the apparent failure of my effort to make my ministering brethren understand the largeness of our work and its necessities at this time. I fear that I have been unable to present the matter in the forcible way in which it has been presented to me. I have written and written with an intensity and a burden that but few realize. I have felt at times that unless this burden should be lifted, I could not live. Some nights I lie awake for many hours in an agony of distress because there are those who, notwithstanding the light that has been given, are indifferent regarding the work to be done. This sense of the true state of things has been a grievous trial to me. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 1)
But I rejoice to see that some are now awaking; for this I praise God with heart and soul and voice. Let the ministers in all our conferences look with sincere heart and soul to the Lord Jesus, to learn of Him the message that is to be borne. The work now to be done is to sound the message of present truth to those who have never heard it. I praise the Lord that there is an awakening amongst our brethren. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 2)
The question of the wages that the laborers should receive is one point that will need most careful investigation and consideration. When a minister and his wife are laboring together, each one acting a part, they should both receive wages. If they both do faithful work, it is proper to regard both of them as laborers together with God. The Lord is a just God, and it is His purpose that each faithful laborer shall be given a stated sum, so that he may have the privilege of appropriating and using it as his judgment, sanctified to the Lord, shall dictate. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 3)
In some cases great discouragement has come upon certain laborers because the wife has been scarcely taken into account by those entrusted with the work of paying the laborers. The wife of the minister who has a part to act in connection with her husband should receive something for her work so that she may give to the work where she sees the greatest need. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 4)
In some cases the wife of the minister has been ignored, and injustice has been done her. I have a message for those who have done this. When both husband and wife are working with intensity of desire to save perishing souls, it is not just or right to withhold the wages that should be paid to the wife. Her time is of value, and she should be given encouragement. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 5)
Let the work now move forward as it should, in order and justice. The woman who carries burdens side by side with her husband should also have her share of means to use; for often she sees where help is much needed. She should be given the wage that she justly earns. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 6)
The minister and his wife who are truly converted, and who give themselves wholly to the work of the Lord, are daily becoming more and more intelligent and efficient in their labor for others. They can open the Scriptures to souls in such a way as to bring light to minds in darkness. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 7)
Women can learn what needs to be done to reach other women. There are women who are especially adapted for the work of giving Bible readings, and they are very successful in presenting the Word of God in its simplicity to others. They become a great blessing in reaching mothers and their daughters. This is a sacred work, and those engaged in it should receive encouragement. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 8)
In the medical missionary work to be done, women should give treatment to women. A man and his wife who are both physicians can accomplish great good by laboring together. The wife can visit other women, and when she finds suffering and disease, she can consult with her husband as to the best method of helping the sufferers. We should have more women physicians than we have. When women who are sick are treated and cared for by women, a door through which Satan tries to enter is closed against him. Many cases have been presented to me where Satan has entered through this door to ruin families. Let him not obtain any advantage upon any point. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 9)
I wish all to understand this matter. There should be in our sanitariums women physicians who can stand by their husbands, and who can do the examining of women patients and give them treatment. Many more sensible, thoroughly converted women should become intelligent physicians. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 10)
I am instructed that our sanitariums must have women physicians as well as men physicians. But I can merely touch upon this matter now. May the Lord instruct minds. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 11)
The wives of our doctors should become intelligent in regard to the laws of healthful living. If they have children, they should diligently educate them to be the Lord’s helping hand. They should watch unto prayer, that when opportunity offers, they can speak words in the sickroom that will prove a blessing. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 12)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 108, 1910, 13)
Lt 112, 1910
Morton, Eliza
St. Helena, California
October 31, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Miss Eliza Morton
My dear Sister:
I have received and read your letter. I was glad to hear from you and much pleased to know that you are making a visit to the Melrose Sanitarium. This sanitarium I very highly appreciate. Few places that I have seen are so well suited for sanitarium purposes. The Lord provided this property to be used by us as a sanitarium. He would have us appreciate it. I hope that you will become so thoroughly acquainted with the institution that you will be led to estimate it highly. (25LtMs, Lt 112, 1910, 1)
I am glad that Dr. Bliss looks upon your case favorably and that you are giving your tired nerves a rest. I will give you the credit of being sensible in this. I hope that rest may entirely remove the difficulty. And I hope that while you are at the sanitarium you will take advantage of the opportunity to drive about and view the beauty and the natural advantages of the grounds in which the sanitarium is situated. These grounds are cared for by special workers; and to see that everything is in order, officers are continually riding about in different directions through the park. While we were there, we felt that we were under protection. (25LtMs, Lt 112, 1910, 2)
Were it not for my writing, I should make another trip to the East. You speak of Portland, Maine, and of your desire to see medical missionary work started there. I thank the Lord that some work has been done in Portland, and that little by little the difficulties are being adjusted. If I were free from my work of writing, I should certainly make a visit to Portland and to Melrose. But I am now writing on Old Testament history, hoping to get material enough to cover the ground between Patriarchs and Prophets and Desire of Ages. When this book is completed, I shall certainly, if the Lord strengthens me, visit Portland and Melrose and Boston. I cannot express in words the longing desire I have for my friends in Portland, and also for that most desirable place, Melrose. I should be very glad to spend a summer in these two places. (25LtMs, Lt 112, 1910, 3)
I am glad that Brother and Sister Kress have a burden for Portland. The Lord has been drawing them to the work in Boston, and I hope they will make a home in Melrose. If this is the Lord’s will, I shall thank Him. I shall be so grateful if Portland and Boston can be worked. In both of these places most earnest efforts are to be put forth. (25LtMs, Lt 112, 1910, 4)
I must close my letter now, asking the Lord to carry out His will and to work to His own name’s glory. Let us place ourselves individually under the Holy Spirit’s guidance. I long to see my Redeemer and express the gratitude of my soul to Him who gave His life for me. I have every reason to magnify the name of Jesus. (25LtMs, Lt 112, 1910, 5)
Let me hear from you again. I shall be glad to hear about your movements and plans, and about the progress of the work in Portland and other places in the East. (25LtMs, Lt 112, 1910, 6)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 112, 1910, 7)
Lt 114, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
October 27, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in 19MR 393-395.
Elder A. G. Daniells
My dear Brother:
When I took up my pen this morning to begin to write, my left eye failed me. I cannot use it; but I can use my right eye. This is a strange experience for me in recent years. But in the early years of my work, I did much of the writing for my books with my left eye bandaged. And it may be that I shall again be afflicted in the same way. But I thank the Lord that for many years now I have been able to use both eyes. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 1)
I am now writing on Old Testament history. I have just completed an article on Esther. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 2)
Maggie is with us again and takes hold of the work as if she had not been away. Although her name is changed she is still the same earnest worker. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 3)
The experience that you had in the wrecking of the large tent during the Battle Creek camp-meeting is a sure and crowning evidence that Satan is at work. As the Lord’s people show their determination to follow the light that the Lord has given, the enemy will bring all his powers to bear to discourage them. But they are not to give up because of the difficulties that arise when they try to follow the counsel of the Lord. God has given us His work to do; and if we comply with His requirements, we shall be blessed. The Lord has shown me that we shall have to meet experiences just such as have taken place. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 4)
The enemy is actively at work, as you will see as you travel on his territory, opening the Word of God to the people. As the last message of mercy is proclaimed by human lips, Satan will try to storm his way to the front. But he cannot prevail against Christ. As we present the truth that shows the people the evil of his delusions, his anger will be aroused, and he will do all in his power to hinder our efforts. But continue to present a “Thus saith the Lord,” remembering that God is your helper. Do not give the enemy the right of way. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 5)
Satan would fill the world with commercialism, and he has succeeded in inducing some of our leading men to turn away from the light given by God. Several who were once our ministers are working out the devising of the fallen angel. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 6)
Elder Daniells, you have been given the most certain evidence that you will be sustained by the Lord. Be of good courage. The Lord must be our trust. I am not in the least discouraged. When I heard that during the Battle Creek camp-meeting, the large tent was twice blown down and torn, I felt that if those engaged in that meeting would show a decided front, the enemy would be defeated. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 7)
Satan was once the most glorious angel in the heavenly courts. But he allowed a desire for supremacy to take possession of him, and he was expelled from heaven. He came to this earth and entered with great zeal into commercialism. And unless we stand loyal and true by the side of Prince Emmanuel, we shall be ensnared. Some of our ministers have been led astray because they would not follow the light that the Lord gave them. Those who have thus departed from the faith may not realize it, but they are following the fallen angel. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 8)
In the future, strange things will happen. I tell you this so that you may not be surprised at what takes place. We shall all need to maintain a close connection with the Lord. The end is much nearer than when we first believed. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 9)
What strange occurrences are being brought to our notice in the daily papers. Men are hazarding their lives in an attempt to do strange things. The Lord has not laid upon any one the doing of these things; for souls are not saved through such exhibitions of foolhardiness. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 10)
On certain occasions large companies of people are drawn together to witness the feats of men in flying through the air. The lives of many of those attempting these feats are sacrificed. It is not the God of heaven who leads men to attempt these hazardous feats. It is the god of this world whom they are serving. It is Satan who inspires men to enter into these foolhardy projects, just to see what men can do. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 11)
Before he fell, Satan wanted Christ’s position. Because he could not have it, he became desperate, rebelled, and was cast out of heaven. Because he was restrained from carrying out his plans, he decided that he would be his own god. He came to this world, and here he determined to do a great work through commercialism. He laid his plans to turn the world into a place where he could carry out his strange devisings. But the Lord forbade his plans. He has been made to understand that there is a Ruler in the heavens over the inhabitants of the world. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 12)
The great controversy between good and evil is being waged. Under the leadership of Satan there are men who today are doing all in their power to plunge the world into commercial strife. Thus Satan is trying to bring about a condition of things that will make the world uncivilized. He desires to see strange things acted out, which God, who is too wise to err, has not ordained. But the Lord, yes, Our God, will be Ruler of the heavens and the earth. If men and women will carry out His requirements, it will be seen that He is Ruler, carrying out His divine will. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 13)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 114, 1910, 14)
Lt 116, 1910
Workman, Mabel
St. Helena, California
November 2, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Mabel Workman
My dear Granddaughter:
I should be pleased to see you and your husband. I expect that we shall see you both some day. I am thankful that you can both give a good report of your health. The work of caring for your health must rest upon yourselves individually. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 1)
I keep in mind that every individual soul is accountable to God for the way in which his service to the Lord is carried forward. This is a subject that requires deep thought and much seeking the Lord. We need now to maintain a singleness of purpose; for our time to work is short. We need the wisdom that comes from Christ, who is our sanctification and our righteousness. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 2)
“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. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 3)
“And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of Him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: but if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” [1 John 1:1-10.] (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 4)
Read also the second chapter of First John. I shall not follow this out further. But I want to be sure that you are walking in the knowledge of the truth and are a partaker of the divine nature. We must not crowd upon our minds such a variety of things that we shall lose the true understanding of what the Lord Jesus presents in His teachings. Our minds may improve constantly in the effort to comprehend the requirements of the plain “Thus saith the Lord.” Now is the time to obtain the genuine experience that is of more value than we really recognize. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 5)
It means much to walk humbly with God. Everything is gained by those who do this. For God to say, as He looks upon us personally, “Faithful in that which is least” [Luke 16:10], is of more value than gold or silver or precious stones. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 6)
Mabel, your mother committed you and Ella to my charge, and yet it seems that the opportunities for seeing you personally are so limited. I did not see as much of you as I wished to at the Washington Conference. My experience in that meeting was of a character that but few could comprehend. I dared not let loose of the work, but had to stand at my post of duty, hoping and praying that every purpose of God which during the meeting was distinctly laid upon me, I might, through Christ’s strength, carry through. The Lord heard my earnest prayer and helped me. I hope that in all the meetings that I shall henceforth attend, I shall have such gracious revealings as I had at that meeting. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 7)
It seems that for years the world has been going on in a strange fashion. Strange things are happening. Men are turning the world into a holiday. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 8)
Mabel, I am as anxious as possible for you to be constantly improving. I cannot speak to you except with the pen. But you can feel that in me, you and your husband have one whom you can address and be understood. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 9)
I shall be glad to hear from you, but I shall not urge you to answer all the letters I may send you. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 10)
Your grandmother. (25LtMs, Lt 116, 1910, 11)
Lt 117, 1910
White, W. C.
Refiled as Lt 127, 1910.
Lt 118, 1910
White, W. C.
St. Helena, California
November 6, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Elder W. C. White
Nashville, Tennessee
My dear Son:
We have just returned from a visit to the Pacific Union College. Sara and I went up on Friday afternoon. Brother Atwood took us up in the Kellogg carriage, with the double team. I felt drawn upon to go to the school, and Friday was a remarkably fine day, so that there was nothing to hinder us. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 1)
We had an excellent visit there. On Sabbath I spoke for an hour on the third chapter of Daniel, dwelling upon the Lord’s wonderful deliverance of the three Hebrew worthies. The Lord blessed me in speaking on this interesting history, and I was enabled to bring out some important principles regarding the working out of the Lord’s purpose for the children of obedience and the children of disobedience. My strength was increased as I spoke. The chapel was full, and all present seemed to be much interested. Several spoke to me afterward of their satisfaction at hearing me speak, and I was made glad that I went. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 2)
On the following night my sleep was broken by continual thought in regard to my work in the future. On Sunday morning Brother and Sister C. W. Irwin and Sister G. A. Irwin visited me in my room—also Sister Andre. We had an excellent little talk. They expressed their satisfaction at my having chosen the subject that I did to speak upon. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 3)
I was glad that my visit to the school made a favorable impression. I tried to do my duty. All seems pleasant and agreeable among the workers at the school. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 4)
Brother Atwood drove us back. The drive was not a tedious one. I am thankful that I went. I was somewhat tired when I got home, but I thought that I would answer your letter. I shall be glad to hear from you as often as possible. I hope that you will not expose yourself to danger in hastening to fill your appointments. I hope that you will avoid all exposure. We cannot afford to be laid aside by sickness; for we have left us but a short time to do the work that has been so long neglected. Both you and Elder Daniells must guard your health. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 5)
Now another matter. Brother Henry Kellogg sent me two hundred dollars of tithe money to be appropriated where most needed. How would it do to send this money to Portland, Maine, to be used in the work there? Would this be the right thing to do? I shall await your answer before appropriating it. You may see somewhere a more pressing need. But at this time I see no greater necessity than the work in Portland, Maine. Please write me in regard to this matter, telling me if you think the money should be appropriated elsewhere. I want to help the cause in Portland, but I do not want to misappropriate one dollar of the means now so much needed. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 6)
I hope that as the work of entering long-neglected places is taken up, many gifts for the advancement of this work will come in. We shall do what we can here. May the Lord move upon men to give the warning, and may He move upon the hearts of His people to give liberally for this work. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 7)
I am earnestly trying to do my appointed work in writing on Old Testament history. I shall take right hold of this work and try to carry it through. May the Lord Jesus help me, is my prayer. What a work there is before us! Satan is seeking in every way possible to hinder the efforts that are being made to advance the truth. We must now put forth most diligent, earnest efforts; for we have but a short time in which to work. We are to watch unto prayer and seek to save souls. How I long to see our ministers and lay members increasing in faith and hope and courage. How I long to see them hunting and fishing for souls. We must take up the burden and not lay if off till the warfare is accomplished. We must press into the unworked cities, and we shall find that the Lord is there to help us. We must try as never before to reach the people and arouse them to a sense of their perilous condition. What excuse can we offer for our neglect of souls? Shall we not now go forth in earnest to do our appointed work. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 8)
I have written this very hastily. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 9)
Your mother. (25LtMs, Lt 118, 1910, 10)
Lt 120, 1910
White, W. C.
St. Helena, California
November 7, 1910
Previously unpublished.
My dear son Willie:
I have just received your letter of two pages, written from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I was glad to hear from you. (25LtMs, Lt 120, 1910, 1)
I have already written to you about our trip to the college. I enjoyed my visit very much, and the Lord blessed me with physical strength. On Sabbath I spoke for an hour without weariness. I spoke on the deliverance of the three Hebrews from the fiery furnace, and the Lord helped me to bring out the points clearly. The congregation was the most solemn one I have spoken to for a long time. My voice was clear and distinct, and while speaking I had not the least sense of weariness. The next morning I had a very interesting interview with Sister Irwin and her son and his wife. (25LtMs, Lt 120, 1910, 2)
I am still writing on the book of Esther and am anxious to make all I possibly can of my time till the manuscript for the book between Patriarchs and Prophets and Desire of Ages is completed. (25LtMs, Lt 120, 1910, 3)
I must now send this letter over to Maggie to be copied. With it I am sending you copies of letter to Edson and Dr. Kress. I had fully made up my mind, when I sent Dr. Kress my last letter, that it would not be just to myself or my work to write to him again. The thought came to my mind, “A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.” (25LtMs, Lt 120, 1910, 4)
I am doing very well, and this morning rode as usual to the watering trough. I am much better than I expected to be after my trip. For this I praise the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 120, 1910, 5)
Lt 122, 1910
White, J. E.; White, Emma
St. Helena, California
November 7, 1910
Previously unpublished.
My dear Edson and Emma:
I felt that I must write you a few lines this afternoon. I have written to Willie, and will now write a few lines to you. I do not know whether Emma is at home, but I shall include her in my letter. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 1)
I should be glad to see you both. I wish you were living nearer us, so that we could be united in our work. I cannot understand why we cannot be together; but if it is your choice to live in Nashville, I shall not complain. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 2)
The Lord is soon to finish up His work, and for this I am thankful. The great thing for each of us now is to be prepared to close up our earthly history. If our life is hid with Christ in God, then when the seal of God is placed in the forehead, whatever may betide, or wherever we may be, we shall be safe. If we now make our calling and election sure, we shall be protected in the coming storm. Let those who have a knowledge of the truth live out the light they have received; for it will not be long before the end comes. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 3)
I should like to visit you and speak in the churches in and near Nashville. But at present I am very busy with my work, writing on Old Testament history. I am completing some articles on Esther and shall proceed to finish several partly written chapters. I shall make the most possible of my time until I have completed my writing for the book that comes between Patriarchs and Prophets and Desire of Ages. I am anxious for this volume to be placed in completed form with the rest. With this work before me, I should not dare to travel far from home now. But I think of you all and should be so thankful if you could visit me. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 4)
I should like to take you to see the Pacific Union College. I thank the Lord that this school is as far up on the mountain as it is. The location is healthful. The air seems so pure and clear, and the buildings already erected can be used in the work of the school. Just now a dormitory is being erected. Next year this building will be used for the girls, but this year the boys will occupy it and will do the inside finishing. This building has been put up with timber taken from the school farm and cut by the school mill. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 5)
We are much pleased with the students at the school. They seem to be an excellent class of young people. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 6)
I have not visited the school often; for I overworked last winter, and I have had to be careful of my strength. But last Friday, Sara and I drove up to the college. I felt drawn upon to go, and Friday was a remarkably fine day, so that there was nothing to hinder us. We had an excellent visit. On Sabbath I spoke for an hour on the third chapter of Daniel, dwelling upon the Lord’s wonderful deliverance of the three Hebrew worthies. The Lord blessed me in speaking on this interesting subject, and I was enabled to bring out some important principles. My strength was increased as I spoke. The chapel was full, and all present seemed to be much interested. Several spoke to me afterward of their satisfaction at hearing me speak, and I was made glad that I went. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 7)
The next morning, Brother and Sister C. W. Irwin and Sister G. A. Irwin came to my room, and we had an excellent interview. They expressed their satisfaction at my choosing the subject that I did to speak upon. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 8)
We drove home on Sunday morning in the carriage that your father purchased a short time before his death. It is an easy carriage to ride in, and I was not weary when I reached home. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 9)
It is getting dark, and I must stop. I wish that I could see you, children. (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 10)
Your mother (25LtMs, Lt 122, 1910, 11)
Lt 124, 1910
Kress, Brother and sister [D. H.]
St. Helena, California
November 8, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Drs. D. H. and L. Kress
My dear Brother and Sister Kress:
In the letters that I have sent you, I have given you the instruction given me for you, and I have had no further light regarding your duty. I can give you no better advice than I have given you. After you have received the best counsel your brethren can give you, you must, in the fear of God, decide what He would have you do. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 1)
If you have clear light, follow it. Make the Lord Jesus your counselor, and walk in the light as He is in the light. Act in harmony with your convictions of duty, and the results will demonstrate the wisdom of your decision. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 2)
Please do not expect me to make the decision for you; for this I cannot do. Your letters bring to me great perplexity. I have spent many wakeful nights, in great distress of mind, over cases such as yours, which I have tried to help. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 3)
I desire that my mind shall as far as possible be kept free from unnecessary perplexity; for I have a large work before me to accomplish. I am writing on Old Testament history and am anxious to complete the partly finished manuscript for a book which is to cover the ground between Patriarchs and Prophets and Desire of Ages. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 4)
Last week the Lord strengthened me to make a visit to the Pacific Union College. On Sabbath I spoke for an hour to a full house. I stood on my feet without weariness, and my voice was clear and distinct. I spoke on the deliverance of the three Hebrews from the fiery furnace, and the Lord helped me to bring out the points clearly. The congregation was the most solemn one to which I have spoken for a long time. I was blessed with strength and while speaking had not the least sense of weariness. Several expressed their pleasure at hearing me speak. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 5)
The next morning I had an interesting interview with Sister G. A. Irwin and her son and his wife. I praise the Lord for His goodness to me in strengthening me to make this visit. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 6)
We drove home in the carriage that my husband purchased a short time before his death. It is an easy carriage to ride in, and I was not weary when we reached home. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 7)
I must close now, as it is getting dark. I pray that you will be given clear light as to your duty. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 8)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 124, 1910, 9)
Lt 126, 1910
Haskell, Brother and Sister
St. Helena, California
November 9, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
On Friday Sara and I went up to the college. Brother Atwood drove us in the two-seated, covered carriage that my husband bought just a short time before his death. I sold this carriage to Dr. Kellogg; and after we returned from Australia, he sent it to me as a gift. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 1)
I stood the journey to the school well, and the next morning I thought that I would test my strength by speaking in the chapel. The room was well filled, and I spoke for an hour without any sense of weariness, presenting portions of the first, second, and third chapters of the book of Daniel. I dwelt particularly on the deliverance of the three Hebrews from the fiery furnace. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 2)
“Therefore, because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 3)
“Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 4)
“Then Nebuchadnezzar came near unto the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came forth from the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.” [Daniel 3:22-27.] (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 5)
Then comes the king’s testimony: “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent His angel, and delivered His servants that trusted in Him, and hath changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any God, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree that every people, nation, and language, which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces.... Because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.” [Verses 28, 29.] (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 6)
I speak, you know, slowly, and my hearers could take in all that I said in the hour’s talk. I had no reason to complain of inattention. I never before spoke to a more solemn and attentive congregation. My voice did not fail me, and I was strengthened and blessed. This has given me courage and confidence in the strength that the Lord has given me. I am prepared to talk when the Lord impresses me to and to believe that He will strengthen me. The effort that I made at the college is an assurance that the Lord will bring my strength back to me. I shall now take courage that I shall be able to continue my public speaking. I am so thankful that I made this trial, and made it successfully. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 7)
I was very much pleased with the riveted attention that those present paid to the word spoken. Several spoke of their appreciation of the discourse. The next morning young Brother and Sister Irwin and Sister G. A. Irwin came to my room, and we had an excellent interview. They expressed their satisfaction at my choosing the subject that I did to speak upon. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 8)
I thank the Lord for strengthening me to make this visit. Now, if I can only sleep at night, I shall be grateful. Of late, I have not been sleeping well. The night before last I got only about two hours’ sleep. Last night I did better, but did not sleep for as many hours as I should. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 9)
I read the fourth chapter of Daniel with intense interest. It speaks of the second warning given to the king. In interpreting the dream that Nebuchadnezzar had dreamed, Daniel said: (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 10)
“It is thou, O king, that art grown and become strong; for thy greatness is grown, and reacheth unto heaven, and thy dominion unto the ends of the earth. And whereas the king saw a Watcher and an Holy One coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew down the tree, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth; even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 11)
“This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the Most High, which is come upon my lord the king: That they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make thee eat grass as oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will. And whereas they commanded to leave the stump of the tree roots, thy kingdom shall be sure unto thee, after that thou shalt have known that the heavens do rule. Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquility.” [Verses 22-27.] (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 12)
Nebuchadnezzar was given a probation of twelve months, but he did not heed the warning. As he walked in the palace of the kingdom of Babylon, he spoke in pride, saying: (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 13)
“Is not this great Babylon, that I have built, for the house of the kingdom, by the might of my power, and for the honor of my majesty? While the word was in the king’s mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken: Thy kingdom is departed from thee. And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field; they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever He will. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 14)
“The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar; and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles’ feathers and his nails like birds’ claws.” [Verses 30-33.] (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 15)
At the end of the days his reason returned unto him, and “he blessed the Most High.” The record says: (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 16)
“I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and honor Him that liveth forever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation; and all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; and He doeth according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of earth; and none can stay His hand, or say unto Him, What doest Thou? At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, my honor and brightness returned unto me; and my counselors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me. (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 17)
“Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and His ways judgment; and those that walk in pride He is able to abase.” [Verses 34-37.] (25LtMs, Lt 126, 1910, 18)
Lt 127, 1910
White, W. C.
St. Helena, California
November 22, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 32; 10MR 313.
Elder W. C. White
Dear Son W. C. White:
I have been occupied diligently in preparing matter for my book begun so long ago. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 1)
I was very much pleased to receive your letter, for you seem to be far away. I would be pleased to be with you, but this cannot be. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 2)
Sabbath before last I spoke in the meeting in sanitarium. I am glad to be able to speak one hour. Much pleasure was expressed by many that were in the chapel. I had spoken the Sabbath before in the school chapel in the mountains. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 3)
Maggie is doing her part excellently well. She enters into the spirit of the work as earnestly, yea more than when with us in Australia and in St. Helena. She seems so glad to be engaged in the (work again.) (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 4)
We are all very interestedly busy. I receive some letters which I have to answer. An excellent letter from Elder Butler is not answered, and another from Elder Daniells is unanswered. But I appreciate these letters and will answer them. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 5)
I would be pleased to meet you all. I have now nearly reached my eighty-third birthday. I would be very much pleased to meet Mabel and her husband, and visit with them, and have the pleasure of being in your meetings. I suppose I shall never travel so far again. I shall, if possible, attend some meetings in Portland, Maine, and Boston if the Lord gives me strength and clearness of mind, but I do not know as I shall care to travel very much. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 6)
I greatly desire to finish the book that has been lying waiting for my completion of it. Should I go to Portland, I should consider it a great advantage to spend some time in Melrose and speak to them in Boston. But I do not wish to be in any place where I could not accomplish some good. I am perfectly pleased with my home; but if I could speak words that would be a blessing to draw souls to accept of the truth, after that I could lay off my armor if it is the Lord’s will. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 7)
I have much written in the diary I have kept in all my journeys that should come before the people if essential, even if I did not write another line. I want that which is deemed worthy to appear, for the Lord has given me much light that I want the people to have; for there is instruction that the Lord has given me for His people. It is light that they should have, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. This is now to come before the people, because it has been given to correct specious errors and to specify what is truth. The Lord has revealed many things pointing out the truth, thus saying, “This is the way, walk ye in it.” [Isaiah 30:21.] (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 8)
It is a great and grand thing to have an eye single to the glory of God. Self must not come into our serving. We need now to present the truth in its important bearings. We are to walk every step understandingly. Blessed light from the Word of God is to come to the people. No new and strange thing is to be introduced now, unless it is proved by much diligent investigation and most earnest prayer. Blessed light from the Word of God is ours to receive and in assurance give to people. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 9)
Last night after writing the words on the first three pages, I received my treatment from Helen, an excellent bath. I retired, but could not sleep. Many scenes passed before me in the first part of the first hour of my sleep, then came wakefulness, most of the night. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 10)
“I will not fail nor be discouraged” is the language of my soul. Our only safety is to walk in the light as Christ is in the light. When I read the word of Him who is Truth and Righteousness, I do not question the sure result. I feel safe. My feet stand in a sure path, for Christ is our Leader. He came to our world to show us the course we must pursue to have His light, His joy and crown of rejoicing. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 11)
What a humble life He has left us to practice. Blessed light Christ has given us in His own practical life that He has left for us to allow in all humility, marking His every step. We must bring true humility into all our working out of the Lord’s plans. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 12)
A. T. Jones is improving his ability in getting into our church and presenting his false statements of the work I am required to do, past, present and future. We may have to unfold some of his deceptive work, but we will understand more fully what lines of falsehoods he is giving the people. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 13)
We have had but a few light rains in the night. I think we may have some rain today. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 14)
We must put our entire trust in the Lord Jesus Christ who was to stand in our world as the Lord’s representative of what is truth and what is falsehood. But our work is to cleave to the words of truth plainly stated in the Old and New Testaments. One thing, we are distinctly to vindicate the truth as it is represented in words and character by our Lord Jesus Christ as the Father’s representative. I have written this except this last page by lamplight. (25LtMs, Lt 127, 1910, 15)
Lt 128, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
St. Helena, California
November 23, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Elder A. G. Daniells
Dear Brother Daniells:
I have learned through W. C. White that you have been very sick. I am more sorry than I can express to hear of your illness. I had written you some things in the line of cautions regarding your health, but before I sent them, the word came that you were sick. I had feared this, because the representation was given me that unless you had excellent counsellors—faithful, experienced men—as soon as you began the work in the cities, you would be borne down as a cart beneath sheaves. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 1)
Unless sanctified judgment is used by those who take up the work that the Lord has pointed out must be done in the neglected cities, the magnitude of the work will be revealed in so marked a manner that the ones taking up the work in earnest will be overwhelmed. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 2)
There is a great work now to be done in our cities, and where are the workers to unite in carrying the burden, so that the life of no one worker shall be endangered? This work has for years been left undone. Had it been taken up energetically twenty years ago, and carried forward with earnestness and simplicity, many more able men and women would have been converted to the truth, and would have entered the work, using all their capabilities for its advancement. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 3)
Will we now learn wisdom, and make such arrangements regarding the work to be done, that the lives of the workers shall not be endangered? There is so great an amount of work to be done that the help of every worker will be needed. Plans must be laid that will guard against a few laborers carrying several lines of work. The workers must share equally in the responsibilities, depending in faith upon the Lord. All who have enlisted in the Lord’s army must consider the needs of the sadly neglected cities and do all in their power to advance the work. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 4)
I present this before our people whenever I speak in our churches. Lessons after the Lord’s order must now be given. We must seek earnestly for the knowledge that will enable us to carry on successfully this most solemn and essential work. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 5)
We need strong, healthy workers placed in their order to do a special work to save souls. Young men are needed who show a firm adherence to principle—men who can see and understand how to meet the present emergencies. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 6)
As we study the lessons taught of the experience of Daniel and his fellows, we are to learn to a purpose. Were these men losers by their firm adherence to the principle of self-denial? “Not at all,” is the hearty response. In His dealings with His servants, the Lord was working out lessons of value for us who are living in the present stage of this world’s history. Will our young men diligently study these lessons, from the highest standpoint? It is the duty of every gospel minister to proclaim the thrilling truths appropriate for this time. We must be as Daniel and his fellows—light-bearers, gathering rays of light from heaven and shedding them abroad on those around us. The Lord calls for workers now. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 7)
God and Christ are full of resources. If we will follow the Lord’s directions, godliness will be shown in the plans laid to work our cities. In these large centers, let our ministers bear a message strong and clear to those who do not understand the truth. Let them patiently educate families. Let there come forth from unfeigned lips the word of warning, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.] (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 8)
I am instructed that our plans are to enlarge and expand. Stand by your post. Faithfully discharge every known duty, large and small. Then trust in God, who sees and knows all things. As you read the Word of God, open your heart to its lessons. Enlarge your plans as you are directed by the Holy Spirit. Do not crowd in too many things at once, but move as the Lord directs, always acknowledging the grace of God. Speak of the knowledge received, and do not neglect prayer. “Ask, and it shall be given unto you; seek, and ye shall find.” [Matthew 7:7.] (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 9)
What special part can be taken by our institutions? What can our sanitariums and schools do to assist in this work? As we receive the grace that is rich and free, the Lord Jesus will certainly come into our schools and will be a helper to every student and teacher. He will enter our assemblies and our churches. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 10)
My brethren and sisters, are you doing God’s work intelligently, reasoning from cause to effect? “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” [Matthew 6:33], and the result will be that your efforts to save sinners from the error of their ways will increase. This work must be done in hope and faith and a knowledge of the truth. Souls cost the life of the only begotten Son of God, and the first duty that we have to perform is the setting of a right example to others. We have been bought with a price, and we are to do our God-given work faithfully. “What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.] (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 11)
Are we looking for our Lord to come in the clouds of heaven? Satan is working with intensity of effort to gather his forces in large numbers to resist Christ’s claims. “Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture. Therefore, thus saith the Lord God of Israel against the pastures that feed My people, (claim to feed them): Ye have scattered My flock, and driven them away” [Jeremiah 23:1, 2], filling their minds with erroneous theories. This work has been done in the past, and at the present time there are men whom we dare not place in positions of responsibility, because they do not carry the work forward wisely. They place great confidence in their own judgment. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 12)
We must educate, educate, educate, that it is not by might, nor by power, “but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts,” that God’s work is to be accomplished. [Zechariah 4:6.] One thing it becomes us all to learn—that none but a true Christian can be a finished gentleman. The Lord Jesus Christ is our example of a true Christian gentleman. To be such a gentleman means much more than we realize. We are preparing for the heavenly mansions, for a city whose builder and maker is God. We are, I am instructed to say, to be partakers of the divine nature. When we yield ourselves to be fully on the Lord’s side, the Christianity in the heart will work out in true courtesy and sanctified actions. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 13)
We have much to learn of Christ. When we seek first to know Him, whom to know aright is life eternal, we shall make advancement in the Christian life. The charge is given us, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Shall we accept the responsibility? We are not half awake. We are in need of clear, spiritual eyesight. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 14)
“Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.” [2 Corinthians 8:9.] Our Redeemer came to this world in poverty. For our sake, the Son of the infinite God became poor. Poverty is no disgrace. Christ, who was rich in power and the Holy Spirit, laid aside His riches in order to come to this world as a poor man and work out salvation for us. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 15)
Lucifer, who was determined to have Christ’s place in the heavenly courts, lost his glorious position and was exiled to this world. In contrast to this, Christ laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and came to this world to stand at the head of humanity as man’s Saviour. He transferred His home to the world occupied by fallen human beings, but His character and His relationship to God were unchanged. He came to this world to stand the test that Satan refused to stand. He took humanity with all its varied humiliations, and He endured all the temptations wherewith man is beset and came forth with His excellence of character unmarred by the slightest taint of sin. Not once did He swerve from His allegiance to His Father. He was tempted in all points like as we are, yet without sin. Such is our Mediator, who in this world lived a pattern-life for every soul. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 16)
Many glory in their property, in their fine houses. When these men are tested, as they will be, how will they stand the test? There are many who frame perils for themselves, making their own temptations, imperilling their lives in various experiments, forgetful of God, the Giver of life. (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 17)
Christ gave His life to redeem all who will repent. “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely. And this is His name whereby He shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.” [Jeremiah 23:5, 6.] (25LtMs, Lt 128, 1910, 18)
Lt 130, 1910
Butler, G. I.
St. Helena, California
November 23, 1910
This letter is published in entirety in 1888 1811-1812.
Dear Brother Butler:
I have received and read your letter. It was full of interest to me, and I was much pleased to hear from you. I appreciated your letter very much and have been waiting for an opportunity to respond to it. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 1)
I am glad to tell you that my strength is returning to me. I am working as hard as I dare. The enemy is trying to make me feel discouraged because I cannot give myself to continuous travel and speaking. But my courage is good. I shall endeavor to walk cautiously and to do less than I have done in the past. In looking over my writings, I see much important matter that the people need just now. I am determined to place my trust in the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 2)
On the twenty-sixth of this month I shall be eighty-three years old. A week ago I spoke in the sanitarium chapel. The chapel has been enlarged and will seat many more than it formerly did. I spoke for an hour. The house was full of interested listeners, and I was much blessed in speaking. A week before, I spoke at the Pacific Union College. This is the school property that was recently purchased by our people. We are well satisfied with this property. The Lord gave me His Holy Spirit, and I had freedom in speaking to those assembled. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 3)
I have not lost faith in you, Elder Butler. I greatly desire that the old soldiers, grown grey in the Master’s service, shall continue to bear their testimony right to the point, that those younger in the faith may understand that the messages which the Lord gave us in the past are very important at this stage of the earth’s history. Our past experience has not lost one jot of its force. I thank the Lord for every jot and tittle of the sacred Word. I would not draw back from the hard parts of our experience. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 4)
You must not work beyond your strength. I suppose that in the future our experience will be varied; but I think that you and I, in growing old in the service of Christ, in doing His will, are obtaining an experience of the highest value and most intense interest. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 5)
The judgments of the Lord are in the land. We must work with whole-hearted fidelity, putting the whole being into what we do to help others move forward and upward. Let us press the battle to the gates. Let us be ever ready to speak words of encouragement to the halting and the weary. We can walk safely only as we walk with Christ. Let nothing dampen your courage. Help those with whom you come in contact to work with fidelity. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 6)
I hope that in the future I may meet you at some of our gatherings. You and I are among the oldest of those living who have long kept the faith. If we should not live to see our Lord’s appearing, yet, having done our appointed work, we shall lay off our armor with sanctified dignity. Let us do our best, and let us do it in faith and hope. My heart is filled with gratitude to the Lord for sparing my life for so long. My right hand can still trace subjects of Bible truth without trembling. Tell all that Sister White’s hand still traces words of instruction for the people. I am completing another book of Old Testament history. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 7)
May the Lord bless you and keep you in hope and courage. (25LtMs, Lt 130, 1910, 8)
Lt 132, 1910
Cottrell, H. W.
St. Helena, California
December 1, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Elder H. W. Cottrell
My dear Brother:
I have not had any special conversation with you recently, but for a long time I have had a most earnest desire that you might see and understand clearly all things relating to your religious experience. The Lord has given me a message for you. If you believe a certain thing to be true, it is almost impossible for you to change your opinion, even though you may be wrong in your belief. You are inclined to regard your own judgment as infallible; but you have certainly been mistaken in some of the decisions and opinions on which you have taken a very strong stand. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 1)
If you take the position that when you have once made a decision, you are never to alter this decision, you are on the same ground as Lucifer was when he rebelled against God. He held his ideas of commercialism as an exalted, unchangeable theory. Neither you nor any other man should think that human opinions should be immortalized. In taking the stand that you will never change your views, you place yourself on dangerous ground. While you hold the position that your views are unchangeable, you cannot be helped; for you place yourself where you are not willing to receive counsel and admonition from your brethren. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 2)
During the Pacific Union Conference held at Mountain View last January, we met with stern opposition to the leadings of the Holy Spirit. I was given a message for you and for all who were so confident of the value of their judgment that they felt that they must never give up the sentiments they had once entertained, or retreat from a position that they had once taken. I was bidden to tell you that for you to take the position that your ideas are never to be given up is to pattern after Lucifer. The ideas that he wove into his experience in regard to entering into commercialism he refused to give up or exchange. He refused to harmonize with Christ and was determined to carry out his plans. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 3)
When God would not concede to Satan’s claim to a place above His only begotten Son, Satan rebelled. There was war in heaven, and he was cast out. He pressed his claim to be placed above Christ, but the warfare resulted in his losing his position in the heavenly courts. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 4)
Satan came to this world and determined to carry out here the idea that men could be equal with God. He led men to doubt the Word of God and to distrust His goodness. Because God is a God of justice and terrible majesty, Satan caused them to look upon Him as severe and unforgiving. Thus he drew men to join him in rebellion against God, and the night of woe settled down upon the world. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 5)
Christ volunteered to come to our world and give to men the true light. God gave His only begotten Son to the world to reveal the Father as supreme in heaven and in earth. Christ came in the form of humanity, to meet and overcome the enemy and his devices. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 6)
All that Christ undertook to do in coming to this world He accomplished. From the manger to the cross, He lived a sinless life, never once swerving from His allegiance to His Father. Thus he proved Satan’s assertion that the law of God could not be kept, to be a falsehood. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 7)
But those to whom the Saviour came would not receive Him. He was taken by wicked hands and humiliated, mocked, and condemned. Satan was at the head of those who reviled and crucified Him. On the cross of Calvary, the Redeemer of mankind suffered a cruel death of shame, and by His death He proved the falsity of Satan’s charges against God and vindicated God in the sight of the angels in heaven as One willing to make in man’s behalf the greatest sacrifice that could be made. Angels witnessed the cruel deeds of men as they put Christ to open shame, demanding His death and calling for the release of Barabbas, a robber and murderer. To the maddened throng Pilate declared that he found no fault in Christ, yet he delivered Him into their hands, and they crucified Him. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 8)
Satan led the cruel mob in its abuse of the Saviour. It was his purpose to provoke Him to retaliation if possible, or to drive Him to perform a miracle to release Himself, and thus break up the plan of salvation. One stain upon His human life, one failure of His humanity to endure the terrible test, and the Lamb of God would have been an imperfect offering and the redemption of man a failure. But He who by a command could bring the heavenly hosts to His aid, He who could have driven that mob in terror from His sight by the flashing forth of His divine majesty submitted with perfect calmness to the coarsest insults and outrage. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 9)
“And when they were come to the place which is called Calvary, there they crucified Him.” [Luke 23:33.] (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 10)
The enemies of Jesus vented their rage upon Him as He hung upon the cross. Priests, rulers, and scribes joined with the mob in mocking the dying Saviour. At the baptism and at the transfiguration, the voice of God had been heard proclaiming Christ as His Son. Again, just before Christ’s betrayal, the Father had spoken, witnessing to His divinity. But now the voice from heaven was silent. No testimony in Christ’s favor was heard. Alone He suffered abuse and mockery from wicked men. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 11)
“If Thou be the Son of God,” they said, “come down from the cross.” [Matthew 27:40.] “Let Him save Himself, if He be Christ, the chosen of God.” [Luke 23:35.] In the wilderness of temptation, Satan had declared, “If Thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.” “If Thou be the Son of God, cast Thyself down” from the pinnacle of the temple. [Matthew 4:3, 6.] And Satan with his angels, in human form, was present at the cross. The archfiend and his hosts were co-operating with the priests and rulers. The teachers of the people had stimulated the ignorant mob to pronounce judgment against One upon whom many of them had never looked until urged to bear testimony against Him. Priests, rulers, Pharisees, and the hardened rabble were confederated together in a satanic frenzy. Religious rulers united with Satan and his angels. They were doing his bidding. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 12)
Jesus, suffering and dying, heard every word as the priests declared, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” [Mark 15:31, 32.] Christ could have come down from the cross, but it is because He would not save Himself that the sinner has hope of pardon and favor with God. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 13)
Christ rose from the dead and appeared unto His disciples “as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen Him after He was risen. And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth, and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe: In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues, they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 14)
“So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, He was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.” [Mark 16:14-20.] (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 15)
Brother Cottrell, I wish I could present the subject to you in such a way that it will be the convincing evidence that I wish it to be. You have received and entertained ideas that have been distinctly presented to me as wrong. You feel that you must hold and vindicate the opinions that you have formed. But if you continue to build your faith on this line of reasoning, you will find yourself in a most dangerous position. Some of the ideas to which you hold so firmly are not true. Sentiments that you have held as vital, soul-saving sentiments, are not saving. I entreat you to give careful consideration to this subject. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 16)
I am instructed to present these things to you that you may have a right understanding. Do not think that you are to hold your ideas as unchangeable. This is false reasoning and places you where we cannot give you the encouragement you desire. I want you to see things in a correct light. Do not regard your own opinions as infallible. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 17)
I am entrusted with this message for you: Connect with your brethren, even at the cost of yielding to their judgment in some matters. Break away from the sentiments which you have cherished, and unite with your brethren. Your soul is precious, and therefore I write to you. The time has come when you must give up some of the ideas that you have held tenaciously; for they will not stand the test of truth. I have nothing to specify, but am to tell you that the heavenly beings are saying, “Unify, unify, come into line.” (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 18)
If you have envy, suspicion, or jealousy in your heart, you have a work to do. Confess your sins, come into harmony with your brethren. Speak well of them. Throw out no unfavorable hints, no suggestions that will awaken distrust in the minds of others. Guard their reputation as sacredly as you would have them guard yours; love them as you would be loved of Jesus. Work for their interests instead of seeking to tear them down, that you may build up self on their ruin. Satan is an accuser of the brethren, and he loves to have you help him. But disappoint him. Do not let him triumph over you. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 19)
A great work is to be done, and not a discordant note is to be heard in our ranks. There is to be unity among those giving the message for this time. Hundreds and thousands of unbelieving families are to be visited. Thus the work in Portland, Maine, was carried forward during the 1844 movement. Meetings were held in the daytime and in the evening. The surrounding towns and villages were warned. On every side doors were thrown open, and many who heard became interested. This was a solemn time, and a time of earnest effort. Many hearts responded to the call of God. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 20)
We must be careful how we treat the messages of truth. In the future men and women will be convicted and converted. A much greater solemnity is to be brought into our meetings. The Lord is calling His people to service. He is calling upon them to unify; and as you are forced to great decisions, I ask you, Elder Cottrell, to unite with us in carrying the work strongly forward. Now is your opportunity—not to frame opinions that hold you back to question—but to harmonize and move forward with God’s cause. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 21)
I cannot write on this subject without feeling moved. For several nights I have had but little sleep. I felt that I must write this letter to you, Elder Cottrell. I hope that it will be understood. In the past you have stood nobly by Elder Haskell. My message for you now is, Come into line, and bear the message of truth for this time. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 22)
Your sister in Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 132, 1910, 23)
Lt 134, 1910
White, W. C.
St. Helena, California
December 1, 1910
Previously unpublished.
My dear son Willie:
I received your very interesting letter this morning. I thank you for writing so fully. Your letter was very interesting. I am always pleased to hear from you. I do not want to say, Cease to write to me; but I am afraid that you are taking too much upon yourself. Considering how many places you visit, we are surprised that you are able to accomplish so much writing. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 1)
I have received a nice letter from Addie. If Addie and May will, through the merits of Jesus Christ, overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony, I shall feel so grateful that I have had it in my power to do for them what I have done. I give May free access to my home. She is welcome to come as often as she chooses. I am glad that she is so near us. We do not have the privilege of meeting Addie so often, but I want them both to feel that I have as deep an interest in them and as great a care for them as if they were my own children. I want them both to have a set of my books. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 2)
Well, I am eighty-three years old, and yet my hand is as firm and steady as it was forty years ago. Never have I so greatly desired to stand before the people and bear my message as now, just now. But I must guard my strength. I must not be imprudent. I feel very anxious to complete the matter for the unfinished book on Old Testament history. I hope to finish the manuscripts on Esther as soon as possible. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 3)
The Lord desires His workers to branch out, not in self-confidence, but in faith, bearing a living testimony for truth and righteousness. Divine truth is to be received, appreciated, and sanctified to the good of all our people. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] We have no time to be idle, or to walk in a false show. The truth must be to each soul a living reality. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 4)
I have recently been writing some important matter. Elder Cottrell is in danger of considering that his opinions are infallible. He thinks that his ideas are given him by God, and that they are never to be given up. Here is his danger. There are some views that men should ever maintain, and there are other views, which, though they may think them right, are not of God and should be given up. The truth as it is in Jesus bears the impress of the Author of all truth and should ever be cherished. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 5)
Elder Cottrell needs to learn that some of the views that he holds are not of the class that are ever to be maintained. I am charged to give him the message that he needs to make a decided change in thinking that his ideas are never to be yielding up, even should his brethren look at things in a different light. We are nearing the great crisis, and I want Elder Cottrell to realize that the Holy Spirit, which Christ promised to His disciples, must be the guide of God’s people today. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 6)
Those who believe in Jesus are to act as Christ would act. No one or two or three or four men are to unite to accept certain ideas that they claim are binding upon them and all who believe. We are to understand the truth as it is in Jesus. There are many who have only a surface experience. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 7)
During the Union Conference held at Mountain View last January, light was given me. One night I suffered intensely. I seemed to be in conflict with satanic agencies. That night instruction was given me. The next morning I bore my testimony as to who should serve as president of the California Conference during the coming term. It was an important crisis, and I was forced to my feet to bear my testimony. I was bidden to say that Elder Haskell, in connection with his wife, being acquainted with the work, was in a position to serve intelligently for another term as president of the California Conference, and that Elder Irwin was to act as president of the Union Conference. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 8)
If Elder Haskell now feels that he has served his time, then another man must be found. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 9)
God is in earnest with us. In the past, strange things have taken place. There have been men who have worked counter to the working of God’s will because for years they have been led and controlled by a deceptive influence. I am bidden to give the warning that the Lord will not accept men unless they give evidence that they are obedient to the working of the Holy Spirit. Those who do not give evidence of genuine conversion should not be put into office. We are living amidst the perils of the last days. Men who suppose that they are competent to serve in office, yet who show that they have not been changed by the Holy Spirit, should not be placed in positions of responsibility. Should they be, a self-sufficient spirit would come in that would spoil the flock of God. There are those who show that they are not safe men to entrust with the guidance of God’s work. They cannot discern the high standard that His people should reach. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 10)
I write this now because I know that the men who have been revealing that they are not controlled by the Holy Spirit are not to be placed in office at the coming conference. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 11)
I have a representation to make: Israel stood at the brink of the Red Sea, perplexed. Before them were the deep waters of the Red Sea, its waves beating on the shore; behind them the chariots of Egypt, and on either side of them granite rocks. “And the Lord said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto Me. But lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thy hand over the sea, and divide it; and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea.” [Exodus 14:15, 16.] (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 12)
God is our God, and we may safely trust in Him. If we work intelligently, and not in a haphazard, unbelieving style, He will give us success. We have no reason to distrust God. (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 13)
“The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise Him; my father’s God, and I will exalt Him.... Who is like unto Thee, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like unto Thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders? ... Thou in Thy mercy hast led the people which Thou hast redeemed; Thou hast guided them in Thy strength to Thy holy habitation.” [Exodus 15:2-13.] (25LtMs, Lt 134, 1910, 14)
Lt 136, 1910
White, J. E.
St. Helena, California
November 26, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 2SM 397; 6Bio 338.
My dear son Edson:
For the past two nights I have risen at twelve o’clock. In the night season I am speaking to the people in my sleep. I hope that this wakefulness will soon pass away. (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 1)
So far we have been favored with very pleasant weather. It has not been cold, and I have only had a fire in my room two or three days until the past two or three days. Last Thursday and Friday some rain fell, but it was very gentle, with no wind. (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 2)
I was very glad to receive your letter, which came last Thursday. Recently I have been favored with excellent, cheerful letters from different ones. (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 3)
I am more thankful than I can express for the uplifting of the Spirit of the Lord, and for the strength that He gives me. Recently I spoke at the Pacific Union College and in the sanitarium chapel. On both occasions I had much freedom. But I dare not spend too much strength in public speaking, because I am trying to complete the manuscript for my unfinished book on Old Testament history. I have recently been able to do some important writing. May the Lord give me His grace and enable me to understand the work He would have me carry forward in His name. (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 4)
“Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion; for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of Thee, saith the Lord. And many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and shall be My people; and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the Lord of hosts hath sent Me unto thee. And the Lord shall inherit Judah His portion in the holy land, and shall choose Jerusalem again. Be silent, all flesh, before the Lord; for He is raised up out of His holy habitation.” [Zechariah 2:10-13.] (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 5)
“And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee. Is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel. And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him He said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with a change of raiment. And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and they clothed him with garments. And the Angel of the Lord stood by. And the Angel of the Lord protested unto Joshua, If thou wilt walk in My ways, and if thou wilt keep My charge, then thou shalt also judge My house, and shalt also keep My courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.” [Zechariah 3:1-7.] (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 6)
Nothing in this world is so dear to God as His church. With jealous care He guards those who seek Him. Nothing so offends God as for the servants of Satan to strive to rob His people of their rights. The Lord has not forsaken His people. Satan points to the mistakes that they have made and tries to make them believe that thus they have separated themselves from God. Evil angels seek in every way to discourage those who are striving for victory over sin. They hold up before them their past unworthiness and represent their case as hopeless. (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 7)
But we have an all-powerful Redeemer. Christ came from heaven in the guise of humanity to live the principles of righteousness in this world. He was endowed with power to minister to all who would accept Him as their Redeemer, to succor the repentant ones who were convinced of the sinfulness of sin. “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.” [Hebrews 4:15.] (25LtMs, Lt 136, 1910, 8)
Lt 138, 1910
Starr, Brother and Sister [G. B.]
St. Helena, California
December 12, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in TDG 355.
Dear Brother and Sister Starr:
I have received and read your letter, and I was relieved of a great burden by learning that you are at Melrose. I have received a letter from Dr. Kress, intimating that he has decided to remain at Washington. Your letter came the same day, saying that you are working in the Melrose Sanitarium, and also doing some work in Boston. In no place could you find a center for your work equal to Melrose. If I could be free from my writing, and could possibly leave home to unite with you in the work there, I should make no delay in doing so. But I have an unfinished book on Old Testament history, for which I am trying to complete the manuscript. If the Lord spares my life, and gives me strength, I shall certainly make another visit to Boston and Portland. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 1)
We have had a very pleasant fall. In this particular locality, we have little severe cold. Today has been a most beautiful, cloudless day. For several days I have had no fire either in my bedroom or in my writing room. Early this morning I lit a fire in my fireplace, and burned a few chunks, but have had no fire since. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 2)
I long to be engaged in earnest work in the field, and I should most assuredly be actively engaged in public labor did I not have much important writing to do. My heart is filled with a most earnest desire to place the truth before all who can be reached. I am writing important matter for publication. But I have to move very carefully, lest I place myself where I cannot write at all. I may not live long, but I am not suffering as much healthwise as I might expect. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 3)
Our only safely is to be wholly on the Lord’s side. We are not to be presumptuous or ignorant in regard to cause and effect. I want you and your wife to remember that you are standing in a most responsible position, and that every phase of your work is to bear the stamp of God’s approval. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 4)
Satan is untiring in his efforts to make the truth of no effect. Consider how it has been since that terrible judgment came upon San Francisco. Instead of the people being called to repentance and humility, and to a turning away from their sins, crime has remarkably increased. Violence and iniquity of every description have become widespread, and every now and then some new species of fraud is exposed. Let us give these things our careful consideration. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 5)
The Lord’s philosophy, plainly outlined in His Word, is to be our rule of life. The entire being is to be under the control of the One who knows the end from the beginning. The Bible, and the Bible only, is to be our guide. We must follow and obey the life-giving principles of heaven, not only our inclinations. The wisdom and the power of God, working upon the receptive heart, brings mind and character into harmony with the laws and rules of heaven. Individually we must have the guidance of the Holy Spirit, in order to communicate to the world the great facts of truth and righteousness. Let us open the windows of the mind heavenward. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 6)
We are bidden to sound an alarm to the people. The watchmen must not fail now. They must watch unto prayer, that they may have a clear perception of their obligation to Him who, though the only begotten Son of God, came to our world to lead men and women away from the guidance of Satan. We are to instruct and guide souls to look to Christ’s example, to realize their obligation to Him whose they are by creation and by redemption. He is the owner of every man and woman and child who comes into the world. This He became by paying the redemption price. If fallen human beings will consent to become sons and daughters of God in willing obedience, they will become one with Christ. The Saviour has bought them by giving His life to pay the penalty of sin. I am instructed to say that those who are truly converted will reveal the saving grace of Christ by laboring for the souls blinded by Satan. In their own lives God’s workers are to show forth the power of truth and righteousness. The world is soon to meet the great Lawgiver over His broken law. Those only can hope for pardon who turn from transgression to obedience. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 7)
We are to raise the banner on which is inscribed, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] This is the great issue. Let it not be put out of sight. We must strive to arouse church members and those who make no profession to see and obey the claims of the law of heaven. We are to magnify this law and make it honorable. We are to arouse those who are sunk in spiritual slumber. This is no time to put out of sight the grand issue for this important time. God charges His people to magnify the law and make it honorable. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 8)
When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy, then the Sabbath was given to our world, that man might remember that in six days the Lord made the world, and that He rested on the seventh day, sanctifying it, and setting it apart as holy. God gave us the Sabbath as a memorial of creation, a means by which we are to call Him to mind as the Creator of the world. He is the true and living God—our Teacher, our Redeemer, our Saviour. (25LtMs, Lt 138, 1910, 9)
Lt 140, 1910
Lindsay, Harmon
St. Helena, California
September 20, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Mr. Harmon Lindsay
Paradise Valley Sanitarium, San Diego
Dear Brother Lindsay:
Thank you for your letter. We must move very carefully in regard to the blending of the work of men nurses and women nurses, in order that no unwise course be taken. I have seen the harmful results of men acting as nurses for women and women acting as nurses for men. (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 1)
Standing as you do in a position of influence, you must be guarded; for you are in danger of not preserving that noble dignity that should ever be your safeguard. (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 2)
“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little one in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 3)
“Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe unto that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out and cast it from thee; it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 4)
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? if a man have a hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” [Matthew 18:1-14.] (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 5)
Read that entire chapter, and practice the lesson of Christ. Let all our teachers heed this lesson, given by the greatest teacher the world has ever known, the One who gave His life that He might rescue every one who will seek Him with the whole heart. One thing is certain: Our people will have to be converted, or they will never be laborers together with God. (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 6)
“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he shall neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.” [Verses 15-20.] (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 7)
In the last mail a letter came to me, of which I will send you a copy, that you may have the privilege of reading it. I feel intensely over such letters as these. (25LtMs, Lt 140, 1910, 8)
Lt 142, 1910
Haskell, Brother and Sister
St. Helena, California
March 4, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear Brother and Sister Haskell:
I could sleep but little last night and felt used up in the morning. (25LtMs, Lt 142, 1910, 1)
I was so thankful, the Lord Jesus in the night season seemed close to me, and said, in most impressive 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. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” [John 14:1-4.] (25LtMs, Lt 142, 1910, 2)
Oh, what comfort came to my soul! (25LtMs, Lt 142, 1910, 3)
Now I was instructed: We will be diligent, watch to see what words we speak; and if the enemy can make us discouraged, to utter one syllable of harshness or discouragement, Satan’s object is gained. Now let no reference be made to the position of Elder Daniells or Elder Prescott’s position, but let us be uplifted in the Lord. Let us not take time to separate the words of these men, but plan in regard to our work, and encourage the workers, and talk cheerfully; for the blessing of the Lord will be with us, if we do this. (25LtMs, Lt 142, 1910, 4)
I will write more fully today of some things the Lord has instructed me. Nothing would please the enemy more than to have us bear a gloomy testimony. Uplift the Saviour, talk courage, talk faith, and show forth the praises of God. Will write again today. (25LtMs, Lt 142, 1910, 5)
Lt 144, 1910
Bree, Maggie Hare
St. Helena, California
January 13, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear Sister Maggie:
I have not troubled you with any of my letters, but I have the same respect for you that I have ever had. I do not recollect that we have ever had any serious misunderstanding. We appreciated your labors very much. And now I write you to ask you, Will you help me again? There is plenty of work your husband can do right on the place we occupied when you were here; and we would welcome yourself and your husband. I do not know but that I do as much public labor as I have ever done. Five months of the past year I was away from my home, traveling constantly, and speaking in important meetings. God gave me strength; and I praise the Lord that I am able to build my own log fire and go up and down stairs as readily as any one of my family. (25LtMs, Lt 144, 1910, 1)
Now we will welcome you and your husband and child. The way we are situated is just exactly as it was when you were here. You could arrange your home to suit your own wishes. We give you the most hearty welcome, and your husband and child. Minnie was sent for to help care for her sister, who is insane. We feel very sorry for the family who are thus afflicted. But we would have kept Minnie if she had not felt she must go, and we dared not say, Nay. Faithfully she prepared my copy, and all that [she] could do; and I would, when handling this copy, say in mind and sometimes express aloud, I thank Maggie Hare for her faithful arrangement of my many writings. We will have all you can do, and we will not begrudge you the attention you give to your family; for there are places right on these premises that you can find all you will be pleased to handle. Your time you must judge the safest for you to come. But be assured we have missed you very much. I am writing this by lamplight, and I repeat my hearty invitation as soon as you deem the most safely to come on the water. (25LtMs, Lt 144, 1910, 2)
The Lord has wonderfully preserved my health of mind and health of body. Good is the Lord, and greatly to be praised. My mind has been clear, and I wish you could have been present at our Washington, Takoma, camp-meeting. It was a wonderful meeting for me and for the people. The Lord imbued me with His Spirit and with His power all through that meeting. The power of God gave me the testimony to come to the people in a most remarkable manner. Well, praise the name of the Lord! I have had evidence the Lord will sustain me. I want to meet you and your family, your husband and your child. Now I must say, Good-night, and retire. (25LtMs, Lt 144, 1910, 3)
Lt 146, 1910
White, W. C.
Loma Linda, California
April 26, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 6Bio 296.
My son Willie C. White:
I will give you a little of my recent experience. Brother Andross informed me that the brethren had consulted together and decided to hire a hall in Los Angeles, where I could speak to the people who would consider it a privilege to hear me; for it would not be possible for them to crowd into the small meetinghouse. So they decided to hire a hall, paying six or eight dollars for it. I consented to go, but when the time came [I] was so afflicted that I deemed it presumption to leave Loma Linda. On Friday, when it was uncertain whether, even if I should make the journey, I should be unable to speak, the word was sent to Elder Andross. He was much disappointed, for the hall had been hired with the understanding that I would speak. I said to Sara, Send word that if it is at all reasonable, I will come. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 1)
On Friday morning I went to Los Angeles. We were met at the station by Elder Andross and a Brother Hemphill who took us to Glendale in his automobile. The next morning he called for us and took us to the hall. We found a crowd already gathered. The hall was filled, and in the room below and on the stairs were two hundred people who could not find room. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 2)
Elder Andross was quick to determine what must be done. He asked those present if they would be willing to pay for a larger hall, so that all who had come might have a chance to hear. The people manifested their willingness to do this, and arrangements were made to secure the Simpson Auditorium. So the large crowd of people flocked to that hall, which was a few blocks away. The change was made with as little confusion as possible, for it was the Sabbath day. And we felt that the emergency which made a change from the smaller hall to the larger one necessary made an impression upon the people of Los Angeles City. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 3)
Soon all were comfortably seated, the first floor and the gallery both being filled. There were about fifteen hundred persons present. A collection was taken up to pay for both the halls, and this amounted to a little more than one hundred dollars. The hall rent was about forty-five dollars; so the expense on both halls was paid, and there was some means left over. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 4)
There was no confusion in the halls or in making the transfer. It took us some time to make the move; but all were accommodated, and all could hear. We felt that the whole circumstance was in our favor. The large number in the streets waiting for the securing of a larger hall made its impression upon minds. We felt that more meetings should be held in the largest halls we can secure. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 5)
The Lord gave me voice and clearness of mind as I spoke from the fourth chapter of Deuteronomy with portions from the fifth, sixth, and seventh chapters. The congregation was very attentive. I spoke a little more than an hour, and all listened with the greatest respect. The Lord gave me the freedom of His Holy Spirit, and many in the audience were deeply affected. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 6)
I have been instructed that our cities have been neglected, which is not pleasing to the Lord. This representation in the city of Los Angeles should make its impression upon our own people. The eagerness to hear on the part of these people shows us that we need to make preparation so that all may have an opportunity to hear the present truth. Let us do our best in the future to give the people this opportunity. This they need, and it is something they should have. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 7)
The work did go forward in this line when Elder Simpson labored in Los Angeles. Thousands heard the Word of the Lord. Camp-meetings of deep interest were held, and many souls were converted to the truth. While these meetings were held, ministers and their wives, with other workers, united in the effort. The work was carried forward in an intelligent manner. Cooking schools were held to educate the people how to prepare simple, healthful food. The expense connected with the work was one reason why these activities were to some extent given up. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 8)
It has been presented to me for years that a large work is to be done in our cities. The Lord calls for men of humble, sanctified hearts, and women consecrated to God’s service, to labor in every way possible for the salvation of souls. In every village, in every town, in every city, in the highways and the hedges is this last note of warning to be given to prepare a people to stand faithful to the obligations resting upon them. Under the labors of Elder Simpson and his fellow workers, our people met with success. The Lord would have this work revived and the people in our cities warned. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 9)
When the camp-meetings are in session, we must bear in mind that every converted man and woman should work as Christ worked. Doctrines should be investigated, and there should be a work of preparation done among our own people. There have been strange hindrances brought in by men and women who need to be converted daily. Let the meetings be carried on earnestly; and do not leave the work half completed. It may be that by the faithful effort of some individual, light will be brought to the sinful and unbelieving. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 10)
Through His faithful children God will impart rich blessings to all who will receive them. Through the reception of truth and the exercise of faith in Him, the heavenly Father will impart His rich grace, bringing salvation to His people and giving them light in unexpected ways to give to the world. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 11)
The Lord would have His light to shine upon all the world. Many of our people place their light under a bushel, and corrupt practices are the result. Christ would have every soul take his light from under the bushel and let it shine forth to the world. And the Lord Jesus purposes to give to many now in darkness opportunity to diffuse the light of truth. They are to become acquainted with (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 12)
Him through His church. His people, He declares, are to be the means of restoring in their fellow men the moral image of God. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 13)
When I bade good-bye to the brother who had taken us in his automobile many miles to and from the meetings, I said to him, “For your kindness to me I would like to present you with some of my books.” He replied, “O if you only knew what a blessing is coming to me in doing this for you. Through association with God’s people and His work, the image of God is being restored to me.” (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 14)
I thank the Lord that I did not yield to the temptation that I was too sick to speak in Los Angeles. A blessing has reached many souls through this effort, and I thank the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 146, 1910, 15)
Lt 148, 1910
Magan, P. T.
St. Helena, California
October 9, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Dear Brother Magan:
I am drawn out to write to you. I feel so thankful that I am now being permitted to hear of a work being done, which, before we began to build up the work in Nashville, I was encouraged to believe might be accomplished. I wish to say to you and Brother Sutherland that you should seek to obtain a connection with various educational institutions in and near Nashville, that you may help the teachers, and they, you. You will find that you can agree with them upon many points of Bible truth, and they will be able to present to you many lines of work regarding which you may be in harmony with them. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 1)
Over and over again I have repeated the instruction that we must endeavor to become acquainted with the teachers, and with their work in these schools, in order that they may be impressed by the truths that we as a people can bear to them. If you work wisely, you may be given opportunity to address the students, and thus impart to them precious light. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 2)
Again and again I have spoken of this as a work that must be done, but there has been but little done thus far. It has been presented to me that there are places in Nashville where cautious efforts would open the way for the truth to be spoken to the saving of souls. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 3)
The Lord’s servants are to be lights in the world, speaking words through which the true light will shine forth. We are to consider that the commission given by Christ to His disciples is given also to us. We are to take advantage of every opportunity to give instruction in the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 4)
Paul’s charge to Timothy is very important today to those who are engaged in the Lord’s work. “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.” “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” [2 Timothy 4:2-5; 1:7.] (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 5)
The instruction given in the first chapter of Second Timothy shows us that we have a special work to do for those not of our faith: “Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner; but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, but now is made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought light and immortality to light through the gospel; whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.” [Verses 8-11.] (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 6)
The Lord designs that we shall lose no opportunities for teaching the truth. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 7)
“Hold fast the form of sound words which thou hast heard of me,” Paul continues, “in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.” [Verses 13, 14.] (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 8)
The Lord designs that in your present field of labor, where you have so favorable an opportunity, you will find openings to speak the Word of life. These opportunities you should in no case neglect. Improve every opportunity to let the light of sacred truth flash its convincing power into the minds of ministers, physicians, and teachers, and of others who know little of present truth. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 9)
In your connection with these institutions, remember that you are the Lord’s agencies, and that wherever you are living, you are to diffuse light by imparting truth. Let the truths of God’s Word be woven into all your speech. Let those with whom you associate see that you are men chosen by God to let the light penetrate the darkness of erroneous theories. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 10)
I have been surprised that some of our ministers should be content to hover over the churches, laboring for those who already know the truth, and leaving those ignorant of the truth still in the darkness of error. I have many times repeated the instruction given me regarding this, but our people let many opportunities slip by and fail to give the note of warning. They should remember that in every place, where there are people who do not know the truth, there will be opportunities to give the warning message. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 11)
Never allow depression to come upon you. Wherever you are, let your hearts be so filled with the thought of God’s goodness, and mercy, and love, that Satan will find no place by which to enter. Cultivate an appreciation of the goodness and love of God. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 12)
We all need a broader view of Christ, of the life that He lived while in our world. It was a life of constant ministry. Wherever He went, He sought to reach souls. His was a grand work. All who believe the Word of God are to follow in His footsteps. Even when traveling from place to place, the servant of Christ will be given words to speak for the encouragement and saving of souls. The angels are our helpers, and the Lord Jesus will make our words efficacious to the saving of souls. (25LtMs, Lt 148, 1910, 13)
Lt 150, 1910
White, W. C.
Loma Linda Sanitarium, Loma Linda, California
April 1, 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 6Bio 290, 295.
Dear Son Willie C. White:
I have not spoken to our people since I was at Los Angeles. I have been indisposed. I shall speak Sabbath in Loma Linda, or shall make the attempt. (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 1)
We are well situated with two rooms adjoining, excellently arranged, just vacated. Rode out twice. I have not been well, but I am now improving. Everything is being done to place me upon vantage ground. I hope to be prepared to speak to the Loma Linda congregation tomorrow, Sabbath. (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 2)
The workers are very busy in working to complete their meetinghouse. I have been obliged to keep quiet; have not written to any person but to respond to Sister Simpson. In a letter from Long Beach, a very urgent invitation came to make a long stay, and they will do everything possible for me. The poor woman needs help, and if in the future I can find time and strength I will make her a visit. But not to make a long visit, for I see so many places I desire to go, especially to Portland, Maine. This must be done, and I shall, if the Lord wills, speak to the people in Portland and other places in camp-meetings. Therefore I shall try to build up in physical strength. I now expect to speak on the morrow to the people in Loma Linda; then if the Lord blesses me with strength, to speak to the school at Fernando, as was outlined for me to do, then return to Los Angeles, and then on to San Diego, Paradise Valley. I have not been able to speak in this place as yet. (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 3)
I shall be pleased to have you unite with me in my labor in these new places. But you know I leave you free to go as the Lord directs you. All here are seemingly doing their best to finish the meetinghouse preparatory to the future meetings to be held here in Loma Linda, which the Lord has been pleased to put into our hands to manage to His name’s glory. Oh, that the Lord will work for us in this meeting to be held in this place, which is important! (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 4)
I am this morning improving healthwise and feel much encouraged. That severe taxation at Mountain View was a terrible ordeal to me—and also the speaking at Lodi, under the trying heat. All these things combined to cause me much suffering. And still I shall not excuse myself from the future meeting in Loma Linda, which is the most beautiful place I have ever seen and surrounded with the scenery most beautiful. Yet I am not able to walk out without becoming painfully wearied in a marked degree. (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 5)
I feel no particular anxiety in regard to my future life. Let my life be hid with Christ in God, and it is then well with my soul. It is nearly time for me to ride out. Oh, my son, be careful of your physical and spiritual health as well! (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 6)
In much Love, (Signed) Mother, Ellen G. White (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 7)
A few words more. Everything is being done for me that can be done. I wish to thank our friends in Washington for their care, and especially for the house we enjoyed through that interesting meeting. I wish to say we expect just as much favor will be given to all who shall come to Loma Linda. Yesterday the old steady horse of the sanitarium took us up the hill where there is so much to please our senses in the beautiful variety of flowers and trees of rare selection and beauty. It is simply indescribable. With the old steady horse that drew the carriage we had nothing to fear. I have not written one line home since I left. We want to see you, my son Willie. (25LtMs, Lt 150, 1910, 8)
Lt 151, 1910
White, W. C.
Loma Linda, California
[April] 1910
Portions of this letter are published in 6Bio 296-297.
Willie White
My Son:
Since receiving your last card I thought you could be employed in doing just as much good a portion of the time if you were with your Mother. How much better I should have felt if I were waited upon by my own son upon the stand, to speak to the fifteen hundred people assembled in Los Angeles. But I am fully decided that it is not the right thing to do, and it is because I felt that you were needed to give influence upon some subjects that I consented to have you go and labor, expecting you would rejoin me in a short time. Be assured I will have the whole prospect canvassed the next move you and I make. But I believe the Lord understands the situation. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 1)
I would not consent to your propositions another time. But I thought you could save some crisis in movements, and I believe you have done this; and I consider this was your object in your movement, but I have not felt reconciled to this thing from first to last. But while I live and you live, we must not separate thus again. The Lord understands the work, and He will plan it to His name’s glory. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 2)
When I saw that immense jamming into the first hall, I could not tell what to do. But the proposition was to secure another hall, higher priced; and I saw the movements of the people, fearing they should not get a seat. We should learn it was time to take our light from under the bushel and let it shine forth. Our cities have not half been worked, and we must give the note of warning nigh and also afar off. I saw so many who were crowding up to speak to me, but an automobile was waiting for me, and I was taken to the next larger place. Both these halls were paid for, and then the collection above all expense was quite a sum, more than fifty dollars. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 3)
Now all this movement on the Sabbath was in the Lord’s order to make an impression upon the people. That is the very work the Lord would have done; and when the suggestion was made by Elder Andross for me to speak in the hall, I was then suffering—sick upon my bed in Loma Linda; but I consented and went through all that confusion, for the Lord healed me and gave them the truth definite and clear from Deuteronomy 5, 6. There was perfect attention. An old gentleman rose and said he wished I would speak on the fifteenth of John, but he was quieted. Next time I will do this, but now I was upon another subject of highest importance. I had strength given me to speak one hour and a little over. Never was there better interest manifested than on that occasion. There was the upper floor of the house, the gallery, full, and the whole lower part of the hall, and a few were standing. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 4)
Now I am convinced we are altogether too tame in our movements in giving the last message, the last call to the perishing world. We are not, many of us, half awake, and time is passing. I wish every opportunity possible to be given to a people who have never heard the message. Elder Andross has done his part nobly. I have not seen him since his wife was at the meeting, and it may be it was a tax to her. I must find out. I have my sick and suffering times, but whenever a call is made I get right up. I saw the Lord knows; He will strengthen me for the work. I am not feeling well; but when any calls come like this one, I shall be on my feet ready to speak. Such a crowd of people tried to get at me, to speak to me, but was not permitted. I have my ill turns, but I will not complain if the Lord will only stand as my Helper on such occasions as this. We are to trust in a Helper who is unfailing. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 5)
My heart goes out after the living God. I cling to Him. He will not fail us. My voice shall be heard in the large congregations. This effort that I have made will encourage me to improve such opportunities. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 6)
We must bring the promises of God to mind. I will bless the Lord that He gave me strength on that occasion, and my soul shall magnify the Lord. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 7)
I said to the man with the automobile that transported us from one place to another, “I will send you a book, for you have waited upon us right attentively.” “Oh,” said he, “if you only knew what this occasion has been to me! It is the greatest blessing of my life.” (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 8)
I will stop now for my breakfast is waiting for me. Thank the Lord for His mercy and great providence that I can bear my testimony to His people. We will be glad to meet you again. (25LtMs, Lt 151, 1910, 9)
Mother.
Lt 152, 1910
Daniells, A. G.
NP
1910
Previously unpublished. Incomplete.
[Elder Daniells:]
I have, Elder Daniells, a message to bear. The representation given me is that we as a people are in need of daily being converted. The work of God is as verily needed to reconvert His people who have had the light as it was in the giving of the first and second angels’ messages in 1841, 1842, and 1843. (25LtMs, Lt 152, 1910, 1)
Satan is surely triumphing over the long delay in warning the cities in the East, and the West will become awakened as this work shall be entered upon. True, in some places the cities have been touched, but worked? No, no. There is a great work to begin right in the cities, in the very best way possible. There cannot now be delays. While the Sunday question is in agitation, let the arguments be presented, coming from the Lord God of heaven in the spirit of the Great Teacher. When the truth is proclaimed in our cities, let it be under the divine influence. Angels of God will make the impressions. (25LtMs, Lt 152, 1910, 2)
While errors are flooding the world, as a people we are not to congregate in a few favorite places. Those who carry no special burden of the work are a hindrance to those who do bear the burdens. The Sunday question is being agitated, and all through our cities there should be men who will hold forth the evidence which is so abundant in the Word in regard to the true Sabbath. (25LtMs, Lt 152, 1910, 3)
[Remainder missing.]
Lt 153, 1910
Brethren and Sisters
St. Helena, California
1910
Previously unpublished. Incomplete.
My dear Brethren and Sisters:
I have been unable to sleep during my visit at Napa. I am awakened hours before day and cannot sleep. I awake in the morning about one o’clock. Then the burden rests upon me with increasing force. Who will serve as president of the conference the coming term? The Lord has distinctly expressed to me that the religious interest in the future is a most grave and solemn consideration. There has not been a deep searching into the genuine piety of the one who shall be selected. (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 1)
After the one who has served nine years was again accepted in the official position as president of the conference—it was a hasty move—a great burden came upon me. I am instructed to say this was not wise. There was given me light that a change must be made in the consenting to have the same man for a term of years. Directly after this, I was instructed we had made a mistake in settling this important matter without due consideration of who should be president. Seeking the Lord in prayer was not done, as to whom the Lord [would have]. (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 2)
Such questions must be decided only on the New Testament plan, with fasting and prayer. You are not to lay the burden of decision on me or W. C. White. The whole of the burden must not come upon us. The responsible men are to decide this question. We have wise, God-fearing men, and let all of them fast and pray. I will not have you looking to me. You are to decide this question. We have wise men who may judge, after due consideration and prayer, concerning this matter. There must be a number of men selected who are not self-centered. Men need to be first converted before they can serve. We have need of men who wrestle with God in prayer, who reveal that they fear God and keep His commandments. (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 3)
I cannot have you come to me to make decisions for you. When our ministers who are grayheaded in the service of God shall come together and unite in most earnest prayer to the Lord for the essential instruction needed, and humble their souls before God, then the Lord will respond. He has promised to instruct all those who seek Him in earnest faith. Let this course be pursued. I refuse to be one in your number, that you shall consult me, for the bearing of this wonderful responsibility shall not rest upon me. Recent past experience leads me to take this position. We have now a most serious question to settle. I shall not even be present in your assembly. (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 4)
There are lessons to be learned. Elder Cottrell needs to be reconverted from his sentiments, “Once in grace always in grace.” He can serve the cause of God acceptably in many ways if he is prepared to acknowledge that as a human being he is in constant danger and therefore must watch unto prayer, watch his words, lest he shall bring methods of human devising into his calculations to govern his mind in decisions. (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 5)
Who shall serve as president in chief? I am surprise that after all the testimonies that have been given in Washington under the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power, there should be a work left undone in the solemn act of deciding the men who shall carry the work loyally for the Lord Jesus, who gave His life a sacrifice, coming to our world to save the fallen race. And who have co-operated with the Lord Jesus to be co-laborers with Christ in the work of saving souls? (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 6)
And now work must be done in decisions and with their work undone for the cities—work which has been urged for years. The Lord refuses to give them the responsibility of working the cities, for they have evidenced they have not labored for the cities, to try to save souls perishing without the light. (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 7)
I carried a heavy burden on my soul at the Washington camp-meeting. I dared not resist the Holy Spirit’s moving. I gave the message the Lord had given me, and I watched to see what would be done in the cities. But I watched in vain. And then the word came to me, Why do the men, responsible men, leave the working of the cities year after year to them who evidently have no burden of soul as they see time passing and the wickedness of the cities fast held in Satan’s snare? Money is sent to work far-off fields, but armies are congregated in our cities and are still unworked. They have not been obtaining the help which they might have had to work their home field. Every delay to take up the work pleases the satanic agencies. (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 8)
Nine years have passed into eternity, Elder Daniells, and these fields in our cities have been neglected. Untaught, uneducated souls are perishing. How can we save these souls? Now it is very much harder for the workers to enter and begin to plan for a work that ought to have been done years ago, as soon as the field was entered, and men made themselves responsible. What can this mean? I carried the burden; and then yourself and Brother Prescott blazing out upon a subject that was not a testing question, not essential for our soul’s salvation, is presented to me as the work of Lucifer who was expelled from heaven. [Not completed.] (25LtMs, Lt 153, 1910, 9)
Lt 154, 1910
Kress, Brother and Sister [D. H.]
NP
1910
Previously unpublished. Fragment.
[First part missing.]
As I read the Word of the Lord, I see abundant work provided for every soul. Matthew 10:1-8. We have a very high and sacred work given us to perform. We are to be imbued with the Spirit of Christ and call upon Him in faith to do the healing as we shall act our part, because the Lord Jesus is the Healer. (25LtMs, Lt 154, 1910, 1)
“What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.” Matthew 10:27. Many discourses were given upon housetops. Roofs of many houses were flat. This chapter is an important chapter. We all need to learn of Christ. (25LtMs, Lt 154, 1910, 2)
Now my Brother Kress and my Sister, I see so great a work to do that I may honor my Saviour, that I dare not take myself in my own hands. You must, my brother and sister, do the very work for this time that will bring the most light and help to bless others. You can understand the will of God if you consecrate yourself to the Lord Jesus. I did hope much that you would be a great blessing to communicate light to souls in the highways, also in the byways, and would be glad [for you] to talk out your ideas in this direction. But I dare not mark out any line for you, because it may bring perplexity and not relief. I want you to serve the Lord, just as you can do, so that His name may receive glory. Therefore I will not venture to counsel you further than I have already done. (25LtMs, Lt 154, 1910, 3)
You are on the ground. And that God who knows you and all with whom you are associated will be your counselor and so order your position and work to accomplish the work He sees you can do to glorify His name. Therefore I shall not, being afar off and not nigh, counsel you unless I have a special message. (25LtMs, Lt 154, 1910, 4)
Now I believe if you will consecrate your own self wholly to the Lord, He will guide you in the very way to best glorify His holy name. He has said He would do this. Then let reference to myself not come into your calculation. If I have anything the Lord gives me for you or your family, then you shall have it. Let you and I and your wife walk humbly with God. We will read 2 Peter 1:1-5. (25LtMs, Lt 154, 1910, 5)
There are so many who wish me to decide things for them concerning their religious duties; the Lord would not have me do this. Let us look unto the Lord and learn to trust wholly in Him and walk in all humility of mind. I must be excused from trying to find out what is your duty before the Lord. I am determined to walk and labor. Now is the time for the men bearing responsibilities to pray, and watch and pray, for changes are to be made. [Remainder missing.] (25LtMs, Lt 154, 1910, 6)
Lt 155, 1910
Cottrell, H. W.
NP
1910
Previously unpublished.
My Brother Cottrell:
I am so sorry that you are revealing the real traits of your ideas. You have taken a course to injure yourself. I am more sorry for you than I can express, that you should be with us and yet not of us. When you came to Melrose we had confidence in you, but you have such strange ideas that from light given me, unless you are convicted and converted from your strange opinions, there will be strange back-working with those who are connected with you. You have perfect confidence in your own opinion, and that opinion will be of such a character that the cause of God will be marred. Your help has been prized, for Elder Haskell has depended largely on your assistance; and we have felt thankful and ever shall feel thankful for your help. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 1)
But when the talk was to have you for president of the California Conference, I was obliged to say to our brethren, No; for I was instructed that these very things objectionable in your character disqualified you to preside over any conference, because your ideas were not in harmony with the mind and the working of the Holy Spirit of God. I have watched lest your name should be proposed, for you could never be accepted as president of any conference among our people. Your failure to view things in a correct light made this impossible; for your own opinion you treat as supreme, and you would carry others with you, and this would bring confusion into our ranks. This is the reason I publicly took the hand of Elder Haskell and at that time signified that he would be accepted to serve, and a true man to serve with him that would prevent your being accepted; for I had been charged this must never be unless your position regarding the infallibility of your own ideas was changed. Therefore I expressed myself to Elder Haskell, [regarding] a true, sound man connected with Elder Haskell, true in his experience, one who could work in intelligence with Elder Haskell, so that he could have periods of rest, and yet be counsellor with the companion in labor. This move would be safe at this time, and matters would move wisely. That night was the most remarkable night I have had for the last thirty years. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 2)
It is the purpose of God to glorify God in His people before the world, and Elder Cottrell’s misconception and erring judgment would, if president of the conference, [cause] incorrect decisions. And as the light of God has shone forth in correct light, we can accept Elder Haskell, in connection with his wife, as viewing Scriptures and expounding the Scriptures in correct light. He would not mislead, and with his wife, an accepted laborer of God with her husband, and with the ministerial help of a sound mind, matters would move under the guidance of the Lord correctly. The minister and his wife, blending perfectly in understanding of the Scriptures, will be a great strength to Elder Haskell; for consulting together and praying together, they can accomplish a double work. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 3)
I was instructed that the Lord would give knowledge. It is not only by distributing literature, not only by preaching the truth, but by living the truth, that we witness for God. Let it be borne in mind [that] a Christlikeness in spiritual life is a decided, powerful argument; that the instruction given from the Word and the knowledge of past experience in conducting the work are a telling influence. The words from the pulpit and the educational instruction given, blending together, will be more than a sermon in the lives of those who advocate the truth. We have a great, grand work before us, and we must not fail nor be discouraged. We will now leave this matter with a few words Christ says of His people: “Ye are the light of the world.” Matthew 5:14. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 4)
We are placed under heavy responsibilities before the world and angels and men. Here is expressed our responsibilities. It is the purpose of God that divine and human shall unite their instrumentalities in the proclamation of the warning message. It seems a strange thing to commit so large a trust to human beings. “Son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me. When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 5)
“Therefore, O thou son of man, speak unto the house of Israel; Thus ye speak, saying, If our transgressions and our sins be upon us, and we pine away in them, how shall we then live? Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and life; turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel? (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 6)
“Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression; as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby, in the day when he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 7)
“When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed he shall die for it. Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right; if the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die. None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live. Yet the children of thy people say, The way of the Lord is not equal.” Ezekiel 33:7-17. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 8)
Read this chapter, including verse 20. Here the Lord is speaking in explicit language. To all who study this chapter it is simple and plain. It is the Word of God, and to every church who would keep the way of the Lord is given the particular statement, If the church desire the blessing of the Lord, let them consider their ways and correct the evils. Let every church member take heed to his ways in every particular, to correct any evils in any matter and repent and be converted, that his sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 9)
I am to bear a message to you, my brother. You cannot, in the order of the Lord, carry your own impressions as righteous and unchangeable. The light the Lord has given me has been of a clear, decided character that your statements are incorrect. The morals of the school have made representations that have been unwholesome and incorrect, and your words and works spoil you as a laborer. I feel intensely concerning you, as I am deeply impressed that these ideas must change, else your usefulness is spoiled. I have had no words personally with you, but it is impossible for you to connect with our people as a laborer. Your strange attitude, to set your own opinion as supreme, forbids the work we would have you do. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 10)
In regard to the school not being moved from Healdsburg, that may be the opinion of some, but one in particular. There was waiting only for an opening, which came unexpectedly at last in the Angwin property, and this settled the question because the Lord opened the way. The light given me was that the school should be moved, and it has been hindered two years because of circumstances. But your statements in several things are decidedly opposed to the truth, and I am so sorry because it decides the matter. We cannot longer regard you as a safe man to be entrusted with responsibilities. It is not the inspiration of the Spirit of God that has brought this heavy burden on the conference, but the strong deception of the enemy. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 11)
These peculiar traits of character unfit you for the work we hoped you could do. Why will you carry these traits of character that we are so sorry they make it impossible to connect you with Elder Haskell? These developments and traits of character make it utterly impossible to retain you. I am so very sorry for your wife, but I am glad that the truth of the case is now before us. God may in mercy bring you to see the case as it is. But there is no place for such peculiar demonstration of character. I am so sorry, so very sorry, but I was instructed that you were not to be entrusted with responsibilities for conference work. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 12)
All this infallibility claimed by you is a strange prerogative of your character. This strange, peculiar facet of your character is so peculiar as to make it impossible to take any other course of action, but leave you out of all responsibilities. The question was asked me, What about Elder Cottrell being president of the California Conference? He must never be placed to occupy a prominent position to any place, for a strange spirit would lead him to do strange things, and the proposition must not be made, unless he was converted. Oh, I am so sorry! This is one of the trials that we cannot explain, but his peculiar traits of character must not be connected with the work of God in any important transactions. I would like to talk with the man myself. (25LtMs, Lt 155, 1910, 13)
Lt 156, 1910
Cottrell, H. W.
NP
1910 or 1911
This letter is published in entirety in 20MR 224-227.
H. W. Cottrell:
I have words to write to you, Elder Cottrell. As my eyes pain me I can scarcely tell your dangers as fully as I would be glad to do. Your idea that the positions you assert are infallible is very dangerous. Your fallibility is shown in claiming that position. The Word of God is Yea and Amen. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 1)
My brother, you did stand commended of God in a position when you were chosen, so willing to encourage and help Elder Haskell, and the Lord sustained you in doing your duty at a time when your help was especially a great encouragement to him. There were some who were jealous of Elder Haskell and his wife. I will not write the names. The Lord had presented the persons to me. The decided experience of Elder Haskell in connection with Elder James White and myself made the two safe generals in the work. But neither of these men claimed infallibility. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 2)
This infallibility is a new experience to come into our work. Their trust was in God, and Elder Haskell from his earliest labors in connection with Elder James White, in the place of losing confidence in Elder White, had his confidence increased in him as a man led and taught of God. Elder James White was received and trusted. He never claimed infallibility. The light given him was always received and always believed because the Holy Spirit accompanied the message of the testimonies entrusted to give to God’s people. They had been proved. But there was a class that refused the testimonies and went into fanaticism. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 3)
Elder Haskell was rooted and grounded in the light given, coming from the Lord’s messenger. I had an experience that I must cherish because it came from God, and the evidence was so very strong that the light was given of God. But fanatical ideas came up and were brought in by men claiming to have light from the Lord. The Lord presented to me the position taken by some as unreliable and unsafe, and this brought about truth in contrast with dangerous error. There were those who refused to see the light and chose their own ways and ideas. The light God had given was refused. It revealed that their own characters were unsafe to be trusted. The truth was pointed out in clear, distinct lines in the light given of God. There were men of great self-confidence who refused the light God had given and declared their position to be infallible. Notwithstanding the evidence was sufficient, they refused to receive the light given in the testimonies. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 4)
Elder Maxson was a man determined to have his own way. When this light was given, some would accept and some would close their minds and hearts to all the evidence given of the Lord. They followed their own way, and two parties were created, not agreeing among themselves. Those who had taken their stand upon the light given held firmly to the position that the Lord was leading His people through genuine experience; but some who wanted to have their own way in the sanitarium would act out their own disposition, refused all correction of their errors that the Lord had graciously given, and talked their unbelief. Thus two parties have been formed. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 5)
Elder Maxson set up a warfare against the light, determined to oppose; and they have continued to do this. Evidence was sufficient, but the ones who opposed the light gave evidence they were not led of the Lord. This has been a great evil and has hindered the advancement of the work of the Lord in reflecting His light to the world. There were the two parties; and when we returned from doing the work in foreign countries, a state of things existed that had to be righted up; and notwithstanding all the evidence given of the correct work to be done, some men determined to carry things their own way, which made the work exceedingly hard. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 6)
Elder Cottrell was one who stood in many respects on right ground. But a very strange thing came into our ranks in some of our leading men that a position that some had, when once taken, was to be held under all events as never to be changed—infallibility. This has proved itself to be a great error. There is reformation to be made in churches. When the light of truth shall come to them this would create harmonious sentiments, else the ones who now persist in their assumed infallibility would go out from us, as some have done. But some are found to take a position in opposition, which creates disunion, not particularly with the faith received, but in the expression of the faith; and that all that they may do is infallible, when no such things are to be accepted. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 7)
If one differs from his brethren and insists he is infallible, he is a dangerous element; if he never yields that he has anything to correct, he is in a dangerous position. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 8)
It is a great fallacy in a man [to claim], because he has accepted certain theories, that his ideas are infallible. If others cannot see these things in the same way another sees them, what then? Because he has expressed his faith in that sentiment, has he immortalized that idea in his mind as unchangeable? There are some who express ideas as the truth, but is that man’s mind immortalized? Is his view of matters unchangeable? We need good, sound common sense. If we have certain ideas of things and another views these things in a different light, and expresses them thus, what shall be done? Withdraw fellowship from him? No; but these objectionable things, if expressed, cause dissension and strife. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 9)
I will now refer to some things. The Lord gave me special testimony that such a state of things existed at Healdsburg, that our efforts should not be made to continue it as an important educating center. But a certain brother expresses in his mind sentiments counter to this. Then shall that man’s human judgment be expressed as the command of God? This one instance I mention. Shall that brother build up a counterworking? No. Let him keep his impressions to himself; his ideas upon subjects may be incorrect and fallible. Should he express his individual judgment and exalt that human judgment and immortalize the same as unchangeable? I had been instructed that all such infallibility claimed for any man—that he must not change but hold to as infallibility—is the great mistake of his life. The Lord presented to me that for the college to be at Healdsburg would be a mistake. The moral and religious influence would not be refined, purified, sanctified. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 10)
Now I have not been able to sleep after twelve o’clock for two nights because the case of Elder Cottrell has been presented to me. The Lord will use Elder Cottrell if he will give up the idea that plans he may suggest are infallible, never to be revoked. This understanding is an erroneous idea. God does not endorse it. This is the position that Lucifer took. He was next to Christ in the heavenly courts, but decided that he was entitled to a higher position. Read and understand Ezekiel 28:11-18. This matter has been opened to me. When the Lord sought to correct him, he would not be corrected; and when any man in all our ranks shall not be willing to yield up his own way, but will persistently choose to follow his own judgment, carrying the idea that his judgment is unchangeable, he claims infallibility. The Lord has no more any use for him unless he changes his ideas. There is help for such if they will be helped. They need reconversion. There are men and women in our churches who need reconversion. If they accept an opinion, they first need to search the Word to know if that position they take is infallible from the pure, clean statements of the Word of God. They are not to take a certain position on important subjects hastily. (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 11)
I have a very pitiful feeling for those who suppose their position upon some ideas, if once expressed, is not to be changed. If they have, in their human judgment, decided the course that should be taken, circumstances may arise that make necessary a change in their decision. This was the case at Mountain View, where the work and cause of God demand a change in the position of some, else the Lord cannot use them. Obedience to the way of the Lord will improve their manner of laboring. That an opinion once expressed is infallible is a most dangerous idea as it relates to the working out of the Lord’s plans. While in counsel all present may have laid out certain plans to follow, but as others are informed there are intelligent reasons presented why these plans should be changed. [Remainder missing.] (25LtMs, Lt 156, 1910, 12)
Lt 157, 1910
Cottrell, H. W.
NP
1910
Previously unpublished.
[Brother Cottrell:]
My Brother Cottrell, I have a message for you that you are in the uttermost danger. Your position is a false one that cannot be sustained. In our early connection with this work, we went through all this experience of men claiming infallibility. We had for years to meet this and were always carried back to the experience of the first departure from truth in the history of the fall of Lucifer from heaven. He occupied a special, exalted position in the heavenly courts. He must have no one higher than himself. He must be next to God in efficiency. But Christ was above him, and he claimed he must be above Christ. Christ was the only begotten Son of God, united with God. (25LtMs, Lt 157, 1910, 1)
I have dreaded to ever touch these subjects, but in order to save Elder Cottrell that he perish not in assuming the wisdom he supposes it is possible for him to have, I must say a few things to save his soul, if possible. Therefore I have taken up the matter to explain to all with whom he is conversant in regard to his danger. (25LtMs, Lt 157, 1910, 2)
I have a message for Elder Cottrell: My Brother Cottrell, I have had your case presented to me, and I am now prepared to speak. Your idea of human infallibility is the most spurious and the most dangerous and inexplainable to yourself and to others. “As a man thinketh, so is he.” [Proverbs 23:7.] (25LtMs, Lt 157, 1910, 3)
If you have unerring judgment, you have not made it apparent; certainly not in the eyes of the Lord, or of man. But the position you claim is a mistaken idea that will prove the loss of your soul unless you give it up. Your views of this matter are erroneous, and that one matter of the infallibility of your opinion will be sufficient cause not to elect you to special office. (25LtMs, Lt 157, 1910, 4)
I am to tell you in the name of the Lord: Unless you are reconverted upon this point, you should not be elected to any office, because your supposition of infallibility forbids that you should assume official service. You may reason from cause to effect. We are none yet infallible and shall never become thus until this mortal puts on immortality. And you could not serve acceptably in any position where there are possibilities of having to change your opinion. But I am to tell you some sentiments that are not to be sustained by you or any mortal man or woman that lives. That you do not err is a fallacy, for it is a false theory that no human being should or can sustain. Mortal man is liable to err. (25LtMs, Lt 157, 1910, 5)
There is no possibility of any man with such a defective mind as to entertain such a position being called to the presidency of any conference. You are to understand they are not honestly living up to their profession. They are living a lie; and if they have sufficient reasoning capacity to understand from cause to effect, they have not sacred ingenuity to take the responsibilities of the cause of God in its varied features. The dangers we passed through in correcting the fanatical consequences of men that claimed infallibility years ago, since 1843, were the most that were spoken. That man’s religion is vain who claims infallibility in judgment. All those who make such claims evidence before the people that their religion is vain, that they need to be taught of God. (25LtMs, Lt 157, 1910, 6)
The Lord bids me to say that there will be a most decided work done by these fallible men who claim infallibility, which is a most seductive error. I am instructed to say to you, All this holding to sentiments of infallibility is a specious device of the angel that was so exalted in the heavenly court. His beauty was so highly exalted that he thought he should be as God, and Christ must be second to him; but the Lord informed Satan this could not be possible. Christ was His only begotten Son. [Remainder missing.] (25LtMs, Lt 157, 1910, 7)
Lt 158, 1910
Cottrell, H. W.
Oakland, California
1910
Previously unpublished.
My Brother, Elder Cottrell:
I have a few words to write to you lest you may misinterpret my ideas and feelings towards you. (25LtMs, Lt 158, 1910, 1)
I will not leave you under impressions that are not true. I have supposed I should have seen you and had an opportunity to converse with you. Then I could explain matters to you and obtain some words of explanation from you. But as that opportunity has not come, I will now endeavor to express myself to you. I do not wish you to be laboring under a false impression that you do not err in judgment. I have sorrow of heart. You have acted a noble part in standing by Elder Haskell, and there have been some strange things that have developed in certain directions as we had to meet in the state of Maine. There was the fanaticism that we had to meet in Portland and in various places in New York, and it was from men that claimed that they were unfailing in judgment, that were claiming infallibility. We had to meet this strange presumption over and over again until the Lord gave decided testimony, Let them alone; you have done all you can do. And any man who claims that he is infallible is never to be placed in office, for he knoweth not what spirit he is of, and can never be trusted with responsibilities to deal with human minds. I therefore could not, from the light given me, accept your assertions. Your statements that the school was moved from Healdsburg too soon was falsehood, for the Lord is true and never makes a mistake. [Unfinished.] (25LtMs, Lt 158, 1910, 2)
Lt 159, 1910
Crisler, C. C.
Loma Linda, California
1910
Portions of this letter are published in 6Bio 297.
To Brother Crisler:
I shall not try to take an active part here. I have not strength to write much this morning, but I will send a few lines to you special and say we are soon coming home. Two weeks more and I will, I think, be on my way. I determined to do my best, and every one has helped me as far as they possibly could, and I am thankful for the strength given me. (25LtMs, Lt 159, 1910, 1)
Elder Crisler, may the Lord spare your life to continue your precious, valuable work, is my prayer. You have been, with your valuable experience, so much help to me, to work out the things that are to me of highest value. This you have never failed to do. (25LtMs, Lt 159, 1910, 2)
February 2 [?]
There is a great work to be done. We hope you will come to this meeting. There is much I wish to say. Are you coming to this meeting? I need you very much, but I do not want to be too anxious. When we can join one another in our labors, I think we shall not be perplexed, for the Lord is opening matters to me. All who are connected with our schools as teachers are to understand what it means to learn from the highest Source the requirements of God and then carry them out in sanctified, refined characters. We are not to follow the sentiments of the world and call this the higher education. God has been educating His people in the higher principles of education. Our principles are to be kept high and ennobling, sanctifying the receiver. The science of higher education means the grand work of sanctification. (25LtMs, Lt 159, 1910, 3)
Lt 160, 1910
NA
NP
1910
Previously unpublished. Fragment.
[First part missing.]
You can appreciate these special advantages, and when we shall meet we will talk these things over together. You are doing the very class of work that has been represented to me again and again must be done in that field. Many cities are to be wisely worked, and the very best influences should be given to this valuable place, Melrose—Melrose and Boston. I am very sure that the Lord has led and placed us in this very desirable location. We will thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice that the simplicity of true godliness will have effect, and the Lord will bless His people who will work in Christlike simplicity. (25LtMs, Lt 160, 1910, 1)
Friday morning, I am up at my usual hour. I am up, and kindle the fire, all prepared for me to light at four o’clock. I cannot sleep beyond that hour. We breakfast at seven. I am writing now by lamplight. The Lord will cut short His work when the world is warned. Many are being tested and have made their decision. I shall now attend to my writings and close up the book on the life of Paul that I am now completing. (25LtMs, Lt 160, 1910, 2)
John was successful in his ministry as he presented and enforced the doctrine of repentance because the kingdom of heaven was at hand. John proved very successful in his ministry, and many presented themselves, confessing their sins, and were baptized in Jordan and were willing to submit to what the teacher, the prophet, subscribed as essential to obtain an inheritance in that kingdom he came to declare. We have a special, sacred message to bear to all of our cities that have not heard the reasons for our faith, which all who labor in any line of the work are to present in their simplicity under the dictation of the Holy Spirit, which the Lord would have all His workers possess. (25LtMs, Lt 160, 1910, 3)
The conversions of the Pharisees surprised the Baptist, as they had evidenced that they maintained a high opinion of their own sanctity. But when the truth is presented, the Lord by His Holy Spirit is present to convict of sinful practices, and the honest in heart desire to obtain the blessing of salvation as presented. The whole nation was stirred or intensely interested as they read the word: (25LtMs, Lt 160, 1910, 4)
“Thus saith the Lord, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinance of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; the Lord of hosts is His name: if those ordinances depart from before Me, saith the Lord, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before Me forever. Thus saith the Lord; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done.” Jeremiah 31:35-37. (25LtMs, Lt 160, 1910, 5)
The Lord would have His Holy Spirit brought to the people. We move in the simplicity of true godliness. We need to carry the message in the spirit expressed in the message. We need the simplicity of true godliness, and must have it. (25LtMs, Lt 160, 1910, 6)
Lt 161, 1910
White, J. E.; White, Emma
NP
1910
Previously unpublished.
[Dear Children:]
Because Satan has taken the field to work his work, every conceivable excitement over minor matters is taking place in towns and cities. City missions should have been established years ago, and I am no longer to hold my peace. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 1)
We need now the meekness of Christ. The Lord has viewed as a jot and tittle things which you suppose are of great importance. You cannot see the end from the beginning. We see a great, important work to be done now. Will you two divert minds by some jot or tittle, just as the enemy would be wonderfully pleased to have you do, to swing open a door that leads to questioning and division of sentiment? Nothing is gained, and you cannot see the outcome of your giving the trumpet an uncertain sound. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 2)
The heaviest evidences are to be brought in now on the verity and confirmation of the great test question—Exodus 20 and 31:12-18. Here is the important testing question, and the enemy is trying his best to get minds diverted to make a world of an atom. These words were spoken and are placed in print in Testimonies, Vol. 6, No. 34. In our large meetings—camp-meetings and tent efforts—in or near the large cities, there should be abundance of ministerial help so that one or two ministers will not become overwearied and give the trumpet an uncertain sound. It is high time that the clean, pure, testing truths, that mean life to the receiver, shall be brought to the front in Washington. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 3)
The principles of right eating and drinking that mean earnest reform in many lines are now to be agitated decidedly. The people are to be taught how to prepare wholesome food. The work of health reform is to many as light shining in a dark place. It is surely possible to have health reform stand out in its own true, pure virtue. According to your enlightened faith shall it be unto you. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 4)
Altogether too great a tax has been placed upon the digestive organs by eating too much of a mixture in the same meal. The subject of proper, wholesome diet is to be brought into the teaching of health reform much more decidedly. Which foods, intelligently cooked and prepared, will be a blessing to the whole human system? Nothing canned in tin should be purchased, notwithstanding many presume to do this. Many, I am instructed, die in consequence. One warning was given me in the earlier years of my married life that seeds of disease may be planted in the system, and that many die from using tin-canned fruit—it may be of their own preparing. Educate the taste to eat simple food. This is not a trivial matter, for many phases of disease will be brought into activity through food taken into the stomach. Too great a variety of food at one meal creates disturbance. Let all educate the taste to eat simple food and to avoid indulging the appetite in that which may have the least danger of aggravating hereditary and dormant tendencies to activity. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 5)
I have written this to many and now write the same to you, my children James Edson and Emma White at Nashville. You are both to be careful. Have good, nourishing food, but avoid every particle of fruits or meats canned in tin. Just one mistake has oft resulted in the loss of several lives. Will it pay? Exercise the uttermost care how you eat. The Lord will bless your caution, and you can help others. At one meal do not have a variety of foods that do not agree, but quarrel. We must exercise good judgment, especially ministers. May the Lord give you the best of His grace to preserve your strength in the best condition. I have had positive direction to give to families to eat at one meal the food that will not produce a disturbance. The selection you must judge for yourself, but it is of value to be cautious in mixing your food. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 6)
I find in my publications in Testimonies to the Church, Vol. 6, No. 34, an article on “Educational Reform”: (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 7)
‘And they shall build the old waste places, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.’ ‘And thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.’ Isaiah 61:4; 58:12. These words of Inspiration present before believers in present truth the work that should now be done in the education of our children and youth. When the truth for these last days came to the world in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages, we were shown that in the education of our children a different order of things must be brought in.” Testimonies for the Church 6:126. In some places it has taken much time to comprehend the true reformatory work God required of His people, and many families are far behind. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 8)
This is a commission the Lord has given me to give to His people, for you to work out the Lord’s plan and thus be doing good in giving light to others in clear, distinct ways. Teachers, gather to yourselves every possible means to qualify yourselves, to secure the very best educational advantages possible. Students should be watching their chance to converse together, read the Word, and pray with one another for the grace and truth that Christ gives to be imparted, that every student and teacher in every department shall become refined in conversation, in manners, and in habits, and clean and pure in language. Thus you will be improving the opportunity to become prepared to be transferred to the heavenly courts, where Christ will lead you beside the living waters and teach you the grand lessons of heavenly order. In all this schooling you are obtaining here in this school below, you are preparing for the highest grade above. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 9)
Christ especially leads and instructs the ones who have made the best use of their time in this life to take all the sanctified knowledge to the courts above. This is what every student should aim for—to obtain the knowledge Christ Jesus will certainly give to every student, making the best of his opportunities to help others in this life. I am instructed to present to you that both students and teachers may continually be learning of Christ, who lives and reigns in the heavenly courts as one proved and tried in the various trials of humanity, yet pronounced without fault before the throne of God. Christ was appointed to live the life of a human being, that He might be found an example, pure and holy, all through the trying process of living in humanity in a world of sin and coming forth without a stain of sin upon Him. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 10)
Let the sanctification of the Holy Spirit be received and practiced daily in the school. Your sons and daughters may be a true example and may lead others aright. I am interested for you all and have a most earnest desire that you shall not continue to spoil your children by a misunderstanding of what will be for their happiness. We have a heaven to win; and unless souls are sanctified, can they be glorified? (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 11)
I will now say, Please keep me informed of your prosperity in the healing of the body and of the soul. I am in the conference now. I was appointed to speak at Los Angeles. I got up from my sickbed full of infirmities and spoke. They had hired a hall. (25LtMs, Lt 161, 1910, 12)
Lt 162, 1910
Prescott, Brother and Sister [W. W.]
NP
1910
Previously unpublished.
[Dear Elder and Mrs. Prescott:]
Elder Prescott and wife, we sympathize with you both, but the Lord is gracious, and all you can do is to call to the church to humble themselves before God; and in the place of creating ball playing for exercise, let the students humble their hearts before God and engage in doing missionary work, which must be done for the salvation of soul and body. Let the students have set times to go out and open the Scriptures to the people in the surrounding neighborhood, thus opening blind eyes to see the light of the Word of God. (25LtMs, Lt 162, 1910, 1)
Such a message was given me in Australia to give to our school. It was a hard matter for teachers and students to give up amusements, but this missionary work is to be done. The Word of God is to be carried to your neighbors and to settlements in the surrounding towns as you can arrange. Let teachers and students place themselves in line to accomplish this work for which our schools are established. This was the very work that was started in Avondale with complete success. The presentation was given the teachers, and the scholars urged it. My message was positive. We were seeking to inform the minds and reform the characters of the students. Let the afflictions in your midst humble your hearts to follow the example of the One who was the world’s Redeemer, who went from place to place doing good. This [amusement] was hard to give up in Avondale School, but the message was received and the time was spent in exercise to benefit and be a blessing to the school. (25LtMs, Lt 162, 1910, 2)
There are needful things to be done in good works, which yield the agreeable satisfaction that your time was not spent in playing ball and inventing amusements. Time is too precious; time is more precious than gold. Opportunities present themselves to communicate and give the precious light of truth to younger school children. Thus you can open the Word, which is your work to do, to help instruct others; and the Lord Jesus instructs you. (25LtMs, Lt 162, 1910, 3)
Lt 163, 1910
Daniells, A. G.; Prescott, W. W.
NP
1910
Previously unpublished.
My Brethren Daniells and Prescott:
I present before you again the unworked cities. And if you feel no special burden to become interested, when the Lord has kept the work before you, notwithstanding wickedness of every description is increasing daily, there is no virtue in your sending all the means to foreign lands. We have in our own American cities thousands upon thousands right close by. New York City is to be worked by well-organized parties. There are churches that will open their doors to hear the message that you have to bear. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 1)
Satan is making every invention to attract the people’s attention. He is manifesting a vigilance that is enlarging and increasing continually. While our people have the presentation before them of crime of every degree and order, and of increasing iniquity, there are not decided messages borne. Wherever there are cities, we see the spirit of awful lawlessness, the invention of every possible contrivance, one to excel the other. There is death and cruelty in every city. But where are the Lord’s watchmen, getting in wherever they can with every means possible to warn the wicked by the presentation of Bible truth? How long shall this wickedness and crime continue and not call our people to make use of every invention possible to set to work? (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 2)
Satan is putting every invention in the minds of people to keep their attention, so that the messages of warning shall not reach them. While our people are so dilatory to work the cities, Satan and his angels, unseen, are working out his plans to control all minds that will be controlled. The delay to have the message go as the Lord has represented it should go is giving the satanic angels the advantage. Satan looks with pleased recognition at the great stirring folly of men in setting in operation agencies to create wonderful things. There boast is, We have gods among us. And satanic agencies will devise many things to absorb much means and bring pressure just where and when means are most needed, that the work shall be thorough and substantial in order to bear the impress of the great Master Workman. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 3)
The law of the Lord was to be sacredly repeated in the wilderness. It was to be made into song, and instruments of music were to express the importance of the words of direction and the commandments of God. While keeping step to the music, the people must make their words solemn and impressive. This was to be an interesting exercise. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 4)
The lessons given in all our meetings are to be of that character that will bear the impress of the Divine. While the world is seeking to demonstrate their flying machines at the cost of life, more or less, the Lord would enjoin His people to engage in a sacred activity to carry out His holy law. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 5)
As the Israelites walked, they kept step, thus expressing in song and step the precepts of heaven, that these precepts should not become a strange thing. His will was to be exalted before the people at all times. As they marched they were to observe in their songs the law of respect and unselfishness toward each other. Christ was there, enshrouded in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. The words of the law were to be repeated by Moses and then repeated by all in song. This was done often in their travels; thus disorder was not allowed. Now I just casually mention this fact. The travels of the children of Israel were so conducted day by day as to keep before them that Christ was in that pillar of cloud. Let us all remember that we are to bear in mind that all our manners in our home are to be as under the all-seeing eye of the Lord Jesus. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 6)
Satan is working to keep up his inventions to occupy the minds of converted and unconverted. There are many who, through the influence of the unconverted to become one with them, act as if unconverted and dishonor their profession of believing the truth. I would call upon men and women to come into line. Separate yourselves from the ungodly who dishonor God in their schemes. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 7)
Christ for our sakes laid off His royal robe and kingly crown and clothed Himself in the garments of humanity, that He might come into our world and practice self-denial in our humanity. For our sakes Christ became poor, that we through His poverty might take hold through faith of His divine nature and become rich. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 8)
He taught that all who receive Him and become His followers should become one with Him in self-denial and self-sacrifice, as He gave us example. All who would become partakers of His divine nature are to unite in love, in self-denial, in self-sacrifice, as He, our great Exemplar, has given us His example. We will act our part in representing the character of Christ to our world. He, the Lord of glory, has given us an example of a symmetrical character, perfect and complete, and we are to follow His example. Not one, therefore, needs to complain of the self-denial and self-sacrifice, for this is to be our testimony, that we choose the self-sacrificing part, as Christ has given us example. He for our sakes became poor, that we through His example of poverty might be made rich. His lessons were acted out in His whole life, that His followers should unite with Him in love and in unity to work out before the world the example He came to our world to give. We should never make the mistake of supposing that we can serve the world and yet sit down with the One who suffered, who humbled Himself, that we should have the perfect representation of what a Christian should be. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 9)
We shall be without excuse if we fail, whether we are ministers or physicians or educators. Christ was all these; and if there is a failure upon the part of any, it is because they do not make themselves worthy to be perfect in character, as Christ came to our world to live, our example in humanity. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 10)
I am now to say, Christ is our example. For our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich in heavenly attributes. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 11)
All His followers are to live in this life the example Christ came to give us. Now will every member of the church reveal in practical life that he appreciates the infinite sacrifice? And the Father consented that Christ should come to the world and suffer, giving His own life, that all who will receive Him as their Saviour may reveal to the world a life without fault before the throne of God. Then whatever we may be called to suffer, we may, through this self-sacrifice and suffering, be partakers of the divine nature, sure of an inheritance in His kingdom, receiving of His glory. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 12)
The third angel’s message is to be proclaimed to every nation, tongue, and people. I am instructed of the Lord to say, The entire world is to be warned. I am to say, The Lord will not excuse our ministers, our physicians, our leading men who have occupied positions as presidents, as elders. All in positions of trust have not been faithful to fulfil their responsibilities; and should Christ come today, there are those who occupy responsible positions to whom Christ cannot say, “Thou good and faithful servant: ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] Unconverted self has obtained the mastery of many. Unless they heed the admonitions of the Lord and are thoroughly converted, they cannot hear the voice of commendation, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant, ... enter ye into the kingdom of thy Lord.” (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 13)
There must be most particular attention given wherever we center our forces to establish memorials for the Lord Jesus. Men are needed who can discern clearly that those who are placed in positions of responsibility are to understand that the third angel’s message is to be proclaimed to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. The world is to be warned. There is still a great work to be done in every city, in every town, in every center of population where there are men of all nationalities, of all tongues. Whoever understands his duty will now deny self and practice economy. A great work is yet to be done. There are many cities to be worked thoroughly. The cities have had very little done in them, and while this delay continues souls are ending their lives who have never been warned. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 14)
We cannot make large, conspicuous centers. This has been said before our people. In several localities the Lord Himself has placed us in possession of buildings that had the furniture and the needed preparation to commence work at once. We thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice that there is not to be needless expense, but there have been hindrances that have not pleased the Lord. When the Lord declares certain places are to be occupied, let unbelief hold its influence under the sanctification of the truth. There have been in some cases the hindrance of human judgment that must not be allowed to exist again. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 15)
Wherever we can consistently establish memorials for God, let it be done. We can begin and do our best and let ministers, physicians, and all who possibly can get an opportunity to give the word of warning to the churches. Let several work in this line and then come together to compare experiences. There has been such silence on this important matter! I am charged for the last ten years to urge that cities have the Bible message of truth. And there are now ministers who are giving up the Word of God for fables and stating that the Bible cannot be depended upon, that it is in need of changing. Those who know the truth are all to invent means to open the Scriptures to those who are not enlightened. Those of all languages are to be found in our cities, and the greatest work committed to mortals does not arouse our people. What answer can you render to God for your positive neglect? Do that which He has specified should be done. (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 16)
I have felt it my duty to arouse our own people, who have the light in regard to the things which are coming upon the world, to explain the Word. God has given to leading ministers, and especially physicians, to trace the increase of crime and development of cruelty and every species of wickedness, and what are we doing to flash the light of the messages Christ has given upon the world, perishing in their sins? What awfulness is opening and increasing! The devil’s army is in the field. [Remainder missing.] (25LtMs, Lt 163, 1910, 17)
Lt 164, 1910
Ministering Brethren
NP
1910
Previously unpublished.
To Ministering Brethren:
“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him. Let no man say when he is tempted. I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: but every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.” James 1:12-14. Read the whole chapter. Read the Word and understand the meaning. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 1)
“My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that ye shall receive the greater condemnation. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!” James 3:1-5. Read this whole chapter and then, feeling your personal dangers, be wise in your speech. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 2)
Take the first chapter of the First Epistle of Peter; read, and let every church member obey the Word in the letter and in the spirit, commencing this chapter with a full purpose to carry it out. If every man and woman seeking office would solemnly believe these words of Peter, would there not be a decided change in the words and in the spirit as you speak to others? Take the Word in your hand, every church member, read James and First Peter and Second Peter also, and bow your knees before our Lord Jesus Christ and intercede individually for the converting influence of the Holy Spirit to come to you. The first chapter of Second Peter, from the first verse of the chapter to the close, is especially for us as a people. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 3)
Let all those who claim to be ministers of the gospel, for the benefit of their own souls, search deep and make clean work for eternity, for there are dangers at this time that will follow the ministers of the gospel. Dangers often come in from the different sources, especially from unsanctified, unconverted wives. I appeal to every minister of the gospel to labor for your unsanctified, unconverted companions. Zeal in this direction is much needed, and also zeal in this direction in the churches. (Chapter 3) speaks forth a message of great importance. Ministers and the wives of our ministers need a message which I bring to you in the name of the Lord. Unless the convicting, converting power of the gospel shall search the hearts of the ministers and their families, there will be an irreligious element in their homes. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 4)
Read the First Epistle General of John. On your knees read (chapter 2), verses 18, 19. “Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.” (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 5)
Now comes the Word to the truly sanctified souls, every soul in the family that is living the Word of God. They will be educated, taught of God. “But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.” Verses 20, 21. All who are transferred from this world to the highest grade of education above will have learned their lessons not from human, unsanctified teachers who refuse to accept the higher education—which is obedience to all of God’s commandments, but from the highest, grandest court, from God’s law, pronounced in awful grandeur from Sinai’s Mount. Read Exodus 19 and 20. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 6)
Now this is the highest education that can be given to man. “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day He rested, and was refreshed. And He gave unto Moses when He had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” Exodus 31:12-18. Can there be education coming from a higher source than the voice of God, as given in these verses? Read Revelation chapters 3 and 5. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 7)
Now I am charged of the Lord God of Israel. We wish to say to all our people, I have a message for you all. Our work is laid out before us in Revelation 14, verse 6. This is our work. Study the Word. The end of all things is at hand. If Satan can confuse minds, he will invent every species of deception. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 8)
Let all our people avoid the deceptions that will come in messages from men. There will be some who will take up with anything they choose in their deceptive theories to give to the people. “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 9)
“And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: ... Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead 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 14:6-13. (25LtMs, Lt 164, 1910, 10)
Lt 165, 1910
Paul C. Mason, Accountant
NP
March 17, 1910
Previously unpublished.
Paul C. Mason
Dear Brother:
I desire some gifts made, and changes in the wages of my helpers. You will accordingly note the following instructions: (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 1)
D. E. ROBINSON: I have given him the tract of land just west of the land of the Sanitarium Food Co., extending to the ditch between this tract and the prune orchard. It is bounded on the north and east by our private driveways, on the south by the county road around Glass Mountain, and on the west by ditch mentioned above. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 2)
Please give Dores a contract for a deed to this land, and as soon as it can be surveyed, draw up deed for him. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 3)
Pass credit to the account of D. E. Robinson on the books for two hundred (200) dollars, and charge to my personal account. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 4)
For all work done for me after January 1, 1910, by D .E. Robinson, pay him at the rate of fourteen (14) dollars a week. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 5)
IRAM JAMES: On and after January 1, 1910, credit Brother James’ time at the rate of fourteen (14) dollars and forty (40) cents per week. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 6)
Credit Brother James’ account two hundred (200) dollars and charge to my personal account. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 7)
CLARENCE C. CRISLER: Credit Brother Crisler’s account two hundred (200) dollars, and charge to my personal account. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 8)
WILFRED WORKMAN: Credit Brother Workman’s account two hundred (200) dollars and charge to my personal account. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 9)
HELEN GRAHAM: On and after January 1, 1910, pay Miss Graham at the rate of twenty (20) cents per hour. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 10)
Sincerely yours. (25LtMs, Lt 165, 1910, 11)